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

• Find 8+ special America's 250th Hotel Packages throughout Fairfax County here

• 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. The passport is now available - get more info here.
   
• The 2026 Fairfax County Visitors Guide is your go-to resource for planning an unforgettable trip during America’s 250th anniversary celebration year, as it features “250 Reasons to Visit Fairfax County,” from iconic historic sites and family-friendly attractions to culinary gems, outdoor adventures, shopping, arts, and more. Visitors can order a free print copy online, download the digital edition, or pick one up at local hotels, visitor centers, attractions, and partner locations throughout the county.

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" (opening mid-June!). 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.

Key events to bookmark at George Washington's home this summer include:

• June 11: Grand opening of "George Washington: A Revolutionary Life" exhibit
• June 19-20: Freedom Before Emancipation: Family Day for Juneteenth
• July 3-4: Independence Day Fireworks 
• July 4: An American Celebration

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

• 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 National Museum of the U.S. Army from April 29-30, 2026, which will include costumed interpreters.
   
• 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.
   
• The Army Museum has also just unveiled another brand new augmented reality exhibit called “American Revolution: The Augmented Exhibition.” This interactive exhibit allows visitors to immerse themselves in the defining moments of the Revolutionary War through innovative technology.
   
• Keep tabs for even more events at the Army Museum throughout the summer here.
   
• 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. Guests can commemorate the anniversary of the Virginia Declaration of Rights with a special naturalization ceremony on the lawn, followed by refreshments and mansion tours.

• 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.
   
• Wolf Trap is celebrating America250 with a special series of performances throughout the summer, celebrating the music, stories, and cultural traditions that have shaped the nation over the last 250 years. From patriotic performances by “The President’s Own” U.S. Marine Band and fireworks on Memorial Day weekend to orchestral tributes like “American Mosaic” and performances spanning Broadway, jazz, folk, rock, and Americana, the series blends nationally significant storytelling with world-class entertainment in one of the country’s most unique outdoor venues.
   
• Fairfax County 250th Commission is partnering with NOVA-LUG (Northern Virginia LEGO User Group) to create a public LEGO display that spotlights places, history, and everyday experiences from across the county’s nine districts in honor of the 250th anniversary. The installation will run from end of June through January 2027 at Tysons Corner Center in a location near the LEGO Store and will be refreshed monthly.
   
• 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, have partnered with the Fairfax County 250th Commission to release commemorative 250th wines. Paradise Springs has bottled a signature red called “250” and The Winery at Bull Run has bottled a signature white, called “Independence.” The wines are limited-edition and available while supplies last.
   
• Seven of the Fairfax County Breweries have collaborated on an exclusive America’s 250th beer in partnership with the Fairfax County 250th Commission. The limited-edition Hazy IPA called “FAIRFAX 250” was released at the Fairfax County Brewfest on June 13 and is now available (while supplies last) at participating taprooms. 
   
• Adding to the excitement, George Washington’s Mount Vernon will debut a series of limited-edition whiskey releases in 2026 as part of America’s 250th celebration. Highlights include the inaugural Washington’s Generals Series, a Premium Rye Whiskey featuring collectible label art; Washington’s Bourbon Whiskey, the first bourbon produced at Mount Vernon since Washington’s time; and the ultra-limited Spirit of ’76 Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey, expected to debut around July 4 with only 120–170 bottles available. Additional small-batch releases are planned throughout the year, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience Mount Vernon’s historic distilling legacy in a new way.
   
• River Sea Chocolates has unveiled a special dark milk chocolate bar, reimagined through an old-town colonial-era spice blend inspired by global trade routes of the 18th century. Infused with cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, orange peel, French vanilla, cayenne pepper, and star anise, this bar celebrates the great sea-spanning nation of America. Available now while supplies last.
   
• SEVEN Restaurant, located at the AC Marriott & Residence Inn Reston complex, is celebrating the birthday wtih a "Red, White, and Brew" promotion - offering 50% off every American beer and wine on the menu. Plus, upstairs at the SYN Rooftop Bar & Lounge, grab discounted, flag-themed cocktail towers on July 4 to keep the energy high, including the SYN Spritz (red), the Twisted Pina Colada (white), and the Peach Berry (blue). Plus, dance the night away with DJ Jsun from 7:30-11:30pm.
   
• Davio's Northern Italian Steakhouse in Reston is offering a selection of cocktails based on what Americans drank 250 years ago, from the rum-based The Flip to the brandy-based Brandy Punch to an old-fashioned-inspired Early American Cocktail. 
   
• Sorrento Grill in Herndon has put together a special America's 250th Anniversary Celebration menu that highlights its Mediterranean-inspired signature dishes. 
   
• Jake's Gourmet Popcorn in Falls Church has created a 250th-anniversary popcorn flavor, available in patriotic-themed tins. You can also grab individual bags of red, white, and blue popcorn and make your own mix to celebrate this milestone anniversary.
   
• Wildfire Restaurant in Tysons is offering three-course dinner menus in honor of America's big birthday, as well as a special business lunch combo. 
   
• The Naisho Room, the new speakeasy-style cocktail lounge at The Watermark Hotel in Tysons, has an exclusive Omakase Experience queued up to celebrate America's 250th Birthday. For a limited time, indulge in their signature Omakase experience for $250 per guest, inclusive of your choice of a Signature Wine or Sake Pairing for a savings of up to $75. This indulgent, multi-course experience is thoughtfully crafted by Executive Sushi Chef Hobin Kim, showcasing a refined progression of small bites, artfully composed hot and cold dishes, and exceptional sushi and sashimi. Featuring a selection of premium seafood sourced directly from Tokyo’s renowned Toyosu Fish Market and meticulously aged to enhance depth and flavor, each course embodies a harmonious balance of tradition, innovation, and precision. The result is an intimate and unforgettable dining experience designed to delight every sense. Available exclusively Wednesday, July 1 through Saturday, July 4. Seating is extremely limited, with only a select number of guests accommodated per service.
   
• Perch Putt, located on the 11th floor Skypark at Capital One Center, is offering specialty food and beverage offerings and DJs performing throughout the Fourth of July weekend. If you need a place to stay after enjoying the mini golf and Omakase, don't miss The Watermark Hotel's Stars, Stripes & Summer Stay hotel package.
   
• Silver Diner Restaurants have rolled out a special Star Spangled Explosion Dessert promotion, available through September 30, as well as a seasonal summer menu selection that includes delicious entrees like Lobster Rolls, Tuna Poke Bowls, and Beet Salad appetizers.
   
• Purple Onion Catering, based in Vienna, is celebrating 250 years with a special offer for your next event booking. Mention code USA250ONION in your initial event inquiry for a complimentary DC cherry blossom-inspired dessert to all new events booked by July 31. 
   
• Tatte Bakery is honoring 250 years of American history with a limited-edition dessert assortment that features 12 of the bakery's individual cheesecakes adorned in red, white, and blue. Available through September 7.

• 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.
   
• The Children's Science Center Lab, located at the Fair Oaks Mall, is offering $2.50 off admission for online ticket purchases during July. 

• 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.