In June, the James River Bateaux Festival brings a week of one of the East Coast's most unusual waterborne celebrations, centered on reproductions of 18th century shallow draft merchant boats. In their time each 60 foot craft could carry up to 20 tons of goods to Richmond and back much faster than horses and wagons.  A few were discovered near Richmond in the early 1980's, allowing carpenters to rebuild the time tested design.  The festival follows the river, stopping at towns along the way for various activities.

Also in June the Fair by the James happens in Riverfront Festival Park, with rides, live music, fireworks and food. 

September's Kaleidoscope starts with the Italian Festival of Seven Hills and keeps going the entire month.  Kaleidoscope is Lynchburg's main fall celebration and involves everything from a barbecue jamboree and bike race to a teddy bear parade and bocce ball tournament, plus the usual concerts, crafts and cooking.