Straight outta RVA, it’s 804 Day — a reference to our area code (804), the celebration of all things Richmond is this Friday (Aug. 2) with special events across the city. More local happenings in the days ahead include The New Pornographers at The Broadberry, the closing reception for “Indigenous Perspectives” at the Library of Virginia and a celebration of the commonwealth’s brews at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture. Enjoy!
Tribal Voices
If you haven’t visited the “Indigenous Perspectives” exhibition at the Library of Virginia yet, there’s a grand opportunity during the closing celebration, Aug. 2 from 5 to 7 p.m. Experience a drumming circle, dance and traditional craft demonstrations during the event. The exhibition continues through Aug. 17 in the library’s lobby and main gallery. Virginia is home to 11 federally and state-recognized tribes, and this showcase explores the culture of our first peoples through their art, performance and food. No registration is required, and limited parking is available in the lower garage.
—Harry Kollatz Jr., Senior Writer
Really Really Light
While the indie supergroup’s membership has fluctuated over the years, The New Pornographers’ commitment to power pop hooks and harmonies hasn’t changed — just check out last year’s great LP “Continue as a Guest.” The six-piece combo led by AC Newman and Neko Case stops Saturday, Aug. 3, at The Broadberry, an ideal venue for fans who aren’t heading to Northern Virginia to see them support The Mountain Goats on Sunday (and who also like air conditioning and a more intimate experience). Opening is Brooklyn-based art punk act Gustaf. Tickets are $35.
—Mark Newton, News Editor
Sip Celebration
Drinking local libations is an easy — and tasty — way to support small businesses, so I’m looking forward to kicking off Virginia Craft Beer Month with the sixth annual Virginia Brews (formerly BrewHaHa) festival Aug. 3 at 6 p.m. Held at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, the event is a chance to sip suds from a dozen breweries from all over the state, as well as enjoy food trucks, live music, the museum’s current exhibitions and more. Admission tickets start at $35 and include eight 3-ounce pours (additional drink tickets are available for purchase); admission for designated drivers is $10. Plus, mark those calendars now for VMHC’s spirits event Sept. 14 and wine festival Oct. 26.
—Mindy Kinsey, Editorial Director
RVA Music Bonanza
If you missed last year’s inaugural 804 Day festival at the 17th Street Market, do yourself a favor and make time to catch this year’s return event on Friday, Aug. 2, from 4 to 9 p.m. Local musical talents in a variety of genres will be performing on three stages, including headliner rapper Nickelus F, jazz musician Weldon Hill, rockers with Spanish and English vocals Los Hermanos Alacranes, and many more. Admission is free, but new this year is an $80.40 VIP package that includes a private performance by country group The Sugar Hollows and jazz band the Sweet Potatoes; 804 Day swag; and access to a dedicated bar, exclusive food and private facilities. This event also kicks off Richmond Music Week, a series of concerts and special happenings around town that highlight the local scene.
—Nicole Cohen, Arts & Entertainment Editor
Other Suggestions
- Page Bond Gallery’s 25th anniversary celebration and group exhibition “JUBILEE” continues through Aug. 3 at the gallery’s new location, 5601 Cary Steet Road.
- See 40-foot-long canoes resembling dragons gliding along the James River during the Richmond International Dragon Boat Festival at Rocketts Landing Aug. 3.
- The RVA Duck Race & Festival of Inclusion takes place on Brown’s Island Aug. 3.
- Fulton Hill pottery studio Clay Ground hosts an End-of-Summer Market & Fundraiser featuring “pay what you want” handmade ceramics Aug. 3-4.
- The Alt 102.1 Food Fight features rockers Cake at Brown’s Island on Aug. 4.
- Explore the history of Richmond’s music scene during The Valentine’s RVA Music Lovers Bus Tour, with stops at local music stores and concert venues Aug. 4.
River City Roundup is Richmond magazine’s weekly compilation of the best things to see, do and experience in the region, compiled by our editors. Get each week’s installment directly in your inbox every Monday by subscribing to our e-newsletter.
