This weekend in Blacksburg, VA

Down To The Bone is slated to perform at the Richmond Jazz Fest.

Christ Wesleyan Church hosts a community yard sale paired with a back-to-school bash, creating a day of affordable finds and family-friendly fun. Browse a wide range of gently used items, including clothing for every age, shoes, household and kitchen goods, toys, books, games, furniture, and decor. Back-to-school prep is made simple with brand-new and like-new backpacks, notebooks, school supplies, lunchboxes, pencils, folders, and kids’ clothing ready for the first day. A giant inflatable bounce house keeps children entertained while parents shop, and hot dog plates will be available for purchase as a convenient lunch option while supplies last. Arriving early can help you discover the best deals.

Get registered for a Virginia Concealed Carry Permit class held at the Hilton Garden Inn Richmond South/Southpark in Colonial Heights. The session is scheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 8:00 AM. Registration is handled through an online form with fields for your email and personal details, plus optional guest registration and a payment step.

Swing by the RVA Big Market in Bryan Park for a lively market day featuring local vendors. The market runs from late morning into the noon hour, ending at noon sharp.

This three hour seminar focuses on how to prepare for and respond to an active attacker. It explains current realities and trends around active shooter incidents using data, builds skills in situational awareness and basic threat assessment, and offers training approaches to strengthen overall readiness. Participants work on developing a survival mindset to act under pressure, learn what to expect when law enforcement arrives, and create a practical plan intended to improve the chances of survival. The content applies to workplaces, schools, churches, and public settings. Instruction is delivered by experienced professionals with real world backgrounds, with the aim to help people be prepared, stay safe, and take effective action.

Hosted by East Coast Card Shows, this free two day gathering at the ACCA Shrine Center in Richmond is among the largest free trading card shows in Virginia. Explore more than 100 vendor tables featuring Pokémon and sports cards, from singles and graded slabs to sealed product, vintage finds and modern releases, along with TCG accessories and other collectibles. Browse anime themed items and card game favorites like One Piece, Disney Lorcana and Magic: The Gathering, plus Funko Pops and related gear. Attendees can buy, sell and trade with local and regional vendors, and the event is family friendly for all ages. Cosplay is welcome, concessions are available on site, and there will be giveaways, prizes and gift bags. Admission is free.

Preparedness can make a critical difference. This Level One Active Shooter Defense Training offers a practical, hands-on approach for churches, ministry leaders, security teams, and community members. Participants build readiness to plan for, act during, and increase their chances of surviving an active shooter situation, with guidance relevant to faith-based settings as well as the wider community. The session takes place at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. It is suitable for church security personnel, ministry volunteers, and anyone seeking to better protect themselves and others. Cost is $20 per person, and registration is required.

Taking place at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture, the [Un]Convention returns as a statewide, inclusive gathering for homeschoolers that celebrates the unconventional. It features a growing lineup of speakers and vendors, with a program still in development. This year offers a one day format followed by an adults only Unwind, giving speakers, vendors, and attendees time to mingle and enjoy snacks. Tickets are 40 dollars.

The Saturday full-service farm stand in Blacksburg offers freshly harvested seasonal produce, eggs, and pasture-raised, organically fed meat. Staff are available to help with purchases from a broad selection that includes produce, pork, chicken, beef, honey, eggs, and handmade soap. All vegetables are certified naturally grown and come directly from the farm’s own fields in Blacksburg, with only farm-grown produce sold for maximum flavor and nutrition. Eggs are gathered from the farm’s ducks and chickens, which are raised on pasture and fed certified organic feed. Poultry options include chicken, duck, and turkey from heritage breeds that are free-ranged and fed certified organic feed. The farm also raises pigs on-site in rotating paddocks and feeds them certified organic feed. During full-service farm stand hours on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, SNAP EBT and Virginia Farm Market Fresh vouchers are accepted, and SNAP customers receive 50% off vegetables through the Virginia Fresh Match program.

A hearty brunch at King’s Korner Restaurant and Catering features a station where omelets are cooked to order alongside brisket that has been cooked slowly. The spread also includes fried chicken, a salad bar, desserts, and drinks are part of the meal. Guests can help themselves as much as they like. Pricing is 21 dollars for adults and 11.50 for children ages 3 to 10.

Turn brunch into a sing-along party with throwback hits from the 90s as DJ Chuck T keeps the grooves rolling. Expect a lively room where everyone knows the lyrics, sips mimosas and cocktails, and digs into brunch favorites from Harry’s full menu. Fun props like microphones and sunglasses add to the experience so the crowd becomes part of the show. There are two seatings, each lasting about two hours. Tickets are $15 and include entry, the live DJ performance, sing-along entertainment, themed props, and the full event experience. The 2nd Floor Library Bar will be open for early arrivals to the later seating or for anyone continuing the celebration after the earlier brunch. Brunch chic attire is encouraged. An automatic 20% gratuity will be added to all checks.

Set above the city in an iconic historic Richmond building, this weekend rooftop brunch at Harry’s at Hofheimer pairs comfort classics with a lively rooftop vibe. Take in the views with brunch cocktails such as mimosas and a menu made for taking your time with friends and family, featuring favorites like Chicken + Waffles, Shrimp + Grits, and an Avocado Benedict. Whether celebrating a birthday, reconnecting with friends, hosting out-of-town guests, or simply enjoying a laid-back weekend afternoon, the atmosphere is social, upbeat, and distinctly Richmond.

Open Studio at Top Stitch Mending is a monthly time when walk-ins do not require an appointment. Bring one item with a minor issue for a quick on the spot mend, leave a larger mending pile for later pickup, or stop in to look around and talk about sewing and sustainability. Tips for preparing a mending pile are available in an Instagram highlight. If attending does not fit your schedule, mending can be mailed in or arranged through drop off at the Church Hill studio location or at Eco Inspired, the Southside drop off and pick up location. Accessibility details include a foldable wheelchair ramp available on request to navigate a 5 inch step at the entrance. The front doorway is 32 inches wide and the bathroom doorway is 22 inches wide.

LitCrawl Richmond is a citywide day of literary events centered around Carytown. Stop by for book-focused activities happening at participating spots throughout the area, with the full lineup available on the event website schedule.

Young readers will discuss Silverwing: the Graphic Novel by Kenneth Oppel while enjoying a snack and sharing favorite moments from the story. Activities include coloring pages and a chance to browse comics, with a limited number of copies of next month's book available to take home. This gathering is intended for ages 8 to 12, and siblings are welcome. To request a complimentary copy of Silverwing for the club, register by emailing duncan.hall@radfordva.gov.

A book signing and sale in the Richmond Public Library Main Library lobby spotlights Haunted Colleges and Universities of Virginia, a new book exploring the ghostly side of campuses across the state. The author will be present to sign copies, with books available for purchase. The library underscores its support for local authors through this event.

Learn the essentials of Konpa in a friendly bootcamp for beginners. Participants explore core timing, foundational footwork, and partnerwork tailored for social dancing, building comfort and rhythm step by step.

A sweeping Bollywood historical romance unfolds in the 16th century as the Mughal emperor Akbar enlarges his realm through conquest, then cements a political alliance by marrying Rajput princess Jodhaa. The story focuses on his effort to earn her love while confronting resentment and prejudice. Released in 2008, the film runs 3 hours and 29 minutes and is presented in Hindi with English subtitles. It is not rated, likely PG-13. Dr. John Henry Rice, VMFA’s E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Curator of South Asian and Islamic Art, offers a brief introduction. This screening is presented in tribute to the VMFA special exhibition India’s Great Mughals: Art, Power, and Opulence. Reservations can be made through the Find Tickets option.

This back to school gathering features a bounce house, food, music, and vendors. Each student can receive one backpack. The event offers a fun atmosphere to get everyone ready for the new school year.

An inviting community gathering focused on fellowship features complimentary ice cream with toppings, music, and enjoyment suitable for all ages. The atmosphere is relaxed and includes both longtime members and first-time visitors, creating space to connect with others. A line from Psalm 34:8 adds a thoughtful note to the occasion.

Frank Foster performs live at The Beacon Theatre Hopewell.

A local three-piece band unites whenever the moment calls for a good time, serving up lively tunes and an upbeat mood.

At Jungle Gem Plant Co., Jason and Stefanie Sarine of Humble Hen Farm & Nursery lead an orchid mounting class that covers how to mount orchids, why mounting can be an effective way to grow them, and additional methods and best practices for keeping orchids healthy. Each attendee receives three orchids and an assortment of mounting materials, along with guidance and practical advice from the instructors. Tickets are $125 per person. Registration is available through Instagram or Facebook by direct message with a name, phone number, and confirmation of Venmo payment. A QR code appears in the photo lineup. Other payment arrangements can be made, and in-person signup at the shop is available.

Diggy Graves and Ryan Oakes are set to perform live at The Broadberry. Expect an evening of horrorcore, rap rock, and hip-hop energy starting in the evening.

The Muckers bring their tour to a close with a lively send-off at the well-known Milk Parlor in Blacksburg.

Dreamers Academy Foundation presents a comedy showcase that pairs big laughs with a meaningful purpose. Jay Ski & Friends share the stage with special guest DC Young Fly for an evening packed with entertainment, upbeat energy, and a focus on creating opportunities for the next generation. Hosted at the Dominion Energy Center for the Performing Arts, this event brings comedians together to celebrate community, connection, and impact through humor.

Dogstar brings the All In Now Tour to The National for a live show open to all ages.

Beach Floyd brings an evening of Pink Floyd favorites to the Scott’s Addition Historic District, highlighting the soaring guitar solos that fans recognize and love. Look forward to a set of iconic tracks, vibrant sound, and an atmosphere perfect for enjoying music with friends.

Catch Dogstar live at The National in Richmond. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show starting at 8:00 PM. The lineup also includes The Backfires.

Richmond’s classic fast Sunday group ride delivers a demanding 40 mile workout built around two focused efforts. It begins with a neutral rollout from the city, the group stays together, stops at all red lights, and follows traffic rules, with a brief pause at Osborne Turnpike. The first challenge runs from Osborne to Kingsland for roughly 20 minutes using a rotating paceline, ending with a sprint at Kingsland and WRVA Road. The pace settles through Battlefield Park with a short stop at Charles City Road, then ramps up again on the Charles City Road section for about 15 minutes in a rotating paceline, finishing with a sprint just before the railroad crossing at Monahan Road. The ride wraps up with a neutral return to the city. This is a full drop ride with average speeds around 15 to 20 mph in neutral sections and 25 mph or more during the harder efforts. Riders should have the route saved and be ready to navigate home if they drop from the group. The ride is canceled if it is raining.

Graybo’s is an official Play! Pokémon League location hosting a casual, community-focused meetup for players of all skill levels. Attendees can hang out, trade, battle, and learn the game while connecting with fellow Pokémon fans in Richmond. Fun prizes will be available throughout the day.

Top Stitch Mending offers a two-hour introduction to machine sewing designed for complete beginners or anyone returning after time away. Learn how to thread a machine, wind and insert bobbins, change needles, adjust settings and parts, and start stitching. The session also highlights recommended tools and provides guided practice in different settings to build confidence. Studio machines are available to borrow, and that preference can be noted during sign-up when asked for your machine’s make and model. If bringing your own, bring the machine with its power cord and pedal, the manual if available, and one or two empty bobbins. If the class is full or the timing is not a fit, request a waitlist spot by emailing hello@topstitchmending.com.

Richmond’s favorite midday plant social returns to River City Roll for a summer edition that blends a curated market, community swapping, and local food and drinks. It brings together serious hobbyists, casual growers, and aroid enthusiasts who are searching for wishlist plants, ready to trade quality cuttings, or simply enjoying time with fellow plant lovers. Look for local and regional vendors offering well grown plants, rare aroids, and approachable favorites. Community swap tables provide a clean space to exchange healthy, rooted plants or fresh cuttings. Admission is free, and all ages are welcome. Door prize drawings happen throughout the afternoon, with entry tickets available at the entrance and a final drawing near the close of the event. River City Roll will have its full menu, craft beers, signature cocktails, and bowling available. To protect everyone’s collections, all plants and cuttings brought for the swap must be healthy and free of pests.

Nine professional performers in 18th century attire bring the Second Virginia Convention of March 1775 to life, concluding with Patrick Henry’s liberty or death speech.

Public historian, author, and exhibit curator Mark Greenough explores the roots and evolution of the Liberty or Death reenactments, beginning with the inaugural staging at St. John’s Church in 1927. First imagined as a single occasion, that presentation ignited decades of revivals and reimaginings for new audiences across multiple generations. Greenough managed the Liberty or Death Reenactment at St. John’s Church from 1992 to 2003 and now serves as Tour Supervisor and Historian at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond, offering a firsthand perspective on how the tradition has grown and changed over time.

Richmond Chamber Players presents Garden Echoes at Agecroft Hall & Gardens, launching the Interlude 2026 series. In a historic garden setting, Richmond Symphony musicians collaborate with local artists for an intimate chamber concert featuring Kreisler’s String Quartet, a duo for violin and cello by Richmond composer Benjamin Broening, and Vaughan Williams’s Phantasy Quintet.

In this 2-hour machine sewing class, you’ll learn how to read a basic pattern and follow the instructions to make a drawstring bag. You’ll go over common pattern vocabulary and symbols, practice different fabric pinning techniques, and work on zig zag stitches. The class also includes a quick review of threading your machine, loading the bobbin, and using reverse. If you have a pattern with questions, you can bring it along. This class is for ages 12 and up, and participants should already know how to thread a sewing machine, load/wind a bobbin, and sew a straight stitch.

Catch Pure Prairie League live at The Tin Pan. The show is scheduled for 7:00 PM at the venue in Richmond.

5 Seconds of Summer brings the EVERYONE'S A STAR! World Tour to Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront for a live show. The concert will proceed regardless of weather. Doors open before the performance. VIP packages are available, including an artist presale and a separate release for VIP options.

5 Seconds of Summer and The Band CAMINO are set to perform live at Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront in Richmond. The show starts in the evening.