More What’s Booming RVA: Dec. 11 to 18

Holiday home tours, bird count, “Annie” and “Deathtrap” open, music, history, authors, event news, an OBX book, and more. What’s Booming in Richmond, Virginia, December 11 to 18, 2025.

Explore:

• Boomer’s Top 5 picks in RVA this week
• December 11 to 18, event news, and roadtrips – below
• Our updated events page for Down the Road happenings and ongoing exhibitions and performances.

December 11 to 18

What’s happening in and around the Richmond region

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, December 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, and a focus on upbeat, brainy humor. December 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. December 11, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings. Performed by string quartet Listeso, the candlelight concert returns for holiday performances of beloved Christmas classics. December 11 and 19 at John Marshall Ballrooms, Richmond.

Holiday Movies on the Big Screen. Head to Richmond’s historic movie theaters to catch the Christmas spirit with classic movies to capture your nostalgic bent.

• Ashland Theatre. “The Polar Express,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” “White Christmas,” “It’s a Wonderful Life,” and more. December 13 to 24 at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.
• The Byrd Theatre. “Elf,” “Home Alone 2,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” “It’s a Wonderful Life,” and more. Through December 24 at The Byrd Theatre, Richmond.
• Henrico Theatre. “A Christmas Story,” “Home Alone,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” and “The Polar Express.” Through December 22 at Henrico Theatre, Highland Springs.

Cassandra Kim “A Winter’s Tale.” Anthropomorphic paintings of animals who survive the winter without hibernation. Opening reception, December 11, 6 to 9 p.m.; exhibition runs Jan. 8 at Gramophone Winery, Richmond.

Friday, December 12

“Rock Castle Home” Documentary Film Screening. In the mid-1930s, the Blue Ridge Parkway was created to lure visitors to the mountains, and farm families had to be removed. Descendants today work to hold onto their past through photographs and stories. Followed by a discussion with the executive producer and director. Part of the House to Highway theme. Dec. 12, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

“Essence.” PAAL presents a major exhibition by acclaimed textile artist Elizabeth Anyaa. Born in Sierra Leone and trained in Finland, Anyaa blends traditional textile techniques with reclaimed materials, creating installations, wearable art, and décor that span African vibrancy and Scandinavian minimalism. Opening reception Dec. 12, 6 to 8 p.m. (artist talk at 7:30 p.m.), at The Petersburg Area Art League, Petersburg.

Hanover Christmas. Step into a candlelit woodland trail to see fellow travelers, shepherds, wise men, and angels and relive the birth of Jesus. Plus musical performances, dramatic reenactments, and an indoors reception. Suggested donation of $10 per person supports Camp Hanover. Dec. 12 and 13, 6 to 9 p.m., at Camp Hanover, Mechanicsville.

Sweet Potatoes Holiday Special. A Christmas celebration with a tribute set to Whitney Houston. The jazz quartet bends boundaries with soulful renditions of classic covers, originals, and spontaneous jams filled with vocal scats, violin riffs, and a dynamic rhythm section. Dec. 12, 8 p.m., at Révéler, Richmond.

Hand / Thrown Holiday Market. Featuring handmade ceramics by local artists and food from the Abby Moore Café. Dec. 12 to 14 at ICA at VCU, Richmond.

“Christ Is Born for You.” Chancel Choir, Youth Choir, Children’s Choir, the DBC Ringers, Orchestra, and congregational carols celebrate the season. FREE, food pantry donations welcome. Dec. 12 and 14 at Derbyshire Baptist Church, Richmond.

“Annie.” See Boomer’s top picks.

Ira Levin’s “Deathtrap.” The thriller is funny – until it’s fatal, as a playwright with writer’s block is visited by a former student with a potential masterpiece that could resurrect the playwright’s career. Dec. 12 to Jan. 18 at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.

Saturday, December 13

Westhampton Breakfast with Santa & Trolley Rides. Annual family-friendly event with the Jolly Old Elf and trolley rides along the Westhampton business corridor. Dec. 13, 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., at Westwood Fountain Diner, Richmond.

National Wreaths Across America Day. Virginia Department of Veterans Services (DVS) and community partners and volunteers hold wreath-laying ceremonies at the three DVS veterans cemeteries. Dec. 13 (times vary) at Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Amelia, the Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery in Dublin, and the Albert G. Horton, Jr. Memorial Veterans Day Ceremony in Suffolk.

Christmas Through the Centuries. Learn about holiday traditions from the 15th through the 20th centuries and how they shaped the customs we celebrate today. Dec. 13, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Henricus Historical Park, Chester.

Somewhereness. All beer, wine, and cider will have the majority of its ingredients from Virginia, including fields and forests. Plus Batteaux Coffee, Shalom Farms, and Powhatan artisans. Dec. 13, noon to 5 p.m., at Fine Creek Brewing, Powhatan.

Meet and Greet with Ray McAllister. Chat with Ray and grab his new, updated edition of “Okracoke,” telling the island’s story from Native Americans and European explorers to today’s artists, musicians, fishermen, and tourists. Plus stories of Blackbeard the Pirate’s bloody demise, German U-boat attacks off the coast, and the role of the iconic Ocracoke Lighthouse. Dec. 13, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Fountain Bookstore, Richmond.

TubaChristmas 2025. Presenting the 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.

“Making Spirits Bright!” Annual Holiday Concert. GreenSpring International Academy of Music presents a festive afternoon of holiday classics. Dec. 13, 3 p.m., at St. John’s United Church of Christ, Richmond.

A KOS and Susan Greenbaum Christmas. Holiday favorites from two of Richmond’s long-time favorites, presenting unique arrangements of seasonal songs. Dec. 13, 3 and 7 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Highland Springs.

Geminid Sky Watch. Experience the wonder of the night sky as the Geminid meteor shower reaches its peak. Watch for meteors as you learn astronomy facts from local experts. Telescopes available. Dec. 13, 10 p.m. to midnight, at Deep Run Park, Henrico.

Fan Holiday House Tour. See Boomer’s top picks.

Bingo Beer Holiday Market. Local artisans present their wares, in a local brewery, restaurant, and arcade. Dec. 13 and 14, noon to 5 p.m., at Bingo Beer, Richmond.

Build Workshop with LEGO Bricks. Teams of builders will collaborate to build famous moments from the American Revolution. The workshop provides tips for building with LEGO bricks. Suitable for all skill levels. All ages. Dec. 13 and 20, 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“The Nutcracker” from the Concert Ballet of Virginia. Presenting the troupe’s 49th annual full-length performance of the classic Tchaikovsky holiday ballet. Dec. 13 and 14, 20 and 21, at Benedictine Schools of Richmond.

“The Nutcracker” from Richmond Ballet. See Boomer’s top picks, Nov. 4.

Sunday, December 14

HAPPY HANUKKAH! 

RTA Run-a-Latke. A 5k and 1 Miler run/walk through the nearby neighborhood, plus a post-race party with hot chocolate, donuts, and latkes. Virtual option, too. Dec. 14, 9 a.m., beginning at Weinstein JCC, Richmond.

REWIND<<Fast/Forward. Immersive art installations from the performative to the cinematic, designed to engage visitors with contemporary art experiences while the museum’s collection of mid to late 20th-century art are off view during the museum’s expansion project. Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

Virginia House Holiday Open House. Visit the historic house decorated for the season. The English country manor was relocated to Richmond in 1925 as the home of Ambassador Alexander Weddell and his wife, Virginia. FREE. Dec. 14, noon to 4 p.m., at the Virginia House, Richmond.

Winter Wander. See Boomer’s top picks.

Yuletides Open House. See Boomer’s top picks.

Letterlocking. Learn about this centuries-old practice and techniques, then try it yourself. Dec. 14, 2 to 3 p.m., at Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, Glen Allen.

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.

Strangeways Holiday Market. Local artists and makers selling handmade home décor, art, jewelry, woodworking, vintage, handmade apparel, and more. Indoor and outdoor event. Dec. 14, 20, and 21, noon to 5 p.m., at Strangeways Brewing in Scott’s Addition, Richmond.

Audubon Christmas Bird Count. See Boomer’s top picks.

Monday, December 15

Henrico Concert Band Holiday Concert. Favorite holiday songs performed by Henrico Concert Band under the direction of Randy Abernathy. Dec. 15, 7 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Henrico.

Truetone Honeys Swingin’ Christmas Special. The sounds of jazz from the 1920s through 1940s and favorite nostalgic holiday tunes, from two of the best jazz bands on the East Coast: local trio the Truetone Honeys, and Posey Royale from Asheville, North Carolina. Vintage dress encouraged. Dec. 15, 7 to 11 p.m., at Gallery5, Richmond.

GardenFest for Fidos. Well-behaved leashed dogs and their owners can stroll through the holiday lights, enjoy food and drink at the café and Jingle Bar, and more. Dec. 15, 4 to 9 p.m., at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, 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.

Tuesday, December 16

“Men of Iron: The 28th Division in the Ardennes.” The 28th Division is the oldest in the U. S. Army, with some units tracing their lineage to pre-American Revolution. Its nickname became the “Iron Division.” Seven weeks after D-Day, they landed in France, marched through Paris, and saw heavy fighting in the Battle of the Hürtgen Forest and the Battle of the Bulge. Zoom presentation from the Virginia War Memorial. FREE, registration required. Dec. 16, 2 p.m., online.

“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.

The Taters Shiny & Brite Holiday Party. Featuring music from the group’s holiday album and more. Dec. 16, 7 p.m., at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

Clarke/Caputo/Randazzo Holiday Gala Show. The modern trio, with piano, drums, and bass, have a unique sound with an emphasis on improvisation. Their repertoire spans popular music of the 1950s to today. Dec. 16, 7 p.m., at Révéler Experiences, Richmond.

Christmas with the Richmond Pops. Richmond Pops Band and vocal soloists Sarah Walston and Tracey Welborn present a musical celebration of the holiday season, with band classics, Christmas carols, and other favorites. FREE, registration required and donations accepted. Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Exit 245. The all-male a cappella group from James Madison University makes music together while developing a brotherhood where guys can find a home. Dec. 16, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Wednesday, December 17

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

Senior Mornings: Ornament Making. Inspired by the pollinator plants featured in The Green, guests will make take-home ornaments using dried flowers to spruce up holiday decorations and hear about ecosystems and biodiversity. The Science Museum provides the supplies. 60+. Dec. 17, 8:30 to 10 a.m., at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

Thursday, December 18

Unlikely Collaborators: Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass, and the Promise of America. Douglass and Lincoln both had a vision that the U.S. should live up to its founding ideal of human equality, but they had different strategies for achieving that goal. In this lecture, Lincoln Prize-winning historian Jonathan W. White discusses his latest book, “Measuring the Man: The Writings of Frederick Douglass on Abraham Lincoln,” to explore how Douglass went from being a fierce Lincoln critic to an admirer. Dec. 18, noon, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Mac McAnally. The 10x Country Music Association Musician of the Year is performing in Hopewell as part of his North American All The Way Around tour. His songwriting credits include hit singles “Down The Road” (Kenny Chesney) and “Old Flame” (Alabama). He is a long-time member of Jimmy Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band and has played with George Strait, Martina McBride, Dolly Parton, Keith Whitley, George Jones, Brad Paisley, Toby Keith, Billy Joel, Trisha Yearwood, Reba, and others. Dec. 18, doors at 6:30 p.m., at Beacon Theatre, Hopewell.

Richmond Jazz Society Holiday Party. Featuring Weldon Hill (piano/keyboards), Desirée Roots (vocals), James “Saxmo” Gates (saxophones), Carl Lester-El (guitar), Mike Hawkins (bass), Billy Williams (drums), and special surprise guests, with new twists on holiday music. Dec. 18, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Holiday Road Trips

Three diverse Virginia picks

Holiday Candlelight Tours at Thomas Jefferson’s Retreat Home. Tour the historic home as it’s decked out in Federal-period holiday flair and learn how the Jefferson and enslaved families celebrated. Refreshments after the tour. Explore during the day or on the evening candlelight tours. Reservations required. Dec. 11, 12, 18, and 19, at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m., at Poplar Forest, Forest.

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. 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. Throughout December in Colonial Williamsburg.

News to Know

Tickets, Kwanzaa, used books, holiday pop-up, inspiring speaker

A Conversation with Kamala Harris – Ticket Presale. The former Vice President shares insights from her #1 New York Times bestselling book, “107 DAYS” and addresses concerns like how we find hope and resilience in the face of adversity. She looks at what it will take to move forward, especially for those feeling disheartened and disconnected from the political process. Presale (code: ALT25) on Dec. 11, 10 a.m. to 11:59 p.m.; public sales begin Dec. 12, 10 a.m.; event on Feb. 2, 2026, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

2025 Capital City Kwanzaa Festival. Elegba Folklore Society captures the spirit and significance of the African American and African world Kwanzaa holiday in the largest Kwanzaa celebration on the East Coast. With music, dance, and message, including the Ancestral Libation and Mishumaa Lighting Ceremony. Plus merchandise from the Ujamaa Market, food from the African diaspora at Karamu Kitchen, and kids’ activities. Dec. 27, 1 to 7 p.m., at  Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond.

Donate to the VMHC Used Book Sale. Bring your gently used hardcover and softcover fiction and nonfiction books to the museum store daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., through Dec. 28. Books should be in good condition and have a historical theme.⁠ Sale Dec. 30 to Jan. 11 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Fall Line Express. The luxury train-themed bar experience transforms the restaurant into a whimsical, vintage railcar atmosphere with immersive décor as well as seasonal cocktails and bites. Through Jan. 4 at Fall Line Kitchen & Bar, Richmond.

Chaunté Lowe to Keynote VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Women and Wellness Luncheon. The four-time Olympic track and field athlete (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016) will speak at the annual event raising funds for cancer research. Lowe was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer, an aggressive form of breast cancer, and garnered national attention for continuing to train for the 2021 Tokyo Olympics during and after her cancer treatment. Feb. 3, 11 a.m., at the Jefferson Hotel, Richmond.

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