News Release
Visit Yorktown
News Release Date: August 28, 2026
Colonial National Historical Park Invites the Public to “Yorktown 1781: Before the Siege” Living History Event
YORKTOWN, Va. — Travel back in time and experience Yorktown 1781: Before the Siege — a dynamic living history weekend that transforms Yorktown’s Historic Main Street into a bustling British occupied town on Sept. 12 and 13.
“The weekend offers a unique chance to step directly into Yorktown’s past,” said Colonial National Historical Park Superintendent Jerri Marr. “This program is one of many special events leading us toward the 250th anniversary of the Surrender at Yorktown in 2031 —each designed to deepen connections to the extraordinary stories preserved here.”
This immersive event brings to life the tense weeks leading up to the Siege of Yorktown, offering visitors a close look at daily routines, military preparations, and personal stories from soldiers and residents, who navigated the uncertainty of the American Revolution’s final major engagement.
From 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. each day, park rangers and living history volunteers will present a variety of programs and activities, including historic weapons demonstrations, military drills, camp life interpretation, and more.
A detailed schedule of programs and locations is available at: https://www.nps.gov/colo/planyourvisit/calendar.htm
Colonial National Historical Park extends its appreciation to the gateway community partners helping to make this event possible.
About Colonial National Historical Park Established in 1930, Colonial National Historical Park preserves and interprets sites and stories fundamental to the founding of the United States and the roots of its national identity. The park encompasses Historic Jamestown, site of the first permanent English settlement in North America, and Yorktown Battlefield, where American forces and their allies achieved victory in the last major battle of the Revolutionary War. These significant landmarks are linked by the 23-mile Colonial Parkway, designated as an “All-American Road” for its scenic and historical value. Learn more at www.nps.gov/colo.
About the National Park Service. Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at www.nps.gov.
Last updated: August 28, 2026