WILLIAMSBURG — Williamsburg Live, the Virginia Arts Festival’s annual summer concert series kickoff, returns to the lawn of the Colonial Williamsburg Art Museum this weekend.
“It’s going to be impossible not to have a good time with these pop culture legends,” said Virginia Arts Festival Executive Director Robert W. Cross. “And Williamsburg Live is like no other festival: the charm of the historic setting, the soft summer nights of coastal Virginia, and the nearby wineries, breweries and farm-to-table restaurant scene make this an unforgettable experience.”
WYDaily has compiled a list of what you need to know before you head out to the lawn.
Shuttle Bus Service
Shuttle Bus Service is available through both Oleta and the Colonial Williamsburg buses. The Oleta shuttle runs from the Colonial Williamsburg Visitors Center group tour terminal and will drop guests off at the corner of Prince George and Henry Streets. Oleta shuttles will run from 4:30-6:30 p.m. and 8-11 p.m.
Colonial Williamsburg Shuttle Bus routes begin at the Visitors Center and run throughout the Historic Area. Stops include the Governor’s Palace, the Capitol, the Taverns, Market House, Williamsburg Lodge, the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg, and Merchants Square. Buses pass each stop approximately every 15 minutes. Williamsburg Live guests should depart the bus at the Merchants Square stop. Colonial Williamsburg shuttles will run Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Parking at the visitors center is $10.
Food and Drink
No glass, coolers, picnic baskets or outside food or beverages are allowed, but each guest may bring in one factory-sealed bottle of water.
Food trucks will be on-site, including Amma’s Curry in a Hurry, Avocargo, Ben & Jerry’s, Clara’s Ice Cold Lemonade, Dominion Dogs, Everbowl, Hot and Fresh Grill, Joysicles, Old City BBQ and Smoothie Stand.
Venue Policies
Age-verified wristbands will be given out upon entry to the venue for the purchase of alcohol. A valid ID must be presented upon entry to receive a wristband.
Children under 13 are not permitted without a parent or guardian. All children must have a ticket to the concert to attend and no babies in arms will be allowed in the tent.
Smoking is allowed in designated smoking areas on site.
Seating on the lawn is first-come, first-served. Blankets are allowed on the lawn, as are folding chairs. Chair leg height may not exceed 17 inches.
All patrons are subject to search, which may include metal detectors and/or the use of hand wands. In addition, all bags, purses, blankets, and personal items are subject to inspection.
Inclement Weather
Performances will be presented rain or shine, but in the case of severe storms, it is possible that the concert will be delayed. Any delay or postponement will be made by the artist and venue management, and all announcements regarding weather delay will be made from the stage and via the Virginia Arts Festival website and social media platforms. Only in a rare event will a concert be canceled.
Prior to the concert, check the Virginia Arts Festival Facebook page or Twitter page for any updates. During the concert, any weather-related messages would be conveyed on-site via loudspeakers and online via social media.
Due to the lack of structural shelters at Williamsburg Live, if and when it has been determined the venue must be evacuated, patrons must exit the grounds and seek safe shelter until notified by the Virginia Arts Festival staff, website or social media.
Prohibited Items
The following items are prohibited at the festival:
- Flammable lanterns, candles, fireworks or any types of explosives or fire of any kind
- Glass, coolers, picnic baskets or outside food or beverages, except for one factory-sealed water bottle per person. *Empty non-glass drinkware allowed.
- Illegal drugs (of any kind)
- Hula hoops, frisbees, balls
- Inflatables (beach balls, balloons, chairs, sofas, etc.)
- Laser pens or pointers
- Musical instruments, noise-making devices
- Pets, except service animals
- Selfie sticks pointed at the stage or artists
- Signs and/or posters
- Skateboards, scooters, hoverboards, bikes, skates, or any wheeled devices other than ADA-compliant modes
- Tables
- Umbrellas over 12 inches in length (closed)
- Small umbrellas for inclement weather only are permitted; however, they are not allowed to be used during performances for shade as it interferes with the enjoyment of others.
- Weapons, including toys or play items made to resemble weapons
For the most up-to-date information, visit vafest.org/williamsburg-live.