★ Switchfoot at The National
Rock band Switchfoot performs live at The National in Richmond.
17 Things to Do in Richmond This Week · May 21–24, 2026
Top Picks This Week
★ Salon de Résistance: Living Under Fire
An unfiltered conversation about surviving on the frontlines of global conflict with three of Virginia's most seasoned experts, hosted by RVA Mag at Black Iris.
★ Latino Market at Chesterfield Technical Center
A weekly Saturday morning market celebrating Latin American flavors, fresh produce, flowers, and Latino-owned small businesses, running through November.
Festivals & Special Events
Extended Play: Big Dipper Innovation Summit After-Hours Events
A full slate of after-hours events surrounding the Big Dipper Innovation Summit, including receptions, garden socials, rooftop sets, intimate performances, and a Scott's Addition block party.
Friday, May 22, 2026 · Main Street Station and Scott's Addition, Richmond
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Portraits of Hope Gala (REAL LIFE)
REAL LIFE's annual Portraits of Hope Gala fundraiser, supporting the organization's second-chance programs for those in need.
Friday, May 22, 2026 · Richmond
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Arts & Culture
250 Years of Expression: Freedom, Dissent, and the American Voice
A juried exhibition opening at Artspace exploring themes of freedom and dissent through the lens of America's 250-year history.
Friday, May 22, 2026 · Artspace Gallery, 2833-A Hathaway Rd, Richmond
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India's Great Mughals: Art, Power, and Opulence at VMFA
A blockbuster exhibition featuring more than 200 works exploring the grandeur, artistry, and influence of the Mughal Empire, now open at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts.
Friday, May 22, 2026 · Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Richmond
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Narratives — YES AND Theatrical Co
A new theater production sharing AAPI perspectives through story and song, produced by YES AND Theatrical Co.
Friday, May 22, 2026 · Richmond
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Music & Nightlife
Switchfoot at The National
Rock band Switchfoot performs live at The National in Richmond.
Friday, May 22, 2026 · The National, Richmond
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Richmond Bluegrass Jam 2026
Richmond's beloved bluegrass jam session celebrates music that's 'authentic, joyful, and truly American,' according to Richmond Magazine.
Saturday, May 23, 2026 · Richmond
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John Mulaney: Mister Whatever
Comedian John Mulaney brings his 'Mister Whatever' tour to Altria Theater for one night only.
Saturday, May 30, 2026 4:00 PM · Altria Theater, Richmond
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Food & Drink
Latino Market at Chesterfield Technical Center
A weekly Saturday morning market celebrating Latin American flavors, fresh produce, flowers, and Latino-owned small businesses, running through November.
Saturday, May 23, 2026 · Chesterfield Technical Center, Richmond
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Jardin RVA Opens as All-Day Café
The beloved Lombardy Street wine bar begins operating as an all-day café serving Afterglow espresso and in-house pastries and bread starting May 19.
Saturday, May 23, 2026 · Jardin RVA, Lombardy Street, The Fan, Richmond
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Brunch on the Plaza
A festive outdoor brunch event at Kanawha Plaza in downtown Richmond.
Sunday, May 24, 2026 12:00 PM · Kanawha Plaza, Richmond
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Outdoors & Active
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden Reopening
Richmond's iconic botanical garden reopens following expansions and renovations, offering a fresh look at one of the city's most beloved green spaces.
Saturday, May 23, 2026 · Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Richmond
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804 Run Club Wednesday Night Run
Richmond's welcoming weekly run club gathers for a party-paced Wednesday night run — all speeds welcome.
Wednesday, May 27, 2026 · Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Richmond
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Free Events
Second Fridays at Visual Arts Center of Richmond
The Visual Arts Center of Richmond's monthly Second Fridays event offers free all-ages art-making experiences and gallery access in the Fan District.
Friday, May 22, 2026 · Visual Arts Center of Richmond, Richmond
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