More What’s Booming RVA: Jan. 15 to 22
Curated events, road trips, and event news in our one-of-a-kind Richmond calendar
Concerts, celebrations and service in honor of Martin Luther King Jr., honoring Religious Freedom Day, artists, authors, a road trip, and “historic” news. What’s Booming in Richmond, Virginia, January 15 to 22, 2026.
Explore:
- Boomer’s Top 5 picks in RVA this week,
- January 15 to 22 – below,
- Event news + a road trip – way below, and
- Our updated events page for Down the Road happenings and ongoing exhibitions and performances.
January 15 to 22, 2026
What’s happening in and around the Richmond region
Thursday, January 15
“Still Light” + Viewfind XIV.” Opening reception for artist Pam Fox (“Still Light”) and a group exhibition. Exhibitions run through Feb. 28. January 15, 5 to 7 p.m., at Bond Millen Gallery, Richmond.
RVA Green Drinks: Featuring the Environmental Film Festival. Trailers for the upcoming EFF in a community of environmentally conscious Richmonders. January 15, 5:30 to 7 p.m., at The Answer Brewpub, Richmond.
River in Winter: Avian Ecology. Lesley Bulluck of the VCU Avian Ecology Lab presents ongoing research on prothonotary warblers and other bird species. January 15, 6 to 8 p.m., at Reedy Creek Nature Center, Richmond.
Historians on Tap: Uncivil Wars. Local historians Alison Herring, Emmanuel Dabney, and Joe Rizzo dive into tales of eccentric characters and unusual events from the Civil War era, revealing the unexpected ways the era shaped our community. January 15, 6:30 p.m., at Blue Bee Cider, Richmond.
Film | “We Want the Funk!” A syncopated voyage through funk music’s history from its African and jazz roots to James Brown’s early work and the rise of Parliament-Funkadelic, how funk became a force of cultural resistance and self-determination. Rare footage, legendary performances, and interviews with funk pioneers. January 15, 6:30 to 9 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.
Cactus Tate. The fearless performer tackles taboo topics with wit and charm, winning audiences with her honesty and charisma. Known for her bold approach and unique perspective. January 15, 7 p.m., at Funny Bone, Richmond.
Jarrod Lawson. Smooth, modern soul rooted in classic ’70s R&B, blending warm vocals with jazz-influenced harmonies and thoughtful, introspective lyrics. His music feels intimate and timeless, pairing laid-back grooves with emotional depth. January 15, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Richmond Yiddish Week. This new festival invites Richmonders of all backgrounds to explore Yiddishkayt (Yiddish culture).
- Workshop: The Struggle with God in Modern Yiddish Poetry. Many Yiddish poets wrote from a place beyond the binaries of religious faith and disbelief, struggling with God and religion. The group reads and discusses Yiddish poems in English translation that present these experiences and yearnings. January 15, 7 p.m., at Quarry in Carytown, Richmond.
- What is Yiddishkayt? An Introduction to Yiddish Language and Culture. Exploring the history of Yiddish, and the richness of its art and culture, and its enduring power and meaning in our multicultural world. January 16, noon to 1:30 p.m., at the University of Richmond (venue TBA).
“King James.” See Boomer’s top picks.
Friday, January 16
Life, Liberty & Happiness. On Religious Freedom Day, hear from Jonathan Turley, author of the forthcoming book, “Rage and the Republic: The Unfinished Story of the American Revolution.” FREE. Sponsored by The Valentine, presented Jan. 16, 3 to 4:30 p.m., at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.
January Open House & Artist Reception. Gallery Member Exhibition themed “New Beginnings,” the Juried All-Media show, and an exhibit by photographer Scott Church. Accompanied by a live performance at 6:30 by Babs Mohammed on Dejembe drum, telling of the Takia or Naabewu dance. Browse art throughout the galleries and enjoy drinks and food. Jan. 16, 5 to 8 p.m., at Crossroads Art Center, Richmond.
32nd Annual James River Short Film Showcase. See Boomer’s top picks.
Trial by Fire – Tribute to Journey. What would the Trial by Fire Journey tour have looked like if Steve Perry hadn’t injured himself? Jan. 16, doors at 6:30 p.m., at Beacon Theatre, Hopewell.
Joe Enroughty and the Royal Virginians. Big Band entertainment featuring Big Band names like Guy Lombardo, Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, Count Basie, and more, along with new classics from The Beatles, The Carpenters, Barry Manilow, Jimmy Buffett, and others. Jan. 16, 7 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Highland Springs.
Sharon Rae North. Presenting modern jazz from a powerhouse singer, blending serious and playful styles. Jan. 16, 7 p.m., at Révéler, Richmond.
Tommy Davidson. High-energy, character-driven stand-up with sharp social commentary, personal storytelling, and observations about race, culture, and relationships. Jan. 16 and 17 at Funny Bone, Richmond.
MLK Week Events. See Boomer’s top picks.
Saturday, January 17
The Homegrown Health Faire. A variety of vendors with sprouted greens, fresh sourdough bread, and much more, plus demos and speakers on food and nutrition, herbal traditions, sound bath, and more. Browse, ask questions, and discover new ways to support healthy living. Jan. 17, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Montpelier Center for Arts & Education, Montpelier.
Festival of Wood & Fire + New RVA Brewery. See Boomer’s top picks.
Orchard Wassail Party. Sing and wake the sleeping tree spirits, bless the trees for a fruitful harvest, and get loud to frighten off evil spirits in the orchard. Hot wassail cider (inc. NA), bonfire, crown workshop, smash burgers (inc. GFO and VEG), and wassailing at 5 p.m. Costumes encouraged. Jan. 17, 3 to 6 p.m., at Courthouse Creek Cider, Goochland.
“An African American Requiem.” Within the traditional Latin text, Damient Geter’s Requiem weaves the words of victims of lynching and of those who dared speak out. “We need to memorialize these folks, … to keep their names alive,” the composer said. Music performed by Richmond Symphony and the Richmond Symphony Chorus. Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m., and Jan. 18, 3 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.
“Undeniable: The Designs of Christian Siriano + Ashley Longshore.” See red-carpet fashion worn by stars like Beyoncé, Oprah Winfrey, Céline Dion, Sia, and Lady Gaga, alongside bold, larger-than-life paintings that surround the gallery with color and energy. Presented in partnership with VCUarts. Opening Jan. 17, noon; on display through March 22, at The Branch Museum of Design, Richmond.
Sunday, January 18
Friendship Circle of Virginia’s 3rd Annual Disability Expo. A gathering of nonprofits, service providers, and businesses offering vital resources and support for individuals of all ages with disabilities and their families. Jan. 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Dewey Gottwald Center, Richmond.
Self Care Sunday Market. Local artists and makers selling handmade home décor, art, jewelry, apparel, and more. Jan. 18, noon to 5 p.m., at Hardywood on Ownby, Richmond.
Monday, January 19
MLK Day of Service in Chesterfield. Virginia State University and Chesterfield County present volunteer opportunities. See link for options in Chesterfield and Greater Richmond. Jan. 19 at various times and venues.
Tuesday, January 20
Senior Science: Slump Molds & Glazing. A two-part ceramics workshop for seniors. All materials provided. On Jan. 20, guests build slump molds. On Jan. 28, they can drop in to glaze their pieces to be kiln-fired. Registration required. Jan. 20, 4 to 6 p.m., at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.
“To Hell and Back” with Bill Blume. The author discusses his book about a pair of swordfighters who also help with exorcisms, but when a demon kills a family member, they go on a quest for revenge. Jan. 20, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Fountain Bookstore, Richmond.
VA250 Author Visit: Alan Pell Crawford. Author and historian Alan Pell Crawford discusses his latest book, “This Fierce People: The Untold Story of America’s Revolutionary War in the South,” a compelling new perspective on the southern theater of the Revolution. Jan. 20, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Midlothian Library, Midlothian.
Villages – Shockoe Sessions Live. Presenting the indie-rock passion project of Richmond-based songwriter Justin Paciocco. Emotionally resonant songwriting and a top-shelf supporting cast with genuine, heartfelt performances. Jan. 20, 7:30 p.m., at In Your Ear Studios, Richmond.
“Back to the Future: The Musical.” See Boomer’s top picks.
Wednesday, January 21
Artist Conversation | Nick Cave. A featured artist in “Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys” joins Valerie Cassel Oliver for a conversation about his artistic practice and body of work, which includes his Soundsuit series. Jan. 21, 6:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.
Jelani Cobb on the Life and Legacy of MLK. The award-winning journalist and Dean of the Columbia Journalism School joins RMC President Michael Hill in a conversation about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during a week of programming at RMC celebrating the slain civil rights leader. Cobb’s most recent book, “Three or More Is a Riot,” reflects on how social movements have evolved. FREE, registration required. Jan. 21, Blackwell Auditorium at Randolph-Macon College, Ashland.
Thursday, January 22
Virtual Talk: Displacement in Virginia – Urban Renewal in Roanoke. Explore the history of urban renewal in Roanoke and its impact on the Black community. Beginning in 1955 and continuing throughout the 20th century, much of Roanoke’s Black neighborhoods were destroyed by urban renewal projects to build an interstate, parking lots, and a civic center. Presented by the Library of Virginia. FREE. Jan. 22, noon to 1 p.m., online.
MLK Week Keynote Celebration. Conversations with community leaders, connection opportunities, art, music, food, and more. FREE, registration required, and non-perishable food items and coat donations welcome. Jan. 22, 5 to 8 p.m., at the Institute for Contemporary Art, Richmond.
“After the Fire: Richmond in Defeat.” Dr. Nelson Lankford discusses Richmond’s rebirth after the 1865 fire, in a compelling look at a city reshaped by war. Jan. 22, 6 p.m., at the American Civil War Museum, Richmond.
River in Winter: JRPS Invasive Species Task Force. An overview of the new JRPS Natural Resource Management Plan. Jan. 22, 6 to 8 p.m., at Reedy Creek Nature Center, Richmond.
Laser Show: Led Zeppelin. A fabulous light display accompanies the music of Led Zeppelin for a “whole lotta love.” Jan. 22, 6:30 and 8:15 p.m., at the Dome, Science Museum of Virginia.
Road Trip
Pairing history & beer
Oozlefinch Screening of Ken Burns’s “American Revolution.” The Hampton brewery presents all six episodes of the new documentary on the American Revolution. Drink in the early history of our nation while sipping craft beers. Starting on Jan. 15, the series presents two episodes per month through March 28, starting again on April 9 through June 27, then all episodes on July 4, noon to midnight. At Oozlefinch Beers & Blending, Fort Monroe.
News to Know
Garden classes, Civil War opera, an engaging YouTube history series, and Culturescapes
Classes at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Cooking herbs, floral design, art, beekeeping, and more – adult learners will find an abundance and variety of classes at the Garden, both repeat favorites and new options. All year long at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.
Virginia Opera Presents “Intelligence.” The critically acclaimed Civil War spy opera comes to Virginia fresh from a 2026 GRAMMY® nomination. Inspired by the true story of two women who built one of the most daring Union spy networks of the Civil War, a true story of espionage, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom. Elizabeth Van Lew, a socialite from a prominent Confederate family, ran a secret pro-Union spy network that fed intelligence to the North. She was assisted by Mary Jane Bowser, an enslaved woman. Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 1, 2:30 p.m., in Norfolk. Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 8, 2:30 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond. Feb. 14, 7:30 p.m., and Feb. 15, 2 p.m., in Fairfax.
“Historically Correct.” History comes to life through fun, engaging storytelling that you can enjoy from the comfort of – wherever you want! Produced by the American Battlefield Trust in partnership with VA250, the show features host and high school history teacher Nicholas Ferroni. Local history episodes in Scotchtown, Revolutionary Richmond and Yorktown. Online.
Culturescape Saturdays. The Library of Virginia has announced a new series exploring the intersections of art, culture, history, and community across Virginia. The first in the series kicks off Black History Month, honoring Black artists and storytellers, with a pop-up exhibition highlighting local Black artists, a genealogical presentation, resource sharing, and more. Jan. 31, noon to 3 p.m., at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.
Explore future events and ongoing exhibitions and performances here.
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