The new event schedule has been released for this year. Please read on for a brief description.
“Structures & Sculptures” Photography Contest
ALL YEAR LONG
Enter your photograph taken at the Cemetery between January 2016 and December 2017 (two full years) to win cash prizes. Entry deadline: Jan. 31, 2018
Old City Cemetery Art Exhibit
December 16, 2016–January 26, 2017
Westminster Canterbury will host a special exhibit of original art of the Cemetery by local artists. Open to the public. Exhibit lecture on January 24.
“Nat Turner’s Bones: Reassembling an American Rebel”
February 22
Dr. Kelley Fanto Deetz will discuss the archaeological search for the remains of Virginia slave Nat Turner, who was executed in 1831.
Co-sponsored by Jones Memorial Library
Gourd Bird House Workshop
March 11
Have you thought about using a gourd for a bird house? Learn how to make your own, and take one home to hang.
“Help Our Pollinators” Nature Walk
March 25
Shannon Brennan will lead a casual walk to find the plants that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, while discussing steps we can take to help out the insects and animals critical to our food supply.
“Tell Your Last Story: Obituary Writing Ahead of Time”
April 1
Award winning author Jessica Ward offers practical and entertaining advice on writing one of the most important historical documents about your life.
22nd Annual Antique Rose Festival
Antique Rose Sales
Beginning April 15 (New Date!)
Guided Rose Tours
May 14 (Mother’s Day), May 20–21, and May 27–28
Rose Illustration Workshops
Session I: May 11–12, Session II : May 15–16
Antique roses are the soul of the gravegarden. Study and paint these horticultural treasures in watercolor with botanical artist Tica Sydnor.
Confederate Memorial Day Service
May 28
Sponsored this year by Garland-Rodes Camp No. 409, Sons of Confederate Veterans. Period dress encouraged.
Memorial Day Bird Walk and Count
May 29
Join members of the Lynchburg Bird Club for their annual species tally during the peak of the bird population. Bring binoculars. Rain or shine.
Summer Saturdays in the Cemetery
June, July & August
Casual guided walking tours will highlight history, horticulture, and other points of interest on the grounds every summer Saturday morning.
National Donut Day
June 2
Drop in for a free donut and tour of the Station House Museum as we honor the women who served donuts to soldiers during World War I.
Blessing of the Animals
October 8
Bring your pets (or photos of pets) for a special blessing by local Episcopal clergy.
Candlelight Tours
October 13–14, 19–21, 26–28
10th Anniversary Season! Professional actors in period costume bring Cemetery residents to life with true stories from local history. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets go on sale September 15.
Autumn Afternoon in the Gravegarden
October 29
Casual guided walking tour will highlight history, horticulture, and other points of interest on the grounds near the peak of fall color.
All Hallows Eve
October 31
Annual Episcopal service in the Bicentennial Chapel. Halloween costumes welcome.
Wreaths Across America
December 16
After a brief ceremony, join us as we lay evergreen wreaths on hundreds of veterans’ graves in the Cemetery.
Holiday Open House
December 17
The Cemetery’s historic museums will be open to the public and decorated for the holidays with seasonal greenery. Stop by the Cemetery Center for hot cider, cookies, and unique gift
