Throughout the year Richmond commemorates its cultural heritage with festivals and events celebrating holidays, seasons and historical events. The Maymont Flower and Garden Show in February is held indoors at the Richmond Centre and features all sorts of plants and garden accessories. It is a great place to get landscaping ideas before spring arrives.

At the River City Real Beer Festival, held in June, vendors pour out samples of brews from around the world. Listen to live music and feast on fresh seafood as well. A summer-long Festival of the Arts is held at the city-run Dogwood Dell. Activities include theater and dance performances, music programs from reggae to pop and the Ha’Penny Stage for children.

Virginia is horse country and one of the best ways to celebrate that is at the Strawberry Hill Races. The steeplechase event takes place in April and proceeds benefit the Richmond Symphony and other community and cultural organizations. It is generally an all-day affair with visitors bringing picnics and enjoying the entertainment. The traditional start to the harvest season is the State Fair and Virginia’s is held here in the state capital. Livestock shows, cooking competitions, an arts and crafts market, live entertainment and food make the event fun for everyone. The Virginia Harvest Celebration at the Farmers Market focuses on produce and southern cooking with demonstrations by local chefs.

Although relatively small, Richmond is a city with a wide variety of activities to appeal to its diverse population. For specific information, pick up a copy of the Richmond Times-Dispatch or Punchline Weekly.