In the summer of 1825, the Town of Leesburg rolled out the red carpet for one of the most beloved figures of the American Revolution: the Marquis de Lafayette. Now, 200 years later, Leesburg is preparing to do it all over again.
As part of his “Farewell Tour” of the United States, Lafayette—by then a national hero in both France and America—visited towns and cities across the country. His journey was a celebration of the shared ideals of liberty and democracy, and nowhere was his welcome warmer than in Leesburg. On August 9, 1825, he was received by cheering crowds and patriotic decorations that brought the entire town to life.
This August, Leesburg will commemorate the bicentennial of Lafayette’s visit with three days of programming from August 8th–10th, culminating in a special appearance by a Lafayette reenactor at TASTE on Saturday, August 9th. The event will include historical interpretation, photo opportunities, and a chance to step back into the spirit of 1825.
To mark the occasion and help set the scene, businesses in Leesburg’s historic district are joining the celebration. The Town of Leesburg’s Economic Development Department is providing wreaths decorated with French and American flags to downtown storefronts, restaurants, and offices. These wreaths are inspired by 19th-century traditions and serve as a unifying visual tribute to the enduring friendship between the United States and France. Look for them on doors and windows throughout the downtown area in the days leading up to the anniversary weekend.
In addition to the live events, visitors will be able to follow Lafayette’s footsteps through a new digital walking tour in the Tour Leesburg mobile app. Launching in time for the anniversary, the self-guided experience will retrace Lafayette’s 1825 route through town, bringing local history to life through archival images, historical interpretation, and even a recommended playlist. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Leesburg’s Revolutionary connections, the walking tour will be a perfect way to engage with this unique chapter of our story.
To learn more about Lafayette’s 1825 visit and the full schedule of commemorative programs, visit the official event page at the Thomas Balch Library website.
Lafayette’s visit two centuries ago was a moment of pride for the people of Leesburg—a celebration of ideals, community, and shared purpose. As we approach this milestone, we invite residents and visitors alike to take part in remembering this extraordinary hero and his unforgettable visit to our town.