Events in Charlottesville today

At Ix, a producer-only farmers market puts farms and local foods first, standing as the largest independent market of its kind in Charlottesville. SNAP is accepted, and Virginia Fresh Match offers additional buying power for fresh fruits and vegetables. The market is managed by the nonprofit Market Central.

An in-person peer support gathering created for dads, whether new to parenting or more experienced. Conversations are guided by fellow dads who understand the journey, and babies under one year are welcome. The setting is a community classroom on the third floor with mats, balls, pillows, and chairs available for comfort. Coffee and bagels will be provided. There is no registration, and attendance is free. For questions or to connect with a facilitator, reach out by email.

Marking its 53rd season, City Market continues to bring the community together around fresh, locally sourced food. Find in-season produce, meats raised nearby, baked treats, artisan-made goods, and a wide range of ready-to-eat dishes from local vendors. Sunrise Tostada makes its Charlottesville debut with fresh flavors and a new take on familiar breakfast favorites, and the booth will offer complimentary Cheesecake Tostada samples while supplies last. Parking is available at the Water Street garage, with the first hour free.

Saturday Stories & More! at Crozet Library features an interactive, 30-minute storytime for children ages 2 to 5 attending with a caregiver. Attendee registration is requested, though walk-ins are welcome.

Take a free backstage tour that traces The Paramount’s story from its 1931 beginnings through decades of community engagement, from the Great Depression to its celebrated reopening. Explore the visionaries who built it, the grandeur of classic movie‑palace design, and insights from the two year restoration. Step behind the curtain to see a backstage wall filled with hundreds of artist autographs, known as the Wall of Fame. Admission is free, and the tour lasts about an hour. Due to limited capacity, advance reservations are strongly recommended. The schedule may change. For cancellations or changes to your party, contact the Box Office at 434-979-1333 or boxoffice@theparamount.net. Private group tours can be arranged by appointment for a small fee by calling 434-293-1001.

New Dominion Bookshop hosts a weekly Storytime featuring a mix of new picture books and timeless favorites. The shop’s Storytime Leader guides the session and reads a rotating selection throughout the hour, so late arrivals can still take part. The program runs regardless of the weather. It is suitable for all ages, and friends are welcome.

Verdi’s Egyptian drama comes to life in a 2025 Met performance with soprano Angel Blue in the title role, matched against mezzo-soprano Judit Kutasi as the royal rival Amneris. Tenor Piotr Beczała appears as the warrior Radamès, and baritone Quinn Kelsey portrays Amonasro, the king of Ethiopia. Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts a sweeping new production by Tony Award winner Michael Mayer that immerses audiences in ancient Egypt, with intricate projections and vivid animations that evoke towering pyramids and golden tombs.

A summer social and fundraiser at Hazy Mountain Vineyards & Brewery benefits Ride With Pride, a local non-profit adaptive horsemanship program. The event is family friendly and welcoming to individuals with special needs, supporting services for people with intellectual, physical, and emotional challenges. Proceeds help Ride With Pride continue its long-standing positive impact in the community.

Catch The Pollocks live at Albemarle CiderWorks on Saturday, Aug 8. Doors and ticketing details are available through the ticket link shown on the page.

Join expert mixologists for a one-hour Gin Classics & Botanical Pairing masterclass where you’ll explore the history of gin and cocktails, then learn how to craft cocktails from selecting ingredients to mixing and garnishing. This is an interactive, in-person session and tickets include gratuity plus tax. Participants must be 21+.

The Gospel Explosion Community Concert returns to the Historic Jefferson School for an evening of praise, uplifting music, and shared community spirit. This edition honors 30 years of Charlottesville Abundant Life Ministries in the Prospect Avenue community, welcoming neighbors, churches, families, and friends from across the city and beyond. The program features headliner Ruby & Da Girlz, Harry Bryant & The VA Boyz appearing for the third year in a row, the North River Baptist Church Choir, and Jadiss, a Charlottesville Christian rap artist making a stage debut. More than a performance, the event supports Abundant Life’s community-centered work that empowers families through the purchase of tickets, sponsorships, and meals. Tickets are $15 and available on Eventbrite, and charitable donations are encouraged.

Corey Harris Band appears on the Rivanna Roots stage at Rivanna River Company, with an opening set from Jen Tal, for a riverside evening of music, food, beverages, and community. Corey Harris is a guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, and bandleader who has staked out a singular place in contemporary blues, drawing on early days performing in New Orleans and a formative year in Cameroon to blend traditional acoustic blues with elements of reggae, soul, rock, and West African music. Known for a commanding voice and deft guitar work, he brings both fresh takes on blues standards and original songs that balance heritage with forward motion in American roots music. Charlottesville based rhythm guitarist, songwriter, and award winning vocalist Jen Tal sets the tone with a sound that intertwines soul, R&B, and jazz, offering original compositions and inventive mashups of familiar tunes, delivered with authenticity and a strong connection to listeners. Food will be available from The Pie Guy and Arepas on Wheels, with beverages featured from Random Row Brewing Company, Potter’s Craft Cider, and Eastwood Farm and Winery, and artist hospitality supported by Hogwaller Brewing. Support for Rivanna Roots 2026 is provided by Sun Tribe, Martin Horn, NOLA Builds, The Nature Conservancy of Virginia, Alloy Architecture & Construction, Piedmont Paint & Finish, Bottle House, Woodard Properties, Mountaintop, Montessori, WNRN, and C-ville Weekly.

Slate River Band brings decades of classic country to Pro Re Nata Brewpub & Music Hall in a free show. Formed in 1989 by Michelle and Nick Nixon with Buddy Amos and revived in 2018 with their son, Trace, the group blends tight family harmonies with a sound that nods to the 1990s. Expect a mix of heartfelt ballads and toe-tapping, two-step ready tunes, drawing from both originals and covers with a touch of bluegrass. Early lineups featured Trace, Michelle, and Nick alongside the late Mike Sharp on dobro, Steve Easter on bass, and Morgan Easter on keys. The band now features long-time members Craig Lokey on drums, Eddie Shifflett on guitar and mandolin, and Randy Cook on steel guitar. Michelle Nixon’s career includes Virginia Folk Music Association female vocalist awards, SPBGMA Female Vocalist of the Year, and contributions to award-winning Daughters of Bluegrass recordings, while Nick Nixon has championed classic country throughout his career and earned recognition in national competitions. Arriving ahead of showtime helps with seating, and dinner is available from Hops Kitchen at PRN. This performance is supported by Rod Phillips of Dogwood Realty Group, with PRN Music & Media by Brian Combs of Gaslight BC Media.

John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd bring Jake and Elwood Blues to life in a music-fueled comedy about two brothers seeking redemption with no cash but a case packed with soul. The story features show-stopping turns by Ray Charles, James Brown, Aretha Franklin, and Cab Calloway, all in an action-charged production from director John Landis. It delivers sharp humor, driving rhythm, and memorable performances.

Watch the classic musical comedy The Blues Brothers on the big screen at Paramount On Screen. Follow Jake and Elwood Blues as they hit the road in search of redemption, with plenty of iconic music and show-stopping performances. The screening runs from evening into the night.

Josh Mayo will bring his beautiful music and one-of-a-kind voice to The Bebedero. Come enjoy a live performance designed to lift the mood and soothe whatever ails you.

Starr Hill Market is making a return. Set a reminder so you do not miss it.

Families from Albemarle and nearby counties are invited to a community celebration of education with Albemarle Foundation for Education and Albemarle County Public Schools. The event focuses on helping every student start the year prepared, offering free backpacks, school supplies, physicals, immunizations, and more. Attendees can connect with schools, community partners, and other resources to support student success. The afternoon also includes activities, music, food, games, and prizes for a fun way to unwind before the new school year.

Experience To Kill a Mockingbird on the big screen as part of Paramount On Screen. Based on the classic story, Scout and Jem follow the events in their Alabama hometown, including Atticus Finch’s defense of Tom Robinson and the trial’s impact on their community. The screening runs from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Drama Day Camp is a K-6 program where kids can jump into improv, musical theater, dance, arts and crafts, monologues and storytelling, plus an open mic and more. The camp runs with supervised hours from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Campers should bring a lunch and two snacks (one for the morning and one for the afternoon), along with a labeled water bottle, and wear comfortable clothes for moving around. Costumes are allowed, but children should wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, and they should not bring glass, food that needs heating, toys, or electronics. If a camper needs to call home, they’ll use the office phone instead of a personal cell phone.

Step into a world where stories leap from the page and imaginations expand with every turn. Each tale carries listeners through whimsical realms filled with chatty animals, courageous characters, and playful surprises that spark kids’ creativity and bring out the giggles. Bring a favorite stuffed companion to share in the adventure.

Step into a living museum of fun at Decades Arcade, featuring 127 games that span from the 1950s to this year. Play 37 pinball machines and 90 video games, plus a full-size air hockey table and two skeeball games. All machines are set to free play, so one entry fee covers everything. Admission is $12 per person for a two hour pass or $17 per person for an all day pass. Drinks are allowed inside if kept in cupholders or on the floor, and alcohol is not permitted. Capacity is limited to 100 people and entry is walk-in. The arcade’s website lists the full game lineup, answers common questions, shows a live headcount so you can see how full it is, and offers party room rentals for small groups during public hours.

Freshly made masa is hand pressed into corn tortillas and shaped into pupusas, all prepared on site.

100 Years Strong: A Legacy Run celebrates the 100th Anniversary of Jefferson School and a century of impact, resilience, and community. For generations, the school has served as a place of learning, opportunity, connection, and hope, a gathering space in challenging times, and the foundation for countless lives. Organized by the Jefferson School Foundation in partnership with Prolyfyck Run Creww and Soul of Cville, this community celebration honors the people, relationships, and memories that have shaped Jefferson School while inspiring the next generation. The event features community recognition, music, and fellowship, along with a celebratory run and walk that symbolize both the journey of those who came before and the path still being built together. It is an opportunity for alumni, former staff, program participants, event attendees, partners, and anyone who found community there to reflect on shared stories and the spirit that has made Jefferson School endure for 100 years.

Learn the official International Zouk Day choreography this summer in a friendly session that prepares dancers for a global flash mob. This marks a fifth consecutive year of participation in International Zouk Day. The session includes a choreography class, followed by a relaxed practica and social that welcomes everyone, whether or not they take part in the class. Participation in the choreography segment is open to students of the intermediate class, those who attended at least 10 of 13 classes in the beginner series, or dancers who obtain instructor approval by the stated deadline. Admission is $5, payable in cash or via Venmo. Please wear clean, soft-soled dance shoes that will not mark the floor, though socks or bare feet are also fine. For the well-being of the community, please stay home if you are feeling sick.

Every Tuesday brings tasty deals at Brazos Tacos and Brazos Taco Bar. Featured tacos are priced at $2.50, and every taco gets a $1 discount. Chips and salsa are complimentary, and Happy Hour specials are available, so there are plenty of ways to save while enjoying your favorites.

Learn practical ways to care for others without losing sight of your own well-being. This lunch and learn at Brooks Family YMCA offers a presentation on handling the emotional load of caregiving, recognizing and easing rising stress, and seeking help without guilt. It also shares how to arrange respite care, build a small and reliable support network, and locate resources that help you stay grounded, connected, and prepared for the ongoing responsibilities of caregiving.

Put your knowledge to the test at a trivia night hosted by FIREFLY. Teams of two to six players compete with no cost to participate, aiming for prizes such as gift cards and pint glasses, along with bragging rights. Depending on the weather, the competition may take place indoors or outside. Reservations are recommended by calling 434-202-1050.

Tailored for toddlers, this yoga and movement program fosters physical well-being and builds tools for emotional self-regulation through mindfulness, gentle stretching, simple games, and playful activities. It is led by Programs and Administrative Coordinator Emily Pearcy, a certified 95-hour registered children's yoga teacher. She has four years of experience teaching children from infancy through age 13 and earned her certification through Kidding Around Yoga, a program recognized by Yoga Alliance.

This walk-in hiring event features open interviews for a variety of company-wide positions. Job seekers of all backgrounds are welcome, including those exploring entry-level roles, experienced professionals, and individuals considering a career transition. For questions, call 434-465-6180.

An open studio style cake decorating session offers a relaxed, creative pause. This self-guided experience includes everything needed to design and embellish a mini sheet cake, with a cake in your choice of three flavors, two piping bags with different tips and two colors of buttercream, practice piping sheets, and an assortment of shapes, letters, and tools for outlining designs. Add delicate details with all-natural sprinkles and tweezers to embroider your cake. A complimentary sweet treat and beverage are included.

Enjoy an open studio-style cake decorating session where you create a mini wedding cake at your own pace. Each session includes a 4-inch, three-tier Golden Vanilla cake, buttercream for piping, practice sheets to build confidence, a selection of fresh botanicals and dried edible flowers for decoration, and all-natural sprinkles for finishing touches. A sweet-treat tower and complimentary beverages, including coffee, tea, espresso, and Spindrift, are also provided. The experience lasts about 45 minutes, is recommended for ages 8 and up, and accommodates groups of up to six. For larger parties, please email hello@cakebloom.com in advance to confirm availability.

Farmers in the Park is a lively, producer-only marketplace featuring local farmers, food vendors, and artisans. Browse fresh, seasonal produce, enjoy prepared foods, and discover handmade goods while supporting the community. Turn a quick shopping trip into an afternoon in the park with amenities close by. Spend time at the playground, practice in the batting cage, use the tennis courts, or take a swing at the Meadowcreek Golf Course driving range. Whether stocking up on weekly groceries, grabbing dinner, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it makes for a relaxed midweek outing.

This free rooftop community lift is followed by mocktails and a social hour provided by Mockingbird Restaurant. People of all experience levels are welcome. Founded by physicians, The Strength Initiative is a nonprofit focused on making strength training accessible for every woman through pay-what-you-can small group sessions, wellness workshops, and community events. The event supports a welcoming community where women lift weights.

This community walk covers 1.5 miles and welcomes participants of all paces. It is weather dependent, and will be canceled if conditions are inclement.

New to swing dancing, looking to refresh your steps, or interested in trying a different dance role? This beginner-focused lesson is designed for you. No partner or previous experience is required. The session includes a brief check-in, a guided beginner class, and a social dance afterward to practice new moves and meet fellow dancers. Admission is $10 at the door, with credit card payment preferred. Remember to bring a water bottle.

Keep growing beyond the basics with a monthly intermediate lesson series that builds on what you learned in beginner classes. Each month features a different focus, with updates posted on Facebook, Instagram, and Discord. Check in at the Front Porch, then head to the dance studio above Jack Brown's for the intermediate session, followed by a social where you can try out new steps and connect with fellow dancers. Entry is $10 at the door, and paying by credit card is preferred. Pack a water bottle. Direct any questions to the organizers.

Learn bachata in a focused class priced at $20 per person. Instruction here also covers salsa, merengue, rumba, cha cha, waltz, tango, foxtrot, hustle, and mambo, with advanced options including Viennese waltz, west coast swing, quickstep, paso doble, samba, jive, Argentine tango, and polka.

Caregivers can find connection and practical guidance at a supportive gathering led by JABA’s coordinator for caregiver support. Sessions include brief presentations and information sharing, followed by a group conversation that encourages exchanging experiences and tips. Participants often leave feeling more connected and better prepared for the responsibilities of caregiving. There is no cost to attend and everyone is welcome. Questions can be directed to 434-817-5244.

A relaxed creative setting invites connection and a chance to unwind. Bring a project you are working on or choose a prepared kit, and spend time making alongside other makers.

At Smooth Sailing Ballroom, learn the flowing movement of waltz and the expressive rhythms of rumba in a welcoming, music-filled setting. Two classes are offered, and you can take one or both. No partner or prior dance experience is required. Pricing is $25 for a single class or $40 for both. Beyond this focus, the studio’s programming covers a wide range of partner dances such as salsa, bachata, merengue, rumba, cha cha, waltz, tango, foxtrot, hustle, and mambo, with advanced options that include Viennese waltz, west coast swing, quickstep, paso doble, samba, jive, Argentine tango, and polka.

Join Bent Theatre for a night of unscripted improv at Potter’s Craft Cider. The ensemble will build scenes from audience suggestions, with no scripts or safety nets, so every show is different. The event is free to attend, and donations are appreciated. Adult content is possible.