WILLIAMSBURG— The Virginia Arts Festival will present its annual outdoor summer music event, Williamsburg Live, June 25–28 on the Lawn of the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg.
The four-day concert series expands to an additional night in 2026, featuring performances in rock, jazz, bluegrass and country. Organizers say the added date reflects the event’s growing popularity and a partnership with Visit Williamsburg, Colonial Williamsburg and the City of Williamsburg as part of events surrounding the nation’s 250th anniversary.
Tickets go on sale Friday, Feb. 27, at vafest.org, by phone at 757-282-2822 or in person at the Virginia Arts Festival Box Office, 440 Bank St., Norfolk.
The 2025 event drew attendees from 30 states and the District of Columbia, according to organizers, who anticipate record attendance in 2026.
The concert series opens Thursday, June 25, with Grammy Award winners Melissa Etheridge and Wynonna Judd.
Etheridge, known for hits including “Come to My Window” and “I’m the Only One,” rose to prominence with her confessional songwriting and distinctive vocal style. Judd first gained fame as one-half of The Judds before launching a successful solo career with songs such as “No One Else on Earth” and “To Be Loved by You.”
On Friday, June 26, Grammy Award winner Trombone Shorty and his band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, will perform as part of the “Let’s Go Get ’Em Tour,” joined by Dumpstaphunk. Trombone Shorty, born Troy Andrews, began performing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival at age 4 and later formed his own brass band at 6. Dumpstaphunk features Ivan Neville, Ian Neville and Tony Hall and is known for its New Orleans funk sound.
Saturday’s lineup is headlined by Alison Krauss & Union Station featuring Jerry Douglas. Krauss has sold more than 12 million albums and has earned 27 Grammy Awards. Douglas, a 16-time Grammy winner, is widely regarded as a leading virtuoso of the resonator guitar. Also performing is Theo Lawrence, whose music blends traditional country influences with soul, pop and rock elements.
The festival concludes Sunday with a performance by Grace Potter, known for her solo work and collaborations with artists including The Rolling Stones, Robert Plant, Bonnie Raitt and Iggy Pop.
Each year, Williamsburg Live brings nationally and internationally recognized performers to the Lawn of the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. In addition to live music, the event features food trucks, regional wines and craft beers, with seating available in the pavilion and on the lawn.
For tickets and more information, visit vafest.org/williamsburg-live.