Spring is just around the corner and these warmer temperatures mean Yorktown will soon come alive with living history demonstrations, the return of its award-winning farmers market, and pirates looking for treasure! All events take place outdoors and follow strict COVID-19 safety precautions.
April 10
Yorktown Market Days kicks off its regular season with weekly farmers markets on Saturdays. Enjoy spectacular views of the York River, live music, food trucks and a fantastic variety of vendors and artists at Riverwalk Landing. The Go Green Market, in recognition of the month’s Earth Day Celebrations, runs 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. In collaboration with York County’s Department of Public Works and the York County Beautification Committee, there will be free family activities and educational exhibits to help promote environmental sustainability. A limited supply of reusable shopping bags will be handed out as giveaways. All shoppers are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags for stocking up on market goods. The Fifes and Drums perform at 9 a.m. followed by live entertainment from SOJORN. Call (757) 890-5900 for more information.
York County History Day: History comes alive with tactical demonstrations, encampments and tours throughout Historic Yorktown—taking place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Special activities will occur at the Watermen’s Museum, York Hall, and various buildings along Main Street.
Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters will hold two ticketed Civil War Walking Tours, both led by Historian J. Michael Moore. One begins at 1 p.m. and another at 2 p.m. The first takes a look at Yorktown’s role during the Civil War era by exploring the Peninsula Campaign of 1862, which pitted two colorful commanders against each other over a Revolutionary War battlefield—deploying such modern technologies as aerial observation and improvised explosive devices. During the second walking tour, visitors will journey back to learn about Union operations against Richmond and Confederate naval raiders, find inspiration from stories of African Americans who sought freedom, and view Civil War photographs that captured a glimpse into the past. Call (757) 872-3020 for more information.
The Watermen’s Museum Chili Cook-Off and biggest annual fundraiser kicks off at noon. Guests can sample competing chefs’ chili recipes and vote for the People’s Choice award. Additional chili may be purchased, if available. Call for competition rules, forms to enter, and to purchase tickets. (757) 887-2641
April 17
Sister Cities French Market: Modeled after the market in Yorktown’s sister city Port-Vendres, France, shop for French favorites from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Riverwalk Landing. Shoppers will find fresh-baked bread, croissants and pastries; chocolates & macarons; wine; soaps and more! Enjoy a Wine Garden featuring French wines, a silent auction, and student exchange raffle. Call (757) 877-2933 for more information.
April 21
Color and beauty will be in full bloom when the Garden Club of Virginia brings its Historic Garden Week to Yorktown. There are three ticketed tours: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., 12 to 2 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. The event headquarters and stunning landscape setups will be inside the Freight Shed, located at the waterfront. York County Master Gardeners will provide a special gardening talk at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Admission is waived for all guests on tour that day. Admission is also complimentary to the Watermen’s Museum as part of this event. Details at www.visityorktown.org
April 24 & 25
Pirates Invade Yorktown: Step back into the Golden Age of Piracy as Riverwalk Landing and the Watermen’s Museum are invaded by seafaring marauders from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Explore a pirate encampment, view live blacksmith demonstrations, sing along with sea shanties, and don’t miss exciting cannon demonstrations. On Saturday, April 24 – the weekly farmers market will also take on a pirate theme and runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
First Weekend in May
Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival: Sample dozens of craft beers, dig into some amazing BBQ, and listen as some of the best blues musicians in Hampton Roads take the stage at Riverwalk Landing on May 1, including Bobby Blackhat Band; Cole and MaryAnn Delta Blues; On the Verge; and Fade to Blue. This year, to maintain social distancing and to follow state capacity guidelines, there will be two time slots available with a limited number of tickets for each. Call (757) 877-2933 for more information or visit www.villageevents.org
Art at the River Juried Art Show: Marvel at the work of local artists with the beautiful York River as the backdrop on May 2 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Painters, photographers, potters, jewelers, and other creative artists will line the Riverwalk to display their work with hopes of taking home the People’s Choice Award. Call (757) 898-6147 for more information.
