From free outdoor concerts to bustling riverfront markets to electrifying holiday celebrations, Williamsburg heats up the scene with enticing summer events. Whether you’re into music, food, fireworks, craft beer, culture, history, or all of the above, you’ll find a full lineup of fun summer happenings in the Historic Triangle.
To see all upcoming events plus major annual festivities and more, check out our Events Calendar.
Enjoy Live Music at Outdoor Concerts
Discover Williamsburg’s impressive lineup of live music this summer. From local cover bands to Grammy-winning artists, music takes the stage most nights. Many events feature craft beer and food trucks, so you can bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a concert under the stars.
Kicking off around Memorial Day weekend, the free Sounds of Summer outdoor concert series brings a mix of musical genres to the Yorktown riverfront on Thursday nights all summer long. At the annual Williamsburg Live music festival, happening June 20-22, 2025, the lineup features The Concert: A Tribute to ABBA, The Band Perry: A Homecoming, and The Beach Boys. Other top spots for summer tunes are the Hopped Up Summer Concert Series at Alewerks Brewing Company and the Merchants Square Concert Series in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg.
Dance at the Governor’s Palace
On Wednesdays and Fridays throughout summer, witness historic dance routines at the regal Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg. Performers in period attire bring 18th-century moves to life by demonstrating minuets, country dances, and more. Learn about these favorite colonial-era dances, and get on your feet to join in the fun! Reserve your tickets.
Relive an Infamous Moment in History
Step into the drama of 1775 as Lord Dunmore, the British governor colonists loved to hate, flees Williamsburg after dissolving the House of Burgesses and launches raids from a British ship in the York River.
The 250th Anniversary of Lord Dunmore’s Virginia Campaign is a special two-day commemoration happening June 7-8 at Yorktown’s Riverwalk Landing. Enjoy action-packed reenactments, live musical performances, deck tours of the majestic tall ship Luna, and even a face-to-face encounter with “Lord Dunmore” himself. This pivotal moment in Virginia’s revolutionary past makes for a memorable weekend of hands-on history and family fun.
Honor & Reflect at the Juneteenth Freedom Fest
Celebrate freedom, resilience, culture, and community at the Juneteenth Freedom Fest on June 14 at Freedom Park, the site of America’s first free Black settlement. This vibrant, family-friendly event bursts with live music, powerful spoken word, dynamic dance performances, and a lively marketplace of artisan vendors and food trucks serving up local flavor.
Come for the joy, stay for the history – and explore even more ways to honor the holiday with Juneteenth events happening all week long.
Indulge in Whiskey & Wine
Raise a glass to flavor and fun at the Williamsburg Whiskey & Wine Weekend, taking place June 27–29 throughout the City of Williamsburg. This three-day celebration features tastings, expert-led classes, distillery tours, and live music across various venues. In addition to ticketed experiences, the weekend includes free events like movie screenings that pair whiskey and wine with cinema. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just curious, this event promises a spirited blend of education and entertainment.
Celebrate the Fourth of July
There are so many ways to celebrate America’s birthday in Williamsburg. Experience the Fourth of July at Colonial Williamsburg with a full day of patriotic festivities, including public readings of the Declaration of Independence, spirited tours, talks with National Builders, musical performances, and a dazzling fireworks display. Or, reconnect with the story of America’s fight for independence at the Liberty Celebration at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown.
Plus, find community parades and fireworks displays in Williamsburg and Yorktown. You can even see fireworks from the roller coasters at Busch Gardens® Williamsburg. Explore all of Williamsburg’s 4th of July events and create unforgettable memories.
Stroll Markets & Art Fests
The 40+ vendors of the Williamsburg Farmers Market offer fresh summer fruits and vegetables plus chocolate, cheese, honey, peanuts, baked goods, handmade soaps, and more. Take a stroll and see what tempts you. The market runs Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., March through December, at Merchants Square in Colonial Williamsburg.
At Yorktown Market Days, the spread also includes glassware, artwork, gourmet baked dog treats, and incredible views of the York River – where picnic blankets are welcome. Visit Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. through September 27.
The 2nd Sunday Arts & Street Festival in downtown Williamsburg features more than 180 artisans, musicians, food trucks, and a beer/beverage garden. Kids can join in the fun with face painting, crafts, and visits with local authors. Come out on the second Sunday of the month, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., March through December.
Experience Yorktown in 1781
The 1781 British Occupation of Yorktown was the last major land battle of the Revolutionary War, leading to the surrender of General Cornwallis. 1781 Yorktown Before the Siege will come to life in Yorktown on September 6 to mark the 244th anniversary of the arrival of the British forces. This free event will take you back to this momentous time with military drills, camp life demonstrations, interpreters, and more.
Get your FREE Cool Summer Savings Pass
This summer from July 1 through August 31, you can unlock exclusive discounts, deals, and local treasures with the Cool Summer Savings Pass. Register online, download the pass, and enjoy savings at local hotels, restaurants, attractions, and more.
Where to Stay
Find your perfect summer stay in Williamsburg, from elegant inns to historic cottages to trusty chain hotels. Check out the Packages & Deals page for details on how to save with hotel discounts and bundles that include free breakfast, museum, attraction, and theme park tickets.
