More What’s Booming RVA: Feb. 13 to 20

Whether you’re celebrating a significant other, friends, or yourself for Valentine’s Day and beyond, you’ll find plenty to do this week in Richmond: concerts galore, beer events, Black history entertainment and education, ballet, and more. All in “RVA Events & News: February 13 to 20.”

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.

February 13 to 20

Thursday, February 13

RVA Community Makers 2025 Unveiling. Revealing a sculpted art project dedicated to this year’s honorees of RVA Community Makers. FREE. February 13, 6 to 7 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

“’Round Midnight.” Set in the 1950s New York jazz scene, Dexter Gordon stars as an aging saxman who turns to the bottle to numb the pain of racism, family troubles, and other hardships. A gig in Paris earns him respect and new friendships, but will he take a new lease on life? Herbie Hancock won an Oscar for the score. Part of the Black History Month Film Festival. February 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Twin Hickory Area Library, Glen Allen.

“Dead Dead Girls” by Nekesa Afia: Book Discussion for Black History Month. In 1920s Harlem, Louise is enjoying life, working hard during the day and dancing through the night, but when she stumbles across a dead body on her way to work, she is dragged into a murder investigation that hits very close to home. February 13, 7 to 8 p.m., at Tuckahoe Area Library, Henrico.

“Wait Wait … Don’t Tell Me!” The weekly radio show and podcast presents a panel of comedians, writers, listener contestants, and celebrity guests as they take us through a rollicking review of the week’s news, live on stage. February 13, 7:30 p.m., at Altria Theater, Richmond.

Jazz Faculty Septet Presents: Roy Haynes Tribute Concert. Honoring the legendary jazz drummer. February 13, 7:30 p.m., at Sonia Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Richmond.

Leyla McCalla. Born in New York City to Haitian emigrants and activists, McCalla’s music vibrates with centuries of history and influences from around the globe. With a stunning mastery of cello, banjo, and guitar, and as a multilingual singer and songwriter, she produces a distinctive sound that reflects her roots and experience. February 13, 7:30 p.m., at Modlin Center for the Arts, University of Richmond.

Appalachian Road Show. The acoustic ensemble brings new-generation interpretations of traditional Americana, bluegrass, and folk songs alongside innovative original music, all with a common thread through the heart of Appalachia. February 13, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Friday, February 14

Love in Bloom. Stroll hand-in-hand along picturesque trails while you learn about the area’s flora and fauna. Meet in front of the recreation center. Feb. 14, 8:30 to 10 a.m., at Deep Run Park, Henrico.

PAAL Group Exhibition Opening. Celebrate the power of love, creativity, and resilience with works by local artists Julie Elkins, George Ferrandi, Allan Rosenbaum, Kendra Wadsworth, Carrie Watterworth, and Susann Whittier. Exhibition runs through March 29. Opening reception Feb. 14, 6 to 8 p.m., at Petersburg Area Art League, Petersburg.

Sam Bush w/ The Sugar Hollows. Sam Bush, mandolinist and an originator of progressive bluegrass music, is joined by local musicians. Feb. 14, 7 p.m., at The Broadberry, Richmond.

Adam Hawley. The contemporary jazz artist, composer, and band leader performs a combination of original and favorites from other beloved musicians. Feb. 14, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Ginger Minj’s “The Big Gay Cabaret.” Richmond Triangle Players presents Ginger Minj, a finalist from “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in season 7 and comedy queen of the South. Feb. 14 and 15 at Robert B. Moss Theatre, Richmond.

“Cinderella.” See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.  

Great Backyard Bird Count. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.

Saturday, February 15

Weekend Film Fest: A Spike Lee Joint. View any or all of five films by the talented, prolific director and producer. From “School Daze” (1988) to “Inside Man” (2006). Feb. 15 and 16 at West End Branch Library, Richmond.

A Conversation with Elizabeth Keckley. Historical interpreter Traci Marie Coleman tells the story of the former slave from Dinwiddie, Virginia. A Chesterfield County and VSU Black History Month program. Feb. 15, 10:30 to 11:15 a.m., at Meadowdale Library, Ampthill.

Falcon Week with the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. Meet the team behind the RVA Falcon Cam, learn about Richmond’s peregrine falcons, and enjoy hands-on activities for all ages. Plus, sip on some Falcon beer favorites to be released throughout the week. Feb. 15, noon to 4 p.m., at Triple Crossing Fulton, Richmond.

Richmond Beer Fest 2025. Presented by Stone Brewing but pouring from more than a dozen regional breweries and a cidery. Unlimited tastings, food for purchase. Indoor event. Feb. 15, noon to 4 p.m., at Stone Brewing, Richmond.

Honoring Black Labor Leaders. The inspiring stories of Black labor leaders and advocates who had a profound impact on the labor movement and the influence of Black labor on the nation’s economy and American democracy. A Chesterfield County and VSU Black History Month program. Feb. 15, 1 to 2 p.m., at Midlothian Library, Midlothian.

“As You Wish” with Nashae Jones. The author reads from her book and signs copies of her middle grade rom-com. Feb. 15, 1 to 3 p.m., at Book People, Henrico.

Opus 20: Free Anniversary Concert. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.  

Last Seen: Finding Family After the Civil War. After the Civil War, African Americans desperately sought information on relatives. In a powerful twist, they repurposed a tool of enslavement to rebuild the bonds the system sought to destroy. This presentation delves into the heartache and hope in these advertisements seeking information. Feb. 15, 2 to 3 p.m., at Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, Glen Allen.

Valentines on Broadway: A Romantic Afternoon. Scott Wichmann and Jason Marks present a program of love songs, with Ryan Corbitt on piano. Reception following. Feb. 15, 4 p.m., at Grace & Holy Trinity Church, Richmond.

Songs for Lovers by Barron Ryan. Old classic and new love songs in a piano concert. The first half features captivating tunes from the American songbook and classical music, then originals. Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m., at Perkinson Center, Chester.

Heart & Soul: Ms. Jaylin Brown. Legends on Grace presents neo-soul “heartscapes,” a journey through songs of love, interlaced with jazz, blues, and R&B. Feb. 15, 8 p.m., at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.

Sunday, February 16

Reenactment in Honor of Presidents Day. Historical interpreters bring Patrick Henry and his fellow delegates to life as they debate taking up arms against the king. Plus meet and greet with delegates and church tour. Feb. 16, noon to 3:15 p.m., at St. John’s Church, Richmond.

Artisan Market at Strangeways. Sip and shop handmade items from local vendors. Feb. 16, noon to 5 p.m., at Strangeways Brewing in Scott’s Addition, Richmond.

Making the Ground Talk: Documenting Black Cemeteries. Visual journalist and educator Brian Palmer and Dr. Sarah Kennel discuss how Palmer documents efforts to restore Black gravesites following years of neglect. Feb. 16, 2 to 3 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

Read Up Richmond: The History of Black Nurses in Virginia. Presented by the Central Virginia Black Nurses Association. Will also be live streamed on YouTube. Feb. 16, 2 to 3 p.m., at Main Library, Richmond.

Celebration. Chamber Music Society of Central Virginia celebrates its 20th anniversary with Felix Mendelssohn’s Octet, opus 20, with a new octet from Richmond’s Donovan Williams, plus more. Feb. 16, 4 p.m., at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Richmond.

VCU Guitar Series Presents: Robinson Guitar Duo. An intimate stage-seated concert with local guitarists Kathy and David Robinson. Feb. 16, 4 to 6 p.m., at Sonia Vlahcevic Concert Hall, Richmond.

“Untitled: The Art of Jaraz Jenkins.” Richmond-based Subterracon Films premieres its new documentary, a crowd-sourced, nonprofit-supported educational project, featuring a Richmond artist who survived a life on the street and jail-time to build a new, creative and positive future. Feb. 16, 6 p.m., at Studio Two Three, Richmond.

Mike Dawes. The English guitarist is known for composing, arranging, and performing multiple parts simultaneously on a single guitar, as one of the world’s most creative modern fingerstyle guitarists, with a repertoire spanning original viral videos and popular arrangements. Feb. 16, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Monday, February 17

Presidents’ Day Naturalization Ceremony. Judge David J. Novak swears in candidates as naturalized American citizens during an official ceremony. Celebration and activities to follow. Feb. 17, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Tuesday, February 18

“I Am Ali”: Black History Month Film Festival. An intimate look at the man behind the legend. Feb. 18, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Twin Hickory Area Library, Glen Allen.

Black Minds in STEM: Experiments of Black Scientists. Learn of African American inventors including the creator of the traffic light, ice cream, and mobile refrigeration as we honor groundbreaking scientists who made everyday life better for everyone. All ages. Feb. 18, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at Taylor Farm Park, Sandston.

Reclaiming the History of the Old City Hall Building. Explore the legacy of Richmond’s Old City Hall and the coalition of Black and White trade unionists in the 1880s who championed a bold vision for the city’s future. Hear how racial healing, unity, and equity can be fostered through a re-examination of this overlooked chapter of Richmond history. Registration required. Feb. 18, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

The Lawrence Olds Band – Blues and Jazz Concert. The local crooner extraordinaire brings the standards to life with his rich, smooth voice and expert musicians to accompany him. Feb. 18, 7 p.m., at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.

Mancini. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.

Tommy Castro & The Painkillers. “Castro is one of the brightest stars in the blues-soul genre. Voracious blues energy and ultimate soul power … impassioned vocals and pure inventiveness in his stellar guitar solos,” wrote Blues Music Magazine. Feb. 18, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

Wednesday, February 19

Introduction to African American Genealogy. An overview of conducting research, including strategies, resources, and techniques to trace Black ancestors. A Chesterfield County and VSU Black History Month program. Feb. 19, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at Central Library, Chesterfield.

Collection Connection: Black History Month. Exploring VMFA’s American art galleries with a closer look at a recently acquired sculpture by the Mississauga Ojibwe and African American artist Edmonia Lewis. FREE. Feb. 19, 11 to 11:45 a.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

“The Mysterious Mrs. Nixon: The Life and Times of Washington’s Most Private First Lady.” Author Heath Hardage Lee addresses the essential nature of a First Lady, an empathetic, adventurous, self-made woman who wanted no power or influence but connected warmly with ordinary Americans and people from different cultures worldwide. Livestreaming (FREE) and presenting in person. Feb. 19, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.

Live at the Branch: The ’60s Jazzed Up! Popular songs from the decade of transformation and love, with classic and deep-cut songs by Burt Bacharach, Joni Mitchell, The Beatles, Neil Diamond, and more. Plus light hors d’oeuvres and wines. Feb. 19, 6 p.m., at the Branch Museum of Architecture and Design, Richmond.

“The Freedman’s Bank and Black Economic Freedom in Reconstruction Virginia.” Author Dr. Justene Hill Edwards presents the Black History Month keynote lecture, exploring the rise and fall of the Freedman’s Savings and Trust Company, a bank founded in 1865 to support formerly enslaved people. With a focus on Virginia’s four Freedman’s Bank branches, she examines how its brief success and ultimate collapse shaped Black economic aspirations during Reconstruction and beyond. Feb. 19, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, Richmond.

 “The Sound of Santiago.” See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.

Succulent Container Garden Workshop. Create a beautiful container garden with guidance from Maymont staff in this make-and-take workshop. Take your own gloves; all other materials provided. 21+, alcohol available. Feb. 19 and 20, 6 to 8 p.m. both nights, at Maymont, Richmond.

Parker Barrow. The blues-infused Southern rock band led by husband and wife duo Megan Kane (vocals) and Dylan Turner (drums), supported by the formidable Alex Bender (guitar) takes the stage as anything from a 5-piece to a 10-piece band. Feb. 19, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

“Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom” by Ilyon Woo: Book Discussion for Black History Month – Two Groups. In 1848, William and Ellen Craft, a young enslaved couple from Georgia, ingeniously disguise themselves to escape slavery, braving a 1,000-mile journey to freedom. Feb. 19, 1 to 2 p.m., and 7 to 8 p.m., at Libbie Mill Area Library, Henrico.

Thursday, February 20

“Hidden Figures” Movie Matinee. Celebrate Black History Month with a movie about some amazing women, right here in Virginia, who worked at Langley Aeronautical Laboratory in the 1940, helping to develop American space technology despite race and gender discrimination. FREE. Feb. 20, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., at Bensley Recreation Center, North Chesterfield.

Pocahontas State Park Group Camp 7 Presentation. Learn of the challenges faced by those in the segregated portion of Pocahontas State Park and hear inspiring tales of resilience and community spirit. 50+, FREE. Feb. 20, 1 to 2 p.m., at Chesterfield Baptist Church, Moseley.

African American Read-In. Notable figures from the greater Richmond community deliver readings in the galleries. The storytelling pairs evocative and powerful works by African American artists and authors. FREE. Feb. 20, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond.

RVA Green Drinks February Gathering. Mary Rafferty, Executive Director of the Virginia Conservation Network (VCN) speaks of environmental and conservation bills that survived crossover and how to advocate with delegates and senators. FREE, registration requested. Feb. 20, 5:30 to 7 p.m., at The Answer Brewpub, Richmond.

“The Black Tax: 150 Years of Theft, Exploitation, and Dispossession in America,” by Andrew Kahrl: Author Talk. From Reconstruction to today, structural features of the country’s tax system have stripped African American landowners of assets and diverted wealth from Black households. Feb. 20, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Libbie Mill Area Library, Henrico.

Fret Brothers WSG Erin Flynn on Cello. These three Richmond players have been making music since the mid-’60s, absorbing influences from Buddy Holly to Merle Haggard, from Dylan to Elvis and the British Invasion. Feb. 20, 8 p.m., at The Tin Pan, Richmond.

News to Know

Friday Cheers and Cap2Cap bike event for all

Friday Cheers Announces Its 2025 Lineup. Richmond’s longest-running concert series begins its 40th anniversary season on Brown’s Island every week in May and June. Advance tickets for individual shows and season passes are available for purchase. Season passes are $55 through March 2, $65 thereafter. For details, visit Venture Richmond’s website.

• May 2 – Chaparelle (8:00pm) with Jack Wharff and the Tobacco Flatts (6:30pm)
• May 9 – Bully (8:00pm) with Rikki Rakki (6:30pm)
• May 23 – RVA Music Night: Dogpark (8:20pm), Caroline Vain (7:15pm) and Weekend Plans (6:15pm)
• May 30 – Josiah and the Bonnevilles (8:00pm) with Jonathan Paige Brown Jr. (6:30pm)
• June 6 – Kashus Culpepper (8:00pm) with Ramona & the Holy Smokes  (6:30pm)
• June 13 – La Lom (8:00pm) with Afro-Zen Allstars (6:30pm)
• June 20 – The War and Treaty (8:00pm) with Mekong Xpress & the Get Fresh Horns (6:30pm)
• June 27 – Say She She (8:00pm) with Big Fancy (6:30pm)

Cap2Cap. Celebrating its 20th ride, the event highlights history, community, and adventure along the scenic Virginia Capital Trail. Distances range from 7 to 100+ miles, suitable for all skill levels, with stocked rest stops, open-start format, bike tech support, restrooms, party zones, naturally scenic views, and lots of extra perks. May 9 (at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, James City County) and May 10 (at Dorey Park, Henrico County) along the Capital Trail from Williamsburg to Richmond.

Anticipation … !

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