Make Plans for These Richmond Events

More events after November 6

“Kimberly Akimbo.” The winner of five 2023 Tony Awards, including Best Musical, presents the story of a teen girl navigating family dysfunction, a rare genetic condition, her first crush, and possible felony charges. Ever the optimist, she is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure. Premieres locally as part of Broadway in Richmond. Through Nov. 9 at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Documentary Film Screening: “Raised/Razed.” A screening of the award–winning documentary film and discussion with the film’s writers and directors. The film dives into Charlottesville’s oldest African American neighborhood, Vinegar Hill, as residents faced racially discriminatory policies and a city government that saw them as a hindrance to progress. The story examines the federal Urban Renewal program and the broader history of its effect in Durham, North Carolina, and other communities across America. Nov. 7, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Library of Virginia, Richmond.

Jazz Ambassadors: “This We’ll Defend.” The video-integrated patriotic concert from the United States Army Field Band celebrates military service through music and storytelling. Student jazz ensemble from VCU opens the concert. Nov. 7, 7 to 9 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Henrico.

Petersburg Veterans Day Celebration. “Honoring all who served” – with live music and more. Nov. 8, 4 p.m., at OldTowne Civic Center, Petersburg.

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.

An Evening with Chef Patrick O’Connell. A live recording and interview with Patrick O’Connell, the Chef and Sole Proprietor of The Inn at Little Washington, Virginia’s only 3-star Michelin restaurant, and winner of the James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award. Nov. 9, 5:30 to 8 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“HEARD.” Lights, Camera, Purpose: Two Richmond-Made Emmy Award-Winning Documentaries. Belltower Pictures presents a Richmond-made, Emmy Award-winning documentary, with previews of upcoming documentaries, film screening, and a Q&A with the filmmakers and producers. Nov. 10, 6 p.m. (VIP) and 6:45 (GA), at the Byrd Theatre Richmond.

1950s Monthly Movie Series. Starting Monday, Sept. 15, Ashland Theatre presents 12 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.

• Nov. 10, Let’s Dance
• Dec. 8, Harvey
• 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

“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.

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. Nov. 13, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

“Remember the Ladies” Gender-Reversed Reenactment. In this historic rendition of the Liberty or Death reenactment, women from Richmond’s theatre and film community portray nine delegates to the Second Virginia Convention. Nov. 14 to 23 at Historic St. John’s Church, Richmond.

More Influence than a Cicero – 18th Century Music Concert. As part of the VMHC’s Living History Weekend, experience the sounds of Revolutionary-era military music during a concert featuring musicians from Music of the Regiment performing authentic 18th-century military band music on period instruments. The ensemble also provides historical context on the history, meaning, and role of military music in the Revolutionary. Nov. 15, 1 to 2 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Living History Weekend. More than 50 living history interpreters bring to life the diverse stories of soldiers and civilians from the American Revolution. Explore the material culture of the era through immersive demonstrations, tours, and panel discussions that highlight the military experience and daily realities of the Revolutionary War. Nov. 15 to 16 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

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

• Susan Greenbaum, Nov. 15
• Dana Robinson, Jan. 17, 2026
• The Honey Dewdrops, Feb. 21
• Bill Evans – The Banjo in America with Babi Evans

A Magical Cirque Christmas 2025. Bursting with festive charm, laugh-out-loud comedy, and heartwarming magic, this high-flying spectacle showcases the extraordinary talents of the world’s most elite cirque performers. The show blends world-class circus artistry and favorite holiday music with breathtaking acrobatics and soaring aerial performances. Nov. 18, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, 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.

“My Heart Wants to Sing.” Joyful Voices, a chorus for singers with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their caregivers, presents its fall chorus. Nov. 20, 11 a.m., at Salisbury Presbyterian Church, Midlothian.

After the Fire: Richmond in Defeat. Dr. Nelson D. Lankford, author of “Richmond Burning: The Last Days of the Confederate Capital,” “Cry Havoc!: The Crooked Road to Civil War, 1861,” and “After the Fire: Richmond in Defeat,” looks at the aftermath of the vast conflagration that nearly destroyed the city. Nov. 20, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, 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.

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

• 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.

Pops: Let It Snow! Richmond Symphony and Chorus present holiday music. Nov. 29, 2 and 7 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center.

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.

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

• Yes And! Theatrical Company – Nov. 29
• My Funny Valentine: An Evening with Scott Wichmann + Friends – Feb. 14
• Laura Ann Singh + Rosette – April 25

Pops: Holiday Brass. Richmond Symphony presents holiday hits played on brass instruments. Nov. 30, 3 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

December: holiday happenings and more

“Les Misérables.” The popular musical returns to Richmond. It’s the moving story of transformation and integrity, of Jean Valjean’s powerful response to mercy, as he seeks to live with honor and love, pursued by the relentless Inspector Javert. The tale is set against the backdrop of 19th-century France and ideals of liberty and equality. Dec. 2 to 7 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.

The Bizarre Bazaar 50th Christmas Collection. More than 450 juried exhibitors from across the country showcase their latest gift lines, holiday décor, gourmet foods, handmade jewelry, clothing, accessories, crafts, lotions, and more. Dec. 4 to 7 at Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond.

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.

“The Nutcracker.” Richmond Ballet presents Stoner Winslett’s cherished production of the classic Tchaikovsky tradition. Dec. 6 to 23 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

“I’ll Be Home for Christmas.” The Virginians Chorus, the Richmond Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, presents traditional and memorable Christmas music to usher in the holiday season. Dec. 7, 3 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

The Milk Carton Kids. Part of the American folk tradition, the musicians blend ethereal harmonies and intricate musicianship with a uniquely powerful brand of contemporary songcraft. Dec. 9, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

An Evening with Chevy Chase. After a screening of “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” the long-time favorite American slapstick comedian engages in an on-stage conversation and Q&A, joined by his wife, Jayni. The two share behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this Christmas movie, plus answer other questions. Dec. 10, 7 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Hanover Christmas. Step into a candlelit woodland trail to see fellow travelers, shepherds, wise men, and angels and relive the birth of Jesus. Enjoy inspiring musical performances and dramatic reenactments, plus an indoors reception of festive music and refreshments. A suggested donation of $10 per person supports the Annual Fund for Camp Hanover. Dec. 12 and 13, 6 to 9 p.m., at Camp Hanover.

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.

A MoTown Christmas: MoTown and More. Relive this wonderful era of music with songs from legendary artists including Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Stevie Wonder, The Temptations, Four Tops and more. Dec. 14, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland. A blend of circus artistry and favorite holiday music, this spectacular production will transport you to a winter wonderland. 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 Nutcracker.” The Stavna Ballet presents the magical Christmas tale, filled with dazzling snowflakes, mischievous mice, and the enchanting Sugar Plum Fairy, accompanied by breathtaking dancing, stunning costumes, and the unforgettable music of Tchaikovsky. Dec. 19 to 21 at Perkinson Center, Chester.

The KOS Band Holiday Show. The 11-piece musical group plays all the best dance music, highlighting Top 40, Motown, and classic rock ’n’ roll hits from the ’60s through today. Dec. 20, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Susan Greenbaum Band – Holiday Show. The Richmond legend presents songs for the season. Dec. 21, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

New Year’s Eve Featuring The Jangling Reinharts. Celebrate New Year’s with the Richmond-based roots-rock band presenting covers from the ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s. Dec. 31, 8:30 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Hints of great events ahead in 2026

“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.

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.

“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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Ongoing Performances & Exhibitions

Around Richmond, and the occasional road trip

ArtoberVA Pay-What-You-Will Event Series. Celebrate Richmond arts with pay-what-you-will events, for chances to experience visual and performing arts, arts and crafts classes, all within your budget – whatever it might be. All October long, throughout the Richmond region.

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.

Director’s Choice: “Moving Art Two.” Presented by Richmond Ballet, a special collection of ballets artfully curated by artistic director Ma Cong for their deep personal meaning and artistic significance. Through Oct. 26 at Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

Halloween Movies. Mark the season with spooky movies, including “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (50th anniversary), “The Birds” (60th anniversary), “Night of the Living Dead,” “Psycho,” “Beetlejuice,” and more. Through Oct. 30 at Ashland Theatre, Ashland.

“Gabriel.” ATLAS Partnership brings to life the people and events surrounding Gabriel’s Rebellion, one of the most significant uprisings of enslaved people in American history, set in and around Richmond in 1800. An official program of the Virginia 250 Commission (VA250). Through Nov. 9 at the Historic Hanover Tavern, Hanover.

Jen Silverman’s “Witch.” In this Richmond Shakespeare performance, 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. Through Nov. 9 at Theatre Gym, Richmond.

Garden Glow. The grounds of Maymont transform after dark with creative lighting throughout the gardens – this year with three new artistic light installations: “Effervescence” blanket of lawn lights, “Peonies,” and “L’Envol” flock of origami-style birds in the treetops. Plus, a Glow Village with food, fire pits, and interactive light installations. Through Nov. 9 at Maymont, Richmond.

Riverfront Canal Cruises 25th Season. The new season offers of 40-minute historical narrated tours and private charters, 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.

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.

“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. Sept. 26 to 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.