Batteau Fest
Get ready for a summer highlight! The 41st Annual James River Batteau Festival returns on June 17, 19, and 20 at Percival’s Island and Riverfront Park.
Kick off the festivities on Wednesday with a unique historical experience during the Batteau Experience Ride. Start the weekend strong at the Launch Party on Friday, featuring live music from the Hackensaw Boys. On Saturday, celebrate the 250th Anniversary of America’s Independence with the ceremonial batteau launch, “Forward to Freedom,” followed by art, culture, and hands-on activities for all ages.
All events are free to attend, so come one, come all! If you are a vendor interested in hosting a booth or demonstration at the festival, please see the information at the bottom of the page.
Wednesday, June 17 | 10:00am–6:00pm
Riveredge Park
Batteau Experience Rides
- Ages 50+ | 10:00am–1:00pm | REGISTRATION REQUIRED
- All Ages | 2:00pm–6:00pm | WALK-UP ONLY
Join us aboard The Addie Beth and the rest of the batteau fleet for a unique 30-minute educational ride and tour of the James River, hosted by the James River Association. Morning rides are reserved for those ages 50 and older and require pre-registration. Afternoon rides are open to all ages. Enjoy lunch on your own at the food truck on-site! Meet at Riveredge Park in Madison Heights. Those aged 50 and older should register for the morning rides by June 14.
Tour Times for Ages 50+
- Group 1: 10:00am
- Group 2: 10:40am
- Group 3: 11:20am
- Group 4: 12:00pm
- Group 5: 12:40pm
The crews will take a lunch break and return at 2:00pm for rides for the general public (walk-up only). Walk-up rides are available for all ages from 2:00pm–6:00pm.
Please note, riders must be able to transport themselves down the concrete boat ramp and take a knee-high step (assisted) into the boat. If you require accommodations or additional support for boarding, please contact Hannah.Rathje@lynchburgva.gov to determine the best plan for a safe experience for both crew and riders.
Food trucks will be on-site throughout the rides.
Friday, June 19 | 6:00pm–9:00pm
Percival’s Island
Batteau Launch Party
Join us as we kick off the 41st Annual Batteau Festival with a celebration like no other! This exciting Launch Party will set the stage for a week filled with history, adventure, and river culture. Enjoy an evening of live entertainment featuring the one and only Hackensaw Boys!
Whether you’re a longtime festival-goer or new to the Batteau experience, this launch party is the perfect way to dive into the spirit of the festival. Don’t miss out on this celebration of heritage, community, and the James River!
Event Details:
- No registration is required for attendees.
- Doors open at 5:00pm; the show starts at 6:00pm.
- Food and beverage vendors will be on site.
- No outside alcohol is permitted.
- Please, no glass containers.
- No seating will be provided; please bring a lawn chair or blanket for your comfort. Chairs must not have awnings or umbrellas that impede the view of other audience members.
Saturday, June 20 | 10:00am–1:00pm
Percival’s Island & Riverfront Park
Official Batteau Launch & Forward to Freedom Celebration
Celebrate the 250th Anniversary of America’s Independence and the 50th Anniversary of the James River Association on the banks of the James River, where history, heritage, and outdoor adventure come together. The festival begins with the highly anticipated batteau launch at 10:00am. Watch as these historic, handcrafted boats set off down the river, continuing a tradition that has honored our waterways for over four decades.
After the boats depart, keep the celebration going by exploring art, culture, and hands-on activities that showcase the James River’s enduring role in our community and our nation’s story. This is a day of history, heritage, and celebration. Don’t miss your chance to participate in this incredible tradition and the milestone anniversary of our freedom.
Event Details:
- Attendance is free, and no registration is required.
- If you are interested in becoming a vendor, please see the information at the bottom of this page.
Call for Vendors
Applications (and any required fees) must be submitted by Sunday, May 24. Applicants will be notified of their approval status within 10 business days of submission.
Join us for the Official Batteau Launch & Forward to Freedom Celebration. This event will extend from Riverfront Park, along the Riverwalk Trail, to the batteau launch site. In recognition of the 250th Anniversary of the Signing of the Declaration of Independence, this celebration will focus on the theme “Forward to Freedom.”
We are primarily looking for historical artisans, reenactors, demonstrators, and educators, as well as vendors with an environmentally focused mission or product. Standard booth spaces are approximately 12’ x 12’, with limited larger spaces available. Priority for larger spaces will be given to demonstrators and educators. Vendors must be fully set up at least 15 minutes before the event begins.
Want to Join the Batteaux on Their Journey to Richmond?
Lynchburg Parks and Recreation is excited to start the festivities for this year’s James River Batteau Festival while the boats are in the city. Once they depart, all festivities will be managed by the Virginia Canals and Navigations Society. Learn more about the schedule, camping, and what to expect here: Virginia Canals and Navigations Society. Canoeists and kayakers are welcome!
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