When it comes to Real Richmond Parents, no one is more real than Kim Newlen! Kim is the founder of Sweet Monday, a motivational speaker, and an author. She’s also a wife and mother and very busy Richmond parent!
LookBetterThanYouFeel
You may know Kim from a previous article related to her LookBetterThanYouFeel garment for women undergoing breast cancer. Kim battled breast cancer 9 years and and learned how difficult it is for women who have to deal with medical appointments, drains, and all types of uncomfortable things during treatment. That’s when she created the garment. After beating cancer, she continued to speak and entertain audiences all over the country with her humor and down-to-earth, practical tips to help women live a ‘sweet and simple’ life.
Sweet and Sad all at Once
Now Kim is once again battling breast cancer as she undergoes treatment at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas – participating in a clinical trial. Learning of her rare form of breast cancer with no known cure was a difficult day for Kim – and ironically, it came on the same day as her press release announcing her new book that was being published through Tyndale Momentum.
Sweetness and salty all at one time!
Kim, her daughter Kali, and husband Mark.
But just as Kim always does, she took in stride, looked UP, stayed positive, and pushed forward. She continues to promote her new book, The One Year Sweet & Simple Moments with God Devotional, in every way possible. She stays upbeat and inspires and encourages everyone else around her at MD Anderson and everyone who knows her is amazed at her strength, positive attitude, and ability to stay strong under such stressful circumstances.
Celebrating Kim’s Book
To celebrate the September release of Kim’s new book, there will be a Sweet September Sixteen book sale at Sweet Spot in Short Pump – on September 16, 2013! It’s from 11am – 2pm. You are invited to stop by to purchase a book or just say hello – and of course, enjoy some sweet delicious candy.
This book is a great holiday gift too – so you may want to bring your gift list with you. It offers inspiration – and lots of laughter and tears – to help women see the sweet and simple moments right in front of them every day of their lives. Join us as we celebrate this incredible woman who is a true Richmond Parent and Richmond author.
To learn more about Kim, visit her website. You can also follow her journey on Facebook and through Caringbridge.
UPDATE 9/18/13: Click here to read the reviews of Kim’s book signing in Houston and her Sweet September Sixteen Celebration at Sweet Spot!
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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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Have an event to add to our calendar? Email us at kate@richmondmom.com!
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
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.
Events This Week
Monday, February 18
President’s Day – many area schools are closed!
Monkey Joe’s birthday party with $5 admission all day and free pizza for the first 100 kids!
Tuesday, February 19
Freedom and Independence vs Rules and Boundaries (Parents of teens). From 6:30pm-8:30pm. Delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.
Wednesday, February 20
http://www.ringling.com
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Thursday, February 21
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Beyond Time Out (Parents of children 2-9 years). 6:30pm-8:30pm. Delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.
Friday, February 22
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
The 5th Annual READ: Art Show and Sale at the New Community School. 7pm – 10pm. Features over 100 regional and local artists, building community and literacy through art. Funds raised from the event support our specialized dyslexia remediation program & provide need-based scholarships.
Classic Tales with Mother Goose at Meadowdale Library. Join Mother Goose as she brings stories to life with audience participation and plush animal friends. This program is recommended for children aged 2-6 and their parents.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
2013 Orchid Show at Strange’s Garden Center & Florist. Enjoy over 600 orchids displayed in artfully designed exhibits with an Hawaiian theme. Vendors will be on hand offering orchid plants, art & supplies, and free lectures will be available throughout Saturday and Sunday. There will also be an art competition featuring original work from local artisans. Free admission.
37th Concert Ballet Repertory Gala. The event will be held at The Woman’s Club Auditorium, 211 East Franklin Street. You will enjoy wonderful dancing, live music, and scrumptious desserts! February 22 and 24th, 2013.
Book Club. Sweet Spot in Short Pump. The book selection for Sweet Spot’s February Book Club Meeting is The Van Gogh Cafe by Cynthia Rylant. Get your appetite ready for this adventure where anything can happen at The Van Gogh Cafe! Recommended for readers ages 8 and up at 6 pm.
Saturday, February 23
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
Big Hearts for Little Hands at South Hopewell Church of God in Hopewell. This is a fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU! There will be crafts and vendors such as Daisey Bows, Treasure Cakes, Scentsy, Tastefully Simple, etc. We want to raise as much money as possible for this amazing cause! Face painting for the kids. 2300 Bluefield Street, Hopewell, VA.
New Legacy Jazz Band. Performances at 11 am and 1 pm at the Children’s Museum – Central. Enjoy a special performances celebrating African American culture and history. Sit back and relax while listening from the past to the present of jazz music with the New Legacy Jazz Band. Event is free with museum admission.
Emily Hubbel Fundraiser to Beat Childhood Cancer.
Alhadji Pappa Susso and Bala Kouyate Performance. Children’s Museum – Chesterfield. Enjoy a special performances celebrating African American culture and history. Listen to authentic African instrumentals with performances by Alhadji Pappa Susso and Bala Kouyate. Event is free with museum admission.
Kids Expo & Babies Too returns to Richmond! Stop by and say hello to us at Richmondmom.com booth!
2013 Orchid Show at Strange’s Garden Center & Florist. Enjoy over 600 orchids displayed in artfully designed exhibits with an Hawaiian theme. Vendors will be on hand offering orchid plants, art & supplies, and free lectures will be available throughout Saturday and Sunday. There will also be an art competition featuring original work from local artisans. Free admission.
Handbags for Hope.Tickets are on sale for this unique event, featuring live and silent auctions of hundreds of handbags. New and gently used handbags from top designers will be available. Don’t miss out, only 200 tickets are available!
Breathe Easy Salt Spa Open House in Midlothian at Westchester Commons.
Day of Dance with HCA for Heart Health Month. Find a location near you!
Simon Kidgits Club at Virginia Center Commons is hosting its free annual Book Blast event and inviting families to participate and be inspired to read together at home and beyond. Simon Kidgits Club’s Book Blast is offering an assortment of fun book-based activities to ultimately help kids reap the many benefits of reading. Come join the fun from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the Sears Court with special readings, fun games and giveaways along with a special appearance by Curious George. Kidgits members will receive a free Library Gift Tote. Not a member, visit the Guest Services at Virginia Center Commons website for more details.
Monster Jam®, featuring Grave Digger – Lowe’s Build and Grow Program is at 10 a.m. Your child will love the Monster Jam® kit featuring Grave Digger®! Bring them to Lowe’s this weekend to get closer than ever to one of their favorite Monster Jam superstars. Registration required but it’s FREE!
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Zest Fest 2013 with FeedMore. Join us for an evening to remember! Virginia wines and craft brewers, top local chefs and caterers, and exciting auction prizes all for a great cause of feeding our neighbors in need! New this year, Zest Fest is part of the Virginia Wine Expo’s schedule of events. 6-10pm. Black tie optional.
Sunday, February 24
Help Connor Cure Cancer – a family night out at Belle Vie restaurant to raise money for pediatric cancer research. Kids welcome and lots of food, fun, raffles, and more.
37th Concert Ballet Repertory Gala. The event will be held at The Woman’s Club Auditorium, 211 East Franklin Street. You will enjoy wonderful dancing, live music, and scrumptious desserts! February 22 and 24th, 2013.
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24
“Brain Game: Big Bad Bear” will be aired on Green Screen Adventures on Sunday, February 24 at 8:00 a.m. on Me-TV. Me-TV can be seen on WWBT, Channel 12.2. Green Screen Adventures is featuring the work submitted by Caroline Moore from West End Montessori School located in Richmond, Virginia.
2013 Orchid Show at Strange’s Garden Center & Florist. Enjoy over 600 orchids displayed in artfully designed exhibits with an Hawaiian theme. Vendors will be on hand offering orchid plants, art & supplies, and free lectures will be available throughout Saturday and Sunday. There will also be an art competition featuring original work from local artisans. Free admission.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Community Wide Purim Carnival. There will be tons of fun for the whole family at The Richmond Community Purim Carnival on Sunday, February 24. Held at the Weinstein JCC from 12:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m., the afternoon will be filled with a variety of fun activities, including carnival games, face painting, inflatables, clowns, carnival food, and much more. The Weinstein JCC is located at 5403 Monument Ave.
February is a crazy month with warm days, ice, warm days, snow, warm days, and mixed snow/rain!
But don’t let that fool you – Spring Break is just around the corner. Spirited Art has some fantastic new classes for kids to enjoy during Spring Break took. Check out these options:
March 13: 10am-12noon
Pop Art Peeps Kids Class for ages 5+
March 14: 10am-12 noon
Surfboard Kids Class for ages 5+
April 2: 10 am-12 noon
Pop Art Peeps Kids Class for ages 5+
April 3: 10am-2pm
Kids age 5+ get to come out for the Spring Break 4 Hour Day Camp where they will start at Sweet Spot and play games and get to take home candy treats. They will then be walked to All Fired Up where they will make their own Tic Tac Toe Borards and finish at Spirited Art painting “Surfboards” and enjoying a Pizza Lunch from Ledo’s.
April 4: 10am-2pm
A fun combo class with All Fired Up and Sweet Spot from 10am-2pm for ages 5+ – Kids get to come out for this 4 hour Day Camp at Sweet Spot, All Fired Up and Spirited Art. Kids will start at Sweet Spot where they will play games and get a take home bag of sweets. They will then be walked to All Fired Up and make Tic Tac Toe boards. They will be walked to Spirited Art where they will enjoy a pizza lunch from Ledo’s and paint Sweet Tweets.
April 5: 9am-1pm
Another great combo class with Bricks 4 Kids and Master Yi’s Tae Kwon Do from 9am-1pm for ages 5+ – Come on over for this unique 4 hour Spring Break Class at Spirited Art. Perfect for both the mind and body! Kids will start at Master Yi’s Tae Kwon Do (around the corner from Spirited Art next to Ledo’s Pizza) and enjoy an hour with Master Yi as he works on body focus and mind focus as it pertains to the basics of Tae Kwon Do. The kids will then be walked from Master Yi’s to Spirited Art to paint “Ninja” and enjoy a pizza lunch from Ledo’s. Bricks 4 Kidz will come to the studio to work with the kids on building Ninjago Lego sets. Kids get to take home a Lego – mini figure after their building session.
Spirited Art is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com
Emma and Connor with some of their art projects.
Do you remember the fantastic Holiday Arts Mash Up for kids during the holidays? It was a threesome of art, food, and fun for the kids:
- The first stop was at Sweet Spot Candy where kids decorated a gingerbread house.
- Then they headed over to All Fired Up to paint a ceramic snowman.
- They finished at Spirited Art Richmond to paint holiday ornaments.
My 10 year old granddaughter Emma and 8 year old grandson Connor were so excited to go to the event. And Emma was still so excited after the event, she asked if she could write a review on Richmondmom.com.
So without further ado, Emma’s Real Richmond Review of the Holiday Arts Mash Up (in her own words!).
Fun at the Holiday Art Camp
by: Emma Hennesey (10 years old)
You know how there was a camp sort of event with Sweet Spot, Spirited Art, and All Fired Up. Well, there was — and all of the activities were so fun!
We did a lot of things and even had a yummy lunch of pizza from Ledo’s.
First, we went to Sweet Spot where we made gingerbread houses and we even got to keep our extra candy and icing! We had a little bag of candy to take home with us. We had lots of fun and laughed and played while we were decorating with candy and icing. When we finished, we moved down the street to All Fired Up.
At All Fired Up we painted little snowmen figurines with cute little hats. My brother and I made one for our little sister because she was too young to go with us this year.
And next was the time for my favorite part because I love to paint and draw. We headed off to Spirited Art where we painted our beautiful masterpieces. Guess what we made? We painted two small hanging ornaments with fingerprint snowmen on them. One was red and one was blue. My mom loved them for our Christmas tree.
The Holiday Arts Mash Up was one of my top favorite holiday events and favorite sort of winter camps. I hope we can do it again next year.
As you can see, the Holiday Arts Mash Up was a hit with the children – and the two hours allowed their parents to get some holiday shopping done too! Thanks Sweet Spot, Spirited Art, and All Fired Up! We hope we can do it again next year too!
Source: artofmanliness.com
Fun for moms – and dads!
Sweet Spot is raising money for men’s health through their “no shave campaign” appropriately named “Movember”.
This is the easiest charity event ever for men to join. There is no running, jumping, or climbing. Men can just sit back, relax, and let their mustaches grow.
During the month of November, men join the ‘no shave Movember team': The Mo Spot!
Here’s how it works:
- Join Sweet Spot’s team called The Mo Spot by going online to www.movember.com.
- Click Sign Up, register as “I’m Back” or “I’m New” – and after entering your information, click on team and type in The Mo Spot.
- All you men out there, get your family and friends to support your mustache growing by making a donation. Donations will go to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, Livestrong and Movember Foundation. Donations are made online by visiting www.movember.com, clicking on Donate, and typing in our team name, The Mo Spot.
- On November 1st, post your clean shaven picture on Sweet Spot’s Facebook page.
- For the month of November, grow a killer mustache.
- Join the Movember party on November 30. The Sweet Spot captain and mustache grower extraordinaire, Matt, will be handing out stache awards and they’ll be celebrating all the money raised for men’s health.
It’s really that fun and easy. So get your husband, significant other, guy friends, dad, or any other guy who wants to join in the fun for a great cause.
Thanks to Sweet Spot for making this possible.
When someone asks why you’re growing a mustache, just say “Cause it’s Movember at Sweet Spot!”
Our 2011 Real Cute Kids Grand Prize Winner, Joshua R. Isn’t he adorbs?
Click the age category below to Vote for entrants in the 2012 Richmond Real Cute Kids Contest through 10pm on 8/30/12:
All winners will be announced here on the site no later than 8/31/12!
Many thanks to Real Life Studios , Stony Point Surgery Center, and Primrose Schools for making this contest possible!
We’re proud to partner with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Richmond (DSAGR) and are making a donation for each entrant in this contest.
First place in each age category will receive a $600 package from Real Life Studios including a free family portrait session and 16 X 20 gallery wrap.
1st Runners up in each category receive a free family portrait session and one 5X7 valued at $200, for a total of $3200 in prizes from Real Life Studios.
Great Wolf Lodge - Grand Prize overnight stay package valued at $575!
Signed copies for winners in each age group (valued at $54) and over $300 in Richmond Rocks books for the first 25 entrants to purchase a package of $50 or more (no purchas is required; this is our gift for those who do purchase!)
A Fun Bus Birthday Party valued at $210 from Fun Bus of Hanover/Henrico.
Emerge Hair Salon – $100 in kids haircut; mom’s blowout/style, and hair/skin products!
3 prizes of 10 free passes each in the first three age categories to Richmond Kangaroo Jac’s.
One-hour Mickey’s Magic Show with Jack the Bunny valued at $129.
Sewinit – A monogrammed pillow with a value of $50
Hip to be Round – $50 gift card toward Tea Party collection for 0-2 category winner
Kimberly Woodson of Farmers Insurance Agency – an engraved picture frame worth $50
Science Museum of Virginia – Supernova Membership (value $99) to the grand prize winner and family 4-packs (value – $44 per pack) to the winner in each age-range.
Theatre IV – Family 4-Pack of Tickets to the Virginia Rep’s YOUNG TOM JEFFERSON at the Children’s Theatre of Virginia at Willow Lawn or Hanover Tavern – $64 value
Mom’s Treehouse: (0-2) 4-Stroller Strides classes, (3-5 ) 4-art classes, (6-8) 4-martial arts classes, (9-11) 4-martial arts classes
Healthy Little Chef – Two $20 gift cards
World of Mirth – $50 Gift Card
Sweet Spot Gift Certificate for $50 towards birthday party, candy, or treat bags
Kinsights – “Helping Grow Healthy Kids, Together” – is providing a $25 Amazon Gift Card
Thanks to our great sponsors for 2012 – Real Life Studios , Stony Point Surgery Center, and Primrose Schools.
Vote Now until 10pm on 8/30/12 for one of these 0-2 Year Old Entrants by clicking on this link or any link below:
Aashvi C.
Alex S.
Annabelle B.
Blakeley T.
Braylon K.
Bryant W.
Cambria D.
Chandler S.
Charlie K.
Chloe T.
Easton R.
Elden H.
Elijah T.
Eliza V.
Evan L.
Henry Joseph R.
Giada R.
Gibson M.
Isabilla M.
Izayiah S.
Jackson W.
Jake. R.
James B.
Jillian M.
Kaylee H.
Landon F.
Lucia O.
Lucia V.
Madison H.
Mary C.
Morgan B.
Patrick J.
Porter B.
Quinn D.
Sean W.
Robert F.
Taylor Grace H.
Taylor G.
Teddy S.
Trayvon G.
Tytiana G.
Zachary S.
Zayn A.
Zoe M.
Feel good about what you’re doing: The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Richmond is our non-profit partner on this contest, so we’ll make a donation to them for each Richmond kid who entered.
Winners will be announced no later than 8/31/12 here on the site, and the following prizes will be awarded (may vary by age category).
There are some great prizes for the winners, including the following (prizes may vary based on age category and substitutes may be made where necessary):
First place in each age category will receive a $600 package from Real Life Studios including a free family portrait session and 16 X 20 gallery wrap.
1st Runners up in each category receive a free family portrait session and one 5X7 valued at $200, for a total of $3200 in prizes from Real Life Studios.
Great Wolf Lodge - Grand Prize overnight stay package valued at $575
Signed copies for winners in each age group (valued at $54) and over $300 in Richmond Rocks books for the first 25 entrants to purchase a package of $50 or more (no purchas is required; this is our gift for those who do purchase!)
A Fun Bus Birthday Party valued at $210 from Fun Bus of Hanover/Henrico.
Emerge Hair Salon – $100 in kids haircut; mom’s blowout/style, and hair/skin products
3 prizes of 10 free passes for first three age categories to Richmond Kangaroo Jac’s.
One-hour Mickey’s Magic Show with Jack the Bunny valued at $129.
Sewinit – A monogrammed pillow with a value of $50
Hip to be Round – $50 gift card toward Tea Party collection for 0-2 category winner
Kimberly Woodson of Farmers Insurance Agency – an engraved picture frame worth $50
Science Museum of Virginia – Supernova Membership (value $99) to the grand prize winner and family 4-packs (value – $44 per pack) to the winner in each age-range.
Theatre IV – Family 4-Pack of Tickets to the Virginia Rep’s YOUNG TOM JEFFERSON at the Children’s Theatre of Virginia at Willow Lawn or Hanover Tavern – $64 value
Mom’s Treehouse: (0-2) 4-Stroller Strides classes, (3-5 ) 4-art classes, (6-8) 4-martial arts classes, (9-11) 4-martial arts classes
Healthy Little Chef – Two $20 gift cards
World of Mirth – $50 Gift Card
Sweet Spot Gift Certificate for $50 towards birthday party, candy, or treat bags
Kinsights – “Helping Grow Healthy Kids, Together” – is providing a $25 Amazon Gift Card
It’s time for the Richmondmom.com biggest contest of the year – our Real Cute Kids contest. Thanks to our great sponsors for 2012 – Real Life Studios , Stony Point Surgery Center, and Primrose Schools.
We’re proud to partner with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Richmond (DSAGR) and are making a donation for each entrant in this contest.
Our 2011 Real Cute Kids Grand Prize Winner, Joshua R. Isn’t he adorbs?
We’re starting voting 8/20/12 through 8/30/12 right here on Richmondmom.com with photos taken by August 10 by Real Life Studios. If you entered online but did not have a photo taken, we’re sorry but you’ll have to wait until next year to enter.
First place in each age category will receive a $600 package from Real Life Studios including a free family portrait session and 16 X 20 gallery wrap.
1st Runners up in each category receive a free family portrait session and one 5X7 valued at $200, for a total of $3200 in prizes from Real Life Studios.
Great Wolf Lodge - Grand Prize overnight stay package valued at $575!
Signed copies for winners in each age group (valued at $54) and over $300 in Richmond Rocks books for the first 25 entrants to purchase a package of $50 or more (no purchas is required; this is our gift for those who do purchase!)
A Fun Bus Birthday Party valued at $210 from Fun Bus of Hanover/Henrico.
Emerge Hair Salon – $100 in kids haircut; mom’s blowout/style, and hair/skin products!
3 prizes of 10 free passes each in the first three age categories to Richmond Kangaroo Jac’s.
One-hour Mickey’s Magic Show with Jack the Bunny valued at $129.
Sewinit – A monogrammed pillow with a value of $50
Hip to be Round – $50 gift card toward Tea Party collection for 0-2 category winner
Kimberly Woodson of Farmers Insurance Agency – an engraved picture frame worth $50
Science Museum of Virginia – Supernova Membership (value $99) to the grand prize winner and family 4-packs (value – $44 per pack) to the winner in each age-range.
Theatre IV – Family 4-Pack of Tickets to the Virginia Rep’s YOUNG TOM JEFFERSON at the Children’s Theatre of Virginia at Willow Lawn or Hanover Tavern – $64 value
Mom’s Treehouse: (0-2) 4-Stroller Strides classes, (3-5 ) 4-art classes, (6-8) 4-martial arts classes, (9-11) 4-martial arts classes
Healthy Little Chef – Two $20 gift cards
World of Mirth – $50 Gift Card
Sweet Spot Gift Certificate for $50 towards birthday party, candy, or treat bags
Kinsights – “Helping Grow Healthy Kids, Together” – is providing a $25 Amazon Gift Card
Thanks to our great sponsors for 2012 – Real Life Studios , Stony Point Surgery Center, and Primrose Schools.
Vote Now for one of these 9-11 Year Old Entrants by clicking here or ANY link below to go to the voting page (all links go to the same voting page):
Alex O.
Ashton H.
Brandon K.
Emily W.
Hailey H.
Kiera D.
Kristie D.
Matthew H.
Molly O.
Parker M.
Feel good about what you’re doing: The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Richmond is our non-profit partner on this contest, so we’ll make a donation to them for each Richmond kid who entered.
Winners will be announced no later than 8/31/12 here on the site, and the following prizes will be awarded (may vary by age category).
There are some great prizes for the winners, including the following (prizes may vary based on age category and substitutes may be made where necessary):
First place in each age category will receive a $600 package from Real Life Studios including a free family portrait session and 16 X 20 gallery wrap.
1st Runners up in each category receive a free family portrait session and one 5X7 valued at $200, for a total of $3200 in prizes from Real Life Studios.
Great Wolf Lodge - Grand Prize overnight stay package valued at $575
Signed copies for winners in each age group (valued at $54) and over $300 in Richmond Rocks books for the first 25 entrants to purchase a package of $50 or more (no purchas is required; this is our gift for those who do purchase!)
A Fun Bus Birthday Party valued at $210 from Fun Bus of Hanover/Henrico.
Emerge Hair Salon – $100 in kids haircut; mom’s blowout/style, and hair/skin products
3 prizes of 10 free passes for first three age categories to Richmond Kangaroo Jac’s.
One-hour Mickey’s Magic Show with Jack the Bunny valued at $129.
Sewinit – A monogrammed pillow with a value of $50
Hip to be Round – $50 gift card toward Tea Party collection for 0-2 category winner
Kimberly Woodson of Farmers Insurance Agency – an engraved picture frame worth $50
Science Museum of Virginia – Supernova Membership (value $99) to the grand prize winner and family 4-packs (value – $44 per pack) to the winner in each age-range.
Theatre IV – Family 4-Pack of Tickets to the Virginia Rep’s YOUNG TOM JEFFERSON at the Children’s Theatre of Virginia at Willow Lawn or Hanover Tavern – $64 value
Mom’s Treehouse: (0-2) 4-Stroller Strides classes, (3-5 ) 4-art classes, (6-8) 4-martial arts classes, (9-11) 4-martial arts classes
Healthy Little Chef – Two $20 gift cards
World of Mirth – $50 Gift Card
Sweet Spot Gift Certificate for $50 towards birthday party, candy, or treat bags
Kinsights – “Helping Grow Healthy Kids, Together” – is providing a $25 Amazon Gift Card