Things to do this week: Local author book signing, ‘Salute to the Presidents,’ winter markets and more

Local authors Melinda Lincoln Richardson and Michael Richardson will be signing copies of their newly-released book, Beautiful Blue & You, at the Barnes & Noble in New Town, Williamsburg, this Saturday, Feb. 25, from 1:00 – 4:00 pm.

The book is a joint project for the husband-and-wife team. Michael photographed detailed shots of “Beautiful Blue” – a neighborhood blue heron at a pond in Ford’s Colony in Williamsburg – and Melinda personified the blue heron, speaking “directly to the reader.” Melinda says the goal was to create a unique nature book that also has an empowering, self-help theme.

“The three to five line narration per facing page, using a stream-of-consciousness writing technique, offers each reader many lessons and challenges reflecting life through nature’s lens,” Melinda told The Triangle.

The book is now available online through Barnes & Noble, Amazon.com, BooksaMillion.com and Walmart.com. The Richardsons have also donated a copy of the book to the Williamsburg Library for the community to enjoy.

Some other events to highlight this week include a special Salute to the Presidents event at Colonial Williamsburg (Monday), a visit by Micheline Aharonian Marcom, author of The New American (Tuesday) and an after-hours Reign & Rebellion Revolutionary Reception at Jamestown Settlement (Thursday).

The weekend will bring a free Food Preservation & Preparation history program at Freedom Park, another Yorktown Winter Market and the After Angelo Black Artist Showcase at Jamestown Settlement (all on Saturday).

The Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream shop in Williamsburg’s Merchants Square will also celebrate its 50th anniversary this Saturday with 50% off all scoops.

-Christin

Monday, Feb. 20

President’s Day

• A Public Audience with the 4th President, James Madison – Governor’s Palace Stage (Williamsburg). President Madison will reflect on the invention of the executive branch of the United States during this special President’s Day event. Requires CW admission or a Good Neighbor pass. 11:30 – 12:15 pm. 
• Salute to the Presidents – Market Square North (Colonial Williamsburg). Attend a celebration of the presidency with CW’s Nation Builders, military program staff and the Fifes and Drums. The celebration will recognize those who served in office over the centuries. Open to the public. 1:00 – 1:30 pm. 

Health & Wellness

• Marathon Mondays: Barre Class – Riverside Wellness & Fitness Center (Newport News). Attend a free Barre class offered by Riverside as part of the City of Newport News Marathon Mondays health and wellness series. Wear comfortable athletic clothing and bring the whole family. See website for a full description and to reserve your spot. 12:00 – 1:00 pm. 

Films

• Cinema @ Scotland Street / One Book One Community: “Queen of Glory”  – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). The Cinema @ Scotland Street series features indie, art house, foreign and documentary films. Admission is free. This month’s featured film is Queen of Glory (2021). See a trailer here. 6:00 – 7:30 pm. 

Tuesday, Feb. 21

History

• To Purchase a Likely Man – Hennage Auditorium (Colonial Williamsburg). Join Colonel and Mrs. Washington as they discuss the complexities of purchasing a pair of enslaved brothers in roles that will place them by their sides for decades. 1:30 – 2:15 pm. 

Films

• Art House Café Film Series: “Descendant” – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). This film series brings an art house flavor to your Tuesdays while allowing you to hear from special guests, enjoy light refreshments and have a discussion after the film. This week’s featured film is Descendant (2022; PG). See the website for a description. 2:00 – 3:50 pm. 

Crafts

• Makerspace: Metal Stamping Bracelet – James City County Library (Williamsburg). You’ll learn the basics of metal stamping and leave with a finished bracelet. 4:00 pm. 

Kids

• Elementary Creation Station: Session 2 – Tabb Library (Yorktown). Kids in grades K-5 are invited to attend this creative craft hour. This month’s theme is space. 4:30 – 5:30 pm. 

Books & Writing

• One Book One Community Author Visit Micheline Aharonian Marcom – Williamsburg Library (Williamsburg). Micheline Marcom – author of  WRL’s 2023 One Book One Community selection The New American – will be present for a reading and discussion at the Williamsburg Library Theatre. 6:30 pm. 
• Tabb Library Writers’ Group – Tabb Library (Yorktown). These monthly meetings provide writers with a space to work on their projects, offer and receive critiques and meet other local writers. 6:30 – 7:45 pm. 

Lecture

• “The Reservation” Talk & Panel Discussion – Tabb Library (Yorktown). Dr. Jajuan S. Johnson, the Mellon Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow with The Lemon Project at William & Mary, will present an introductory talk about reclaiming black community narratives and an accompanying panel discussion with representatives of the Friends of the Reservation. 6:30 – 8:00 pm. 

Wednesday, Feb. 22

History

• Musick in the Geddy House – James Geddy House (Williamsburg). Enjoy plays and songs from one or more members of the Governor’s Musick ensemble. Guests will also be able to ask questions about the music and instruments. Requires CW admission or a Good Neighbor pass. 11:00 am – 2:00 pm.
• Pictures of West Africa – Hennage Auditorium (Colonial Williamsburg). Harold Caldwell, apprentice carpenter, will share a pictorial of the connected 18th-century African and Virginian history. Requires Art Museum Admission or a Good Neighbor pass. 4:30-5:15 pm. 

Health & Wellness

• Drumming for Wellness – James City County Recreation Center (Williamsburg). Students will learn basic meditation and drumming techniques and take part in drum circles and sound immersions. No musical experience necessary; all instruments will be provided. Free, but registration is required. 5:30 – 7:00 pm. 
• Meditation Series – Tabb Library (Yorktown). Attendees will establish or deepen their mindfulness and meditation practice in a supportive, small group setting. February’s planned topic is Impermanence. 6:30 – 7:45 pm. 

Thursday, Feb. 23

History

• Reign & Rebellion Revolutionaries Reception – Jamestown Settlement (Williamsburg). During this after-hours event, you’ll enjoy an exclusive look into Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation’s special exhibition, Reign & Rebellion, and celebrate the re-launch of The Revolutionaries giving society. This event is hosted in the Jamestown Settlement Robert V. Hatcher, Jr. Rotunda. Signature cocktails and themed bites from The Hound’s Tale gastropub will also be available. Tickets are $55; pre-registration is required. 6:30 – 8:30 pm. 

Films

• Throwback Thursday Film Series: “Honeymoon in Vegas” – 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 Honeymoon in Vegas (1992; PG-13). 2:00 – 3:45 pm. 

Educational

• One Book One Community: Finding Immigration and Naturalization Records Online – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). Attendees will retrace the path of their ancestors who immigrated to the U.S. There will be a discussion on where to look for ships’ passenger ships and immigration and naturalization records. See website for registration details. 2:00 – 3:30 pm.
• VIMS After Hours: Applying Marine Science to Regulatory Realities –  VIMS – Watermen’s Hall (Gloucester Point/Virtual). Emily Hein, Assistant Director for Advisory Services, will discuss how VIMS science-based recommendations are used by regulators to inform decisions on a wide range of projects – from backyard erosion on tidal creeks, to the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel Expansion Project, to oil spill response. This event will also be live-streamed on Zoom as a webinar; registration is required. Register here. 7:00 – 8:00 pm. 

Films

• Throwback Thursday Film Series – Williamsburg Library Theatre (Williamsburg). This week’s featured film is The Girl in the Red Velvet Swing (1955; NR). 2:00 – 3:55 pm.

Kids

• After School Art Class Series – James City County Recreation Center (Williamsburg). Kids will write a number and turn it into an extraordinary drawing by following a simple process. No math skills are needed. For kids ages 5-12. This program meets Thursdays, Feb. 23-March 16, 4:00 – 5:00 pm. $70. 

Tweens & Teens

• Drop-in D&D – James City County Library (Williamsburg). Dungeons & Dragons players ages 9-18 are invited to drop-in and play this classic tabletop game. All experience levels are welcome. 5:30 – 7:30 pm. 

Friday, Feb. 24

History

• Four Freedom Fighters from Southampton County – The Mariners’ Museum and Park (Newport News). Learn about how Southampton County, Virginia, was home to four men who took radically different paths seeking freedom. This lecture will be in-person and virtual and registration is required. $1 to attend in person; free to watch online. See website for more details. 12:00 – 1:00 pm.
• Phillis Wheatley and the Music of Freedom – Hennage Auditorium (Colonial Williamsburg). Attend a musical exploration of the paradox of freedom as seen through the poetry of Phillis Wheatley. Wheatley was named after a slave ship that brought her to the colonies as a child. She possessed great talent and ultimately wrote poetry that garnered the attention of George Washington, who became a strong proponent of her writings. 4:30 – 5:30 pm.

Kids & Families

• Glow BAM! Family Drum Fitness – James City County Recreation Center (Williamsburg). Try something new this winter. Drum fitness is a fun, active class for people of all ages and abilities. You’ll drum away stress while increasing your fitness and listening to music. For ages 5+. Free. See website for registration information. 5:30 – 6:30 pm. 

Live Music

• The Connection – Frothy Moon Brewhouse (Williamsburg). The Connection will perform a mix of rock, blues, country and a bit of folk at the Frothy Moon Brewhouse. 6:00 pm. 

Saturday, Feb. 25

Special Events

• Baskin-Robbins Ice Cream 50 Year Anniversary Celebration – Merchants Square (Williamsburg). To celebrate its 50th anniversary in Merchants Square, Baskin-Robbins will offer 50% off scoops of ice cream Saturday, Feb. 25. (Note: This sale willbe happening at the Merchants Square location in Williamsburg only). 10:00 am – 10:00 pm.
• After Angelo Black Artist Showcase – Jamestown Settlement (Williamsburg). This one-day program honors the legacy of Angelo, one of the first African women mentioned by name in the historical record at Jamestown. The event will feature a lively celebration of African-American culture and heritage, including various performances. See a full schedule of the day’s events here. This event is included with museum admission. Admission is free for residents of the City of Williamsburg, James City County and York County with proof of residency. 12:00 – 5:00 pm.

Markets 

• Yorktown Market Days: Winter Market – Get out and enjoy the winter sunshine at Riverwalk Landing’s Yorktown Winter Market. Shop for locally grown, produced and crafted products from your favorite vendors and artists. You’ll find baked goods, prepared soups, gourmet chocolates, homemade candles, dog treats and more. 10:00 am – 2:00 pm. 
• Hilton Farmers Market – Historic Hilton Village (Williamsburg). Shop for goods from local farmers and bakers at Historic Hilton Village. 8:00 am – 12:00 pm. 

Nature

• Bird Walk – New Quarter Park (Williamsburg). Attend a free bird walk, hosted by the Williamsburg Bird Club, at New Quarter Park. Meet in the parking lot near the park office; bring binoculars or borrow some from the office. Open to the public. 8:00 – 10:00 am.

History 

• Afro American Waterman’s Walk – York River State Park (Williamsburg). Learn about the world of free and enslaved “black jack” watermen and discover the ways in which African Americans have been part of the Chesapeake Bay’s seafood industry since the Colonial era. Included in park admission; reservations are required. 10:00 am – 12:00 pm. 
• History Program: Food Preservation & Preparation – Freedom Park (Williamsburg). See how residents of Freedom Park’s Free Black Settlement of 1807 preserved and prepared foods during harsh winter months. No registration is required. For all ages. Free. 11:00 am – 1:00 pm. 
• Voices of Their Hands – William Pitt Store (Colonial Williamsburg). Explore the lives of enslaved tradespeople during this one-hour walking tour. You’ll hear from historic tradespeople who will discuss their experiences interpreting skilled laborers and their work. 11:00 – 12:00 pm. Requires CW admission or a Good Neighbor pass and a $15 event ticket. 
• A Taste of Freedom – Hennage Auditorium (Colonial Williamsburg). This performance highlights the life of Americus Weston, a formerly enslaved man who gained freedom by escaping to a Union camp in the South. Requires Art Museum Admission or a Good Neighbor Pass. 1:30 – 2:15 pm.

Health & Wellness

• Walk This Way: Williamsburg Walking Club – Greensprings Interpretive Trail (Williamsburg). Walking coaches will guide you through local trails, with a different trail location every month. This month, the walking program will be held at Greensprings Interpretive Trail. Have fun while making a positive impact on your health. 10:00 – 11:00 am. 

Crafts

• Paint Your Own Frederick Douglass Pottery Jar  – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). In celebration of Black History Month, paint your own replica of a pottery jar owned by Frederick Douglass to take home. For ages 13-adult. See website for registration details. 2:00 pm. 
• Makerspace: Glowforge Leather Keychain – Williamsburg Library (Williamsburg). Cut and assemble a leather keychain on the Glowforge. For ages 13 through adult. 2:00 pm. 

Live Music

• Barry Manilow’s Wardrobe – Jolene’s Bar and Grill (Williamsburg). Enjoy live music by 80’s band Barry Manilow’s Wardrobe. 7:30 – 11:00 pm. 
• Chamber String Recital – Bruton Parish (Williamsburg). Attend a candlelight concert by The Violin Studio of Loretta McCray in this beautiful 18th-century worship building. 8:00 – 9:00 pm. 

Sunday, Feb. 26

Writing

• Tips and Tricks for Writing Your Novel: How to Get Ideas from Your Head to the Page – Stryker Center (Williamsburg). In this writing workshop, you’ll learn proven tips and tools for getting a story on paper, including how to stay focused, the secret to avoiding writer’s block, resources to grow your skills and more. Taught by Brian Forrester, author of the young adult novel, The Jungle Within. For ages 13 through adult. 2:00 pm. 

Teens

• Anime Afternoon: “My Hero Academia: Heroes Rising” – James City County Library (Williamsburg). Teens ages 13-18 are invited to watch this anime film, followed by snacks and conversation. 2:00 pm. 

History & Culture

• Cultural Heritage Series: Valarie Gray Holmes – Williamsburg Library (Williamsburg). This program features Valarie Gray Holmes, who has written and performed in a variety of productions, with a special focus on the contributions of enslaved and free African American women.  Her presentation on “Angela” was featured in local state and national media, including USA Today and The Washington Post. 3:00 pm. 

Live Music

• Erik Gaines – Strangeways Brewing (Williamsburg). Williamsburg-based singer-songwriter Erik Gaines will perform original music, drawing influences from southern rock, country, folk and blues artists. 6:00 – 9:00 pm. 

Multi-Day

Special Events

• Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival – Hampton Roads Convention Center (Hampton). Attend the 34th annual Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival at the Hampton Roads Convention Center, Feb. 23-26, 2023. The event’s renowned Merchants Mall will consist of vendors from across the country offering textiles, quilting supplies, machines, books, sewing-related craft items, clothing and more. Admission for non-registered participants is $17 ($15 for Sunday only). It includes re-admission and can be purchased on-site only during show hours. Accompanied kids under age 16 are admitted for free. See the website for times and details. 

Seasonal

• Liberty Ice Pavilion – Colonial Williamsburg. The Liberty Ice Pavilion at Colonial Williamsburg is open daily through Feb. 26, 2023. See the ice rink’s full operating schedule here.
• Busch Gardens Mardi Gras – Busch Gardens Williamsburg. Busch Gardens reopens in celebration of Mardi Gras every weekend from Jan. 27 through Feb. 26. The event will feature jazzy live music, classic Cajun flavors and favorite events like the cirque show Carnaval Imaginique. Guests will also enjoy colorful entertainment throughout all nine of Busch Gardens’ villages. Visit buschgardens.com for additional information or to purchase tickets.

Art

• Newport News Public Schools Citywide Youth Art Exhibit – Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center (Newport News). Artwork created by talented students from every public school in Newport News will be displayed in the Newport News Community Gallery at the Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center through Feb. 28. The exhibit is open to the public and available for viewing daily, Monday – Friday from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm and Saturday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (closed Sundays). 
• Buildings and Business: The Landscape of African Americans in the East End of Newport News – The Newsome House Museum & Cultural Center (Newport News). The Newsome House presents “Buildings and Business: The Landscape of African Americans in the East End of Newport News,” Feb. 1 – 25. The exhibit explores the important role African Americans played in the physical and cultural development of the East End of Newport News. Admission is free, and the museum is open Thursday-Sunday. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm.

Theatre

• Proof – Kimball Theatre (Williamsburg). William & Mary Theatre will present its production of Proof, written by David Auburn and directed by Abbie Cathcart, Feb. 23-26 (7:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 2:00 pm Sunday). See a full description here. Tickets are $15/adults, $7/students and children, and can be purchased here.
• The Bridges of Madison County – Peninsula Community Theatre (Newport News). This performance is set in America’s heartland and features a soaring score and heartbreaking story. See the website for a full description. Feb. 24 – Mar. 12 (Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm). Tickets can be purchased online and are $20 for general admission; $17 for senior/military and $12 for students. 

Kids & Families 

• Colonial Williamsburg Homeschool Days 2023 – Colonial Williamsburg. Colonial Williamsburg will be offering discounted rates and special programming for homeschoolers and their families, Feb. 25-March 5, 2023. For additional details, click here. 

Tax Help

• Free Tax Prep Help – Multiple Locations. Free tax preparation services are available through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and Tax Counseling for the Elderly for taxpayers who qualify, now through mid-April. To find a free tax preparation service near you, visit this website and enter your zip code. In Williamsburg, AARP Tax Aide is also available at the Williamsburg Library and at Fire Station #1, Feb. 1 – April 15. VITA tax preparation services are available Tuesday and Thursday (1-5:30 pm) and Saturdays (9 am – 1:30 pm) at Colonial Williamsburg’s Kids Club Building 17 Near the Visitors Center. Click here for additional details.