Celebrating 250 Years of Liberty

The 250^th anniversary of America’s founding has special meaning in Bedford. The county has helped influence American history and been profoundly shaped by it. We welcome all to journey through our historic sites and celebrate 250 years of freedom in a place once known as Liberty.

The spirit of the author of the Declaration of Independence can still be felt in Bedford. Thomas Jefferson built his beloved retreat, Poplar Forest, in the eastern part of Bedford in what is now Forest, Virginia. Destination Bedford is a proud Semiquincentennial Partner in support of the special events happening in 2026.

The National D-Day Memorial honors all who fought valiantly in the D-Day operation in France in June 1944. The small town of Bedford lost more soldiers per capita than any other place in the country. The memorial, as well as the Bedford Boys Tribute Center, Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library, and other sites around the community reminds us of their sacrifice for freedom.

Explore Bedford’s rich history during the year-long celebration of VA250. Stop at the Bedford Area Welcome Center for information.

Many Bedford-area businesses and organizations are taking part in Virginia’s 250^th celebration of our nation.

Bedford VA250 Commemorative Partners:

Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
Bedford Area Welcome Center
Bedford Boys Tribute Center
Bedford County, Virginia
Bedford County Fair
Bedford Museum & Genealogical Library
Bedford Urban Gardens
Big Otter Mill
Bedford Public Library System
Destination Bedford Virginia
DJ Showtime
Eagle’s Eye Creative
Fables & Feathers Winery
GFWC Bedford Woman’s Club
Mitchell’s Restaurant
National D-Day Memorial
ONE Forest School
Otter Hill Apiary
Piney Creek Creations LLC
R & R Pool Care, LLC
Rock Pike Baptist Church
SML Gives
Smith Mountain Lake Regional Chamber of Commerce
Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest
Wind Vineyards
Woodworks by Jonathan