Friday, April 11, 2025

Restaurant owners push back against Williamsburg's proposed meals tax increase

April 11, 2025

Good morning, Historic Triangle!

Rain will continue today as we head into a cool, breezy weekend.

Strong to severe thunderstorms are possible with localized flooding, wind gusts and hail, according to Meteorologist Myles Henderson of WTKR News 3.

Saturday will be cool and cloudy, with highs in the mid-50s. Sunday will warm to the 60s, but the day will be windy.

Meteorologist Myles Henderson's weekend forecast. (Photo via Facebook)

Warmer weather is in store for next week, with highs in the 70s on Monday and Tuesday.

Now to the news.

-Christin

City of Williamsburg's proposed budget includes increases to meal and lodging taxes, new admissions tax

The Cheese Shop in Williamsburg. (Photo by Christin Nielsen/The Triangle)

Williamsburg City Council members are reviewing a proposed budget that would increase the tax rates for meals and lodging and introduce a new admissions tax.

At a City Council meeting on Thursday, City Manager Andrew Trivette said his $112.3 million budget proposal is designed to accommodate funding needs for Capital Improvement Projects while supporting necessary infrastructure upgrades.

Trivette stressed that the city is facing slower growth amid economic cooling.

Under the original budget proposal, taxes on meals served by restaurants in the city would increase by 2%. Meanwhile, lodging taxes would go up by 3%. A new 10% admissions tax would be applied to all event ticket sales, with the exception of events sponsored by William & Mary.

Trivette unveiled a revised proposal on Thursday in response to some concerns expressed by council members about the tax hikes. The new proposal recommends a 1.5% meals tax increase and a 2% lodging tax increase.

The budget also calls for a spending freeze.

Proposed cuts include the elimination of 29 capital projects amounting to a total of $15.3 million. The freeze would be applied to nine city staff positions, leading to a cost savings of about $207,000, Trivette said.

Residents would also see an increase in the water rate by $1.59 per 1,000 gallons.

Trivette said the water rate adjustment is needed to address aging utility infrastructure. A total of $27.6 million is recommended to "modernize the utility system" in the city over the next 10 years.

Several departments submitted requests for additional funds, but they were all denied this year, with the exception of a 3% cost of living increase for staff, Trivette said.

The city received requests for 21 new full-time positions, but none were approved.

Two new utility positions, including an engineer and an inspector, were, however, recommended for approval. The positions would be funded by the new water rates if approved.

While no real estate rate increase is proposed in the upcoming budget, real estate assessments are projected to go up by about 4% in the coming year.

During a work session earlier in the week, council members also discussed a proposed $6.5 million downtown children's park, an idea that has ignited controversy among locals. Several residents who attended that meeting spoke out against the park, expressing concerns about noise, parking, traffic and costs.

The council unanimously agreed that funding should not be allocated for the park this year. However, Pons suggested leaving some money aside to explore possible opportunities for a future park.

More than a dozen citizens, including local restaurant owners, spoke out during the public comment section of Thursday's meeting. The speakers overwhelmingly urged the council not to move forward with the proposed meals tax increase.

Several speakers said the higher meals tax would cause local residents to take their business elsewhere.

Noreen Graziano, president of the Williamsburg Area Restaurant Association, said the increase would cause a drop in visitation and make it more difficult for already-struggling restaurants to survive. A water rate increase would further strain restauranteurs, she said.

"Local restaurants are already faced with rising food prices, increased spending for staff, decreased visitation and increased credit card fees," Graziano said. "Patrons of the restaurants are both locals and tourists. We feel the increase in the meals tax by 1.5% to 3% will drive locals out of visiting city restaurants."

Graziano said restaurant staff are already repeatedly asked about taxes on customers' receipts due to the current meals tax.

Mary Ellen Power and Tom Power, co-owners of The Cheese Shop and Fat Canary, said restaurants have already faced tremendous challenges since the Covid-19 pandemic and cannot afford more setbacks.

"As business owners in Williamsburg, we respectfully express our very strong opposition to the proposed increase to the meals tax, lodging tax and the newly created 10% admissions tax," Mary Ellen said. "It is our fear that tax increases on local residents and visitors alike will have a negative impact on the foot traffic that small, local businesses need to survive in this town."

Joy Abid, owner of Le Yaca French Restaurant, questioned the city's plans to spend $30 million on a new library, saying the subsequent meals tax increase could lead to the demise of local dining establishments.

"You're going to be putting [the restaurants] out of business because less and less people are going to come in. I've already heard from several people that they will dine outside of the city instead of dining in," Abid said.

Some of the speakers said the tax burden should be more evenly spread out among the city's residents rather than targeting the hospitality industry.

Vice Mayor Pat Dent asked citizens to continue reaching out to the council with budget feedback.

"I encourage everyone, if you have suggestions or you think there's ways that we can reduce spending in our budget, please reach out and let me know, because that's certainly what we're striving for," Dent said.

Council member Stacy Kern-Scheerer echoed Dent's comments.

"This is the time to continue to reach out to us," Kern-Scheerer said, asking residents to email board members with thoughts and ideas regarding where changes can be made.

An additional public hearing is set to take place during the May 5 work session. The budget is expected to be adopted on May 8. Citizens can email the city manager at citymanager@williamsburgva.gov or contact City Council members directly at council@williamsburgva.gov.

The full proposed budget for FY2026 can be viewed here.

WJCC Schools is accepting alternative name submissions for James Blair Middle School

James Blair Middle School. (Photo by Christin Nielsen/The Triangle)

WJCC Schools is asking the community to submit suggestions for a new name for James Blair Middle School.

During its April 1 meeting, the board reviewed recommendations and an initial report from the James Blair Middle School Renaming Consideration Committee. While the board did not decide to rename the school, it agreed to move forward with exploring alternative names.

The school is named after James Blair, a prominent Anglican minister who cofounded William & Mary. Blair also owned slaves and argued in favor of the expansion of slavery. According to the WJCC Schools' website, the school was originally founded as an all-white high school and operated during a time of "statewide, coordinated resistance" to desegregation.

Looming deadline: Citizens are invited to submit up to three suggested school names by no later than 4 p.m. on Tuesday, April 15. The board stressed that names of individuals, living or deceased, will not be considered.

What's next: The renaming committee will review the suggested names and publish a subsequent survey on Friday, April 18, to allow the community to rank the suggestions.

To submit an alternative name suggestion, click here.

Historic Jamestowne to kick off 2025 excavations with Archaeology Opening Day on Saturday

Guests surround an active archaeology site at Historic Jamestowne. (Photo by Jamestown Rediscovery)

Jamestown Rediscovery is gearing up for a busy spring season as excavations resume for 2025.

The historic site, which celebrated its 31st birthday earlier this month, will kick off its Archaeology Opening Day on April 12.

Just over 30 years ago, archaeologists found proof that the site of the 1607 James Fort was on dry land, not lost to erosion as myth had portrayed since the Civil War.

This year, archaeologists are planning to tackle several sites that are at risk of damage caused by increased flooding. The work taking place at those sites is supported by the Jamestowne Society.

Visitors who attend Opening Day events will learn how they can help save artifacts and other features at the site before they become permanently lost.

Guests will also have the opportunity to witness archaeology in action outside of the Archaearium Archaeology Museum, go on a walking tour to learn about recent discoveries and participate in a hands-on experience with real artifacts in the Ed Shed.

Want to go? For more information about Archaeology Opening Day and a schedule of events, click here.

Man faces homicide charges after fatal Yorktown crash

Hunter Nelson Arnold. (Photo courtesy of the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail)

A 22-year-old Smithfield man has been charged with felony homicide in connection to a crash in Yorktown that led to the death of two people, including a pregnant woman, last week.

Multiple charges: Hunter Nelson Arnold faces two counts of felony homicide as well as felony maiming, felony DUI, reckless failure to maintain control and reckless speeding, according to the York-Poquoson Sheriff's Office. He is currently being held at the Virginia Peninsula Regional Jail.

The crash occurred at about 8:15 p.m. on Thursday on Water Street, between Daniels Drive and the Colonial Parkway entrance. Witnesses told deputies a 2016 Dodge Challenger was traveling at a high rate of speed before it swerved out of control, crashing into a 2015 Honda fit.

Both vehicles were occupied by one driver and one passenger. The passenger of the Honda, 34-year-old Abigail Pedrosa Navarro of Williamsburg, was killed in the crash. She was six months pregnant. The passenger of the Dodge, 21-year-old James Leslie Stewart of Windsor, was also killed.

Both drivers survived but were injured. The driver of the Honda is recovering from a wound on her leg, while Arnold was hospitalized for several injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.

Crimes & Crashes

A motorcyclist died and another person was injured in a James City County crash last week. (13News Now)
An investigation is underway following a York County road rage incident. (WAVY)
A teenage boy was charged in connection with the shooting of his father at a James City County hotel. The boy's mother is also facing charges. (13News Now)
Two sisters are suing over alleged sexual abuse at a church now owned by Yorktown-based Coastal Church. (WTKR)

In the Headlines

James City County police are searching for a missing 43-year-old man who may be in need of medical assistance. (WTKR)
Newport News' April music fest will honor native icon, Ella Fitzgerald. (WHRO)
Dominion Energy is proposing $21 in monthly rate increases for Virginia residents. (WTVR)
Police are issuing warnings amid a surge in car break-ins in Virginia Beach. (WAVY)
A community garden at Thrive Peninsula is flourishing thanks to dedicated volunteers. (Daily Press)
The world's oldest gorilla is celebrating her 68th birthday. (Associated Press)

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Monday, April 7, 2025

The week ahead: Local history festivals, nature walks and more

April 7, 2025

The week ahead: Local history festivals, nature walks and more

York County History Day will return to Historic Yorktown on April 12. (Photo courtesy of York County)

From history celebrations to nature activities, this weekend will offer plenty of opportunities to enjoy springtime in the Historic Triangle.

Historic Yorktown will host York County History Day on Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The event will feature live music, military demonstrations, living history, a cannon firing and special exhibits. It is free and open to the public.

Saturday also marks the kickoff of the 2025 Yorktown Market Days season. A Go Green Market featuring special exhibitors and musical performances will be held from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

James City County is offering the community a chance to step back in time with an all-new Vintage, Visions & Vibes event this weekend, April 11 and 12. The two-day extravaganza will celebrate the area's rich history and vibrant culture.

Friday will feature a ticketed, "Dining in the Dark" experience and vintage games for ages 21+. Saturday's event, which is family-friendly, will include a vintage and collectibles market, live music, a classic car show and children's activities.

Acclaimed violin and viola duo, The Marcolivia Duo, will perform in Williamsburg on Saturday as part of the W&M Arts Quarter Music Series. The concert is free and open to the public.

Additional highlights this week include a Campfire Social at Chickahominy Riverfront Park; a River Raptors Walk, Twilight Trek and Osprey Watch at York River State Park; Lighting of the Cressets at Colonial Williamsburg and the free Phoebus 125th Anniversary Weekend.

The Food Network's renowned Great Food Truck Race is coming to Newport News with a variety of food trucks, competition and entertainment on April 7 and 8. The event is free to attend, and live national television filming will be in progress.

See below for our curated guide of events happening in and around the Historic Triangle this week, April 7 - 13.

Events This Week

Below is The Triangle's roundup of local events happening April 7-13. Click on the bolded, hyperlinked event title for additional details.

Monday, April 7

NATURE

Tyke Hike | York River State Park | This hike is perfect for little ones who are beyond crawling but aren't ready to hike with Kindergarten-age children. Included with park admission. 1:30 - 2:30 pm.

GENEALOGY

Genealogy Hour | Yorktown Library | Join a group of like-minded individuals for a genealogy presentation and informal discussion on the 1st Monday of each month. For ages 18+. Free. 6:30 - 7:30 pm.

WRITING

Tabb Library Writers' Meetup | Tabb Library | This meetup provides writers with a space to work on their projects, meet with other local writers and offer and receive critiques. Meets on the 1st and 3rd Monday of the month. Free. 6:30 - 7:45 pm.

YOGA

Community Yoga at the Watermen's Museum | Watermen's Museum | Enjoy a yoga class with beautiful views of the York River. Classes are beginner-friendly, and proceeds go to the Watermen's Museum. The April 7 theme is "Spring: Move and Flow." $10 ($5 for students). 6 - 6:50 pm.

Tuesday, April 8

Adriano Marinazzo in 2012 at Casa Buonarroti studying Michelangelo's original drawings. (Courtesy of the Muscarelle Museum of Art)

SPECIAL EVENTS

Curator's Opening Lecture: "Michelangelo: The Genesis of the Sistine" | Muscarelle Museum of Art | Exhibition curator Adriano Marinazzo will introduce "Michelangelo: The Genesis of the Sistine," sharing new insights from his extensive research on the subject. This is an encore presentation of the Muscarelle's sold-out Curator's Opening Lecture, originally presented on March 18. Tickets are required and available here. Free admission. 5 - 6 pm.

Chamber Music Society of Williamsburg: Ariel Quartet | Williamsburg Library Theatre | Enjoy a performance by Ariel Quartet, a group that has dedicated much of its artistic energy to the groundbreaking Beethoven quartets and has performed throughout the United States and Europe. Tickets for individual concerts are $30 and are available at the door (cash or check only) on a first-come, first-served basis, 15 minutes before each concert. 7:30 pm.

KIDS

Dog Man Day | Yorktown Library | Kids are invited to celebrate Dog Man with games and activities. Attendees are encouraged to dress up as their favorite superhero if they would like. This is a drop-in program for the family (drop-offs not permitted). Registration is not required. Free. 2 - 4 pm.

Creation Station | Tabb Library | This program features a creative craft hour for elementary aged children (K-5th grade). This month's theme is Reuse, Reduce, Recycle. Free. 4:30 - 5:30 pm.

DIY Fairy Gardens | James City County Library | Children are invited to create a magical miniature garden with a real succulent plant and various decorations. Space is limited. Pick up a ticket at the Youth Services desk starting 30 minutes before the program. Free. 11 am.

TEENS

Teen Tuesdays | James City County Library | Teens are invited to attend a STEAM-themed program every Tuesday. This month's topics include sewing, 3D printing and blackout poetry. For ages 13 - 18. Free. 10 am - 12 pm.

Teen Gaming Tournament | Yorktown Library | Teens are invited to test out their virtual driving skills in a Mario Kart 8 tournament on Nintendo Switch on the big screen. Winners receive prizes, and snacks will be provided for all. See the website to register. Free. 5 - 7 pm.

AUTHOR TALK

Virtual Author Talk with a Smithsonian Gardens Greenhouse Horticulturalist | Online, hosted by WRL | Smithsonian Horticulturalist Matthew Fleming will guide viewers through the secret world of trees as is revealed in his guide, "The Tree Book: The Stories, Science, and History of Trees." This event includes a Q&A with the author. Register and view virtually at libraryc.org/wrl. Free. 2 - 3 pm.

CRAFT

Welcome Spring! | Williamsburg Library | Participants will create a sign to celebrate spring using shapes from the Glowforge laser cutter. See the website for registration details. Free. 6 pm.

BINGO

BINGO Night | Tabb Library | Attend a free BINGO night featuring friendly competition and good-natured banter. The winner of each round receives a prize. This program is for adults and teens accompanied by an adult. Free. 6:30 - 7:45 pm.

HISTORY

Palace Concert | Governor's Palace | Colonial Williamsburg | Enjoy an elegant evening of chamber music featuring 17th- and 18th-century music for harpsichord, voice, flute and strings. Not appropriate for children ages 6 and under. Tickets are $19 for adults and $12 for children 12 and under. 7:30 pm.

Wednesday, April 9

KIDS

Meet the Fire Truck | City Square Plaza | Williamsburg Library | Children will see a firetruck up close and learn about fire safety. Presented by the Williamsburg Fire Department. Free. 12 - 2 pm.

Introduction to 3D Printing | Stryker Center | Children will learn the basics of 3D printing. Requires basic computer skills. Those who need help using a mouse and keyboard may need a grownup to stay with them. For ages 6 - 12. Space is limited; reserve a ticket at the Youth Services desk starting 30 minutes before the program. Free. 2 - 3:30 pm.

LITERATURE

Contemporary Fiction and the Millennial Novel | Stryker Center | Jay Jolles, doctoral candidate in American Studies at William & Mary, will discuss millennial fiction, an emerging genre of American literature. Free. 2 pm.

HISTORY

Toy Making | Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg | Stop in and make a toy inspired by the historic toys in the museum's collection. Free and open to the public. 11 - 11:45 am.

Explore the Declaration of Independence | Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg | Explore the Declaration of Independence through objects on exhibit during this guided tour. Free and open to the public. 2 - 2:45 pm.

Dancing at the Governor's Palace | Governor's Palace | Colonial Williamsburg | Dancers will discuss various types of 18th-century dances and demonstrate them for the audience. Tickets are $19 for adults, $12 for children 12 and under. Audience members will have the chance to participate at various intervals if they wish. 7:30 pm.

SCORE WORKSHOP

Start & Manage a Non-Profit Organization | Williamsburg Library | Learn about a variety of topics relevant to starting and managing a nonprofit organization in this workshop led by SCORE. Free; advance registration is required. 5:30 pm.

WELLNESS

Journey Drumming Meditation | Freedom Park | Embark on a transformative meditative journey powered by the rhythm of drums. All are welcome. For ages 13+. $8. 6 - 7 pm.

Thursday, April 10

NATURE

Stream to Sea Stroll | York River State Park | Hike to a small woodland and marsh stream, freshwater pond and saltwater river. Included with park admission. 10 am - 12 pm.

KIDS

"Hatchet" Escape Room | James City County Library | Kids ages 9+ are invited to participate in an escape room challenge based on Gary Paulsen's classic survival story. Sessions start at 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reserve a ticket at the Youth Services Desk starting 30 minutes before the chosen time slot. Free. 1 - 4 pm.

Minecraft Mania | Tabb Library | Kids are invited to build, craft and celebrate Minecraft. This program is designed for children and accompanying adults. Free. 2 - 3:30 pm.

HISTORY

Poetry & Art | Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg | Attend a family-friendly tour exploring the galleries and connecting objects on exhibit to favorite poems. Then, enjoy a poetry-writing activity. Free and open to the public. 2 - 2:45 pm.

The Public Hospital of 1773 | Colonial Williamsburg | Learn about the historic Public Hospital in Williamsburg and how the treatment of patients changed over time at the facility. Free and open to the public. 3:30 - 5 pm.

FILM

Throwback Thursday Film Series: "Moneyball" | Williamsburg Library Theatre | This series screens classic films for an adult audience. The theme for April is Patron Requests, and this week's featured film week's feature is Moneyball (2011, PG-12). 2hrs 13 min. See the trailer here. Free. 2 pm.

Celtic Film Series: "The Boxer" | Williamsburg Library Theatre | The Celtic Film Series at Williamsburg Library Theatre runs the 2nd Thursday of each month through May 2025. This month's feature is "The Boxer" (1997). Free. 1hr 53min. 6 - 8 pm.

LIVE MUSIC

Organ Recital: Cheryl Van Ornam | Bruton Parish Church | Enjoy music of the French baroque presented by organist Cheryl Van Ornam of First Baptist Church in Richmond. Free; freewill donations gratefully accepted. 8 - 9 pm.

Friday, April 11

York River State Park will host an Osprey Watch program on April 11. (Photo by Alexa Heinrich via Pexels)

BOOKS

Natural Readers: A Walking Outdoor Book Group | Freedom Park Interpretive Center | Walk one of the Freedom Park trails while discussing William W. Warner's Beautiful Swimmers, a Pulitzer Prize-winning book about the culture and economy built around the life of the blue crab. This group meets on the second Friday of each month. Free. 10 am.

NATURE

Osprey Watch | York River State Park | See majestic osprey and discover their role in the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem. Included with park admission. 10 am - 12 pm.

KIDS

Sunflowers Feed Birds, Bees, Butterflies, and Mammals | Williamsburg Library | Children ages 7-12 will discover how sunflower plants help wildlife. They'll then take home seeds to grow their own sunflowers. Free. 2 pm.

Once Upon a Cuento | Yorktown Library | Children will enjoy a story, songs, craft and other activities. This program is designed for children starting with the basics as well as those looking to practice their knowledge of the Spanish language. Designed for children and accompanying adults. For ages 0 - 3 months to 10. Register online. Free. 10:15 - 11 am.

Spring Cardmaking | Stryker Center | Kids are invited to drop in for an afternoon of creative cardmaking. Supplies will be available to make personalized cards for a variety of occasions. No registration needed. Free. 3 pm.

Take Your Kid Fishing | Little Creek Reservoir | Learn the fundamentals of fishing from park staff while enjoying a beautiful sunset. All equipment is provided. For ages 5-12. Free. 5 - 7 pm.

LIVE MUSIC

Friday Night Live: Scott Varney | The Virginia Beer Company | VBC's Friday Night Live Spring Concert Series returns on April 11 with Scott Varney. 6 - 9 pm.

Saturday, April 12

Yorktown Market Days returns for its 2025 season with a Go Green Market on April 12. (Photo courtesy of York County)

SPECIAL EVENTS

Yorktown Market Days: Go Green Market | Riverwalk Landing | This special market includes free reusable bags, special exhibitors with a limited supply of free giveaways and engaging children's activities. Local vendors will be selling unique artwork, fresh produce, baked goods and more. Free admission. 9 am - 12 pm.

Spring into Conservation | Freedom Park | This public educational event features tables and information about what you and your family can do to best care for our environment, starting in your own home. There will be giveaways, crafts and children's activities. All ages. Free. 9 am - noon.

York County History Day | Watermen's Museum | Celebrate the history of York County. This special event highlights the American Revolution and Civil War. There will be music, military demonstrations, crafts, food and more at the Watermen's Museum and York Hall. Free. 10 am - 4 pm.

River Raptors Walk | York River State Park | Discover the majestic bald eagles, red shouldered hawks, red tailed hawks and osprey who make their home in the park year-round. Included with park admission. 10 am - 12 pm.

Campfire Social | Chickahominy Riverfront Park | Celebrate spring with a good old-fashioned campfire gathering featuring s'mores, activities, storytelling and more around the campfire. All ages. Free. 7 - 8 pm.

Memphis Gold Blues: Otis Redding Tribute | Kimball Theatre | This evening program features high-energy blues with Chester Chandler of Memphis Gold as he pays tribute to Otis Redding along with special guests Bobby BlackHat, Ms. Zeno the Mojo Queen, and Zach T. Brown. Tickets are $40. 7 pm.

Freedom Park Full Moon Hikes: Pink Moon | Freedom Park | Explore the park after dark. Multiuse Trail 3 will remain open after sunset for a self-guided hike. Bug spray and a flashlight are recommended. No registration required. Weather permitting. All ages. Free. 7:45 - 8:45 pm.

Twilight Trek | York River State Park | Discover the wonders of a fossil beach after dark. Interpretive rangers will lead a hike to this location and discuss the fossils within York River State Park. Registration required; call the park office for reservations. Bring a flashlight or headlamp. Included with park admission. 8 - 9:30 pm.

Lighting of the Cressets | Colonial Williamsburg | Historic Duke of Gloucester Street will come to life with lighted cressets and strolling musicians. Free and open to the public. 8 - 10 pm.

KIDS

Saturdays @ Frink: Lego Build Tournament | Abram Frink Jr. Community Center | Kids will show off their Lego building skills in this tournament. The competition begins at 11 am; other interactive activities will be held between 10 am - 1 pm. Free.

Teeny Tiny Farm | Tabb Library | This family-friendly event features opportunities to meet and pet adorable animals. There will also be tasty treats available for purchase from the Get Cheesy and Dough Haus food trucks, a Used Book Sale (1 - 4 pm) and craft activities. Free. 1 - 3 pm.

Egg Decorating | Stryker Center | Children are invited to stop by the Stryker Center to paint, draw and decorate plastic eggs. Free. 1 - 4 pm.

MARKET

Williamsburg Farmers Market | Merchants Square | The Williamsburg Farmers Market, founded in 2002, features the finest Virginia-grown and Virginia-made produce, plants and products. The event also features live music and children's programming. Free admission. 8 am - 12 pm.

TEENS

Teen Buttons and Origami | Tabb Library | Middle and high school students are invited to drop by Tabb Library for button making and origami. No registration needed. Free. 11 am - 12 pm.

Teen Ice Cream Making | James City County Library | Teens ages 13 - 18 will learn to make ice cream and will make a few flavors to try. Free. 1 - 2 pm.

MUSIC

Historic Organ Recital: Thomas Marshall | Enjoy music featuring the Historic English Chamber, one of Colonial Williamsburg's 18th-century instruments. This recital features Thomas Marshall, organist at Williamsburg United Methodist Church. Free; freewill donations gratefully accepted. 10 - 10:30 am.

W&M Arts Quarter Music Series: Marcolivia Duo | Music Arts Center, Concert Hall | Attend a concert featuring The Marcolivia Duo (violin/viola). Based in the D.C. area, the group has been featured numerous times on NPR's Performance Today and Front Row Washington. Free and open to the public. 7:30 pm.

Organ & Trumpet Recital | Bruton Parish Church | Enjoy a unique recital of Music of Space, honoring the 55th anniversary of Apollo 13. Free; freewill donations gratefully accepted. 8 - 9 pm.

Sunday, April 13

ART & MUSIC

2nd Sundays Art & Music Festival | Downtown Williamsburg | Virginia's almost year-round arts and streets festival is held on the second Sunday of every month from 11 am to 4 pm. The event features unique arts, handcrafts and live music in a family-friendly atmosphere. Free admission.

KIDS

Beanbag Book Club | James City County Library | Children will read, craft and play games centered on the book "Ada Lace, on the Case" by Emily Calandrelli. For ages 5 – 8. Reserve a ticket at the Youth Services desk starting 30 minutes before the program. Free. 1:30 pm.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Rhythm Revolution: Outdoor Drum Fitness | Veterans Park | Participate in an innovative and immersive fitness experience set in the great outdoors. This unique class combines the power of drumming, invigorating workouts and wireless headphones. See the website to register. For ages 13+. Free. 2 - 3 pm.

LIVE MUSIC

VBC Storytellers | The Virginia Beer Company | This 9-week music series allows guests to get up close and personal with local singers/songwriters as they play their music and talk about the stories behind their songs and albums. This week marks the final concert in the series, featuring Joe Heilman. 3 - 6 pm.

Multi-Day

SPECIAL EVENTS

S.T.E.A.M. Fest at the Airport | Waltrip Williamsburg Executive Airport | Williamsburg | Children are invited to celebrate the art of kite making, learn about the science of kite flight and experience international tales. This program will be held daily, Monday - Saturday, with a new continent of focus each day. Free. 10 am - 12 pm.

Vintage, Visions & Vibes | Jamestown Beach Event Park | April 11, 5:30 - 11 pm & April 12, 11 am - 5:30 pm | Step back in time at the Vintage Visions & Vibes Festival, a two-day extravaganza celebrating the rich history and vibrant culture of James City County. Friday will feature a "Dining in the Dark" experience for ages 21+ and vintage games. Saturday will feature a vintage and collectibles market, live music performances, a classic car show, a kids' zone and more. The Friday event requires a ticket, which can be purchased here. There is a $5 parking fee per car for the Saturday event.

Phoebus 125th Anniversary Weekend | April 11 - 13 | Phoebus is hosting a weekend of events in celebration of its 125th anniversary, including an Opening Night with a special proclamation and live music (5 - 9 pm), a Saturday Beer Fest and Craft Market (10 am - 6 pm) and a Closing Day featuring a car show, live DJs and community competitions (1 - 6 pm). Free and open to the public.

Great Food Truck Race | Newport News | The Food Network's renowned Great Food Truck Race is making its way to Newport News, bringing an exciting blend of food, competition, and entertainment to the heart of the community. The event will take place in two locations. On Monday, April 7, food trucks will be stationed at Port Warwick. On April 8, the event moves to Victory Landing Park. The event is free to attend at both locations and runs from 11 am to 5 pm on both days.

1st Rhode Island Living History Program | Yorktown Battlefield Visitors Center | Living history reenactors of the 1st Rhode Island Infantry Regiment will offer perspectives on the American Revolution. Saturday, April 12, 9 am - 5 pm & Sunday, April 13, 9 am - 3 pm.

Tick Awareness Week | Walkabout Outfitter | 402 W Duke of Gloucester Street | April 4 - 17 | Stop by Walkabout to Learn about the dangers of ticks and the prevention of tick-borne diseases.

Harvey | Williamsburg Players | 200 Hubbard Lane | March 28 - April 13 | This play tells the tale of Harvey, an imaginary six-and-a-half-foot rabbit. Tickets are $22 for adults, $12 for children and students.

Williamsburg ReStore 13th Anniversary Sale | Williamsburg ReStore will host a weeklong sale, April 7 - 12, to celebrate its anniversary. See the website for details. 9 am - 6 pm daily.

TAX ASSISTANCE

Williamsburg AARP Tax-Aide Tax Assistance | Williamsburg & James City County Libraries | Greater Williamsburg Tax-Aide provides free tax counseling, preparation and filing service to taxpayers with low to moderate income, with special attention to those aged 60 and older. The program is operating out of both the downtown Scotland St. library location and the County library on Croaker Road. Appointments can be made online or by phone. Walk-ins are also welcome as schedules allow. Appointments are available at Williamsburg Library (757-354-1260) Monday - Saturday and James City County Library (757-561-0545) on Monday, Thursday and Saturday, Feb. 1 - April 15. Free.

This newsletter was written by Christin Nielsen. Thanks for reading!

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🖥️ Visit The Triangle's website to read previous newsletters.

📧 To reach out, email christin@thetriangle.news or reply to this email.