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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 20, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

Natural Bridge State Park hosts special VA250 event

NATURAL BRIDGE, Va. – Natural Bridge State Park invites the community to celebrate Thomas Jefferson’s birthday and America’s 250th anniversary with A Most Sublime Birthday on April 11, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will take place along the scenic Cedar Creek Trail at the historic Natural Bridge, once owned by Jefferson himself.

This family-friendly celebration highlights Jefferson’s legacy as the author of the Declaration of Independence and his connection to one of Virginia’s most iconic natural landmarks. Visitors can enjoy hands-on activities inspired by history, science and early American life.

Visitors will have the opportunity to

Try quill writing
Decode messages at a spy station
Learn how Saltpeter Cave contributed to gunpowder production
Participate in a ranger-led experiment demonstrating how the Natural Bridge formed
And more

Participants who complete activity stations will earn a prize. Birthday cake and ice cream will be available while supplies last.

“As we honor America’s 250th birthday, this event offers a fun and meaningful way to celebrate our region's ties to our nation’s earliest chapters,” said Park Manager Jim Jones. “Natural Bridge continues to be a place where history, nature and community come together.”

All activities are included with regular park admission: $9 for adults (13 and older) and $6 for children (12 and younger). The event is sponsored by the Friends of Natural Bridge State Park and Rockbridge Area Tourism.

For more information, please call 540-291-1326 or go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/natural-bridge.

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About Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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