55 things to do this week

CORRECTION: This article has been updated to correct that the free deck tours of Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware, will be held from 9 am – 12 pm on Thursday, June 15. A previous version incorrectly stated that the tours would be held from 2 – 5 pm that day. -Editor

York River State Park is celebrating Virginia State Parks History & Culture Day this Saturday, June 17 with a variety of special programs, including special exhibits, history walks, a night hike and stargazing. All programs are included with standard park admission.

There will also be a variety of Juneteenth events this week, including ‘A Prelude to Juneteenth’ at Jamestown Settlement on Wednesday, a special event at William & Mary on Friday, York County’s Juneteenth Celebration Saturday and a sunrise service at Colonial Williamsburg Sunday morning. For a list of Juneteenth celebrations happening in Greater Williamsburg this year, visit the Juneteenth Community Consortium website.

Some other highlights this week include the Williamsburg Live summer music festival on the Lawn of the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, day sails and free deck tours aboard Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware in Historic Yorktown; the kickoff of $3 family summer movies at Movie Tavern in Williamsburg and free summer concerts in New Town, Yorktown and Port Warwick. 

There will also be free, outdoor family movies this weekend at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, McReynolds Athletic Complex in Yorktown and Williamsburg Crossing.

Want to submit a future event for consideration? Email me at christin@thetriangle.news.

-Christin

Events This Week

Tuesday, June 13

Special Event

• Free Deck Tour on Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware – 425 Water Street (Yorktown). The public is invited to attend free deck tours of Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware. You’ll discover the remarkable story behind this full-scale replica of a 1638 Swedish merchant ship that founded the Colony of New Sweden in today’s Delaware. Free. 2:00 – 5:00 pm. 

Film

• Art House Café Film Series: “The Outfit” – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). This week’s featured film is The Outfit (2022; R). See a trailer here. 

Wednesday, June 14

Special Event

• A Prelude to Juneteenth – Jamestown Settlement (Williamsburg). Attend a thought-provoking evening of history and performance to commemorate Juneteenth, an American celebration marking the end of slavery in the U.S. The event will feature Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander, Endowed Professor of Virginia Black History and Culture at Norfolk State University, music by Sylvia Tabb Lee & the Rejoicing Singers and dramatic readings from primary sources performed by Dale Heiskill. Free; registration is encouraged. Register online here. 7:00 – 8:30 pm. 

Kids & Families

• Newport News Park Discovery Center – Newport News Park Discovery Center (Newport News). Children are invited to attend this monthly nature story reading. Each month, there will be a new picture storybook about animals and their adventures in nature. Free. 10:00 am. 

Live Music

• Port Warwick Summer Concert Series – William Styron Square (Newport News). This week’s concert will feature a mix of classical, R&B, pop, electronic, folk and soul music by BJ Griffin and the Galaxy Groove. Free. 6:00 – 9:00 pm. 
• New Town Tunes – Sullivan Square in New Town (Williamsburg). The New Town Tunes spring concert series has been extended!  This week’s concert will feature Deloreans – the ultimate 80s tribute band. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from New Town Restaurants, local food trucks & breweries. Follow New Town Williamsburg on Facebook for updates. Free. Gates open at 5:00 pm; show starts at 5:30 pm.

Thursday, June 15

Special Event

• Free Deck Tour on Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware – 425 Water Street (Yorktown). The public is invited to attend free deck tours of Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware. You’ll discover the remarkable story behind this full-scale replica of a 1638 Swedish merchant ship that founded the Colony of New Sweden in today’s Delaware. Free. 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. 

Kids and Families

• Nature Discovery Day – Riverview Farm Park (Newport News). During this family-friendly, nature-themed event, park naturalists will present hands-on materials to engage and delight learners of all ages. 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. 

Crafts

• DIY Craft: Quilting – Art Museums (Colonial Williamsburg). Learn about quilter Arlonzia Pettway and participate in a mini quilting project. Requires Art Museum admission/a Good Neighbor Pass and a $5 event ticket. 10:30 – 11:30 am. 
• Makerspace: Glowforge 101 – Williamsburg Library (Williamsburg). This program introduces the basics of how the Glowforge works. Spots are limited; call to register. For ages 18+. 6:30 – 7:30 pm. 

Film

• Throwback Thursday Film Series: “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). This film series features a variety of contemporary and classic movies for an adult audience. This week’s featured film is How Stella Got Her Groove Back (1998; R). 

Books

• An American In Provence: Author Talk with Award-Winning Photographer Jamie Beck  – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). Author Jamie Beck will share her tips and techniques for creating amazing photos while discussing her transformational journey as an artist and woman. See the website for virtual view instructions or join library staff in Room 127 at the Stryker Center for this live Q&A event. 2:00 pm. 

Live Music

• Sounds of Summer Concert Series: Blackout – Riverwalk Landing (Yorktown). This week’s featured band is Blackout. Tasty concert snacks will also be available per Coastal Thirst, Water Street Grille aNd Pop’s Kettle Corn. Free. 6:30 – 9:00 pm. 
• Organ Recital: Michael Gibson – Bruton Parish Church (Williamsburg). Michael Gibson, organist from Williamsburg, will present a recital on the Dobson Pipe Organ in this historic worship center. 8:00 – 9:00 pm. 

Yoga 

• Evening Yoga – Tabb Library (Yorktown). Attend an evening of yoga and breathing exercises led by a certified yoga instructor. Classes are held the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of the month. For ages 18+ and all skill levels. 6:30 – 7:30 pm. 

History

• Revolutionary Points of View – Capitol Hall of Burgesses (Colonial Williamsburg). Step back in time and hear the many points of view surrounding war and independence in the days leading up to the American Revolution. Tickets are $16 and can be purchased online. 7:00 – 8:00 pm. 

Friday, June 16

Juneteenth

• Juneteenth Celebration – William & Mary (Williamsburg). William & Mary will join communities around the country in recognizing and celebrating Juneteenth, which commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. The event will feature a variety of performers and vendors and will be held at the Hearth: Memorial to the Enslaved from 3:00 – 6:00 pm. 
• A Juneteenth Pageant: The Play – Northampton Community Center (Hampton). The hopeful contestants of “A Juneteenth Pageant” will grapple for the crown while learning the true meaning of “Freedom Day.” This play features Akeylah Simone Walters, an award-winning singer, songwriter and recording artist and is presented by the Hampton History Museum and sponsored by Fort Monroe. Free. 7:00 pm. 

Teens

• Teens Night Out – James City County Library (Williamsburg). Teens are invited to celebrate summer with weekly Teens Night Out programs every Friday, June 16-August 18. There will be games, crafts, music and more. For ages 13-18. 6:00 – 8:00 pm. 

Live Music

• Governor’s Musick at the Art Museums – Hennage Auditorium (Colonial Williamsburg). Celebrate the nation’s independence by attending a music concert presented by Colonial Williamsburg’s resident Baroque chamber ensemble, the Governor’s Musick. Requires Art Museum admission/a Good Neighbor pass. 4:30 – 5:15 pm. 
• Williamsburg Live: The Wood Brothers – Lawn of the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg (Williamsburg). The Williamsburg Live summer music festival kicks off Friday, June 16 with a performance by The Wood Brothers, dubbed “masters of soulful folk.” 5:30 pm. 
• Live Music on the Pavilion: Allegra Duchaine – Williamsburg Winery (Williamsburg). Jumpstart your weekend with a performance by Allegra Duchaine at the 1619 Wine Pavilion. For weather-related cancellations, click here. 
• RapJack – The Virginia Beer Company (Williamsburg). Head over to VBC for a live show by RapJack, a Williamsburg-based Dead-heavy jam band. 6:00 – 9:00 pm. 
• The Heart of Charles City presents: JP Experience – 
  Cul’s Courthouse Grille (Charles City). Kick back and listen to classic rock, Motown, country and pop rock by the JP Experience. 6:00 – 9:00 pm. 

Outdoor Recreation

• Canoeing with the Stars – York River State Park (Williamsburg). Learn how to identify constellations while paddling the York River. See the website for canoe reservation details and prices. 7:30 – 10:30 pm. 

Family Movie Night

• Movies Under the Stars – Chickahominy Riverfront Park  (Williamsburg). Enjoy a great box office movie under the stars. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. This week’s scheduled film is DC League of Super-Pets (PG). Free. 8:30 pm. 

Saturday, June 17

Special Event

• STEAMing Through History Family Activity Day – Lee Hall Depot (Newport News). A family-friendly day of fun featuring interactive demos and hands-on activities related to railroad science. $12 per person or $25 per family. 
• Foods that Define American Cuisine – Taste Studio (Colonial Williamsburg). Commemorate Juneteenth with a special event featuring a cooking demonstration and stories. You’ll discover the origins and flavors of dishes that tell the story of America. This event features a four-course tasting menu with a welcome cocktail and beverages. Reservations are required. See the website for details. 6:00 – 8:00 pm. 

Juneteenth

• YJCW NAACP Motor Parade & Juneteenth Community Fest – Highland Park & Bicentennial Park (Williamsburg). A Juneteenth motor parade will commence at Highland Park beginning at 8:30 am, followed by the NAACP Youth Works and Williamsburg Police Department car show in Bicentennial Park. A Community Vendor Fair featuring entertainment and vendors will then be held from 9:00 am to noon. 
• York County Juneteenth Celebration – McReynolds Athletic Complex – 412 Sports Way (Yorktown). York Couty’s Juneteenth Celebration will feature a variety of family activities, a bounce house, entertainment, speakers, concessions and more. There will also be live music by Slapnation. A Movie in the Park featuring the film The Princess & The Frog will follow at 8:30 pm. 

Markets

• Yorktown Market Days – Riverwalk Landing (Yorktown). Enjoy spectacular views of the York River while shopping for seasonal produce, fresh baked goods, meats, beautiful artwork and more. A Taste of Love with Jan and Bart will perform various hits on the Riverwalk Landing Stage.. 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. 
• Williamsburg Farmers Market – Merchants Square (Williamsburg). Find a variety of local products – including seasonal produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, honey, cheese, cut flowers, handmade soaps and more – offered by more than 40 vendors. The market runs from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm and there will be live music from Audio Portrait this week from 9:00 – 11:00 am.
• Hilton Village Farmers Market – Historic Hilton Village (Newport News). Shop for goods from local farmers and bakers at this NEW year-round market at Historic Hilton Village. 9:00 am – 12:00 pm. 
• Toano Open Air Market – 7891 Richmond Road (Toano). Shop for a variety of items from local farmers, artists and artisans. 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

Genealogy

• The Joy of Genealogy – Yorktown Library (Yorktown). A professional genealogist and educator will use colorful slides and research stories to guide participants through the sometimes challenging process of locating and documenting proof of early Americans’ lives and achievements. 10:30 – 11:30 am. 

Outdoor Recreation

• Virginia State Parks History & Culture Day – York River State Park (Williamsburg). Learn about the unique history and culture of the communities on the York River. This special event will feature several special programs. It begins with the Rebellion & Runaway Walk at 10:00 am – which explores how the first enslaved people sought freedom. Throughout the morning and early afternoon, representatives from the National Park Service will present a special exhibit on Capt. John Smith and the Powhatan Native way of life from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. There will also be a special display focused on African American Waterman History and a Present Day Pirates geocaching station (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm). Included with standard park admission.
• As Far as the Stars Night Hike – York River State Park (Williamsburg). Discover the nocturnal creatures that make the park their home after the sunsets while embarking on a magical journey through the night. Included with standard park admission. 8:00 – 10:00 pm. 
• Stargazing – York River State Park (Williamsburg). The Virginia Peninsula Stargazers will point out different features of the solar system in the night sky. All equipment will be provided. This event is sky forecast-dependent. If the sky is expected to be overcast, a cancellation will be posted by 3 pm on the Virginia Parks website. Included with standard park admission. 9:00 – 11:59 pm.

Kids/Teens

• WRL Bookmobile FunFest: Bubbles and Foam – Abram Frink Jr. Community Center (Williamsburg). Kids will explore the science of bubbles and see a foam cannon that shoots bubbles up to 6 feet high. There will also be free pizza and ice cream at noon. 10:30 – 12:30 pm. 
• Homemade Ice Cream Making – James City County Library (Williamsburg). Participants will learn about ice cream making and make some to enjoy. For ages 9-18. 2:00 – 4:00 pm. 
• Dino Pajama Jam – Virginia Living Museum (Newport News). This family event will feature an evening of fun including a live DJ and dance floor, light snacks and arts and crafts activities. 6:00 – 8:30 pm. $15 per person ($12 for members); free for children 2 and under. 

Family Movie Night

• Movies in the Park: “The Princess and the Frog” – McReynolds Athletic Complex (Yorktown). Bring chairs or a blanket and enjoy a movie in the park. The featured film will be The Princess and the Frog (G). Concessions are available. See the website for information on weather-related updates. Movie begins at sunset and lasts 1 hour 35 minutes. 
• Outdoor Family Movie Night – Williamsburg Crossing (Williamsburg). Enjoy a free outdoor family movie night featuring the film DC League of Super-Pets, hosted by Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Muddy Marley’s Dog Wash, Coastal Animal Referral, Colonial Barber & Beauty and Two Trolls Consignment Boutique. 8:30 pm. 

Live Music

• Williamsburg Live: Kenny Loggins – Lawn of the Art Museums at Colonial Williamsburg (Williamsburg). The Williamsburg Live summer music festival continues Saturday with rock icon Kenny Loggins, known for his chart-topping songs over the last four decades, including “This Is It,” “I’m Alright,” “Footloose” and “Danger Zone.” Tickets are available here. 5:30 pm. 

Sunday, June 18

Father’s Day

• Father’s Day Surf & Turf – York River State Park (Williamsburg). Take Dad out on a Father’s Day adventure on land and sea. Participants will paddle the York River to Fossil Beach, search for prehistoric relics and then paddle back. Dad gets to paddle free with a paying paddler. See the website for canoe and kayak reservation prices. 2:00  5:00 pm. 
• Father’s Day at Coastal Fermentory– Coastal Fermentory (Newport News). Attend a Father’s Day event at Coastal Fermentory. There will be food from Bite of Maine and Old City BBQ; free axe throwing from Kinfolk Axe Throwing; free beard trims from Castro’s Barbershop; blacksmith demonstrations with Deep Creek Ironworks; cigars and pipes from North Suffolk Cigars; a free petting zoo and more than 20 artisans. 12:00 – 5:00 pm. 

Special Events

• Juneteenth Sunrise Service – Market Square North (Colonial Williamsburg). The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation will host a Juneteenth Sunrise Service to commemorate the triumphant spirit of the African American journey on Sunday, June 18 at 6 a.m. The service will take place the Compton Oak, a landmark tree symbolizing life, endurance, shelter, and joy. Tina Lifford, a visionary thought leader, will present a keynote address. 6:00 – 7:00 am. 
• Summer Reading Kickoff Party – Williamsburg Library (Williamsburg). Celebrate summer with the kickoff of WRL’s Summer Reading program. This event will feature the Teeny Tiny Farm, carnival games, face painting, a bounce house and other activities for kids and families. 1:00 – 4:00 pm.

Live Music

• Nadia Koz – Spoke and Art Provisions Co. (Williamsburg). Enjoy live acoustic tunes by Nadia Koz. 12:00 – 4:00 pm. 
• Live Music on the Pavilion: Felicia Hoyos – Williamsburg Winery (Williamsburg). Spend a relaxing Sunday evening enjoying the music of Felicia Hoyos at the 1619 Wine Pavilion. 2:00 – 5:00 pm. 

Multi-Day

Special Events

• Day Sails on Kalmar Nyckel, the Tall Ship of Delaware – Riverwalk Landing Piers (Yorktown). Kalmar Nyckel, The Tall Ship of Delaware, will be on the shores of the York River and offering 2.5-hour day sails June 15 – June 17. Patrons will be able to haul lines, set sails and hear tales from the crew – or simply relax and enjoy the ship. Kids will be treated to a scavenger hunt and pirate story (costumes welcome). The ship will sail Thursday, June 15 (3-5:30 pm), Friday, June 16 (10 am – 12:30 pm and 3-5:30 pm) and Saturday, June 17 (10 am – 12:30 pm and 5-7:30 pm). Time slots for these sails are already beginning to sell out. Tickets are $65 for adults; $40 for kids. See the website for details or to reserve a ticket. 
• Kids Dream Family Film Series – Movie Tavern (Williamsburg). The Movie Tavern theater in Williamsburg is offering $3 summer movies every week, June 13 – August 5, 2023. Movies will be shown at 11:00 am, Tuesday through Saturday. Movie Tavern has also recently launched the “Kids Dream Passport,” which allows children to see each film for just $15 total. Purchase the pass or individual tickets and see the full lineup of movies on Movie Tavern’s website. 
• Destination Dinosaurs – Virginia Living Museum (Newport News). Discover life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and interactive displays, find relics of the past as you dig for fossils and learn about linkages to the present. Dinosaurs inside the Museum, in the Conservation Gardens, and on the Dinosaur Discovery Trail in the woods create an expansive destination. From the towering T-Rex to the tanky Stegosaurus, you’ll encounter creatures that will take your breath away. This exhibit runs May 27 – September 4. See the website for additional details or to purchase tickets.
• Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival – Busch Gardens (Williamsburg). The Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival features over 150 international flavors at 16 themed food and beverage locations throughout the park. This year, there are more than 40 new offerings and a rotating menu of returning favorites. This event runs Thursdays-Sundays through June 11. See the website for additional details.

Theatre

• The Spitfire Grill – James-York Playhouse (Williamsburg). See The Williamsburg Players’ latest production: The Spitfire Grill. Shows will be held Thursday & Friday (8:00 pm), Saturday (2:00 pm & 8:00 pm) and Sunday (2:00 pm). Tickets are $20 for adults; $12 for children. See the website for details or to purchase tickets. June 2 – June 18. 

Future Events to Note

• Juneteenth Freedom Festival – King Lincoln Park (Newport News). Free community festival with musical entertainment, food and craft vendors and children’s activities. Monday, June 19, 12:00 – 5:00 pm.
• Project: 5:47, the Longest Day of Play! – James City County. Join JCC Parks & Recreation in celebrating the longest day of the year. There will be a variety of free activities and outdoor adventures all throughout the day. Some events require early registration by June 18. Other programs are drop-in (no registration needed). Wednesday, June 21. 
• Vineyard Live Concert: Good Shot Judy – New Kent Winery (Williamsburg). New Kent Winery is kicking off its Vineyard Live Concert Series with popular local swing band Good Shot Judy. There will also be wine, beer and food trucks. A few hundred seats will be available, but the venue recommends bringing your own chairs or blankets. Tickets are $10 for general admission. To reserve tickets, click here. Saturday, June 24, 6:30 – 9:30 pm.