In a community rich with history and tradition, Rocky Mount is about to host a once-in-a-lifetime event that transports residents and visitors back two centuries to relive a remarkable chapter of American history. On Friday, February 28, 2025, the Falls of the Tar Lafayette Bicentennial will celebrate the legacy of Marquis de Lafayette, a French hero of the American Revolution, with an unforgettable afternoon and evening of historical and cultural festivities.

This event isn’t your typical community gathering; it’s an immersive journey into the past. With its unique programming, elegant Regency-era banquet, and historical reenactments, the Bicentennial offers a fresh and exhilarating way to connect with Rocky Mount’s heritage.

While Rocky Mount is no stranger to events celebrating its vibrant culture and rich history, the Falls of the Tar Lafayette Bicentennial brings something truly novel to the area. Attendees can look forward to:

• Witnessing Lafayette and his assistant, Auguste Levasseur, arrive in a horse-drawn carriage, vividly recreating the General’s legendary 1825 tour.

• Participating in the rededication of the historic Donaldson Tavern Marker, a tribute to Lafayette’s overnight stay in Rocky Mount 200 years ago.

• Dancing the night away at a Regency-era banquet and dance, complete with live string quartet music, period-appropriate toasts, and elegant costumes reminiscent of a Jane Austen novel.

"This isn’t just a history lesson; it’s a celebration,” says a representative of the Nash County Historical Association. “We’re inviting everyone to step back in time, embrace the spirit of Lafayette, and experience history in a way that’s both fun and meaningful.”

Few figures in history evoke the same admiration as Marquis de Lafayette, a young French aristocrat who played a pivotal role in securing America’s independence. Known as "Washington’s adopted son,” Lafayette’s ideals of liberty, equality, and human rights resonate deeply today, making this celebration more than just a nod to the past—it’s a reflection on timeless values.

During his tour of the United States as “Guest of the Nation,” Lafayette visited Rocky Mount’s Donaldson Tavern, where a grand dinner and dance were held in his honor. The Falls of the Tar Bicentennial will recreate that iconic moment, blending history with community pride.

Highlights include:

• A marker rededication ceremony at Battle Park, honoring the tavern where Lafayette stayed.

• Historical speeches, including remarks by descendants of the original founders of Rocky Mount Mills.

• An original 1825 song to Lafayette, performed live by local musicians.

• An engaging six-panel traveling display courtesy of the American Friends of Lafayette.

Events like this are rare opportunities to engage with history in a hands-on way. The Bicentennial invites attendees to don Regency-era attire, learn historical dances, and immerse themselves in a world far removed from the modern hustle. Shuttle services, complimentary beverages, and a picturesque venue at Rocky Mount Mills Power House ensure the experience is seamless and enjoyable.

Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of live music and dancing, or simply someone looking for a unique evening out, the Falls of the Tar Lafayette Bicentennial offers something special. Admission to the marker rededication ceremony is free, while tickets for the evening banquet and dance are available for purchase here. Regency-era attire is encouraged, but semi-formal cocktail attire is also welcome.

As Rocky Mount prepares to host this extraordinary event, excitement is building across the community. The Falls of the Tar Lafayette Bicentennial is more than a celebration; it’s a chance to honor the ideals of freedom and equality while experiencing the charm and elegance of 1825.

So, mark your calendar, polish your dancing shoes, and get ready to party like it’s 1825. This February, Rocky Mount promises to deliver history, elegance, and excitement in a way the community has never seen before.  Purchase your tickets here!