More What’s Booming RVA: October 3 to 10
A week of entertaining and inspiring events plus a road trip and news
Hey RVA, there’s a fest for that! Festivals of traditional food and culture, dachshunds, wine, oysters, veggies, pho, cornball humor, a historic neighborhood, and a historic home. Plus music, history, dance, nature walks, and the Banned Wagon! What’s Booming in RVA, October 3 to 10, 2024.
Also check out:
- Boomer’s Top 5 picks in RVA this week,
- Browse the week ahead below, and
- Go to our updated events page for Down the Road happenings and ongoing exhibitions and performances.
October 3 to 10, 2024
Thursday, October 3
Westchester Concert Series Finale: En’Novation. Live music on the field, chairs and blankets encouraged, and food and drink available. Oct 3, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Westchester Concert Field, Midlothian.
“Relics Reunited: The Story of LTC Richard S. Thompson.” The Petersburg Civil War Roundtable presents Kenneth Bage on a soldier who served with the 12th New Jersey Volunteer Infantry, as part of the II Corps in the Army of the Potomac. Oct. 3, 7 p.m., at Pamplin Historical Park and the National Museum of the Civil War Soldier, Petersburg.
Jackiem Joyner. The Norfolk native, contemporary saxophonist, author, and music producer has a number one jazz album, several Billboard chart-topping hits, and a series of critically acclaimed books to his name. Oct. 3, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Out-of-School Day Camps. On 15 select days when students are out of school, Maymont offers educational and fun day camps. Oct. 3 to April 21, 2025, at Maymont, Richmond.
State Fair of Virginia. A beloved tradition continues, with midway, entertainment, exhibits, competitions, livestock and horticulture, shopping, food, and fun. Through Oct. 6 at The Meadow Event Park, Doswell.
“Stop Kiss.” A budding romance takes an unexpected turn when a simple kiss leads to a violent attack. As the couple navigates the aftermath, their friends and loved ones rally around them, forcing everyone to confront their own biases and the true power of love. Oct. 3 to 6 at Cousins Studio Theatre at Modlin Center for the Arts, University of Richmond.
Friday, October 4
Friday at the Museum: Deep Run School. Discover Henrico’s rich and varied heritage, the people, places, and events, through tours and activities. Oct. 4, noon to 4 p.m., at Deep Run School, Henrico.
Salsa Dance Class. Learn the popular Latin dance: spin, turn, and do solo moves called “Shines,” with or without a partner. 18+. Oct. 4, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., at Eastern Henrico Recreation Center, Henrico.
Paint and Sip. Painting, sparkling juice, and fun – inspiration and supplies provided. 18+. Oct. 4, 6 to 8 p.m., at Eastern Henrico Recreation Center, Henrico.
The Second City 65th Anniversary Show. See Boomer’s Top Picks.
Armenian Food Festival. See Boomer’s Top Picks.
Saturday, October 5
Dachtoberfest. All things wiener dogs, with races, costumes, raffles, vendors, and speakers. Oct. 5, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Richmond Raceway Complex, Richmond.
Glen Allen Day. Parade, followed by more than 100 vendors and several food stands, plus bands, entertainment, and kids’ activities. Oct. 5, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Meadow Farm/Crump Park, Glen Allen.
Scotchtown Fall Festival. Live music by the Hanover Concert Band, discussion of African American two-room schools, Baptist churches, and organizations, plus demonstrations and sales of traditional trades, food trucks, kids’ activities, alpacas, horses, and open house tours with living history interpreters. Oct. 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Patrick Henry’s Scotchtown, Beaverdam.
Powhatan’s Festival of the Grape. See Boomer’s Top Picks.
The Corniest Fall Festival Ever. Get ready for the Broadway musical “Shucked” with a fall festival celebrating corn. Live music, petting zoos, train rides, cornbread contest, and more. Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Monroe Park, Richmond.
Oystoberfest. Raw, fried, grilled, and even in a po’ boy, with craft beers, cider select wines, and other beverages plus homemade treats. Spend an afternoon in historic Ginter Park. Live music, bike valet, and more. All proceeds benefit the outreach work of St. Thomas Episcopal Church, including its food pantry. Oct. 5, noon to 6 p.m., at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Richmond.
Richmond VegFest 2024. See Boomer’s Top Picks.
The Banned Wagon. Penguin Random House is traveling through the Midwest and South to get books to people who need and want them. FREE banned books while supplies last. Oct. 5, noon to 4 p.m., at 106 Shockoe Slip, Richmond.
“Three Tailed Tales” with Chris Elle Dove. The author presents her kids’ book on three sister mermaids who come to the rescue. Oct. 5, noon to 4 p.m., at Book People, Henrico.
Trial by Fire: Tribute to Journey. The 1996 Trial by Fire tour never happened because lead singer Steve Perry injured himself. What would the Trial by Fire tour have looked like? Oct. 5, 7:30 p.m., at Jimmy Dean Theater, Perkinson Center, Chester.
Two Live Concerts from Pieces of a Dream. Presenting a signature fusion of Jazz, R&B, Funk, Pop, Blues, and beyond. Oct. 5, 2 and 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Miramar with The Richmond Symphony Pops. The sizzling energy of Cuban Latin boleros, synonymous with the sea and its hypnotic breeze, in concert with the Richmond Symphony. Oct. 5, 8 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.
2nd Street Festival. See Boomer’s Top Picks.
Two New VMFA Photography Exhibitions. See Boomer’s Top Picks.
Sunday, October 6
Fall Artisan Market & Craft Fair. Fall décor, holiday gifts, from local artists and makers selling handmade home décor, art, jewelry, apparel, and more. Oct. 6, noon to 5 p.m., at Strangeways Brewing in Scott’s Addition, Richmond.
PHO-toberfest. Special smoked beef short rib PHO and a special Oktoberfest beer. Oct. 6, 1 to 4 p.m., at The Answer Brewpub, Richmond.
The History of Midwives. From the beginning of time, the practice of midwifery was vital to our world, as women assisted other women in childbirth. Discover how the role of midwives would change for better and for worse in the latter half of the 20th century as the practice of delivering babies transitioned into a medical specialty. Oct. 6, 2 to 3 p.m., at Deep Run Park, Henrico.
Forest Hill Music in the Park. The annual summer concert series features Rodney Stith with old school soul. Take chairs, blankets, and picnics and enjoy one of Richmond’s iconic parks. Oct. 6, 3 to 5 p.m., beside the Stone House at Forest Hill Park, Richmond.
“Destination SoulTown” featuring The Sensational Soul Cruisers. Under the tutelage of legendary Jersey Shore saxophonist Screamin’ Steve Barlotta, The Sensational Soul Cruisers bring you classic Soul & Motown music from the period between the birth of Motown in 1960 to the release of Michael Jackson’s all-time selling Thriller album in 1983. Oct. 6, 7 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Tuesday, October 8
Seasonal Stroll: Phenology Exploration. Engage in citizen science by exploring phenology, the study of seasonal changes in nature. Learn the art of observation and contribute to scientific understanding and valuable research by making your own observations. Oct. 8, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at Deep Run Park, Henrico.
Genealogical Virtual Event. Separating DNA Fact from Fiction. People often turn to social media for DNA and genealogy questions, but frequently repeated quotes aren’t always true. Join us as we learn to separate fact from fiction and bring sense to some misunderstood topics. Hosted by GRIVA, the Genealogical Institute of Virginia. FREE, registration required. Oct. 8, 7 p.m., online.
Wednesday, October 9
Intro To Geocaching. This outdoor activity combines elements of treasure hunting, navigation, and exploration using GPS-enabled devices. In this class, you will learn the basics of geocaching, navigation techniques, and being safe in the environment, then find a few geocaches. Oct. 9, 4 to 6 p.m., at Deep Run Park, Henrico.
Introduction to Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR). Through TNVR programs, volunteers trap cats in humane traps, transport them to a veterinary hospital to be sterilized and vaccinated against rabies, and return them. Learn more. FREE. Oct. 9, 6 to 8 p.m., at Richmond SPCA, Richmond.
Gregg Karukas. The Grammy winning keyboardist and composer tickles the ivories and more with jazz melodies. Oct. 9, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
Thursday, October 10
89th Birthday Party with 89-cent Hot Dogs. Celebrate the iconic Virginia dive restaurant, founded in Roanoke, with its newest location in RVA. Oct. 10, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., at Texas Inn, Richmond.
Country Western Dance. Put on your favorite “boot scooting” shoes and western attire. Prize for the best western outfit. Favorite country and popular line dance music. Socialize and enjoy light refreshments. Oct. 10, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at Dorey Park and Recreation Center, Glen Allen.
Historically Speaking: Glen Allen History. Learn more about the people and places that became a community along Mountain Road from historian Bob Lehr. Q&A to follow. Oct. 10, 2 to 3 p.m., at Henrico Library, Glen Allen.
“Trans Kids, Our Kids” Panel. “Trans Kids, Our Kids: Stories and Resources from the Frontlines of the Movement for Transgender Youth” takes readers inside the movement for transgender youth, told through narratives that will open your eyes, break your heart, and give you hope. FREE. Oct. 10, 6 p.m., at Fountain Books, Richmond.
Center of the Universe Brewing Company JMU Football Watch Party. Meet the Brewer features Center of the Universe (COTU) brews, as founder and brewer, Chris Ray, answers questions and shares brewing insights (6 to 7:30 p.m.), followed by the James Madison University vs. Coastal Carolina football game. FREE. Oct. 10, 6 p.m., at Henrico Sports & Events Center, Glen Allen.
Gabriel Gathering: “Reclaiming Black Cemeteries – Reclaiming Resistance.” Honor Richmond’s historic Black cemeteries and unveil a second state historic marker in the historic spot, “Richmond’s First Municipal African Cemetery.” Oct. 10, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Shockoe Bottom African Burial Ground, Richmond.
Rebecca Frazier. High-energy, female-led bluegrass and beyond show that features award-winning musicianship and songwriting with her band Hit & Run. Oct. 10, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.
News & Announcements
First chance for Michael Jackson tickets
“MJ: The Musical” Tickets. The four-time Tony Award-winning new musical highlights the genius of Michael Jackson, playing at Altria Theater from Jan. 28 to Feb. 2, 2025. Tickets for the Richmond production go on sale online, at the Altria Theater box office, or at 1-800-514-3849(ETIX), starting Oct. 4 at 10 a.m.
Road Trip
A chance to be crabby
42nd Annual West Point Crab Carnival. Live music, beverages, shopping, fireworks, parade, kids’ activities, a hot sauce eating contest, and plenty of crabs. Oct. 4 and 5 in West Point.
Click here to make plans with this list of events to come and ongoing exhibitions and performances.
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