The Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) and the City of Richmond have partnered for “Richmond SailFest,” a free, family-friendly festival June 12-14, 2026. The event at Dock Street Park and Intermediate Terminal in Richmond is part of the VMHC’s multiyear commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary. Saturday night, over the James River, Central Virginia’s premier 250th fireworks display, complete with 250 drones and set to music, will cap off a weekend of tall ship tours, live music, cultural performances, history experiences, and waterfront festivities.
“We care about history and want to share it with as many people as possible, so the VMHC is constantly thinking about how we can engage Virginians in new ways,” said the VMHC Vice President for Education & Engagement Michael Plumb. “The 2022 renovation of our home on Arthur Ashe Boulevard made it more inviting to come to us, and new events like Richmond SailFest expand that commitment to our mission by meeting people where they are.”
Serving as a Sail Virginia℠ 2026 Affiliate Harbor, Richmond SailFest is the most accessible location for the majority of the state. Three tall ships — Oosterschelde, Pride of Baltimore II, and Virginia — will travel up the James River and anchor in Richmond for the major, weekend-long celebration.
Three Fun-filled Days of History, Music, and More
The festival will also feature exhibitions and interactive offerings including the VMHC’s traveling exhibitions “Give Me Liberty” and “We The People,” the VMFA on the Road Artmobile, live printing from Studio Two Three, living history displays, and the “Riding the Fall Line” exhibit featuring the historic boats of the James River.
“The Virginia Museum of History & Culture’s deep understanding of our city, and their track record for creating memorable experiences, made them the ideal partner for this community festival,” said Richmond Mayor Danny Avula. “Together, we’re creating a once-in-a-generation weekend that brings together families, invites people to engage with the full story of our city, and creates lasting memories for Richmonders and visitors alike.”
An opening ceremony kicks off the event at 11 a.m. on Friday, June 12, with ship access and entertainment continuing through 6 p.m. Performances across the weekend include Virginia icons Plunky & Oneness, Garden Variety String Band, Bio Ritmo, the Richmond Symphony, No BS! Brass, and the U.S. Fleet Forces Band.
Reserving free ship tour tickets in advance is recommended, but not required. Tickets can be reserved starting May 16 at virginiahistory.org/sailfest. Additional and up-to-date information on ship tour tickets, schedule updates, parking details, and event FAQs is available on the website.
Dates and Times:
Friday, June 12, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, June 13, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 14, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Full Schedule:
Friday, June 12
- 11:00 a.m.-Noon – Opening Ceremony
- 11:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. – Ship access
- Noon-1 p.m. – Live Performance: Rappahannock Whalers (1800s sea shanties)
- 1:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. / 3:30-5 p.m. – Live Music: Plunky & Oneness
- 5:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. – Live Performance: Heart of Ireland (Irish dance)
Saturday, June 13
- 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. – Ship access
- 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. – Live Music: Garden Variety String Band
- 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m. – Live Performance: Nathan Elliott (Native American flute)
- 1:30 p.m.-3:00 p.m. – Live Music: Bio Ritmo
- 3:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m. – Live Performance: Swingers Jump Rope Team
- 4:00 p.m.-5:30 p.m. – Live Music: Justin Golden & The Devil’s Coattails
- 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. – Live Performance: Ezibu Muntu (West African dance)
- 6:30 p.m.-8:00 p.m. – Live Music: Richmond Symphony
- 9:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m. – Fireworks, drones, and a music experience over the James River
Sunday, June 14
- 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. – Ship access
- 11:00 a.m.-Noon – River City Taiko (Japanese drums)
- Noon-2:00 p.m. – Live Music: No BS! Brass
- 2:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. – Live Performance: Mile of Music (Richmond Symphony)
- 2:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m. – Live Music: U.S. Fleet Forces Band
Location:
The event spans across the connected Dock Street Park (3021 Dock Street) and Intermediate Terminal (3101 Wharf Street). Fireworks will be launched across the river at Ancarrow’s Landing (1200 Brander Street) without public access.
About the Virginia Museum of History & Culture
Founded in 1831 as the Virginia Historical Society, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, a private, non-profit organization, is the oldest museum and cultural organization in Virginia and one of the oldest and most distinguished history organizations in the United States. The museum cares for a renowned collection of more than nine million items representing the far-reaching story of Virginia.
