Make Plans for These Richmond Events

Outdoor concert series

• 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.
• Allianz Amphitheater. Through Oct. 21 at Allianz Amphitheater at the Riverfront, Richmond.

Local sports teams

• Richmond Flying Squirrels
• Richmond Kickers
• Tri-City Chili Peppers

Select Richmond events after July 31

Virginia Brews. Celebrate Virginia Craft Beer Month with beverages from across the Commonwealth, live music, and food trucks. New this year for VMHC’s commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary, watch traditional barrel-making demonstrations by Marshall Scheetz of Jamestown Cooperage and more. Museum admission included. Aug. 2, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

804 Day Festival. Ten Richmond bands and performers celebrate the Richmond region, plus arts, crafts, food, drink, nonprofit showcase, and more. FREE. Aug. 2, 12:30 to 6:30 p.m., at 17th Street Market, Richmond.

• Nickelus F (Rap)
• Kadencia Orchestra (Latin)
• Høly River (Folk)
• REIN (Pop/Rock)
• Weldon Hill Quintet (Jazz)
• Bucko (Honky-Tonk/Goof-Rock)
• Los Hermanos Alacranes (Rock/Latin)
• Flora and The Fauna (Punk)
• Kaay Taurus (R&B)
• Vexine (Southern Rock Noir)

Music in the Park. Live music on the lawn by the old Stone House in one of Richmond’s legendary parks. Take blankets, lawn chairs, and a picnic and take in music and fresh air. FREE.

• Aug. 3: Carmen Ann & The Low Down Gamblers (Americana, twangy pop, and country rock) – 3 to 5 p.m.
• Sept. 7 – Hot Seats (old time and bluegrass) – 3 to 5 p.m.
• Oct. 5 – Ben White (indie singer-songwriter) – 3 to 5 p.m.

Virginia State Parks Adventure Series 2025. The multi-sport race series features 20 races, including triathlons, mountain biking races, adventure races, and more, at 11 parks across the state. This year features a broader range of race difficulties and distances forall levels of adventure and one new race option. Highlights near the Richmond region include:

Bike: 

• Aug. 3: Guts, Gravel, Glory at Pocahontas State Park

Running:  

• Sept. 20: Paw Paw 5- and 10-Miler at Powhatan State Park
• Oct. 4: High Bridge Half Marathon and 5k at High Bridge Trail State Park
• Oct. 5: Pocahontas Trail Festival at Pocahontas State Park

Proximity to Power: Rethinking Race and Place in Alexandria, Virginia. Author and professor of history and American studies, Krystyn R. Moon, presents a lecture based on her book of the same name. Her teaching and research include U.S. immigration history, popular culture, race and ethnic studies, foodways, gender and sexuality and consumerism. Aug. 7, noon, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Richmond Jazz and Music Festival. Announced artists are T.I., Jodeci, Muni Long, Masego, Ceelo Green, Aloe Blacc, Marsha Ambrosius, October London, Dru Hill, Raheen DeVaughn, Kirk Whalum & Mindi Abair, Norman Brown, Hot Like Mars, Charles Owens, Alexander Mack. Aug. 8 to 10 at The Hippodrome Theater (Friday) and Maymont (Saturday and Sunday), Richmond.

Ashland 1949 Film Series. Inspired by the rousing response to its 75th anniversary presentation of 1948 films, Ashland Theatre presents a series of films from 1949. All tickets $5, films beginning at 7 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

• Aug. 11, 2025: “Jour de fête,” starring Jacques Tati and Paul Frankeur

Summer Nights at the Perk. Live music, local food, drinks, and vibes at the Perkinson Center, Chester.

• Aug. 13 – The Eli Cook Band. Blues singer, songwriter and guitarist – raw and robust vocals.
• Aug. 23 – The Sweet Potatoes. Richmond natives serve up a soulful blend of jazz that captivates audiences with every note.

Defiant Spirits: Exploring the Legacy of Clementina Rind. This inspiring woman took over her husband’s printing office upon his death, and in 1766 became Virginia’s first female printer and newspaper publisher. She printed Thomas Jefferson’s “A Summary View of the Rights of British America” and published the widely read “Virginia Gazette.” Her printed work was distributed and vigorously debated in Virginia’s taverns and public houses. The presentation, in conjunction with Virago Spirits, explores tavern culture and its importance in the political climate of the day and the beverages enjoyed by our Founding Fathers. Aug. 14, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“Un/Bound” Book Launch and Panel Discussion. Preview the companion publication to the VMHC exhibition, “Un/Bound: Free Black Virginians, 1619-1865,” which explores the lives of early free Black Virginians, with hidden and inspirational stories from Virginia’s past. The book’s contributors present a panel discussion on the importance of free Black people to history. Aug. 20, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Laser Show: Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon. Rock out to the timeless music of Pink Floyd while being mesmerized by a unique light show – laser beams choreographed to music, projecting shapes, patterns and images on the huge Dome screen. SELLS OUT EARLY! Aug. 21, 6:30 and 8:15 p.m., at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

“The Father” Film for Alzheimer’s Awareness. The film centers on an 80-year-old London man who is experiencing memory loss and confusion from dementia. His daughter tries to care for him but faces challenges as he resists her help and grows increasingly suspicious. The film will be followed by remarks and a Q&A session with a representative from the Alzheimer’s Association. Aug. 21, 6:30 p.m., at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

Close to You: The Music of The Carpenters. The longest-running Carpenters tribute is on a 15-year anniversary tour, having played more than 400 shows in 41 states. Sept. 6, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Ann Hampton Callaway – The Streisand Songbook. Iconic songs performed by a platinum award-winning singer-songwriter. Sept. 7, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Virginia Repertory Theatre’s 2025-2026 Season.

• Agatha Christie’s masterful mystery, “Murder on the Orient Express,” adapted for stage by Ken Ludwig, Sept. 11 to Oct. 12, at the November Theater, Richmond.
• Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” adapted by Virginia Repertory Theatre’s Artistic Director, Rick Hammerly. Nov. 28 to Dec. 28 at the November Theater, Richmond.
• Ira Levin’s “Deathtrap,” the classic comedy thriller. Dec. 12 to Jan. 18, 2026, at Hanover Tavern, Hanover.
• 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.

James & Joel – Great American Songwriters. Musician Clay Mottley journeys through the stories behind the beloved songs of James Taylor and Billy Joel, with insights and interpretations. Sept. 14, 3 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Tim Shropshire. The stand-up comedia, writer, and influencer brings a clean and hilariously funny material to comedy clubs, churches, and colleges. Sept. 21, 6 p.m., at Funny Bone Richmond.

Sunrise Science: SR-71 Blackbird: Cold War Superstar. Retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Buz Carpenter and Todd Hervey of Fuel Creative provide an 85,000-foot view of the record-breaking aircraft suspended in our Speed exhibition: the history, mechanics and impact of the SR-71, a Cold War-era reconnaissance jet whose 25-year run defended the United States around the world. Carpenter will reflect on his military experience in the skies as a SR-71 instructor pilot and Hervey will share insights learned through his documentary “Blackbird: Legacy of Innovation.” FREE, registration recommended. Oct. 1, 8 a.m., at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

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.

2nd Street Festival. In its 37th year of celebrating rich local culture. Oct. 4 to 5, historic Jackson Ward, Richmond.

Willie Williams Band: Live at The Perk. Homegrown vocals drenched in Carolina twang and Memphis soul, blues and bluegrass-influenced guitar, plus showmanship and storytelling. Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Richmond Folk Festival. In its 21st year of celebrating the roots, richness, and variety of American culture. FREE. Oct. 10 to 12, along the riverfront, Richmond. Artists include:

• The Amanda Cook Band (bluegrass) – Fancy Gap, Virginia
• Diunna Greenleaf & Blue Mercy (blues) – Houston, Texas
• Meta & the Cornerstones (reggae) – New York, New York
• Raiatea Helm (Hawaiian falsetto singing) – Honolulu, Hawai’i
• Richard Hagopian Ensemble (Armenian) – Fresno, California
• Son Qba (Cuban son) – Miami, Florida
• Terry & the Zydeco Bad Boys (zydeco) – Duson, Louisiana
• Yamini Kalluri & the Kritya Music Ensemble (Kuchipudi dance) – Lansing, Michigan

“Roses in December” Book Talk. Author and historian Jody Lynn Allen examines the history of Black life in Hanover County, of newly freed people and their descendants, and the fight for civil rights. Oct. 15, noon, at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

Dr. Edda Fields-Black on “Combee.” The Lincoln Prize Lecture features the author of “Combee: Harriet Tubman, the Combahee River Raid, and Black Freedom During the Civil War.” Fields-Black is winner of the 2025 Gilder Lehrman Lincoln Prize and a Pulitzer Prize. Oct. 15, 6 to 8 p.m., at the American Civil War Museum at Tredegar, Richmond.

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

• An Evening with Tony DeSare: Hits from the Rat Pack + More – Oct. 18
• Yes And! Theatrical Company – Nov. 29
• My Funny Valentine: An Evening with Scott Wichmann + Friends – Feb. 14
• Laura Ann Singh + Rosette – April 25

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.

• Jen Silverman’s “Witch,” Oct. 23 to Nov. 9 at Theatre Gym. A charming devil arrives in the quiet village of Edmonton to bargain for the souls of its residents in exchange for their darkest wishes. Elizabeth should be his easiest target, having been labeled a “witch” and cast out by the town, but her soul is not so readily bought.
• “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.

BrassWind. A mix of retired  and active-duty military, some original charter-member educators, performing styles including Motown, R&B, Jazz, Soul, and Funk. Nov. 9, 3 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

“The Life and Music of George Michael.” 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.

Boz Scaggs. The singer, songwriter, and guitarist, an early bandmate of Steve Miller in The Ardells and the Steve Miller Band, began his solo career in 1969. Nov. 19, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Air Supply – 50th Anniversary Celebration. With nearly 50 years making music, the rock duo of the ’80s are still going. Nov. 23 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas. Classic Christmas hits from the holiday albums along with multimedia effects in an intimate setting, with 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments against a backdrop of dazzling multimedia effects. Nov. 26, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Christmas Together. Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, and Cece Winans present selections spanning the artists’ expansive Christmas repertoires with traditional classics and others from their holiday albums. Nov. 29, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Good Shot Judy: A Crooners Christmas. Classic hits from artists like Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Dean Martin, Ray Charles, Michael Bublé, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Bette Midler, and more, with the expanded Good Shot 20-piece orchestra. Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Masters of Soul: A Motown Christmas. Celebrating Motown artists, their music, and their style, with costumed and choreographed tributes to male and female groups, backed by a live band. The Temptations, Gladys Knight & the Pips, The Four Tops, Diana Ross & The Supremes, The Jackson Five, The Commodores, and more. Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

TubaChristmas 2025. Presenting MERRY TUBACHRISTMAS, a world-wide celebration featuring the biggest and brassiest of instruments. Inviting players of the tuba, euphonium, and baritone to participate. FREE. Dec. 13, 3 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland. A blend of world-class circus artistry and favorite holiday music, with breathtaking acrobatics, soaring aerial performances, and an all-new production. Dec. 15, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

An Evening with Heart. The rock band formed in 1973 in Vancouver, BC. In 1975, their first album, “Dreamboat Annie,” achieved global success. Heart blends the sounds of ’70s hard rock and acoustic rock, punk, and even at times symphonic. Dec. 17 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Celebrate Christmas Tour. Natalie Grant & Danny Gokey serve up reimagined holiday favorites and powerful worship-filled moments. Dec. 19, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, 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.

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.

Bindlestiff Family Cirkus. A hybrid of vaudeville, circus, wild west shows, burlesque, and sideshow, adding a contemporary twist to the grand traditions of American circus. March 6, 2026, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

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.

Ongoing Performances & Exhibitions

Around Richmond, and the occasional road trip

“Burial Tax.” Two estranged siblings and their spouses navigate an uncomfortable reunion at the old family lake house to spread the father’s ashes. Through July 27 at Firehouse Theatre, Richmond.

26th Annual Richmond Shakespeare Festival: “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Featuring William Shakespeare’s beloved comedy. Through July 27 at Agecroft Hall, Richmond.

“A Strange Loop.” A hilarious ensemble play. Usher, a young, gay, Black writer who hates his day job writes a musical about a young, gay, Black writer who is writing a musical about a young, gay, Black writer … making for a very strange loop. Through Aug. 2 at Robert B. Moss Theatre, Richmond.

“The Spitfire Grill.” Human kindness, forgiveness, and hope are on full display as a rural town struggles to save The Spitfire Grill from bankruptcy. The healing story of a community’s rebirth is told through a beautiful folk-inspired score. Through Aug. 2 at Swift Creek Mill Theatre, South Chesterfield.

“Waitress.” A waitress and expert pie maker is stuck in a loveless, abusive marriage. A nearby baking contest offers escape, and friends offer support. The rom-com features the music of singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles. Mature audiences. Through Aug. 3 at Virginia Repertory Theatre, Richmond.

“8 Track: The Sounds of the ’70s.” Propulsive rhythms and dazzling harmonies take a fast-paced musical romp through the impassioned decade of leisure suits, halter tops, platform shoes, and unforgettable music. Presented by Henrico Theatre Company. Through Aug. 3 at Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

“Towers of Tomorrow with LEGOⓇ Bricks.” Celebrating architecture and design, this hands-on exhibition showcases 20 of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers from North America, Asia and Australia, plus LEGO bricks for guests to build their own creations. Through Aug. 24 at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

“Ruined” and “Refined.” Two exhibits examine distinct approaches to motorcycle and scooter styling. Featuring “Daryl’s Bike” by Classified Moto and Vespa’s limited-edition 946 “Snake,” for a striking contrast in design philosophy. Exhibits run through Aug. 31 at The Branch Museum of Design, Richmond.

Edmund Archer: Perspectives on Black Dignity. Portraits of Black men and women that radiate their dignity in contrast to caricatures and stereotypes of earlier Richmond artists and popular culture. Through Sept. 1.

Ultimate Dinosaurs. Challenge your understanding of the prehistoric predators through research from scientists around the world on dinosaurs that evolved in isolation from North American. Dozens of fossil specimens and 17 life-size skeletons with interactive elements and technology. The run will include “Dinosaurs of Antarctica” in the Dome and themed events. Through Sept. 1 at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

Exhibitions and Opening: “Environment at Risk.” Paintings, drawings, collage, sculpture, photography and fiber art from over 35 contemporary regional artists. Art inspired by the natural world, highlighting the impacts from environmental threats to local communities and ecosystems. Three other exhibitions: “Vibrant Visions,” blending electric color and exciting subjects; “A Moment in Time,” preserving memories with photography; and the Virginia Glass Guild Membership Exhibit of works of glass art. “A Moment in Times,” through July 31; others through Sept. 14 at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

Homes & Habitats. Experience nature through the eyes of seven regional artists’ large-scale installations inspired by ecosystems. Many works feature interactive and educational elements. Through Sept. 28 at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.

2025 Season of Valentine Walking Tours. For 25 years, the Valentine’s guides have helped visitors and residents learn about important historic sites, discover off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and engage with the diverse stories that define Richmond – this year, dog-friendly History Hounds series returns. Various times and locations around Richmond.

Riverfront Canal Cruises 25th Season. The new season offers of 40-minute historical narrated tours and private charters, beginning on April 4 and operate until November. Shockoe Bottom on the Canal, Richmond.

“Faith & Resilience: The Legacy of Black Catholics in Virginia.” Using personal stories, historical artifacts, and community reflections to emphasize the vital contributions of Black Catholics, from growing the church in Virginia to their commitment to justice and the spiritual richness through worship, education, and evangelization. Through Nov. 29 at The Black History Museum, Richmond.

Brambly Park Artisan Market. The weekly market features local artisans selling handmade home décor, jewelry, apparel, ceramics, candles, and more. Grab food and drink from the Sundays, 3 to 7 p.m., through Dec. 14, at Brambly Park, Richmond.

“‘I made this…’: The Work of Black American Artists and Artisans.” The first exhibition looking solely at the work of diverse Black artists and artisans from three centuries opens at the Art Museums of Colonial Williamsburg. Through Dec. 31, 2025, at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, Williamsburg.

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.

“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. July 14 to 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.

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.