Filtering by: Thanksgiving
Dominion Energy Gardenfest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Nov
17
to Jan 4

Dominion Energy Gardenfest of Lights at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

  • Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Dominion Energy
GardenFest of Lights 2025-2026

November 17 - January 4

GardenFest is rain or shine. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable unless you purchase the optional Ticket Insurance. You can purchase the optional Ticket Insurance at checkout. Please note: Insurance allows for tickets to be moved ONCE. All ticket sales are final. Ticket transfer insurance is available at time of purchase that allows you to transfer your ticket to an alternate date and/or time. Ticket Insurance is non-transferrable and all tickets, with or without insurance, are non-refundable. The cost of purchased tickets that are unused, will be donated to the general operating fund of the Garden.

Please have your ticket QR code, confirmation email or order number at check-in. If you created an account when you purchased tickets through my.lewisginter.org, you can also access your tickets by logging into your account.

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Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys
Nov
22
to Mar 1

Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys

Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys is coming to the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. The exhibition from the collection of musical and cultural icons Swizz Beatz (Kassem Dean) and Alicia Keys is expansive and features over 130 works of art by 40 Black artists from Africa, Europe, the United States, and the Caribbean.

Among the artists featured are Derrick Adams, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kwame Brathwaite, Nick Cave, Barkley Hendricks, Arthur Jafa, Titus Kaphar, Esther Mahlangu, Meleko Mokgosi, Odili Donald Odita, Toyin Ojih Odutola, Gordon Parks, Ebony G. Patterson, Deborah Roberts, Jamel Shabazz, Amy Sherald, Mickalene Thomas, and Kehinde Wiley.

These celebrated "giants" are expanding the art canon of greats in a big, bold way. They include legendary photographers, iconic contemporary artists, as well as emerging artists. And among the art on view are monumental works that tower in scale and thought. Giants is also a nod to the collectors' passion for lifting up the human spirit:

"We need to be our most giant selves: to think our most giant thoughts, express ourselves in the biggest way possible, and give ourselves permission to be giants."
—Alicia Keys

As artists who strive to support other artists and collect from the heart, Keys and Beatz are guided by an outward intention that regards their family of acquired works as “by the artist, for the artist, with the people.”

Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys is organized by Kimberli Gant, Curator, Modern and Contemporary Art, and Indira A. Abiskaroon, Curatorial Assistant, Modern and Contemporary Art, Brooklyn Museum. The coordinating curator at VMFA is Valerie Cassel Oliver, the Sydney and Frances Lewis Family Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art.

The exhibition is organized by the Brooklyn Museum.

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Friendsgiving at Penny's Wine Shop
Nov
25
5:00 PM17:00

Friendsgiving at Penny's Wine Shop

Tuesday, November 24th, we’re doing it again — Friendsgiving at Penny’s Wine Shop!

Expect family-style eats, magnums of wine flowing freely, and that unmistakable Penny’s energy we all love. It’s one of our favorite nights of the year — good food, great bottles, and even better company.

Come hungry, come thirsty, and come ready for a grand time!

2 Seatings: 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM

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TURKEY TOSS at River City Roll
Nov
25
6:00 PM18:00

TURKEY TOSS at River City Roll

Get ready to fling your way into Thanksgiving! Join us from 6–8pm for our annual Turkey Toss, where you’ll bowl with frozen turkeys to support Feed More of Richmond. It’s ridiculous, it’s festive, and it’s all for a great cause.

After you’ve tossed your turkeys, hang with us for live sets from Ford’s Cellar and Valley Depalma all evening long.

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Special Focus Tour: Bellycheer! Feasting in England 1580-1640
Nov
25
6:00 PM18:00

Special Focus Tour: Bellycheer! Feasting in England 1580-1640

Our annual Bellycheer! tour is back.

Bellycheer! Feasting in England 1580-1640 is a guided tour celebrating food and dining during the holiday season.

Listen to a lively telling of uses of everyday foods, food preparation, historic recipes, rare spices, table etiquette, and customs on England’s annual feast days. Is food medicine? In a 17th century country house, food and medicine were often the same thing. Join tour guide Tracy Weldon to learn about these topics and more on a guided tour focusing on the dining parlor and Tudor Kitchen.

Take home historic recipes to try on your own.

$12.00 per person. 20% discount for museum members.

This tour is also offered on Thursday, December 11th at 6:00pm and on Saturday, December 20th at 10:00am. 

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THE WARM UP with Ford's Cellar & Valley Depalma
Nov
25
to Nov 26

THE WARM UP with Ford's Cellar & Valley Depalma

Kick off your holiday weekend with The Warm Up—a pre-Thanksgiving night of live music at River City Roll featuring Ford’s Cellar and Valley Depalma. Two bands, two vibes, one unforgettable start to the holiday stretch.

Ford’s Cellar - 7 PM

Ford’s Cellar brings their signature blend of alternative country, bluegrass, folk, and southern rock to the stage for a high-energy set that always hits home. Their 6-piece lineup—complete with mandolin, banjo, lap steel, guitar, bass, ukulele, harp, and drums—creates a dynamic sound that fills the room.

Valley Depalma - 9:30 PM

With a style rooted in raw emotion and genre-blending creativity, Valley Depalma brings a modern edge to the night. Their set is a fresh, expressive addition to The Warm Up’s musical mix.

Enjoy a bite to eat from our full-service kitchen until 10 pm, followed by our late-night menu available until 12:30 am.

INDOOR/OUTDOOR SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVE AFTER 8:00PM. NO COVER. AGES 21+

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THANKSGIVING EVE BASH with Cari Lacey & Dan Nicholls Band
Nov
26
8:30 PM20:30

THANKSGIVING EVE BASH with Cari Lacey & Dan Nicholls Band

Set the tone for Thanksgiving Eve with a night of live country music at River City Roll. Cari Lacey and the Dan Nicholls Band bring heartfelt originals, country favorites, and high-energy hits to keep the night rolling right into the holiday.

Cari Lacey - 8:30 PM

California-born and Virginia-rooted, Cari Lacey blends bluegrass, country, blues, and rock into a soulful sound all her own. A natural storyteller with an extensive catalog of originals, she brings authentic, West-meets-East Coast charm to every performance.

Dan Nicholls - 9:30 PM

The Dan Nicholls Band brings a lively mix of familiar country favorites— the kind of feel-good hits that get you singing along without even thinking about it.

Enjoy a bite to eat from our full-service kitchen until 10pm, followed by our late-night menu available until 12:30am.

INDOOR/OUTDOOR SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVE AFTER 8:00PM. NO COVER. AGES 21+

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The Big Turkey Trot
Nov
27
8:30 AM08:30

The Big Turkey Trot

The Big Turkey Trot

RICHMOND'S NEWEST 5K THANKSGIVING TRADITION!

Join Little Hands Virginia on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025, for the very first Big Turkey Trot.

Bring the whole family for a morning full of charity, festive fitness and community spirit. Whether you're running, walking, bobbling, or cheering from the sidelines, there’s something for everyone. 

 

Event Schedule

  • 8:30 AM – 5K Race Starts
    Lace up your sneakers and hit the course! Run, walk or stroller to the 3.1 miles to the finish line.

       Registration: $35, price increases Nov. 1st

  • 9:45 AM – Baby Bobble
    A wobbly-cute crawling race for our tiniest trotters. Guaranteed giggles and photo ops!

       Registration: $20, price increases Nov. 1st

  • 10:00 AM – One-Mile Gobble Wobble
    Perfect for turkeys of all ages. Run or walk this shorter route!

       Registration: $25, price increases Nov. 1st

Register now, start a team, or donate to make a BIG difference in the lives of Central Virginia's littlest.  If you're interested in volunteering, please click here

All proceeds benefit Little Hands Virginia, helping provide essentials for babies and young children in need across our community.

Together we'll make the Big Turkey Trot the start of a new Richmond Thanksgiving tradition!

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Model Railroad Show
Nov
28
to Nov 30

Model Railroad Show

  • Science Museum of Virginia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This Event Has All the Bells and Whistles!

Everyone’s favorite Thanksgiving weekend tradition is rolling back into town. And where better to host a model train show than in a former train station?

The 48th Annual Model Railroad Show offers science enthusiasts and train lovers of all ages the opportunity to enjoy the discovery process while making memories. Featuring an entire room full of elaborate train displays created by private hobbyists from across Virginia, the Model Railroad Show showcases scaled locomotives riding through intricate landscapes and miniature cities.

This year, the blacksmith will be onsite longer, giving guests more time to experience the magic in action. We’re also introducing a new train science demo and bringing back the family-favorite, collaborative train scene build. And don’t forget The Dome! While you’re here, you can see a giant screen film or astronomy show, including our two new features, Arctic: Our Frozen Planet and Encounters in the Milky Way.

We guarantee this special event has all the bells and whistles!

Registration Information

The Model Railroad Show takes place from November 28–30. To help keep the tracks clear, we’re offering timed tickets for entry to the Model Railroad Show. All guests, including members, are encouraged to reserve tickets online before the event to secure their top-choice of Model Railroad Show entry time.

The room with the model trains opens at 8:30 a.m. for members and 9:30 a.m. for the general public. The last ticket will be sold at 4:15 p.m. Science Museum exhibits are open from 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m.

All Model Railroad Show activities are included with admission.

Please Note

  • Tickets are non-refundable, and may not be transferred and resold.

  • We often take photos and videos of guests to use for promotional and fundraising purposes. Please let Guest Services know on arrival if you wish to be excluded.

  • We strive to create inclusive and accessible experiences for all guests. For accommodation information, contact Guest Services at info@smv.org or by calling 804.864.1400.

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After 5 Fridays at VMFA
Nov
28
6:00 PM18:00

After 5 Fridays at VMFA

Kick off every weekend by joining us for After 5 Fridays. Explore the museum during evening hours. Enjoy free admission to the permanent collection, Highlights Tours, drink specials in Best Café, and exciting events of live music, dancing and more.

After 5 Fridays offers a dynamic rotation of categories: First Friday, Taste of Art, and Dance After Work, as well as Summer Breeze. Free; no tickets required. Drink specials start at 5:30 pm in Best Café.

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RVA Burlesque Bingo
Nov
28
7:00 PM19:00

RVA Burlesque Bingo

Ellie Quinn Presents Burlesque Bingo will now be happening the last Friday every month at Basic City Beer Co! This is a bingo game not of numbers and letters, but where the details of the burlesque performances themselves make up the bingo card tiles. There are prizes for each winner!

Participation in the bingo game is completely optional; feel free to just enjoy the show.

Featuring: Draven DeMoan, Evie Vixen, Luna LaMorgue, Nostra-Dad-Ass, Salem Sirene, and Strega Celestina.

Doors 7pm show 7:30pm
Ages 18 and up
Advance tickets $15 and $20 day of.
Admission includes 1 bingo card. Additional bingo cards can be purchased for $1.

Seating: Seating is general admission with unconventional seating options, such as high top stools, picnic tables, and folding chairs. Please email elliequinnpresents@gmail.com if you need specific accommodations.
Venue accessibility: The venue is accessible, with a ramp available for entrance.
Venue parking: Parking lot onsite.
Food and beverage availability: Beer, cider, wine, and non-alcoholic options. Pizzas, charcuterie, and snacks

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VA Rep's A Christmas Carol
Nov
28
to Dec 28

VA Rep's A Christmas Carol

  • Virginia Repertory Theatre (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

A beloved classic – this heartwarming story of second chances comes to Richmond this holiday season. Experience Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey through Christmas Past, Present, and Future, in a story that celebrates the human spirit and our capacity for joy — a reminder that even the coldest heart can be thawed by warmth and kindness.

On stage beginning Nov. 28 - Dec. 28, tickets on sale now!

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Visit with Soul Santa 2025!
Nov
29
11:00 AM11:00

Visit with Soul Santa 2025!

  • Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

BHMVA welcomes the community to our annual signature program, Soul Santa! Children and families are invited to visit with Soul Santa, listen to Christmas stories, enjoy arts and crafts activities, and receive a special treat. During the visit, each family will also have the opportunity to take a photo with Soul Santa and receive a printed copy to take home. 

This program is free and open to the community however advanced registration is required. 

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Museum District Small Business Saturday Market
Nov
29
11:00 AM11:00

Museum District Small Business Saturday Market

  • Sheppard Street between Elwood and Floyd (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Since its inception, Small Business Saturday has become a widely recognized movement supported by local chambers of commerce, neighborhood associations, and government officials. Each year, it generates billions in revenue for small businesses nationwide and helps keep money circulating in local communities. Join us as we celebrate small businesses in the Museum District on November 29th! This market will take place on Sheppard Street between Floyd and Ellwood Avenues. The street will be closed from vehicle traffic during set up, market hours, and break down.

This market is a curated collection of Virginia creatives and makers offering fine art, art prints, pottery/ceramics, jewelry, textiles, candles, and more.

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2025 Small Business Saturday at Hardywood RVA
Nov
29
12:00 PM12:00

2025 Small Business Saturday at Hardywood RVA

  • Hardywood Park Craft Brewery (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

JOIN US for our 4th Annual "Small Business Saturday" at Hardywood RVA! Shop small RVA businesses this Holiday season! We bring together amazing local artists and makers selling handmade home décor, art, jewelry, apparel, and more! Indoor Event, located in Hardywood's Barrel Room.

APPLY on our Website www.artisanmakers.org

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Riverside Vines Boat Parade
Nov
29
12:00 PM12:00

Riverside Vines Boat Parade

  • 3415 Leonards Lane Sutherland, VA, 23885 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Kick off the season with us at Riverside Vines’ 3rd Annual Holiday Boat Parade on Lake Chesdin!

We've got fun for the whole family lined up and fantastic prizes provided by Dances Sporting Goods in store for our 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place boats.

Enjoy a festive Christmas Market of local vendors under the tent, mulled wine + hot chocolate, BBQ meals, holiday tunes from our live DJ, and a parade of boats decked out with dazzling holiday lights + decor. Plus, Santa will be stopping by for photo ops from 1-4 PM. Check out our line-up before the parade begins at 5:30pm!

Get in the holiday spirit and bring the family out to enjoy the show and festivities on land, or join in on the fun from the water by registering your boat at the link below!

Boat Registration: riversidevines.com/boatparade
*Our team will reach out with further details prior to the vent*

Hours: 12—6pm
Parade: 5:30pm
Santa: 1—4pm

3415 Leonards Lane, Sutherland, VA 23885

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Clothes/Off 2
Nov
29
2:30 PM14:30

Clothes/Off 2

Experience the Cage Rage AGAIN, One Layer at a Time!

We’re back. We're wilder. We're… cagier.

After last year’s sold-out tribute to the man, the myth, the meme — the Duke of Drama himself — we’re cranking the chaos to eleven. Clothes/Off 2: Cagier & Uncaged is a burlesque love letter to the full spectrum of Nicolas Cage: from cult classics to cinematic fever dreams, from national treasure to full-blown Cage rage.

Expect dazzling striptease, unhinged characters, and maybe even a stolen Declaration of Independence. Whether you crave the smolder of Face/Off, the glitter of Vampire’s Kiss, or the madness of The Wicker Man, this show is bursting with Cage-inspired tease and tease-inspired Cage.

Come lose your mind with us — because one Cage is never enough.

For any questions or any accommodations, please contact elliequinnpresents@gmail.com

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Clothes/Off 2
Nov
29
6:30 PM18:30

Clothes/Off 2

Experience the Cage Rage AGAIN, One Layer at a Time!

We’re back. We're wilder. We're… cagier.

After last year’s sold-out tribute to the man, the myth, the meme — the Duke of Drama himself — we’re cranking the chaos to eleven. Clothes/Off 2: Cagier & Uncaged is a burlesque love letter to the full spectrum of Nicolas Cage: from cult classics to cinematic fever dreams, from national treasure to full-blown Cage rage.

Expect dazzling striptease, unhinged characters, and maybe even a stolen Declaration of Independence. Whether you crave the smolder of Face/Off, the glitter of Vampire’s Kiss, or the madness of The Wicker Man, this show is bursting with Cage-inspired tease and tease-inspired Cage.

Come lose your mind with us — because one Cage is never enough.

For any questions or any accommodations, please contact elliequinnpresents@gmail.com

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Legends on Grace: Yes And! Theatrical Company
Nov
29
8:00 PM20:00

Legends on Grace: Yes And! Theatrical Company

  • Dominion Energy Center for the Performing Arts (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

To ring in the holiday season, Yes And! Theatrical Company brings you Trunk Show Band to present a mixed tape set featuring a rollicking program of holiday tunes and seasonal pop hits. An ensemble of local vocalists will pepper their performances with tales, tidbits, and holiday memories inspired by the soundtrack of the evening!

Trunk Show Band is a Richmond-based supergroup of musicians and vocalists who found each other in the theatre. Known for their eclectic range of full-album covers, Trunk Show carefully selects local theatre talent and collaborates with the local music scene to lend an authentic sound to their energetic cover performances.

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