More What’s Booming RVA: December 12 to 19

Thursday, December 12

Vienna Boys Choir. The gifted, impeccably trained young singers sustain a musical tradition that dates back to the 15th century, an unbroken chain of artistry. Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m., at River Road Church, Richmond.

Puddles Pity Party. The sad seven-foot clown with a voice like a musical legend has become known for his YouTube performance and nearly 900k subscribers as well as shows around the world. Dec. 12, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

“Fiddler on the Roof.” The heartwarming tale of Tevye and his family’s struggles in a changing Russia is a musical tradition whose themes continue to be relevant. Through Dec. 15 at the Jewish Family Theatre and Sara Belle November Theater, Richmond.

“Mamma Mia!” Broadway in Richmond presents the fan favorite and global smash hit musical Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines. A tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. Through Dec. 15 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

“The Nutcracker.” The Richmond Ballet is accompanied by the Richmond Symphony for the classic Christmas ballet, with Richmond’s classic choreography by Stoner Winslett. Through Dec. 23 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

Holiday Movies at Ashland Theatre. Take in a diverse lineup of holiday favorites, including classics such as “White Christmas,” “It’s a Wonderful Life” (staged reading and film screenings), “The Polar Express,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, “The Grinch,” and “Home Alone.” Through Dec. 24 at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

Christmas Movies at The Byrd. Holiday movies humorous and heartwarming, for young and old: “Miracle on 34th Street,” “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” “Home Alone,” “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” “It’s a Wonderful Life,” and more. Through Dec. 25.

Friday, December 13

Community Portraiture in Southern Photography. Artists Rahim Fortune, Wendy Ewald, and Jim Goldberg discuss the meaning of community portraiture in Southern photography. Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

Crystal Visions. The Fleetwood Mac tribute band brings to life the timeless music of the iconic band. Dec. 13, 7 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

“The Greatest Gift.” The Chancel Choir, DBC Ringers, Instrumental Ensemble, soloist, and more re-tell the Christmas story. FREE (non-perishable food donations accepted). Dec. 13, 7 p.m., and Dec. 15, 3 p.m., at Derbyshire Baptist Church, Richmond.

“A Not So Silent Night” with Christine Havrilla Duo & Mama’s Black Sheep.Award-winning Philadelphia native Christine Havrilla has been touring for 25 years with her “Neofunkadelicfolkpoptwangrock” sound. She has shared the stage with KT Tunstall, Brandi Carlile, Shawn Colvin, America, and more. She also plays bass with Mama’s Black Sheep, as they collaborate for a fourth year on a holiday show. Dec. 13, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

“The Nutcracker.” Stavna Ballet presents the Tschaikovsky classic. Dec. 13 to 15 at Perkinson Center, Chester.

“The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.” See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.   

Saturday, December 14

Holiday Wreath Laying Ceremonies. December 14 is National Wreaths Across America Day, a day dedicated to honoring those who serve, remembering the fallen, and teaching the value of freedom to the next generation. Holiday wreaths will be placed on all graves of veterans and family members interred at the state veterans cemeteries, with speakers, national anthem, and colors.

• Dec. 14, noon (arrive by 11 a.m.), at the Virginia Veterans Cemetery, Amelia.
• Dec. 14, 1 p.m., at Southwest Virginia Veterans Cemetery. Dublin.
• Dec. 14, 9 a.m., at Albert G. Horton Jr. Memorial Veterans Cemetery, Suffolk. 

Holiday Open House. Activities, refreshments, and chances to learn about community clubs and partnerships. Dec. 14, 9 to 11 a.m., at Belmont Recreation Center, Henrico.

Santa Paws. Get a free picture of your furry friends with Santa and Mrs. Claus in a winter wonderland. Breakfast food truck and pet-friendly vendors available. Dec. 14, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Short Pump Park, Henrico.

Somewhereness Beer Festival. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.   

“Making Spirits Bright.” GreenSpring’s harp ensemble and choristers present the annual holiday concert of beloved classics. Dec. 14, 3 p.m., at St. John’s United Church of Christ, Richmond.

Shakes-N Not Stirred Presents: A Christmas Carol. Classical works with a twist! Local actors and improvisers tackle the classic Christmas tale while also tackling drinks, with improvisation, audience participation, and imbibing. Ages 18+. Dec. 14, 6:30 p.m., at Kindred Spirit Satellite, Richmond.

The Music of Paul Williams. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.   

Holiday Open House. Hot cocoa bar, crafts, guided tours, and more. FREE. Dec. 14 and 15, noon to 5 p.m., at The Branch Museum, Richmond.

’90s Mall Holiday Market. Local shopping, pictures with Santa, food court snacks, and the Bingo arcade. Dec. 14 and 15, noon to 5 p.m., at Bingo Beer Co., Richmond.

Fan Holiday House Tour. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.

Sunday, December 15

RTA Run-A-Latke. Choose from 1 mile, 5k, and virtual 5k options, at your own pace, with a post-race party of donuts, hot chocolate, and latkes. Dec. 15, 8 a.m., at Weinstein JCC.

Virginia House Holiday Open House. FREE. Dec. 15, noon to 4 p.m., at Virginia House, Richmond.

Christmas with Elvis & the Long Live The King Orchestra. The 12-piece Long Live the King Orchestra, aka Charlottesville’s Big Ray and the Kool Kats, open with holiday favorites and maybe even a little Motown. Matt Lewis presents Elvis Christmas tunes and other hits. Dec. 15, 2 and 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Holiday Classics from Richmond Allied Voices. A collective of three choruses – The Men’s Chorus, The Treble Chorus, and the Noteables – performs classics from medieval times to today. Dec. 15, 4 to 5:30 p.m., at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Richmond.

Holiday Sounds from the Richmond Concert Band. FREE. Dec. 15, 4 to 5:30 p.m., at Tabernacle Church, Richmond.

Tommy Emmanuel with Stanley Jordan. The talented guitarist can play three parts at once, with heart, soul, and joy. Dec. 15, 7 p.m., at The Beacon Theatre, Hopewell.

Monday, December 16

Bach by Candlelight. Chamber Music Society of Central Virginia. Elegant and emotional music from J. S. Bach’s solo cello suites and violin partitas, played in candlelight. Intimate music for a winter’s night. Dec. 16, 7 to 8:45 p.m., at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, Richmond.

Holiday Concert. The Henrico Concert Band celebrates the holidays with favorite seasonal songs. Dec. 16, 7 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Henrico.

“Little Women.” The Ashland 1949 Film Series continues, presenting films from 1949. Based on the Louisa May Alcott autobiographical book “Little Women,” the film stars Elizabeth Taylor as Amy and Janet Leigh as Meg. All tickets $5. Dec. 16, 7 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

2024 USA Boxing National Championships. More than 900 boxers from across the country compete. The championships mark the beginning of the new Olympic quad, help determine USA Boxing’s junior, youth, and elite High Performance teams for 2025, and provide experience for competitors in younger age divisions. Dec. 16 to 21 at Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond.

Tuesday, December 17

Feathered Festivities: A Holiday Bird Count. Join fellow bird enthusiasts and nature lovers on a guided walk along scenic trails, observing and identifying various bird species. For experienced birders and beginners to connect with nature and contribute to citizen science. Dec. 17, 8:30 to 10 a.m., at Tuckahoe Creek Park, (Old Coach Lane entrance), Henrico.

LEGO Brickumentary Film Screening. A documentary exploring the simple toy with unique properties that stimulated creativity and captured imaginations for generations. FREE. Dec. 17, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Wild, Wacky and Truly Wonderful Women of Song: Christmas, Take Two. Yuletide tunes that evoke smiles and laughter. Dec. 17, 7 p.m., at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

Commonwealth Concert Opera: Naughty or Nice? You decide who’s been naughty or nice with an entertaining selection of Christmas songs. CCO is dedicated to creating opportunities for young and seasoned singers and a venue for learning opera and Art Song repertory. Dec. 17, 7:30 p.m., online and at In Your Ear Studios, Richmond.

Exit 245. In 1998, a group of gentlemen came together to perform renditions of popular tunes using nothing but their voices. The a cappella group chose the name Exit 245 from the exit on I-81 to James Madison University. Dec. 17, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Wednesday, December 18

Ken Ludwig’s “Moriarty: A New Sherlock Holmes Adventure.” See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.   

Thursday, December 19

Virginia Roots Music Series – Gone Country. Richmond’s ’90s/’00s band performs Alan Jackson and their own music, in celebration of the release of Hardywood Raspberry Stout, brewed with chocolate malt, cacao nibs, and red raspberries from Agriberry Farm. Dec. 19, 6 p.m., at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery on Ownby, Richmond.

American Tune: Simon, Croce, & Taylor feat. Tom Glynn. Take a trip back to the 1970s with the timeless music, storytelling, and lyrics of Paul Simon, Jim Croce, and James Taylor. Dec. 19, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

News to Know

#1 in lights + a great female athlete coming to town

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Dominion Energy GardenFest of Lights has been voted the Best Botanical Garden Holiday Lights for the second year in a row by USA Today 10Best.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee to Headline the RVA Sports Awards. The legendary athlete is headline speaker at the event celebrating top RVA athletes. Joyner-Kersee earned three Olympic gold medals, four World Outdoor Championships gold medals, and the still-standing world record of 7,291 points in the women’s heptathlon. Her inspiring career continues to break barriers and elevate the impact of sports. Feb. 8, 2025, at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Road Trips

Light up the season

Candlelight Christmas. Enjoy an evening of 18th-century Christmas cheer with a blend of modern traditions. Hear festive sounds of holidays past with music and caroling and see how soldiers and colonists may have prepared for a holiday evening. Children can meet Santa, make holiday crafts, and decorate the Christmas tree. Dec. 14, 6 to 8 p.m., at the American Revolution Museum, Yorktown.

A Spirited Christmas: An Evening with SPIRITS Museum. Raffle, curator-led tours, holiday market, and cocktails. FREE. Dec. 17, 5 to 7 p.m., at the SPIRITS Museum at 8 Shires Coloniale Distillery.

Lights at the Lake. Visitors drive through the park’s campground and beach area to experience a wonderland of lights and community displays – this year in honor of first responders – plus activities and refreshments. Dec. 13, 14, and 15, from 5 to 8:30 p.m., at Bear Creek Lake State Park, Cumberland.

Colonial Williamsburg Grand Illumination. Seasonal music, lighting of the cressets, a Fife & Drums procession, and fireworks for the first three Saturdays in December. Other special programming during the week. Dec. 14 and 21, 5 to 7:30 p.m., in Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area.