This is the year to visit revolutionary Richmond

This year, you’re invited to experience a destination where revolutionary ideas aren’t just a part of history – they’re a part of the everyday. This balance of heritage and modern momentum is hard to come by, so make the most of it. In 2026, the United States marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. In celebration of this, the Richmond Region in Virginia is putting on a powerful line-up of exhibitions, events and performances like never before.

St John’s Church
The Richmond region couldn’t be more central to America’s story. It’s here that Patrick Henry’s ‘Give me liberty or give me death!’ speech sparked the fight for independence and, to this day, the historic St John’s Church continues its legacy with iconic ‘Liberty or Death’ reenactments on summer Sundays.

Scotchtown
Scotchtown, Patrick Henry’s surviving home, is set to host the Governor Celebration on 19 September 2026, underscoring its importance in the country’s political landscape. Designed by Thomas Jefferson in 1785, the Virginia State Capitol is another must-hit on your historical bucket list.

Henricus Historical Park
In Chesterfield County, Henricus Historical Park brings 1611 back to life at the site of the second successful English settlement, where early foundations of American society were formed along the James River. Pocahontas, the daughter of native American, Wahunsenacawh (Chief Powhatan), spent significant time at the settlement after being captured by the English.

Richmond Sailfest
On top of these strong historical ties, Richmond has a lot of life to give too. Richmond Sailfest, from 12–14 June, welcomes international ships to the James River for a free, festival-style weekend of performances.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
The iconic Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is showcasing new exhibitions on the American Revolution and George Washington. It’s free, open 365 days a year – and is home to more than 50,000 works of American art.

The Branch Museum of Design
The Branch Museum of Design presents Americana, opening 2 July, exploring the symbols and stories that have shaped American identity – giving you a close-up of Richmond’s revolutionary culture today.

Jackson Ward
Richmond’s legacy of Black business excellence, rooted in the Jackson Ward neighbourhood, remains a defining force with an ever-evolving food scene, vibrant street art and landmarks like the newly open Skipwith-Roper Cottage. Black chefs in the region continue to gain national recognition including Leah Branch of The Roosevelt, a recent James Beard Award nominee.

Scott’s Addition
Reinvention is also visible at the neighbourhood level. Once an industrial district, Scott’s Addition has since transformed into one of the region’s most dynamic areas, known for its mix of breweries, restaurants, creative businesses and residential development.

CarMaxPark
CarMax Park, the new home of Minor League Baseball’s Richmond Flying Squirrels, opens 7 April. Anchoring a new era of baseball and entertainment in the Diamond District, you’ll want to catch a game and enjoy a wide range of family-friendly amenities and experiences.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will also unveil its reimagined Conservatory this spring, doubling the iconic domed structure in size, adding four distinct climate zones and introducing a permanent butterfly exhibit.

Kings Dominion
Last but by no means least, Rapterra, the world’s tallest and longest launched wing coaster, was introduced at Kings Dominion amusement park last year – further illustrating how revolutionary engineering and design continue to emerge in the Richmond region.

· St John’s Church – Richmond

· Scotchtown – Hanover

· Virginia State Capitol – Richmond

· Henricus Historical Park – Chesterfield

· Richmond Sailfest – Richmond

· Virginia Museum of Fine Arts – Richmond

· Branch Museum of Design – Richmond

· Jackson Ward – Richmond

· Scott’s Addition – Richmond

· Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden – Henrico

· CarMax Park – Richmond

· Kings Dominion – Hanover