Around Richmond

If you know Richmond at all, you probably know we love a festival. A reason to get together. We adore a little “where are you, what are you doing, let's meet up?” (If there's a beer truck, and music, even better, but that's not what we're talking about here.) The Walk for Peace (in Richmond as I type, but they came into the area yesterday by way of Petersburg) felt like the opposite of that kind of energy—on purpose. A group of Venerable Buddhist monks (the Venerable Monks of the Dhammacetiya) came through Richmond, Virginia today as part of their Walk for Peace—a 120 day on-foot journey from Fort Worth, Texas to Washington, D.C.. But instead of bringing the usual “big event” vibe, they brought quiet. Purpose. Peace. This week’s Richmond highlight is… stillness. I got to see them yesterday in Chester, Virginia, and it was beautiful, quiet, lovely, and inspiring. It wasn’t performative. It wasn’t loud. It wasn’t trying to sell anyone on anything. It was simply a steady line of footsteps—and a crowd of all ages and all types who, for once, seemed perfectly willing to match that energy. In the frozen spot of winter we’re in right now, it felt unifying in a way that surprised me. They're headed out of Richmond tomorrow, and continue on their way to Washington, DC, where they'll arrive next week. The quote I keep replaying You know when a sentence lands so well that you think about it for days? This is the one that has really stuck with me (from their social media): “We walk not to bring you peace, but to remind you it never left—it's been there through every storm, every heartbreak, every lonely night, waiting with infinite patience for you to notice it again. May our footsteps help you turn inward and find it. And may that discovery be like sunrise after the longest night, dispelling shadows you thought were permanent and filling your whole being with radiant wellness, with comfort, with belonging.” That’s… a lot of truth in one breath. Powerful and beautiful. 3–5 practical ways to support the monks (and show up respectfully) 1) Donate financially (official options) The official “How to Support” page lists an online donation option (via Zeffy) and also a Zelle option. Zelle: [email protected] 2) Offer food support (if you’re local / coordinating a stop) They also have a specific food donation offer form and a coordinator phone number listed for food support. 3) Track where they are in real time Their official Live Map is updated periodically (they note roughly every 15–60 minutes). If you’re trying to catch a stop location rather than guessing along the route, this is the best way. 4) Follow itinerary updates Their Overview Map is updated once daily at night, and they point people to their official Facebook updates for the most current daily specifics. There are loads of videos, photos, and updates to be found there. Aloka, the "Peace Dog" even has his own social media. 5) A quick note on “how to be there” If you’re going out to watch or walk nearby: bring your calm. Give space. Let it be quiet. A few simple ways to “turn inward” and find the peace they’re pointing to Not as a fix, or a  life overhaul. Just small, practical ways to notice what’s already there, and let it center you in a world that is all too often completely chaotic: 1) The 60-second “return” Set a timer for one minute.Breathe in slowly. Breathe out slower.On each exhale, silently think: “Here.”That’s it. 2) One block, no phone Walk one block (or one minute inside your house if it’s too cold).Feel your feet. Notice sound. Notice light.If your mind spins, just come back to: step… step… step… 3) The “name three” reset When you feel edgy or overwhelmed, name: 3 things you can see 3 things you can hear 3 sensations you can feel It’s a fast way to come back into your body. 4) A tiny kindness (quietly) Hold a door. Send a “thinking of you” text. Tip a little extra if you can.Not for karma points, but just because it gently reorients you toward connection. What I’m taking with me We love a reason to get together. But there’s something about a community gathering around quiet—especially in winter—that feels like a different kind of medicine. A reminder that belonging can be simple. That comfort can be shared. That peace doesn’t have to be manufactured. Maybe it never left.Maybe it’s just been waiting—patiently—for us to notice again. We may not all be able to walk their walk, but hopefully we all learn a bit from it.

February in Richmond is packed with ways to get out, stay cozy, and enjoy everything RVA has to offer. From Valentine’s Day celebrations and Galentine’s markets to festivals, live music, family-friendly activities, and community events, something is happening almost every day of the month. Below, you’ll find a day-by-day guide to events in and around Richmond, VA for February 2026, making it easy to plan your weekends, or any day. Whether you’re looking for date-night ideas, things to do with friends or family, or local happenings to explore solo, this list has you covered. Sunday, February 1 🎨 Open Studio Sunday | RVA Community Makers – 1:00 PM–3:00 PM at VMFA Thursday, February 5 ❓ Trivia Night at Bingo (Scotts Addition) – 7:00 PM–9:00 PM 🎭 The Friendship & Music of Loretta Lynn & Patsy Cline – 7:00 PM. Friday, February 6 🖼 After 5 Fridays at VMFA – 6:00 PM–8:00 PM Galentine's Bloom Bar – 6:00 PM–8:00 PM Saturday, February 7 🍦 Ice Cream for Breakfast at Ruby Scoops – 8:00 AM–6:00 PM 🍦 National Ice Cream for Breakfast Day at Gelati Celesti – 9:00 AM–12:00 PM 🍽 Scotty’s Ultimate Galentine’s Brunch – 11:00 AM–3:00 PM ❤️ Richmond Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival 2026 - 11:30 AM-9:00 PM 🎶 An Evening with Leslie and The Dots @ Black Iris Social Club – 8:00 PM 🎶 Candlelight: The Best of Bridgerton on Strings – 8:45 PM–10:00 PM 🐶 Beauty & the Beast Dog Show (Richmond Raceway Complex) – All day ❄️ Snowball Festival – 11:00 AM–4:00 PM 🔥🐴 ChinaFest: Year of the Fire Horse | Family Day - 10:00 AM-4:30 PM Sunday, February 8 💕 Lakeside Love Fest 2026 – 11:00 AM–3:00 PM at Lakeside Farmer’s Market Valentine's Day Market – 1:00 PM–5:00 PM Wednesday, February 11 🎷 Dominion Energy Jazz Café – 6:00 PM–8:00 PM at VMFA Thursday, February 12 🐶 Dog Kissing Booth at Richmond SPCA – 4:00 PM–7:00 PM 🖼 RVA Community Makers 2026 Unveiling at VMFA – 6:00 PM 💡 Laser Show: Prince @ Science Museum of Virginia – 6:30 PM & 8:15 PM ❓ Trivia Night at Bingo – 7:00 PM–9:00 PM Friday, February 13 🖼 After 5 Fridays at VMFA – 6:00 PM–8:00 PM 🎭 Dark Valentine’s Fantasy Ball: A Morbid Masquerade (21+) – 8:00 PM–1:00 AM Saturday, February 14 – Valentine’s Day 🎧 Silent Valentine Party – 7:00 PM–10:00 PM 🎶 My Funny Valentine: Scott Wichmann & Friends – 8:00 PM–10:00 PM 🍺 Pours & Pasties: Valentine’s Edition – 9:00 PM–11:00 PM 🦎 Richmond Reptile Expo – 9:00 AM (Richmond Raceway Complex) Comedy Show: LOLentine's – 8:00 PM–10:00 PM Sunday, February 15 💐 2026 Galentine’s Day Market at Hardywood – 12:00 PM–5:00 PM 🍻 Sips & Sweethearts @ Cirrus Vodka – 1:00 PM–4:00 PM 🎱 Bingo at Bingo – 3:00 PM–5:00 PM Wednesday, February 18 🎷 Dominion Energy Jazz Café – 6:00 PM–8:00 PM Thursday, February 19 ❓ Trivia Night at Bingo – 7:00 PM–9:00 PM Friday–Sunday, February 20–22 🌸 History Blooms @ Virginia Museum of History & Culture (Floral Exhibit) – Daily Saturday, February 21 🍻 Richmond Beer Fest – 12:00 PM–4:00 PM Saturday, February 28 🌍 World Wildlife Day & RVA Environmental Film Festival @ Maymont – 10:00 AM–4:00 PM ⭐ Ongoing/Running All Month 🎨 RVA Community Makers 2026 Art Installation – Feb 13 to Mar 29 at VMFA

The stretch between late fall and the holiday season in Richmond, VA hits different. The light gets a little softer, markets start popping up everywhere, and calendars start filling faster than the parking lot at Libbie Market on a Saturday morning. So before the holiday shopping lists, school programs, travel plans, and cookie swaps sweep us into a flurry (hush, Mariah, it's not time yet) this year, I'm taking a little time to get back to basics. Think: no-scroll mornings, tech-free afternoons, and simple rituals that remind us life doesn’t have to move at the speed of a push notification. Call it pre-holiday grounding. Call it touching some RVA grass. Call it protecting your peace.Whatever you want to call it, here are some local analog adventures to help you slow down and savor the season. Treats & Tiny Rituals Start with zero obligations and something delicious. Croissant & Sidewalk Sunshine at Idle Hands BakeryFlaky pastry. Hot coffee. Warm sun with a chill in the air. Your only to-do is be here. Canelés & Coffee from WPA Bakery - Forest Hill ParkPick up the caramelized, custardy magic that is a WPA canelé, then head to Forest Hill Park. Sip coffee. Study the leaves. This is meditation, Richmond-style. Ukrop’s Rainbow Cookies from Libbie MarketRichmond nostalgia in cookie form. No explanation needed. Go anywhere that feeds your childhood vibes. Build-Your-Own Tea Ritual at ApothecCraft a custom blend, breathe in herbs and warm spices, and let the cozy atmosphere wrap around you like a wool scarf. Quiet Corners to Read Something (Paper Pages Only) Richmond has no shortage of indie bookstores—and fall is their season to shine. Shelf Life Books (Carytown) — New, used, and always something local. Stop, browse, talk books, or just read. Fountain Bookstore (Shockoe Slip) — The handwritten staff notes alone are worth the trip. Abi’s Books & Brews (1212 1/2 Cary) — A book nook with coffee, personality, and charm. The Richmond Zine Library at Studio Two Three — Micro-press gems and creativity that doesn’t need algorithms to thrive. Tip: Pick something to read right now. Don’t just stack it on your nightstand. Okay, okay. I'm thinning my TBR pile. Slow Walks & Nature Breathing You don’t have to “go on a hike.” Just go. And leave the phone behind—or at least in your pocket in airplane mode. Buttermilk Trail (James River Park System)River views, quiet woods, and enough roots and rocks to keep you literally grounded. Fountain Lake at Byrd ParkSit. Watch ducks or just the water. Let somebody else fight their inbox. Agecroft Hall GardensTudor architecture and rolling river breezes  mean instant tranquility. Garden wandering encouraged. Cozy Creative Moments Reconnect with the joy of making something—anything—just for you. Hand-Building Ceramics at Hand/ThrownHands in clay > thumbs on glass screens. All day every day. Candle Making at Brown House Candle CompanyPour fragrance, not energy into your email. Bonus, you have something that smells great when you get back home. Sketching in the VMFA Sculpture GardenNo photos. No filters. Just pencil, paper, and real-time seeing. Field-Note Journaling at Libby Hill ParkThat skyline view has inspired writers for a century. Add yourself to the list and write about your plans, your gratitudes, or maybe even a short store. Stained Glass Workshop at Mojo GlassworksLet the colors and quiet work enchant you. Creativity is a muscle—and this season is prime time to stretch it and do something just a little different. For you. Why This Matters (Especially in Richmond) Richmond is absolutely a city that beautifully blends history and creativity, tradition and innovation, community and individuality. But during the holiday rush, even RVA can start to feel like it’s spinning too fast. Going analog isn’t about ditching tech forever.It’s about remembering we lived whole, beautiful lives before text alerts, group chats, and same-day delivery. It’s about: Grounding before givingRecharging so you can show up for othersFinding stillness in a city filled with motionSavoring small sensory joys—warm bread, crunchy leaves, candlelight, clay, paper, river air These little pauses make the season richer, and can help center you before you're being pulled in so many directions. Ready to Slow Down? Save this list. Try one thing this week. Then one next week.Invite a friend. Go solo. Sip, wander, read, make, and notice. Because the best gift you give yourself before the holidays is presence—and Richmond gives us the perfect backdrop to practice it. 💡 Want More Richmond Local Guides? If you're new here, hi! I'm Cindy. I live and breathe RVA—its neighborhoods, parks, bakeries, indie shops, and yes…its real estate market too. Follow along for neighborhood spotlights, hidden-gem itineraries, cozy day plans, and a local’s guide to living your very best Richmond life.

5 Fall Weekend Escapes from Richmond That Are Just Far Enough to FEEL Like An Escape What I'm loving right now? A little fall getaway! Before things get holiday crazy, it's the perfect time to get out of town, relax, recharge, and check out somewhere you may have never been. I slipped down to Boone last weekend- to visit my son, but it was also so nice to just breathe some clean mountain air, enjoy the changing colors, and rest a bit before things really get busy with events and holidays. It was so nice, I thought I'd share some of my favorite getaways that are just far enough to feel like a real getaway, but close enough to do on a weekend from the Richmond area.  1. Boone, North Carolina (~5.5-6 hours) Highlights & Things to Do Dine at The Gamekeeper - A rare for me 10/10 dining experience. Absolutely fantastic food and service. Wild game, bold flavors, and a cozy, elevated mountain lodge ambiance. Reservations recommended. More info HERE Grandfather Mountain & Mile-High Swinging Bridge - Hike the trails, see wildlife habitats, and cross the bridge (if you're not afraid of heights) for amazing Blue Ridge Parkway- Boone is home to lots of great scenic overlooks, small spur hikes (Rough Ridge, Linn Cove Viaduct), and this is the perfect time of year for those sunset views. Mystery Hill & Wilderness Run Alpine Coaster - Mystery Hill offers “gravity-defying” illusions, and Wilderness Run, in Banner Elk, is an outdoor alpine coaster, if you're an adrenaline junkie like me. Stroll downtown Boone / sample local brews & galleries- Explore great independent shops, local art, and breweries (Appalachian Mountain Brewery is a favorite, and Lost Province is an awesome spot for great food and great beer.) Boone is probably my current favorite, because my son (always my favorite) lives there, but it's also just generally fantastic, with really laid back vibes. 2. New River Gorge, West Virginia (~4.5–5.5 hours) Highlights & Things to Do Bridge Walk (under the New River Gorge Bridge) - A guided catwalk experience under the bridge that gives stunning angles and daring views. (Another good one for the adrenaline rush lovers!) Hiking to overlooks -Trails like Endless Wall, Long Point, and Grandview offer fun hikes, and gorgeous panoramic canyon vistas. River adventures- There are options for all levels on the river, whether you want a chill float or a whitewater adventure. Drive Fayette Station Road & rim backroads- Explore lesser-traveled rim roads that hug the gorge’s edge. (Just keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel!) Coal-town history & echoes of ghosts- Visit Thurmond (almost ghost-town status), old mining relics, and railway ruins for a real sense of the area's history. 3. Abingdon, Virginia (~3.5-4.5 hours) Highlights & Things to Do Virginia Creeper Trail -A 34.3-mile rail-to-trail route connecting Abingdon → Damascus → Whitetop. The section from Abingdon to Damascus is popular, mostly downhill, and scenic. This section was hit hard by Hurricane Helene, but has recently reopened, and these towns need your support. Catch a performance at Barter Theatre — A historic regional theatre with rotating shows, musicals, and local flavor. I saw a show here with my mom and brother a couple of years ago, and we all really enjoyed it! William King Museum of Art / Arts Depot — Regional art exhibits, sculpture gardens, and community arts. Historic downtown & walking tours — Brick streets, antique shops, café stops, and guided heritage walks. Ghost walks & storytelling — Local lore and wonderful stories abound; private or guided ghost tours with spooky tales of old homes and legends. 4. Wytheville, Virginia / Big Walker Lookout (~3–4 hours) Highlights & Things to Do Big Walker Lookout Tower & swinging bridge — Climb up, cross the bridge, soak in vistas, enjoy the store and occasional live music. Historic walking tour / architecture — Visit Trinkle Mansion, local churches, and charming historic districts. Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum — Explore the life of President Wilson’s second wife, born in Wytheville. Nature trails & nearby hikes — Look for trails around Crystal Springs, nearby parks, or dreamy, wooded escapes. Local festivals & sweet treats — The lookout site often features weekend music, artisans, and a classic country store with fudge and local goods. Check HERE for more info! 5. “Heart of Appalachia” Loop — Southwest Virginia (~4–6 hrs, flexible) Highlights & Things to Do Drive scenic backroads through the Heart of Appalachia region — Ridge-top roads, hidden turns, and no big crowds. Visit small towns: Norton, Pound, Damascus - Each town has its character: local cafés, craft shops, vintage finds. Hidden waterfalls & forest hikes - Seek out under-the-radar cascades off the beaten path. Music & artisan fairs along The Crooked Road — Indoor/outdoor performances, local mountain music, craft markets and good food. Farm stands & roadside dining gems - If you love country, Southern fare, let your hunger guide you. Small shops, produce stands, and family restaurants are a huge part of the adventure here, so make sure you stop along the way! (Robo's Drive In in Pound is a classic drive in like you don't see any more. Milkshakes, foot long chili dogs, and more. I've loved it since I was a little kid!)

What's Happening in RVA | August 2025 Armenian Food Festival OystoberFest Powhatan’s Festival of the Grape 2nd Street Festival Scotchtown’s Annual Fall Festival Richmond Folk Festival Richmond Oktoberfest Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention Richmond Restaurant Week Scott’s Addition Pumpkin Festival Richmond Zombie Walk Lewis Ginter HarvestFest Click HERE to download a PDF version.

As much as I love clean lines, open space, and living with less, I’ll admit it: I have moments where I yearn for maximalism. The rich colors, layered textures, and curated chaos of art-filled walls always call to me. And while I try not to buy things I don’t need (TikTok shop… you’ve tested me more than once), there’s one exception I never feel guilty about: art. Recently, while on my way to one of my Carytown staples, Tokyo Market, I stumbled upon a spot that felt like it was made for this very minimalist-with-maximalist-dreams heart of mine: Boon. Why Boon is Worth a Stop in Carytown Boon isn’t brand new, but it was new to me—and what a find. This curated gallery and shop features: Original local art – supporting Richmond area artists in the most meaningful way. Collector pieces – unique works with stories behind them. Vintage finds – art that carries history and character. Walking in felt like stepping into a visual treasure chest. Every wall, corner, and vignette offered something to spark curiosity and joy. I could have spent the whole afternoon browsing, but real life called and I had to go. My Personal Art Rule A few years back, I made a decision: if I bring new art into my home, it has to be original or it has to spark serious joy. No filler prints, no “just because” purchases. And honestly? That rule has been the best way to curate a home that feels meaningful and intentional. Boon fits that philosophy perfectly. I’m still thinking about a few pieces I saw there (specifically an amazing, huge painting of birds on a metallic background by Edward Allen Gross) —and I know I’ll be back soon. Why It Matters Shopping local isn’t just about keeping dollars in Richmond (though that’s huge). It’s also about creating a home filled with things that matter—pieces that tell stories, honor creativity, and reflect this vibrant city we call home. So if you’re looking to add a little soul to your space, put Boon in Carytown on your list. Even if you’re not in the market to buy, it’s worth a visit for the inspiration alone.

  Summer may be coming to an end, but it is not over yet — and there is still time to make the most of it here in Richmond! I have put together a fun End-of-Summer Bingo Card packed with my personal must-do activities before the season winds down. From picnicking at Maymont to spending an afternoon on the river, there is something for everyone. Print out the card, challenge your friends or family, and see how many squares you can cross off before fall rolls in. Whether you hit bingo or go for a full blackout, it’s the perfect way to wrap up summer in RVA. Click HERE to download your own copy!

What's Happening in RVA | August 2025 Book Fair with Fountain Books Virginia Capital Trail Pop-Up Rest Stop Chesterfield County Fair Ashland Half Marathon Richmond Comedy and Music Festival End of Summer Artisan Market ImmerseCon 2025

Welcome! If this is your first time here, I'm starting a new series for my newsletter and blog talking about some of the things you may not know about the Richmond area. Born and raised here myself, I have plenty of stories, but my dad had even more, and I always loved to hear them, and have him point things out while we were driving around town. Obviously, Richmond is filled with history- much of it complicated to say the least, but good or bad, it's always interesting, to me at least. Hopefully you'll find some of these things interesting too! Please let me know if you do (or if you don't) and if you have any questions or stories to share, please message me! So without further ado, here's the first installment!   The Richmond Union Passenger Railway, and Where It Went You may or may not know that Richmond, Virginia had the first (in the world) electric trolley system. While many places had tried to create a working system, no one was able to actually make it work. That is, until the powers that be in Richmond heard about Edison's colleague Frank Sprague and his experiments with electric transit in New York and invited him to Richmond to build one here. He and his team actually did the thing, and making it up as they went along, came up with a system of four wheeled cars attached to an overhead electric line and 12 miles of track, and the Richmond Union Passenger Railway was officially put into operation on February 2, 1888. Eventually, the system grew to 82 miles of track, and enabled much of the expansion of the city and its population. People were able to move further out, and they were still be able to come into the city without having to spend the day walking. This led to the development of Richmond's first suburbs, or "street car neighborhoods." These were Ginter Park, Bellevue, Barton Heights, Highland Park, Laburnum Park, Sherwood Park, the West End, and Forest Hill. The birth of our electric rail system also led to the development of 110 others across the country and the world. Pretty cool, huh? By 1949, though, cars were becoming more prevalent, and General Motors introduced buses to be used for public transit, and the cars fell by the wayside to make way for more gas powered vehicles. (Lots of thoughts, and even a court case, were based on the idea that GM and other auto makers conspired to get rid of the streetcars and make way for more of their own vehicles.) The writing was on the wall, and in December 15, 1949, trolley No 408 made its last run, followed by nine others, and hundreds of onlookers. Somewhat perplexingly, No. 408, along with 50 other cars, were not just decommissioned, but burned to nothing in the "Great Car Burning of 1949." Very few cars, or even parts of cars, exist. Our street car system may be long gone, but we have it to thank for some of our most beautiful streets, particularly in the North Side of Richmond. They were specifically designed to allow for carriages, pedestrians, and those trolleys, with wide roads, sidewalks and lined with beautiful trees.

Things to Do in August If you are looking for things to do with friends, family, or even solo as the summer wanes, check out some of the events happening around Richmond this month below. August 17th: Richmond Water Lantern Festival Head over to Dorey Park with the family and participate in the Water Lantern Festival. Each adult ticket comes with a lantern kit, candle, and more. Click the link above to get your tickets today. August 17th: Richmond R&B Festival From 3-10 pm, head over to the Kanawha Plaza on East Canal Street to enjoy the Richmond R&B Festival. There will be delicious food, drinks, and live performances all day. Click the link above for more information and tickets. August 24th: Ashland Half Marathon & 5k Good news for those marathoners, runners, or people who just want to get moving. Ashland is having a half marathon and 5k on August 24th. The half marathon starts at 6:30 am with the 5k following at 7:05 am. Click the link above to register or get more information. August 24th: 5th Annual Crabs, Beer, & Spirits by the James Head on down to Kanawha Plaza between 12 and 8 pm for all-you-can-eat crabs, live music, specialty vendors, and so much more! Tickets are on sale now, so don't wait too long or you might miss out. Click the link above for more information.