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20+ giftable experiences for your favorite Richmonders

Here are our recommendations for memorable presents in the form of experiences.

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As City Editor Robin’s mom would say, “give fun, not stuff” this holiday season.

Table of Contents

We love to think our presents will be up on the mantelpiece forever. But let’s face it — some things are destined to add to our closet clutter. Check out our curated list of local giftable experiences so you can sleigh the holidays.

For the foodie

For the nature lover

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Lewis Ginter members can experience temporary exhibits, like 2023’s “Incanto,” with free admission.

Photo by RICtoday

  • Adopt an animal at Maymont in their name. The symbolic adoption helps to provide a healthy diet, veterinary care, enrichment activities, and habitat maintenance at the park.
  • Grant them RAL Pal status by making a monthly donation in their name to Richmond Animal League. Pals also get a magnet and bumper sticker, early access to special events, and the opportunity to name one RAL dog or cat each year.
  • Let their love bloom with a Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden membership.
  • Make a jellyfish terrarium, wire plant art, or a moss wall at one of PlantHouse Richmond’s January workshops.

For the artist

  • Gather their film-loving friends for a private movie party at The Byrd Theatre. Pro tip: Reservations include unlimited popcorn for all guests.
  • Try something wheel-y new with a one-day class or workshop at Hand / Thrown.
  • Explore new exhibits and enjoy other perks with a membership to the VMFA.

For the sports fanatic

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Up the Roos this season at City Stadium.

  • Join the W League RVA Founder’s Club on their behalf so they can see every game, get discounts on merch, and be among the first to cheer on Richmond’s newest team.
  • Up the Roos with season tickets to see the Richmond Kickers play at City Stadium.
  • Make a date at The Diamond to watch the Flying Squirrels — whether you want to snag a season membership or a more flexible plan.
  • Get the pickleball lover in your life an individual or dual membership for unlimited play at Bangers and Dinks.

For the adventurer

For the drama lover

  • “Born With Teeth” is the latest from Richmond Shakes, coming in January to the Dominion Energy Center Gottwald Playhouse.
  • Get dinner in the Arts District or Jackson Ward, then see a show at the November Theatre — “9 to 5: The Musical” is scheduled for this summer.
  • Contribute to Richmond Triangle Players’ annual fund and grant them donor benefits including access to sneak peek events, opening night tickets, and more.

For the lifelong student

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A Valentine membership will give them free admission and a front seat look at the museum’s work to reinterpret Edward Valentine’s sculpture studio.

Photo by RICtoday

We know we left some experiential ideas on the drawing room table. Share with us the experiences you’ve gifted — or would love to receive.

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