If you love the free community resource you’re reading right now (we sure do), support us today with a one-time donation. | Graphic by 6AM City
We take great pride in offering our weekly newsletter to you, our valued subscribers, for free — and we’re committed to keeping it that way. But we need your help. That’s why we’ve created a campaign to raise $2,500 over the next 10 days.
When you choose to support RICtoday, you’re investing in more than just a weekly newsletter — you’re investing in a stronger, more informed community. Your contributions go directly toward creating more of the local stories you love, expanding our coverage, and ensuring we can remain a free resource for all.
If you’ve gotten something out of being subscribed to our newsletter, like finding that life-changing concert in our Events section, or planning a memorable family day with our City Guides — we’re calling on you now to help support our mission.
We are part of 6AM City, a hyper-local media company focused on activating communities through daily email newsletters. | Graphic by 6AM City
A few reminders about us:
We impact readers’ lives. We receive hundreds of thank you emails every week. If you’ve gotten something out of being subscribed to RICtoday, we couldn’t be more honored to be part of your life.
We take a positive, unbiased approach to local reporting. While we’ll always let you know about decided-upon policies impacting our city, we skip the political discourse that can feel unending and draining. We believe reading about what’s going on in your city should be a positive experience.
The truth is, we love what we do. Sharing the most positive local news and events with our readers fuels us every day. If you’ve felt the love for our product too, help us today with a one-time contribution that supports local storytelling.
Live at The Branch: The 60s Jazzed Up | 6-7:30 p.m. | The Branch Museum of Architecture and Design | $35+ | Your ticket will include light hors d’oeuvres and a selection of wines as you listen to popular songs from the decade.
Succulent Container Garden Workshops | Wednesday, Feb. 19-Thursday, Feb. 20 | 6-8 p.m. | Maymont-Robins Nature Center | $60 | Create your own nine-inch container garden filled with succulents while sipping on refreshments.
Thursday, Feb. 20
Vintage Youth Presents: Open Minds Night | 7-11 p.m. | Gallery5 | $5 | Musicians, vocalists, poets, or spoken word artists can perform in an inclusive, judgement-free zone at this new monthly event.
24th Annual Pet Expo | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | Richmond Raceway Complex | $8+ | Bring your pets and enjoy a day of exploring vendors, pet-friendly activities, and more — all to benefit the Henrico Humane Society.
West Creek Warehouse Sale | 12-6 p.m. | Hardywood Park Brewing-West Creek | Cost of purchase | Grab a bite from one of the food trucks, listen to live music, and check out discounts on select bottles and merch.
Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled, changed, or postponed due to inclement weather.
Running from Friday, Feb. 28 through Sunday, March 2, this year’s theme, “Step into the Garden,” features stunning floral creations inspired by the Commonwealth.
Enjoy hands-on classes, demonstrations by top floral designers from across the country, and special events that will bring a pop of color + creativity to the winter season.
Gov. Youngkin is urging Virginians to “stay at home” amidst today’s expected winter storm. If you need to travel during the storm, remember to use your headlights, slow down, and ensure your vehicle is in good working condition before leaving. (WRIC)
Coming Soon
A new wine bar and cafe is headed to Carytown. Nouveau Provisions — owned by the same couple behind Nouveau Farms — will open in the former Bryant’s Cider location with Noveau wines, treats from JC Desserts, and bites from local food truck Fireside Pizza. Stay tuned for an opening date. (Richmond BizSense)
Development
Atlanta-based DC Blox filed development plans for a 65,000-sqft data center on the property that formerly housed the Azalea Flea Market. The filing comes after DC Blox withdrew its rezoning request last year due to opposition from neighbors + the planning commission voting to recommend denial. (Richmond BizSense)
Open
After closing for emergency repairs in October after a car crashed into the building, Boulevard Burger and Brew has reopened for business. Stop by the restaurant Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., or Friday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m., for burgers, brews, and milkshakes. (WWBT)
Outdoors
Maymont will celebrate World Wildlife Day with animal keeper talks, presentations, film screenings, and crafts on Saturday, March 1. Stop by from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. — advance registration is recommended.
Sports
Think you know the No. 1 fan of the Richmond Flying Squirrels? Nominate them for the team’s Fan Bobblehead Contest — the winner will be featured on a bobblehead given away at the Flying Squirrels’ 2025 regular season finale. Submit or nominate through Thursday, Feb. 27.
Health
The clarity is insane: That’s what people are saying about this best-selling hearing device. It makes conversation effortless, even amid background noise. Join 540,000+ happy customers with a no-risk trial.*
Business
Psst, small business owners — whether you’re investing in new equipment, hiring staff, or managing cash flow, Fora Financial has flexible funding options for you. Get funded fast.*
Category
Civic
🎶 I got my driver’s license REAL ID last week
Starting May 7, you’ll need a REAL ID or a valid passport to fly within the US. | Photo by Sergio Carreira, Wikimedia Commons
After years of delayed deadlines, it’s finally getting real — the official deadline to obtain a REAL ID is coming up on May 7, 2025.
Why do I need one?
You’ll need a REAL ID if you plan to fly domestically or enter secure federal or military facilities starting May 7. Take this 30-second quiz to find out if you need a REAL ID.
How can I get one?
If you currently have a Virginia driver’s license or ID, you can apply for a REAL ID at a customer service center or start the application online.
Next, you’ll need to bring the following to the DMV(originals, not copies):
Proof of identity
Proof of US citizenship or legal presence (Ex: passport or birth certificate)
Two proofs of Virginia residency (Ex: utility bill + bank statement)
Proof of your full Social Security Number (If you know your SSN, the DMV can verify it electronically)
A $10 fee + the cost of the driver’s license or ID card you’re applying for
Asked
Asked
Which of the following will you need a REAL ID (or another federally approved form of ID) for beginning May 7, 2025?
A. Registering to vote B. Driving C. Applying for federal benefits D. Accessing military bases
Hey, Richmond. I’m back for the day while your newest RICtoday Newsletter Editor, Elise, begins her training. Get ready to welcome her with open arms — she’s joining the team with lots of great Richmond knowledge (and love).