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
Colonial Beach, Virginia
Schedule of Events
Potomac River Festival • June 12–14, 2026
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7:30 PMFireman's Parade
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After ParadeBeauty Pageant — Town Hill Stage
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9:00 AM – 11:00 AMParade Registration (CBHS)
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11:00 AM – 12:00 PMParade Line-Up
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12:00 PMGrande Feature Parade
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10:00 AM – 5:00 PMVendors — Boardwalk & Town Hill
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12:00 PM – 4:00 PMKids Zone — Town Hill
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2:00 PMPet Parade — Town Hill Stage
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3:00 PM – 9:00 PMBeer & Wine Sales — Town Hill
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4:00 PM – 7:00 PMLive Radio Broadcast with Prize Giveaways
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5:00 PM – 8:00 PMLive Music — Town Hill Stage (Band TBA)
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After DarkFireworks — Town Pier
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10:00 AM – 4:00 PMVendors — Boardwalk & Town Hill
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10:00 AM – 3:00 PMDecorated Bicycle Contest
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11:00 AM – 3:00 PMKids Zone — Town Hill
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1:00 PM – 4:00 PMBeer & Wine Sales — Town Hill
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2:00 PMRiver Idol & Talent Show — Stage
Live Broadcast - Saturday 4-7pm
Come see Southern Maryland's own T-Bone and Heather
Spin the wheel for free prizes - Get on the air with your favorite DJs
Grande Feature Parade
Saturday, June 13 at 12pm
Parade starts at Noon on 1st Street. The parade route is 1st Street, Jackson Street, Colonial Avenue, Washington Avenue, Harthorne Street, Taylor Street, ending at Town Hill
Free Trolley Rides
Free Trolley Rides throughout the Weekend. Explore all of Colonial Beach
Hop on, hop off, and explore everything Colonial Beach has to offer — from beaches and restaurants to shops, breweries, marinas, parks, and local attractions!
🕚 2026 Operating Hours:
☀️ Saturday & Sunday • 11AM–7PM
Memorial Day through Labor Day:
Saturday, Sunday & Monday • 11AM–7PM
July 4th Weekend:
Friday, Saturday & Sunday • 11AM–7PM
Skip the parking hassle, ride in style, and enjoy the beach town experience all season long!
Thank you to our amazing local sponsors and partners who help keep the trolley FREE for residents and visitors alike.
Ride • Explore • Shop • Dine • Enjoy Colonial Beach!
Event Registrations
Grande Parade, River Idol & Talent Show, Merchandise Vendor, and Food Vendor
Grande Parade Registration
Register you entry to the Grande Parade. Entries can include decorated floats, boats, cars, trucks, motorcycles, golf carts, bicycles, dance performers, marching units, or other parade worthy entries.
River Idol & Talent Show Registration
Join us on Town Hill for a NEW & EXCITING addition to the 75th Annual Potomac River Festival! Do you have the talent to win the competition?
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.
Sold Out
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.
Sold Out
Stay Longer - Experience More
Experience Historic Inns and Bed & Breakfasts, Waterfront Motels, and Quaint Cottages with one of our Lodging Partners
Countdown to Potomac River Festival
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