Several remnants from the original tourist attraction that was open from 2004-2010 will be on display during Labor Day weekend as accompaniments to the 42 decaying sculptures that have now fallen into a significant state of disrepair. The mementos that will be on display include several of the original placards, park signage, vintage Park images, an authentic First Lady dress and much more.
In addition to opportunities to take pictures of the sculptures, interesting facts and stories will be shared amongst our guests throughout the day. Presidential trivia with PRIZES will be held during several sessions. Additionally, merchandise such as prints, puzzles, magnets, books and other souvenirs will also be available for sale from two of Virginia's premier "abandonment artists".
TICKETS ARE LIMITED
FAQ's
Are you open all the time to visit the Heads? No. Pre-ticketed events for public access are held 8 times per year, almost always on weekends ( holidays may be the exception) . Occasionally, photo workshops are also held. Public access outside of these dates is not permitted as the property doubles as a busy industrial recycling site that is operational, and off limits to pedestrians, for most days of the year.
Can I visit the Heads outside of a guided tour or Photo Workshop? Unfortunately not.
Where will this event be held? At the location of the Presidents Heads, which is at 8212 Croaker Rd. in Williamsburg, Va. The name of the business is Hampton Roads Materials. Parking instructions will be sent with the guest e-mail that is distributed 48 hours prior to the event.
Why is there a difference in the ticket prices? The early passes are less expensive than the afternoon passes because, in the event of a sunny day, the Heads are back lit in the morning, which could be problematic for photographers. The Heads become front lit by 1PM. The premium price for the Early Evening ticket is due to the desirable lighting and chance for a dramatic sunset at the end of the day.
How and when will I be notified of the specifics and logisitics of the program? An e-mail will be sent to the address used to register, beginning a few days before the event. This will cover all of the specifics you will want and need to know. If you do not receive this introductory e-mail within 48 hours of the beginning of the event, please contact John Plashal @ "john@johnplashalphoto.com". Sometimes it goes to SPAM in your inbox. Information is also frequently posted at @John Plashal Photo on Facebook and on Instagram stories.
What is the refund policy? Refund requests are accepted up until 48 hours prior to the beginning of the first event of the day and will be issued MINUS THE EVENTBRITE CONVENIENCE FEE THAT IS ORIGINALLY CHARGED. No refunds will be accepted if requested within 48 hours of the first event of the day. ALL REFUNDS MUST BE REQUESTED THROUGH EVENTBRITE.
What is included in the VIP Pass? This ticket is offered for those that prefer to experience this event in the absence of crowds. Only 10 tickets have been made available for sale. An optional personalized Presidential Storytelling and Q&A session will be offered by John Plashal. Additionally, each guest will receive a "Presidential Gift Bag" which includes a few printed gifts of the sculptures. VIP ticket holders are welcome to stay throughout the remainder of the sessions for the day once the 1PM-2PM time slot has concluded.
What is an "All Day Pass" ? This pass entitles you to access to every session throughout the day except during the VIP hour, which is from 1PM-2PM.
Is each event two hours in duration? Each event is NOT two hours long, rather a two hour window of opportunity for you to visit. That being said, you will receive an itinerary in an email 48 hours prior to the event with the scheduled times of the Presidential Trivia and Storytelling sessions. It is up to you if want to participate in those sessions.
I am a photographer. Can I take pictures or fly a drone? Yes. Photography and videography is allowed as long as etiquette is exercised. Drones may NOT be flown during the speaking sessions.
I am a professional photographer and would like to bring a lighting rig and/or a model with me for a shoot. Is this allowed? No it is not. No lighting rigs or professional model shoots are allowed during this event.
Do you conduct this program if it is raining? Yes. Unless it is forecasted to be sustained and heavy. We have a high threshold for cancellation out of respect to those that spend days traveling to the area in anticipation of this highly unique experience. Many guests actually prefer rainy and moody weather as it lends to the eerieness of the locale.
Can I buy tickets on the spot? Only if the event is not sold out. We have strict attendance limitations with which we comply.
What ages encompass a YOUTH TICKET? Ages 8-17 require a YOUTH TICKET. Ages 7 and under are free and are listed as a CHILD TICKET.
Are there bathrooms on the property? Yes. There are portable toilets on the property.
Are dogs allowed? Yes. Canines are our best guests. Having your dog on a leash is required. Please make sure to carry a bag to clean up after your dog.
We are coming from out of state and plan to make a long weekend of our trip to The Heads. What else is there to do in Virginia? Within 10-20 minutes: Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Busch Gardens Amusement Park, Water Country, Great Wolf Lodge. Virginia Beach is an hour away. To stay within the Presidential theme, Monticello, Mt. Vernon and Montpelier are also in Virginia. Washington, D.C. is about 2.5 hours away.
I am traveling from afar to visit the Presidents Heads and would like some recommendations on lodging? Williamsburg is about 10 minutes from the Heads and offers accommodations that fit ALL budgets. This is a holiday weekend. Don't wait to book your hotel.
Do you conduct other events at The Presidents Heads? Yes. We offer photography workshops to accommodate beginners, intermediates and pros, both during the day and at night.
If I have further questions, to whom should I direct them? Please send an e-mail to "thepresidentsheads@gmail.com" with any additional questions. Please allow 1-2 days for a response. Inquiries about visiting the Heads outside of scheduled tour dates will not be returned due to the inability to accommodate those requests.