Springtime in Yorktown brings a definite shift in the weather. The rains come in (not to mention the pollen) and the flowers come up! Whether indoors or outdoors, there’s a lot to experience during this season. Yorktown has a bounty of historical, cultural and natural beauty that is in perfect bloom.

Sometimes, though, while waiting for the local flora to awaken, days can be pretty rainy. No worries! Here are some lovely ways to spend a rainy day in Yorktown:

-Check out some antiques at the Cozy Cottage just up route 17. It’s the perfect place to find some truly unique pieces, maybe a souvenir or two!

-Spend an afternoon at On the Hill Gallery to view local artistry, or maybe take a class!

-Coffee shops are made for rainy days. Stop in at Mobjack Bay and get the full coffee experience. And for you tea drinkers, there’s a lovely selection and even a full tea service.

-Soak up a bit of the local history by going to a museum! The Archaearium at Jamestown, for example, is one of the best day trips for a rainy day. There’s so much to see!

-Of course, you can always take advantage of our delightful living room or sunroom at the Inn. Listen to the rain with a good book or conversation, it’s the best way to slow down and enjoy the day.

Before long, though, these showers will reap a beautiful, sweet-smelling harvest! We’ve compiled some of our favorite gardens in the area, as well as upcoming events. Here’s how to get out there and see the best of natural Virginia!

-We’re so excited for Virginia’s Historic Garden Week from April 27-May 4, that’s right around the corner! There are lots of events throughout the Historic Triangle and Hampton Roads, the perfect excuse to get out and enjoy the beautiful breeze and blooms!

-Williamsurg Botanical Garden: This hidden gem is just up the Colonial Parkway and offers a quiet oasis in the middle of historic Williamsburg.

-Busch Gardens Williamsburg: There’s a reason “gardens” is in the name! An ever-popular tourist attraction, Busch Gardens has been named the world’s most beautiful theme park, and definitely doesn’t disappoint!

-Norfolk Botanical Garden: It’s a bit of a hike, but well worth the trip! Just across the water is an incredible collection of all kinds of plants. Pack a picnic and make a day of it!

-Don’t forget, you can always book a Yorktown Garden Stroll to visit 10 private gardens and historic homes. Why not get some history with your garden walk?

Whether rainy or sunny, there’s always adventures to be had in historic Yorktown. How do you like to celebrate your spring? Let us know!

Today officially marks the first day of spring! Huzzah!

All of us here in Yorktown are gearing up for another fabulous warm season. And what better way to enjoy all that this culturally rich area has to offer than by seeking out the arts! We’ve gathered all the artistic happenings throughout the Historic Triangle this spring to make sure you get your fill of creativity and inspiration, all with a dose of local history of course!

Music: Here’s a collection of concerts that’s sure to make your ears ring and hearts sing!

-April 3: VSO (Virginia Symphony Orchestra) String Quartet as part of the Ewell Concert Series

-April 7: William and Mary’s Botetourt Chamber Singers Spring Concert in the beautiful Wren Building

-April 27: W&M Choral Combined Spring Concerts at the historic Williamsburg Presbyterian Church

-May 5, 7, 9: Opera in Williamsburg’s Spring production, Mozart’s The Magic Flute at the Kimball Theater

Fine Arts: Feast your eyes on these breathtaking galleries and events!

-Williamsburg Contemporary Art Center: check out their rotating exhibits including the Textile Extravaganza Show on March 19 – April 5

-On the Hill Gallery: come see a solo show by Holland Wentz Etheridge on a Study in Light and Dark all throughout April

-The Gallery at York Hall: this fixture of Yorktown always has art on display, plus a Quilts Exhibit on April 14 and Art at the River on May 5

-Jamestown Arts Center: their current exhibit is “Cut and Paste: Collage Today”

-April 28: Art on the Square in Merchants Square, Williamsburg

Theater: Unleash your inner thespian with these local performances!

-March 21-24: An Evening of Dance by William and Mary students and the Orchesis Modern Dance Company

-April 13: a Poetry Month Event at the Jamestown Arts Center, full of readings and creative opportunities

-May 3: Mr. Jefferson’s Garden Party on the Governor’s Palace Green, complete with Shakespearean monologues by Broadway and television actor Steven Skybell

Now that your calendar is stocked with this wonderful list of arts and events, comment below to let us know what you’re most looking forward to enjoying this spring!

February in Yorktown can be cold and grey, and while the views and walks are spectacular, sometimes all you want to do is cozy up with a comforting drink. Here are three unique recipes to tide you over to spring!

First up, here is an anti-inflammatory Healing Apple Hot Toddy recipe by Felicia Lim:

4 cups apple cider
1 cup sliced oranges + more for garnish
½ cup fresh cranberries + more for garnish
3 sprigs rosemary + more for garnish
4 t lemon juice
1 T thinly peeled and sliced ginger
2 cinnamon sticks + more for garnish
1 t honey
2 t ground cinnamon
2 t coconut sugar

Combine the apple cider, orange slices, fresh cranberries, rosemary, lemon juice, ginger slices, and cinnamon sticks in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat down to low. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the cranberries begin to pop and soften.
While the tea is brewing, spread the honey onto the rims of the glasses. Mix the ground cinnamon and coconut sugar in a shallow bowl, then dip the rims of the glasses to fully coat.
When the tea is ready, evenly divide into each glass. Garnish with an extra sprig of rosemary, a cinnamon stick, fresh cranberries, and an orange slice.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Next up is a Maple Pine Chai recipe by Madeline Long:

*NOTE: refer to this site before ingesting wild plants*

For 2
1 cup water
2 chai tea bags (my favorite is Yogi tea)
½ cup chopped white pine needles*
1 ½ cups milk (or almond milk + 2 t coconut oil for creaminess)
1 teaspoon chai spice*
dash of cinnamon
2-3 tablespoons maple syrup (or to desired sweetness)
pinch of salt

Chai spice:
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon cardamom
½ teaspoon nutmeg
¼ teaspoon cloves
Dash of pepper

In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add the pine needles and tea bags, and steep for 10 minutes. Remove the tea bags, and pour the tea through a sieve to strain the pine needles from the liquid.
Return liquid to saucepan, and pour in milk of choice. Heat through with spices, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt.
To froth, pour liquid into a blender and blend on high for 1 minute. Close your eyes.
Imagine sitting on the forest floor with a bottom full of pine needles.

Finally, here’s a bit of a switch-up: Cinnamon-Infused Cold Brew Coffee from Baking Bites:

2 cups whole bean medium-dark roast coffee
2 three-inch cinnamon sticks
4 1/2 cups water, cold or at room temperature

Grind the coffee to a medium grind and pour grounds into a large pitcher. Break cinnamon sticks in half and add to grounds. Pour in water and stir a few times to ensure that the grounds are evenly moistened.
Cover pitcher and place in the refrigerator. Allow mixture to steep for 12-16 hours, then filter out the grounds and cinnamon sticks using a large coffee filter. Store in the refrigerator until ready to use.
When serving, dilute with a 1:2.5 ratio of coffee-to-water.

Serves 6-8

Spring is just around the corner! Now that you have some great ideas to make the end of winter more enjoyable, let us know how YOU like to spend your February!

The new year has finally rung in, and everyone here in Yorktown is looking forward to another great year of history, art, music and fun! So whether you are planning this year’s trip to the Historic Triangle or are an adventure-seeking local, here’s 19 special dates to look forward to in 2019…

-January 31 to March 7 (Thursdays): Cabin Fever Concert Series at the Freight Shed

-April 13: Market Days begins! The weekly waterside farmer’s market continues every Saturday.

-April 20: The Sister Cities annual French Market

-April 27-28:Market Days- Pirates Invade Yorktown

-April 28: the 56th annual Art On the Square on Duke of Glouchester Street

-May 5: Art at the River at Riverwalk Landing

-May 10: Yorktown Plant Sale Presented by Celebrate Yorktown Committee

-May 11: Market Days- annual Fitness Market

-June 6, 13, 20 & 27  (Thursdays): Sounds of Summer Concert Series at Riverwalk Landing

-July 4: The complete Independence Day Celebration, starting with a 5k through River Street and ending with fireworks!

-August 31: A free concert given by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra, featuring the historic Fifes and Drums of Yorktown

-September 29: Yorktown Art Stroll along Water Street

-October 5: Yorktown Wine Festival at Riverwalk Landing

-October 12: Yorktown’s Fall Festival

-October 19: Yorktown Day, a great chance to see historic sites, ceremonies and the annual parade

-October 26: Market Days- Paws at the River. Bring your four-legged friend!

-November 2: Market Days- York County Vintage Marketplace

-December 6: The annual Yorktown Christmas Tree Lighting

-December 7: Christmas Market on Main, the ultimate Christmas decoration, right on Main Street

It’s gearing up to be another great year here in Yorktown! Which event are you most looking forward to?

There’s only two weeks left in 2018, but there’s still so many ways to soak up the holiday spirit while exploring Virginia’s beautiful Historic Triangle. Here are some lovely ways to help usher in Christmas and ring in the New Year!

WATCH: Beautiful displays of lights and artwork:

–Garden of Lights at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens

–Celebration in Lights at Newport News Park

–“Christmas in Yorktown” Exhibit at the Gallery at York Hall

–Miracle of Christmas-Live at the Zoo at the Metro Richmond Z00

LEARN: A historical step into Christmases past:

–Christmastide in Virginia at Jamestown Settlement and American Revolution Museum at Yorktown

–An Evening with Thomas Jefferson at King’s Arms Tavern in Williamsburg

–Miss Molly Campbell’s Holiday Tea at Christiana Campbell’s Tavern in Williamsburg

DINE: Fun food-filled experiences that educate and satiate:

–Holiday Tea at the Williamsburg Inn

Several events at Colonial Williamsburg’s Taste Studio:

Holiday Cocktails: A Great Reason for a Toast

Holiday Sweets: Gingerbread, Peppermint and Eggnog

Holiday Sweets: Cakes and Pies

Last but not least, consider the Williamsburg Inn’s New Year’s Eve Dinner and Gala to help bring in 2019 with a bang!

With so many opportunities in the local Triangle area, we  hope you’ll find the perfect way to celebrate. And as always, if you ever need a place to stay (especially during these busy holidays), be sure to book your stay with us at the Hornsby House Inn. Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year!

Cue the sleigh bells…the Holidays are fast approaching! And with such a unique bounty of shops and markets in the Yorktown area, we’ve compiled the best ways to find something special for every person in your life. Got your list ready?

-For the crafter: Check out Auntie M’s American Cottage on Water Street for some unique treasures you won’t find anywhere else! You can search through hundreds of artistic, handmade items, or why not give an experience by gifting a workshop? Fabric collage anyone?

-For that crazy aunt: There’s always something funky and new to be discovered at the Cozy Cottage. Scour true antiques and beautiful replicas, all with the personal assistance and attention of local owners. You’re sure to find something one-of-a-kind!

-For the bookworm: No matter how many books a book-lover has, a new book is always exciting and welcomed. The Yorktown Bookshop has lots of comfy seating and a beautiful collection of used books, you might find yourself getting distracted while searching for your gift!

-For the woman who has everything: Just head over to Viccellio Goldsmith and Fine Jewelry for some truly exceptional pieces. Owner Hank Viccellio will even custom-make the perfect gift! You can never go wrong with jewelry, and this spot is the crème de la crème.

-For your neighbor up the street: Whether they’re long-time locals or new to the area, Whitley’s Peanut Factory gives a quintessential taste of Virginia, literally! Just across the river in Gloucester, this shop offers rows upon rows of different flavors and preparations so you’re sure to find just the right gift.

-For the history buff: Redcoat Antiques boasts a collection of 17th-19th century furniture, home decor and art pieces, as well as Waterford lighting. It’s the perfect place to shop for that friend or family member who treasures truly time-honored classics.

-For your in-laws: Check out The Yorktown Onion  for beautiful artisan collections and local artists’ works for that perfect gift. It’s full of trendy-yet-classy items that you can’t find anywhere else.

-For your boss:  Just up the road in Williamsburg, you can get wrapped up the Yankee Candle Village experience. If you’ve never been, it’s worth an afternoon! Aside from their expansive collection of specialty candles, you’ll find home decor and fashion items, not to mention the entire room dedicated to Christmas.

No matter your shopping plans, you should definitely make room for the Christmas Market on Main on December 1st. Dozens of local artisans and vendors line the Riverwalk with seemingly-endless holiday bounty. You’ll be sure to find something special!

Where is your favorite place in Yorktown to shop? Let us know!

Fall is one of the loveliest (and busiest!) times of the year to visit the Historic Area. Amazing food, festivals, markets, and programs are plentiful and you simply can’t go wrong with any of the events below! Will you catch any of these on your visit to Yorktown?

9/15 – 10/28 Busch Gardens Howl-o-Scream is some serious spooky fun, whether you’re traveling as a family, with friends, or on a romantic trip! Catch a thrill during the day with countless roller coaster rides & Halloween-themed shows, and catch a thrill at night when all of the scary characters roam the streets and the park comes to life! 

[Every Friday] Inside James Fort: The Powhatan Indians: We all know about Pocahontas, though some of us may have a skewed version of her story, thanks to Mr. Disney. Come to Historic Jamestowne and learn about how this local native tribe truly lived in the time of Pocahontas! 

[Saturdays 8-12] Yorktown Market Days: We don’t mean to boast, but the farmers market at Yorktown is pretty great. What with the scenic backdrop of the York River, the plethora of goods and produce, and frequent live music, what else could you ask for – besides some lovely fall weather in the air?  

9/29-9/30 Before the Seige: The British Army in Yorktown: If you are staying at the Hornsby House during this 2 day encampment, you won’t have to look far to find re-enactors who have come to occupy Yorktown!

9/29 Oyster Roast at Watermans Museum: Come enjoy some of the finest oysters in coastal Virginia at this traditional fall gathering!

9/30 Yorktown Art Stroll:  Always a fun stroll! 

10/4 Sister Cities Yorktown Presents: Soirée en Blanc: Read this article about this lovely tradition we share with our sister city across the pond, then purchase your tickets here.

10/5 Rhythms on the Riverwalk: Live Music? Yes please! Bring a lawn chair (and a blanket if the air is crisp enough) and listen to some wonderful tunes at the very last R on the R concert of the season  down on the Riverwalk!

10/6 Yorktown Wine Festival: Plentiful wine selections to taste + live music. Need we say more?

10/13 Market Days Fall Festival: Essentially the classic Yorktown Market Day, with an extra twist of fall!

10/13 Archeology Day at Historic Jamestown: A special day of programming to explore archaeology and Jamestown’s history through a variety of tours, activities, and encounters. Find all the details here! 

10/19 Yorktown Day: One of our favorite days of the year! This day marks the end of the American Revolution, and our official beginning as an independent country!

10/19 Yorktown Victory Celebration, American Revolution Museum at Yorktown: Celebrate the holiday with us!

10/28 Riverwalk Restaurant’s Sunday Brunch Buffet: Trust us, you want to be at one of Riverwalk Restaurant’s Sunday Brunches if you can help it. These happen fairly often, so keep an eye out if you won’t be with us at this time!

11/4 “The Revolutionary War Lives and Letters of Lucy and Henry Knox” Lecture & Book Signing: Part of the ‘AfterWARd’ Special Programs which celebrate and connect America’s Veterans.

11/10 Market Days Harvest Festival: Another farmers market of fall fun!

11/12 Veterans Day Ceremony: Join us at York Hall to honor our Veterans.

11/22-11/24 Foods & Feasts of Colonial Virginia at American Revolution Museum at Yorktown: Special programming that enables visitors to learn and envision what the holidays were like and what holiday FOOD was like centuries ago.

11/30 Christmas Tree Lighting: Celebrate the beginning of  the holiday season with Yorktown locals and visitors at the traditional Christmas Tree lighting!

Next thing you know, we’ll be gearing up for Christmas!

There’s no doubt that the summer is full of endless possibilities & brimming with fun events here in our small town. But every so often, we like to devise an hour-by-hour guide to a perfect day spent here in historic Yorktown. Are you visiting us anytime soon? Are you up for the challenge of completing this list?

9 AM Breakfast at the Hornsby House is a really unique – and tasty – experience. Not only is there an incredible buffet each morning with rotating casseroles, various breakfast meats, fresh fruit, and on special occasions eggs benedict…. But a meal spent around the dining room table in good conversation with your hosts and other guests is truly unique and memorable.

10 AM If you need a bit more caffeine, never fear! Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters just moved into the historic Cole Digges House just across the street. Take a tour of the house and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed joe.

11 AM If it’s Saturday, head to the Farmers Market down on River Street to grab some fresh fruit or locally baked goods to snack on throughout the day!

12 PM An hour on the beach does the soul some good; don’t forget sunscreen, a good book, and a towel to sit on.

1PM There are so many great lunch spots in Historic Yorktown that you can’t really go wrong. If you’re looking for a very relaxed atmosphere & don’t want to stray from the beach, try the Yorktown Pub. If you’re seeking something a bit more upscale, we’d suggest Umi Sushi or the Water Street Grille! (if you’re wondering, all of them serve wonderful seafood dishes)

2PM Vacation= dessert after lunch, right? Grab a cone of ice cream at Ben & Jerry’s, just across the street from the beach.

3Pm If it’s Sunday, Hop over to the American Revolution Museum & Spend a little time catching details you missed the first go round, then enjoy the fifes & Drums of yorktown at 3:45.

4PM Browse the shops on river street for holiday gifts, souvenirs, or treats to pamper yourself!

5PM Learn about the history of the area with the innkeepers during wine & cheese hour on the porch of the Hornsby House. Is there anything better?

6PM Dinner at the Riverwalk Restaurant simply cannot be beat. While staying with us, ask us about specials for this establishment!

7PM If it’s Thursday, head down to the Sounds of Summer Concerts and finish off the day with some wonderful live music!

What is your favorite thing to do in Yorktown? Enjoy!

Planning to celebrate Independence Day in the Historic Triangle?  Yorktown has all the charm and beauty, and options for the whole family! Take a look at the schedule of events below to plan the perfect trip during your stay at the Hornsby House Inn. As a bonus we’ve added a quick packing list to help you prepare for the long day!

8:00AM – Have a love for running or energetic kids? Run the Yorktown Independence Day 8k & 5k! 
Start the day at York High School and run through the battlefields. Don’t forget to pack some water and snacks to battle the heat. Register today to secure your place in the race.

9:00AM – Parade on Water & Main Street
The theme this year for the floats is “Freedom’s Celebration”, and it’s sure to be a blast! Bring your lawn chairs and see all of the great floats while you relax and listen to the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Ceremonial Band.

4:00PM – Event Parking Opens on Cook Road
Nobody loves to sit in traffic, and luckily the Yorktown Police have this parking scene down to a science. For our Bed and Breakfast Patrons – a HUGE benefit to staying at the Inn during the holiday celebrations has got to be the parking situation – park in your regular guest space at the Inn and avoid all traffic.

7:00PM – The Sounds of Liberty Bell Ringing Ceremony
Celebrate Freedom and join us as the Declaration of Independence is read and the Liberty Bell is rung. Special Performance by the Fife and Drum Corp.

8:00PM – Glen Boswick & Lil’ Bit of Swing
Did we mention that you should bring your beach chairs? Stake your claim down on the lawn and then put on your dancing shoes and get ready to swing the night away with the beautiful sounds of Glen Boswick!

9:15PM – Fireworks!
Yorktown offers one of the most beautiful firework shows! Enhance your Yorktown experience by finding a secret location on higher ground as you watch the fireworks illuminate the night sky.

It’s a long day out with the family, so don’t forget to pack these essentials:

• Sunscreen
• Water Bottles – you can refill them later!
• Snacks/food
• Bathing Suits
• Towels
• Beach Chairs
• Money! Ice cream, food trucks, and delicious treats are always available in Yorktown.

We hope to see you this Independence Day as we celebrate in style!

Here are some of the events coming up this summer that are sure to be some of the highlights of the season in the Historic Area!

Memorial Day Weekend Events:
May 26 Fifes and Drums of Yorktown
May 28 Grace Church Memorial Day Ceremony
May 28 York County Historical Committee Memorial Day Ceremony

Ongoing Events*:
Saturdays 8AM-Noon Yorktown Market Days
Sundays 3:45PM The Fifes & Drums of Yorktown
Wednesdays 4:45PM The Fifes & Drums of Yorktown
Thursdays 7-9:30PM Sounds of Summer Concerts

*Double check schedules here

Summertime Events:
May 25-July 1 Food & Wine Festival at Busch Gardens

June 9-10 Artillery Through the Ages at the American Revolution Museum in Yorktown

June 22-23 Bruce Hornsby’s Funhouse Festival in Williamsburg

July 4 Yorktown Independence Day Celebration is a free, fun, family-friendly event for your whole clan! Complete with races, a patriotic parade, a concert of live music and last but not least…. A beautiful fireworks display.

Various Dates Throughout July + August Inside James Fort: The Powhatan Indians at Historic Jamestown

July 26 Blacksmith Demonstration at Historic Jamestown

Tuesdays August 7-29 Military Band Concert Series. This series is always an enjoyable time full of inspirational and patriotic music!

August 25 National Park Service Birthday — free admission for everyone to Colonial National Historic Park!

Which events will you be here for this summer? Let us know on our Facebook page!