65 things to do this week (April 11-17)

There are a bunch of events and activities happening – for kids and adults alike – as we head into Easter week.

A few highlights include the return of CW Lights at Colonial Williamsburg, York County History Day and the Sister Cities French Market in Yorktown and Free Entrance Day at Colonial National Historic Park on Saturday. There will also be several egg hunts over the weekend, including two in Newport News (Historic Hilton Village and Lee Hall Mansion) and one at Chippokes State Park.

If you’re on the lookout for a volunteer opportunity, Sister Cities Yorktown is currently in need of help for their annual Blues, Brews and BBQ Festival on May 7. All volunteers will receive free admission to the event with tasting privileges and preferred parking. For more information or to sign up to help, send an email to Don Willis, President of Sister Cities Yorktown, at [email protected].

Now to the events.

-Christin

Multiple Days

Intersections – Colonial Williamsburg. Sundays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays throughout the month of April. This street theatre experience explores the daily lives of ordinary people in the extraordinary times of the 18th century. Free and open to the public. 11:00 – 11:35 am.
The Photographer’s Guild Exhibit – Williamsburg Library. The Photographer’s Guild will be displaying photographs from its members in the Williamsburg Library Gallery. The display will also pay tribute to Norman Rictor, one of the Guild’s founders, who passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ranger Talk – Yorktown Battlefield Visitors Center. Join a park ranger for a brief story about the people, places or events in Yorktown during the Revolutionary War. Guests will meet the ranger at the Regimental Flags in front of the park Visitor Center and then travel to a specific location. Monday, April 11; Thursday, April 14; Friday, April 15; Saturday, April 16 and Sunday, April 17. 1:30 – 1:50 pm. Included with admission.
Yorktown Battlefield Walk – Yorktown Battlefield Visitors Center. A park ranger will lead guests on a short walk across the battlefield to offer insights into the 1781 Siege of Yorktown. Visitors should be prepared to walk for a half-mile and stand throughout much of the presentation. Included with admission. Monday, April 11; Thursday, April 14; Friday, April 15; Saturday, April 16; and Sunday, April 17. Two times are available daily: 10:00 -10:45 am and 3:00 – 3:45 pm.
CW Lights – Colonial Williamsburg. April 7-30. The Governor’s Palace Gardens will be illuminated in a magical glow during this family-friendly evening experience. You’ll enjoy the sounds of the finest 18th-century entertainment as you stroll through the bloom-filled gardens. Tickets are $19 for adults, $12 for children 12 and under. 8:00 – 9:00 pm.
Pirate Adventure Cruises ‍☠️- The Schooner Alliance in Yorktown is offering sails during spring break, including its popular pirate adventure cruises, available April 2-16. See what it was like to sail in the days of pirates and privateers. Kids will be able to help raise the sails, learn to tie knots and steer the ship. $31 for kids; $41 for adults.
Photos with the Easter Bunny – Patrick Henry Mall in Newport News. Visit the Easter Bunny in Center Court to capture spring family memories through April 16. Digital photo packages are available with the option to purchase prints. Reservations are encouraged. See website for times and details. $35.99.
Baby Bookworms – Tabb Library in Yorktown. Newborns to 14 months and their parent/caregiver are invited to attend this story time program for the very young. Literacy tips and parenting topics will also be discussed. This is a four-week series running through April 28. 1:30 – 2:15 pm.
Busch Gardens Kids Weekends – Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Busch Gardens is offering new activities for kids, Fridays through Sundays from April 1-24. The activities will take place in the Sesame Street Forest of Fun and feature dance parties, games, story time, crafts, a colorful flower maze and more. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Poetry Meetup – Main Street Library in Newport News. This poetry meetup for ages 10-17 will be held every Thursday in April for National Poetry Month. Students can share their favorite poem or read one they’ve written.
Colonial Williamsburg Hiring Events ✔️– Franklin Street Offices (427 Franklin St. in Williamsburg) – Wednesdays, April 13, and April 20 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm and Saturday, April 9 from 12:00 – 4:00 pm. This event will feature on-the-spot hiring, refreshments and a weekly raffle. Limited time hiring bonuses are available for certain positions.
VITA Free Tax Preparation Service ✔️– Colonial Williamsburg Kids Club (Building 17). Free tax preparation and electronic filing services are available to the public through the Greater Williamsburg Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. This service is available on a first-come, first-served basis on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 1:00 pm – 5:30 pm and Saturdays, 9:00 am – 1:30 pm through April 16. Covid-19 precautions will be followed and masks are required.
Afterschool Crafts ️– James City County Library. Monday – Thursday, 4:00-7:00 pm; Friday, 4:00-6:00 pm. This drop-in event features new crafts every week.

Monday, April 11

DOG St. Running Club ‍♀️- Merchant Square (Williamsburg). Open to all, this casual, family and dog-friendly running club is for walkers and runners of all ages. Meet up at 5:45 at Merchant Square in front of DoG Street Pub. Free.
Anime – Tabb Library (Yorktown). Middle and high school students can join fellow anime fans for conversation, snacks and anime. Registration is not required. 6:00 – 7:00 pm.
Mending Monday ✔️– Williamsburg Library (Williamsburg). Bring your sewing, stitching or mending project to the Williamsburg Library Maker Space and use their sewing machines and workspace. Library staff will be on hand to provide assistance with sewing resources and machine use. 6:00 – 8:00 pm.
Teen Craft Night ️– Pearl Bailey Library (Newport News). Teens ages 12-17 are invited to make sharpie tie-dye shirts at this free event. Registration is required. 5:00 – 7:00 pm.

Tuesday, April 12

Lunch and Learn – Grissom Library (Newport News). This series, presented by the Alzheimer’s Association, welcomes everyone who would like to learn about various aspects of life with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. 12:00 – 1:00 pm.
Art House Cafe Film Series: Icarus – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg)- In this true-crime thriller, an investigation into a doping scandal in amateur sports takes a dangerous turn when director Bryan Fogel connects with a Russian “fixer” for the Sochi Olympics. TV-MA. 2:00 – 4:05 pm.
Spice World – Tabb Library (Yorktown). Every month, Spice World features a new spice or spice blend from different regions around the world. A free take-home kit with recipes and information is provided. Cook with the spice at home and then come to this event to discuss the ingredient, recipes and opinions. Light refreshments highlighting the spice will be served. Kits are available while supplies last at the Grafton Annex and Tabb library. 6:30 – 7:30 pm.

Wednesday, April 13

Little Sprouts – Grissom Library (Newport News). Kids ages 3-7 can explore the wonders of the natural world with themed stories, crafts and activities. 11:00 am.
Reflecting and Planting Seeds: A Conversation with Arielle Newby, M.Ed. – Virtual. Ms. Newby, the Assistant Dean for Student Services at the William & Mary Law School, will discuss her leadership of the Staff Assembly during the Covid era, her advocacy for HBCUs, her advocacy for diversity, equity and inclusion at W&M and more. This talk is part of a series of discussions brought to the community through a collaboration between William & Mary and Williamsburg Regional Library. Register here. Free. 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm.
Movies at Main Film Discussion: Jimi Hendrix – Main Street Library (Newport News). Watch and discuss the film Jimi Hendrix. A discussion on the film will be held after the showing. For adults 18+. 5:30 – 7:30 pm.
Camera Basics – Main Street Library (Newport News). This one-session, two-hour workshop introduces participants to the basics of digital photography. Students should bring a camera, SD card and their camera manual to class. With advanced requests, cameras may be provided for the class. Registration is required. 5:30 – 7:30 pm.
Monthly Folk Jam – Watermen’s Museum (Yorktown). In this monthly jam session, participants will go around a circle picking songs to play together. Attendees are encouraged to bring an instrument if they have one. 5:30 – 9:00 pm.
Fellowship in a Ring – James City County Library (Williamsburg). This group focuses on science fiction and fantasy books, films, television and pop culture. A suggested reading list is given out before each meeting. 6:30 pm.
Yoga @ Grissom – Grissom Library in Newport News and Virtual. Instructor Emily Coyner will teach a series of introductory yoga classes. This event is available both in-person and online. In-person classes will be held outside. 6:00 pm.

Thursday, April 14

Throwback Thursday Film Series – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). This comedic classic film tells the story of a disastrous American comeback tour of a British heavy metal band. The Spinal Tap. 2:00 – 3:30 pm.
Talks @ 2 – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). Learn what the NOAA ship Okeanos Explorer and its robotic subs have been discovering while mapping the deep-sea floor, which is considered the planet’s last unexplored frontier. 2:00 pm.
The President is Dead! A Photographic Study of the Lincoln Assassination – Hennage Auditorium at CW (Williamsburg). Civil War expert Carson Hudson will tell the story of the president’s assassination through the examination and analysis of photographs taken during the period. CW admission or a Good Neighbor’s pass is required. 4:30 – 5:30 pm.
Teen Game Night – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). This event will include an escape room. Teens are encouraged to show up early to reserve their spot. For ages 13+. 5:30 – 7:30 pm.
Celtic Film Series: “The Brylcreem Boys” – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). This film, based on actual events, tells the true story of a group of British and German servicemen who find themselves in the same internment camp in the neutral Republic of Ireland during WWII. Rated PG-13. Free. 6:00 pm.
Talking History Lecture Series: Carolyn Gilman – The American Revolution Museum (Yorktown). Carolyn Gilman, published author and museum consultant, presents “The American Revolution in Indian Country.” This is a free public lecture, and protective protocols will be in place to ensure a safe event experience. Advanced registration is required. Register here. 7:00 pm.
Snuggle Stories: A Family Story Time – Tabb Library (Yorktown). Features a family storytime for children of all ages and a parent or caregiver. Kids are encouraged to wear their pajamas and bring a favorite stuffed animal. Registration is not required. 7:00 – 7:30 pm.
Power in the Panels – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). This graphic novel book club for adults 18+ meets the second Thursday of every month to read and discuss independent graphic novels. This month’s book is “The Many Deaths of Laila Starr,” by Ram V. Humanity. 7:00 pm.
Homeschool Thursdays – Grissom Library (Newport News). Homeschooled kids ages 5-11 are invited to attend this STEAM program. Registration is required. 10:30 am.
History on Film: The Conspirator – Grissom Library (Newport News). This film tells the story of Mary Surratt, who in 1865 became the first woman executed by the federal government for her role in a conspiracy to assassinate President Lincoln. Free. 5:30 pm.
Book Bouquet ️– Pearl Bailey Library (Newport News). Transform old books into beautiful bouquets in this Earth Day-inspired craft. For ages 18+. All materials will be provided. 6:00 – 7:30 pm.
Books & Beers Club – Tradition Brewing Company (Newport News). Discuss good books while enjoying great beer with NNPL’s Books and Beers book club, which meets at Tradition Brewing Company every second Thursday of the month. April’s book is “The Good Son” by Jacquelyn Mitchard. 6:00 pm.

Friday, April 15

Your Best (Asian) American Girl – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). William & Mary actress-sing-scholar Sumie Yotsukura makes a cabaret debut with an hour of musical theatre during this event. 3:00 – 4:00 pm. Friday & Saturday.
Civil War Lecture: Capt. John L. Worden – Mariner’s Museum (Newport News) and Virtual. Presenter John V. Quarstein, director emeritus of the USS Monitor Center, will discuss Captain John Lorimer, commander of the ironclad USS Monitor. Advanced registration is required whether attending in person or online. 12:00 – 1:00 pm.
Main Street Library Chess Club♟️- Main Street Library (Newport News). This chess program for ages 5-17 meets on the third Friday of every month. 1:00 – 2:30 pm.
Dungeons & Dragons – Virtual, hosted by Newport News Public Library – Join to participate in a digital game of Dungeons and Dragons on Discord. You’ll embark on a grand adventure through a fantasy world of magic, monsters and evil warlords. For adults 18+. 7:00 – 9:00 pm.
H4TG Annual “Breast” Ball Golf Tournament ⛳– First Colony Club House (Williamsburg). The annual “Breast” Ball Golf Tournament is one of the main fundraising events of the year for Here for the Girls, Inc., a local nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young women impacted by breast cancer. This event features a fun day of golf, prizes, raffles, food and more. 7:30 am – 4:30 pm.

Saturday, April 16

Free Admission at Colonial National Historical Park – (Yorktown). Entrance fees for the park will be waived on April 16 to celebrate the kickoff of National Park Week and encourage everyone to enjoy the national parks.
Yorktown Market Days: Sister Cities French Market – Riverwalk Landing (Yorktown). This special Sister Cities French Market will feature French music, wine and traditional market products including fresh-baked bread and pastries, chocolates, crepes, macarons and authentic beignets. All proceeds support programming by Sister Cities Yorktown, including citizen and student exchanges. Volunteers are needed. 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.
Habitat ReStore 10th Anniversary Celebration ✔️– 1303 Jamestown Rd. (Williamsburg). Join Habitat ReStore for special sales, extended hours, a cookout, prizes and contests. 8:00 am – 6:00 pm.
Williamsburg Farmers Market – Duke of Gloucester Street and P4 parking lot (Williamsburg). The Williamsburg Farmers Market is back for the 2022 season! Shop from producers of locally grown produce, baked goods, cut flowers, organic vegetables, herbs, pasture-raised meats, cheeses, fresh bread, honey and more. Visa, Mastercard, SNAP and W&M express are now accepted. 9:00 am – noon.
Toano Open Air Market – 7891 Richmond Rd (Toano). Shop safely every Saturday while supporting local farmers, artisans, pollinators and a variety of other vendors. Pre-ordering is recommended in order to ensure product availability. 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.
York County History Day – (Yorktown). Activities will be taking place throughout town, including Watermen’s Museum (Civil War living history, cannon firing, music, Annual Chili Cook-Off, Easter Vigil), York Hall (music, storytelling and living history), Riverwalk Landing (Colonial exhibits) and York Hall, On the Hill Gallery and Mobjack Bay (special exhibits). Free. See this flyer for specific event times and additional details. 10:00 am – 4:00 pm.
Bookmobile FunFest: Power Up Paper Airplanes ✈️- Abram Fink Jr. Community Center (Williamsburg). Kids can make their paper airplanes fly longer and farther by using high-quality paper plane engines designed to provide more than 30 seconds of flying time. Drop in anytime during the event for more science activities and crafts. Pizza and ice-cream will be served at noon. Free. 10:00 am – 1:00 pm.
Dabble in Discovery – York River State Park (Williamsburg). Meet the park’s naturalist/ranger who will discuss the wide variety of aquatic, insect, mammal and plant life living in this two-thousand-acre park. This event will take place during two timeframes: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm and 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm.
Historic Hilton Village Easter Egg Hunt – Historic Hilton Village (Newport News). This Easter Egg Hunt will be held at the Hilton Elementary field and/or Hilton Ravine. There will be two sections, one for Wee Villagers and one for Little Villagers. Be sure to bring a basket for collecting eggs. 10:00 am.
Easter Bunny and Scavenger Hunt – Lee Hall Mansion (Newport News). Kids are invited to meet the Easter Bunny, participate in crafts and games and take part in an Easter egg and history scavenger hunt. A timed reservation is required and can be made here. Free. 10:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Historic Organ Recital – William & Mary Wren Chapel (Williamsburg). Featuring Rebecca Davy, Music Director & Organist of Bruton Parish. All concerts are non-ticketed and open to the public; freewill offerings are gratefully received. 10:00 am.
Civil War Tour of the Yorktown Village, Part 1: 1861 – 1862 – Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters (Yorktown). Learn about the Peninsula Campaign of 1862, which pitted commanders against each other over a Revolutionary War Battlefield. 11:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Preschool Dance Party – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). This event features an hour of exciting songs, movement, rhymes and fun for preschool-aged children. 11:00 am – 12:00 pm.
Williamsburg Friends of IANDS April Meeting – Virtual. Williamsburg Friends of IANDS (International Association for Near-Death Studies) is a nonprofit organization that introduces the public to individuals who have had life-changing near-death experiences. This month’s guest speaker Peter Panagore. Peter spent fifteen years writing stories of hope and inspiration for a daily NBC-TV broadcast, and today, he’s an internationally known spiritual-cultural influencer and public figure. See website for Zoom meeting details. Free and open to the public. 11:00 am.
Civil War Walking Tour of the Yorktown Village, Part 2: 1862-1864 – Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters (Yorktown). Learn about Union operations against Richmond and Confederate naval raiders. Find inspiration from stories of African Americans who sought freedom and view Civil War photographs that offer a glimpse into the past. 1:00 – 2:00 pm.
Chess Club ♟️- Tabb Library (Yorktown). Drop in for open play chess every third Saturday from 1-4 pm. For adults and youth ages 12+ of all skill levels. 1:00 – 4:00 pm.
Planting for Pollinators – Grissom Library (Newport News). Learn how simple choices can help transform your yard or garden bed into an ideal habitat for pollinators like Monarch butterflies and honey bees. Registration is required. For adults 18+. 2:00 – 4:00 pm.
Pop-In Saturday: Bunny Day! – Pearl Bailey Library (Newport News). Kids ages 3-11 are invited to drop in anytime between 2-4 pm for crafts and an egg scavenger hunt. Registration is not required. Free. 2:00 – 4:00 pm.
Beers, Beats, & Bites feat. Nathan Lienard Music – The Virginia Beer Company (Williamsburg). Enjoy the area’s finest music makers live in the beer garden. This week’s event features Nathan Lienard. A food truck will also be on site. 4:00 – 7:00 pm.
Live Music Saturdays – Brass Cannon Brewing (Williamsburg). Different musical genres, musicians and bands are featured every Saturday night. 6:00 – 9:00 pm.

Sunday, April 17

Friends of Chippokes Annual Easter Egg Hunt – Chippokes State Park (Surry) – Children aged 10 and under are invited to participate in this egg hunt featuring over 1,000 eggs. The hunt will be separated into two sections based on age. Children should bring their own baskets. Light refreshments and activities for the whole family will also be available. $7 vehicle entrance fee. 2:00 – 4:00 pm.

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