What's Happening in RVA

Summer has officially arrived in Richmond, and the city is turning up the heat with a packed calendar of events. Whether you're into live music, outdoor markets, food and drinks, or community gatherings, something is happening in every corner of RVA this June. Below you'll find our roundup of this month's can't-miss happenings — plus a running list of the recurring events that make Richmond such a vibrant place to live year-round. 📅 Friday, June 5th Summer Kickoff Festival | 5 pm to 10 pm |📍 Maymont Carriage House Lawn 📅 Saturday, June 6th Maymont: Cheers to 100 Years! | 12 pm to 4 pm | 📍 Maymont RVA Eid Fest 2026 | 12 pm to 7 pm | 📍 Richmond Raceway | FREE Tickets | an afternoon of food, shopping, entertainment, and community celebration The Ashland Strawberry Faire | 10 am to 5 pm | 📍 Randolph-Macon College | Grab a free trolley and visit 300+ vendors Viva Ashland Festival | 4 pm to 7 pm | 📍 Center of the Universe Brewing Co | A celebration of Latin food & flavor 📅 Sunday, June 7th 8th Annual Rocking for RACC | 12:30 pm to 7 pm | 📍 Main Line Brewery | Musical guests, food trucks and of course, dog friendly!! RVA RIMBY Festival | 12 pm to 3 pm | 📍 Hardywood Brewery | A free outdoor festival highlighting all of the incredible and unique outdoor activities right in the backyard of Richmond. 📅 June 12th - 14th Richmond SailFest | Times Vary Daily | 📍Dock Street Park & Intermediate Terminal | FREE Event | family-friendly, weekend-long festival will feature ship tours, live music and performances, historical re-enactors, exhibitions of history and art, and much more Dream Asia Festival | Times Vary Daily | 📍Meadow Event Park | Tickets Required | The Largest Asian Food and Culture Festival in the U.S VMFA Shop Tent Sale | 9 am to 3 pm | 📍VMFA | Deals on books, exhibition-themed items, jewelry, home décor, and seasonal finds—all at deeply discounted prices. 📅 Tuesday, June 16th MooseTracks 10k Scoop Challenge | 11 am to 3 pm |📍 Monroe Park | Every FREE scoop of ice cream you eat generates a $1 donation to charity! 📅 Thursday, June 18th Cozy Ol' Bluegrass Festival | 6 pm to 9 pm | 📍Riverside Outfitters | Sold Out - Join Wait List 📅 June 19th - 20th Revenge Roughstock Rodeo | Gates open at 6 pm | 📍Meadow Event Park | bull riders, barrel racers, and more 📅 Saturday, June 20th Henrico Juneteenth Celebration| 4 pm to 10 pm |📍Dorey Park | an immersive experience of music, art, and community Cookout Comedy Bash | Doors open at 7:30 pm |📍Benchtop Brewing | Tickets Required | A night packed with laughs, cold brews, and cookout vibes. 📅 Sunday, June 21st Summer Artisan Market | 1 pm to 5 pm |📍Main Line Brewery | local artisans, live music, food, drinks, and games 📅 Saturday, June 27th Henrico Multicultural Festival | 1 pm to 8 pm |📍Richmond Raceway | featuring live music, international food vendors and culinary experiences, cultural displays and vendors, children's activities, and more 📅 Ongoing Events Silent Reading Party | Day and location vary month to month Flying Squirrels Baseball Games | Days and times vary Shows at the Allianz Amphitheater  Wine and Watercolors with Shop Made in Virginia Shows at The Altria Theater Sunday Artisan Market at Brambly Park | Sundays from 1pm to 5pm Trivia Night RVA at Benchtop Brewing Co. | Wednesdays from 7pm t0 9pm BINGO Night at Benchtop Brewing Co. | Thursdays from 7pm to 8pm Comedy Shows at the Funny Bone Music and Events at Hardywood Brewery | 📍Richmond | 📍West Creek South of the James Farmers Market | Sundays from 10am to 1pm | 📍4021 Forest Hill Ave RVA Big Market | May-Oct: Saturdays from 8am to 12pm | 📍Bryan Park

May in Richmond is basically the city showing off. After months of cold and grey, the river comes alive, the parks fill up, and suddenly there's something worth getting off the couch for every single weekend. Whether you're into hot air balloons drifting over the Museum District, local artists lining the streets of the Fan, or just wandering through Byrd Park with a funnel cake in hand, this month has you covered. From the return of Riverrock on the James to the grand reopening of Maymont's Wildlife Trail, May 2026 is stacked — and that's before you factor in Greek food, comic cons, ballet, beer festivals, and a musical that asks what would've happened if Juliet just... didn't. Here's everything worth circling on your calendar this month. 📅 May 2nd - 3rd 55th Annual Arts in the Park | 11am to 6pm/5pm |📍 The Carillon in Byrd Park 📅 Saturday, May 2nd Virginia Wildlife Trail Grand Reopening | 10am to 4pm | 📍 Maymont "After a two-year enhancement project, explore the new and remodeled habitats, with more accessible pathways, new interpretive signs, and more ways to view our wildlife residents." - maymont.org Chesterfield Bee Festival | 10am to 3pm | 📍 Chesterfield County Fairgrounds | Enjoy food vendors, a goat petting zoo, live music, and hands-on activities for children. 📅 Sunday, May 3rd Mother's Day Artisan Market | 1pm to 5pm | 📍 Main Line Brewery | Craft Beer, local artisans, outdoor games, dog-friendly vibes, family-friendly fun 📅 May 8th - 9th Richmond Hot Air Balloon Festival | Gates open at 5pm |📍 Museum District | Tickets required | Hot Air Balloon rides, balloon glow + laser show, etc. 📅 Saturday, May 9th VA ComiCon | 11am to 4pm |📍 Richmond Raceway | Tickets required 📅 Sunday, May 10th Mother's Day House and Garden Tour | 1pm to 6pm |📍 Museum District | Tickets required | Stroll through the neighborhood and tour 8 Museum District homes History Hounds Explore Ginter Park | 10am to 11:30am |📍 St. Paul's Catholic Church | $20 for adults / $10 for members | a special dog-friendly tour of Ginter Park 📅 May 12th - 17th & Juliet | Showtimes vary |📍Altria Theater Created by the Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on the greatest love story ever told. & Juliet asks: what would happen next if Juliet didn’t end it all over Romeo? Get whisked away on a fabulous journey as she ditches her famous ending for a fresh beginning and a second chance at life and love—her way. 📅 May 14th - 24th Richmond Ballet Presents 'Moving Art Four: Legends' | Days and times vary |📍VMFA 📅 May 14th - 15th Fan Arts Stroll | 4pm to 8pm |📍2000-2500 Hanover Ave & 2200-2500 Grove Ave | Stroll through the historic Fan district and enjoy local art, live music, and tasty treats. 📅 May 15th - 17th Dominion Energy Riverrock | Event times vary |📍James River | The nation’s largest outdoor sports and music festival on Richmond's riverfront, featuring trail running, kayaking, biking, and yoga. 📅 Saturday, May 16th 21st Annual ASK 5k & Fun Run | 8am to 12pm | 📍Carmax Park | presented by the Childhood Cancer Foundation Goochland Day Parade and Festival | 10am to 3pm | 📍Goochland Sports Complex 📅 Sunday, May 17th Spring Artisan Market | 1pm to 5pm | 📍Zorch Pizza Parlor | enjoy food, drinks, and local vendors/artisans 📅 Thursday, May 21st Murals of Jackson Ward Walking Tour | 6pm to 7:30pm | 📍325 N 2nd St | $20 for adults / $10 for members 📅 Saturday, May 23rd Indian and Sri Lankan Food Festival | 11am to 3pm | 📍10509 Greenwood Rd 📅 May 23rd - 24th Shop Small Weekend | 12pm to 5pm | 📍Strangeways Brewing - Scotts Addition 📅 May 28th - 31st Richmond Greek Festival | Times Vary | 📍30 Malvern Ave 📅 May 30th Spring Plant Sale + Pollinator Festival | 9am to 1pm | 📍1440 N. Laburnum Ave Appomattox River Wine Festival | 12pm to 5pm | 📍Appomattox Boat Harbor Wings and Wheels Fly In and Car Show | 10am to 5pm | 📍Dinwiddie County Airport | Enjoy displays of vintage and modern aircraft, classic cars, and custom motorcycles, plus food and other vendors ¿Qué Pasa? Festival | 12pm to 8pm | 📍Carmax Park 📅 Ongoing Events Silent Reading Party | Day and location vary month to month Flying Squirrels Baseball Games | Days and times vary Shows at the Allianz Amphitheater  Wine and Watercolors with Shop Made in Virginia Shows at The Altria Theater Sunday Artisan Market at Brambly Park | Sundays from 1pm to 5pm Trivia Night RVA at Benchtop Brewing Co. | Wednesdays from 7pm t0 9pm BINGO Night at Benchtop Brewing Co. | Thursdays from 7pm to 8pm Comedy Shows at the Funny Bone Music and Events at Hardywood Brewery | 📍Richmond | 📍West Creek South of the James Farmers Market | Sundays from 10am to 1pm | 📍4021 Forest Hill Ave RVA Big Market | May-Oct: Saturdays from 8am to 12pm | 📍Bryan Park  

If my best friend called me tomorrow and said she was thinking about moving to the Richmond area, I know exactly what I’d tell her. Not as a real estate agent. Not as someone trying to sell her anything. Just the honest, real-life perspective from someone who has lived here for a long time—and genuinely loves it more every year. If you’re considering relocating to Richmond, here’s what you should know. 🎥 Watch the Full Video What Richmond Is Really Like A lot of people who’ve never been to Richmond picture it as a mid-sized, maybe slightly forgettable city. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Richmond is full of character, history, and distinct neighborhoods—each with its own personality. It has the energy of a college town thanks to VCU, but with the depth and amenities of a much larger city. From world-class museums to a constantly evolving food scene, there’s always something happening here. And then there’s the James River—arguably the crown jewel of the city. Choosing the Right Neighborhood One of the best things about Richmond is the variety. Where you should live really depends on your lifestyle. If You Want Walkability & City Energy Neighborhoods like: The Fan Museum District Carytown Forest Hill / Westover Hills These areas offer sidewalks, local restaurants, coffee shops, parks, and a true neighborhood feel where you can actually walk to places—not just walk for the sake of it. If You Want More Space & Community Amenities Looking in the surrounding counties might be a better fit. You’ll typically find: Larger lots Planned communities Amenities like pools, playgrounds, and tennis courts This can be especially appealing if you’re looking to plug into a community quickly. If You’re Looking for More Affordable, Up-and-Coming Areas A few areas to keep an eye on: Church Hill Brookland Park These neighborhoods offer a mix of character, walkability, and value—and they continue to grow in popularity. Let’s Talk About the Food Scene 🍽️ Richmond has been quietly punching above its weight for years when it comes to food. Whether you’re into: Food trucks Casual neighborhood spots Trendy new restaurants Or high-end dining You’ll find something here—and probably more than you expected. The James River Lifestyle 🌊 This is one of the most unique things about Richmond. The James River runs right through the city—and it’s not just for looking at. You can: Kayak or paddleboard (yes, even downtown) Walk or bike along scenic trails Explore parks and river access points Catch concerts at the riverfront amphitheater Plus, the Virginia Capital Trail offers over 50 miles of paved trail stretching from Richmond to Williamsburg. Arts, Culture & Things to Do 🎨 Richmond has a strong creative energy. From: First Fridays art walks Galleries and museums Festivals and local events There’s always something to explore—and it’s a big part of what gives the city its personality. The Honest Downsides No place is perfect, and Richmond is no exception. A couple things to keep in mind: Highway traffic (especially on I-64 during beach season) Summer humidity (it can get intense) That said, we do get four true seasons—and the winters are relatively mild. Final Thoughts: Should You Move to Richmond? If you’re thinking about relocating, the best thing you can do is come experience it for yourself. Drive through neighborhoods. Try the restaurants. Walk along the river. Check out a local event. Richmond has a vibe that’s hard to fully explain—but easy to feel once you’re here. And chances are, there’s a version of Richmond that fits exactly what you’re looking for. Thinking About Making a Move? If you have questions about neighborhoods, timing, or what to expect when moving to Richmond, I’m always happy to help. Reach out anytime—whether you’re just starting to explore or ready to make a move.

April is when Richmond really starts to come alive again. Patios fill up, festivals return, and there’s something happening just about every day—whether you’re looking for live music, family-friendly events, or a reason to get outside. If you’re planning your month (or just your weekends), here’s a look at what’s happening around Richmond this April. 📅 Saturday, April 4th Dominion Energy Family Easter | 9am to 12pm |📍 Maymont Edgar's Enchanted Garden | 10am to 12pm |📍 The Poe Museum | Poetry, Crafts, Games, and Storytime The Hunt | 2:30pm to 12pm |📍 The Space at Norches | Indoor Egg Hunt and Activities Hardywood Bunny Hop | 12 pm to 4 pm |📍Hardywood - West Creek 📅 Tuesday, April 7th Opening Night at Carmax Park | First Pitch at 7:05 pm | 📍 Carmax Park 📅 Wednesday, April 8th An Evening with John Legend | 7:30 pm | 📍 Altria Theater 📅 April 10th & 11th Hermitage Richmond Pop-Up Artisan Market | 10am to 4pm |📍 1600 Westwood Ave, Richmond, VA 23227 Richmond African American Book Festival | 11am to 4pm |📍 Diversity Richmond 📅 April 10th - 12th The Bizarre Bazaar 34th Spring Collection |📍Richmond Raceway Complex Friday, April 10th - 10am to 7pm Saturday, April 11th - 10am to 6pm Sunday, April 12th - 10am to 5pm 📅 Saturday, April 11th A Swingin' Centennial Celebration | 6 pm to 9 pm | 📍Agecroft Hall & Gardens Scotchtown's 5th Annual Fiber Festival | 10 am to 4 pm | 📍Patrick Henry's Scotchtown 📅 Sunday, April 12th Fetch Fest | 1 pm to 4 pm | 📍Hardywood Park - West Creek See Yourself Here: VMFA Community Celebration | 1 pm to 4 pm | 📍Virginia Museum of Fine Arts 📅 Thursday, April 16th Alabama Shakes | 8:30 pm | 📍The Allianz Amphitheater 📅 Friday, April 17th Disco, Always: A Harry Styles Dance Night | 8:30 pm | 📍The Canal Club 📅 April 18th & 19th 2026 Richmond Ren Faire | 10 am to 6 pm | 📍Dorey Park 📅 Saturday, April 18th Spring Artisan Market | 12 pm to 5 pm | 📍Bingo Beer Co Ukrop's Monument 10k | 8 am to 1 pm | 📍Broad St + Harrison St Richmond Book Festival | 11 am to 3 pm | 📍Rueger Park/Lois Harrison-Jones Elementary 📅 Sunday, April 19th Best Buddies Richmond Friendship Walk | 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm | 📍Richmond Kickers 2026 Spring Artisan Market | 12 pm to 5 pm | 📍Hardywood - Richmond 📅 April 21st - 26th The Wiz | Showtimes Vary |📍Altria Theater 📅 Thursday, April 23rd 2026 Dominion Energy Richmond History Makers | 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm |📍The Valentine Museum 📅 Saturday, April 25th Ashland Train Day | 10 am - 4 pm |📍Ashland Farmer's Market Herbs Galore | 8 am - 3 pm |📍Maymont

March in Richmond means the first real hints of spring — longer days, outdoor events returning, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, races, markets, and plenty of reasons to get out and explore. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, live music, seasonal festivals, or community gatherings, something is happening across RVA all month long. Below is your guide to the top events and activities happening in and around Richmond, VA, in March 2026. 📅 Sunday, March 1 Virginia Bridal & Wedding Expo | 1pm to 5pm |📍 Greater Richmond Convention Center 📅 March 6–8 48th Annual Richmond Home + Garden Show |📍 Richmond Raceway Complex 10 am - 7 pm (Friday and Saturday) and 10 am - 5 pm (Sunday) 📅 March 7–8 Richmond Coffee Festival 2026 | 8:45 am - 3 pm / 4 pm | 📍Richmond Convention Center 📅 Saturday, March 7 Virginia Credit Union River City Half & 5K | Starts at 8 am Nutzy’s Block Party | 10 am to 1 pm | 📍 CarMax Park Youth Entrepreneurs Summit | 12 pm to 4 pm | 📍Boys and Girls Club Teen & Community Center 📅 Sunday, March 8 Richmond Children’s Business Fair | 1 pm to 4 pm | 📍Dewey Gottwald Center Richmond Black Restaurant Experience (March 8–15) | 📍Various locations 📅 Monday, March 9 WIBRVA Serendipity Meetup | 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm | 📍Room3CNetworking event for local professionals and women in business. 📅 Friday, March 13 Dancing with the Stars 2026 | Starts at 7:30 pm | 📍Altria Theater 📅 March 13–15 Craftsmen's Spring Classic Art & Craft Festival | 10 am - 6 pm / 4 pm |📍Richmond Raceway Complex 📅 Saturday, March 14 Richmond St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Bar Crawl | 4 pm - 10 pm Shamrock & Roll Parking Lot Party | 11:30 am - 9 pm | 📍River City Roll Virginia Derby 2026 | Gates open 10 am - First Race 12 pm | 📍Colonial Downs Racetrack 📅 Sunday, March 15 St. Patty's Day Market | 1 pm - 5 pm | 📍Main Line Brewery 📅 March 19-21 Kam Patterson | Times vary by day | 📍The Funny Bone 📅 Saturday, March 21 Maymont Mansion Open House & Garden Party | 10am - 4pm | 📍Maymont 24th Annual Dog Jog 5K & Block Party | 10am - 5pm Bloom for a Cause Spring Market | 12pm - 5pm | 📍Agecroft Hall 📅 March 21–22 Church Hill Irish Festival | 10 am - 6 pm | 📍25th and Broad 📅 March 24 - 29 Broadway in Richmond: The Outsiders | Showtimes vary by day | 📍Altria Theater 📅 Sunday, March 29 Eras: Taylor Swift Tribute Drag Brunch | 2 pm | 📍The Funny Bones

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

  Richmond’s Zoning Code Refresh: What It Means for Your Neighborhood, Home Value, and Future Plans Over the next several years, many Richmond neighborhoods could change in ways that surprise longtime residents and homeowners. Streets that have traditionally been made up of single-family homes may soon be allowed to include additional housing types, more density, and different development options than they do today. These changes are part of Richmond’s zoning code refresh, a citywide update aimed at addressing housing demand, affordability, and evolving urban living preferences. While the phrase “code refresh” can sound vague or technical, the potential impact is very real—especially if you own property, are planning to buy, or are considering selling or investing in Richmond. Let’s break down what this zoning update is, why it’s happening, and what it could mean for you. What Is the Richmond Zoning Code Refresh? In plain English, the zoning code refresh is the city’s effort to update long-standing rules that govern how land can be used and what types of buildings can be constructed. Many of Richmond’s zoning regulations were created decades ago, during a time when housing needs, transportation patterns, and population growth looked very different. The refresh is designed to: Allow for more housing options Increase density in certain areas Support long-term housing affordability Encourage smarter, more efficient land use Rather than focusing on large apartment complexes alone, the city is exploring changes that would allow more “missing middle” housing—the types of homes that fall between single-family houses and large multifamily developments. Why Is Richmond Making These Changes Now? Richmond’s zoning update is part of a much larger conversation happening across cities nationwide. Housing demand has increased, affordability has become a major concern, and many communities are realizing that older zoning rules limit their ability to adapt. Several factors are driving the code refresh: Housing affordability pressures at both local and national levels Growing demand for smaller, more flexible housing options Increased interest in walkable, urban neighborhoods Changing household needs, including multigenerational living In short, the city is trying to balance growth with livability—while acknowledging that doing nothing isn’t a realistic option. What Types of Changes Could We See? While the exact details, timelines, and neighborhood-specific impacts are still being finalized, some common themes have emerged. More Duplexes, Triplexes, and Small Multifamily Homes Areas that have traditionally been zoned for single-family homes may eventually allow duplexes, triplexes, or small multifamily buildings. This doesn’t mean every street will suddenly change, but it does mean more flexibility in how land can be used. Expanded Use of ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) Accessory dwelling units—often called in-law suites, carriage houses, or garage apartments—are becoming more common nationwide. Richmond’s zoning refresh may allow more homeowners to add ADUs where they were previously prohibited. These can be used for: Multigenerational living Rental income Guest or home office space Reduced Parking Requirements One of the lesser-known but impactful changes being discussed involves parking. Historically, zoning codes required a specific number of parking spaces for new developments. Reducing or eliminating some of these requirements can: Free up land for housing Lower construction costs Encourage walkability and alternative transportation The Push and Pull: Density vs. Neighborhood Character One of the biggest tensions surrounding the zoning code refresh is the balance between increasing housing and preserving neighborhood character. On one hand, many residents support: More housing availability More affordability Increased walkability and local amenities On the other hand, there are real concerns about: Traffic and congestion Parking availability Loss of architectural charm or historic feel These concerns are valid, and the city is navigating a complex push-and-pull between growth and preservation. It’s unlikely that every neighborhood will be affected in the same way, but change in some form is almost certainly coming. What Buyers Should Consider If you’re thinking about buying a home in Richmond, zoning changes add an extra layer of research to the process. Beyond evaluating a neighborhood as it exists today, buyers should also consider: How zoning flexibility could impact the area in 5–10 years Whether increased density could affect traffic or parking Potential changes to nearby properties or vacant lots Understanding future possibilities can help buyers make more informed decisions and avoid surprises down the road. What This Means for Sellers For homeowners considering selling, the zoning code refresh could present opportunities. Increased zoning flexibility may: Expand the pool of potential buyers Attract investors or builders Increase a property’s development potential Sellers who understand their property’s current and future zoning may be able to position their home more strategically—especially if redevelopment or expansion becomes more viable. Opportunities for Investors Real estate investors are watching Richmond’s zoning changes closely. More flexible zoning can open the door to: Duplex or triplex conversions Small multifamily development ADU additions for rental income For investors, understanding what may be allowed in the future is just as important as what’s allowed today. What Homeowners Should Do Now Even if you’re not planning to buy or sell anytime soon, staying informed is critical. Homeowners should: Follow city planning updates Attend community meetings when possible Learn how zoning changes could affect their block Understand both risks and opportunities Change doesn’t happen overnight, but early awareness allows for better long-term planning. How I Can Help Zoning changes can feel overwhelming, especially when the details are still evolving. If you’re curious or concerned about how Richmond’s zoning code refresh could affect your neighborhood, property value, or future plans, I’m happy to help. I can share what information is currently available, help interpret how it may apply to your situation, and point you toward additional city resources when needed. Reach out anytime to start the conversation. If you’d like next: A shorter “owner-friendly” version of this post A seller-focused zoning blog A developer/investor breakdown Or an email newsletter version Just let me know 👌  

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.

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

Click each event below for more information. For a full calendar of events, click HERE. Friday Cheers (1st of the Season!) Richmond Flower Truck Floral Arrangement Workshop Lewis Ginter Spring Plant Sale 54th Annual Art in the Park Mother's Day Concert at Agecroft Hall 5k Family Fun Day at Crump Park Big Tent: Memorial Day Event Family Night Hike