This family friendly event will offer: music, launch of the historic batteau, art & crafts, Kid's activities and games, wildlife, history, blacksmith demonstration. Free and open to the public! The Festival takes place from 9am - 2pm. The James River Batteau Festival is an eight day flat boat journey from Lynchburg to near Richmond in the tradition of the Batteau which once carried goods and passengers in Early America. The Batteax will launch at 11:00am.