Virginia Will Hold Special Session in Colonial Williamsburg

Lawmakers will convene in the historic Capitol to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the state's first legislative meeting.

Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Legislative Policy

Virginia Will Hold Special Session in Colonial Williamsburg

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On October 7, 2026, the Virginia General Assembly will hold a special session in the historic Capitol building in Colonial Williamsburg. The event commemorates the 250th anniversary of the legislature's initial meeting, which occurred in 1776.

Why it matters

This special session highlights the long-standing legislative heritage of Virginia by returning to the site where the state's governance traditions began. It offers the public a chance to observe the proceedings and reflect on the historical foundation of the commonwealth.

The commemorative session is scheduled for a duration of 75 minutes, beginning at 2:45 p.m. The proceedings will be available for public viewing at the Kimball Theatre, located at 428 W. Duke of Gloucester St.

The players

Virginia General Assembly

This is the legislative body of the Commonwealth of Virginia, which holds the authority to pass laws for the state.

Rev. Reginald L. Davis

He is a religious leader affiliated with the Historic First Baptist Church who will provide the invocation.

Virginia250

This organization leads the statewide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

This nonprofit institution manages the living-history museum in Williamsburg and preserves historic colonial sites.

William & Mary

This public research university in Williamsburg is the second-oldest institution of higher education in the United States.

The details

The event is hosted through a collaboration between Virginia250, The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and William & Mary. Rev. Reginald L. Davis will provide the invocation during the ceremony.

Oct. 7, 1776: The legislature's first meeting occurred in the Colonial Capitol.
October 7, 2026, 2:45 to 4 p.m.: The special commemorative session takes place.

Political Context

The special session honors the 1776 inaugural session of the Virginia General Assembly. It marks a departure from standard legislative proceedings by returning to the original Capitol site to commemorate the birth of Virginia's government.

Citizens can watch the historic session live at the Kimball Theatre. This event provides an opportunity for the public to engage directly with the state's history and observe current lawmakers in a unique commemorative setting.

The takeaway

This event bridges the gap between modern governance and the historical origins of the Virginia state legislature. It serves as a reminder of the foundational role that Colonial Williamsburg continues to play in the cultural and political identity of the commonwealth.