The star-studded preview party for “Giants” will take place Tuesday, Nov. 18, followed by the public exhibition opening on Saturday, Nov. 22. | Photo by Sandra Sellars, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz are coming to Richmond next Tuesday, Nov. 18, to unveil the VMFA’s new special exhibit “Giants.”
“Giants: Art from the Dean Collection of Swizz Beatz and Alicia Keys” will showcase approximately 130 items curated by the celebrity couple — art, photographs, music memorabilia, and even BMX bikes.
The exclusive party may be sold out, but you can still reserve tickets ahead of time to see the exhibit, Saturday, Nov. 22 until March 2026.
Asked
Asked
🏛️ What city hosted the “Giants” exhibit prior to Richmond?
A. Minneapolis B. Atlanta C. Philadelphia D. Brooklyn
VCU Men’s Basketball vs. Saint Peter’s | 7-9:30 p.m. | Stuart C. Siegel Center | $23+ | Celebrate and honor active-duty military, veterans, and first responders at the Salute to Service Game vs. Saint Peter’s.*
Last call for RVA bike advice. We could use a few more tried-and-true tips before rolling out one super helpful article. Submit your advice, then consider sharing the link with a friend. Remember: You don’t have to answer all five questions.
Mansion Monday
We’re heading out of town for today’s feature — Charlottesville, but with a French-Provincial flair. Meet Sunday Lilac, a 21-acre estate taking advantage of every panoramic mountain view. Honestly, words don’t do justice; you have to see for yourself, and perhaps you’ll join us in yearning.
History
On Nov. 10, 1969, the first-ever episode of “Sesame Street” aired. Over the years, many of us have learned and laughed with Elmo, Cookie Monster, Bert + Ernie, and all the other familiar faces. Continue their legacy with a random act of kindness in Richmond.
Number
25%. That’s how much grocery prices have climbed in recent years, while dining out is up about 30%. According to a new Hims study, fast food can actually be cheaper than groceries in Richmond. Pro tip: Skip the drive-thru and grab lunch under $12 locally.
Watch
Cooler weather calls for more nights cozied up on the couch. Screen Rant named “The Vampire Diaries” the best television series set in Virginia. There’s actually an episode partially set (not filmed) in Richmond, in which the characters go to a fictional cafe with vampire-friendly UV-protected windows. (Screen Rant)
Environment
Scientists have uncovered dozens of new aquatic species in the Southern Ocean, including a carnivorous “death ball” sponge that uses tiny hooks to capture its prey. Luckily, the 2025 James River report didn’t mention anything of the sort. (ABC News)
City
Pothole on your street? RVA 311 makes it easy to report issues through their website, mobile app, or by calling 3-1-1. It’s a quick, no-fuss way to reach city services when something needs attention. Explore what you can request.*
Posting on our local job board is like using a GPS for hiring. It gets you to the right talent without the scenic detours. Ready to find your dream candidate? Post your job today. It’s 100% free.
City Guide
Fresh air + local finds
Prep your holiday meals with locally grown produce, or hunt down some handmade gifts for the season. | Photo by RICtoday
Still looking for farmers market open during the chilly season? We spotlighted a handful of options last week, and here’s a few more.
Gutter guards that make clogs physically impossible. Yes, really. Meet LeafGuard, a system with seamless construction that eliminates joints where leaks typically develop. The result? A maintenance-free solution that’s built to last. Bonus: Our readers save 75% off installation + an additional $200 off.
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.
Today’s Mansion Monday feature — seemingly straight from a travel magazine — riddled me with more adoring envy than anticipated, but alas, we march on.
Here’s another reminder that covetous real estate doesn’t have to breach the million-dollar mark. For example, I can’t help but imagine how I’d decorate and cozy up in this historic home, recently listed in Chimborazo. First, I just need $600,000.
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