Mark Your Calendar: Drummer’s Call Returns to Colonial Williamsburg May 16–17
By John Womeldorf
If you’ve never felt the ground vibrate from the sound of fifes and drums echoing down Duke of Gloucester Street, let me tell you—you’re missing something magical. Next weekend, May 16–17, Drummer’s Call returns to Colonial Williamsburg, and it’s one of the most visually and aurally striking events you’ll find in town all year. Even better? It’s free and open to the public.
Hosted by the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, Drummer’s Call brings together eight military music groups from across the country to celebrate our nation’s musical and military heritage. From the Revolutionary War through the Civil War, you’ll experience period-accurate uniforms, instruments, and precision performances that bring history to life in a way that’s hard to describe—but unforgettable to witness.
The weekend kicks off Friday night, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Charlton Stage (on the east end of the Historic Area near the Capitol), with “Successful Campaign,” an evening of traditional military music performed by the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums Senior Corps and the Middlesex County Volunteers. Bring a lawn chair, soak in the atmosphere, and let the music transport you.
Saturday is the heart of the celebration. Starting at 12:30 p.m., the Grand March and Review takes over Duke of Gloucester Street, as all the groups march from the Capitol to Market Square. There, each group performs behind the Courthouse for an extended, crowd-pleasing review until 2:30 p.m. Participating groups include:
1st Michigan Colonial Fife and Drum Corps Civil War Field Music 1st Pennsylvania PRVC Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums Alumni Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums Field Musick of the American Revolution Fifes and Drums of York Town Guilford Courthouse Fifes & Drum Corps Middlesex County Volunteers Fifes & Drums
Then, to cap off the experience, the Williamsburg Military Tattoo begins Saturday night at 8:30 p.m.—a torch-lit march down DoG Street that will give you chills. Trust me, you’ll want your camera ready for this one.
A Tradition That Starts Young
Founded in 1958, the Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums have long been one of the Historic Area’s most iconic sights (and sounds). Comprised of local youth aged 10–18, they train extensively to perform year-round both locally and at national events. Know a student who might be interested? Kids entering 4th grade who live in James City County, York County, or the City of Williamsburg can apply to join the fall 2025 recruit class. Applications are due by May 31. More info here.
Why It Matters
Fife and drum corps were once more than ceremonial—they were the original battlefield communication system. In the 18th century, each company had a fifer and drummer responsible for regulating daily activities and relaying commands during battle. The sound carried for miles, which was crucial in the days before radios or loudspeakers. You can learn more about this history here.
Why I Share These Events
As a local real estate agent, I often say I’m more than just a Realtor—I’m an ambassador for life in and around Williamsburg. Events like Drummer’s Call are a big part of why so many people fall in love with this area. They show the heart, heritage, and vibrancy that makes our community so special.
Whether you’re already a Williamsburg local or thinking of relocating, I hope you’ll join me in supporting events like this that make our town shine.
If you’re ever curious about what it’s like to live here—or thinking about making a move—I’d love to share more. You can always reach me at john@mrwilliamsburg.com or 757-254-8136, and of course, explore more of what makes this area great at mrwilliamsburg.com.