GardenFest continues most nights through early January. | Photo by RICtoday
GardenFest of Lights is back at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden through Wednesday, Jan. 5.
The theme “Homes & Habitats: A Celebration of Connection” brings millions of lights to line garden paths, decorate trees, and form sculptures. Visitors will be able to explore different ecosystems through displays inspired by wetlands, rainforests, deserts, and more.
Bonus: Don’t miss the live tree outside the Conservatory and light tunnel in the Central Garden.
While meandering the gardens, guests can also get warm by the fire, enjoy hot drinks, and examine intricate model trains in the Kelly Education Center.
Get tickets in advance — each night has timed arrivals. There are a number of special nights, including dog-friendly dates and live music on select Tuesdays.
Heads up: The Garden is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas.
Last year, Lewis Ginter topped USA Today’s list of best holiday lights at botanical gardens. The Garden is up for the distinction again this year — voting is open now.
Sam Greenfield | 7 p.m. | The Camel | $20 | The multi-instrumentalist will play with Bebbus.
Tuesday, Nov. 19
Writing Show: Writing Unlikeable Characters | 6-8 p.m. | Virtual | $12+ | A trio of experts from James River Writers will discuss forming anti-heroes, navigating unpleasant character traits, and pushing the envelope.
Real Friends | 7 p.m. | Canal Club | $35+ | Get ready for a night of pop punk with Can’t Swim, Carly Cosgrove, and Slow Joy.
Wednesday, Nov. 20
Freeform Fabric Collage | 6:30-8 p.m. | Quarry | $15+ | This class will help you with freestyle hand stitching and combining fabrics in a creative way — no experience required.
Thursday, Nov. 21
Christmas with C.S. Lewis | Thursday, Nov. 21-Sunday, Nov. 24 | 7:30 p.m. | Carpenter Theatre at Dominion Energy Center | $35+ | Gregory Williams Welsch stars in this holiday play about the author and theologian.
Friday, Nov. 22
Sunrise Science | 8-9 a.m. | Science Museum of Virginia | Free | Meet astrophysicist Dr. Kartik Sheth as he dives into the origins of galaxies, his work on some of the world’s most iconic telescopes, and his career spanning from NASA to the White House.*
Pocahontas Reframed Film Festival | Friday, Nov. 22-Sunday, Nov. 24 | Times vary | VMFA and VMHC | $25+ | Get tickets online to see a selection of films by and about Native people.
Can’t make it to RVA yet? Experience it virtually to get a sneak peek. | Photo provided by Venture Richmond
Whether you’re a Richmond local or thinking about moving to RVA, there’s a new virtual program that allows anyone to explore the city — before leaving home.
Thanks to Venture Richmond’s free drone-based tour, users can take a virtual stroll through downtown and check out popular spots in each area. It’s the perfect way to visit RVA’s treasures and preview its new additions before you visit.
Here’s a quick snapshot:
Eight neighborhoods | Explore the unique vibes of places like historic Shockoe Slip or rapidly growing Manchester.
34 venues | From busy streets to cultural hubs, you can easily take a look at some of downtown’s must-see spots.
The first concert to be announced for Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront will be Dwight Yoakam on June 21. Tickets to see the Grammy-winning country singer-songwriter will go on sale this Friday, Nov. 22 at 10 a.m.
Opening
Abi’s Books and Brews will open this Saturday, Nov. 23. The VCU-area coffee shop and book store plans to have late-night hours. It’s located in the former Kulture space on Cary Street.
Coming Soon
Monroe Ward is getting a wine bar. Chez Nous will have a French-inspired wine list and small bites menu, plus a retail area. Owner Melissa Stallard plans to open in early 2025. (Richmond BizSense)
Traffic
Watch out for nightly lane closures if you’re traveling north on Arthur Ashe Boulevard near Scott’s Addition. Between Clay and Leigh, crews will be working to install a sewer lateral. Closures will be in effect from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. through Monday, Dec. 2.
Edu
In accordance with the new policy from the Virginia Dept. of Education, RPS will institute a cell phone ban in January. Want more information? The district is hosting a virtual town hall this Wednesday, Nov. 20 at 6:30 p.m. (CBS 6 News)
Drink
Starr Hill is celebrating five years in Richmond with a days-long party Dec. 12-15. Festivities will include five special beer releases, a drag pageant, and holiday market.
Listen
Get to know Mayor-elect Danny Avula on a recent episode of the RVA’s Got Issues series from VPM. The conversation includes Avula’s thoughts on his transition team, high priority policy areas, and coordinating with state and federal officials. (VPM)
Arts
RPAA Night, a series by the Richmond Performing Arts Alliance in partnership with Broadway in Richmond, offers a limited number of free tickets to select performances for individuals from designated communities. Bonus: Tickets include access to a pre-show event complementing the show’s theme.*
Seasonal
Richmond’s beloved holiday tradition, the Tacky Light Run 6K, is back and unstylish as ever. Grab your fellow runners, walkers, and Santa lovers to jingle all the way through over three miles of Walton Park neighborhood’s tacky holiday home displays. Register before prices increase on Nov. 22.*
Try This
Want to explore the universe with a NASA scientist? Join Dr. Kartik Sheth at the Science Museum of Virginia on Friday, Nov. 22 at 8 a.m. to learn about the origins of galaxies, his influential work on iconic telescopes, and more. Save your (free) seat.*
Trending
It’s here — Oprah’s Favorite Things list for 2024. We’re seeing: fluffy ear muffs, cozy slippers, french fry seasoning, and fancy chocolate bark.*
The Buy
The Buy
The Helios Heated Scarf — it’s the ultimate winter accessory that offers three different heat levels. Bonus: It’s 58% off for a limited time.
