Potomac River Festival
The Annual Potomac River Festival kicks off with a loud and proud Firemen’s Parade around the point. The festival features Fireworks, Parades, Beauty Pageant, Live Music, Food and Craft Vendors, and Family Activities along the sandy beaches of the Potomac.
Celebrate 75 Years on the Potomac
75th Annual Potomac River Festival
June 12–14 • Colonial Beach, Virginia
Three unforgettable days of music, fireworks, parades, beaches, food, family fun, and waterfront celebration return to the shores of the Potomac River! Join thousands of visitors and locals as Colonial Beach comes alive for the 75th Annual Potomac River Festival — one of Virginia’s most beloved summer traditions.
Experience live bands and entertainment all weekend long, stroll through vibrant vendor markets filled with local art, crafts, food, and coastal favorites, and enjoy classic festival traditions including the parade, family activities, and spectacular fireworks lighting up the Potomac River.
Relax on Virginia’s second-largest public beach, enjoy waterfront dining, and discover the charm of Colonial Beach — the birthplace of unforgettable summer memories.
Celebrate America’s 250th Where History Began
This year’s festival is even more special as we celebrate the upcoming 250th Anniversary of America in the region where our nation’s story began. Located near the birthplaces of George Washington and James Monroe, Colonial Beach offers visitors the chance to experience history, patriotism, and small-town coastal charm all in one incredible weekend.
Whether you come for the music, the beach, the fireworks, or the tradition, the Potomac River Festival is your chance to celebrate summer and America together on the beautiful shores of the Potomac.
Live Music • Fireworks • Parade • Vendors • Beach Fun • Family Activities
Free to Attend
Friday June 12th – Sunday June 14th, 2026
Location
The annual Potomac River Festival takes place in downtown Colonial Beach and the boardwalk. Located on the shores of the Potomac, Colonial Beach is less than two hours from Washington, DC, Northern Virginia, and Richmond.
Participation
Join the fun at our festival, open to everyone! Dive into excitement with our parades and activities, and don’t forget your bathing suits to soak up the sun on our shoreline beaches.
Vendors
Calling all food and craft vendors! Don’t miss the chance to showcase your offerings at our historic festival. To join the excitement and connect with thousands of attendees, simply fill out our online registration form below.
Schedule of Events
Friday - June 12, 2026
7:30pm – Fireman’s Parade
Beauty Pageant after parade at Town Hill Stage
Saturday - June 13, 2026
9:00am-11:00pm – Parade registration (CBHS)
11:00am-12:00pm – Parade line-up
12:00pm – Grande Feature Parade
10:00am-5:00pm – Vendors (Boardwalk and Town Hill)
12:00-4:00pm – Kids Zone (Town Hill)
2:00pm – Pet Parade (Town Hill Stage)
3:00pm-9:00pm – Beer/Wine sales on Town Hill
5:00pm-8:00pm – Live Music on Town Hill Stage (Band TBA)
Dark – Fireworks (Town Pier)
Sunday - June 14, 2026
10:00am-4:00pm – Vendors (Boardwalk and Town Hill)
10:00am-3:00pm – Decorated Bicycle Contest
11:00am-3:00pm – Kids Zone (Town Hill)
1:00pm-4:00pm – Beer/Wine sales on Town Hill
2:00pm – River Idol and Talent Show on Stage
Event Registrations
Grand Parade Registration
Register you entry to the Grand Parade. Entries can include decorated floats, boats, cars, trucks, motorcycles, golf carts, bicycles, dance performers, marching units, or other parade worthy entries.
Craft Vendor Registration
Craft vendors interested in participating in the Potomac River Festival must complete the registration process, including submitting required documentation and fees, to secure a spot at the event.
Food Vendor Registration
Food vendors interested in participating in the Potomac River Festival must complete the registration process, including submitting required documentation and fees, to secure a spot at the event.
Lodging Options
Countdown to Potomac River Festival
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