15 Things to Do in Richmond This Week · August 13–16, 2026

Arts & Culture

Painted on Paper: American Watercolors from the Permanent Collection

A new VMFA exhibition opening this Saturday showcasing American watercolors from the museum's permanent collection, running through February 2027.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · Mary Ann Frable Works on Paper Gallery, VMFA, Richmond

Figure Drawing Open Session at Artspace

Drop-in figure drawing open session at Artspace Gallery — a recurring opportunity for artists to practice observational drawing with a live model.

Tuesday, August 18, 2026 10:30 AM · Artspace Gallery, 2833-A Hathaway Rd, Richmond

Outdoors & Active

804 Run Club – Weekly Wednesday Run

Richmond's welcoming mid-week social run club meets every Wednesday for runs at multiple paces followed by drinks — no membership required.

Wednesday, August 19, 2026 · Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Richmond

James River Plein Air Session

Join Artspace Gallery for an outdoor painting session along the James River, creating art in nature at sunrise.

Friday, August 21, 2026 8:30 AM · James River, Richmond

Festivals & Special Events

Richmond International Dance Festival at The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen

The Richmond International Dance Festival brings world-class dance performances to The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen this week.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, Richmond area

BLK RVA Community Awards

The 2026 BLK RVA Community Awards honors local entrepreneurs, trailblazers, and changemakers, followed by an awards after party.

Friday, August 21, 2026 6:00 PM · Hippodrome Theater, Richmond

Music & Nightlife

STS9 at The National

Electronic/jam band STS9 brings their psychedelic sound to The National for an immersive live experience.

Friday, August 14, 2026 · The National, Richmond

Hanson at After Hours at Innsbrook Pavilion

Hanson — yes, MMMBop — performs live at the After Hours series at Innsbrook Pavilion, proving those hits hit even harder as an adult.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · Innsbrook Pavilion, Richmond area

Date Night

Cahoots Bar – Live Music in The Fan

Nestled in the heart of the Fan, Cahoots Bar serves up delicious bites, live music, and a welcoming two-story neighborhood vibe — ideal for a date night or happy hour.

Friday, August 14, 2026 · Cahoots Bar, The Fan, Richmond

Candlelight: 90s Hip Hop on Strings

Experience 90s hip-hop classics performed by a string ensemble by the glow of candlelight at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture — closing soon on August 15.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · Virginia Museum of History & Culture, Richmond

Sports

NASCAR Night Race at Richmond Raceway

Richmond Raceway marks a major milestone with two NASCAR night races — catch the high-octane action under the lights at one of NASCAR's most beloved short tracks.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · Richmond Raceway, Richmond

Ashland Half Marathon & 5K

Sports Backers' annual Ashland Half Marathon and 5K brings runners through scenic Ashland, Virginia — register to join Richmond's running community for this community race.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · Ashland, Virginia

Family-Friendly

Donna Summer Musical at Dogwood Dell

Celebrate disco icon Donna Summer with a jukebox musical performance at the outdoor Dogwood Dell amphitheater.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · Dogwood Dell, Richmond

Bright Beginnings Regional Back-to-School Events

YMCA of Greater Richmond's community back-to-school event where nominated students shop for free backpacks, supplies, clothing, and shoes while enjoying hands-on activities.

Saturday, August 15, 2026 · Greater Richmond area (multiple locations)

Free Events

Second Fridays at Visual Arts Center of Richmond

VisArts hosts its monthly Second Fridays event — an all-ages, free community arts evening with open studios and gallery access.

Friday, August 14, 2026 · Visual Arts Center of Richmond, Richmond