More What’s Booming RVA: July 10 to 17
Events and news flashes in Boomer’s one-of-a-kind, curated Richmond calendar
Good Foods news, Heart OTW, Maggie Walker’s 161st birthday, an inspiring autism book, and more. What’s Booming, Richmond, Virginia, July 10 to 17, 2025.
Featuring:
- Boomer’s Top 5 picks in RVA this week,
- The week ahead – below,
- News to Know – at the end, and
- Our updated events page for Down the Road happenings and ongoing exhibitions and performances.
July 10 to 17, 2025
What’s happening in and around the Richmond region
Thursday, July 10
(Re)framing Protest (NOW) Conversation. A look at the intersection of art, activism, and public space with Richmond Free Press photojournalists Regina H. Boone and Sandra Sellars. In 2020, they documented acts of creative resistance, helping reshape Richmond’s cityscape, echoing current national calls for social justice. July 10, 6 p.m., at The Branch Museum, Richmond.
“Of Flesh and Blood.” The novel’s two authors, N.L. Lavin and Hunter Burke, discuss their macabre psychological thriller of a forensic psychologist tracking down the background of the Cajun Cannibal. July 10, 6 p.m., at Fountain Bookstore, Richmond.
Rejuice Your Summer Reading & Book Launch with Meg Medina. Summer reading suggestions and book talks for all age groups from children and young adults to fresh fiction and non-fiction recommendations. July 10, 6 to 8 p.m., at Book People, Richmond.
Talk | Frida’s America: Painting the Political. An examination of artist Frida Kahlo’s three years living in the U.S. – during the Depression, racial tensions, and the rise of fascism abroad – when she found her artistic voice and created political paintings. Also live-streamed. July 10, 6:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.
On the Air Radio Players. “An Hour of Dimension X,” an old-time radio show filled with live voices, live sound effects, and music. July 10, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Henrico.
Kim Waters. Heralded as “Simply one of the planet’s best saxophonists” by JazzTimes Magazine and the “Pied piper of Smooth Jazz” by Upscale Magazine, Waters has made his mark in urban smooth jazz and contemporary jazz. July 10, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Becoming Citizens Summer Intensive Class. A three-session intensive course preparing students to successfully complete the U.S. citizenship test, with opportunities to engage with experts in the history of Virginia and America and interact with original historical objects, maps, books, and documents. July 10, 17, and 24, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.
Richmond Symphony Summer Serenades. Intimate early evening performances Thursdays in July. Chamber music masterworks from three centuries. Settle into your seat for an enchanted hour of music, then stroll downtown for dinner. July 10, 17, 24, and 31, 6:30 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.
“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 Nov. 29 at The Black History Museum, Richmond.
Friday, July 11
Friday at the Museum – Virginia Randolph Museum. Learn more about the house once used as the home economics cottage for the Virginia Randolph Training Center. July 11, noon to 4 p.m., at Virginia Randolph Museum, Glen Allen.
Behind the Scenes Tour. See Boomer’s Top picks.
Henrico Live: Eli Lev. See Boomer’s Top picks.
Spirits with the Spirits Ghostly Tales Cocktail Tour. Drink in the thrills as you tour the rooms of the historic tavern, paired with tales of paranormal happenings and ghoulish stories told by “the spirits” and four custom cocktails. Multiple tours. July 11, 7:45 to 9:45 p.m., at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.
Mike Massé. The renowned cover artist performs acoustic rock covers of classic hits, performed with rich vocals and skilled guitar work that highlight his passion for timeless melodies. July 11, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Hanover Tomato Festival. See Boomer’s Top picks.
Art Beyond Limits. See Boomer’s Top picks.
Happy Birthday, Maggie Walker! The National Park Service celebrates the Richmond icon’s 161st birthday. Maggie Lena Walker was a pioneering Black banker, community leader, and woman of faith, hope, and courage.
- July 11: Specialized house tours and kids activities. At the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site, Richmond.
- July 12: Evergreen Cemetery Clean Up. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 50 Evergreen Rd., Richmond.
- July 15: House to Highway: Reclaiming a Community History Exhibition on display. Library of Virginia, Richmond.
- July 15: Maggie Walker Bus Tour with Gary Flowers. Registration required. 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., at St. Luke Legacy Center, Richmond.
- July 15: Park rangers lead a Jackson Ward walking tour. Meeting at 9:30 a.m., at the Maggie Lena Walker Memorial Plaza.
- July 19: Maggie Walker Day of Service. Registration required. Assembling at 8 a.m. in the courtyard of the Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site.
“Burial Tax.” Two estranged siblings and their spouses navigate an uncomfortable reunion at the old family lake house to spread their father’s ashes. July 11 to 27 at Firehouse Theatre, Richmond.
Saturday, July 12
Maker’s Yard Sale. Indoor sale for rehoming art and craft supplies. July 12, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.
General George Patton. Meet the General as he speaks of the historic V-E Day of World War II and the hard road to win the war, in a land where freedom hung in the balance. Presented by The Parsons’ Cause. July 5, 10 a.m., at Historic Hanover Courthouse, Hanover.
“Angelina’s Shake-a-Stick” Autism Book Talk with John Bryan. This encyclopedic gathering of the newest autism information, expertise, and guidance is presented by a Richmond local and autism grandfather, with contributions by autism celebrities. For autism families, professionals, and anyone interested in knowing more. The book’s throughline is the story of Angelina, now 9, and her challenges and triumphs. July 12, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Book People, Henrico.
In the Footsteps of Maggie Walker. A cultural history tour of Walker’s evolution from her birthplace in Church Hill to her elevation in Jackson Ward, a look at Black excellence and community building in early 20th century Richmond in light of its significance today. July 12, noon to 4 p.m., starting at Elegba Folklore Society, Richmond.
Arthur Ashe: A Champion of Tennis and Mankind. Stuart Thacker, tennis partner of Ashe, recounts their friendship. The presentation will look at tennis, friendship, resilience, and the social conditions that shaped two young boys in segregated Richmond. FREE, registration required. July 12, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Black History Museum of Virginia, Richmond.
Garden Variety String Band. The Richmond-based bluegrass band is inspired by old time, folk, and bluegrass music, presenting a nod to the past with a modern twist. July 12, 6 to 8 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.
The Dinner Detective Comedy Mystery Dinner Show. Solve an amusing mystery while eating dinner – and while knowing the culprit is somewhere among fellow diners. July 12 and 26, 6 to 9 p.m., at Hilton Richmond – Short Pump.
Art After Hours. A celebration of Frida Kahlo with a party hosted by Kelli Lemon and DJ Lonnie B, live music from Sounds Funny Band with Micah “Bam-Bamm” White, Latin rhythms, salsa dancers, and more. July 12, 7 to 11 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.
Kia Bennett. Settle in for an evening of smooth, soulful R&B infused with elements of jazz and neo-soul, showcasing rich vocals and emotionally expressive melodies. July 12, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
“The Spitfire Grill.” Human kindness, forgiveness, and hope are on full display as a rural town struggles to save The Spitfire Grill from bankruptcy. The healing story of a community’s rebirth is told through a beautiful folk-inspired score. July 11 to Aug. 2 at Swift Creek Mill Theatre, South Chesterfield.
Sunday, July 13
Collections Curiosities & Tours. Like most museums, the Henrico exhibition space is small compared to the number of artifacts it owns. From personal keepsakes to special donations, the collection spans several hundred years. Ages 10+. July 13, 2 to 4 p.m., at Recreation & Parks Administration Building, 6800 Staples Mill Rd., Henrico.
Meet the Marquis de Lafayette. A historic interpreter presents the distinguished Frenchman. Born into nobility, he came to America, served under General Washington in the Revolutionary War, and returned in 1824 to journey through 24 states – an American hero. July 13, 2:45 p.m. (following the “Liberty or Death” re-enactment at 1:30 p.m.), at St. John’s Church, Richmond.
The Birth of Jim Crow. In the wake of newly found freedom for African Americans came the birth of the insidious character known as “Jim Crow.” We explore the long history of Jim Crow, an influential silent film of the time, and repercussions that still affect our world today. All ages. July 13, 2 to 3 p.m., at Belmont Recreation Center, Henrico.
Nick Deez. The stand-up comedian is known for observational and often edgy humor. July 13, 6 p.m., at Funny Bone, Richmond.
Music in the Park. DJ Harrison (soul, funk, and R&B) performs live music on the lawn by the old Stone House in one of Richmond’s legendary parks. Take blankets, lawn chairs, and a picnic and take in music and fresh air. FREE. July 13, 6 to 8 p.m., at Forest Hill Park, Richmond.
Monday, July 14
“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. July 14 to Feb. 28, 2026, at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.
Tuesday, July 15
Senior Mornings: Summer Gardening and Cyanotype Art. Get tips for improving your gardening skills in the Virginia summer heat from the Science Museum’s horticultural team. Hear how they keep the SMV greenspace thriving. After that, learn a special technique to create cyanotype art, utilizing solar power. Ages 60+. FREE. July 15, 8 to 10 a.m., at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.
“Scattershots” with Derek Kannemeyer. A teeming, rollicking stew of lyrical light verse wit and whimsy, ranging from the learned to the loony; from Pushcart-nominated story pieces to participatory performance poems. Oddball entertainment guaranteed. July 15, 6 to 8 p.m., at Book People, Henrico.
Chris O’Leary & Gabe Stillman. Enjoy an evening of blues and roots music with influences of soul, R&B, and rock ’n’ roll. July 15, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Wednesday, July 16
“The Fate of the Day – The War for America, Fort Ticonderoga to Charleston, 1777-1780.” Author Rick Atkinson presents volume two of “The Revolutionary Trilogy.” July 16, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., at The Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.
Tell-Tale Talks with Chris Semtner. The museum curator, author, and artist discusses his newest book, “Edgar Allan Poe at Home.” July 16, 6 p.m., at The Poe Museum, Richmond.
Thursday, July 17
The Oasis: A High Noon Summer Concert Series. Live music from Q. Harmon Group (jazz) in the Valentine Garden. FREE. July 17, noon to 1 p.m., at The Valentine, Richmond.
Opening Celebration for “House to Highway: Reclaiming a Community History.” See Boomer’s top picks.
Four Gallery Exhibits Opening. “Environment at Risk,” focusing on Virginia environment harms and impacts; “Vibrant Visions,” blending electric color and exciting subjects; “A Moment in Time,” preserving memories with photography; and the Virginia Glass Guild Membership Exhibit of works of glass art. July 17, 6 to 8 p.m., at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.
Virtual Book Talk with Bradley Gottfried. On Aug. 28, 1862, Major General John Pope’s Army of Virginia clashed with “Stonewall” Jackson at Brawner Farm, setting the stage for a critical moment in Civil War history. Days later, the arrival of Lt. General James Longstreet changed everything. July 17, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the American Civil War Museum, Richmond.
Comedian Ben Brainard. Standing at only 5’5” and weighing in at 125 pounds, Ben is not an intimidating presence, but he’s got big punchlines: from jokes about his stature to hilarious stories about dating, jobs, general life mishaps, and his crazy family. July 17, 7 p.m., at Funny Bone, Richmond.
An Evening with David Nail. An evening of contemporary country music with strong influences of pop and rock, with soulful vocals and emotionally driven lyrics. July 17, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
“Generations: Stories of Asian Americans in Richmond.” Richmond’s Asian American communities are one of the region’s most quickly growing populations. In partnership with the Asian American Society of Central Virginia and the 1882 Foundation, “Generations” shares stories of personal experience and cultural identity: how people found their way here and how they are now an integral part of our local community. July 17 to May 25, 2026, at The Valentine, Richmond.
Get Groovy with Outdoor Concerts
- Westchester Concert Series. Biweekly through Aug. 7 at Westchester Commons, Midlothian.
- Innsbrook After Hours. Through Sept. 25 at Innsbrook Pavilion, Glen Allen.
- Groovin’ in the Garden. Monthly through Oct. 2 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.
- Allianz Amphitheater. Through Oct. 21 at Allianz Amphitheater at the Riverfront, Richmond.
- 68th Festival of the Arts. Through Oct. 24 at Dogwood Dell, Richmond.
Have a Ball with Local Sports Teams
News to Know
Good Foods, canceled shows, call for entries, and two new concert announcements
Good Foods Grocery Celebration. A ribbon-cutting event to kick off the store’s new seven-day-a-week opening hours. The store not only stocks local, organic and fresh produce, locally sourced groceries, and more, it’s also committed to meaningful employment for people on the Autism spectrum via its Career Readiness and Employment program. July 13, 10 a.m., at Good Foods Grocery.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” performances canceled this weekend due to cast member injury. Performances will continue July 17 to July 20, and have been extended to July 25 and July 27. At Agecroft Hall, Richmond.
September 2025 All Media Show: Flowers – Call for Entries. The juried show is open to mid-Atlantic artists, and cash prizes are awarded to the winners. The theme for this exhibit is “flowers.” Exhibition will run Sept. 19 to Nov. 9. Call for entry Aug. 1 to 17, submissions online. At Crossroads Art Center, Richmond.
Ann Hampton Callaway – The Streisand Songbook. Callaway, a gifted pop and jazz artist, presents the music of one of America’s most powerful musical artists, with timeless classics from Streisand’s five-decade, multifaceted career. Sept. 7, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, 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. Tickets on sale now with code CRAZY, general sales open July 11 at 10 a.m. Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.
Explore future events and ongoing exhibitions and performances here.
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