What’s Booming RVA: Throwbacks and Memories

By Annie Tobey | August 21st, 2025

Boomer’s top picks for the week ahead


Two people make cotton candy, for throwbacks and memories. Image by Paul Hakimata

Experience English country dancing, eat cotton candy at the fair, celebrate the Allied victory, enjoy Good Shot Judy for a good cause, and gain empathy for Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers. “What’s Booming RVA: Throwbacks and Memories.”


Virginians Will Dance or Die! – 18th Century Music and Dancing Demonstration

In colonial-era Virginia, music, and dance filled taverns and private homes. Presented by Joshua LeHuray, author of “Virginians Will Dance or Die!: The Importance of Music in Pre-Revolutionary Williamsburg.” Members of the Colonial Dance Club of Richmond, accompanied by musicians of RVA Baroque, will demonstrate and teach a beginner lesson in English country dancing.

Aug. 21, 5:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

VirginiaHistory.org

“The Father” Film and Q&A for Alzheimer’s Awareness

The film centers on an 80-year-old London man who is experiencing memory loss and confusion from dementia. His daughter tries to care for him but faces challenges as he resists her help and grows increasingly suspicious. The film will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A session in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association.

Aug. 21, 6:30 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

AshlandTheatre.org 

Chesterfield County Fair

Catch the fun with rides, food, games, competitions, entertainment, vendors, and more. The county fair – an American tradition! Notes: 17 years and young only admitted with adult or 21+ chaperone; clear bag policy.

Aug. 22 to 30 at Chesterfield County Fairground, Chesterfield.

ChesterfieldCountyFair.org

World War II 80th Anniversary Weekend

Celebrating Allied victory over the Axis Powers of with a living history event to include activities, demonstrations, artifact displays, presentations, and the VA250 Mobile Museum. Partner museums include MacArthur Memorial, U.S. Army Quartermaster Museum, U.S. Army Ordnance TSF, U.S. Army Women’s Museum, and the Virginia War Memorial, each with displays. Presentations by authors and historians throughout the weekend. Actor and historian Charles Wissinger portrays Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Lieutenant Audie Murphy.

Aug. 23 to 24, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, Petersburg.

PamplinPark.org 

Good Shot Judy – Lakewood’s Benefit for Crossover Ministries

Lakewood Retirement Community hosts the benefit for CrossOver Ministry, a nonprofit organization that provides high-quality, compassionate healthcare to uninsured and Medicaid patients. The band presents classic vocal jazz, delivering a performance that fuses big-band swagger with nostalgic charm.

Aug. 24, 2 to 4 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

TinPanRVA.com 

Check websites for more details, including prices and registration requirements.


More of What’s Booming in Richmond besides throwbacks and memories

Food and more fun to fill your plate

Boomer’s featured flavor of the week:

Two recommended restaurants from “100 Things to Do in Richmond Before You Die”

And more to throw on your calendar:

More from Boomer