On Sunday, October 20th at 1 p.m. the Williamsburg community gathers in the heart of the Historic Area to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier de Lafayette’s triumphant return visit to the former colonial capital city. From August 1824 to September 1825, as the last significant surviving general of the American Revolution, the Marquis visited all 24 states of the Union at the invitation of President James Monroe and received the enthusiastic gratitude of the nation. A celebratory carriage procession and ceremony on the steps of the Colonial Courthouse will salute the “Nation’s Guest” with tributes from the 18th, 19th, and 21st centuries to include the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums, Nation Builders, community leaders, the Walsingham Academy Madrigals, and cannon salute by the Virginia State Garrison Regiment.
Other Experiences
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Presentation: Finding Jane Vobe
A sneak peek behind the scenes into the research behind Colonial Williamsburg's newest Nation Builder Jane Vobe.
Art Museums Admission
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Film: Williamsburg – The Story of a Patriot
See the 1957 film, in its vibrant 70mm format, that tells the story of a Virginia planter deciding to join the patriot cause.
Open to the Public
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Special Event: The Crisis of 1798
How must a democracy work if it is to survive? How should citizens disagree? What is a loyal opposition? Explore these questions through America's constitutional crisis in 1798.
Art Museums Admission