A Warm Invitation · 1776–2026 FBC250Anniversary Weekend First Baptist Church: At the Heart of the Anniversary Season The Historic First Baptist Church of Williamsburg warmly welcomes you to four unforgettable days of worship, remembrance, music, history, and community as we honor 250 years of faith and freedom—and carry this sacred legacy forward. Four Days of Commemoration Thursday 08 6 –7 PM Commemorative Spirituals Celebration First Baptist Church · 727 Scotland Street An evening celebration honoring the sacred spiritual tradition and the enduring role of music in the congregation’s journey of faith and freedom. Friday 09 9 –10 AM Unveiling of the African Baptist Meeting House Nassau Street · Colonial Williamsburg Gather for the unveiling and dedication of the newly constructed African Baptist Meeting House and sacred burial ground at the congregation’s original Nassau Street place of worship. The ceremony will close with Let Freedom Ring , featuring guest musician Pierre Whitlow, lead vocalist Ronzell Pretlow, and the Celebration Choir. Following the dedication, guests will be welcomed into the Meeting House and sacred burial ground. Visitors are then invited to tour the current church and updated Heritage Center at 727 Scotland Street. Refreshments will be served. Featured Speakers The Honorable Judge John Charles Thomas A barrier-breaking former Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia, NAACP Lifetime Image Award recipient, celebrated poet, and exceptional orator. View a featured presentation → Virginia State Senator Mamie E. Locke The first African American woman elected mayor of Hampton and the third African American woman elected to the Senate of Virginia. Read Senator Locke’s biography → Saturday 10 5 PM Let Freedom Ring Foundation Annual Gala Williamsburg Lodge An unforgettable evening of music and inspiration featuring dinner, concert, and an after-party with a DJ. The Foundation will present its inaugural Freedom’s Bell Award to Brent Leggs, President and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Guests will also enjoy an inspirational musical performance by Sarah Ikumu. Sunday 11 11 AM 250th Anniversary Worship Service First Baptist Church · 727 Scotland Street A spirit-filled and unforgettable worship service. Rev. Dr. Reginald F. Davis will deliver a message of determination, resilience, and hope, honoring the church’s journey through the Revolutionary War, slavery, the Civil War, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Movement, and the continuing work to preserve the fullness of African American history.