Exploring RVA: Your Curated Guide to October Events

Published on
September 25, 2024
Updated on

Oktoberfest at Kings Dominion

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As autumn paints the city in vibrant hues, Richmond comes alive with a cornucopia of fall festivities. From spooky celebrations to cultural experiences, there's something for everyone this October. Grab your flannel and pumpkin spice latte—it's time to fall in love with RVA all over again!

19th Annual Richmond Zombie Walk

19th Annual Richmond Zombie Walk
October 26
The undead will rise again for Richmond's beloved Zombie Walk! Join fellow zombies for a shambling stroll through Carytown, complete with photo ops, costume contests, and plenty of groan-worthy fun. Gather at Byrd Park for pre-walk meetups and bloodcurdling photo opportunities before unleashing the horde on Cary Street.
⏰ 1 p.m. for photo meet-up, 2:30/3 p.m. for start time | 📍 Starts at 2901 W Cary St, Richmond | 💵 Free
richmondzombiewalk.com

Richmond Restaurant Week

Richmond Restaurant Week
October 21-27
Support local restaurants and Feed More by dining out during Richmond Restaurant Week. Enjoy three-course meals at the city's best locally-owned restaurants for just $35.24, with $5.24 from each meal donated to Feed More. It's a delicious way to explore Richmond's culinary scene while giving back to the community.
📍 Various locations around Richmond | 💵 $35.24 per person
rrweek.com

The Masquerade Ball of Richmond
October 26
Step into a world of mystery and elegance at The Valentine. This event pays homage to 18th-century masquerade traditions with costumed figures, live opera, acrobatic performances, and interactive historical vignettes. Indulge in carnival-inspired delicacies and enjoy the "Spill the Tea" mocktail bar.
⏰ 6-9 p.m. | 📍 The Valentine, Richmond | 💵 $155 per person (limited to 200 guests)
queenslibrarytearoom.com

Oktoberfest at Kings Dominion

Oktoberfest at Kings Dominion
Weekends through November 3
Experience a taste of Germany at Kings Dominion's new Oktoberfest celebration! Enjoy authentic German food, imported beer, and festive entertainment amidst the park's thrilling rides and attractions. Don't miss the daily keg tapping ceremony, traditional polka bands, and stein holding contests.
📍 Kings Dominion, Doswell, VA | 💵 Included with park admission
kingsdominion.com

Powhatan's Festival of the Grape
October 5
Savor the flavors of Virginia at Powhatan's 21st annual Festival of the Grape. Sample wines, spirits, ciders, beers, and meads from across the state while enjoying live entertainment and local vendors.
⏰ 11 a.m.- 6 p.m. | 📍 3860 Old Buckingham Rd, Powhatan, VA | 💵 $35-$45
powhatanwinefestival.com

Scotchtown's Annual Fall Festival

Scotchtown's Annual Fall Festival
October 5
Celebrate autumn at Patrick Henry's Scotchtown with live music, traditional artisans, food trucks, and living history demonstrations. Enjoy open house tours, a children's activities area, and see Patrick Henry deliver his famous "Liberty or Death" speech.
⏰ 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | 📍 Scotchtown, 16120 Chiswell Lane, Beaverdam, VA | 💵 $10 General admission, $5 for students and members
preservationvirginia.org


Richmond VegFest 2024
October 5
Celebrate plant-based living at the 21st annual Richmond VegFest! Explore over 100 vegan-friendly vendors, enjoy entertainment across three stages, and indulge in delicious plant-based treats. Whether you're a committed vegan or just veg-curious, this festival offers a day of flavor, fun, and eco-friendly discoveries.
⏰ 12-6 p.m. | 📍 Byrd Park, Richmond | 💵 Free
richmondvegfest.org

7th Annual Birdhouse Farmers Market Dinner
October 6
Celebrate the bounty of Birdhouse Farmers Market at this multi-course, family-style dinner held at ZZQ. Enjoy dishes prepared by top local chefs using fresh, local ingredients from market vendors. This fundraising event supports Richmond's only mid-week, urban, SNAP-accepting farmers market.
⏰ 6-9 p.m. | 📍 ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque, 3201 West Moore Street, Richmond | 💵 Prices vary
birdhousefarmersmarket.org

Bourbon Dinner at Natalie's Taste of Lebanon
October 7
Indulge in a special bourbon-themed dinner at Natalie's Taste of Lebanon. Executive Chef Alex Vasquez and his brother Adrian present a five-course menu paired with bourbon tastings.
⏰ 6 p.m. | 📍 2825 Hathaway Road, Richmond | 💵 $90
nataliesrva.com

Oyster Week RVA
October 1-7
Celebrate Virginia's world-class oysters during this inaugural week-long event. Participating restaurants will feature special oyster dishes and pairings, with proceeds benefiting the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. It's the perfect opportunity to slurp your way through Richmond's best bivalve offerings while supporting a great cause.
📍 Various locations | 💵 Varies by venue
oysterweekrva.com


Wine Pairing Dinner: Tour of Northern Italy

October 13
Indulge in a five-course dinner expertly paired with wines from Northern Italy at Midlothian Chef's Kitchen. Learn about the pairings from Chef Dunlap and a wine expert in this interactive dining experience. Each course showcases the rich flavors of Northern Italian cuisine, perfectly complemented by carefully selected wines.
⏰ 6 p.m. | 📍 11501 Busy St, North Chesterfield, VA | 💵 $95
midlothianchefskitchen.com

The Art of the Cocktail: Fall Flavors & Aging Cocktails
October 15
Sip and savor the rich flavors of fall at Virago Spirits' cocktail class. Learn how to craft four seasonal cocktails in a live demonstration while diving into the art of aging cocktails to enhance their complexity. Perfect for cocktail enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of autumn in a glass.
⏰ 6-8 p.m. | 📍 Virago Spirits, 1727 Rhoadmiller St, Richmond | 💵 $35
viragospirits.com


Liberia Dinner Series with Chef Headen
October 18
Experience the flavors of Liberia with Chef Theresa Headen's curated 3-course dinner. Enjoy traditional Liberian dishes like dry rice with fried fish and okra soup with cassava fufu, paired with wines or non-alcoholic specialty drinks. Learn about Liberian culture and history from the Liberian-born chef herself.
⏰ 6-7:30 p.m. | 📍 415 West Grace Street, Richmond | 💵 $50
elegantcuizines.com


Richmond Taco, Beer, Tequila Festival
October 19
Indulge in over 30 different tacos from the region's best taquerias, sip on craft beers and margaritas, and vote for Richmond's best taco at this flavor-packed festival. Enjoy live entertainment, games, and a festive atmosphere. Don't miss the guacamole and churros pavilions for extra tasty treats!
⏰ 12-7 p.m. | 📍 Kanawha Plaza, East Canal Street, Richmond | 💵 $20-69
eventbrite.com


Annual Tredegar Society Wine Dinner
October 21

Support the American Civil War Museum while savoring Tuscan wines paired with a three-course meal from Enoteca Sogno. Enjoy great Italian cuisine while contributing to an important historical institution. This event offers a unique blend of culinary delight and historical significance.
⏰ 6:30-8:30 p.m. | 📍 Enoteca Sogno, 1223 Bellevue Avenue, Richmond | 💵 $150
acwm.org

Boos + Booze Pumpkin Painting Party
October 5 & 12
Get into the spooky spirit with a fun-filled pumpkin painting experience at Coco + Hazel. Unleash your creativity with paints, stencils, and all the supplies you need while enjoying delicious treats like a "Bloody Carrie" (their spooky twist on a Bloody Mary) or a Boo-zy Shake. Whether you're feeling sweet or a little scary, this event is perfect for a festive day out.
⏰ Various times based on date| 📍 2733 McRae Rd, Richmond | 💵 $45
eventbrite.com

James River Cellars Painted Doormat Workshop

James River Cellars Painted Doormat Workshop
October 6
Get crafty at James River Cellars with a painted doormat workshop by Hanover Mercantile. Create a stylish fall-themed doormat while sipping on wine in this fun, creative session.
⏰ 3-5 p.m. | 📍 11008 Washington Hwy, Glen Allen, VA | 💵 $35
jamesrivercellars.com

Paint 'N Play Succulent Workshop

Succulent Pumpkin Workshop
October 9
Create a festive fall centerpiece at this wine and craft workshop hosted by RVA Paint 'N Play at Ashton Creek Vineyard. Sip on wine while designing your own succulent-topped pumpkin. Learn arrangement techniques and care tips for your living autumn decoration.
⏰ 6-7:30 p.m. | 📍 Ashton Creek Vineyard, Chester, VA | 💵 $49-$69
paintnplayrva.com

Sourdough Starter Masterclass
October 9
Dive deep into the world of sourdough with Twisted Carrot Farm. Learn about starter maintenance, feeding schedules, and how to use different flours to create your perfect loaf. Take home your own personalized sourdough starter and gain access to exclusive sourdough discard recipes.
⏰ 6-8 p.m. | 📍 6106 Lakeside Avenue, Henrico | 💵 $65
eventbrite.com

Cinn-sational Cinnamon
October 8, 13
Learn to make irresistible homemade cinnamon buns and cream cheese icing in this hands-on class. Take home 8-12 ready-to-bake cinnamon buns and newfound baking skills. You'll also learn how to make pecan sticky buns as a delicious bonus.
⏰ Various times |📍 2652 Anderson Hwy, Powhatan, VA | 💵 $74
hobbyhillfarm.com

Laser Show at Science Museum of Virginia

Laser Show: Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon
October 3
Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing laser light show choreographed to Pink Floyd's iconic album at the Science Museum of Virginia. Experience the music in a whole new way as colorful lasers dance across The Dome's massive screen.
⏰ 6:30 and 8:15 p.m. | 📍 Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W Broad Street, Richmond | 💵 $12.50 members, $15 non-members
smv.org

Miramar Richmond Symphony; Photo credit: Chris Smith

Miramar and the Richmond Symphony
October 5
Enjoy the sizzling energy of Cuban Latin boleros as Miramar performs with the full Richmond Symphony. This unique collaboration promises an unforgettable musical experience.
⏰ 8 p.m. | 📍 Carpenter Theatre, 600 E Grace St Suite 400, Richmond | 💵 $10-86
richmondsymphony.com

Richmond Kickers

Richmond Kickers Soccer Matches
October 5, 19, 26
Cheer on the Richmond Kickers during their last three home games of the season as they push for the playoffs! Celebrate RVA Craft Beer night on October 5, Breast Cancer Awareness Night on October 19 (with proceeds going to the Bon Secours Foundation), and Fan Appreciation Night on October 26 with food trucks, giveaways, and the best fans in USL League One!
⏰ 6-8:30 p.m. | 📍 City Stadium, 3201 Maplewood Ave, Richmond | 💵 $17richmondkickers.com


Rain City Drive at The Canal Club

October 9
Rock out with Rain City Drive and special guests Belmont, Until I Wake, Siamese, and Nightlife at The Canal Club. This all-ages show promises an evening of high-energy performances and unforgettable music.
⏰ 6 p.m. | 📍 1545 E Cary St., Richmond | 💵 $22 advance, $25 day-of-show
thecanalclub.com

Youth Community Strings at Children's Museum of Richmond
October 11
Enjoy a performance by young musicians from the Youth Community Strings program. This event showcases the talents of elementary students just beginning their musical journey.
⏰ 3:30-4:30 p.m.| 📍 2626 W Broad St., Richmond | 💵 Free with museum admission
childrensmuseumofrichmond.org

Ali Webb - "Be Anything"
October 11
Experience jazz like never before with Ali Webb's humorous and touching performance at The Basement. Enjoy original songs and jazz classics that celebrate life's ups and downs. Ali's unique blend of humor and heartfelt lyrics promises an evening of laughter, reflection, and great music.
⏰ 7-11 p.m. | 📍 300 E Broad St., Richmond | 💵 $20 adv, $25 day of
thebasementrva.org

Slate River Band

Slate River Band - Outdoor Country Concert
October 12
Enjoy an afternoon of classic and contemporary country music with Slate River Band at The Cultural Arts Center. Bring your lawn chair and dancing boots for this outdoor concert featuring hits from artists like Merle Haggard, George Jones, and Trisha Yearwood.
⏰ 3 p.m. | 📍 2880 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen, VA | 💵 $20
artsglenallen.com

Don Giovanni

Don Giovanni
October 12-13
Experience Mozart's masterpiece as Virginia Opera presents "Don Giovanni." This timeless tale of seduction and retribution comes to life with stunning vocals and captivating performances. Sung in Italian with English surtitles, this production offers a perfect blend of drama, comedy, and breathtaking music.
⏰ Various times based on date | 📍 Dominion Energy Center | 💵 $25-$130
vaopera.org

Out of Bounds; Photo credit: Joey Wharton

Out of Bounds ft. flipturn and Colony House
October 17
Rock out at Brown's Island with flipturn and Colony House for the Dominion Energy Charity Classic's Out of Bounds concert series. It's the perfect way to kick off fall with live music by the river. Enjoy the crisp autumn air while dancing to indie rock favorites in this picturesque outdoor venue.
⏰ 6-10 p.m. | 📍 Brown's Island | 💵 $35-$45
liveloudva.com

Brandon Lake - Tear Off The Roof Tour
October 18
Join Christian worship singer Brandon Lake for a powerful night of music and spiritual connection. Experience uplifting performances in an energetic live setting. Brandon's soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics promise an evening of inspiration and community.
⏰ 7 p.m. | 📍 Virginia Credit Union LIVE! at Richmond Raceway | 💵 Prices vary
thebroadberry.com

The Book of Mormon
October 18-19
Laugh along with the nine-time Tony Award-winning Best Musical that has been hailed as "the funniest musical of all time." Experience the outrageous adventures of mismatched missionaries in this hilarious production. Be prepared for irreverent humor, catchy tunes, and non-stop entertainment.
⏰ Various times | 📍 Altria Theater | 💵 Prices vary
altriatheater.com

Ahmed Al-kadri Comedy Show
October 25
Laugh along with Yemeni-American comedian Ahmed Al-kadri at The Basement. Known for his social media following and featured content, Al-kadri brings his unique perspective to the stage. Expect a night of cultural observations, relatable jokes, and fresh comedic talent.
⏰ 6:30-10:30 p.m. | 📍 300 E Broad St., Richmond | 💵 $25
thebasementrva.org


Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix™ in Concert
October 26
Experience the magic of Harry Potter like never before as the Richmond Symphony performs Nicholas Hooper's unforgettable score live to picture. Relive the excitement of Harry's fifth year at Hogwarts with a full symphony orchestra, bringing the wizarding world to life in a whole new way.
⏰ 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. | 📍 Altria Theater | 💵 Prices vary
altriatheater.com

The Rocky Horror Picture Show with Patricia Quinn
October 28
Don't dream it, be it! Join original cast member Patricia Quinn for a special screening of the cult classic, complete with a shadow cast, costume contest, and all the audience participation you can handle. Dress up as your favorite character and prepare for a night of campy fun and nostalgia.
⏰ 8 p.m. | 📍 Dominion Energy Center | 💵 Prices vary
dominionenergycenter.com

SEED: Cultivating Wellness Through Community

SEED: Cultivating Wellness Through Community
October 7 & 14
Experience an evening of wellness at Celeste Farms featuring yoga, live music, and outdoor spa amenities. Enjoy farm-to-table picnic options and end the night with a cozy campfire. Indulge in wood-fired hot tubs, saunas, and ice baths for a truly rejuvenating experience.
⏰ 6-9 p.m. | 📍 7001 Osborne Turnpike, Richmond | 💵 $50 per car
celestefarms.com

BrewAsana: Hardywood Yoga
October 13
Elevate your yoga practice with BrewAsana at Hardywood Brewery. Flow to hip-hop and house music in this high-energy Power Vinyasa class set in a vibrant brewery atmosphere. Follow up your practice with a refreshing craft beer in the taproom.
⏰ 11:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. | 📍 Hardywood Brewery, 2410 Ownby Lane | 💵 $10
3syoga.com

Cap Trail 10M & 5k

Cap Trail 10M & 5k
October 26
Run or walk along the scenic Virginia Capital Trail in this Halloween-themed race. Enjoy fall foliage, a costume contest, and post-run celebrations at Stone Brewing. Choose between the 10-mile or 5k route, both offering beautiful river views and autumnal scenery.
⏰ Various start times depending on race | 📍 Virginia Capital Trail | 💵 $32-$43
virginiacapitaltrail.org

Be the first to know: RVA's top events
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