More What’s Booming RVA: Oct. 23 to 30

Pecans and other tasty festivals, improv intro, concerts, Kickers finale, magic, lectures, tickets, and more. What’s Booming in Richmond, Virginia, October 23 to 30, 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.

October 23 to 30, 2025

Thursday, Oct. 23

Jazzing Up the ’60s. Flowers After Five presents popular songs from the decade of transformation and love, with a jazzy twist. Oct. 23, 5 to 8 p.m., at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.

Asia Booth Clarke, with Lisa Samia: Virtual Talk. The story of Asia Booth Clarke’s life is relatively unknown, but she chronicled the Booth family through her letters, poems, and books. In her memoir about her infamous brother John, Asia condemned his murderous act, but she continued to love him, even despite the damage his action had on her. Hosted by the American Civil War Museum, Richmond. FREE. Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m., online.

Blackbird, Fly. A tapestry of movement, narrative, music, and Haitian folklore engages audiences in dialogue about critical questions of our time. Steeped in hip-hop aesthetic, the duet unveils their life stories in search of their identities and role models, while exploring universal themes of tolerance and inclusion. Oct. 23, 7:30 p.m., at Camp Concert Hall, University of Richmond.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy. The 32-year-old band was at the forefront of the swing revival of the 1990s, blending a vibrant fusion of the classic American sounds of jazz, swing, and Dixieland, with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture. Oct. 23, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Jen Silverman’s “Witch.” See Boomer’s top picks. 

Gallery at First UU. The 58th show of juried arts and crafts in varied media, from more than 160 artists presenting up to 4,000 pieces. Through Oct. 26 at First Unitarian Universalist Church, Richmond.

Friday, October 24

Art of Wine | Oysters & Rosé. Rosés, sparkling wines, and lighter-bodied reds paired with Virginia oysters. Oct. 24, 5 to 7:30 p.m., at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

Opening Reception of “Interwoven.” This all-media group exhibition celebrates the creative achievements of 14 artists who spent the last six months as VisArts Studio Access Residents. Exhibition from October 24 to 26. Reception on Oct. 24, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Visual Arts Center, Richmond.

4th Friday Art Shows and Opening Reception. For Halloween, featuring an Escape Room exhibit, Cloaked in Mystery all media show. Cosplay costumes welcome. Artists, live music, refreshments, and libations. Oct. 24, 6 to 8 p.m., at Art Works Gallery, Richmond.

Lantern Walk: Grimm & German Ghosts. A stroll through the park blending storytelling, cultural insights, and a spooky glow. Hear selections from the original, dark Brothers Grimm fairy tales and enjoy glimpses into Germany history and culture. All ages. Oct. 24, 7 to 8:30 p.m., at Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, Glen Allen.

Fourth Friday Jazz Nights. Presenting Kelli Strawbridge. FREE. Oct. 24, 7 to 11 p.m., at Gallery5, Richmond.

Skip Castro Band. In 1978, four Virginia musicians came together and formed a band, blending rhythm and blues, swing, boogie-woogie, and rock ’n’ roll as the base. Oct. 24, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

“Voices from the Shadows: Edgar Allan Poe Edition.” A Halloween experience on two evenings, with candlelight tours to spooky, re-created scenes of Poe’s work, led by the master of suspense. Preregistration required. Oct. 24 and 25, 6:30 and 8 p.m., at Pamplin Historical Park & The National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, Petersburg.

3 Redneck Tenors. See Boomer’s top picks.

Saturday, October 25

Cap Trail 10M & 5k. Runners, walkers, and fall lovers can celebrate the season with a spirited run/walk along the scenic Virginia Capital Trail. The fully supported routes offer river views and fall colors. The race includes costume contests and a post-run celebration at Stone Brewing. Oct. 25, starting at 8 a.m., along Wharf Street, Richmond.

“House to Highway: Reclaiming a Community History” Symposium. A day exploring the themes highlighted in the Library’s exhibition, including urban renewal, historic preservation, and Black history. FREE, registration required. Oct. 25, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Library of Virginia, Richmond.

Fugitive Data Portraits: Self-Emancipation in Virginia. A discussion with Tev’n Powers, a software engineer, data scientist, linguist, and 2024 Public Humanities Fellow, who presents this digital history project that transforms archival fragments into vivid, human-centered “data portraits.” FREE, registration required. Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Black History Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

“Nowhere Land.” Pamela K. Kinney signs her monsters and creatures book, set near Gloucester, Virginia. Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Book People, Richmond.

Scarytown. Carytown presents a day of spooky fun, featuring the annual Zombie Walk, pet and person costume contests, scary movies at The Byrd, and more. Oct. 25, noon, throughout Carytown.

10th Annual Pecan Festival. See Boomer’s top picks.  

Intro to Improv Drop-In Class. Interested in improv? Looking for a place to escape and laugh? This pay-what-you-will intro class is a fun, low-pressure way to try out improv – no experience needed. 18+. Oct. 25, 1 to 2:30 p.m., at Bridge 9 Theater, Richmond.

The Salem Witch Trials. Explore a dark time in history when the devil was said to roam in the hearts of humans and beasts and when superstition overrode common sense. Ages 16+. Oct. 25, 2 to 3 p.m., at Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, Glen Allen.

“Off the Rails” Craft Beer & Wine Festival: Brews, Boos, and BBQ. Craft beer, wine, barbecue, vendors, lawn games, live music, and more. Supporting local arts and community programming. Oct. 25, 3 to 7 p.m., in downtown Ashland.

Richmond Kickers Season Home Finale. The hometown soccer team presents Fan Appreciation Night as it battles Forward Madison FC. Oct. 25, 6 p.m., at City Stadium, Richmond.

15th Annual Celebration of Dance. A gathering of independent choreographers, student dance clubs, and UR dance companies that light up the stage with a wide range of dance styles and music. FREE. Oct. 25, 7:30 to 9 p.m., at Alice Jepson Theatre, University of Richmond.

“Ballads of Appalachia.” Southwest Virginia native Elsa Howell and family perform – singing and picking to authentic mountain ballads. Oct. 25, 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., at Congregation Or-Ami, Richmond.

Minsoo Sohn Plays Chopin. The masterful pianist, “born to play the piano” per Boston Globe, performs Frédéric Chopin’s Second Piano Concerto. The concert of great romantics also features “Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana” by Pietro Mascagni and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Second Symphony. Oct. 25 to 26 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

Sunday, October 26

Harvestfest at the Garden. Live music, seasonal crafts, comfort foods, and educational demonstrations. Oct. 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.

Fall Choral Concert. Schola Cantorum present a program of accompanied and a cappella choral works from a variety of time periods and traditions. FREE. Oct. 26, 3 to 4:30 p.m., at Camp Concert Hall, University of Richmond.

The Soul Shakers. The Richmond music veterans play a mix of classic R&B, Southern soul, and Motown, plus a range of classic artists such as Delbert McClinton, Van Morrison, Wilson Pickett, and others. Food vendors and beverages on site. Take lawn chair or blanket. Oct. 26, 3 p.m., at the Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

Honoring Our Past, Creating Our Future. New music director Alexander Wilkerson and the Petersburg Symphony present selections by Rossini, Coleridge-Taylor, and Dvorak. Oct. 26, 4 to 5:30 p.m., at Petersburg High School, Petersburg.

Tuesday, October 28

Introduction to Virginia Genealogy. Library of Virginia’s Senior Reference Archivist shows how to get started with genealogical research: types of records, helpful websites, helpful research tips, and more. Beginner level. Ages 16+. Oct. 28, 10 a.m., at Belmont Recreation Center, Henrico.

Animal Photography 101. Henrico Humane Society presents a lunch ’n’ learn on capturing stunning photos of pets. FREE. Oct. 28, noon to 1:30, at Furbish Thrift Annex, 2843 Hathaway Rd., Richmond.

“Recipes from the American South.” See Boomer’s top picks.

Joanne Shaw Taylor. See Boomer’s top picks.

Wednesday, October 29

Silver Screen Movie – “Little Shop of Horrors.” Watch a classic and humorous “horror” film starring a mysterious, blood-loving plant. All tickets and concessions just one dollar. Oct. 29, 10 a.m. to noon, at Henrico Theatre, Highland Springs.

America Returns: The 81st Anniversary of the Battles of Leyte and Leyte Gulf.The Leadership in America lecture welcomes Michael Bell, combat veteran and historian. Oct. 29, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Virginia War Memorial, Richmond.

Thursday, October 30

“Poplar Forest: Thomas Jefferson’s Villa Retreat.” The author and former director of architectural restoration at Poplar Forest in Bedford, Virginia, looks at the President’s private retreat. Presented in person (tickets required) and livestreaming. Oct. 30, noon, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Distill My Heart. A Halloween four-course pairing dinner featuring the liquors of Copper Fox Distillery. Costumes encouraged. Oct. 30, 6:30 to 9 p.m., at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.

The Magic of Eric Eaton. Bringing quick wit comedy and mind-blowing magic in an adults-only show. Oct. 30, 7 p.m., at Funny Bone, Richmond.

Dreamers’ Circus. The Scandinavian trio blend their Nordic roots and an adventurous attitude for an original sound. Pre-concert talk at 6:30 p.m., concert 7:30 to 9 p.m., at Camp Concert Hall, University of Richmond.

John Splithoff. A blend of soulful pop, R&B, and funk presented with smooth vocals and groove-driven instrumentation. Oct. 30, 8 p.m., at the Tin Pan, Richmond.

Day Trip

Pumpkins paired with history

Menokin Pumpkins Illuminated. The historic property presents a glowing harvest festival celebrating the cornucopia of the Northern Neck. Lighted sculptures, regional artists, craft demonstrations, a conservation and makers market, pumpkin patch, food and drink, and more. Varied activities each day. Oct. 24 to 26 at Menokin, Warsaw.

News to Know

Antiques, local Annie, and the Wiz

Local Performer Returns from Broadway for “Annie.” Not tomorrow, but soon, Cadence presents the optimistic musical of the plucky red-headed orphan, her faithful furry friend, the wealthy but generous Daddy Warbucks, and the character we love to hate – Miss Hannigan, played by Mary Page Nance. Nance grew up in Richmond, took classes at SPARC, and appeared in many local performances. She has since appeared in four Broadway shows. “As a Carol Burnett Superfan, this role has been on my bucket list since approximately birth,” said Mary Page Nance. Dec. 12 to 21 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

Tickets for “The Wiz” on Sale Friday. The groundbreaking twist on “The Wizard of Oz” tells the tale of Dorothy’s journey to find her place in a contemporary world, backed by an iconic score of soul, gospel, rock, and ’70s funk. Tickets go on sale Oct. 24, 10 a.m. Production runs April 21 to April 26 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

78th Annual Antiques Forum: That the Future May Learn From the Past – registration is now open. The program commemorates 250 years of American independence, celebrates 100 years of collecting and bringing history to life at The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, and explores past inspiration and future influence through the lens of material culture and the decorative arts. Feb. 19 to 25 at Colonial Williamsburg.