Special exhibits and events honor Washington family ties and American Independence
FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA–JANUARY 2026–As the country celebrates its 250th anniversary, Fredericksburg, Virginia, on the banks of the Rappahannock River, stands out as a destination filled with genuine American stories and experiences. A mix of events celebrating its people and culture complement the historic attractions that tell Fredericksburg’s revolutionary stories and its pivotal role in U.S. history.
Fredericksburg is located midway between Washington, D.C. and Richmond, Virginia, and is easy to reach via rail, as both Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express provide frequent, convenient service to downtown. Highway access is easy, too, as Interstate 95 and U.S. Routes 1 and 17 pass directly through the city, as does Virginia Route 3.
As part of 2026’s commemorations, Fredericksburg is planning symposiums, special events and, of course, a 4th of July celebration to remember. The Independence Day event will include a reenactment, fireworks, music and more. For details on all the America 250 local events, check out details online at fxbg.com/fxbg250.
Just as our first president left an indelible mark in the U.S. history, George Washington’s legacy is woven into the fabric of Fredericksburg. This destination is a key stop in Virginia’s Walking in George Washington’s Footsteps America 250 event as Washington and his family history live on here. George Washington’s Boyhood Home at Ferry Farm (268 Kings Highway, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22405; 540-370-0732), where he moved when he was six years old, is located just across the river from downtown Fredericksburg. Today the grounds include a visitor center and gardens that feature plants grown in the 18th century, along with a replica of the Washington home. Other Washington family sites of interest here include:
The Mary Washington House (1200 Charles Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-373-1569), located downtown. This is the home George purchased for his mother and is where she lived out her final years. Events of her years there are recounted by interpreters in period dress during daily tours.
Mary Washington Monument (1500 Washington Avenue, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-373-5630), which was dedicated in 1894, more than a century after her death.
Historic Kenmore (1201 Washington Avenue, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-370-0732) was completed in 1775 for George’s sister Betty Washington Lewis and her husband, Fielding Lewis.
Rising Sun Tavern (1304 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-371-1494) was constructed in the early 1760s as the family home for the youngest Washington brother, Charles. The building became a tavern in 1792 and today the museum on this site offers insight into colonial life.
These locations and more are a part of self-guided Presidents Tour, which includes sites related to James Monroe, Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln’s activities in Fredericksburg.
2026 also marks the 300th birthday of Brigadier General Hugh Mercer, who, in addition to being a soldier and Revolutionary War hero, was a physician. Beginning in January, the Hugh Mercer Apothecary (1020 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-373-3362) is hosting a series of events to honor his life and legacy. A visit to the Apothecary allows visitors to step back in time and celebrate one of Fredericksburg’s most important figures. After leaving his practice to join the Revolutionary army Mercer died at the Battle of Princeton.
In 2026 (dates to come) the Fredericksburg Area Museum (907 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-371-3037) will host a 250th anniversary exhibit, “Witness to a Revolution,” spotlighting local patriots who contributed to the American Revolution. This will also be the site of an “America the Beautiful” quilt display. The museum is housed in the historic Town Hall and Market House (c. 1816) and its collections and exhibits span local history Fredericksburg and its people, from Native American inhabitants to Civil Rights activists and beyond.
Local guides bring stories of 1700s Fredericksburg and much more to life on engaging tours. Hallowed Ground Tours (540-809-3918) offers customized tours as well as outings focused on architecture and Civil War sites. History Walks FXBG (601 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-624-8280) brings Fredericksburg’s rich Colonial and Civil War history to life, highlighting stories of noteworthy residents and crucial events that shaped this historic yet progressive destination.
Where to eat
Fredericksburg is home to more than 40 chef-owned restaurants which combine for an outstanding array of quality, creativity and variety in dining experiences here. These are just a few of the excellent options that seem fitting when celebrating America’s 250th.
Capital Ale House (917 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-371-2337) is an upscale-casual restaurant that features 66 craft and import beers on draught and more than 100 selections of bottled beers. The menu features regional cuisine and European fare.
Rebellion Bourbon Bar and Kitchen (309 William Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-681-1969) combines American history with its approach to food and beverage, putting a creative spin on Southern-American cuisine, often including bourbon as a staple ingredient in signature dishes.
Colonial Tavern Home to the Irish Brigade (406 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-373-1313) serves traditional Irish as well as American fare and is known for its friendly service and fun atmosphere.
Mason Dixon Café (2100 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-371-1950) serves scratch-made specialties and Southern favorites for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
FoodE (900 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401; 540-479-1370) is known for its farm-to-table regional specialties with a focus on products sourced from local farms. It’s also known for its co-owner and executive chef, Joy Crump, a Top Chef contestant who has cooked at the James Beard House.