Yorktown Victory Celebration
October 19 @ 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Celebrate America’s momentous 1781 Revolutionary War victory at Yorktown with artillery firings, exhibits and interpretive programs examining the significance of the American and French alliance at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
A special emphasis this year is the 200th anniversary of the French Marquis de Lafayette’s return to America in 1824, following the American Revolution.
Stories of citizens and soldiers unfold daily through immersive films, exhibition galleries and interpretive programs in outdoor re-creations of a Continental Army encampment and Revolution-era farm.
Visitors to the Continental Army encampment will discover aspects of military life, from enlistment to troop supplies and flintlock muskets to 18th-century medical care. Throughout the day, visitors can discover military tactics on land and at sea with a look at the Battle of the Capes, one of the most significant naval battles in American history. Artillery demonstrations, showcasing the varied roles of the artillery crew, will take place in the outdoor amphitheater at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., followed by the crew firing a salute in honor of the victory at Yorktown.
Farm visitors can learn about typical life of a Revolution-era farming family. Special demonstrations from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. will explore 18th-century foodways and the convergence of cultures through food at the farm kitchen and enslaved people’s quarters.
The official Yorktown Day Parade will begin at 10:30 a.m. Included in the 35 parade units are representatives of all branches of the U.S. military, fife and drum corps – including The U.S. Army Old Guard Fife & Drum Corps – JROTC and NJROTC units, and patriotic organizations. Learn more
On Yorktown Day on October 19, the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown offers free admission to active duty, reserve and retired military personnel and up to three direct family members with military identification.
FREE admission for residents of James City County, York County and the City of Williamsburg, including William & Mary students, with proof of residency.
