Your Guide to America's 250th Events & Activities in Fairfax County, VA

• Commemorate America's Semiquincentennial in one of the most historically significant places in the nation with the exclusive America 250: Fairfax County History Passport. This complimentary digital passport directs you to curated experiences at iconic locations, from the hallowed grounds of George Washington’s Mount Vernon to the powerful, modern narratives at the National Museum of the U.S. Army. Check in at our participating venues and you'll be automatically entered to win monthly prizes commemorating America's 250th Anniversary. Secure your free pass now and begin charting your authentic American journey through Fairfax County!

• Virginia’s 250 Passport is now available for free at seven signature sites and 12 welcome centers across the Commonwealth of Virginia, including at Fairfax County’s own George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Guests can collect stamps while exploring historic sites across the state and enjoy 15% off at participating locations and be entered to win prizes. Fairfax County sites include Mount Vernon, George Mason’s Gunston Hall, the National Museum of the U.S. Army, and Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House, among other nearby sites.
   
• Celebrate America's 250th Anniversary with the Fairfax County Park Authority by exploring the grounds of several historic sites, nature parks and trails, and learning about the stories that shaped our nation. The Park Authority will be launching a special Discovery Trail Map centered around America's 250th - which allows you to collect stamps at parks across the county, earn prizes, and connect with the places where history and the future meet. Coming summer 2026!

At the forefront of Fairfax County's America's 250th Anniversary Commemorations is George Washington's Mount Vernon, where, in 2026, visitors will enjoy revitalized mansion tours and a brand-new museum exhibition, "George Washington: A Revolutionary Life." Guests can also explore the new "Lives Bound Together: Slavery at Mount Vernon" exhibit, the interactive Patriots Path: Revolutionary War Encampment, and a renovated food court pavilion. Mount Vernon is also a signature stop for the VA250 Passport, which offers discounts at varying attractions throughout the Commonwealth during 2026. Plus, The Shops at Mount Vernon will be carrying 250th-branded souvenirs and gifts, as well as limited edition bottles of whiskey to commemorate the 250th. Also, don’t forget to stop by the Selfie Station at the Ford Orientation Center upon arrival at Mount Vernon.

In addition to Mount Vernon, don’t miss these special exhibits and events at key historic sites in Fairfax County:

• The National Museum of the United States Army has launched a powerful new exhibit curated specifically for both the Army’s and America’s 250th birthdays. The exhibit, called CALL TO Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War, features more than 280 artifacts and more than 5,000 sq. ft. of stories. In 2026, new artifacts will join the collection.
   
• Additionally, the Army Historical Foundation is partnering with the Museum of the American Revolution to bring "The First Oval Office Project," the MAR's reproduction of George Washington’s Revolutionary War marquee tent, to the museum from April 29-30, 2026, which will include costumed interpreters.
   
• George Mason’s Gunston Hall will celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Virginia Declaration of Rights with a special weekend event from June 12-14, 2026.

• On February 15, 2026 at 3pm, Reston Community Center will host An Evening with Lara Downes and Judy Collins at The Leila Gordon Theatre to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary. “This Land” will feature an inspiring evening of music and conversation, exploring the diverse voices and stories that shaped the nation. Lara Downes will also preview “Life” ahead of its July 1 premiere at Lincoln Center.
   
• On April 11, the Hylton Performing Arts Center, a sister venue of George Mason University’s Center for the Arts, will be hosting a special American Festival Pops Orchestra event celebrating America’s 250^th. Artistic Director Peter Wilson will join the AFPO for a journey through the American experience with musical classic of the concert stage and screen by great American composers, such as Gershwin, Copland, Sousa, and John Williams. Tickets are offered free for veterans and servicemembers.
   
• In recognition of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of the United States, Tephra ICA presents “Evolving Craft at 250,” a special program recognizing contemporary artists producing fine art and fine craft in the legacy of American craft traditions. Artists who are selected will be featured during the Tephra ICA Fine Arts Festival on May 16-17, 2026, the 35th Anniversary of this beloved festival.
   
• The Workhouse Arts Center will host one of the largest Fourth of July celebrations in Northern Virginia with its 2026 Fireworks & Family Festival on Saturday, June 27 to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary.

• The Winery at Bull Run and Paradise Springs Winery, Fairfax County’s two vineyards and the two closest to Washington, DC, will unveil commemorative 250th wines. Paradise Springs will be bottling a signature red and The Winery at Bull Run will be bottling a signature white, available for release in spring 2026.
   
• Fairfax County Breweries will also be working to launch specialty America’s 250th beers throughout the year.
   
• River Sea Chocolates will celebrate the great sea-spanning nation of America with a limited edition “America’s 250th” chocolate bar, made from US-grown cacao beans and using wind-powered, carbon-neutral ingredients brought to Fairfax County via sail cargo.

• Fairfax County Libraries are launching a year-long celebration in honor of the country’s founding. Find monthly themes, special events, and engaging activities for all ages here.
   
• The Town of Vienna is hosting a series of virtual discussions on Ken Burns’ latest documentary, “The American Revolution.” Find the schedule here and keep tabs on Vienna250’s efforts for more upcoming events.

• Sail 250 Virginia: In the summer of 2026, guests can watch a fleet of the world’s most magnificent international tall ships and military ships as they sail throughout Virginia’s coastal cities. This statewide, multi-site celebration showcases Virginia’s role as a maritime gateway to the world. The ships will also be hosted in nearby Old Town Alexandria on June 12-14, 2026. More info here.
   
• Virginia Mobile Museum: Be on the lookout for more stops throughout the state from the “museum on wheels,” the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience. Follow the schedule here.
   
• National Mall Special Events: In nearby Washington, DC, keep tabs on some of the special events and programs taking place throughout the year, from a Freedom 250 Trail to the annual Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration.
   
• National Archives: The National Archives in nearby Washington, DC has launched an ongoing exhibition series called "Opening the Vault," which allows guests to get up close and personal with some of the nation's most historic treasures, including founding documents. Learn more and find other programs at the Archives here.