Richmond Festival Season: Your Essential Guide to Outdoor Entertainment this Spring and Summer
As the dogwoods fade and temperatures rise, Richmond transforms from a city of historic charm to a vibrant hub of outdoor entertainment and cultural celebration. May 1st marks the unofficial start of the outdoor event season, and residents are already pulling out their calendars to plan weekends filled with music, food, art, and family fun.
What makes Richmond special isn't just its rich history or beautiful river views—it's how the community comes together during these warmer months to celebrate everything from Greek cuisine to homegrown tomatoes, Shakespeare under the stars, and riverside concerts. These gatherings reflect the region's unique character and showcase why many call Central Virginia home and why so many choose to build their future here. Keel Custom Homes, a trusted Custom Home Builder in Richmond, VA, proudly serves families looking to create quality custom homes that match the beauty and spirit of Virginia living.
Whether you're new to the area or a longtime resident looking to make the most of the season, this guide organizes the best of Richmond's spring and summer events into easy-to-navigate categories. From weekly concert series that kick off in May to the season's final food festivals in August, consider this your roadmap to experiencing the best of Richmond's outdoor lifestyle in 2025.
Music Festivals and Concert Series
Nothing says summer in Richmond like live music along the James River or under the stars at an outdoor pavilion. This season brings an exceptional lineup of concerts and music festivals:
Friday Cheers
Friday Cheers on Brown’s Island. Photo from venturerichmond.com
May 2 – June 27, 2025 (Fridays)
Brown's Island, Richmond
Richmond's beloved weekly concert series returns for its 40th season, transforming Brown's Island into the city's favorite outdoor venue every Friday evening. This year's lineup features emerging national acts alongside local favorites, all set against the backdrop of the James River. Food trucks and local craft beverages enhance the experience. Tickets are $10 in advance, $15 at the gate, and children 12 and under enter free, making this a perfect family outing or date night.
Dominion Energy Riverrock
May 16 – 18, 2025 (Fri–Sun)
Brown's Island & Downtown Riverfront, Richmond
America's premier outdoor sports and music festival returns to Richmond for its 17th year. By day, watch or participate in activities ranging from trail running and mountain biking to kayaking and bouldering. By night, enjoy free concerts featuring nationally recognized bands. The festival celebrates Richmond's active lifestyle and riverfront amenities with a festive atmosphere that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Ultimate Air Dogs at Dominion Energy River. Photo by Eli Christman
BMX Biker at RVA Riverrock. Photo by Mobilus in Mobili
Allianz Amphitheater: Coming Summer 2025
Summer 2025 (Opening)
Downtown Richmond
This innovative 7,500-capacity amphitheater will become Richmond's premier outdoor entertainment destination when it opens in Summer 2025. Located alongside the James River and Historic Tredegar, the venue offers attendees stunning views of downtown Richmond's skyline combined with the natural beauty of the riverfront setting. The Allianz Amphitheater represents a first-of-its-kind entertainment space for Downtown Richmond, designed to showcase live music and performances during the peak outdoor event season. While specific performances have not yet been announced, the venue is positioned to attract national touring acts and enhance Richmond's growing reputation as a cultural destination. Visitors can expect a variety of seating options and amenities in this scenic riverside location.
Atlantic Union Bank After Hours Concert Series
June – August 2025 (various dates)
SERVPRO Pavilion at Meadow Event Park, Doswell
This summer-long concert series brings big-name national artists to the Richmond region in an intimate outdoor setting. The 2025 lineup includes performances by Darius Rucker (July 11), Foreigner (July 25), and more top acts across various genres. The 7,500-capacity pavilion offers both covered seating and lawn spaces. Tickets must be purchased separately for each show, with prices varying by artist.
JamPack Craft Beer and Music Festival
Jam Packed Craft Beer & Music Festival
August 9, 2025 (Saturday)
Brown's Island, Richmond
Cap off summer with this one-day celebration combining Virginia's craft beer scene with live music from regional bands. Sample offerings from over 30 local and regional breweries while enjoying performances across multiple stages. Food vendors and lawn games round out the experience. This 21+ event requires tickets ($45-65, depending on package) and typically sells out in advance.
Food Festivals & Culinary Events
Richmond's reputation as a food destination extends beyond its restaurants to include exceptional food festivals showcasing everything from international cuisines to local harvests:
Richmond Greek Festival
Dancers at Richmond Greek Festival. Photo by Eli Christman
May 29 – June 1, 2025 (Thu–Sun)
Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Malvern Avenue, Richmond
Now in its 47th year, this beloved cultural tradition offers authentic Greek cuisine prepared by community members, traditional music and folk dancing performances, and an open-air marketplace. Free admission makes it accessible to all, though you'll want to bring your appetite and wallet for the incredible food offerings—from gyros and souvlaki to baklava and loukoumades (honey puffs).
Lebanese Food Festival
May 16 – 18, 2025 (Fri–Sun)
St. Anthony's Maronite Church, Glen Allen
Celebrating its 40th anniversary, this festival has become a regional favorite for Mediterranean cuisine enthusiasts. Enjoy authentic Lebanese dishes like kabobs, hummus, falafel, and baklava while watching traditional music and dance performances. Free admission, parking, and shuttle service make this accessible for families and food lovers alike.
Ashland Strawberry Faire
June 7, 2025 (Saturday)
Randolph-Macon College campus, Ashland
This free street festival celebrates the strawberry harvest with over 300 vendors selling arts, crafts, and local products. The star attractions are the strawberry treats—shortcake, chocolate-dipped berries, and strawberry lemonade. Live music on multiple stages, children's activities, and even a pet pageant make this a family-friendly event perfect for all ages.
Hanover Tomato Festival
July 11 – 12, 2025 (Fri–Sat)
Pole Green Park, Mechanicsville
Hanover County's signature summer event honors its famous tomatoes with a weekend of celebration. The free festival features produce and artisan vendors, tomato-themed foods, children's activities, and live entertainment. Friday evening offers a kickoff concert, while Saturday brings the main festival day with plenty of opportunities to sample and purchase fresh Hanover tomatoes.
Carytown Watermelon Festival
Carytown Watermelon Festival. Photo by Eli Christman
August 10, 2025 (Sunday)
Carytown district, West Cary Street, Richmond
As summer peaks, Richmond's largest one-day festival transforms Carytown into a watermelon wonderland. This free event draws over 100,000 attendees, features over 100 vendors, 80+ musicians on multiple stages, and plenty of fresh watermelon. The mile-long street fair offers shopping, entertainment, and summer foods in a carnival-like atmosphere.
Art & Craft Fairs
Richmond's creative community shines during the warmer months with art festivals and markets showcasing local talent and handcrafted goods:
Arts in the Park
May 3 – 4, 2025 (Sat–Sun)
Byrd Park (Carillon area), Richmond
This juried fine arts and crafts show has been a Richmond tradition for 54 years. Set on the lawns surrounding the historic Carillon, the event features over 350 artisans from across the country displaying and selling paintings, pottery, jewelry, fiber arts, woodwork, and more. Food trucks and live music enhance the atmosphere, making it a perfect cultural outing for art enthusiasts and families.
Richmond Night Market
Second Saturdays, May-December (5–9 PM)
17th Street Farmers' Market, Shockoe Bottom, Richmond
As evening falls on the second Saturday of each month, the historic 17th Street Market transforms into a vibrant night market featuring local artists, makers, and vendors. Beyond shopping for handmade crafts, art, and vintage goods, visitors enjoy live music, DJs, interactive art demonstrations, and food trucks in a festive block-party atmosphere. The market offers a perfect glimpse into Richmond's thriving creative scene.
Outdoor Performances and Movie Nights
Summer evenings in Richmond bring opportunities to enjoy performances and films in beautiful outdoor settings:
Festival of Arts at Dogwood Dell
June – August 2025 (various dates)
Dogwood Dell Amphitheater, Byrd Park, Richmond
A Richmond cultural treasure since 1956, this summer-long performing arts series presents free performances in an outdoor 2,400-seat amphitheater. The eclectic programming includes classical concerts, ballet, live theater productions, and contemporary bands. Audiences can experience everything from Shakespeare to symphony, jazz to modern dance throughout June, July, and August. Many attendees arrive early with picnic baskets to secure prime spots on the lawn.
Richmond Shakespeare Festival
May 22 – July 20, 2025 (show run dates)
Agecroft Hall Gardens, Richmond
Experience classical theater in the courtyard gardens of Agecroft Hall, a Tudor manor house reconstructed in Richmond. The 2025 season features "Cyrano de Bergerac" (May–June) and "A Midsummer Night's Dream" (June–July) performed under the night sky. Guests bring lawn chairs or blankets and often picnic on the grounds before the show. The intimate garden setting and professional productions create a magical, old-world experience. Tickets range from $20 to $ 38, with discounts for seniors, students, and children.
Outdoor Films and Movie Nights
May – August 2025 (various dates)
Multiple venues across the Richmond region
Cinematic experiences under the stars are a summer tradition in Central Virginia, with options ranging from stadium screenings to free park showings:
Summer Movie Series at The Diamond
Richmond's baseball stadium transforms into an open-air cinema several times throughout the summer. Upcoming screenings include "Lilo & Stitch" (May 23) and "Wicked" (August 8), with more dates to be announced. Tickets are $10 per person (children 3 and under free), with seating available on the field (bring blankets or pillows, no chairs) or in the first-base lower bowl. Concessions and happy hour specials are available before each show, making this a perfect family night out or unique date night.City Stadium Movie Nights
The home of the Richmond Kickers offers its own movie series with stadium seating. The 2025 schedule includes family favorites like "Madagascar" (May 3) and "Finding Nemo" (May 30), plus screenings for various audiences through October. Tickets are affordable at $8 general admission ($4 for CityStadium+ Members, children 4 and under free), with concessions available for purchase.Henrico County Movies in the Park
For a free option, Henrico Recreation and Parks hosts Movies in the Park at various locations throughout the summer. Upcoming screenings include Dorey Park (May 2) and Deep Run Park (May 16) events. Movies begin around 8:00 PM, and movie titles are announced closer to the event dates. Bring your lawn chair or blanket for these family-friendly community gatherings.Goochland Drive-In Theater
For a nostalgic experience just outside Richmond, the Goochland Drive-In Theater offers weekend double features throughout the summer, with additional weeknight showings during peak season. This classic American experience makes a memorable evening for families, friend groups, or couples seeking a retro date night.
Family-Friendly Outdoor Attractions & Events
Central Virginia offers special events and attractions designed with families in mind:
Chesterfield Outdoor Fest
May 31, 2025 (Saturday)
Chesterfield County Fairgrounds
This free family festival showcases the many outdoor activities and adventures available in Chesterfield County. The second annual event runs from midday to evening with live music performances throughout the afternoon and exciting demonstrations like BMX stunt shows. Through hands-on activity zones, informational booths, and kid-friendly games, families can learn about hiking, fishing, camping, and other recreational opportunities offered in the county.
Flowers After 5
Every Thursday, May 15 – August 29, 2025 (5–9 PM)
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Henrico
Each Thursday evening throughout summer, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden extends its hours and invites visitors to stroll among the blooms in the cooler evening air. Live music from local bands provides the soundtrack (5–8 pm) while food, wine, and beer are available for purchase. Select nights are designated "Fidos After 5," when leashed dogs are welcome. Regular garden admission applies (members free).
Theme Parks and Water Attractions
Seasonal operations, typically May-September
For thrill-seekers and families looking for all-day entertainment, Central Virginia offers several major attractions:
Kings Dominion (Doswell, 20 miles north of Richmond): This 400-acre theme park features more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions, including 12 world-class roller coasters and a 20-acre water park, Soak City (included with admission). New for 2025 is the "Jungle X-pedition" themed area featuring multiple new attractions.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg (60 miles east of Richmond): Consistently voted "World's Most Beautiful Theme Park," Busch Gardens offers European-themed areas, world-class roller coasters, live entertainment, and animal encounters. The park's summer concert series brings additional entertainment value.
Water Country USA (Williamsburg): Virginia's largest water park features more than 40 water slides and attractions, including the state's only water coaster. The park offers options for all ages, from thrilling slides to lazy rivers and wave pools.
Planning Your Richmond Summer
To make the most of Richmond's event season, consider these tips:
Before attending any event, check official websites for the most up-to-date information on times, ticket prices, and any special requirements.
Follow event social media accounts for last-minute updates, especially for weather-dependent outdoor events.
Arrive early to secure parking and good viewing spots, particularly for popular events like Friday Cheers and the Dominion Energy Riverrock.
Bring essentials like sunscreen, water bottles, bug spray, and portable phone chargers.
Pack seating (lawn chairs or blankets) for outdoor concerts and performances.
Consider transportation alternatives like rideshares or biking to avoid parking hassles at downtown events.
Create a personal calendar of must-see events at the season's start to ensure you don't miss favorites.
Living the Richmond Lifestyle
Richmond's vibrant spring and summer event scene is more than just entertainment—it reflects the region's character and quality of life. From the banks of the James River to historic neighborhoods and county parks, these gatherings showcase the community spirit that makes Central Virginia special.
For many residents, easy access to these cultural experiences is one of the greatest benefits of living in this region. Whether you’re a newcomer or a lifelong resident, these seasonal events provide countless opportunities to connect with neighbors, experience local traditions, and create lasting memories.
Bookmark this guide for reference throughout the season and prepare to experience the best of Richmond's outdoor entertainment in 2025. Given the many excellent options on the calendar, the only challenge you'll face is deciding which events to attend.