More What’s Booming RVA: July 18 to 25
A week of entertaining and inspiring events plus a road trip and news
Welcome cooler temperatures and open-air concerts, artists, authors, railroads, theatrical performances, beer, cigars, wine, and more! In today’s What’s Booming, Richmond, Virginia, July 18 to 25, 2024.
Get your calendar filled with:
- 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.
July 18 to 25, 2024
Thursday, July 18
Artist Talk: Michelle Galiano. The artist discusses her evolving art practice and environmentalism and shows the natural materials she uses in her non-toxic paints. July 18, 5:30 p.m., at Page Bond Gallery – Cary Street Gallery, Richmond.
“A Fine Opportunity Lost” Virtual Book Talk. Colonel Ed Lowe discusses his book, the story of General James Longstreet, whose conflict with opponent Ambrose Burnside decided the fate of East Tennessee, Chattanooga, and the reputations of the respective commanders. Sponsored by The American Civil War Museum. FREE. July 18, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., online.
“This Fierce People” with Alan Pell Crawford. Local author discusses his newest look at the Revolutionary War, the overlooked story of the critical aspect of America’s Revolutionary War that was fought in the South. FREE, registration required. July 18, 6 p.m., at Fountain Bookstore, Richmond.
“James and the Giant Peach.” See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.
Grand Opening Events at Taylor Farm Park. Henrico County’s newest park kicks off with an array of special events. The park includes family-focused features like a spray park, nature-based play areas, an “all-wheel” park for bicycles, skateboards, and roller skates, and a memorial to public safety workers and military service members. Events include BMX events, “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” outdoor movie, and live music. Through July 20 at Taylor Farm Park, Sandston.
Friday, July 19
Plunky Day in RVA. Celebrating the Richmond native’s 77th birthday and decades of music service. Featuring Plunky & Oneness, E.U. and Sugar Bear, jazz diva Desiree Roots, and more. July 19, 5 to 10 p.m., at Kanawha Plaza, Richmond.
Saturday, July 20
9,000 Square Feet of Model Trains: Trains, Trucks & Tractors at Keystone. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.
Collections Up Close: Fun in the Sun – Virginians on Vacation. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.
The Long Steel Rail: Songs of the Railroads. The Broad Street Rambler will celebrate the legacy of Virginia’s railroads with a multimedia presentation of rare photographs, period recordings, and live music featuring brave engineers, traveling hobos, gandydancers, and much more. All ages. Glen Allen Branch Library, Glen Allen.
Brewtown 2024. Virginia beers and ciders from more than 12 producers, live music, plus misting fans and a cold room! Raising money for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. July 20, 1 to 9 p.m., at 2000 Dock St., Richmond.
Smoke & Vine Festival. Cigars and wines highlight this all-day party, paired with live entertainment, DJs, food, vendors, and games. July 20, 4 to 10 p.m., at The Training Center, Richmond.
Spectacle of Appalling Grandeur: Artillery Use at Petersburg – FREE Sunset Tour. Cannons and mortars were used extensively throughout the Siege of Petersburg. Learn the tactics, see how they were fired, and understand why they were so terrifying. The program starts at the Eastern Front Visitor Center, discussing the types of artillery. July 20, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Petersburg National Battlefield, Petersburg.
“Calving Season” with Debbie Collins. The Richmond poet reads selected works from her newest collection, reflecting a life of challenges and happiness in life, death, conflict, and hope, in the farm and the city. July 20, 7 to 8 p.m., at Book People, Henrico.
Beach Night with the Kickers. The Richmond Kickers vs. Greenville Triumph SC – Cup Match. July 20, 7 p.m., at City Stadium, Richmond.
Pocahontas Premieres: The English Channel. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.
TFP Live Music: Drew & The Loyal Skeptics. Part of the celebrations at the new Henrico County park, with live music and food trucks. July 20, 6 to 8 p.m., at Taylor Farm Park, Sandston.
“Hypocrite: The Musical.” A jubilant gospel comedy that tells of a spirited prostitute who becomes an unexpected savior for a dilapidated church in need of redemption, on a journey filled with laughter, tears, and soul-stirring melodies. July 20 to 21 at Perkinson Center, Chester.
“A Few More for the Road: Alan Sader’s Bucket List.” Six readings featuring the film, TV, and theatre actor. Works by great playwrights, bridging comedy and tragedy, contemplating life and death, read by some of Richmond’s finest actors, all of whom share love for Mr. Sader. FREE, reservations requested. July 20, 2 p.m. and July 21, 1 p.m., at Robert B. Moss Theatre, Richmond.
Annual Gallery Members Exhibition: July Open House & Artist Reception. A retrospective exhibit featuring the work of Ed Hoel and an abundance of deals from the July Art Bazaar. Plus, hunt for decorated rocks hidden throughout the store, explore our latest exhibitions, and potentially discover your next favorite artist. Opening weekend: July 20 and 21, exhibition on view through Aug. 31, at Crossroads Art Center, Richmond.
Sunday, July 21
Brunch Market at River City Roll. Local Richmond artists and makers selling handmade home décor, art, jewelry, apparel, and more. July 21, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at River City Roll, Richmond.
A Memorial for Stella. See Boomer’s Top 5 Picks.
Wednesday, July 24
Introduction to Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (TNVR). Learn how to be a part of transporting feral cats to a veterinary hospital to be sterilized and vaccinated, returning them afterwards. FREE, registration required. July 24, 6 to 8 p.m., at Richmond SPCA, Richmond.
“Good Food for All: An Institutional Dining Revolution.” Dan Giusti, chef and founder of Brigaid, and Dr. Victoria J. Findlay, associate professor at VCU School of Medicine and co-leader of the Cancer Prevention and Control Programs at Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center, discuss the work Giusti is doing to reduce hunger, promote nutrition, and decrease diet-related illnesses across the landscape of institutional dining. July 24, 6 p.m., at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond.
Thursday, July 25
Christmas in July. Christmas-themed movies, decorations, and activities. “Jingle All the Way” at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., “Scrooged” at 7 p.m. Movie tickets and concessions $1 each. Accepting contributions to the Henrico Christmas Mother. July 25, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., at Henrico Theatre, Henrico.
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. July 25, noon to 1 p.m., at the Valentine, Richmond.
“Grace Sherwood: The History Behind the Legend of the Witch of Pungo.” When Grace Sherwood was dunked in the Lynnhaven River during her trial for witchcraft in 1706, she became a part of Virginia’s folklore and culture. People have been sharing stories about “the Witch of Pungo” for generations. The reality of her life and trial is often told using a blend of fact and fiction. This lecture will reveal the history behind the legend. July 25, noon, at the Virginia Museum of History and Culture, Richmond, and online (free online).
Unhappy Hour: Speakeasy. A Poe-inspired mix of themed fun, music, food, and beverages. Roarin’ ’20s attire encouraged. July 25, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Poe Museum, Richmond.
Collections Connections Live: School Days Selections. Yearbooks, autograph albums, letter jackets and charm bracelets – there are countless souvenirs that Richmonders have kept to remember their school days. See objects in the Valentine’s collection that document students’ experiences in the city’s educational institutions. July 25, 6 to 7 p.m., at The Valentine, Richmond.
Art Night. The reveal of four new exhibits: By the James, In the City; Vignettes of Reality; Farm Stand; and Lion Rock Painting Masterpieces. Plus meet and mingle with artists. FREE. July 25, 6 to 8 p.m., at The Cultural Arts Center, Glen Allen.
“Pippin.” Cadence Theatre presents the musical story of Pippin, heir to the Frankish throne, as he searches for the elusive secret of true happiness, learning that the quest can be fulfilled in everyday moments. July 25 to 28 at Dominion Energy Center, Richmond.
Road Trip
Make plans to celebrate Southwest Virginia
75th Virginia Highlands Festival. More than 200 events highlight the arts, history, natural beauty, and culture of Southwest Virginia. Uncover treasures at the Antiques & Vintage Market. Shop for unique handcrafted items at the Arts & Crafts Show. Have an outdoor excursion at Hungry Mother State Park and take a walking tour of a local vineyard. Learn all about Appalachian food and history from experts who are passionate about sharing their knowledge. Cap it all off with lots of music and dance the night away. July 26 to Aug. 4, in and around Abingdon.
News & Announcements
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. Events include:
- 804 Day. A free all-day music and arts block party in Shockoe Bottom with multiple stages of music, food, artisans, and non-profit vendors. Artists include Nickelus F, Ant The Symbol, Erin and the Wildfire, Høly River, Rein, Los Hermanos Alacranes, Weldon Hill, Knifing Around, Kadencia, Palmyra, Flight Club, Dead Billionaires, Vexine, Weekend Plans, The Sugar Hollows, Niiasii, and The Sweet Potatoes. Aug. 2, 4 to 9 p.m., at 17th Street Farmers Market, Richmond.
- 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.
- Music Mixer & Fundraiser, Aug. 4 at KavaClub, Richmond.
- Shockoe Sessions Live, Aug. 6 at In Your Ear Studios, Richmond.
- Writers Round Series, Aug. 8 at Spacebomb Studio, Richmond.
Click here to make plans with this list of events to come and ongoing exhibitions and performances.
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