New museum wing, same perfect picnic spot. | Rendering courtesy of SmithGroup and Beauty & The Bit
The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is in the midst of its biggest expansion yet, totaling ~173,000 sqft and $261 million. After years of anticipation, we’re getting a better idea of what the transformation will look like.
What to expect:
The new McGlothlin Wing II will spearhead the expansion with:
Expanded galleries for African, American, Indigenous American, and 20th- and 21st-century art
A cafe and bar, special events space (seating ~500), and new meeting rooms
A second special-exhibition gallery
Guests will be able to visit the cafe and bar from an entrance off Grove Avenue.
Image courtesy of SmithGroup and Beauty & The Bit
Along with these changes, guests can anticipate “blockbuster special exhibitions, public programs, performances, and increased dining options,” according to VMFA.
Honor your school heroes with the Thank a Teacher Art Contest
Presented by Virginia Lottery
Thank a Teacher started in 2016 with one goal: to thank as many K-12 public school teachers in Virginia as possible during National Teacher Appreciation Week in May. | Photo provided by Virginia Lottery
Teachers inspire every day — and now is the time to thank them.
Keep reading to hear about this local chef’s latest accolade.
Photo courtesy of Leah Branch
Weather
Ahead of inclement weather this weekend, the City of Richmond is engaging in critical preparedness activities, according to Mayor Danny Avula. Residents can rely on these winter safety resources and sign up for Richmond Ready alerts to stay updated.
Award
Congratulations are in order for Chef Leah Branch of The Roosevelt. The local all-star is officially a 2026 James Beard Award semifinalist — the only candidate from RVA. Branch is a semifinalist in the Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic category. Finalists will be announced in March, followed by winners in June.
Eat
What if your morning bagel came to you? Nate’s Bagels in Scott’s Addition is now offering delivery. Take a peek at the online menu, where you can order signature or build-your-own bagels, coffee, baked goods, and tubs of specialty cream cheese.
Ranked
Richmond earned a No. 15 spot on ConsumerAffairs’ list of best places for a fresh start. The report analyzed 100 US cities and based scores on factors such as quality of life, affordability, and ease of relocation. See Richmond’s scores.
Try This
Want to perform at a Flying Squirrels game? Auditions to sing the national anthem are open, inviting soloists, duos, and groups to fill out a form and submit an audition video.
Plan Ahead
The Monument Avenue 10K returns on Saturday, April 18, which means we’re still in the early-bird registration window. If you’re planning to join the race, consider registering before Sunday, Feb. 1, when prices increase.
Edu
As a parent, it’s hard to know what moves the needle in college admissions. Empowerly starts with a free 30-minute consultation to honestly assess your student’s college profile — from there, you’ll get matched with a counselor, receive data-backed insights, and construct a plan. Get your free consult.*
The Buy
A great dermaplaning razor for unwanted facial hair. This reusable, plastic-free one comes with 11 refill blades and can remove dead skin cells, peach fuzz, and hair on the upper lip, cheeks, and eyebrows.
With potential heavy snow on the way, some weekend events have already been canceled or rescheduled, such as the Richmond Moon Market. I recommend double-checking for updates on any other upcoming events. Stay safe, everyone.
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