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

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 02, 2026
Contact: Starr Anderson, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 540-460-1540, starr.anderson@dcr.virginia.gov

James River State Park hosts Batteaux & Banjos Festival this June

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Batteaux and Banjos Festival)

GLADSTONE, Va. – James River State Park is excited to announce the return of the Batteaux and Banjos Festival, a celebration of the James River’s rich cultural history and the traditional batteaux that once carried goods along its waters.

This year’s festival will take place June 20-June 22, inviting visitors of all ages to enjoy a weekend of bluegrass and folk music, historical interpretation, outdoor recreation and more in the heart of Buckingham County.

Festival highlights include:

Blacksmiths
Live music
Period camps
Pig roast demonstration
Evening dance
Sunday church service
And more

The batteaux (boats) are anticipated to pass the park on Monday, June 22.

Admission to the festival is free; however, the standard parking fee applies. To learn more, please go to www.virginiastateparks.gov/jamesriver-events.

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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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