News Summary
Yorktown is preparing for a summer of festivities in honor of the 20th anniversary of Riverwalk Landing, featuring a five-day celebration packed with events from May to August. Highlights include the Sounds of Summer concert series, a July 4 beach celebration, and the return of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. Other activities include the Yorktown Workboat Races and a Liberty Celebration at the American Revolution Museum. With a range of dining options and free community events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Yorktown is gearing up for an exciting summer filled with festivities as it celebrates the 20th anniversary of Riverwalk Landing, a beloved shopping and dining venue that opened its doors in 2005. The town has organized a five-day celebration packed with lively events designed for families and visitors of all ages, running from May to August.
The 20th Anniversary celebrations will kick off with the Sounds of Summer concert series starting on May 22 and continuing until August 14, excluding July 3. Held every Thursday from 6:30 to 9 p.m. by the scenic York River, the concert series will feature regional bands playing a variety of genres including rock, R&B, beach music, ’80s hits, country, and jazz. This year introduces four new bands, namely the Tiki Bar Band, En’Novation, Tidewater Drive Band, and Bon Journey, to the lineup.
In addition to the concerts, Yorktown will host a special July 4 beach celebration from 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. This all-day event will include live music leading up to a patriotic concert at night, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. Another highlight of the summer will be the Virginia Symphony Orchestra performing at Riverwalk Landing on August 30 at 7:30 p.m.
Additional summer activities include the Yorktown Workboat Races on June 1, which will run from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This event celebrates the significance of workboats in Virginia’s maritime history and features racing for small, medium, and large vessels. A model boat show will also take place during the event.
For maritime enthusiasts, the full-scale replica of the Swedish warship, Kalmar Nyckel, is set to return to Riverwalk Landing in 2025, allowing patrons the opportunity for day sails. Meanwhile, the Schooner Alliance II will offer day and evening sails through October for those looking to explore the waters.
The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown will also contribute to the summer festivities with its own Liberty Celebration on July 4, featuring engaging interpretive programs and artillery demonstrations. For history buffs, guided walking tours of the Yorktown Battlefield will provide insightful perspectives on crucial historical sites.
This summer, visitors can enjoy a complimentary, air-conditioned, wheelchair-accessible Trolley service navigating between significant attractions in Yorktown. Additionally, those seeking spine-chilling tales can participate in Yorktown Ghost Walks, which offer nighttime tours filled with local history and ghost stories.
The Watermen’s Museum will showcase the essential role of Chesapeake Bay watermen through its exhibits, while aquatic adventures will be available through rental options like paddleboards or kayaks. Families can also participate in kid-friendly activities like Pirate Adventure Cruises.
Yorktown Market Days will bring local culture to the forefront every Saturday, featuring various vendors and themed markets. Noteworthy events are also planned for July 12 in support of National Farmers Market Week. Art enthusiasts can appreciate local talent at the Gallery at York Hall, which will host rotating displays of artwork throughout the summer.
The dining options in Yorktown are diverse, with local favorites such as Mobjack Coffee Roasters & Petite Café, Water Street Grille, Umi Sushi, and Ben & Jerry’s. Visitors can also enjoy fishing without a license at the public Fishing Pier or unwind on a two-acre beach.
Moreover, Historic Yorktown plans an array of outdoor concerts, festivals, and reenactments throughout the summer and fall. Most events are free to attend, ensuring that all community members and visitors can partake in the vibrant atmosphere.
For additional information on summer events and activities in Yorktown, individuals can visit the official event website or contact local tourism authorities.
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Additional Resources
- Yorktown Sounds Summer Concerts
- Summer Festivals and Fairs for DC Families
- Best Things to Do in Yorktown
- Historic Yorktown Announces 2025 Events
- Summer Events in Virginia 2025
- Wikipedia: Yorktown, Virginia
- Google Search: Yorktown events 2025
- Google Scholar: Yorktown Virginia summer events
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Yorktown, Virginia
- Google News: Yorktown summer events
