Make Plans for These Richmond Events

More Richmond events after August 1

Friday at the Museum: Dabbs House Museum. Learn about Henrico County’s people, places, and events through tours and hands-on activities at historic museums and homes. The Dabbs House served as General Robert E. Lee’s field headquarters during the summer of 1862. The museum tells the history of the Dabbs House from its use as a residence for the Dabbs family to its tenure as Henrico’s police headquarters from 1941 to 2005. Aug. 2, noon to 4 p.m., at Dabbs House Museum, Henrico.

Found Emotions: Our Revolution. The final exhibition and culmination of the Atlas Artist Residency, a summerlong art intensive for an esteemed group of creative and dedicated high school artists, led by teaching artists-in-residence, Xolani Sivunda from Cape Town, South Africa, and Nastassja Swift, based in Petersburg. Aug. 2, 5 to 8 p.m., at ART 180’s Atlas Gallery, Richmond.

Doswell VA Pro Rodeo. Bull riding, bronc riding, and barrel racing. Aug. 2 and 3 at The Meadow Event Park, Doswell.

Richmond Music Week

Richmond Music Week. Celebrate RVA’s thriving music scene with performances from across different genres and artists, from big name acts to local and regional musicians. The week will also highlight local record stores, record labels, and recording studios along with pop-up events. Aug. 2 to 11 at live music venues around Richmond.

804 Day. Three stages feature 15+ diverse performances for Richmond’s Biggest Block Party. Headliner is Richmond hip-hop artist Nickelus F. More than 15 other bands cover genres such as pop, rock, R&B, jazz, folk, and country. Plus 40 local vendors, artists, nonprofits, and a kids’ zone, as well as a ticketed VIP area. FREE. Aug. 2, 4 to 9 p.m., in Shockoe Bottom, Richmond.

• • Ant The Symbol (Pop) – @antthesymbol
  • Dead Billionaires (Punk) – @deadbillionaires
  • Erin and the Wildfire (Pop) – @erinandthewildfire
  • Flight Club (Rock) – @flightclubrva
  • Høly River (Folk) – @holyrivermusic
  • Kadencia (Latin) – @kadenciapr
  • Knifing Around (Punk Dance) – @knifingaroundband
  • Los Hermanos Alacranes (Rock/Latin) – @lhalacranes
  • Nickelus F (Rap) @nickelusf
  • Niiasii (R&B) – @niiasii
  • Palmyra (Bluegrass) – @palmyratheband
  • Rein (Rock) – @rein.radio
  • Sugar Hollows (Country) – @thesugarhollows
  • Vexine (Rock) – @vexinerva
  • Weekend Plans (R&B) – @weekendplansmusic
  • Weldon Hill (Jazz) – @w.weldonhill

RVA Music Lovers Bus Tour. In honor of 804 Day, the Valentine takes a journey through the city’s vibrant music scene, past and present: from iconic music stores to legendary concert venues and the artists that put Richmond on the map, with hidden histories and infamous Richmond music stories Aug. 4, 1 to 3:30 p.m., beginning at the Valentine, Richmond.

PLUS:

• Music Mixer & Fundraiser. Featuring local vendors who specialize in services that help grow a musician’s career along with performances from some of the city’s best local talent including Tiara & Andrew, Tyler Meacham, and DJing by Ant The Symbol. Ticket and raffle proceeds benefit the Newlin Music Prize. Aug. 4 at KavaClub, Richmond.
• Shockoe Sessions Live. The live music webcast series presented by Shockoe Records hosts Deau Eyes for a special Richmond Music Week episode. Aug. 6 at In Your Ear Studios, Richmond.
• Writers Round Series. Performances by four local songwriters who will each share a song along with some kind of story or context. This event allows artists to learn more about the projects happening in the local community and to network. Aug. 8 at Spacebomb Studio, Richmond.

“Indigenous Perspectives” Closing Celebration. The Library presents performances and displays from tribal representatives. A drumming circle, dancing and demonstrations of traditional crafts will celebrate Virginia’s 11 federally and state-recognized tribes. Food truck selling Indigenous menu items, including homemade fry bread. FREE. Aug. 2, 5 to 7 p.m., at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

Victoria Victoria. In 2023, Victoria Victoria was named a “rising act” by Rolling Stone after performing on NPR’s Mountain Stage. With an air-tight rhythm section, the soul pop group is brimming with harmonies. Live performances invite audiences into a communal experience. Aug. 2, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Summer Wine, Food and R&B Festival. Smooth R&B vibes, soulful blues beats, delicious wines, and mouthwatering local bites, including wine tastings and education. Aug. 3, noon to 6 p.m., at Chesterfield County Fairgrounds.

Community Art Day. All materials supplied for all ages to make 12 X 12 artworks to support the upcoming fundraiser, Full Moon Cabaret. Aug. 3, 1 to 3 p.m., at Artspace, Richmond.

Virginia Brews. Formerly known as BrewHaHa, the celebration of Virginia Craft Beer Month features beverages from across the Commonwealth, paired with live music, food trucks, and free museum admission. Aug. 3, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Julia Highlight Tours. Join members of the VMHC Education team as they guide participants through the “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life” exhibition. Saturdays in August, 11:30 a.m. to noon each day, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Pocahontas Premieres. Music under the stars at Pocahontas State Park, Chesterfield.

• Aug. 3, 7 to 10 p.m.: The Nashville Nights with Polly Windham
• Aug. 17, 6 to 10 p.m.: Mini Bluegrass Festival, with Josh Grigsby and County Line;
• Virginia Rain Bluegrass Band; River City Band; and Tara Mills Band.
• Sept. 21, 7 to 8 p.m.: The Richmond Symphony.
• Sept. 28, 6:30 to 10 p.m.: Zoso The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience with Hold the Line RVA

The Critical Race Theatre Project: 1st Annual Black Theatre Festival. An evening of Black creative expression and excellence, providing a platform for Black artists to get their work seen. Aug. 3 and 4, 7 p.m. both days, at Robert B. Moss Theatre, Richmond.

Brunch Market at River City Roll. Local Richmond artists and makers selling handmade home décor, art, jewelry, apparel, and more. Aug. 4, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at River City Roll, Richmond.

ATE-OH! 04 DAY. Richmond Black Restaurant Experience presents food, art, entertainment, and beer. Aug. 4, noon, at Hardywood West Creek, Richmond.

RVA Music Lovers Bus Tour. In honor of 804 Day and in partnership with Shockoe Records and Richmond Music Week, the Valentine takes a journey through the city’s vibrant music scene, past and present: from iconic music stores to legendary concert venues and the artists that put Richmond on the map, with hidden histories and infamous Richmond music stories Aug. 4, 1 to 3:30 p.m., beginning at the Valentine, Richmond.

Forest Hill Music in the Park. The annual summer concert series features Elizabeth Wise and Her Guys blues music. Take chairs, blankets, and picnics and enjoy one of Richmond’s iconic parks. Aug. 4, 6 to 8 p.m., beside the Stone House at Forest Hill Park, Richmond.

Virginia State Parks Adventure Series Returns. The multi-sport race series consists of 24 races, including triathlons, mountain biking races, adventure races, and more, at 13 different parks across the state. Many events return this year, including the Tour de Pocahontas, Smith Mountain Lake Triathlon, and New River Trail Challenge, plus four new challenges: the DMV Adventure Race, Arbor Day 15k Run, Shenandoah River Aquablaze, and Fall Foliage Adventure Race. Events near Richmond include:

• Aug. 4: Guts, Gravel, Glory at Pocahontas State Park
• Sept. 21: Powhatan 10 Miler at Powhatan State Park
• Oct. 5: High Bridge Half Marathon and 5k at High Bridge Trail State Park
• Oct. 6: Pocahontas Trail Festival at Pocahontas State Park
• Oct. 19: Fall Foliage Adventure Race at Mason Neck State Park

Kenny Wayne Shepherd. The Louisiana-born songsmith has long been known for his guitar proficiency, highlighting classic blues with his own modern twist. Aug. 5, doors at 6:30 p.m., at the Beacon Theatre, Hopewell.

Front Lawn Fun. Classic toys like jacks, Jacob’s ladders, and yo-yos in hands-on play with colonial-era replicas, plus slinky races, giant checkers, and more. All ages welcome, but recommended for elementary to middle school. Aug. 6 and 13, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture.

Hymn Sing-Along. Learn about Joyful Voices, a chorus for people in the early to mid-stages of memory loss and their caregivers. No musical experience necessary. Have snacks and socialize, then sing some favorite songs. Aug. 8, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at Salisbury Presbyterian Church, Midlothian.

The Oasis: A High Noon Summer Concert. Relax in the courtyard of The Valentine with live music and free admission to the museum. This week featuring Tiara & Andrew. FREE. Aug. 8, noon to 1 p.m., at The Valentine, Richmond.

JamPacked Craft Beer & Music Festival. Environmentally conscious craft brewers, inspiring bands, and concertgoers who want a better future come together in this waste-free event using only recyclable materials. Aug. 10, Brown’s Island, Richmond.

Hot Club of Cowtown. The Austin-based string trio blends traditional Western swing of the 1940s American southwest with European hot jazz of the same era. Aug. 11, 7 to 9 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Ashland Theatre’s 1948 Film Series. The small-town theater celebrates its 75th anniversary with 1948 films on one Monday each month throughout the year. Look for classic films with noteworthy directors and actors like Alfred Hitchcock, Orson Welles, Judy Garland, Katharine Hepburn, Laurence Olivier, and more.

• Aug. 12, 2024 at 7 p.m.: “The Pirate,” starring Judy Garland and Gene Kelly

Julia Child’s Birthday and Presidential Dinners. Author Alex Prud’homme discusses his newest book, “Dinner with the President: Food, Politics, and a History of Breaking Bread at the White House.” Inspired by a series of events, including Julia Child’s televised visits to state dinners in 1967 and 1976, this conversation examines the politics of food of 26 presidents. Reception following for Child’s 112th birthday. Aug. 15, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Suzy Bogguss. The popular country musician has also made albums of modern swing and jazz. Aug. 15, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

RTP’s 2024-2025 Spotlight Cabaret Series. Richmond Triangle Players presents four cabaret performances for the season. At Robert B. Moss Theatre, Richmond.

• Seth Rudetsky: Seth’s Big Fat Broadway Show! Aug. 15 to 16.
• August Hundley: Li’l Guy in a Big Ol’ World. Oct. 18 to 19.
• Georgia Rogers Farmer: Perfect Pair. March 27 to 29, 2025.
• Nationally Renowned Act To be Announced. May 30 to 31, 2025.

Virginia Roots Music Series. Hardywood Park Craft Brewery present a new year-long music series. Four shows feature a Virginia band covering an iconic musical artist, paired with a pre-release of a Hardywood Virginia Roots beer, highlighting a Virginia ingredient. Concerts three, and four in the series are scheduled for Aug. 16 and Dec. 19 at Hardywood Park Craft Brewery on Ownby, Richmond.

“Cold War Virginia.” Cold War historians Gary Powers Jr. and Chris Sturdevant discuss their new book about how Virginia was the setting for critical decisions and activities during this uncertain time in world history. FREE. Aug. 21, noon to 1 p.m., at the Virginia War Memorial, Richmond.

Groovin’ in the Garden: Fleetwood Mac cover band, Rumours ATL. Aug. 22, 7:30 p.m., in the Cochrane Rose Garden at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond.

“Avatar: The Last Airbender” in Concert. Experience the animated series’ soundtrack performed by a live orchestra as the film shows on a cinema screen. Aug. 24, 8 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

All Abilities Sports Day. Friendship Circle of Virginia, Jacob’s Chance, and Sportable present an inclusive sporting event designed for individuals of all abilities (suggested age range 5-25). The event pairs attendees one to one with teen friends (volunteers) in the community for friendship and fun and gives them the opportunity to try different adaptive sports. Plus snacks, crafts, and a sensory area. Aug. 25, 2 to 4 p.m., at Deep Run High School, Glen Allen.

Virginia Repertory Theatre 2024 – 2025 Season

November Theatre

• “Misery,” Aug. 31 to Sept. 29
• “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” Nov. 30 to Jan. 5, 2025
• “Fat Ham,” March 1 to 23, 2025
• “Waitress,” June 21 to Aug. 3, 2025

Barksdale at Hanover Tavern

• “Ken Ludwig’s Moriarty,” Dec 13 to Jan. 19, 2025
• “Dial M for Murder,” March 29 to April 27, 2025

History Makers Dinner: A Tribute to Nick’s Seafood Pavilion. Enjoy a vintage dinner party, complete with artifacts and images, to celebrate the iconic Yorktown landmark and the enduring legacy of its owners. The late Nick and Mary Mathews donated land to the Yorktown Victory Center. Nick’s Seafood Pavilion opened in 1944 and became known for its seafood and other culinary gems (Baked Alaska, anyone?), drawing visitors to the area, including celebrities such as John Wayne, Elizabeth Taylor, Tennessee Ernie Ford, and Fred McMurray. Sept. 7, 6 to 9 p.m., at the American Revolution Museum, Yorktown.

RTP’s 2024-2025 Season. Four plays, including a new production of one of RTP’s biggest hits, will take the stage at Richmond Triangle Players, as the company celebrates its 32nd year as one of the Commonwealth’s most acclaimed cultural arts institutions, and the longest-operating LGBTQ+ theatre in the mid-Atlantic region. At Robert B. Moss Theatre, Richmond.

• “5 Lesbians Eating a Quiche” by Evan Linder and Andrew Hobgood. Smart, sharp, and hysterically funny. Sept. 11 to Oct. 5.
• A Campy Christmas Featuring “With Bells On” and “Who’s Holiday!” by Darrin Hagan and Matthew Lombardo. A very campy Christmas celebration to make your spirits bright. Nov. 13 to Dec. 22.
• “Which Way to the Stage” by Ana Nogueira. What happens when dreams fall just out of reach, in a playful yet profound comedy of friendship and ambition. April 23 to May 17, 2025.
• “A Strange Loop,” book, music, and lyrics by Michael R. Jackson. Winner of every best musical award in New York for the story of Usher, a young, gay, Black writer in a loop of a hilarious ensemble play. June 25 to Aug. 2, 2025.

Library of Virginia 2024 Carole Weinstein Author Series. Respected authors address topics focusing on history, literature, and the experiences of Virginians. Each event runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Library of Virginia Lecture Hall, 800 E. Broad St., Richmond.

• “Boardinghouse Women: How Southern Keepers, Cooks, Nurses, Widows, and Runaways Shaped Modern America” with Elizabeth S. D. Engelhardt. A look at the significant impact of Southern boardinghouse women in shaping modern America. Sept. 12.
• “Dirt Don’t Burn: A Black Community’s Struggle for Educational Equality Under Segregation” with Larry Roeder & Barry Harrelson. The history of a Black community’s struggle for educational equality under segregation in Loudoun County. Nov. 14.

Face Value – A Tribute to Phil Collins. Through five decades and 150 million albums sold, Collins has been one of the world’s best-selling artists. The tribute brings his hits to the forefront. Sept. 19, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Run Richmond 16.19 Weekend. Four events – “Celebrating Unity in Diversity.”

• Time to Heal. A guided meditation practice & libation ceremony reflects on the intergenerational trauma of the African American community and imagines a path towards collective healing. FREE, registration required. Sept. 20, 5 to 8 p.m., at Main Street Station, Richmond.
• Run Richmond 16.19. The cultural run-or-walk event offers two courses (7.19k and 16.19k) highlighting 400 years of Black history. Plus finisher swag and post-race festival. Sept. 21, 7 to 11:15 a.m., starting and ending at Kanawha Plaza, Richmond.
• Africa Reconnect Post-Race Festival. Drum circle, electric slide dancing, live concert, Black history pop-up exhibit, vendor village, and food and drinks. FREE. Sept. 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Kanawha Plaza, Richmond.
• AFRIKANA Independent Film Festival. Details TBA.

Jim Gaffigan’s Barely Alive Tour. Deliciously clean and wickedly funny, the Grammy-nominated comedian, actor, writer, producer, and author shares relatable humor of observations on life. Sept. 20, 7 p.m., and Sept. 21, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

“Triads of Soul” Tribute to Otis Redding, Sam Cooke & David Ruffin. Featuring Rodney Stith, African American soul singer, songwriter and producer from Petersburg, with powerful urban retro soul brings back the soulful sound of the retro classic rhythm and blues. With seasoned performer Ned Harris, who was influenced by the Motown music of his parents and is sticking to the foundation of what the forefathers of R&B and soul music built. Sept. 21, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

RIFF 2024. The Richmond International Film Festival has announced its next annual celebration of film, with more than 200 filmmaking and musical guests from around the world, more than 150 film premieres, more than 30 musical performances, and more. Sept. 24 to 29, 2024, at various events around Richmond.

UR’s Modlin Center for the Arts Awarded NEA Grant for Upcoming Season. The University of Richmond was awarded $27,500 from the National Endowment for the Arts for performances in the 2024-25 season, including two world premieres. The grant funding will support three performances commissioned by the Modlin Center:

• “What Belongs to You.” The world premiere of a chamber opera based on the debut novel of the same name by Garth Greenwell. Composed by David T. Little and directed by Mark Morris, the opera will be performed by tenor Karim Sulayman and the contemporary instrumental ensemble Alarm Will Sound. Sept. 26 and 28 at Modlin Center for the Arts, University of Richmond.
• “Murmurs in Time.” In another world premiere, Chicago-based percussion quartet Third Coast Percussion performs a work by tabla player Zakir Hussain, who will also perform. Feb. 21, 2025, at Modlin Center for the Arts, University of Richmond.
• “Aguas da Amazonia.” Third Coast Percussion and dancers of the Twyla Tharp Dance company will perform an original adaptation of Philip Glass’s work for percussion quartet and flute. April 5, 2025, at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

World Premiere of Opera Based on Garth Greenwell Novel. The chamber opera “What Belongs to You” was commissioned by the Modlin Center and the instrumental ensemble Alarm Will Sound. The opera tells the story of an unnamed narrator’s obsession with a hustler and the start of a “long, unstable, and ultimately destructive affair,” says composer David T. Little. “The experience Greenwell describes is universal: the search for self and the desire to belong amidst loneliness and enduring heartbreak.” Q&A on Sept. 27, in the Alice Jepson Theatre, performances Sept. 26 and 28, at the Modlin Center for the Arts, University of Richmond.

Richmond Folk Festival 2024. The popular RVA cultural festival has announced first group of featured artists, who hail from as far away as Indonesia and Colombia, from Virginia and D.C., with returning acts and new. Sept. 27 to 29, 2024 on Brown’s Island and the surrounding riverfront, Richmond.

• Canzoniere Grecanico Salentino (Southern Italian pizzica tarantata), Salento, Italy
• John Doyle & the Irish American Music Masters (Irish), Chicago; Brooklyn; Bristol, Vermont; Asheville, North Carolina; and County Louth, Ireland
• Junior Sisk Band (bluegrass), Ferrum, Virginia
• Lonnie Holley (Afro-futuristic jazz, funk, and soul), Atlanta, Georgia
• Mis Blandine (Congolese soukous), Toronto, Ontario
• Peni Candra Rini (Javanese sindhen), Tulungagung, East Java, Indonesia
• Rancho Aparte (Colombian chirimía music), Quibdó, Colombia
• Trouble Funk (go-go), Washington, D.C.

Virginia Repertory November Theatre

• “Martha Mitchell Calling,” featuring Debra Wagoner and Joe Pabst, Sept. 29 to Oct. 29, at Hanover Tavern
• “Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery,” Dec. 15, 2023 to Jan. 21, 2024, at Hanover Tavern
• “On Air,” March 15 to April 14, 2024, at Hanover Tavern

The Second City 65th Anniversary Show. The legendary Chicago-based comedy legend presents favorite songs, sketches, and characters written for them by some of their illustrious alumni, including Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Amber Ruffin, Stephen Colbert, Bill Murray, Joan Rivers, Eugene Levy, and more, with material handpicked from our iconic comedy archive and brought to life by an all-star ensemble. Two shows: Oct. 4, 6:30 and 9:45 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

22nd Annual James River Writers Conference. Master Classes online on Friday, then programs focusing on the craft and business of writing on Saturday and Sunday. Benefits from panel discussions, professional headshots, live first page and query letter critique sessions with literary agents, plenary sessions, agent one-on-one meetings, and networking and socializing. Oct. 4 to 6, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond.

2nd Street Festival. Celebrating the rich culture and vibrant present of the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood, when it was the heart and soul of Richmond’s African American community and known as “the Harlem of the South.” The two-day festival features three stages of live musical entertainment, including Grammy Award-winning Arrested Development on Saturday and Desiree Roots on Sunday, along with other performing artists, a Kidz Zone, food vendors, a marketplace and Artists Row, and the Richmond Metropolitan Antique Car Club. Oct. 5 to 6, in Jackson Ward, Richmond.

“Final Fantasy VII Rebirth” Orchestra World Tour. A new concert based entirely on the game, with symphonic arrangements of the game’s music performed by the Richmond Symphony and Richmond Symphony Chorus. Accompanied by high-definition video scenes created exclusively for the production. Oct. 12, 8 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Richmond Shakespeare’s 26th Season. Classic and contemporary plays and musicals. At varying locations in Richmond.

• “Lord of the Flies,” Oct. 17 to Nov. 10
• “The Father,” Jan. 30 to Feb. 16, 2025
• “Jesus Christ Superstar,” March 6 to 23, 2025
• “Cyrano De Bergerac,” Summer, dates TBA
• “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Summer, dates TBA

“The Book of Mormon.” The popular Broadway production is coming to Richmond for a limited engagement on Oct. 18 to 19 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Diana Ross: Beautiful Love Performances. The iconic, legendary singer was known as the leader of The Supremes and for her solo work. Oct. 22, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Fine Arts & Flowers. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) announced 2024 dates for the biennial event. The museum-wide exhibition showcases floral designs inspired by works of art in VMFA’s permanent collection, with floral designs by the Garden Club of Virginia, The Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs and Ikebana of Richmond. Gala kickoff and preview, with other special events like talks from guest speakers and VMFA curators, luncheons, floral design workshops, exhibition tours, a fashion show, and family activities. Oct. 23 to 27, 2024, at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

Legends on Grace. This season highlights a different genre with each performance including a holiday show. All at Bob & Sally Mooney Hall at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

• Americana Folk Rock: Frank Coleman, Chris Fuller, and Brad Tucker. Oct. 26, 8 p.m.
• A Jazzy Holiday! Desirée Roots, Georgia Rogers Farmer, and Scott Wichmann. Dec. 7, 8 p.m., and Dec. 8, 2 p.m.
• Heart & Soul: Ms. Jaylin Brown. Feb. 15, 2025, 8 p.m.
• ’70s Pop Night! The Super Sugar Beats. April 26, 2025, 8 p.m.

Broadway in Richmond Presents Its 2024 to 2025 Season. The new season includes five Richmond-area premieres with three of them in their first year of touring along with the return of a popular rom-com, pop musical.

• “Shucked” kicks off the season, making one of the first stops fresh off its Broadway run, Oct. 29 to Nov. 3, 2024.
• Fan favorite and global smash hit “Mamma Mia!” hits the stage Dec. 10 to 14, 2024.
• The Virginia premiere of “MJ: The Musical” arrives to play Jan. 28 to Feb. 2, 2025.
• The 10-time Tony Award-winning hit “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” entertains March 4 to 16, 2025.
• “A Beautiful Noise,” in its first year of touring, entertains in RVA from April 15 to 20, 2025.
• Song and dance spectacular “Some Like It Hot” comes to Richmond, June 3 to 8, 2025.
• “Chicago The Musical” returns, May 9 to 11, 2025 (can be added to any six-show season ticket package).

The Kingston Trio. Fans of legendary folk icons can re-discover their timeless music as the iconic folk group performs their best-loved songs as part of the ‘Keep The Music Playing’ national tour, celebrating 60+ years. All three current members have links to the original group. Nov. 11, 2 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Ongoing Events

Around Richmond, and a few worth a road trip

Virginia is for Music Lovers: A History of Virginia’s Black Excellence in Music. Interactive pop-up exhibition showcases the heritage of Black music in Virginia: artists, musicians, DJs, and historians and their contributions to the soulful rhythms and narratives of the African American experience. QR codes unlock curated playlists of Black music to complement the visual art and thematic narratives. Visitors can also listen through headphones for a multisensory experience. Through July 27 (Wednesdays through Saturdays) at the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, Richmond.

Back to the Rock: From Enslavement to Empowerment. The new exhibition dives into the story of St. Frances de Sales and St. Emma’s Military Academy, the nation’s only Black military academy for over 70 years. Founded by one of three American born saints, Katherine Drexel and her sister Louise Drexel Morell, the schools were built on the former Belmead plantation, built by the enslaved and owned by a Confederate general. Through July 27 at the Black Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Tri-City Chili Peppers. The region’s newest minor league baseball team kicks off their season with baseball and high-energy fan fun as part of the Coastal Plain League. Look for lots of activity on and off field and special nights. Through July 27, including a Cosmic blacklight game on July 20, at Shepherd Stadium, Colonial Heights.

“Eyes Wide Open.” The art quilts of Michelle Wilkie, native New Zealander and now U.S. resident. The upper gallery will feature “The Photography of Gary D. Jones, A collection of images and memories of Petersburg, the town where I grew up.” Through Aug. 3 at Petersburg Area Art League (PAAL) gallery, Petersburg.

Samurai Armor. Featuring one of the world’s largest collections of Japanese samurai armor, providing a rare personal encounter with samurai artistry and tradition spanning more than 700 years of Japanese history. From the collection of Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller. Through Aug. 4 at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

“9 to 5, The Musical.” The classic film about revenge and empowerment comes to life on stage with an original score by the queen of country music, Dolly Parton. Through Aug. 4 at the November Theatre, Richmond.

“Indigenous Perspectives.” A multimedia exhibition highlights the commonwealth’s Indigenous history and how the tribes remain a vital part of Virginia’s culture today. Includes video interviews, archival records, and objects contributed by tribes. Through Aug. 17 at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

“Radius 250.” Artspace in Richmond Presents its 10^th biennial regional juried exhibition, featuring selected work by artists living or working within a 250-mile radius of Richmond. Through Aug. 17 at Artspace Gallery, Richmond.

Two Ceramics Exhibitions. Through Aug. 17 (Wednesdays through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, Richmond.

• NCECA Multicultural Fellowship ceramics exhibition includes pieces from tabletop vases to life-sized creations representing the theme “Coalescence.” Artists come from various backgrounds, showing the value of diversity and inclusivity in art.
• “Like the Dust Settles in Layers, So Does the Story” ceramics exhibition invites viewers to challenge stereotypes related to communities, environments, race, economics, and societal roles, focusing on the themes of self-reflection, strength, and the beauty of resilience during challenging times.

Discover Steampunk. New touring exhibition looks at the movement inspired by Victorian ideals of industry and steam power. It blends science, art, and history, showing how thinkers and writers of the late 1800s envisioned the future. More than 20 interactive exhibits highlight electricity and Mary Shelley, deep ocean exploration with Jules Verne, time travel with H.G. Wells, and more. Through Aug. 18 at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

“Julia Child: A Recipe for Life.” The exhibition highlighting the popular chef will make its only East Coast stop on a national tour at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Including video, audio, photographs, memorabilia, recreated scenes from the chef’s life, and a special section exclusive to VMHC that highlights Julia Child’s impact on Virginians. Through Sept. 2 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“BODY WORLDS: The Anatomy of Happiness.” What makes people happy? How does that impact the mind and body? A new exhibition answers those questions, using real, plastinated human specimens. Complementary programs will be available throughout the run of the exhibition. Through Labor Day at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

Cap Trail Summer Challenge. The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation is running a three-month challenge to help people stay active this summer by covering all 51.7 miles of the Virginia Capital Trail, in bits and pieces or all at once. Run, walk, bike, or skate. Through Sept. 9 along the Virginia Capital Trail, from Richmond to Jamestown.

Racing at Colonial Downs. Thursdays through Saturdays see action at the track, with Thirsty Thursdays, Party at the Downs each Friday, and Saturday special events. FREE for parking and general admission. Through Sept. 7 at Colonial Downs, New Kent.

Dogwood Dell 67th Festival of the Arts. The festival continues through Sept. 21 with musicians, festivals, music, comedy, and theatrical performances, at Byrd Park’s Dogwood Dell, Richmond.

2024 Riverfront Canal Cruises Launch. The 24th season of 40-minute, historically narrated boat tours of the James River and Kanawha Canal continues till fall. Departing from the Canal’s Turning Basin, Richmond.

Secrets & Symbols: Hidden Messages in Decorative Objects. A new display explores symbolic imagery, hidden messages, and other private references contained in a small selection of items from the museum’s collection. Through Oct. 20 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Richmond City Tours with the Valentine. Discover Richmond with experienced Valentine guides. From historic cemeteries to the murals of Jackson Ward and the streets of Church Hill, walking and bus tours dive deep into Richmond’s historic sites and charming neighborhoods, uncovering the hidden histories in the art, architecture, and landscape. April through November at various starting points, Richmond.

Weekly Artisan Market at Brambly Park. Shop Small with local artisans selling handmade home décor, art, jewelry, apparel, ceramics, candles, woodworking, and more. In Richmond’s urban winery, BYO dogs and kids and support the community. Sundays till Dec. 8, 3 to 7 p.m., at Brambly Park, Richmond.

“A Better Life for Their Children: Julius Rosenwald, Booker T. Washington, and the 4,978 Schools That Changed America.” Exhibition honoring the Rosenwald program, a unique school program established to provide educational opportunities for African Americans during the Jim Crow era. One of the most transformative educational initiatives in American history was forged by Booker T. Washington, a Black educator, and Julius Rosenwald, a Jewish businessman and philanthropist. The exhibition features photographs and stories of the schools alongside a Virginia-based collection of related artifacts, images, and more. Through April 20, 2025 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Portraits: The “Style Weekly” Photograph Archive. Richmond’s alternative source of culture, arts, opinion, and local issues started in 1982, through words and photographs. This exhibition includes portraits selected from the archive. Through May 16, 2025, at The Valentine, 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.

“Sculpting History.” The new 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.

“The Impending Crisis.” A dynamic exhibit of events, people, and circumstances that led America to a pivotal point in its history, exploring differing viewpoints from across the nation in pre-civil war America. Opening April 27 at the American Civil War Museum, Tredegar, Richmond.