More What’s Booming RVA: Dec. 4 to 11
Curated events and road trips in our one-of-a-kind Richmond calendar
Holiday happenings in Richmond and in three other special Virginia locations – from sacred to fun, Christmas to Krampusnacht. Plus art, AIDS memories, authors, markets, and more. What’s Booming in Richmond, Virginia, December 4 to 11, 2025.
Explore:
- Boomer’s Top 5 picks in RVA this week,
- The week ahead – below,
- Event news + a road trip – way below, and
- Our updated events page for Down the Road happenings and ongoing exhibitions and performances.
December 4 to 11, 2025
What’s happening in and around the Richmond region
Thursday, December 4
“Goodwill” Opening. Thirteen artists whose works reflect generosity in spirit, using color, experimentation, or transformation. Exhibition runs through Jan. 10, 2026. Opening reception on December 4, 5 to 7 p.m., at Bond Millen Gallery, Richmond.
My Memories of AIDS in Richmond, 1980s to 1990s. Beth Marschak, Richmond native, activist, historian, and co-author of “Lesbian and Gay Richmond,” shares the history of Richmond’s AIDS epidemic through personal stories and historical context, highlighting how the community, healthcare providers, and activists responded. December 4, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Bon Air Library, North Chesterfield.
Holiday Music with FluteForte. The local flute choir performs a selection of seasonal music. December 4, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at North Courthouse Road Library, North Chesterfield.
Artist Talk | Deborah Roberts, “Practice, Practice, Practice.” A look at the balance of vulnerability, discipline, and creative capital. Roberts is part of “Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys.” Live and livestream. December 4, 6:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.
Spending Christmas with Alicia Witt. A classically trained, award-winning pianist and Billboard Top 30-charting singer-songwriter, Witt’s full-length Christmas album (2024) features originals and holiday standards. She is familiar to Christmas movie fans for 10 holiday movies. December 4, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Atlanta Rhythm Section. For more than 50 years, the band has entertained audiences all over the world, with a sound all their own, as in “So Into You,” “I’m Not Gonna Let It Bother Me Tonight,” and “Imaginary Lover.” December 4, doors at 6:30 p.m., at The Beacon Theatre, Hopewell.
VCU Percussion Ensemble. FREE. Also available online. December 4, 7 p.m., at W.E. Singleton Center for the Performing Arts, Richmond.
The Bizarre Bazaar 50th Christmas Collection. More than 450 juried exhibitors from across the country showcase their latest gift lines, holiday décor, gourmet foods, books, handmade jewelry, clothing, accessories, crafts, lotions, and more. Through December 7 at Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond.
“Les Misérables.” The popular musical is a 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, in 19th-century France and the ideals of liberty and equality. Through December 7 at Altria Theater, Richmond.
Friday, December 5
Holiday Tea. Listen to holiday music and savor a variety of teas and pastries. Ages 50+. Dec. 5, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at Belmont Recreation Center, Henrico.
Friday at the Museum. Learn about Deep Run Schoolhouse, Henrico County’s historic two-room school that served the community from 1902 to 1911, in a re-created schoolroom of the period and an exhibit on education of the time. Dec. 5, noon to 4 p.m., at Short Pump Park, Henrico.
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.
Wish You Were Here: A Christmas Show. A variety show blending music, comedy, and storytelling, with proceeds benefiting local nonprofit Jacob’s Chance. Dec. 5, 7 p.m., at Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.
Rocky Mountain Christmas. See Boomer’s top picks.
RVA First Friday. On the first Friday of every month in Richmond, many local art galleries, museums, restaurants, and other organizations present live music and special events. Dec. 5, times vary.
This month’s featured events:
- RVA First Fridays Downtown. Art galleries and businesses along and near Broad Street, Richmond.
- VMHC’s First Friday. Museum admission, food trucks, live music, and family activities. This month with a history-infused Makers Market. FREE. 5 to 8 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, Richmond.
- First Friday Art Trolley. Virginia Rep pairs up with The Valentine for “A Christmas Carol” themed trolley with pop-up performances, characters, and theatrical moments, traversing a First Friday route. See website for trolley stops.
- 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, music, and visual arts. Dec. 5, 5 to 11 p.m., at Gallery5, Richmond.
Holiday Makers Market with Historic Inspirations. Inspired by the VA250th exhibition, the market features artists, artisans, and specialty vendors from across Virginia and the mid-Atlantic region, offering one-of-a-kind goods with both modern and historic inspiration, plus live demonstrations of crafts and trades. Dec. 5 and 6 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.
“Resonance.” Experience movement that echoes through space and soul with Conflux Dance Theater. Dec. 5 and 6 at Grace Street Theater, Richmond.
Saturday, December 6
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.
Christmas Village Market. Local vendors, food, and games. Dec. 6, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at First Baptist Church, Richmond.
Holidaze Market. Festive shopping featuring handcrafted creations from local crafters and artisans. Bring new unwrapped toys for 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.
“Cauleen Smith: Dusk of Dawn” Student-Led Tours. Get an insider look of a multimedia installation that explores the downfall of Richmond’s Confederate monuments and asks, “What now?” FREE. Dec. 6, 1:30 to 2 p.m., at Modlin Center, Richmond.
The Perfect Blend: A History of Tea. White, green, and black: what’s your favorite tea blend? Get steeped in the history of one of the world’s most popular beverages. Dec. 6, 2 to 3 p.m., at Deep Run Park, Henrico.
Christmas Tree Lighting. The City of Petersburg presents the annual holiday parade with heroic young Ramir Parker as Grand Marshal, plus festive music and illumination of the tree. Dec. 6, 3 to 7 p.m., in downtown Petersburg.
Liz Nance & Russell Lawson. The local musicians perform a wide mix of favorites – pop, country, bluegrass, Irish and American folk, oldies, light rock, jazz, and holiday music. Dec. 6, 5 to 7 p.m., at Virago Spirits, Richmond.
2025 BrewHoHo. Local books and authors. Dec. 6, 7 to 9 p.m., at Afterglow Coffee Cooperative, Richmond.
Tom Waits 76th Birthday Eve. See Boomer’s top picks.
Kadencia Orchestra: Tropical Christmas 2. See Boomer’s top picks.
J. Holiday. The DC-born and raised GRAMMY nominated R&B singer earned a Best Contemporary R&B Album Grammy nomination in 2009 for ”Back of My Lac,” which debuted at #1 on Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums. Dec. 6, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Merry Market. Talented local artisans present handmade gifts in a festive setting. Sip on seasonal beverages, indulge in sweet treats, and sing along to holiday tunes while browsing goods crafted from wood, clay, yarn, leather, glass, metal, and natural materials. Dec. 6 and 7, noon to 5 p.m., at Carriage House Lawn in Maymont, Richmond.
“The Nutcracker.” See Boomer’s top picks.
“The Nutcracker” from the Concert Ballet of Virginia. Presenting the troupe’s 49th annual full-length performance of the classic Tchaikovsky holiday ballet. Dec. 6 and 7, 13 and 14, 20 and 21, at Benedictine Schools of Richmond.
Sunday, December 7
Commonwealth’s Pearl Harbor Day Remembrance Ceremony. See Boomer’s top picks.
The Musical Life of Eliza Poe. Edgar Allan Poe’s mother was a highly-acclaimed and talented stage actress before her death from consumption at the age of 24. This program includes original songs and monologues from Eliza’s vast repertoire to tell her brief story of tragedy and triumph. Dec. 7, 2 to 3 p.m., at Historic St. John’s Church, Richmond.
“I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” The Virginians Chorus – the Richmond Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society – presents traditional, memorable Christmas music to usher in the holiday season. Dec. 7, 3 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.
Holiday Concert. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra presents a seasonal sing-along. Dec. 7, 4 to 5:30 p.m., at Petersburg High School, Petersburg.
Annual Candlelight Festival of Lessons and Carols. The Schola Cantorum presents new and familiar Christmas carols and anthems in the tradition of the “Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols” that was first held at King’s College Chapel in Cambridge, England, on Christmas Eve 1918. FREE. Dec. 7, 5 and 8 p.m., at Cannon Memorial Chapel, University of Richmond.
Gloria! Christmas Choir Concert. Choral and orchestral music to celebrate the season. FREE. Dec. 7, 7 p.m., at First Baptist Church, Richmond.
Monday, December 8
Lunch & Learn: The Politics of Freedom and the Battle of Fredericksburg. In December 1862, armies had ended active campaigning for the winter, but President Lincoln wanted a battlefield victory to bolster support for the Emancipation Proclamation on Jan. 1. Having replaced McClellan, he was counting on General Ambrose Burnside. Could Burnside deliver? Dec. 8, noon to 12:45 p.m., at The American Civil War Museum, Richmond.
Climbing Film Tour. A collection of short films from climbers and filmmakers around the world. Dec. 8, 6 to 8 p.m., at Väsen Brewing, Richmond.
“Harvey.” Ashland Theatre presents the cinematic story of Elwood P. Dowd (James Stewart), who makes friends with a spirit in the form of a large rabbit, Harvey, that only he sees (and a few others on occasion.) After his sister tries to commit him to a mental institution, a comedy of errors ensues, the family mends its wounds, and romance blossoms. Originally released on Dec. 21, 1950. All tickets 75 cents. Dec. 8, 7 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.
Tuesday, December 9
“Pipeline.” Newspaperman, author, and Richmonder Howard Owen presents his latest Willie Black mystery, set in Richmond. Dec. 9, 6 p.m., at Fountain Bookstore, Richmond.
Henrico Pops Chorus Holiday Concert. Holiday favorites, under the direction of Jennifer Grundy. Dec. 9, 7 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Henrico.
Voctave: “It Feels Like Christmas” Concert. The 11-person a capella group lands in Richmond for rich harmonies weaving Christmas cheer. Dec. 9, 7 p.m., at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, Henrico.
Wednesday, December 10
A Musical Offering: An Advent Organ Recital. Organist Cheryl Van Ornam performs works by Böhn, Carter, Dupré, and Guilain. FREE. Dec. 10, noon, at Grace & Holy Trinity Church, Richmond.
“We Are Not Numbers: The Voices of Gaza’s Youth.” Pam Bailey, co-editor, discusses stories of young people from Gaza, born under Israeli occupation and blockade. They have endured unspeakable struggles and losses yet keep fighting to be recognized as human beings with hopes, dreams, and lives worth living. FREE. Dec. 10, 7 to 9 p.m., at The Chapel @ Richmond Hill, 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.
Jackie Fabulous. High-energy, relatable comedy filled with bold stories about dating, family, and self-confidence. Her charismatic, feel-good style resonates with women 30+ and diverse audiences who love smart, empowering humor. Dec. 10, 7 p.m., at Funny Bone, Richmond.
Thursday, December 11
Artist Conversation | Arthur Jafa and Enjoli Moon. Arthur Jafa, artist and filmmaker, and Enjoli Moon, founder and director of the Afrikana Independent Film Festival, discuss Jafa’s use of cinematic qualities in his film and media. Live and livestreaming Dec. 11, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.
Sammy Obeid. Sharp, high-energy comedy with a clever blend of math jokes, cultural riffs, and quick-witted storytelling, a focus on upbeat, brainy humor. Dec. 11, 7 p.m., at Funny Bone, Richmond.
Will Downing. Known as The Prince of Sophisticated Soul, Downing’s repertoire consists of signature interpretations of R&B classics. His distinctive baritone voice resonates worldwide, with fresh melodies and lush arrangements that satisfy many musical palates. Dec. 11, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings. Performed by string quartet Listeso, the candlelight concerts return for a holiday performance including beloved Christmas classics. Dec. 11 and 19 at John Marshall Ballrooms, Richmond.
Cassandra Kim “A Winter’s Tale.” Anthropomorphic paintings of animals who survive the winter without hibernation. Opening reception, Dec. 11, 6 to 9 p.m.; exhibition runs Jan. 8 at Gramophone Winery, Richmond.
Road Trips
Three diverse Virginia holiday picks
Lights at the Lake. Drive through the park’s campground and beach area for a wonderland of festive light displays and community exhibits. Stop by the snack bar, roast s’mores at the campfire, purchase whole barbecue pork butts, and shop for themed merchandise. Dec. 5 to 7, 12 to 14, 5 to 8 p.m., at Bear Creek Lake State Park, Cumberland.
Grand Illumination. Celebrate the holidays with tradition and contemporary fun: Christmas tree lighting and weekend events, including the Celebration of the Yule Log, Grand Illuminations with fireworks, and an abundance of music, caroling, and cheer. Beginning Dec. 4 in Colonial Williamsburg.
Christmas in Middleburg. The historic Town of Middleburg, in the heart of Virginia’s horse country, hosts its annual holiday celebration. Traditional Christmas festivities include breakfasts, Middleburg Hunt Review, choir performances, and a Christmas parade with floats, troops, music, antique fire trucks, and animals. Plus shopping and dining throughout the town. Dec. 6, in Middleburg.
Explore future events and ongoing exhibitions and performances here.
Follow What’s Booming on Boomer.
Sign up at the bottom of our website for our twice-weekly newsletter.
