Festivals and Events in Richmond: What’s Happening Throughout the Year


festivals and events in Richmond

Richmond, Virginia, is a vibrant city that offers a plethora of festivals and events throughout the year. From cultural celebrations to music and arts festivals, there is always something happening in this lively city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Richmond’s diverse array of events ensures that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Key Takeaways

  • Richmond hosts a variety of festivals and events year-round, catering to diverse interests and age groups.
  • Spring in Richmond features events like Shamrock the Block, the French Film Festival, and the Irish Festival.
  • Summer extravaganzas include Dominion Riverrock, Broad Appetit, and the Richmond Jazz Festival.
  • Fall festivities are highlighted by the Richmond Folk Festival, the 2nd Street Festival, and Fire, Flour & Fork.
  • Winter wonders in Richmond include the Holiday Lights at the Garden, New Year’s Eve Bash, and the Christmas Parade.

Spring Celebrations in Richmond

spring festival in Richmond with cherry blossoms and local events

Shamrock the Block in Scott’s Addition

Every mid-March, Scott’s Addition transforms into a lively celebration of all things Irish. Shamrock the Block features live music, food trucks, and a family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to kick off spring with a bit of Irish cheer.

French Film Festival in Carytown

Late March brings the French Film Festival to Carytown, showcasing a variety of French films. This event is a must for cinema lovers and offers a unique cultural experience right in the heart of Richmond.

The Irish Festival in Church Hill

Also in late March, Church Hill hosts the Irish Festival. This event celebrates Irish culture with traditional music, dance, and plenty of food. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the rich heritage and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.

Don’t miss out on these spring celebrations! They are a fantastic way to explore the vibrant beer culture, historic brewery district, and unique tasting experiences in Richmond, Virginia.

Summer Extravaganzas

summer festival in Richmond

Dominion Riverrock on Brown’s Island

Explore Richmond’s great outdoors at the nation’s premier sports and action-packed festival on the East Coast. From outdoor live music to all you can eat crab festivals, there is something for everyone to do in downtown Richmond! Check out our list of summer events and make sure to mark your calendar for Dominion Riverrock.

Broad Appetit Downtown

Foodies, rejoice! Broad Appetit is a culinary festival that brings together the best local chefs and restaurants. Stroll through downtown Richmond and savor a variety of dishes, all while enjoying live music and entertainment. This event is perfect for those who love to indulge in delicious food and discover new flavors.

Richmond Jazz Festival

Immerse yourself in the smooth sounds of jazz at the Richmond Jazz Festival. Held annually, this festival features performances by renowned jazz artists from around the world. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or just looking for a relaxing way to spend a summer day, the Richmond Jazz Festival is a must-visit event.

Fall Festivities

fall festival in Richmond with autumn leaves and local events

As the leaves change color and the air turns crisp, Richmond comes alive with a variety of fall festivals that celebrate the season’s bounty and cultural heritage. Fall is a magical time in Richmond, offering something for everyone to enjoy.

Winter Wonders

winter festival in Richmond

Holiday Lights at the Garden

During the Grand Illumination, the city celebrates its holiday spirit with the lighting of buildings, a massive tree, reindeer, and more. With caroling and performances from local students and children, this event will launch you into your holiday celebrations. This is a free event and perfect for all ages.

New Year’s Eve Bash

Richmond offers a variety of New Year’s Eve celebrations, from elegant dinners to lively parties. Whether you prefer a quiet evening or a bustling event, there’s something for everyone to enjoy as you ring in the new year.

Christmas Parade

The annual Christmas Parade is a highlight of the season, featuring festive floats, marching bands, and a visit from Santa Claus. Richmond’s holiday spirit shines brightly during this event, making it a must-see for families and visitors alike.

Cultural Festivals

cultural festival in Richmond with diverse crowds and vibrant decorations

Lebanese Food Festival

Experience the rich flavors and vibrant culture of Lebanon at the Lebanese Food Festival. Held annually, this festival offers a variety of traditional Lebanese dishes, live music, and dance performances. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Lebanon.

Greek Festival

The Greek Festival is a beloved event in Richmond, celebrating Greek culture with authentic food, music, and dance. Visitors can enjoy traditional Greek dishes, shop for unique crafts, and watch live performances. Don’t miss the chance to experience a slice of Greece right here in Richmond.

Virginia Wine Expo

Wine enthusiasts will love the Virginia Wine Expo, a premier event showcasing the best wines from Virginia and beyond. The expo features wine tastings, educational seminars, and gourmet food pairings. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the diverse wine offerings of the region.

Richmond’s music and nightlife: a local’s guide to entertainment. Explore outdoor concerts, craft beer trail, wine bars, distilleries, themed nights, dive bars, live music hotspots, and unique neighborhoods in Richmond.

Music and Arts Events

Richmond music and arts festival

Richmond is a vibrant city with a thriving music and arts scene. Throughout the year, the city hosts a variety of events that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, folk, or film, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Richmond Jazz Festival

The Richmond Jazz Festival is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Held every summer, this festival features performances from world-renowned jazz artists. This season calls for sweaters, lattes, and love for local music. The festival not only showcases great music but also offers a variety of food and drink options, making it a perfect outing for families and friends.

Richmond Folk Festival

The Richmond Folk Festival is another highlight on the city’s event calendar. This festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage of folk music and dance. Held in the fall, it attracts thousands of visitors who come to enjoy live performances, workshops, and craft demonstrations. The festival is a great way to experience the diverse traditions that make up Richmond’s cultural fabric.

French Film Festival

For film enthusiasts, the French Film Festival in Carytown is a must-attend event. This festival showcases a selection of French films, ranging from classic to contemporary. It’s a unique opportunity to experience French culture through cinema. The festival also includes Q&A sessions with filmmakers, providing an insightful look into the world of French cinema.

Family-Friendly Fun

family enjoying a festival in Richmond

Richmond Night Market

The Richmond Night Market is a vibrant event that takes place on the second Saturday of each month. Families can enjoy a variety of local vendors, live music, and delicious food. It’s a perfect way to spend an evening exploring the unique things to do in Richmond.

Juneteenth Celebrations

Richmond’s Juneteenth Celebrations are a fantastic way for families to learn about and celebrate African American history and culture. The events include educational activities, live performances, and food vendors, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Civil War & Emancipation Day

Civil War & Emancipation Day offers a deep dive into Richmond’s rich history. Families can participate in guided tours, watch reenactments, and explore historical exhibits. It’s a great opportunity to learn about the past while enjoying a day out with the family.

Richmond offers a plethora of family-friendly events throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something exciting to do with kids.

Outdoor Adventures

festival in Richmond park with people enjoying outdoor activities

Dominion Riverrock

Dominion Riverrock is the nation’s premier outdoor sports and music festival, held annually on Brown’s Island. Participants can enjoy a variety of activities such as trail running, kayaking, biking, and even dog jumping competitions. It’s a perfect event for those who love to stay active and enjoy the great outdoors.

Riverfront Dragon Boat Festival

The Riverfront Dragon Boat Festival is a vibrant and exciting event that brings together teams from all over to compete in dragon boat races on the James River. This festival is not only about the races but also features cultural performances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. It’s a fantastic way to experience the rich cultural diversity of Richmond.

Sports Events at Brown’s Island

Brown’s Island is a hub for various sports events throughout the year. From marathons to cycling races, there’s always something happening for sports enthusiasts. The scenic views of the James River and the lively atmosphere make it a favorite spot for both participants and spectators.

Richmond’s outdoor events offer a unique blend of adventure, culture, and community spirit, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the great outdoors.

Food and Drink Festivals

food and drink festival in Richmond

Richmond is a haven for foodies and drink enthusiasts, offering a variety of festivals that celebrate the city’s culinary diversity. From BBQ tours to beer trails, there’s something for everyone.

Broad Appetit

When 70+ of Richmond’s best restaurants create $3 mini-dishes for all to enjoy, how could you possibly stay away? Multiple awards are given out at the end of the festival, including a People’s Choice Award. Broad Appetit benefits FeedMore, an organization that helps to solve hunger and nutrition problems in vulnerable areas. More thirsty than hungry? The festival also sells samples of various Virginia beers for just $6.

BBQ Tours

Explore Richmond’s rich BBQ scene with guided tours that take you to some of the best spots in the city. From traditional smoked meats to innovative BBQ dishes, these tours offer a mouth-watering experience. Many Virginia beers and various wines are available to wash down the good eats.

Richmond Beer Trail

For those who love craft beer, the Richmond Beer Trail is a must-visit. This self-guided tour takes you through some of the city’s best breweries, offering a chance to sample a wide range of local brews. There are also street vendors and even local farmers and food providers for you to gather up your fresh ingredients for dinner.

Historical and Heritage Events

historical festival in Richmond

Richmond is a city steeped in history, offering numerous events that celebrate its rich heritage. From the colonial era to the Civil War and beyond, there’s always something to explore and learn about in this historic city.

Civil War & Emancipation Day

Experience historic Richmond: a journey through time with Civil War & Emancipation Day. This event offers a deep dive into the city’s pivotal role during the Civil War and the emancipation of enslaved people. Expect reenactments, educational talks, and guided tours that bring history to life.

History & Heritage Tours

Explore Richmond’s rich history through various history & heritage tours. These tours cover everything from colonial origins to modern architecture, museums, and the James River’s significance. It’s a fantastic way to get a comprehensive understanding of the city’s past and present.

Hanover Tomato Festival

The Hanover Tomato Festival is not just about delicious tomatoes; it’s also a celebration of the area’s agricultural heritage. Enjoy local produce, crafts, and live music while learning about the farming traditions that have shaped the region.

Ongoing Events Throughout the Year

festivals and events in Richmond, year-round celebrations, community gatherings, seasonal events, local traditions, vibrant atmosphere, city landmarks

Richmond is a city that never sleeps when it comes to events. We’ve got concerts, major sporting events (NASCAR!), arts events, family festivals – basically, it’s one big continuous party here. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always something happening to keep you entertained.

Richmond Night Market

The Richmond Night Market runs from April to December on the second Saturday of each month. This vibrant event showcases local artisans, food vendors, and live music, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the art and soul of Richmond.

Local Concerts

From small indie bands to big-name artists, Richmond’s music scene is diverse and lively. Check out the downtown calendar to stay updated on the latest concerts and musical events happening throughout the year.

Family-Friendly Outdoor Events

Richmond offers a plethora of family-friendly outdoor events, from seasonal festivals to regular community gatherings. These events are perfect for spending quality time with loved ones while enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

You can also check out our events guides for Fall, Winter, and Spring. Looking for other things to do? Read about our top things to do in Richmond in the Summer.

Conclusion

Richmond is a city that truly knows how to celebrate, with festivals and events that cater to every interest and season. From the vibrant music and food festivals in the summer to the cultural and historical celebrations in the fall, there’s always something happening in RVA. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, make sure to mark your calendar and join in the fun. With such a diverse array of events, Richmond offers a unique opportunity to experience its rich culture and community spirit year-round. So, come out, explore, and enjoy all that this lively city has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular spring festivals in Richmond?

Some popular spring festivals in Richmond include Shamrock the Block in Scott’s Addition, the French Film Festival in Carytown, and The Irish Festival in Church Hill.

When does the Richmond Jazz Festival take place?

The Richmond Jazz Festival typically takes place during the summer months. Check the official festival website for exact dates and details.

Are there any family-friendly events in Richmond?

Yes, Richmond hosts several family-friendly events such as the Richmond Night Market, Juneteenth Celebrations, and Civil War & Emancipation Day.

What is Dominion Riverrock?

Dominion Riverrock is the nation’s premier outdoor sports and music festival, held on Brown’s Island in Richmond. It features a variety of outdoor activities, live music, and competitions.

Where can I find food and drink festivals in Richmond?

Richmond offers numerous food and drink festivals, including Broad Appetit, BBQ Tours, and the Richmond Beer Trail.

What cultural festivals are celebrated in Richmond?

Richmond celebrates various cultural festivals such as the Lebanese Food Festival, Greek Festival, and Virginia Wine Expo.

Are there any ongoing events throughout the year in Richmond?

Yes, there are ongoing events throughout the year in Richmond, including the Richmond Night Market, local concerts, and family-friendly outdoor events.

What are some notable historical and heritage events in Richmond?

Notable historical and heritage events in Richmond include Civil War & Emancipation Day, History & Heritage Tours, and the Hanover Tomato Festival.

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