In 2026, the United States of America will mark its 250th anniversary. This once-in-a-generation moment—one of celebration, reflection, and aspiration—will be marked with numerous events across the country. Top among that list will be Sail250®, which will bring a fleet of the world’s most magnificent international tall ships and military ships, in an epic peacetime gathering, up the country’s east coast. Primary ports include New Orleans, Norfolk, Baltimore, New York, and Boston.
The City of Richmond and the Virginia Museum of History & Culture are proud to partner in hosting Richmond SailFest, a Sail Virginia℠ 2026 Affiliate Harbor. Kicking off Central Virginia’s countdown to America’s 250th anniversary, Richmond will host several impressive tall ships along with dockside entertainment and concessions. This FREE, family-friendly, weekend-long festival will feature ship tours, live music and performances, historical re-enactors, exhibitions of history and art, and much more. The evening of Saturday, June 13, will end with an epic display of fireworks over the James River!
