Have an event to add to our calendar? Email us at christa@richmondmom.com! Don’t forget to check your Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver card for great savings at many local events and activities for kids and adults. Don’t have a card? No worries – download a copy here!
Visit our Richmond Summer Camps and Summer Fun 2013 links for a huge listing of camp options and things to do all summer long.
Now Through August
Fit4Moms is beginning a Mini Body Back session the week of July 8, 2013 for 4 weeks and another one in August for 4 weeks. They will resume the traditional 8 week sessions in the fall. You can register online and get more information regarding times and locations at www.richmond.fit4mom.com.
SUMMER KIDS CLUB every Thursday at 10am in Whole Foods Short Pump café. Just $3 per child. Kids do a fun craft and have a tasty snack. Craft will be hosted by the Children’s Museum of Richmond. Ages 3-8. Must pre-register. Call 364-4050.
Permanent Exhibit at the Science Museum
Boost! is OPEN, Signaling Beginning of Multi-Year Transformation for the Museum - Now Open! Celebrate with us as the Museum shares its biggest new, permanent exhibition in a decade and heralds the start of new, exciting things to come. Boost! challenges your perception of health and wellness in a way that is personalized and playful! Included with exhibit admission- $11 with $1 discounts for ages 4-12 and 60+. Free for members. Read our review here.
July 11 Through July 24, 2013
Arthur Ashe Birthday Celebration at the Science Museum of Virginia. Arthur Ashe Learning Center Inspirational Tour Arthur Ashe Birthday Celebration. Thursday, July 11-Wednesday, July 24, normal Museum hours Celebrate the 70th birthday of the late Arthur Ashe and discover the life and legacy of this Richmond native. The exhibit during Museum hours is free.
Now Through August 4
Brandon McKinney. Photo by Jay Paul
Virginia Repertory Theatre announces the opening of The Music Man at the Sara Belle and Neil November Theatre on Friday, June 28 with a Preview on June 27. The show runs through August 4, 2013. Read about it here.
Now Through August 18
SYMMETREES at The Science Museum of Virginia. Photographer and sculptor John Moser shares his unique view of fallen trees in Central Virginia forests by capturing their photos, then enhancing them so that the images take on a life of their own. Included with exhibit admission. Free for members.
Now Through September 6
Flight of the Butterflies – The Science Museum of Virginia: Read our Real Richmond Review.Migrate with hundreds of millions of Monarch butterflies across North America! Discover the hideaway of these magnificent creatures – a secret that was unlocked after 40 years of research by Dr. Fred Urquhart. Immerse yourself in this compelling adventure as you find a super generation of butterflies who miraculously travel to a new and remote destination. Experience firsthand the beauty of the migration cycle of butterflies spanning not only thousands of miles but generations!
To The Arctic at The Science Museum of Virginia: Through September 6, 2013. Venture across floating ice with a mother polar bear and her two cubs as you take an extraordinary journey into the Arctic. Discover the constant struggle for survival as they face natural predators and a rapidly changing climate. Travel with a herd of caribou to their calving ground and plunge into the ethereal underwater world of waltzing walruses! Gaze across an exquisite spectacle of sapphire white as you see hundreds of miles of snow-bound peaks in this breath-taking film!
Hubble. Journey through distant galaxies and accompany astronauts as they attempt the most difficult and important tasks in NASA’s history. $9 general admission, $5 for members.
Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk. Experience an exhilarating raft ride down the Colorado River with a team of explorers including renowned river advocate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and anthropologist Wade Davis. $9 general admission, $5 for members.
Now Through September 29
Robots + Us at The Science Museum. The Museum is open 9:30am-5pm on Memorial Day. What differentiates humans and robots? Explore what it means to be human by examining how lifelike machines emulate four major categories of human capabilities: moving, sensing, thinking and being. Take a closer look into robotics, computer science and biomedical engineering as you encounter interactive components, videos and much more! It’s here now through September 29, 2013!
Plan ahead: Opening July 12, 2013 Through August 1, 2013
Virginia Repertory Theatre celebrates the 60th anniversary of the founding of Barksdale Theatre at Hanover Tavern with a production of Steel Magnolias featuring an all-star cast. Click here for more information.
ALL WEEK
Take advantage of CMoR’s extended summer hours with fun activities each weeknight! All Summer Nights activities are free with museum admission. A variety of food options are available at the Seymour Snack Shack including frozen yogurt, popcorn, snow cones and a variety of hot and cold beverages like coffee and juice.
And don’t miss the annual Summer Series program, sponsored by the Goddard School, at the Children’s Museum’s Central location on select Saturdays – and it will now be offered at the Chesterfield location on select Sundays in July and August! All Summer Series events are free with museum admission.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Flying Squirrels Baseball Game at 12:05pm at The Diamond. Camp Day with $1 Hot Dogs.
Elements in Painting, Beginning Drawing and Creative Cultures. 1pm-4pm. Virginia Museum of Fine Arts – Kids Programs.
“Dig into Reading!” with Magician Rob Wescott. Rob Wescott is an award-winning professional comedic magician. He features popular children’s books promoted through wonderful magic, puppetry, and audience participation. Goochland, Montpelier, Cochrane Rockville, and Mechanicsville Libraries. See website for times and details.
Puppet Show at Clover Hill Library. Meet shy dinosaurs, magic fish and musical mosquitos in a fast-paced show by The Fischer Sundae Puppets full of stories and songs. Register: 804-751-CCPL.
Tuesday, July 9
Short Pump Pals Clubhouse Meeting at 11:00 a.m. Short Pump Mall Food Court. Free – Play ball with NUTZY! Enjoy a Meet and Greet with Richmond Flying Squirrels mascot NUTZY and learn all about the Richmond Flying Squirrels’ family fun events! PLUS enter to win a family four pack of tickets to a Richmond Flying Squirrels game!
Is this Art? Virginia Museum of Fine Arts – Preschool Programs at 10:00 a.m.
Dig Into Crafts at West End Library. Make a slithery snake for free. 5420 Patterson Avenue, Richmond, VA.
The Flying Squirrels at 1:30pm – 2:00 pm at Ginter Park Library. Come meet Nutzy the Squirrel and Parker the Rally Pig. There will be a special reader for this story time for ages 4 -10. Free event. 1200 Westbrook Avenue, Richmond, VA.
Your Youngster and You at All Fired Up. At any area location, get the perfect print from your infant or toddler and turn it into a summer-themed flip flop keepsake plate. Registration required: 804-355-3412.
Ready for School or Ready for Life at 7pm. Midlothian Library, 521 Coalfield Rd, Midlothian, VA 23114 United States Help your child foster skills that encourage them to be curious, engaged, independent, able to solve problems and work well with others. This workshop will break down what real world benchmarks are at the ages/ stages from toddler to high school. Lead by Sarah McDowell, Head of School at Montessori Center for the Child.
Wednesday, July 10
Wine Down at the Wine Loft to Benefits CJSTUF! Help us raise money for CJSTUF and have fun doing it.
Mommy & Me and Daddies Too. 10am-11:30am at Willow Lawn Plaza. A free morning out with live entertainment and activities designed to enhance parents´ interaction with their children. Stop by and say hello to Richmondmom.com too. This month enjoy fun with Rocknoceros.
Arthur Ashe Birthday Celebration at the Science Museum of Virginia. Arthur Ashe Learning Center Inspirational Tour Arthur Ashe Birthday Celebration – 6:30-9 pm. Tickets required for evening preview.
Busytown at the West End Library at 10am. Meet some favorites from Richard Scarry’s Busytown. This program is for children age three to six with an adult. Registration is required: 804-646-1877.
Bilingual Story Time at Meadowdale Library at 6:30pm-7:15pm. Parents and children can enjoy this read-aloud English/Spanish that grows language and literacy skills, paving the way for school preparedness. Repeats each week. ( – free. 4301 Meadowdale Blvd, Richmond, VA.
Diggity Dudes – Kid Rock. 11am on the Ha’Penny Stage, Dogwood Dell Park, City of Richmond. A special free children’s series performance on the Ha’Penny Stage at the 57th Festival of the Arts at Dogwood Dell.
“Dig into Reading!” with Magician Rob Wescott. Rob Wescott is an award-winning professional comedic magician. He features popular children’s books promoted through wonderful magic, puppetry, and audience participation. Hanover, Atlee, and Ashland Library. Visit website for times and details.
The Food Truck at Chesterfield Town Center. 6pm – 9pm.
Thursday, July 11
Slurpee Day at 7-11. Commemorate 7-Eleven’s 85th birthday with a free 7.11 ounce Slurpee between 11am and 7pm. Download the music and create your own Slurpee Dance to share with the world too!
SUMMER KIDS CLUB every Thursday at 10am in Whole Foods Short Pump café. Just $3 per child. Kids do a fun craft and have a tasty snack. Craft will be hosted by the Children’s Museum of Richmond. Ages 3-8. Must pre-register. Call 364-4050.
Annie the Musical at Central Library, 9501 Lori Road, Chesterfield, VA. 6:30pm-7:30pm. Can feisty little Annie escape her hard knock life in evil Miss Hannigan’s orphanage? Bring your camera for a meet and greet with the cast after the show. Register: 804-751-CCPL. (Free)
Just Duct Tape It! at Ashland Library, 201 S. Railroad Avenue, Ashland. 6-7pm. Ashland Library, 201 S. Railroad Ave., Ashland, VA 23005 6:00 p.m. Just Duct Tape It! Ages 11 & up. Make a cool craft out of duct tape. Snacks provided by the Friends of the Ashland Library. (804) 798-4072
Barnes & Noble Children’s Storytime. 10:30am. Barnes & Noble Store in Short Pump, 11640 W. Broad Street. For information call 804-360-0103.
Friday, July 12
Chick-Fil-A Cow Appreciation Day. Chick-fil-A will award a FREE Meal (breakfast, lunch or dinner) to any customer who comes to one of their 1,700+ restaurants fully dressed as a cow. Wear a partial costume and get a free entrée.
YUMMYFUN Workshop and Ice Cream at CMoR at 2pm. The FREE event is scheduled for Friday, July 12th, 2013 from 2pm – 3:30 pm. Breyers will sponsor the “YummyFun Workshop” at the Children’s Museum of Richmond. Clare will demo some of her most unique recipes for families.
Yard Sale to Benefit CARITAS. 10am-3pm. CARITAS Furniture Bank, 1125 E. Commerce Road Richmond, VA. Home furnishings, china cabinets, office furniture, collectibles, arts, frames, and more. All proceeds benefit CARITAS.
Build a Terrarium at Midlothian Library, 529 Coalfield Road, Midlothian, VA. 11am-noon. Free – Gardening experts from The Great Big Greenhouse will guide you and your family in this hands-on DIY project. Registration required: 804-751-CCPL.
Free Friday Morning Movie at Goochland Library. 10am-11:30am. 3075 River Road, Goochland, VA. Can feisty little Annie escape her hard knock life in evil Miss Hannigan’s orphanage? Bring your camera for a meet and greet with the cast after the show. Register: 804-751-CCPL.
Free Friday Family Fun at Cochrane Rockville Library, 16600 Pouncey Tract Road, Rockville, VA. 1pm. Friday Film Festival – See a great family movie on the big screen. Refreshments provided by the Friends of the Rockville Library. (804) 749-3146.
“Dig into Reading!” with Magician Rob Wescott. Rob Wescott is an award-winning professional comedic magician. He features popular children’s books promoted through wonderful magic, puppetry, and audience participation. King & Queen, Upper King William, and West Point Libraries. Check website for times.
Jazz Concert 8pm 9pm. Byrd Park – Dogwood Dell, 6000 South Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23220. Smooth jazz by David Esleck on the main stage.
Saturday, July 13
Annual Hanover Tomato Festival – 9am-4pm. Pole Green Park, Mechanicsville, Virginia. Take home original Hanover Tomatoes, purchase crafts from area artisans, obtain information on products and services from local businesses, enjoy entertainment and free children’s activities and games.
Yard Sale to Benefit CARITAS. 9am-1pm. CARITAS Furniture Bank, 1125 E. Commerce Road Richmond, VA. Home furnishings, china cabinets, office furniture, collectibles, arts, frames, and more. All proceeds benefit CARITAS.
Clean Air &Community Wellness Fair in RVA. 11am-3pm. Food, health information, screenings, and more.
Glam Party at Deep Run Park and Recreation Center (9900 Ridgefield Pkway, Richmond). Ages 4 – 6 and their moms will have a glitz and glam manicure with posh polish. Register: 804-501-7275.
Curious George Film Fest at Chester Library. 10:30am-4pm. George’s curiosity gets him into a series of predicaments in this endearing big-screen adaptation of the beloved books by Margaret and H.A. Rey. Additional screenings at 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. 11800 Centre Street, Chester, VA.
Down on the Farm Day at CMoR Central – Come on down to the farm! Make fun farm-themed projects, meet Miss Virginia, visit with a real live cow and baby calf and more. Free with museum admission.
Paws to R.E.A.D. at LaPrade Library at 10am-11:30am. 9000 Hull Street Road, Richmond. VA. Research shows that children who have difficulty reading in front of teachers, parents or peers feel comfortable reading to a dog. Register at the library or call 804-768-7941.
Twilight Paddle at Pocahontas State Park. 7pm-9pm. Canoe trip for families with children ages 6 and up. All equipment is provided. Register: 804-796-4255.
Sunset Paddle at Dutch Gap Conservation Area – 251 Henricus Park Road, Chesterfield, VA. 5:30pm. Paddle and float during the evening hours, observe wildlife and see the sunset and the moonrise. Ages 10 and up, all equipment is provided. 804-318-8735.
Jammin’ on the James at the Wilton House Museum. 6pm-8pm. Bring a picnic dinner for family-friendly jazz music on the scenic grass terrace. Enjoy walk-through tours of Wilton as well as face painting, games, and crafts for the kid
James River Splash and Dash at Belle Isle. 5pm-7pm. The James River Splash and Dash is a competitive race and flat water tube event. Participants run a trail course, grab a tube, paddle (with their hands) across a stretch of the James, and run their tube to the finish line. After the race, JRA hosts an after party! The Richmond event is located near Belle Isle with the after party located at Historic Tredegar.
Toy Story Pizza Planet Truck. Local Lowes Stores at 10:00 a.m. – The Pizza Planet Truck from Disney∙Pixar’s Toy Story has arrived! Bring your child to Lowe’s to build the iconic truck from the Toy Story films. Registration required. 10am.
Sunday, July 14
Down on the Farm Day at CMoR Chesterfield – Come on down to the farm! Make fun farm-themed projects, meet Miss Virginia, visit with a real live cow and baby calf and more. Free with museum admission.
Reenactment of the Second Virginia Convention.
Toy Story Pizza Planet Truck. Local Lowes Stores at 10:00 a.m. – The Pizza Planet Truck from Disney∙Pixar’s Toy Story has arrived! Bring your child to Lowe’s to build the iconic truck from the Toy Story films. Registration required. 2pm.
Clowning Around with Shakespeare. 4pm – A special children’s series performance on the Ha’Penny Stage at the 57th Festival of the Arts at Dogwood Dell.
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Join Richmondmom.com at this month’s Willow Lawn’s Mommy & Me and Daddy Too, which will be held outside at The Shops at Willow Lawn on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 from 10:00 am to 11:30 am, for some free outdoor fun with the kids! Kids will love the performance by Rocknoceros. It’s a free morning out with live entertainment and activities designed to enhance parents´ interaction with their children.
Be sure to stop by for some of the best FREE kids’ entertainment in all of Richmond! Become a member and enjoy all of the fun. And best of all – it’s FREE! Click here for information.
MOMMY & ME (And Daddy Too!)
2nd Wednesday of Each Month
10:00am–11:30am
Willow Lawn Plaza
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Nowhere else will you find a more detailed and unique listing of family-friendly summer activities! Some are good ol’ Richmond stand-bys that are not to be missed, and many others are brand new and offer chances for you and your kids to have some new experiences this summer. You may actually get those kids to admit that they’re not bored!
**Many of these activities are free, as we try to help you find ways to keep busy this summer without breaking the bank, and the rest are super cheap or just plain cool. (Zip lining in Williamsburg, anyone?!)**
We’ll constantly be adding to the list, so check back often, and if you have any to suggest, please let us know! (And if it’s camps you’re looking for, don’t worry we’ve got you covered there, too. Click here for a great list of Richmond summer camps for kids!)
All Fired Up
Richmond’s original paint your ceramics studio – also offering fun special summer projects and summer camps for kids. Locations in Carytown, Midlothian and Short Pump.
AMF Summer Unplugged (FREE)
Free bowling for kids 7 days a week through September 2, 2013. And special discounted prices for bowling for 16 and up too! Then enjoy a kid’s combo meal for just $3.29 per person.
Anthem Lemon-Aid (FREE)
July 19th through the 21st – Put the squeeze on childhood cancer! Host a LemonAid stand and raise funds for Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. Sign up online at www.anthemlemonaid.com. Participation is FREE!
Barnes and Noble’s Summer Offerings (FREE)
Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program - It’s free and kids get a free book when they participate!
Barnes & Noble Kids’ Club – Free to join, the Kids Club offers 30% off list price on any one kids’ book for toy for your children. $5 reward for every $100 you spend on kids’ stuff online and in stores. FREE cupcake from cafe for birthdays.
B&N Storytime: Check local stores for details on their FREE weekly kids’ story time. Some stores also host a free American Girl Club!
Brickz 4 Kidz
Check their site for classes and programs for preschoolers and older kids that teach architecture, engineering and technology concepts with Lego bricks.
Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA (FREE)
Preschool kids ages 3-5 who are also Virginia residents can enjoy FREE unlimited admission to Busch Gardens and Water Country USA through September 2, 2013. Visit site for registration information.
Cartwheels and Coffee
Beat the heat with some coffee for you and free play for the kids. There’s a special corner for the littlest ones, and two big play areas for the toddlers and preschoolers. Special events such as Story Time and Move With Me are hosted throughout the week and free with admission to this Carytown play area. ($5 per child, $4 additional child(ren).
Chesterfield County Parks and Recreation (FREE)
Plenty of free activities throughout the summer and some great volunteering opportunities for kids.
The Children’s Theatre of Virginia
The Children’s Theatre of Virginia’s season includes some great summer shows! The Music Man will be playing at the November Theatre at Virginia Rep Center from June 8th – August 4th, and Richard Scarry’s Busytown will be at the Willow Lawn Theatre July 5th – July 28th.
Children’s Museum of Richmond
CMoR has some fun events planned for the kids this summer:
Target Family Night: Visit CMoR for just $1 every third Friday through July from 5:00pm – 7:30 pm.
CMoR’s annual Summer Series program also returns to the Central location on select Saturdays and will now be offered at the Chesterfield location on select Sundays in July and August! All Summer Series events are free with museum admission. And don’t miss Summer Nights at CMoR Central!
Club Mom at Chesterfield Town Center (FREE)
Bring the kids out to Club Mom on the first Tuesday of every month in the Food Court from 9-11 a.m. for great entertainment for the kids and fun giveaways for the adults. Free breakfast for children 12 years or younger.
Farmer’s Markets around the city (FREE)
Support our local farms! Many markets offer free samples, entertainment, and lots of fun for kids and adults. It’s a festive way to spend a couple of hours and check things off your grocery list!
Flying Squirrels’ Squirrel Tail Kids Club (FREE)
Squirrel Tails is the Richmond Flying Squirrels FREE Kids Club for all kids 14 & under! Kids Club members enjoy free Sunday games throughout the season (see website for dates), eat free on Sundays, and receive special giveaways just for being a member!
Go Ape
This Williamsburg adventure park opened Treetop Junior in 2013, a fun-filled experience of canopy exploring, trail blazing and obstacles for all to enjoy. Kids ages 6-12 can negotiate crossings and finish on a high (literally) with two awesome zip lines!
Hanover County Parks and Recreation (FREE)
Hanover County offers free family events throughout the season including Family Movie Nights, Family Fishing Day and the Hanover Tomato Festival, which will be celebrating its 35th year!
Click here to learn more about Hanover’s parks. http://www.co.hanover.va.us/parksrec/parkinfo.htm
Henrico County Parks (FREE)
Great parks like Deep Run Park, Dorey Park, and Three Lakes where there are nature trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and lots more. Crump Park/Meadow Farm Museum has an historic house open for tours at various times throughout the week, and they have animals for the kids to enjoy – they offer lots of outdoor fun with plenty of room to run and play.
Henrico County Parks and Recreation (FREE)
Special summer events including puppet shows, magicians, musicians and theatre troupes are offered at facilities and parks throughout the county, see site for details. And don’t miss the free Open Gym for ages 10 and up. All skill levels are invited to play pickleball—a fun blend of tennis, table tennis, and badminton! The sport is played using a paddle and plastic wiffle ball on a badminton-sized court. Equipment provided. Tuesdays 5:30-8:30 p.m. Moody Middle School Tennis Courts. Mon & Wed 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sandston Recreation Area Tennis Courts.
Henricus Historical Park in Chesterfield County (FREE)
Fun events for all ages.The recreated 1611 Citie of Henricus, an outdoor living history museum with 12 recreated colonial structures, demonstrates history through “hands-on” encounters with period dressed historical interpreters. Visitors interact with interpreters during which time visitors may be asked to assist with cooking, blacksmithing, planting or harvesting. Visitors may even be asked to join the Militia! Be ready for an exciting and provocative experience in living history! Events all summer.
Home Depot Kids Workshops (FREE)
FREE hands-on workshops designed for children ages 5 – 12 offered the 1st Saturday of every month at area Home Depot stores between 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Jamestown Settlement
This museum of 17th century Virginia history explores America’s first permanent English colony. See the replicas of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia in 1607. Other highlights include the colonists’ fort and Powhatan village. Kids will enjoy this fun tour of the “old days” – be sure and take a picnic to enjoy right by the waterside. See site for admission details.
James River Park (FREE)
Enjoy hiking, canoeing, biking, picnicking, birdwatching, photography, and many more activities – create your own fun!
Jumpology
Jump around on over 8,000 square feet of connected, world-class trampolines. Our trampoline field features over 50 trampolines, the famous angled wall trampolines and a series of launching decks of different heights. Open jump time slots on Friday and Saturday book up fast! Please call 2-4 days in advance to pre-purchase your ticket and reserve your flight time. Special jump time pricing for ages 6 & under! $8.00 per child and one accompanying adult jumps free. Check site for days and times.
Kangaroo Jac’s
For inflatable play, visit Kangaroo Jac’s, where walk-in play is always available for kids with a little extra energy. Available every day of the week, no need to call ahead. For a flat fee, stay and play all day! Visit site for fees and locations.
Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
Lewis Ginter has several different offerings for kids this summer, including Garden Explorations where kids and adults can enjoy story time and a fun-filled adventure while exploring different areas of the garden, the Summer Survival Series which combines outdoor adventure, teamwork and nature awareness to teach families basic survival skills for the outdoors, Drop In and Dig, the Garden Art Studio and of course the water play area. See website for full schedules and fees.
Local Library activities and reading programs (FREE)
Check your local library for free children’s crafts and book club events occurring throughout the summer and also get information about summer reading programs.
Chesterfield County Public Library
Richmond Public Library
Henrico County Public Library
Pamumkey Regional Library System, serving Hanover, Goochland, King & Queen and King William
New Kent Heritage Public Library
Petersburg Public Library System
Lowes Build and Grow Kids Clinics (FREE)
This free clinic is available at select stores on various Saturdays at 10am. Build a wooden project and get a free apron, goggles, patch and more. Check site for details and to register.
Maymont Park (FREE, donations warmly accepted)
Lots of fun, outdoor activities, a petting zoo, trails, and more. Visits are free or have a recommended fee of $2-$5. The Children’s Farm Barn is a major attraction and hit with the young ones. Bring a picnic lunch and make a day of it!
Metro Richmond Zoo
Home to over 1,500 animals representing 148 species from around the world, the Metro Richmond Zoo offers a variety of experiences that will make your visit memorable. Visit giraffe up close, and let these gentle giants eat right out of your hand! Not many zoos offer this unique experience! Hop aboard the Safari Train and take a fifteen minute ride into the African Savannah. Get up close and personal with free-ranging animals while receiving a guided tour. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day!
Mommy & Me (and Daddies Too!) at The Shops at Willow Lawn (FREE)
This FREE monthly event features fun entertainment (which this summer will be provided by the Diggity Dudes and Rocknoceros!), giveaways and interactive crafts for the kids, and lots of helpful information about area kids’ services for parents. Richmondmom.com is thrilled to be a part of this fun event each month!
National Battlefield Park (FREE)
Richmond was the scene of a number of battles during the Civil War, and National Battlefield Park encompasses 13 separate sites with four visitor centers along an 80 mile route through the City of Richmond, and Henrico, Hanover and Chesterfield counties. Park admission is free. Visitor centers at Tredegar Iron Works (fee), Chimborazo and Cold Harbor are open daily. Visitor centers at Glendale and Fort Harrison are open daily June through August.
Old Time Music Jams at Rockwood Park (FREE)
Bring a chair and don’t hesitate to tap your feet at this monthly informal gathering of musicians playing old timey instruments on the porch at the nature center. Enjoy tunes from yesterday played on fiddle, bass, mountain dulcimer, banjo, autoharp, guitar and many more. Bring your own instrument and join in the fun! Free for the whole family, donations to the nature center warmly accepted. Held outdoors on the front porch or inside the classroom in the event of inclement weather. Fourth Tuesday of every month, 7 p.m. to 9:30 pm. Call 674-1629 with questions.
Pocahontas State Park (FREE)
Just 20 miles from downtown Richmond, Pocahontas offers boating, picnicking, camping, camping cabins, hiking, and interpretive and environmental education programs. The Aquatic Center offers seasonal water-based activities for the entire family.
Pottery Barn Book Club (FREE)
Stop by the store for story time every Tuesday from 11 – 11:30 a.m. (check with store near you to verify actual times). Members receive special Book Club Passport and special gift if they attend 5 times. And don’t forget the PBK Summer Reading Challenge! From now through August 26th, read all the award-winning books on one of our recommended lists and qualify for fun prizes.
Regency Square Mall Kids World (FREE)
The first Thursday of every month Kids World meets at the Fit & Fun Play Area for a fun activity or craft. Moms will enjoy special discounts, free samples and more!
Richmond SPCA
The Richmond SPCA is a great place for kids to learn the enjoyment of cats and dogs. Volunteer opportunities are available as well for high school students
Rockwood Nature Center (FREE)
Visit the Center’s live snake, turtle, and honeybee exhibits to learn more about the plants and animals that live in the fields, forests, pond, and marshes of Rockwood Park. Take an archery lesson, join a nature club, learn about geocaching, follow a letterboxing trail, learn map and compass navigation, and much more! Call 804.674.1629 with questions. Location: Rockwood Park, 3401 Courthouse Road (804) 674-1629. Summer Hours: (June 12-Sept. 2) Tuesday-Sunday, noon-5 p.m.
Science Museum of Virginia
From bugs to space and what’s inside human bodies … explore our world at the Science Museum of Virginia. The IMAX & Planetarium is the biggest in Virginia and puts the audience in the middle of all the action. This summer the IMAX presents “To the Arctic” and “Flight of the Butterflies”. Reasonable fees.
Short Pump Pals Club (FREE)
Pals Club members enjoy discounts to participating stores and extra-special birthday treats! And don’t miss the Short Pump Pals Clubhouse Meetings the 2nd Tuesday of every month at 11:00am in the Food Court for fun activities and entertainment.
Spirited Art
Each Friday during the summer, Spirited Art teams up with Bricks 4 Kids or All Fired Up to offer Kids Fun Fridays. Each Friday from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm kids ages 5 and up can unleash their inner artist! Fee is $35 per class, visit site for details.
Stony Point Fashion Park (FREE)
Bring the kids in their bathing suits and let them go crazy in the outdoor fountain. Also, check out the live music Thursday – Sunday afternoons, through September 2nd.
Sweet Spot
This adorable candy and soda shop located in West Broad Village hosts Candy Bingo Nights and book clubs throughout the year. Check out their site throughout the summer for event information.
The Nature Exhibit at Three Lakes Park (FREE)
Free to the public and fun for all ages, the exhibits in the Nature Center will introduce visitors to the plant and animal life native to the area and wildlife living in the wetlands and woodlands of the park. Summer hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Saturday & Sunday, noon-4:30 p.m.
Virginia Center Commons Mall Family Fun Carnival (FREE)
Kick off the summer at Virginia Center Commons on Saturday, June 29th from 12:00 pm to 3:00pm at the Family Fun Carnival. Beat the heat with tons of indoor activities including a bounce house, balloon animals and face painting, fun games and much more! Snack on popcorn and cotton candy and enter to win great prizes throughout the day! Free for Kidgits Members; $5 for Non-Kidgits Members.
Virginia Historical Society (FREE)
In addition to its ongoing entertaining and educational exhibitions, beginning Wednesday, August 1st, through Friday, August 31, the VHS will offer families the opportunity to participate in educator-led programs, craft activities, and group readings of historically-themed books. All programs are free and open to the public. Advance reservations are not required. August Afternoons takes place from 2:00-4:00 p.m. daily in the Carole M. and Marcus M. Weinstein Classroom.
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (FREE)
Admission to permanent collection galleries is always free. Different events and programs all summer so click here for details and don’t miss the delicious cafe while you’re there.
Volunteer Virginia (FREE)
Discover great opportunities for kids to volunteer and participate in fun activities at the same time. Also, visit our listing at this link of great volunteer positions for kids.
Metro Richmond Zoo.
Home to over 1,500 animals representing 148 species from around the world, the Metro Richmond Zoo offers a variety of optional experiences that will make your visit memorable. Visit our herd of giraffe up close, and let these gentle giants eat right out of your hand! Not many zoos offer this unique experience! Visit our herd of giraffe up close and let these gentle giants eat right out of your hand! Hop aboard the Safari Train and take a fifteen minute ride into the African Savannah. Get up close and personal with free-ranging animals while receiving a guided tour. Pack a picnic and enjoy the day!
MOVIES
Bow Tie Cinemas Movieland 17 at Boulevard Square (FREE)
Free kids summer film series, every Tuesday and Wednesday mornings from June 25th through August 21st. Doors open at 9am, show starts at 10am. Seating is limited to theater capacity, tickets issues on a first come, first served basis. See site for movie details.
Byrd Theatre
The Byrd offers lots of low-cost, family friendly movies all summer long for $1.99. Check the website for information.
Cinema Classics at the Henrico Theatre in Highland Springs
Enjoy popular kids’ movies Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer at Henrico Theatre in Highland Springs. Tickets are only $1 per person and can be purchased at the door. This summer’s offerings include The Princess Bride (June), Shrek (July), and Despicable Me (Aug). For more information call: 328-4491.
Goochland Drive-In
Nowhere else in RVA can you experience a good ol’ drive-in movie. And nowhere else can you take a whole family to the movies and spend so little! Tickets are $8.00 for adults and kids 12 and up, $3.50 for kids 4-11. All snack bar items are priced $3.75 and under. Movies offered are all new/current release, see site for schedule.
Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express
Moviegoers of all ages can climb aboard the Summer Movie Express to enjoy a great selection of films. During this 9-week festival, participating Regal Cinemas, United Artists and Edwards Theatres will offer selected G or PG rated movies for only a dollar on Tuesday and/or Wednesday mornings at 10:00. A portion of proceeds from the Summer Movie Express will be donated to the Will Rogers Institute. Check site for participating theatres and times.
SUMMER CONCERTS
Dogwood Dell (FREE)
Concerts in the amphitheater all summer long; 2013 schedule released in early June. Visit website for information.
Forest Hill Music in the Park (FREE)
Free evening summer concerts, see site for dates and schedule of bands.
Friday Cheers
A Richmond favorite, each Friday from 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at Brown’s Island. Tickets are $5 to $10 depending on the show, children under 12 are free. Season passes available. See site for band lineup and more information.
Henrico Concert Band and Henrico Community Band In The Park (FREE)
For all ages. The Henrico Concert Band and Henrico Community Band will each perform a series of three outdoor concerts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and spend a casual evening in the park listening to your favorite band music! In case of inclement weather, the concerts may be cancelled. There will be no rain dates. Information: 501-5859. Henrico Concert Band Mon, June 24, July 29, & Aug 26, 7 p.m. Dorey Park by the lake. Free. Henrico Community Band Thur, June 27, July 25, & Aug 29, 7 p.m. at Deep Run Park Nature Pavilion. Free.
Jammin’ on the James (FREE)
This free concert series on the grounds of the Wilton House Museum is great fun for all ages. Bring a picnic dinner and a lawn chair for family-friendly music on the scenic terrace overlooking the James River. Enjoy complimentary walk-through tours of Wilton as well as face-painting, games, and crafts for kids.
Short Pump Summer Concert Series (FREE)
The Summer Concert Series returns for its 10th season, beginning June 20th and continuing every Thursday evening (weather permitting) through August 22nd. Families are invited to enjoy FREE live music performed by local bands, great food, PRIZES and of course, fabulous shopping! Concerts begin at 6:00 PM and run until 8:00 PM in the Main Plaza.
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Join Richmondmom.com at this month’s Willow Lawn’s Mommy & Me, Wednesday, April 10th from 10:00am to 11:30 am for some fun, free, outdoor fun with the kids! There will be crafts and activities for the kids along with local entertainer Hope Harris. Our own Richmondmom.com Katie Mardigian will be there handing out Savvy Savers and treats for the kids.
As always, you’ll have the chance to win one of Kate Hall’s popular children’s books, Richmond Rocks! and The Spooky Sequel!
With the warm weather finally making an appearance, April’s Mommy & Me will be back outside in the pavilion of The Shops at Willow Lawn. Stop by for some of the best FREE kids’ entertainment in all of Richmond!
Mommy and Me is held the second Wednesday of each month from 10:00am – 11:30am and is great family fun for kids, moms, dads and grandparents, so join us each month at The Shops at Willow Lawn.
Don’t miss this FREE morning out with live entertainment and activities designed to enhance parent’s interaction with their children!
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Have an event to add to our calendar? Email us at kate@richmondmom.com!
Check out our contests for tickets to Richmond Kids Expo & Babies Too, and the Ringling Brothers Circus! And don’t miss our mega-listing of Richmond Summer Camp 2013 options for kids of all ages.
ALWAYS check dates, times and locations of events as they may change after posting here.
Don’t forget to check your Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver card for great savings at many local events and activities for kids and adults. Don’t have a card? No worries – download a copy here!
Ongoing
Beginning February 11!
After School Enrichment Programs at All Fired Up. Foster your child’s love of art while instilling practical skills with one of All Fired Up’s After School Programs.
February 11-16, 2013
Women Build Needs Volunteers to Build a House!
Through February 13, 2013
Reduced admission to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens for a “Winter Special”!
Mommy & Me at Willow Lawn from 10am-11:30am. Visit with Katie Mardigian at the Richmondmom.com table to pick up Savvy Saver cards and a sweet treat!
Through March 1
Rocky Mountain Express (film in IMAX®DOME) Through-Friday March 1 – Join in the epic adventure of building Canada’s first transcontinental railway as you are propelled on a steam train journey through the Canadian Rockies. $9 general admission, $5 for members.
Through March 10
No Two Alike: Snow Crystal Microphotography. Explore the work of physicist Kenneth G. Libbrecht which captures intricate details of snow crystals. Peruse snow facts find out the answer to the question “Is it true that no two snowflakes alike?” Included with exhibit admission.
Through April 30
Born to be Wild at IMAX Dome. Born to be Wild is an inspiring story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. This film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them — saving endangered species one life at a time.$9 general admission, $5 for members. Showing through April 30.
Through May 12, 2013
Raise the Roof at the Science Museum of Virginia. If walls could talk, what would they say? Explore buildings and structures in a new light as you discover the stories behind the structures through a variety of interactive experiences. Included with exhibit admission.
Through Monday June 3
They Call it Stormy Weather: How Artists See the Weather and the Seasons. Explore artists’ depictions of weather from thunderstorms on powerful, wild seas to sunny skies above spring fields. The photographic reproductions are on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Included with exhibit admission.
February 19-24, 2013
Mary Poppins at the Landmark Theatre.
This Week’s Events
Monday, February 11
Words That Work With Preschoolers (Parents of children 2-4 years). 6:30pm-8:30pm. Delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.
Member Monday Silver Diner at CMoR Short Pump from 11am-1pm.
Tuesday, February 12
FREE admission to CMoR Chesterfield for ‘Pit Stop’ Exhibit – get behind the wheel of a NASCAR race car and enjoy lots of NASCAR fun!
Bully DVD to be released.
Tuesday Trail Tales at CMoR Central. 10:30am.
Short Pump Pals Clubhouse Meeting with Hope Harris. FREE at 11am at Short Pump Mall. Independent children’s musician Hope Harris will be whipping up her own brand of theatrical musical fun!
Wednesday, February 13
Richmond Waldorf School Observation Day. 8:30am-10am. 1000 Westover Hills Boulevard, Richmond, VA23225. Come see Waldorf education in action while visiting various classrooms promptly at 8:30 AM. Parents will also have the opportunity to watch an informational DVD and time for conversations and questions. If this date does not suit your schedule, please contact the Admissions Counselor, Amy Holland at: aholland@richmondwaldorf.com for a private tour of the school. This event is for parents to attend only. Please register.
Fighters, Biters, Pushers & Smushers (Parents of children 1-3 years). 12:30pm-1:30pm. Delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.
Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! Get the Sillies Out! The Landmark. Featuring the one and only DJ Lance Rock, plus Muno, Foofa, Brobee, Toodee, and Plex, and of course, hip hop legend Biz Markie. Visit the website for show times and fees.
Thursday, February 14
Happy Valentine’s Day!
One Billion Rising to end violence against girls and women.
Spirited Art Valentine’s Day specials. Make plans to join us on the 14th for Girls’ Night Out with our brand new Carrie’s Cosmo painting, or reserve a spot for you & your sweetie (or just a friend!) for our Date Night class. View our calendar to see our kids’ classes, Create Dates, and Valentine’s Open Studio for the whole family!
Children’s Story Time: Toddlers and Preschoolers at Barnes & Noble Short Pump. Join each Thursday for our Children’s Storytime. On the third Thursday of each month, we’ll have a special visit from Seymour and the Children’s Museum.
Friday February 15 – Sunday February 17
The LEGO® KidsFest February 15-17 – More fun than you can imagine with LEGO bricks everywhere!
Friday, February 15
LiveSky: Light Pollution: Blinded by the Light. 6pm. Science Museum of Virginia. Discover why you’re blinded by the light if you’re in the city and trying to see the broad band of the Milky Way arching across a dark sky, as you find out about light pollution. $5, free for Museum members.
Parent’s Night Out for Valentine’s Day with AIM. Drop off the kids at AIM and head out for a romantic dinner to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Kids will enjoy obstacle courses, relay races, games, crafts, a movie, and a pizza dinner. All activities will be led by AIM Director Casey Royer and other staff. AIM students and non-AIM students are welcome, so spread the word! Email casey@artsinmotionda.com to reserve your child’s spot. Space for this event is limited, so be sure to email quickly!
Arena Racing. 7pm at the Richmond Coliseum. Drivers in ½ scale stock cars racing around high banked race track turning laps in UNDER 8 seconds flat while competing side-by-side–bumping, rubbing, flipping and racing in the Richmond Coliseum.
Target $1 Family Night. 5pm-7:30pm. Children’s Museum – Central. Bring the whole family to enjoy what The Children’s Museum has to offer from 5:00-7:30pm on the third Friday of every month for just $1 per person!
The LEGO® KidsFest February 15-17 – More fun than you can imagine with LEGO brick
Saturday, February 16
forty one gala: Noah’s Children, central Virginia’s only pediatric palliative care and hospice program, will host its annual gala February 16 at The Jefferson Hotel, starting at 7 p.m.
Stories at the Museum.The educator-led story times start at 11:00 a.m., and stories are selected based on each month’s theme. February is Black History Month, and the Stories at the Museum event on February 16, 2013, features Visiting Langston by Willie Perdomo.
Valentine’s Kids Night Out at Romp n’ Roll! Romp n’ Roll (all locations! 5-8pm) is happy to announce a special Kids Night Out event for children ages 2-5 years. It includes three hours of Romp n’ Roll fun, including the creation of a special Valentine art project. Kids will also be treated to a pizza dinner and plenty of gym and music time. This is the perfect opportunity to schedule a night out with your valentine while knowing your child is having a blast at Romp n’ Roll.
Great Backyard Bird Count at Pocahontas State Park from 9:30am-11:30am. Bird’s Eye View, Recreational Tree Climb with Riverside Outfitters. Registration required for tree climb, call 804-796-4255. The fee is $18/person.
Love Rox Half Marathon & 10K at Belle Isle at 10:00am.
Prevent Child Abuse Virginia’s 4th Annual BE MINE BALL from 7:30pm – 10:30pm at VMFA. Join friends and supporters of Prevent Child Abuse Virginia at its annual fundraising ball the weekend after Valentine’s Day.
Yoga is for Lovers at the Hippodrome Theater. All levels welcome.
Storyteller Donna Washington at the Meadowdale Library at 1:30pm. Let Brer Rabbit, Anasi the Spider, Brother Sun and many others take you on a rollicking romp through African and African-American stories with children’s book author and master storyteller Donna Washington
Phil Wiggins Performance. Workshop at 11am, Performance at 1pm. Children’s Museum – Central. Enjoy a special performances celebrating African American culture and history. Learn to play the harmonica and enjoy a performance with musician Phil Wiggins. Event is free with museum admission.
Arena Racing. 7 p.m. at the Richmond Coliseum – drivers in ½ scale stock cars racing around high banked race track turning laps in UNDER 8 seconds flat while competing side-by-side–bumping, rubbing, flipping and racing in the Richmond Coliseum.
The LEGO® KidsFest February 15-17 – More fun than you can imagine with LEGO brick
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