Witness this natural wonder throughout late fall and winter; you may not need to go far from home. | Photo by Katherine Scott, via VA State Parks
May your fantastic journey to find the elusive “rainbow swamp” begin. The Virginia State Parks Department drew our attention to this natural wonder last month — a cypress wetland enchanted by an ethereal, multicolored glow. Find out how it occurs.
The parks team recommends a three-hour trip to Virginia Beach to see the phenomenon, but what if you could witness it closer to home? We found three local parks glowing with potential.
Where to begin your quest:
Powhatan State Park | If you don’t have time for a day-trip, test out your natural luck at Powhatan State Park, just 30 minutes from central Richmond.
Supporting evidence: A few people have attested to seeing rainbow effects at Powhatan — along the boardwalk — as commented on this post.
If you’re up for a day trip, follow Virginia State Park’s recommended venture to First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach. You can find the rainbow swamp along the Bald Cypress Trail.
Richmond Spiders vs. VCU Rams | 12-2 p.m. | Robins Center | $8 | Operation: Code Red is on. Spider women’s basketball faces VCU at the Robins Center on CBS Sports Network. Wear red, be loud, and support the Spiders in the season’s biggest home matchup.*
The Valentine has planned an open-house memorial for William J. “Bill” Martin on Sunday, Feb. 7. The local leader and long-standing Valentine director died on Dec. 28. The museum also plans to reimagine the Valentine Garden as a “living tribute” to Martin.
Open
Mama J’s Market in Jackson Ward has (softly) opened its doors to grab-and-go shoppers looking for handmade sides and kitchen staples. More celebration is in store. Attend the market’s grand opening on Sunday, Feb. 1, for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and mural reveal.
Civic
Your city, your voice. Richmonders have until Friday, Jan. 16, to submit feedback on two intersection safety surveys. Each survey addresses potential improvements, such as temporary curbs, roundabouts, and high-visibility crosswalks. (CBS 6)
Drink
We’ve added another restaurant to our Dry January guide. Throughout the month, TBT El Gallo will offer four new mocktail specials, NA Coronas, and buzz-free Cheladas. Take a look at the limited-edition menu.
State
Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger has selected Jeffery Smith as Virginia’s next Secretary of Education. Smith has worked in public education for 32 years, primarily in both Hampton City and the Town of West Point. See what the role entails. (Virginia Mercury)
Did You Know?
In 2025, the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources launched the VA Outdoor Women program, helped revive a declining smallmouth bass population, and identified 1,000+ species in need of conservation. See what other initiatives defined the year in the Virginia DWR Annual Report.
Community
Small choices that make a big difference on our streets? Buckling up, staying focused, and obeying speed limits — all part of the Vision Zero initiative. Take the pledge and help create a safer community.*
Kickstart the new year by expanding your business’s reach. Our business promo portal puts your message in front of our thousands of highly engaged local subscribers in as little as two days. Plus, first-time customers save 15% with code NEW15 at checkout. Get started.
Health
Did you find yourself straining to hear during holiday gatherings? Make 2026 a year of better hearing with Horizon IX. This revolutionary hearing aid delivers natural sound so real, experts are calling it a miracle. Dual processors separate speech from noise for effortless clarity so you won’t miss a single word. Start your 45-day no-risk trial.*
Wellness
Interested in a THC or CBD journey in 2026? Women-owned and operated brand TribeTokes is offering 15% off with code DRYJAN15, plus a free CBD/CBG tincture when you spend $40. Try pineapple THC gummies or mini THCA prerolls for some California sober fun during dry January.†*
The Buy
Are you resolving to drink more water this year? Set yourself up for success with a sleek, insulated water bottle that keeps liquids chilled for up to 24 hours. Bonus: It’s dishwasher safe.
If you go out adventuring and stumble upon an elusive rainbow glow in a park around Richmond, drop me a line. Photo evidence was hard to come by for some examples, but I think that adds to the phenomenon-seeking fun.
My money’s on Dutch Gap Conservation Area in Chesterfield County. The park representative I spoke with could not confirm or deny the mythical occurrence. See where else you might want to look.
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