There is a new tradition in our region called Back to the Bay. It's a celebration by communities, families and businesses that are connected to the Chesapeake Bay.

This event showcases our shared responsibility for stewardship and conservation of the 17 million residents who call this watershed home. 

Back to the Bay will be Saturday June 9 on Brown's Island, Richmond

Back to the Bay is Virginia's signature event of Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week, and it is held annually on the second Saturday in June. 

The first Back to the Bay was held at Mason Neck State Park in 2017 and we were joined by 500+ attendees and over 30 partners who showcased a piece of what they do every day to restore and protect the bay. 

This year, Back to the Bay will be held Saturday, June 9 on Brown's Island in Richmond, Virginia. It's a special year because Back to the Bay will come to life at Festival of the River: Three Days of Music, Art and Environment. There is no cost for this special event.

Festival of the River is a one-time festival that will showcase the very best of the James River, Chesapeake Bay and Richmond Region. Follow the festival on Facebook to see the schedule of events and to stay up-to-date on festival news.

Back to the Bay

Saturday, June 9
2 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Brown's Island, Richmond, VA

Back to the Bay is the gemstone of Chesapeake Bay Awareness Week (CBWA), which, true to its name, is meant to raise the awareness by citizens and businesses of how important the Chesapeake Bay is to the state and, in fact, the nation.

We're excited because the special week is also officially recognized by Pennsylvania and Maryland thanks in large part to promotional efforts by the Chesapeake Bay Commission in 2016.

Learn more about this unique event here.

Festival of the River

The Festival of the River is a brand new three-day celebration of Music, Art, and Environment taking place on Brown’s Island June 8 -10, 2018. Back to the Bay provides opportunities to explore the lands and stories that make up the Chesapeake Bay watershed.