Next year marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and historic sites across the Commonwealth are gearing up for celebrations and commemorations.
The Virginia Tourism Corporation and the Virginia American Revolution Committee have launched a passport program to encourage visits to places like Highland and Monticello.
“This statewide partnership between some of the finest history institutions in the nation is an example of how, when we work together, we can create engaging, meaningful experiences for our fellow Virginians,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
A quarter million passports have been printed and are available at signature sites as well as the welcome centers at Virginia’s borders. Each site offers unique stamps that when collected can unlock discounts to admissions at those that charge admission. Those who collect at least five stamps will be entered into a prize drawing in December 2026.
“We encourage you to pick up your passport while supplies last and spend a year with us traveling around our great Commonwealth,” McClenny said.
One of the 70 sites is James Monroe’s Highland that’s just to the south of Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello.
“The VA250 Passport program is an exciting way to engage with the rich history of the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said Highland Executive Director, Sara Bon-Harper. “It is a great reminder of the wealth of history around us, and a guide to exploration in the next thirteen months.”
The passport also comes with a 64-page booklet.
Before you go: Paid subscribers cover the cost of conducting research for this article which was originally published in the November 13, 2025 edition of Charlottesville Community Engagement. You can either subscribe through Substack, make a monthly contribution through Patreon, or consider becoming a sponsor. The goal of Town Crier Productions is to increase awareness about what is happening at the local, regional, state, and federal government levels. Please share the work with others if you want people to know things.
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