If loving a freshly picked apple in the fall is wrong, then we don’t want to be right. | Photo by Sarah Hauser via Virginia Tourism Corporation
Today is the autumnal equinox, which means fall will officially arrive at 2:19 p.m. And what screams fall more than a freshly picked apple?
Whether you’re looking to pick your own to eat, bake, or turn into sauce, Richmond’s local orchards have a vast variety of apples that are perfect for every use.
Not sure what types are best for what? Check out this tool from Chiles Family Orchards. Simply tap on the apple variety you’re interested in to see what it’s best used for and when it will be available at the orchard.
It’s as easy as pie — no, literally. Fuji apples are estimated to be available for picking in early October, and they’re considered a top-tier choice for baking.
Asked
Asked
Which of the following apple varieties was not created or discovered in Virginia?
A. Ginger Gold B. Virginia Beauty C. Crimson Crisp D. Virginia Gold
Sundown tonight marks the beginning of Rosh Hashanah. The celebration runs until sundown on Wednesday, Sept. 24. Celebrate the new year with these events from the Jewish Community Federation of Richmond.
Weather
La Niña may be on the horizon. The National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center forecasts a 71% chance of the weather system from October to December. In Richmond, this climate cycle usually brings warmer weather while in effect. (USA Today)
Mansion Monday
Timeless charm? Check. Modern amenities? Check. Landscaping worth a feature in “Better Homes & Gardens”? Check — and that’s just a few of the boxes this 4-bed, 3-bath home in the Windsor Farms neighborhood ticks off. See more of its swoon-worthy features for yourself.
Cause
Host and comedian Nate Bargatze donated $250,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of America during the 2025 Emmys, using length of acceptance speeches to determine the amount donated.Luckily for us, there’s no time limit on giving back to Richmond’s local chapter. (USA Today)
The Word
Pumpkin spice. You know it, you love it, and according to Google, this seasonal blend is being searched more now than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a classic PSL or something more unique, get your autumnal beverage fix at these Richmond coffee shops.
Family
$8,912. That’s how much a family of four can expect to spend on average for a seven-night trip to Walt Disney World, including meals, park tickets, and overnight accommodations on property. Vacation not in the cards this year? Budget-friendly family fun awaits with these River City activities. (NerdWallet)
Featured Deal
Athleta’s Friends + Family Sale just dropped — find pieces that take you from early morning workouts to weekend coffee runs with 30% off the whole site (yes, everything).*
Jobs of the Week
Today, we’re focusing on jobs in the healthcare sector.
Explore the enchanting lights at Maymont during Garden Glow. | Photo by Dave Parrish
From upcoming festivals, tournaments, and parades, to spontaneous one-day events around the city, channel your inner social butterfly and make this season one for the books with these 25+ October events.
Kick things off with these three happening next weekend:
VisArts Chili Throwdown | Friday, Oct. 3
The chili competition may take center stage, but the real heart comes from the potters who handcrafted the bowls and the local restaurants that stocked the flavors.
2nd Street Festival | Saturday, Oct. 4 + Sunday, Oct. 5
Now in its 37th year, this fan fave fest offers two days of live music — this year, headlined by The Chuck Brown Band and DJ Drake + MC Choco.
Texas Beach Pro Skater | Sunday, Oct. 5
Richmond’s DIY community comes together for a trick competition (in real life) and a Tony Hawk Pro Skater competition (via DawnStar video games) — 1115 Mobile Kitchen will dish out the eats.
The Bissell CrossWave Edge Wet/Dry Vacuum that’s $50 off for a limited time. Vacuuming and mopping separately is a thing of the past thanks to this new wet/dry vac that tackles multiple surfaces. Seamlessly remove debris and dirt from your floor while mopping to shiny perfection. Bonus: It has a self-cleaning feature.
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
Sure, picking apples is great — but the real star of the show in my opinion? Apple cider donuts. When I tell you those delectable little morsels are one of the highlights of my fall, I mean it with my full chest. Pro tip: Coat them in cinnamon sugar. You’ll thank me later.