I don’t know about you all, but I’m ready for spring after that taste of warm weather we’ve had! One of my favorite things about spring in Richmond is the kickoff of festival season. The temperatures climb up out of the 40’s, the trees come back to life, the flowers begin to bloom, and everyone spends more time outside. It’s like the entire city wakes up from a sleepy winter haze and sparks a new energy. I can’t think of any better way to celebrate that than to party!
Mark your calendars, here are some festivals you can look forward to in the next couple of weeks…
Virginia Wine Expo
What? Calling all foodie, wine, and spirit enthusiasts! Taking place in the beautiful and historic Main Street Station, this expo offers hundreds of Virginia wines, spirits, and ciders. Featuring wine from Chile as the 2019 International Guest Region, and Central Coast, Santa Cruz Mountains and Southern California, the 2019 National Guest Region, this outstanding event will allow you to sample and buy hundreds of bottles, while you explore and enjoy our flourishing city of Richmond.
When? February 26th – March 3rd | Hours vary
Where? Main Street Station | 1500 E Main Street, Richmond, VA 23219
Check it out! http://www.virginiawineexpo.com/
James River Film Festival
What? The James River Film Society is an all-volunteer run organization dedicated to the art of film and the film of art. The James River Film Festival will screen its signature blend of eclectic film programming at the VMFA, Byrd Theatre, VCU’s Grace Street Theatre, Visual Arts Center, Gallery 5, and Richmond’s Main Public Library. Come out and celebrate the 26th year of this fantastic festival. You bring the popcorn, I’ll get the candy!
When? March 13th – 17th | Show times vary
Where? Show venues vary
Check it out! http://www.jamesriverfilm.org/
Shamrock the Block
What? The grand kickoff to St. Patty’s Day in RVA! You won’t want to miss this afternoon of live music, food, drinks, crafts, and partying on the block with over 40,000 of your Richmond neighbors. You don’t have to be Irish to throw on something green and come on down to the best block party in town! It’s free!
When? March 16 | 12pm – 6pm
Where? The Boulevard (between Leigh Street & Broad Street) Richmond, VA
Check it out! https://www.shamrocktheblock.com/
The Irish Festival
What? Let your inner Irish out! Enjoy themed crafts, family fun, food, refreshments, and great entertainment. Your small $5.00 donation at the gate and all proceeds of this event benefit the St. Baldrick’s Society and their fight against childhood cancer, the Church Hill Association, Child Saver’s Clinic of Richmond, the St. Peter’s Meals Program, the historic preservation of St. Patrick’s Church, and many other neighborhood causes.
When? March 23rd & 24th | 10am – 7pm
Where? 25th & E Broad Street in Church Hill, Richmond, VA
Check it out! http://www.churchhillirishfestival.com/
RVA French Food Festival
What? Over the past 10 years, the French Food Festival has grown tremendously, highlighting French food, culture, music, and wine and featuring local vendors, musicians, and entertainment. Pop by and try Chef Paul’s Boeuf Bourguignon and Chef Sean’s Gumbo Ya Ya! All proceeds of this event support the mission of the Little Sisters of the Poor and their elderly residents. Check out their menu and bring your appetite!
When? April 26th & 27th | 4pm – 8pm & 11am – 8pm
Where? 1503 Michaels Road, Henrico, VA 23229
Check it out! https://rvafrenchfoodfestival.com/
Dominion Energy Riverrock
What? There’s plenty to do, there’s plenty to see, so get out and experience RVA right! This three day celebration of sports, music, and river life unites the community through a unique mix of adrenaline-pumping athletic disciplines and friendly competitions. Whether you kayak, slackline, hike, bike, or trail run, there are plenty of activities for you. Or, if you prefer art, music, food, and entertainment, there’s no place better to do what you love than on the banks of the James River.
When? May 17th – 19th | Activities take place all day
Where? Brown’s Island & Historic Tredegar Iron Woks
Check it out! https://www.riverrockrva.com/
Come out and make sure to say hello if you see us at these events!
