Make Plans for These Richmond Events

More events after November 27

Virginia Repertory Theatre’s 2025-2026 Season, still to come:

• Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” adapted by Virginia Repertory Theatre’s Artistic Director, Rick Hammerly. Nov. 28 to Dec. 28 at the November Theater, Richmond.
• Ira Levin’s “Deathtrap,” the classic comedy thriller. Dec. 12 to Jan. 18, 2026, at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.
• Eboni Booth’s off-broadway hit, “Primary Trust.” March 5 to 29, 2026, at the November Theater, Richmond.
• Sandy Rustin’s “The Cottage.” March 27 to April 26, 2026, at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.
• Kids’ performance, “The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley.” April 8 to May 3, 2026, at the November Theater, Richmond.
• Tony Award-winning hit, “Come from Away.” June 18 to Aug. 2, 2026, at the November Theater, Richmond.

Pops: Let It Snow! Richmond Symphony and Chorus present holiday music. Nov. 29, 2 and 7 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center.

Christmas Together. Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and Cece Winans present selections spanning the artists’ expansive Christmas repertoires with traditional classics and others from their holiday albums. Nov. 29, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Legends on Grace: Nightcaps & Stories.  Traditional cabaret-style performances with legendary Virginia artists. Subscriptions on sale now.

• Yes And! Theatrical Company – Nov. 29
• My Funny Valentine: An Evening with Scott Wichmann + Friends – Feb. 14
• Laura Ann Singh + Rosette – April 25

“Let It Snow.” Richmond Symphony and Chorus celebrate the season with holiday traditions, including Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus. Nov. 29, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., at Carpenter Theatre, Richmond.

Pops: Holiday Brass. Richmond Symphony presents holiday hits played on brass instruments. Nov. 30, 3 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

December: holiday happenings and more

“Les Misérables.” The popular musical returns to Richmond. It’s the moving story of transformation and integrity, of Jean Valjean’s powerful response to mercy, as he seeks to live with honor and love, pursued by the relentless Inspector Javert. The tale is set against the backdrop of 19th-century France and ideals of liberty and equality. Dec. 2 to 7 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Good Shot Judy: A Crooners Christmas. Classic hits from artists like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Ray Charles, Michael Bublé, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Bette Midler, and more, with the expanded Good Shot 20-piece orchestra. Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

The Bizarre Bazaar 50th Christmas Collection. More than 450 juried exhibitors from across the country showcase their latest gift lines, holiday décor, gourmet foods, handmade jewelry, clothing, accessories, crafts, lotions, and more. Dec. 4 to 7 at Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond.

RVA Krampusnacht 13th Annual Yuletide Monsters Group Art Show. Krampus, a mythical creature from Central European folklore, serves as Santa’s dark counterpart, tasked with scaring naughty children during the holiday season. The event themed “Winter Spirits,” will feature vendors, performances, and music, and submitted visual art related themes such as Krampus, Winter Folklore, and Creepy Christmas. Dec. 5, 5 to 11 p.m., at Gallery5, Richmond.

RVA Illuminates. The annual tree lighting and illumination of the Downtown Richmond skyline, plus live performances and food trucks. Dec. 5, countdown starts at 5:59 p.m., at Kanawha Plaza, Richmond.

Rocky Mountain Christmas. Jim Curry presents the music of John Denver. Dec. 5, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Dominion Energy Christmas Parade. Colorful floats, helium balloons, marching bands, and special guests, including Santa. Also broadcast live on WTVR CBS6. FREE. Dec. 6, 10:15 a.m., along Broad Street from the Science Museum of Virginia to 10th Street, Richmond.

Holidaze Market. Festive shopping featuring handcrafted creations from local crafters and artisans. Bring new unwrapped toys to donate to the Toys for Tots Toy Drive. Dec. 6, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Gallery5, Richmond.

HoliSlay Drag Brunch. Fierce performances, festive looks, and delicious brunch bites with signature cocktails. Dec. 6, noon to 3 p.m., at The Black Olive Pizzeria, Richmond.

Masters of Soul: A Motown Christmas. Celebrating Motown artists, their music, and their style, with costumed and choreographed tributes to male and female groups, backed by a live band. The Temptations, Gladys Knight & the Pips, The Four Tops, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Jackson Five, The Commodores, and more. Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Kadencia Orchestra: Tropical Christmas 2. Richmond’s Afro-Puerto Rican salsa band presents their Christmas show, a great way to liven up your holiday season. Dec. 6, 8 p.m., at Richmond Music Hall, Richmond.

“The Nutcracker.” Richmond Ballet presents Stoner Winslett’s cherished production of the classic Tchaikovsky tradition. Dec. 6 to 23 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

18th Century Chocolate Making Demonstration. Observe chocolate being made using reproduction cooking tools and equipment appropriate to the 18th century. Sample American Heritage Chocolate and enjoy a hot chocolate in Commonwealth Café. FREE. Saturdays in December, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” The Virginians Chorus, the Richmond Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, presents traditional and memorable Christmas music to usher in the holiday season. Dec. 7, 3 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

1950s Monthly Movie Series. Ashland Theatre presents top movies from the 1950s. All tickets for the series will be just 75 cents. All showings begin at 7 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

• Dec. 8, Harvey
• Jan. 12, DOA
• Feb. 9, Rashomon
• March 9, Born Yesterday (Academy Award Best Picture Nominee)
• April 13, The File on Thelma Jordan
• May 11, Stage Fright
• June 15, In a Lonely Place
• July 13, All About Eve (Academy Award Best Picture Winner)
• Aug. 10, Les Enfants Terribles

The Milk Carton Kids. Part of the American folk tradition, the musicians blend ethereal harmonies and intricate musicianship with a uniquely powerful brand of contemporary songcraft. Dec. 9, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

An Evening with Chevy Chase. After a screening of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” the long-time favorite American slapstick comedian engages in an on-stage conversation and Q&A, joined by his wife, Jayni. The two share behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this Christmas movie, plus answer other questions. Dec. 10, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings. Performed by string quartet Listeso, the famous Candlelight concerts return for a holiday performance including beloved Christmas classics. Dec. 11 and 19 at John Marshall Ballrooms, Richmond.

“Rock Castle Home” Documentary Film Screening. In the mid-1930s, the Blue Ridge Parkway was born, to lure visitors to the mountains. Farm families living at Rock Castle Gorge had to be moved, and officials set about acquiring their land. Rock Castle descendants today work to hold onto their past through photographs and stories. Followed by a discussion with the executive producer and director Charles D. Thompson Jr. Part of the House to Highway theme. Dec. 12, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

Hanover Christmas. Step into a candlelit woodland trail to see fellow travelers, shepherds, wise men, and angels and relive the birth of Jesus. Enjoy inspiring musical performances and dramatic reenactments, plus an indoors reception of festive music and refreshments. A suggested donation of $10 per person supports the Annual Fund for Camp Hanover. Dec. 12 and 13, 6 to 9 p.m., at Camp Hanover.

Hand / Thrown Holiday Market. Featuring handmade ceramics by local artists and food from the Abby Moore Café, promoting ceramic arts through community engagement, education, and partnerships. Dec. 12 to 14 at ICA at VCU, Richmond.

“Annie.” The optimistic musical of the plucky red-headed orphan, her faithful furry friend, the wealthy but generous Daddy Warbucks, and the character we love to hate – Miss Hannigan, played by returning local performer, Mary Page Nance. Dec. 12 to 21 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

TubaChristmas 2025. Presenting MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS, a world-wide celebration featuring the biggest and brassiest of instruments. Inviting players of the tuba, euphonium, and baritone to participate. FREE. Dec. 13, 3 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Winter Wander. Join the Valentine for holiday cheer with a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, live music, refreshments, and family crafts. Plus, tour historic Court End and hop on a free trolley for open houses and other activities at nearby cultural sites including: the American Civil War Museum’s, White House of the Confederacy, the John Marshall House, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, the Poe Museum, Monumental Church, and Masons’ Hall. FREE. Dec. 14, noon to 4 p.m., at The Valetine, Richmond.

Yuletides Open House. Historic reenactors will demonstrate holiday traditions common in 17th-century England, 19th-century London and 20th-century Richmond with activities and performances both inside and out. FREE. Dec. 14, noon to 5 p.m., at Agecroft Hall and Gardens, Richmond.

A MoTown Christmas: MoTown and More. Relive this wonderful era of music with songs from legendary artists including Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, Four Tops and more. Dec. 14, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Winter Black Market. Shop ghoulish goods and creep-tastic creations for the holidays (or any occasion) from Richmond’s own sellers and makers at Fallout RVA. Discover unique, handcrafted gifts that you almost certainly won’t be able to find anywhere else. Ages 18+. Dec. 14 and 21 at Fallout RVA, Richmond.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland. A blend of circus artistry and favorite holiday music, this spectacular production will transport you to a winter wonderland. Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

An Evening with Heart. The rock band formed in 1973 in Vancouver, BC. In 1975, their first album, “Dreamboat Annie,” achieved global success. Heart blends the sounds of ’70s hard rock and acoustic rock, punk, and even at times symphonic. Dec. 17 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Celebrate Christmas Tour. Natalie Grant & Danny Gokey serve up reimagined holiday favorites and powerful worship-filled moments. Dec. 19, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

“The Nutcracker.” The Stavna Ballet presents the magical Christmas tale, filled with dazzling snowflakes, mischievous mice, and the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy, accompanied by breathtaking dancing, stunning costumes, and the unforgettable music of Tchaikovsky. Dec. 19 to 21 at Perkinson Center, Chester.

The KOS Band Holiday Show. The 11-piece musical group plays all the best dance music, highlighting Top 40, Motown, and classic rock ’n’ roll hits from the ’60s through today. Dec. 20, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Susan Greenbaum Band – Holiday Show. The Richmond legend presents songs for the season. Dec. 21, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

R4ND4ZZO BIGB4ND Holiday Special. A Big Band Tribute to Vince Guaraldi, an American jazz pianist best known for composing the music for “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” Dec. 21, 6 and 8 p.m., at Ember Music Hall, Richmond.

Capital City Kwanzaa Festival. Celebrate the season with the Elegba Folklore Society at one of the East Coast’s largest annual Kwanzaa celebrations. Enjoy a rich cultural experience featuring a traditional ceremony, live performances, workshops, activities for children, and an African market. Dec. 27, 1 to 7 p.m., at Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond.

New Year’s Eve Featuring The Jangling Reinharts. Celebrate New Year’s with the Richmond-based roots-rock band presenting covers from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Dec. 31, 8:30 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Looking ahead to 2026

“Legend of the Poinsettia.” Latin Ballet of Virginia presents its annual production of the legendary Mexican tale of a pure-hearted young girl who discovers the true spirit of giving. Jan. 9 to 11 at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Richmond Shakespeare 27th Season. Five plays explore identity, ambition, and the contradictions of being human. “One of the most complicated things about being human is our constant negotiation with our own identities. In our lives we adopt roles, whether they are social, cultural, gendered, political or moral – to gain freedom, power, love,” says artistic director James Ricks.

• “King James” by Rajiv Joseph, Jan. 15 to Feb. 1, 2026, at Theatre Gym. “King” LeBron James’s years playing in Cleveland bring promise, prosperity, and renewal to a city in desperate need of all three. His tenure also unites Shawn and Matt in an unlikely bond forged by fandom. The men navigate their turbulent friendship through their shared love of basketball – and endless amiable arguments.
• “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare, March 27 to April 12, 2026, at Gottwald Playhouse. Ambition runs red in this gripping tale of power, prophecy, and betrayal. When Macbeth receives a haunting prediction from three mysterious witches, he and his wife set forth on a bloody path toward the throne of Scotland, no matter the cost.
• Richmond Shakespeare Festival begins with “As You Like It” by William Shakespeare at Agecroft Hall. Banished from court and cast into the Forest of Arden, Rosalind disguises herself as a boy and discovers that love, freedom, and self-discovery thrive far from the rules of society. As shepherds, fools, lords, and lovers wander through the woods, mistaken identities and unexpected romances blossom under the trees.
• Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” at Agecroft Hall. Lies, love, and low-stakes scandal collide in the deliciously absurd comedy of manners. Jack and Algernon each invent fictional alter egos, both conveniently named Ernest, to dodge social obligations and pursue romance, but their schemes unravel when their lies catch up with them.

Shady Grove Coffeehouse 2025-2026. Performances at Unitarian Universalist Community Church, Glen Allen.

• Dana Robinson, Jan. 17, 2026
• The Honey Dewdrops, Feb. 21
• Bill Evans – The Banjo in America with Babi Evans

“Back to the Future: The Musical.” The sensory-filled live experience is based on the 1985 movie, as teenaged Marty McFly is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown. Before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence. Jan. 20 to 25, 2026, at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Ari Shapiro: Thank You For Listening. Known widely as an NPR journalist, Shapiro is becoming one of America’s beloved storytellers. His new cabaret solo show is hilarious and moving, adapting tales from his best-selling memoir, “The Best Strangers In the World,” into an evening of stories and songs about the power of listening to forge connections. Jan. 29, 2026, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

The Imaginaries. Husband and wife duo Shane Henry (guitar, vocals) and Maggie McClure (piano, vocals) form a unique blend of Americana music. Feb. 7, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Defiant Spirits. Virago Cocktails, small plates, and discussions highlighting the exhibition “Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865,” covering stories of Black Virginians who were living free during the time of slavery. This event features the story of John Dabney, who became renowned for his signature mint julep while still enslaved. Feb. 11, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Relationships Forged in War Symposium. The American Civil War was not only a clash of armies and ideologies but also a crucible in which bonds were formed. Loyalty, friendship, family, and even enmity were shaped and tested both on the battlefield and within the halls of government across a divided nation. The 2026 ACWM Symposium explores the human connections that emerged from conflict. Feb. 13 to 15 at the American Civil War Museum, Richmond.

78th Annual Antiques Forum: That the Future May Learn From the Past. The program commemorates 250 years of American independence, celebrates 100 years of collecting and bringing history to life at The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and explores past inspiration and future influence through the lens of material culture and the decorative arts. Feb. 19 to 25 at Colonial Williamsburg.

Kadencia! Bomba, Plena and Salsa. Using bomba, plena, and salsa to promote Puerto Rican culture. Pay what you can. Feb. 21, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Virginia Wine Expo 2026. Returning to venues in and around Richmond, Feb. 28 to March 8, 2026.

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus. A hybrid of vaudeville, circus, wild west shows, burlesque, and sideshow, adding a contemporary twist to the grand traditions of American circus. March 6, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Inaugural Salute to Service Reunion Celebration. A special day dedicated to reuniting Operation Desert Storm & Operation Desert Shield Virginia veterans, honoring their service, and commemorating the 35th anniversary of the conflict. Guest speakers, musical performances, film screenings, a wreath-laying ceremony, and more. Veterans and families can request an invitation to be part of this meaningful event. March 21, 2026, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Virginia War Memorial, Richmond.

The Bizarre Bazaar 34th Spring Market. More than 275 juried exhibitors from across the country will display new spring gift lines, accessories for the home and garden, fine art, handmade jewelry, gourmet foods, clothing, toys, quality crafts, lotions, soaps, pottery, bulbs, plants, and more. April 10 to 12, 2026, at Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond.

Davis Sedaris. The humorist and author brings his sardonic wit and incisive social critiques to Richmond with new readings, a Q&A, and book signings. April 17, 2026, 8 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

“The Wiz.” The groundbreaking twist on “The Wizard of Oz” tells the tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world, backed by an iconic score of soul, gospel, rock, and ’70s funk. April 21 to April 26 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen. Featuring Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury, the group has been performing their tribute to Queen since 1993. May 1, 8 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

“& Juliet.” Part of Broadway in Richmond, “& Juliet” flips the script on the greatest love story ever told and asks: what would happen if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Instead, she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love – her way. May 12 to 17 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Ongoing Performances & Exhibitions

Around Richmond, and the occasional road trip

“Ride the Cyclone.” In this funny and outlandish story, the lives of six teenagers are cut short in a freak roller coaster accident. When they awake in limbo, a mechanical fortune teller invites each to tell a story to win a chance to return to life. This dark comedy musical looks at what makes a life well-lived. Includes special performances with ASL interpretations and audio descriptions from Virginia Voice. Ages 13+. Through Nov. 22 at SPARC, Richmond.

“Once Upon a Mattress.” Henrico Theatre Company presents the comedic retelling of “The Princess and the Pea.” Through Nov. 23 at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

“Faith & Resilience: The Legacy of Black Catholics in Virginia.” Using personal stories, historical artifacts, and community reflections to emphasize the vital contributions of Black Catholics, from growing the church in Virginia to their commitment to justice and the spiritual richness through worship, education, and evangelization. Through Nov. 29 at The Black History Museum, Richmond.

“A Distinct Society.” In a sleepy library that straddles the border of the U.S. and Canada, an Iranian father and daughter, separated by the “Muslim ban,” begin using the library as a meeting place. The French-Canadian librarian, an American border patrol agent, and a local teenager find their quiet lives suddenly full of excitement and consequence. Inspired by true events. Through Nov. 30 at Firehouse Theatre, Richmond.

“Lungs.” In this sharp, funny, and honest drama, a young couple faces the decision of whether or not to bring a child into a world full of political chaos and climate crisis. The play goes through years of conversations, arguments, and silences, exploring global disaster, personal anxieties, and modern love. Through Nov. 30 at The Basement, Richmond.

Brambly Park Artisan Market. The weekly market features local artisans selling handmade home décor, jewelry, apparel, ceramics, candles, and more. Grab food and drink from the Sundays, 3 to 7 p.m., through Dec. 14, at Brambly Park, Richmond.

“The Golden Girls: The Lost Episodes – The Holiday Edition.” Celebrate the season in sunny Miami with Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia in a new, humorous holiday presentation. Through Dec. 21 at Robert Moss Theatre, Richmond.

“It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play.” It’s Christmas Eve, 1946, and radio station WMAQ is hosting a live re-enactment of the well-known classic, with retro sound effects, commercial jingles, and an entertaining studio environment. Through Dec. 27 at Swift Creek Mill Theatre, South Chesterfield.

“‘I made this…’: The Work of Black American Artists and Artisans.” The first exhibition looking solely at the work of diverse Black artists and artisans from three centuries opens at the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. Through Dec. 31, 2025, at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, Williamsburg.

Winter Wander Trail of Lights. The beauty of light and whimsy of nature blend. Colorful lights blanket the rolling landscape and lakeside stroll. Through Jan. 3, 2026, at Boar’s Head Resort, Charlottesville.

GardenFest of Lights. Audiences take in millions of lights across the Garden exploring the theme of The Elements: displays inspired by fire, earth, air, water, and a special “fifth” element, love. Love is the invisible energy that binds us together and fuels creativity, compassion, and connection. Through Jan. 4, 2026 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.

Virginia Museum of History & Culture Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with Spring 2025 Exhibition and Related Events. “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation” opens as the first major show for the anniversary commemoration, accompanied by traveling presentations across the state. The exhibition delves into Virginia’s important role in the American Revolution, exploring the confluence of continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and often-overlooked people who together established a new nation and changed the world. The opening coincides with Patrick Henry’s “liberty or death” speech. Through Jan. 4, 2026, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.

Julien Creuzet. “Attila cataract your source at the feet of the green peaks will end up in the great sea blue abyss we drowned in the tidal tears of the moon” is an immersive video and sculptural installation that focuses on water as a site of both historical and contemporary traumas and emancipatory futures. The multisensorial project is deeply sonic and draws from hip-hop, jazz, and other musical forms and bodily gestures across the African diaspora. Through Feb. 22 at the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU, Richmond.

“House to Highway: Reclaiming a Community History.” The new exhibition explores the story of the first Black homeowner in the area now known as Jackson Ward and the removal of his house in advance of the construction of the Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike. The history anchors a larger national story of Black American experience from the founding of the nation through the Jim Crow era. Through Feb. 28, 2026, at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

“Generations: Stories of Asian Americans in Richmond” Exhibition. Richmond’s Asian American communities are one of the region’s most quickly growing populations. “Generations” shares stories of personal experience and cultural identity: how people found their way here and became integral parts of our local community. Through May 25, 2026, at The Valentine, Richmond.

“Following the Dragon” Special Exhibition. Explore the journey of Chinese Ming Porcelain to 17th-century Jamestown. See porcelain uncovered archaeologically during excavations of the 1607-1625 James Fort at Historic Jamestowne. Learn of unexpected cultural connections linking colonial Virginia with imperial China. Presented by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation in partnership with the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation. Through July 12, 2026, at Jamestown Settlement, Jamestown.

“West by Water: Richmond’s James River and Kanawha Canal.” The new exhibition features Richmond photographer John Henley and writer Harry Kollatz Jr. along the city’s historic James River & Kanawha Canal, which even after two centuries, remains to some, resident and visitor alike, elusive and mysterious. Through Sept. 7, 2026, at The Valentine, Richmond.

Virginia Museum of History & Culture Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with Spring 2025 Exhibition and Related Events. “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation,” the first major show for the commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, delves into Virginia’s role in the American Revolution, exploring the confluence of continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and often-overlooked people who together established a new nation and changed the world. Through Jan. 4, 2026. At the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond. Related events include:

• We The People: Through Jan. 3, 2027
• “Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619–1865”: Through July 4, 2027 (see below)
• Sail250 with Tall Ships RVA: June 12 to 15, 2026
• IllumiNATION: June to July 2026

“Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865.” Examining the lives of free Black Virginians from the arrival of the first captive Africans in 1619 to the abolition of slavery in 1865. Through powerful objects and first-person accounts, visitors see how Virginia’s people of color achieved -freedom, established communities, and persevered within a legal system that recognized them as free but not equal. Through July 4, 2027, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“Sculpting History.” The exhibition from the Valentine shows how those who created the Lost Cause narrative used cultural and social centers of power to make it successful: education, media, politics, money, religion, and violence. The exhibition demonstrates how sculptor Edward Valentine, Richmond leaders, and others around the country reframed the war. It uncovers the Lost Cause, its legacy, and those who resisted. The Valentine, Richmond.