Richmond Happenings Guide: Shows, Festivals, and Free Events

Richmond Happenings Guide: Shows, Festivals, and Free Events

Hey RVA—Noah Brown here with your local events roundup. Whether you’re looking for something tonight or planning ahead, here’s a curated list of things happening in Richmond and nearby.

What’s Happening Today

Arts, Music & Culture

  • “Barbara Sullivan: A Retrospective” opens tonight at Quirk Gallery—a chance to see a career-spanning show from one of Richmond’s prominent painters. Doors typically open in the evening.
  • Dinner & Cabaret at Poe Museum — the “Cabaret UnHappy Hour” is back in the Enchanted Garden, the kind of eclectic and entertaining performance style for which Poe himself would approve.
  • Fiesta Latina at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden. Think Latin music, dance, and food—an outdoor fête among the blooms.

Sports & Outdoor

  • VCU Women’s Soccer hosts St. Bonaventure at VCU Athletic Village—always a spirited atmosphere and a fun way to support local college sports.
  • “Currents of History: Tim Roberts” lecture at the James River Association sheds light on Richmond’s past, from waterways to land use stories that shape today’s city.

Upcoming Events Worth Marking

  • Richmond VegFest — Saturday, September 26 in Byrd Park. Over 100 vendors, live music, stage performances, and lots of plant-based food options.
  • Woofstock — also September 26 in Glen Allen. If you’ve got pets (or just love them), it’s a day of dog-friendly fun, vendors, and community energy.
  • Brad Paisley Live at 350 Tredegar Street on September 26. Country music favorite in an iconic setting by the river.

Free & Budget-Friendly Picks

No need to spend big—Richmond has no shortage of free events:

  • Richmond Folk Festival returns in early October with live music, artisans, food—and that’s all free. A three-day celebration downtown that draws folks from all over.
  • Gallery openings and First Fridays are scattered throughout the city each month. Great low-cost ways to take in visual art and meet local creatives.
  • Public lectures like Currents of History are frequently free or low-cost through nonprofit organizations focused on history, environment, and culture.

Quick Tips Before You Go

  • Check exact times and ticket availability—festivals and concerts often require registration or pre-purchase.
  • Weather can shift fast, so dress in layers and bring rain gear if you’ll be outside late.
  • Public transit or ride-shares can help avoid parking headaches, especially at larger festivals or shows.

Want alerts for things like free performances, kids’ events, or workshops? I can pull those together too—just say the word.