More What’s Booming RVA: June 26 to July 4
Boomer’s one-of-a-kind, curated look at Richmond events plus day trips and news
This week’s curated calendar presents patriotic events – including an Independence Day preview – plus authors, artists, musicians, roads trips, and more. What’s Booming, Richmond, Virginia, June 26 to July 4, 2025.
Featuring:
- Boomer’s Top 5 picks in RVA this week
- The week ahead, below
- Our updated events page for Down the Road happenings and ongoing exhibitions and performances.
June 26 to July 4
What’s happening in and around the Richmond region
Thursday, June 26
Short Pump Town Center Summer Concert Series. The Deloreans ’80s tribute band plays live. June 26, 5 to 8 p.m., at the Main Plaza Short Pump Town Center, Short Pump.
“The Californians” with Brian Castleberry. Local writer speaks with Rachel Beanland about his latest novel, spanning generations and a continent. June 26, 6 p.m., at Fountain Bookstore, Richmond.
Pride Summer Solstice Unhappy Hour. Celebrate the sun and the freedom to be, with live music and a special drag show (cash suggested to tip the performers!). Adult beverages. June 26, 6 to 9 p.m., at The Poe Museum, Richmond.
In the Studio with … Kathy Rivera. Mix and mingle with the artist, followed by a lecture. June 26, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.
Author RVA: On “Dream State” with Eric Puchner. A blend of book discussion and examination of writing and editing processes. June 26, 6:30 p.m., at the Institute for Contemporary Art, VCU, Richmond.
Anand Pandian, “Something Between Us: The Everyday Walls of American Life, and How to Take Them Down.” The author argues that while our impasses draw from deep histories of segregation and suspicion, mutual aid can surface radical visions for a life in common with others and teach us how to meet strangers as potential kin. June 26, 7 p.m., at Shelf Life Books, Richmond.
Washington Takes Command. Ages 10+. In June 1775, George Washington took command of the newly formed Continental Army. Historian Bert Dunkerly explores the general’s challenges and lessons learned. Ages 10+. June 26, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Belmont Recreation Center, Henrico.
Max Muscato – The Lunatic Tour. The rock singer-songwriter and guitarist blends classic rock, pop rock, alternative, and hard and emo-infused quirkiness. With Patrick Zampetti, known for guitar-driven acoustic rock and folk-infused indie rock. June 26, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Road to Virginia Quilters Conference. A colorful array of vendors and classes. June 26 to 28 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond.
Friday, June 27
Resistance and Freedom in Richmond’s Court End. Stories of urban slavery, resistance, and resilience. The guided tour includes the White House of the Confederacy and offers a glimpse into the fight for emancipation. June 27, 10 to 11:30 a.m., starting at the John Marshall House, Richmond.
How to Create a Portfolio Website. Part of an ongoing summer workshop series for artists, sharing how to present work professionally and expose it to a wider audience. June 27, 10 a.m. to noon, at Crossroads Art Center, Richmond.
4th Friday Art Shows and Opening Reception. Exhibits feature the theme of discovery through textile sculptures, photography, “Hidden Pieces,” Turkish art, and AI. June 27, 6 to 8 p.m., at Art Works, Richmond.
Davy Knowles. Playing acoustic, mandolin, national steel, and electric guitar, Knowles has top blues albums and has explored other genres. June 27, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Hill of Heroes. The annual display of 12,000 American flags returns, to honor Virginia men and women who died in military service from World War II to present day. Volunteers needed to place flags: June 27, 8 a.m. Flags will remain through July 11 at the Virginia War Memorial, Richmond.
Ashland Fourth Friday. See Boomer’s Top picks.
After 5 Fridays | Summer Breeze. DJ and dancing in the Sculpture Garden. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs. Beer, wine, and snacks available for purchase. FREE. June 27, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.
“Ayida.” A group exhibition of five artists celebrating the Caribbean and its diaspora, investigating the material, spiritual, and intellectual cultures of Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and elsewhere. Gallery talk with guest curator Serubiri Moses. June 27, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.; exhibition runs June 27 to March 8, 2026, at the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU, Richmond.
Saturday, June 28
Richmond Public Library Ripplecon. The 3rd Annual Fandom Convention features workshops, comics, gaming, vendors, photo ops, cosplay contest, and celebrity guests. FREE. June 28, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Richmond Main Library, Richmond.
Maggie L. Walker from The Parson’s Cause. See Boomer’s Top picks.
Love on Tap: A Celebration of Queer Love and Resistance. Marking the 10th anniversary of marriage equality with live music, drag performances, special beer release, market. June 28, noon to 10 p.m., at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery on Ownby, Richmond.
“Reclaiming Southside” with Mattie Coll. This collection of vignettes and poems about coming of age in the South speaks to Coll’s experience as a young lesbian and 20th-century movements that have shaped America. Shows how far we have come since the ’50s and still need to go in the search for equality. June 28, 1 to 3 p.m., at Book People, Richmond.
Stealing the Night: The Underground Railroad. The underground railroad in Virginia and across the South was made of many heroes who saved countless lives. The legacies of the conductors and passengers will be explored and remembered. FREE. June 28, 2 to 3 p.m., at Henrico Recreation and Parks, Henrico.
Rhythm & Resistance: Black Sonic Rebellion from Plantation to Playlist. See Boomer’s Top picks.
National Night Out Kick-Off. Hosted by the Chesterfield County Police Department, with live music, vendors, and more. June 28, 3 to 7 p.m., at Westchester Commons, Midlothian.
Celebrating the Music of Bill Withers. See Boomer’s Top picks.
Stonewall on Stonewall. Honoring the 55th anniversary of the Stonewall protests, which kickstarted the LGBTQ equality movement. Music, food, drinks, rainbow decorations, information, and a parade. June 28, 4 to 7 p.m., along Stonewall Avenue in Woodland Heights, Richmond.
Celebration of the Music of Barry White, Gerald Levert & Keith Sweat. Modern singers Texx Williams and Craig T. Dobson honor three musical geniuses: Barry White, known for his bass voice and romantic image; Gerald Levert, part of the R&B vocal group LeVert; and Keith Sweat, an early figure in the jack swing musical movement. June 28, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Sunday, June 29
Peter White. A versatile and prolific acoustic guitarist performing contemporary jazz. He combines elements of jazz, pop, and classical guitar. June 29, 3 and 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
America’s Birth Certificate. Profs & Pints Richmond takes an in-depth look at the Declaration of Independence and its impact, with Richard Bell, professor of history at the University of Maryland. June 29, 4 to 6 p.m., at Triple Crossing Beer – Fulton, Richmond.
Tuesday, July 1
“The Virginia Continental Line in the Revolution’s Southern Campaigns.” Author John C. Settle explores the overlooked history of the Virginia Line in the American Revolution. July 1, 6 to 8 p.m., at Book People, Henrico.
The Unteachables Comedy Tour. Presenting a humorous perspective on a Southern upbringing from Stephen Taylor, and on public education and marriage from Lou Pharis. July 1, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Funny Bone Comedy Club, Richmond.
Wednesday, July 2
“Brothers in Arms: Remembering Brothers Buried Side by Side in American World War II Cemeteries” with Kevin M. Callahan. Featuring over 700 historic photographs and other artifacts, the book puts a face and story to brothers buried in sacred places, in 14 locations around the world, holding the remains of over 90,000 fallen Americans. July 2, noon, at the Virginia War Memorial, Richmond.
Summer Nights at the Perk. Live music, local food, drinks, and vibes. This week presenting Sammy Lee, rooted in blues tradition, Motown acoustic; unique and soulful. Registration required. July 2, 6 p.m., at the Perkinson Center, Chester.
Live at The Branch: Mini-Concert with Ari Voxx & The Lads. DC’s Dreamy Pop Princess produces a sound heavily inspired by ’80s/’90s new-wave and pop artists, with misty soundwaves, pulsating beats, and precise, dynamic vocals. July 2, 6 p.m., at The Branch Museum of Design, Richmond.
Thursday, July 3
The Oasis: A High Noon Summer Concert Series. Live music in the Valentine Garden returns with a diverse lineup of music every Thursday in July. FREE. Noon to 1 p.m., at The Valentine, Richmond.
- July 3 – The Trey & Erica Experience (Vocal Soul)
- July 10 – Curvey Reid Trio (R&B)
- July 17 – Q. Harmon Group (Jazz)
- July 24 – Marlysse y Mini Ritmo (Latin)
- July 31 – The Funk Masters (Funk)
Friday, July 4 (+ patriotic road trips below)
HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!
Independence Day at Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier. Activities, musket and cannon demonstrations, programs such as Civil War weaponry, and an author presentation on “The Virginia Line in the Southern Campaign.” July 4, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Pamplin Historical Park, Petersburg.
Revolutionary Richmond Bus Tour. Learn of Richmond’s role in the American Revolution, from Patrick Henry’s speech to Benedict Arnold’s raid, and explore how the legacy of the Revolution has been preserved and contested over the generations. July 4, 10 a.m. to noon, beginning at The Valentine, Richmond.
July 4th Naturalization Ceremony. Welcoming new U.S. citizens in an official ceremony (11 a.m., seating limited, also streamed live), reception (noon to 1 p.m.), and American treasures on exhibit with scavenger hunt (noon to 2 p.m.). July 4, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.
Liberty or Death Public Reenactment. Nine professional actors portray delegates to the Second Virginia Convention, held here 250 years ago, with Patrick Henry’s rousing words, “Give me liberty or give me death.” Plus a reading of the Declaration of Independence. July 4, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., at Historic St. John’s Church, Richmond.
Red, White, and Lights 2025. Music from the Richmond Symphony, food, history and historical reenactments, and a laser light show. July 4, 4 to 10 p.m., at Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, Glen Allen.
Fourth of July Celebration. Live music from BrassWind and the Dixieland Express, food vendors, entertainment, fireworks, and more. July 4, 5 p.m., at Chesterfield County Fairground, Chesterfield.
The Big Show. Richmond’s favorite Independence Day tradition presents Full Spectrum, Virginia Opera, the Richmond Concert Band, and fireworks. July 4, 5:30 p.m., at Dogwood Dell, Richmond.
Get Groovy with Outdoor Concerts
- Westchester Concert Series. Biweekly through Aug. 7 at Westchester Commons, Midlothian.
- Innsbrook After Hours. Through Sept. 25 at Innsbrook Pavilion, Glen Allen.
- Groovin’ in the Garden. Monthly through Oct. 2 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.
- Allianz Amphitheater. Through Oct. 21 at Allianz Amphitheater at the Riverfront, Richmond.
- 68th Festival of the Arts. Through Oct. 24 at Dogwood Dell, Richmond.
Have a Ball with Local Sports Teams
News to Know
Day of History + George Michael tickets
Conrad M. Hall Symposium for Virginia History. Full day of 16 panels with 50 experts that highlight groundbreaking research into Virginia history, highlighting the theme of “revolution” and a special keynote lecture. Oct. 4, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.
“The Life and Music of George Michael” Tickets on Sale. The concert-style show revives the performer’s magic, chronicling his musical journey and connection with fans. One night only. Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.
Road Trips
Revolutionary celebrations
Capture the Spirit of 1776. Take in an outdoor performance of “1776: The Musical,” a comedy based on the events leading up to the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Plus catch the VA250 Mobile Museum Experience exhibit, “Out of Many, One,” commemorating the 250th anniversary of the founding of our nation and Virginia’s vital role. Picnics welcome; wine, beer, and cider available for purchase. June 26 to 28 at Poplar Forest, Lynchburg.
Fourth at the Fort. Part of VA250, the celebration of Virginia’s role in the founding of the nation, the day features ceremonies, activities, demonstrations, entertainment, patriotic music, and a drone and fireworks show. Look for the sections highlighting Virginia history, art, and food and drinks. July 4, 8:45 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., at Fort Monroe.
Explore future events and ongoing exhibitions and performances here.
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