Families partake in various activities during the Yorktown Independence Celebration.
Yorktown is set to celebrate the 249th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a full day of events at the American Revolution Museum. Attendees can enjoy artillery demonstrations, historical discussions, a hot dog eating contest, and a grand fireworks finale. The festivities will also include free shuttle services and food vendors to enhance the experience. Admission fees apply, but local residents can enter for free. The celebration serves as a kickoff for a year-long countdown to the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026.
Yorktown will celebrate the 249th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 2025, with a full day of activities at the American Revolution Museum. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and kicks off a one-year countdown to the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.
Highlights of the Liberty Celebration include artillery firings at the Continental Army encampment, scheduled for 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., contingent on weather conditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the museum’s gallery exhibit that narrates the significant stories behind the Declaration of Independence and those who signed it.
The festival will feature a variety of interpretive programs, including artillery demonstrations, discussions on the difficulties faced by America’s founders during the American Revolution, and living-history interpretations that showcase the daily lives of 18th-century soldiers. These demonstrations will encompass musket and artillery firing, medical practices, and supply management.
Additionally, attendees can participate in unique activities, including a hot dog eating contest at Riverwalk Landing set for 1 p.m., alongside acoustic guitar performances and engaging games for children. Festival food options will enhance the celebratory atmosphere.
Admission for the event is $20 for adults, $10 for youth aged 6 to 12, while children 5 and under can enter for free. There is also a combination ticket available for those visiting both the American Revolution Museum and Jamestown Settlement for $34 for adults and $17 for youth aged 6 to 12. York County, James City County, and Williamsburg residents, including William & Mary students, can gain complimentary admission with proof of residency.
The Yorktown Trolley will offer free shuttle service to Historic Yorktown from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., encouraging visitors to take advantage of the transportation option. It is important to note that several roads will be closed in the historic area for the duration of the event, and designated central parking will be available at the Yorktown Battlefield between 4 p.m. and 8:30 p.m.
The festivities will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display beginning at 9:15 p.m., which will be visible from both the waterfront and Main Street. Pedestrian access will be allowed in the Yorktown Beach Picnic Area; however, it will be closed to vehicles during the celebrations. On the same day, maintenance work will close the Colonial Parkway leading into Yorktown, so visitors should plan accordingly.
In light of public safety, alcoholic beverages will be prohibited at the event. Attendees can enjoy meals at various restaurants and vendor stalls available throughout the celebration. Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and arrive early due to anticipated high attendance and limited parking options.
For more information regarding the Liberty Celebration and the planned activities, attendees can visit the official website of the American Revolution Museum for details.
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