Weekend Events in Richmond-only 15 minute drive
Richmond has SO many fun, often FREE, events going on. Here are a few for this weekend courtesy of RTD Update:
“Thoroughly Modern Millie”
July 28-30 & Aug. 4-5
Dogwood Dell’s musical this year is “Thoroughly Modern Millie,” the Tony-award winning story of Millie Dillmount as she starts her new working-girl life in Manhattan’s tap-dancing Jazz Age of 1922. Expect plenty of big band tunes and dance routines. Featuring Nicole Morris-Anastasi and directed by Joe Pabst. 8:30 p.m. Rain date Aug. 6 for any inclement weather changes. Dogwood Dell, 600 S. Boulevard. Free. (804) 646-DELL.
Valentine Street Party for “Nuestras Historias: Latinos in Richmond”
Saturday, July 29
The Valentine is hosting a party in the streets for its new exhibit “Nuestras Historias: Latinos in Richmond.” Stop by for dance performances in front of the museum from Latin Ballet of Virginia and Claves Unidos, live music by Bio Ritmo, as well as salsa lessons from Clara Toro of Salsa4Life. The new exhibit touches on the stories of the Latino experience in Richmond, from La Siesta, Richmond’s first Mexican restaurant, to Dominican hair salons and the thriving Latino population on Richmond’s Southside. Wanda Hernández, curator of the exhibit, said that she wanted to tell “the stories of people who look like me.” And that she could only imagine kicking off the exhibit with a celebration similar to street parties in her parents’ native Guatemala. There will be food and family activities. Opening weekend includes free entry to the museum and the new exhibit on Saturday and Sunday (general museum admission is typically $10). Saturday’s opening festivities will run from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. The Valentine, 1015 East Clay Street, thevalentine.org or (804) 649-0711.
Andrew Bird
Saturday, July 29
Singer-songwriter Andrew Bird will play Music at Maymont with opening act No BS Brass Band. The inventive performer plays multiple instruments including the violin, guitar and the glockenspiel. His most recent studio album is “Are You Serious.” Gates open at 6 p.m. Maymont, 1700 Hampton St. $33.50 general admission (bring your own chair or blanket), $65 reserved seating. musicatmaymont.com.
HeArt & Soul Brew Fest
Saturday, July 29
Stop by Hardywood for the second annual HeArt & Soul Brew Fest featuring urban DJ’s and visual artists, with food from Richmond’s favorite soul food restaurants. Dig into food from Mama J’s, Croaker’s Spot and many more. 1 p.m.-10 p.m. Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, 2408 Ownby Lane. Free entry, pay as you go. hardywood.com or (804) 420-2420.