Ampersand International Arts Festival Returns to Williamsburg March 16–22, 2026
By John Womeldorf, A.K.A. Mr. Williamsburg
One of the things I love most about living in Williamsburg is that you never quite know what creative spark is going to show up next.
And this March, that spark turns into a full-blown creative explosion.
The Ampersand International Arts Festival returns to Williamsburg March 16–22, 2026, bringing more than 50 events featuring authors, musicians, comedians, filmmakers, visual artists, and other creators from across the country.
For one week, our historic town becomes a stage.
A Festival That Feels Bigger Than Its Footprint
Williamsburg may be known for history, brick sidewalks, and colonial charm — but longtime residents know there’s something else happening here too.
There’s a growing creative energy.
And Ampersand taps directly into it.
Throughout the week, you’ll find:
Live music performances Author talks and literary discussions Comedy showcases Film screenings Visual art exhibits Pop-up creative experiences
Events take place in a variety of venues around town, creating a true “arts crawl” feel that invites you to explore Williamsburg in a whole new way.
Why Events Like This Matter
As someone who has spent more than two decades helping people relocate to Williamsburg, I can tell you this:
People don’t move here just for the houses.
They move here for the lifestyle.
They want walkable events.
They want culture.
They want connection.
They want a sense of community.
Festivals like Ampersand reinforce that Williamsburg isn’t just preserving the past — it’s actively building a creative future.
It’s one of the reasons so many people fall in love with this place.
A Week to Explore, Discover, and Connect
Whether you attend one event or build your entire week around it, this is a great opportunity to lean in.
Grab dinner before a show.
Meet friends downtown.
Discover an artist you’ve never heard of.
Laugh.
Listen.
Learn.
If you’re new to the area — or thinking about moving here — this is exactly the kind of week that shows what life in Williamsburg can feel like beyond the brochures.
Where to Find Schedules, Tickets, and Details
For full event listings, schedules, and ticket information, visit:
🔗 Official Festival Website:
🔗 Visit Williamsburg Event Page:
https://www.visitwilliamsburg.com/events/
These sites are the best places to find up-to-date information on individual performances, venues, and special programs.
I recommend bookmarking them if you plan to attend more than one event.
Williamsburg: More Than a Historic Town
Yes, we have Colonial Williamsburg.
Yes, we have beautiful neighborhoods, trails, rivers, and golf courses.
But we also have a thriving arts community.
The Ampersand International Arts Festival is proof that Williamsburg isn’t standing still.
It’s evolving.
And I love seeing it happen.
If you attend, let me know what events stood out to you. I’m always curious what resonates most with people.
I’ll see you around town.
About the Author
Hi, I’m John Womeldorf — A.K.A. Mr. Williamsburg.
I’ve been listing and selling homes in Williamsburg and across Hampton Roads — from Virginia Beach to Richmond and everywhere in between — for over 20 years. I don’t just help people buy and sell houses; I help them understand the lifestyle that makes this region special.
If you’re thinking about making a move — or simply want to talk about what makes Williamsburg such a dynamic place to live — you can call or text me at 757-254-8136, email me at John@MrWilliamsburg.com, or visit mrwilliamsburg.com.
I look forward to connecting with you.