This year’s Kwanzaa Festival theme is “Knowledge of Self.” | Photo via Elegba Folklore Society
The Juumba Stage, Ujamaa Market, Karamu Kitchen, and Watoto Kwanzaa — these event epicenters will come alive with performances, art, and cultural cuisines at the Capital City Kwanzaa Festival, Saturday, Dec. 27.
First hosted by Richmond’s Elegba Folklore Society in 1990, this annual tradition is the largest of its kind in the state. Visitors travel from across the East Coast to gather in community and celebrate the seven principles of Kwanzaa.
The merchandise market and kitchen will remain open throughout the entire festival.
Photo via Elegba Folklore Society
Event details
When: Saturday, Dec. 27, 1-7 p.m.
Where: The Greater Richmond Convention Center
Tickets: $7 in advance, $9 day-of; various student, senior, and youth discounts apply
Yesterday, Dec. 14, marked the beginning of Hanukkah — the Jewish Festival of Lights. Celebrate with a Latkes + Pajamas Night at Weinstein Jewish Community Center, or consider attending the Midlothian Hanukkah Party, Saturday, Dec. 20, for crafts, jelly donuts, a free bookstore, and a bring-your-own menorah lighting.
Cause
$7.1 billion. That’s how much philanthropist MacKenzie Scott donated to nonprofits this year. Here in Richmond, you don’t need deep pockets to do your part. You can give your time, kindness, or a few hours of hard work to one of these deserving volunteer opportunities instead. (ABC News)
Film
If “Home Alone” is on your watchlist this December, you’re in good company. The 1990 classic is the most popular holiday film in Virginia, per a new PixlParade report. Even better, you can grab tickets to see it on the big screen at The Byrd this Saturday, Dec. 20, at 7 p.m.
Eat
You donut want to miss this. Dunkin’ Donuts was just named the most popular donut chain in Virginia, edging out Krispy Kreme, Shipley Do-Nuts, and Daylight Donuts. Personally, we like to keep things local with Country Style Donuts, recently voted Richmond’s fave in RVA Mag.
Mansion Monday
What does country club living look like in Midlothian? This 5-bed, 5-bath brick colonial is tucked next to the Salisbury Country Club golf course. Step inside to find a morning room, two powder rooms, a wet bar, and an additional kitchen.
Travel
The approaching New Year is befitting a time as any for a healthy dose of wanderlust. That’s what we’re doing with Condé Nast Traveler’s 26 hottest travel destinations for 2026. Whether you’re after natural wonder, buzzy cities, or a vibrant food scene, you’ll get there quicker by starting at Richmond International Airport.
You’re smart — but your spending can still be dumb. These are the 11 dumbest things smart people waste money on.*
Jobs
“The process is super easy and far more cost-effective than using a recruiter.” That’s what one business owner said about hiring through our Job Board. See for yourself — post your open positions for free.
The Buy
Fresh, small-batch coffee from Trade. Take the quiz + get matched with coffee blends that align with your tastes and preferences. Bonus: Our readers get an exclusive 50% off their first month subscription — no code necessary.
🏀 Which team competing in this weekend’s 4 Tha Culture Classic has the highest net NCAA ranking?
Hey, I’m not the most sports-savvy either. After a round of second-chance hints, this trivia Q still stumped 64% of you. Updated with current standings, Georgia still leads the 4 Tha Culture Classic pack, ranked at No. 36, but Richmond adds pressure at No. 49.
It’s the most bun-derful time of the year. Google Trends data shows that December typically brings about an increased interest in baking at home. I have two local options to help you along that journey:
If you want to prepare your own goodies in the kitchen this holiday season, consider recreating a classic Virginia Peanut Pie.
If you prefer your baked goodies made by the experts, Shyndigz is open for holiday pre-orders.