Make Plans for These Richmond Events

Events after January 8

“Legend of the Poinsettia.” Latin Ballet of Virginia presents its annual production of the legendary Mexican tale of a pure-hearted young girl who discovers the true spirit of giving. Jan. 9 to 11 at Perkinson Center, Chester.

 Ideas Evolve & Hands Create: Kuumba Afrikan American Quilters Guild of Richmond Gallery Opening. A collective of African American women whose hands transform ideas into textile expressions. Through fabric and thread, they craft art quilts that explore cultural heritage, social justice, and personal identity. FREE. Opening Jan. 10, 2 to 4 p.m.; on display through March 1, at Perkinson Center, Chester.

1950s Monthly Movie Series. Ashland Theatre presents top movies from the 1950s. All tickets for the series will be just 75 cents. All showings begin at 7 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

• Jan. 12, DOA
• Feb. 9, Rashomon
• March 9, Born Yesterday (Academy Award Best Picture Nominee)
• April 13, The File on Thelma Jordan
• May 11, Stage Fright
• June 15, In a Lonely Place
• July 13, All About Eve (Academy Award Best Picture Winner)
• Aug. 10, Les Enfants Terribles

Richmond Shakespeare 27th Season. Five plays explore identity, ambition, and the contradictions of being human. “One of the most complicated things about being human is our constant negotiation with our own identities. In our lives we adopt roles, whether they are social, cultural, gendered, political or moral – to gain freedom, power, love,” says artistic director James Ricks.

• “King James” by Rajiv Joseph, Jan. 15 to Feb. 1, 2026, at Theatre Gym. “King” LeBron James’s years playing in Cleveland bring promise, prosperity, and renewal to a city in desperate need of all three. His tenure also unites Shawn and Matt in an unlikely bond forged by fandom. The men navigate their turbulent friendship through their shared love of basketball – and endless amiable arguments.
• “Macbeth” by William Shakespeare, March 27 to April 12, 2026, at Gottwald Playhouse. Ambition runs red in this gripping tale of power, prophecy, and betrayal. When Macbeth receives a haunting prediction from three mysterious witches, he and his wife set forth on a bloody path toward the throne of Scotland, no matter the cost.
• Richmond Shakespeare Festival begins with “As You Like It” by William Shakespeare at Agecroft Hall. Banished from court and cast into the Forest of Arden, Rosalind disguises herself as a boy and discovers that love, freedom, and self-discovery thrive far from the rules of society. As shepherds, fools, lords, and lovers wander through the woods, mistaken identities and unexpected romances blossom under the trees.
• Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” at Agecroft Hall. Lies, love, and low-stakes scandal collide in the deliciously absurd comedy of manners. Jack and Algernon each invent fictional alter egos, both conveniently named Ernest, to dodge social obligations and pursue romance, but their schemes unravel when their lies catch up with them.

River in Winter: Avian Ecology. Lesley Bulluck of the VCU Avian Ecology Lab presents ongoing research on prothonotary warblers and other bird species. Jan. 15, 6 to 8 p.m., at Reedy Creek Nature Center, Richmond.

Edgar Allan Poe’s Birthday Bash. The Embalmers set the musical tone, while Richmond Haunts tell ghost stories, 1115 Mobile Kitchen dishes out sustenance, and Richbrau Brewing provides beer. Jan. 17, 6 to 10 p.m., at The Poe Museum, Richmond.

Shady Grove Coffeehouse 2025-2026. Performances at Unitarian Universalist Community Church, Glen Allen.

• Dana Robinson, Jan. 17
• The Honey Dewdrops, Feb. 21
• Bill Evans – The Banjo in America with Babi Evans

“Back to the Future: The Musical.” The sensory-filled live experience is based on the 1985 movie, as teenaged Marty McFly is accidentally transported back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his friend, Dr. Emmett Brown. Before he can return to 1985, Marty must make sure his high school-aged parents fall in love in order to save his own existence. Jan. 20 to 25, 2026, at Altria Theater, Richmond.

“The Pursuit of Liberty: How Hamilton vs. Jefferson Ignited the Lasting Battle Over Power in America.” Bestselling author and president of the National Constitution Center Jeffrey Rosen explores the clashing visions of Hamilton and Jefferson in a debate that continues to define and divide our country: how do we balance liberty and power? Jan. 21, 5:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, 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.

Collections Up Close: Mountains in Virginia. Join staff behind the scenes in the museum’s storage area to examine collection items. Jan. 24, 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

River in Winter: Atlantic Sturgeon. Matt Balazik of VCU presents the history of the Atlantic sturgeon in the James River and their return after years of decline, plus ongoing research. Jan. 29, 6 to 8 p.m., at Reedy Creek Nature Center, Richmond.

Ari Shapiro: Thank You For Listening. Known widely as an NPR journalist, Shapiro is becoming one of America’s beloved storytellers. His new cabaret solo show is hilarious and moving, adapting tales from his best-selling memoir, “The Best Strangers In the World,” into an evening of stories and songs about the power of listening to forge connections. Jan. 29, 2026, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

“Echoes of a Dream.” A documentary examines Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy in Virginia, the dream and the unfinished struggle. Film screening and panel discussion. FREE, registration required. Jan. 31, 2 p.m., at the Black History Museum, Richmond.

A Conversation with Kamala Harris. The former Vice President and presidential candidate 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. Feb. 2, 2026, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, 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.

The Imaginaries. Husband and wife duo Shane Henry (guitar, vocals) and Maggie McClure (piano, vocals) form a unique blend of Americana music. Feb. 7, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Defiant Spirits. Virago Cocktails, small plates, and discussions highlighting the exhibition “Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865,” covering stories of Black Virginians who were living free during the time of slavery. This event features the story of John Dabney, who became renowned for his signature mint julep while still enslaved. Feb. 11, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Relationships Forged in War Symposium. The American Civil War was not only a clash of armies and ideologies but also a crucible in which bonds were formed. Loyalty, friendship, family, and even enmity were shaped and tested both on the battlefield and within the halls of government across a divided nation. The 2026 ACWM Symposium explores the human connections that emerged from conflict. Feb. 13 to 15 at the American Civil War Museum, Richmond.

Legends on Grace: Nightcaps & Stories.  Traditional cabaret-style performances with legendary Virginia artists. Subscriptions on sale now.

• My Funny Valentine: An Evening with Scott Wichmann + Friends – Feb. 14
• Laura Ann Singh + Rosette – April 25

78th Annual Antiques Forum: That the Future May Learn From the Past. 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.

Kadencia! Bomba, Plena and Salsa. Using bomba, plena, and salsa to promote Puerto Rican culture. Pay what you can. Feb. 21, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Voices of Freedom: Songs and Stories of the Underground Railroad. Connect with the voices of the past and reflect on the enduring quest for freedom and justice. Through the combined artistry of Sheila Arnold’s storytelling and Phillip Bullocks’s musical direction, “Voices of Freedom” immerses participants in the bravery, struggles, and triumphs of the Underground Railroad era. Feb. 27, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Virginia Wine Expo 2026. Returning to venues in and around Richmond, Feb. 28 to March 8, 2026.

Virginia Repertory Theatre’s 2025-2026 Season, still to come:

• Eboni Booth’s off-broadway hit, “Primary Trust.” March 5 to 29, 2026, at the November Theater, Richmond.
• Sandy Rustin’s “The Cottage.” March 27 to April 26, 2026, at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.
• Kids’ performance, “The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley.” April 8 to May 3, 2026, at the November Theater, Richmond.
• Tony Award-winning hit, “Come from Away.” June 18 to Aug. 2, 2026, at the November Theater, Richmond.

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus. Blending classic American circus traditions with a modern twists, through circus feats, comedy, and old-time vaudeville, this high-energy performance celebrates the weird, the wonderful, and the wildly entertaining. All ages. March 6, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Inaugural Salute to Service Reunion Celebration. A special day dedicated to reuniting Operation Desert Storm & Operation Desert Shield Virginia veterans, honoring their service, and commemorating the 35th anniversary of the conflict. Guest speakers, musical performances, film screenings, a wreath-laying ceremony, and more. Veterans and families can request an invitation to be part of this meaningful event. March 21, 2026, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Virginia War Memorial, Richmond.

The Bizarre Bazaar 34th Spring Market. More than 275 juried exhibitors from across the country will display new spring gift lines, accessories for the home and garden, fine art, handmade jewelry, gourmet foods, clothing, toys, quality crafts, lotions, soaps, pottery, bulbs, plants, and more. April 10 to 12, 2026, at Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond.

Davis Sedaris. The humorist and author brings his sardonic wit and incisive social critiques to Richmond with new readings, a Q&A, and book signings. April 17, 2026, 8 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

The Crooked Road on Tour: The Blue Ridge Girls and Junior Sisk. The Blue Ridge Girls trio is rooted in Appalachian folk music. Showcasing skillful musicianship and vocal harmonies, they perform a mix of traditional standards and Blue-Ridge-breathed originals. Sisk is one of today’s leading voices in traditional bluegrass music. A native of the Virginia Blue Ridge, he grew up in a musical family and was influenced early on by bluegrass legends. April 18, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

“The Wiz.” 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. April 21 to April 26 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Killer Queen: A Tribute to Queen. Featuring Patrick Myers as Freddie Mercury, the group has been performing their tribute to Queen since 1993. May 1, 8 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

“& Juliet.” Part of Broadway in Richmond, “& Juliet” flips the script on the greatest love story ever told and asks: what would happen if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Instead, she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love – her way. May 12 to 17 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

“Let’s Go to the Movies!” Joyful Voices, a chorus for singers with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their caregivers, presents its fall chorus. May 14, 11 a.m., at Salisbury Presbyterian Church, Midlothian.

Ongoing Performances & Exhibitions

Around Richmond, and the occasional road trip

Winter Wander Trail of Lights. The beauty of light and whimsy of nature blend. Colorful lights blanket the rolling landscape and lakeside stroll. Through Jan. 3, 2026, at Boar’s Head Resort, Charlottesville.

GardenFest of Lights. Audiences take in millions of lights across the Garden exploring the theme of The Elements: displays inspired by fire, earth, air, water, and a special “fifth” element, love. Love is the invisible energy that binds us together and fuels creativity, compassion, and connection. Through Jan. 4, 2026 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.

Virginia Museum of History & Culture Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with Spring 2025 Exhibition and Related Events. “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation” opens as the first major show for the anniversary commemoration, accompanied by traveling presentations across the state. The exhibition delves into Virginia’s important role in the American Revolution, exploring the confluence of continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and often-overlooked people who together established a new nation and changed the world. The opening coincides with Patrick Henry’s “liberty or death” speech. Through Jan. 4, 2026, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.

“Goodwill” Opening. Thirteen artists whose works reflect generosity in spirit, using color, experimentation, or transformation. Exhibition runs through Jan. 10 at Bond Millen Gallery, Richmond.

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. Through Jan. 18 at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.

“Table of Resilience.” The exhibition honors the kitchen table as a powerful symbol of Black life, a site of resistance and renewal, and a space where stories are passed down, movements are born, hair is braided with love, and memories are etched into history. Through Jan. 24 at the Black History Museum, Richmond.

Julien Creuzet. “Attila cataract your source at the feet of the green peaks will end up in the great sea blue abyss we drowned in the tidal tears of the moon” is an immersive video and sculptural installation that focuses on water as a site of both historical and contemporary traumas and emancipatory futures. The multisensorial project is deeply sonic and draws from hip-hop, jazz, and other musical forms and bodily gestures across the African diaspora. Through Feb. 22 at the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU, Richmond.

“House to Highway: Reclaiming a Community History.” The new exhibition explores the story of the first Black homeowner in the area now known as Jackson Ward and the removal of his house in advance of the construction of the Richmond-Petersburg Turnpike. The history anchors a larger national story of Black American experience from the founding of the nation through the Jim Crow era. Through Feb. 28, 2026, at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

“Generations: Stories of Asian Americans in Richmond” Exhibition. Richmond’s Asian American communities are one of the region’s most quickly growing populations. “Generations” shares stories of personal experience and cultural identity: how people found their way here and became integral parts of our local community. Through May 25, 2026, at The Valentine, Richmond.

“Following the Dragon” Special Exhibition. Explore the journey of Chinese Ming Porcelain to 17th-century Jamestown. See porcelain uncovered archaeologically during excavations of the 1607-1625 James Fort at Historic Jamestowne. Learn of unexpected cultural connections linking colonial Virginia with imperial China. Presented by the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation in partnership with the Jamestown Rediscovery Foundation. Through July 12, 2026, at Jamestown Settlement, Jamestown.

“West by Water: Richmond’s James River and Kanawha Canal.” The new exhibition features Richmond photographer John Henley and writer Harry Kollatz Jr. along the city’s historic James River & Kanawha Canal, which even after two centuries, remains to some, resident and visitor alike, elusive and mysterious. Through Sept. 7, 2026, at The Valentine, Richmond.

Virginia Museum of History & Culture Celebrates America’s 250th Anniversary with Spring 2025 Exhibition and Related Events. “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & the Forging of a Nation,” the first major show for the commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary, delves into Virginia’s role in the American Revolution, exploring the confluence of continental and global forces as well as the actions of both iconic and often-overlooked people who together established a new nation and changed the world. Through Jan. 4, 2026. At the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond. Related events include:

• We The People: Through Jan. 3, 2027
• “Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619–1865”: Through July 4, 2027 (see below)
• Sail250 with Tall Ships RVA: June 12 to 15, 2026
• IllumiNATION: June to July 2026

“Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865.” Examining the lives of free Black Virginians from the arrival of the first captive Africans in 1619 to the abolition of slavery in 1865. Through powerful objects and first-person accounts, visitors see how Virginia’s people of color achieved -freedom, established communities, and persevered within a legal system that recognized them as free but not equal. Through July 4, 2027, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“Sculpting History.” The exhibition from the Valentine shows how those who created the Lost Cause narrative used cultural and social centers of power to make it successful: education, media, politics, money, religion, and violence. The exhibition demonstrates how sculptor Edward Valentine, Richmond leaders, and others around the country reframed the war. It uncovers the Lost Cause, its legacy, and those who resisted. The Valentine, Richmond.