events

James River Batteau Fest Launch Party at Percival's Island

Friday June 13, 2025 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Percival's Island1600 Concord TurnpikeLynchburg VA 24504
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Notes regarding time

View the batteaux from 9 AM until launch at 10:30 AM; Festival from 9 AM - 1 PM

Description

2025 brings the 40th annual James River Batteau Festival. For four decades, the festival has started in Lynchburg!! This year, it begins on June 14th and goes for the following 8 days, covering 120 miles of the James River.

Join us in Lynchburg for the 40th Annual James River Batteau Festival on June 13 and 14! 

This year, we're kicking off the event with the James River Batteau Fest Launch Party on June 13 from 6:30 PM to 10 PM at Percival’s Island. Enjoy live entertainment by Holy River and the one and only Hackensaw Boys! 

Then join us on Saturday, June 14 from 9 AM to 1 PM for the Official Batteau Launch. Arrive early to explore river-themed exhibits, historical vendors, and artisan booths before gathering along the riverbank to cheer on the crews as they embark on their journey.

A big thank you to our sponsor, Scott Insurance, and our other partners for helping make this year’s festival bigger and better than ever!

For more information, or to be a vendor/educator, visit the Lynchburg Parks and Recreation website: https://www.lynchburgparksandrec.com/programs-and-activities/40th-annual-batteau-fest/

The 8-day trip from Lynchburg to Maidens Landing stops at Stapleton, Bent Creek, Wingina, Howardsville, Scottsville, New Canton/ Bremo, Cartersville, and ends on June 21 at Maidens Landing. 

The enjoyment we’ve had over the past forty decades along with the attention we’ve brought to the James, the Batteaux, and this interesting period in our history, make the festival a truly unique event for everyone involved.

View the batteaux from 9 AM until launch at 10:30 AM.

Visit https://vacanals.org/batteau/ to read more about the James River Batteau Festival, including the daily schedules. 

FREE ADMISSION FOR SPECTATORS. FEES FOR CANOEISTS AND CAMPERS.

Who

All ages

Cost

Free

How

Come to Percival's Island. Bring a chair or blanket if you wish.

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