RVANews

Virginia Primary day now a school holiday for RPS students

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 14:05:31 +0000

Following a decision by Henrico County Public Schools to close schools for the Virginia Primary, Richmond students will now have a school holiday as well on March 1st.

The district has taken this action due to the potential impact on instruction for our students and staff as well as the number of voters who will require access to our facilities, according to Richmond Public Schools spokeswoman Kenita Bowers.

While schools will be closed for students, all employees should report as normal.

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Last Minute Gift Guide: Carytown, Scott’s Addition and the Museum District

Trevor Dickerson — Tue, 22 Dec 2015 17:24:53 +0000

Well, this is it folks. We're down to the wire with three shopping days left until Christmas. Whether you're searching for one more gift for someone special, or haven't started yet, there's still a little time. Here are the best places to snag last minute locally-made gifts in Carytown, Scott's Addition, and the Museum District. Call ahead or visit each store's respective website to check holiday hours.

MONGREL (CARYTOWN)

One of the most popular gift shops in Carytown, Mongrel has all sorts of fun and interesting gifts. From handmade ornaments and books to Richmond-centric items, gag gifts, books, and a large selection of greeting cards, this is a great place to mark multiple people off your shopping list.

ORANGE (CARYTOWN)

Locally-made arts, crafts, and prints adorn this quirky shop in the heart of Carytown. You'll find a large assortment of RVA Coffee Stain prints for sale, and don't miss the hidden set of stairs in the back of the shop that lead to a small upstairs area with even more items like local apparel.

PLAN 9 MUSIC (CARYTOWN)

Plan 9 Music in Carytown is a great place to find unique and rare vinyl and CDs, but the store also includes a wide array of local gifts like RVA hoodies, Richmond Folk Festival posters, and other merch.

STUDIO TWO THREE (SCOTT'S ADDITION)

Studio Two Three's handmade holiday popup shop in Scott's Addition is really unique. You'll find hand printed Richmond maps, tote bags, prints, Richmond-centric signs handmade by Ross Trimmer of Sure Hand Signs, and more.

VIRGINIA HISTORICAL SOCIETY SHOp (Museum District)

The VHS shop is a history lover's dream come true. You'll find locally made gifts, books on Richmond's history, jewelry, reproduction city and state maps perfect for framing, and a selection of merchandise from the museum's current exhibition, "Dressing Downton," featuring the apparel from PBS's Downton Abbey.

VMFA SHOP (MUSEUM DISTRICT)

The VMFA Shop, within the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts itself, is a great spot to find eclectic gifts for the art or history lover in your life. From exhibition-specific items (think Chihuly, Forbidden City, Picasso, etc.) to handcrafted jewelry, there's a lot of great stuff here.

World Of Mirth (Carytown)

World Of Mirth has awesome gifts for kids and the kid at heart. From toys and stuffed animals to learning games and a healthy adult humor section, you'll find unique gifts, gags, and more in this Carytown store.

Photo: Studio Two Three

Amour Wine Bistro hosting special dinners for Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve

Trevor Dickerson — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 14:36:09 +0000

Amour Wine Bistro in Carytown is hosting two special dinners for the holidays. The restaurant and wine bar will host a Christmas Eve dinner and two New Year's Eve dinner seatings, the second of which will conclude in a midnight gala.

The Christmas Eve dinner will take place December 24th at 6:30 PM.

View the menu here.

The New Year's Eve dinner will take place in two seatings on December 31st at 5:30 PM and 9:30 PM.

First seating menu here; second seating and midnight gala menu here.

Henrico Schools employees make generous donation to county’s Christmas Mother program

Trevor Dickerson — Wed, 16 Dec 2015 14:15:01 +0000

In a generous act of giving during the holiday season, employees at Henrico County Schools headquarters building elected to give to the Henrico Christmas Mother campaign, rather than participate in an office gift exchange.

On Tuesday morning, Henrico Christmas Mother Beverly Cocke accepted a ceremonial check for their efforts from HCPS Superintendent Patrick Kinlaw in the amount of $3,926.86 on behalf of the employees. The amount included gifts and cash from administrative and support personnel.

The donations included a sleigh full of toys from HCPS instructional specialists and the Human Resources Department, two bicycles from the Department of School Nutrition, $373.50 from the Department of Exceptional Education, raised through a department auction, and $2,324 from a first-ever buildingwide online auction of staff-donated goods and services.

"Helping one another, loving one another, speaks to the very heart of the Henrico Christmas Mother program but it also speaks to the very heart of the HCPS family,” said Cocke, who is also the Brookland District representative on the Henrico School Board. "So on behalf of the Henrico Christmas Mother Council, I want to thank you all for what you do for our recipients at the warehouse, but also what you do for all of our county children. We wish you all a joyous and happy holiday."

First-graders from Highland Springs Elementary School sang holiday songs at the event. The Henrico Christmas Mother campaign, founded in 1942, provides food, new clothes, toys, books and other gift items to Henrico families with children, seniors and disabled adults during the holiday season.

Photo: HCPS

Ardent Craft Ales presents Beer Craft Market on Saturday

Trevor Dickerson — Fri, 11 Dec 2015 15:21:23 +0000

From Ardent Craft Ales:

Your one stop holiday shop for the beer lover in your life! Join us for our second beer craft market full of locally made, beer-centric goods including growlers, glassware, bottle carriers, openers, beer art, and everything else you could possibly think of! Free to enter...and the debut of Rum Barrel Dark Rye: 400 bottles made with an eight bottle limit.

The event kicks off at 1:00 PM at Ardent in Scott's Addition.

Studio Two Three hosting Holiday Print Fair this weekend

Trevor Dickerson — Fri, 11 Dec 2015 15:11:28 +0000

Studio Two Three, located in Scott's Addition, will host the event from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM Saturday and Sunday.

Christmas on MacArthur

Richard Hayes — Fri, 11 Dec 2015 14:42:07 +0000

Nominate a deserving dad for $100 and lunch at The Jefferson Hotel

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 17:54:29 +0000

From First Things First of Greater Richmond:

First Things First of Greater Richmond, through the generosity of the Richmond Christmas Mother Fund, will be selecting 15 fathers who will be treated to lunch and awarded a $100 gift card to help out during the holiday season.
Recipients must be nominated through a form online at www.fatherchristmasrva.org. The deadline for nomination is December 17, 2015. In order to be eligible for consideration, nominees must live in the greater Richmond area, be at least 18 years of age, and be facing financial hardship.
The 15 selected nominees will be notified by December 21, 2015 and will be taken out to lunch at The Historic Jefferson Hotel on December 22, 2015 where they will receive their gift cards.
First Things First of Greater Richmond wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Learn more and submit nominations here.

Photo: Paolo Pace/Flickr

PHOTOS: Third annual RVA Krampusnacht Walk in Carytown

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 07 Dec 2015 17:25:11 +0000

Droves of devilish characters came out to Carytown for the annual RVA Krampusnacht walk. The event, honoring the mythical holiday beast hailing from Alpine countries, celebrated its third year in 2015.

Check out the rest of the photos here.

Photos: Dave Parrish Photography

Deco Ristorante hosting seven course fish, seafood, and wine dinner December 16th

Trevor Dickerson — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 16:19:07 +0000

If a holiday feast featuring fresh fish and seafood sounds like your idea of a good time, the Feast of the Seven Fishes Wine Dinner, taking place at Deco Ristorante in the Museum District will definitely be right up your alley. The $129 all-inclusive, seven-course meal will be held Wednesday, December 16th. Two seatings are available.

From Deco Ristorante:

DO YOU LIKE SEAFOOD, GREAT WINE, AND ONE-OF-A-KIND DINING EXPERIENCES?
JOIN US FOR THE FEAST OF THE SEVEN FISHES
Wednesday, December 16th
2 Seatings: 5:30 PM & 8:30 PM
DECO RISTORANTE: award-winning Sicilian restaurant just steps from the VMFA in the historic Museum District
$129 includes dinner, wine pairings, tax and gratuity -- plus a special gift.
Origin: What is The Feast of the Seven Fishes?
Festa dei sette pesci, or the Feast of the Seven Fishes, is a traditional Italian Christmas Eve celebration featuring at least seven courses of fish and seafood. It is also know as La Vigilia, or The Vigil, and celebrates the wait for the midnight birth of Jesus on Christmas Day. It is unclear and the stories vary, but most believe La Vigilia originated along the impoverished, coastal regions of Southern Italy.
Tradition: Why the number Seven?
There are many uses of the number seven in the Bible; however, The Feast of the Seven Fishes is most commonly thought to be tied to the Seven Sacraments in the Roman Catholic Church: baptism, confirmation, the Eucharist, penance, holy orders, matrimony and the anointing of the sick.
Variations on the number of appropriate courses for The Feast abound. Some call for nine types of fish to be served, signifying the Holy Trinity times three, and others say the correct number is 13, for the 12 apostles plus Jesus.
The Food: What is typically served?
Traditionally, each of the seven courses features a different main ingredient or a different method of preparation. The meal includes various types of seafood, as Italians use the word fish to mean all types of sea creatures. It's also likely, in true Italian fashion, to find traditional dishes like pasta featuring a seafood sauce. Other common offerings include fried small fish like sardines or fish balls, a light or acidic salad with seafood, grilled or broiled eel or smoked fish, and perhaps a seafood soup.
Many seafoods may grace the holiday table these days, such as anchovies, sardines, salt cod, smelt, eel, squid, octopus, shrimp, mussels, oysters, and clams. Fish might include whatever can be found fresh that day, for example: sea bass, bluefish, tuna, trout, or tautog (in Virginia).
A menu for our dinner at Deco will not be released as it is dependent on what seafood is available and could change that day.
$129 includes dinner, wine pairings, tax and gratuity, plus a special gift.
We can't wait to share this extra special holiday meal with you!
Tickets must be purchased in advance and are LIMITED.

Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Holiday events abound in Henrico County this year

Trevor Dickerson — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 15:58:30 +0000

From Dominion GardenFest of Lights and the James River Parade of Lights to performances and holiday movies at the Henrico Theatre and an a cappella concert, there are lots of events going on around Henrico County, from Short Pump to Varina.

There’s no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit this year. Here are a few ideas to get you in a festive mood, courtesy of Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, County of Henrico Division of Recreation and Parks and The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen.

Check out the full roster of fun holiday events here.

Henrico Police participating in ‘Cops and Kids’ holiday shopping program this Sunday

Trevor Dickerson — Fri, 04 Dec 2015 15:50:25 +0000

The Henrico Fraternal Order of Police is partnering with about 75 underprivileged children in the community to make their holidays a bit brighter in an event billed as the 'Cops and Kids Christmas Program.'

From Henrico Police:

The Henrico Fraternal Order of Police is sponsoring its annual FOP (Fraternal Order of Police) Cops and Kids Christmas Program on Sunday, December 6, 2015, at 8:00 AM. Approximately 75 children from Henrico and New Kent Counties will meet at the Glen Allen Community Center located at 10800 Brookley Road in Glen Allen to enjoy a breakfast with law enforcement officers from area law enforcement agencies.
Then, at approximately 9:00 AM, these police officers and children will travel to the Wal-Mart located at 7901 Brook Road, to begin their shopping excursion. Each child will be paired up with a law enforcement officer. The FOP allocates a set amount of money for each child. Half of the money must be devoted to clothing and other essential items. The child uses the remainder of the money to purchase toys, games, and books of their choosing. The Henrico FOP does not allow children at this event to purchase toy guns, mature rated movies, and/or video games.
School counselors from various Henrico County and New Kent County elementary and middle schools recommended the children participating in this program to the FOP Lodge #4.

RVA Krampusnacht returns with greatly-expanded schedule of events for 2015

Trevor Dickerson — Tue, 01 Dec 2015 15:06:56 +0000

'Tis the season to be...completely terrified? RVA Krampusnacht, an annual celebration of a beastly, devil-like holiday character, is back and bigger than ever before for 2015.

From RVA Krampusnacht organizers:

This year RVA Krampusnacht is going to be bigger and better than ever! Grab your horns, chains, cow bells, and your birch switches, we march through Carytown on December 5th! We will start at Portrait House (MEET THERE at 5:30pm, WALK at 6pm) and end there too for an afterparty!
But there's not just the walk!
Check out these other events in conjunction:
November 30th - December 11th:
Red Vein Army will be having a toy drive called “Krampus Kinder Nacht” box that will benefit Scares That Care (http://scaresthatcare.org/), which is a 501(c) charity organization that is dedicated to uniting horror fans to help sick kids and women fight breast cancer. This will culminate with a "Krampus Kinder Nacht" party at Strangeways Brewery on Friday, December 11th as a final push for the toy drive!
First Friday December 4th:
On the night before the walk, don't miss Yuletide Monsters 2: A Krampus Art Show! Gallery5 will be packed with all things Krampus art as well as live music, performances, a holidaze market! click here to rsvp that you are coming tinyURL.com/YuletideMonsters2
Saturday, December 5th:
The 3rd Annual RVA Krampusnacht Walk in Carytown (meet at Portrait House at 5:30pm; walk starts at 6pm; ends back at Portrait House for afterparty!
Sunday, December 6th:
RVA Horror Book Club #41 will meet to discuss the brand spankin new-hot-off-the-presses book, "Krampus: Shadow of Saint Nicholas" by Michael Dougherty! Afterwards we will head over to Bowtie Cinema (approximately 7pm) to see the new KRAMPUS movie.

To learn more, visit the event website.

Photo: Dave Parrish Photography

Sip and shop this weekend at The Wine Loft in Short Pump

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 30 Nov 2015 16:36:53 +0000

From The Wine Loft:

Join us for a fun night of wine and shopping. Avoid the crowded malls and shop in style while sipping on your favorite glass of vino.
Several vendors like Stella & Dot, Clever Containers, and more will be here just for you.

The event runs from 4:00 - 7:00 PM at The Wine Loft in Short Pump, located at 4035 Whittall Way.

Learn more here.

Short Pump retailer Tweed hiring sales associates for holiday shopping season

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 17 Aug 2015 13:26:10 +0000

From Short Pump retailer Tweed:

Tweed is hiring energetic and reliable Seasonal Sales Associates to start training immediately!
This temporary position may have an opportunity to become permanent after January.
No experience is necessary, and all Interested parties Must be available to work the following:
20-30 hours/weekly from September through January, 2016.
Weekends, weekdays and some evenings until 8pm.
Black Friday and the weekend after Thanksgiving.
The week after Christmas.
To apply, email your resume to Meredith at meredith@tweedathome.com, and put "Seasonal Sales Associate" in the subject line.

City, Byrd Theatre manager trade blame for Carytown Ball Rise cancelation

Trevor Dickerson — Wed, 31 Dec 2014 14:55:18 +0000

It's been a mere two days since Byrd Theatre manager Todd Schall-Vess announced plans to continue the tradition of the Carytown Ball Rise, an event in which crowds gather to witness a lighted ball ring in the new year.

Citing concerns regarding competition with the RVA NYE 2014 event on Brown's Island and his desire to organize a small neighborhood-level event, Schall-Vess waited to share news of the event until the last minute.

While erecting a pole atop New York Deli onto which the Carytown ball was to rise, city officials arrived and ordered workers to halt construction.

Richmond Police Captain Emmett Williams told the Richmond Times-Dispatch the issue is simply about permits, stating:

“[Schall-Vess] was erecting a structure for the ball on top of the New York Deli and the owners had not obtained permits to have the structure erected. They were in violation.”

Schall-Vess countered Captain Williams, saying somewhat vaguely that the issue is "more layered than that."

Reaction about the event and its cancelation from Carytown Merchants Association members is mixed--while bars typically fared well over the event's eight year history, retailers and other businesses saw their foot traffic decline.

Carytown ball will rise once again at original location New Year’s Eve

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 29 Dec 2014 15:56:55 +0000

The Carytown Ball Rise, a tradition where crowds have gathered to watch a giant lit ball ascend a pole atop The Byrd Theatre, is coming home.

The event, which draws thousands each year, was moved to Hardywood Park Craft Brewery in 2013 at the last minute. Byrd Theatre manager Todd Schall-Vess tells Richmond.com he feels the event has become such a tradition that he wanted to bring it back to its original location.

The only major difference in this year's event will be the relocation of the ball and pole to New York Deli's rooftop to allow for better visibility from Cary Street.

While Schall-Vess acknowledges more than 10,000 are expected at the first ever New Year's Eve event on Brown's Island, he hopes the Carytown event will complement the downtown festivities and draw neighborhood residents looking for an event within walking distance of their homes.

Photo: Teachers get into the holiday spirit with festive costumes

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 21:08:27 +0000

Teachers at Twin Hickory Elementary School in Short Pump took holiday outfits to a whole new level with these outfits.

Photo: Candace Wilcox

Ring in the New Year with five course dinner at Secco Wine Bar

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 22 Dec 2014 15:13:35 +0000

Secco Wine Bar in Carytown is ringing in 2015 with a five-course dinner plus amuse and wine pairings. Each dish is inspired by a different country's New Year's traditions, and both omnivore and vegetarian options are available. There will be one 7:00 PM seating.

From the restaurant:

$110 per person (all-inclusive) omnivore
BUY HERE
$100 per person (all-inclusive) vegetarian
BUY HERE
*****************************************************
MENU
(wine pairings coming soon)
Amuse
12 grapes
dolma with roasted grapes, caramelized fennel, dill, rice, lemon, pine nuts, creme fraiche
First Course
collards salad
Parmesan, pickled egg, honey-roasted cashews, cured-meat powder
Second Course
gigante beans
tomato brodo, frisee
Third Course
halibut
clementine vinaigrette, truffle butter, parsnip puree
Fourth Course
bone-in, smoked pork chop
baby carrots, coffee shortbread crumble, green carrot juice
Fifth Course
white chocolate pound cake
Champagne sabayon, freeze-dried strawberries, mint
Coffee or tea
(no substitutions, please)
All inclusive (price includes dinner, wine, tax and gratuity)

Hali Hicks performing New Year’s Eve concert at Acca Temple

Trevor Dickerson — Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:15:15 +0000

Nashville recording artist Hali Hicks will be in town to perform at the Acca Temple on New Year's Eve, the organization announced.

Hicks is a well-known veteran resident and recording artist in Nashville. Toting a Martin guitar, Hicks is always at the ready to sing a song. She’s been singing since she was a toddler and started playing her guitar when she was 13.

Hicks recently released a new 6 song EP entitled 'Stealin’,' collaborating with songwriters Phillip White and Danny Wells. The recording is now available for digital download on iTunes.

Doors open at 7:00 PM and the concert starts at 8:00 PM. Live music continues into the evening until a free champagne toast at midnight. Also included in the ticket price is a country-style breakfast served into the wee hours of the morning.

Tickets are $40 per person and can be purchased online or at the door.

Attire is black tie optional. Proceeds benefit Acca Shrine Center.

The Acca Temple is located at 1712 Bellevue Avenue.

Photo: Hali Hicks Music

Local police departments remind last minute shoppers to ‘Stop, Lock, then Shop’

Trevor Dickerson — Tue, 16 Dec 2014 14:22:11 +0000

With a little more than a week left until Christmas, last minute holiday shopping is kicking into high gear.

Rushing around town looking for all those last minute gifts could mean folks pay less attention to the little things, like remembering to lock up their cars. Police are reminding shoppers to lock their vehicles at all times, and to be aware of their surroundings in a holiday campaign known as “Stop, Lock, then Shop."

"This season of celebrations is also a time when some people will take advantage of crowded shopping centers and attempt to commit crimes," said Lieutenant Chris Eley with the Henrico Police Department. "Our holiday patrol, a special team of officers, will be in our retail areas and shopping malls, and our traffic and DUI enforcement teams will be working throughout the holiday season."

Most larcenies from vehicles are from vehicles that are unlocked. It may seem obvious, but police warn not to leave items such as purses, wallets, and GPS devices in plain view.

Members of the community are reminded to call non-emergency communications numbers to report non life-threatening situations and, of course, to call 911 in an emergency.

In Henrico County, the non-emergency number is 804.501.5000; in the City of Richmond that number is 804.646.5100.

Below are more police tips to keep you safe as you make your lists and check them twice.

Photo: Short Pump Town Center Facebook Page

Local photographer uses drone to give unique perspective on Tacky Lights Tour home

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 15 Dec 2014 14:15:54 +0000

Most of us are familiar with the brilliant lights and fun surrounding homes on Richmond's Tacky Lights Tour, but one local photographer aims to give fans an entirely new perspective on the holiday cheer.

Daryl Watkins used a drone to get a bird's eye view of one of the most popular homes on the tour, a home on Wendhurst Drive in Glen Allen.

The home, owned by Al and Esther Thompson, has been lit up with Christmas cheer for the past 16 years and draws a crowd of onlookers each and every night.

The display features over 170,000 lights and has been featured on TLC's Crazy Christmas Lights, CBS News Sunday Morning, NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams, and on NPR.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBdfLGKtBQM

Guys Night at Quirk Gallery

Jennifer Nesossis — Thu, 11 Dec 2014 15:45:47 +0000

Mark your calendar for Guys Night at Quirk Gallery on Wednesday, December 17 from 6:00 - 9:00 PM. This event is free and open to the public.

Saison will be serving a special cocktail, High Point Barbershop will be offering hot shaves, artist Dashiell Kirk will be creating live portraits, and live music will be provided by Sara Gossett.

Holiday ‘Artisan Market’ comes to Carytown on Sunday

Trevor Dickerson — Wed, 10 Dec 2014 16:50:44 +0000

The Carytown Farmers Market is hosting a special Artisan Market this weekend, just in time for the holidays.

The group will host the Carytown Artisan Market this Sunday, December 14th from 10:00 - 5:00 PM. Over 50 local artisans and crafters will take part in the event, which will be held at 3201 West Cary Street.

Visitors can also enjoy food from several food trucks including Popping Mealies, Real Country Sausage, Phal's Egg Rolls, and Ken's Limeades and Coffee.

Seven local acts will provide live music throughout the day as well.

For a full list of participating vendors and the live music schedule, visit the Carytown Farmers Market website.

5 Things

Susan Howson — Thu, 04 Dec 2014 12:46:50 +0000

If you're any kind of Richmonder, you'll start filling up your time with the Bizarre Bazaar, a Victorian Maymont Christmas, and a chat with the Legendary Santa, who knows exactly what you mean when you ask for "a less selfish outlook on the year ahead, plus Cheers on DVD."

1.The Bizarre Bazaar

I was brought up to respect the bizarreness of the Bizarre Bazaar, an intense craft show with a no-holds-barred attitude towards the level of artisanship they offer. No matter how old I grow or how wizened my typing claws become, I will shout the praises of the Bizarre Bazaar to the rooftop to which Santa Claus himself would spring! This is Christmas incarnate! Adjust thy calendars accordingly!

Thursday, December 4th - Sunday, December 7th • See site for times
Richmond International Raceway, 600 E. Laburnum Avenue
$7 for adults and $1 for children (no strollers, pleaseandthankyou)

2. Legendary Santa

I was also brought up to respect the absolute authority of the Legendary Santa. Although, maybe it was the Real Santa--who can tell these days? What I'm saying is, as a child-who-is-now-an-adult, you should give your utmost respect to a Santa guy who spends a ton of time committing to become as most like the Real Thing as is humanly possible, considering that the Real Thing doesn't exist. Anyway, this guy has poured heart and soul into being there for your kids at CMoR, and you should get behind that or you will learn the scathing lessons of Christmas Future, the worst Christmas of all (don't remember which Christmas that was for ol' hapless Scrooge? imagine your name on a tombstone and no one mourning your death. YEAH THAT'S THE DEAL.)

It's complicated, but there are many dates and times
CMoR Central, 2626 W. Broad Street
Free, but with some cash you can expedite or improve your experience.

3. Grand Illumination

I was ALSO brought up to respect the lighting of many tiny electric lights, especially when in the form of reindeer and trees in the heart of downtown Richmond. Yes, I'm talking about the Grand Illumination, which these days also involves the electric outlining of the Richmond skyline. If you hate your city and/or hate the holidays, you will avoid this amazing event. But if you're the rest of us, then I'll see you there.

Friday, December 5th • 5:45 - 7:00 PM
Da James Center, on Cary Street between 9th Street and 12th Street
Free!

4. RVA Krampusnacht

I was ALSO ALSO brought up to believe that creepy things should be suppressed, so I almost didn't include the newish tradition of RVA Krampusnacht. It pays homage to an anti-Santa that accompanied the Jolly Old Elf through his jaunts in Bavaria. Were your kids good? Great! Santa has a little something for them. Were your kids lacking this year? Sucks to be you, they'll be accosted by Krampus and life is pretty much gonna suck. The modern-day version of this terrifying dichotomy is the Krampuslauf, which starts at the traditional "Portrait House" and walks scarily up Cary Street, just like our forefathers in Austria intended.

Saturday, December 6th • 5:30 PM
Portrait House, 2907 W. Cary Street
Just dress up appropriately, please

5. Old-Fashioned Christmas

OK, OK. You got me. I'm a stickler for anything "old-fashioned," particularly when it applies to "Christmas." Throw in "Maymont," and I'm putty in your hands. My other Richmond childhood memories of Christmas involve walking through Maymont, full of wonder, and seeing some shadowy top-hatted figures alighting carriages in the dark, while people sang carols, holding candles. Yeah, top THAT! You can have Dooley Mansion tours from $5 and horse-drawn carriage tours from $5, too. Or, you can wander around on your own, wondering what it felt like to be so frigging awesome. Up to you.

Sunday, December 7th • 12:00 - 5:00 PM
Maymont Mansion and Carriage House Lawn, 1700 Hampton Street
$5 or free!

Photo by: Joriel "Joz" Jimenez

‘Tis the season to be beastly: RVA Krampusnacht returns to Carytown

Trevor Dickerson — Wed, 03 Dec 2014 11:00:09 +0000

In a festive season chock-full of lighthearted characters like Santa, Frosty, and gingerbread men, one of the last things that comes to mind is a horned, devil-like creature as a symbol of the holidays.

Enter Krampus--and a walk in Carytown (this Saturday, December 6th) dedicated to the mythical beast RVA Krampusnacht.

— ∮∮∮ —

Hailing from the Alpine regions of Europe--countries like Austria, Germany, and Switzerland--from a time that at least pre-dates Christianity, Krampus's exact origins are difficult to trace.

"Lots of different cultures have their own version of him--he's basically a companion to St. Nicholas that punishes the bad children," says Nicole Pisaniello, one of the walk's founding organizers. "You see versions of him in Europe and all of them have different looks."

The first annual RVA Krampusnacht walk was held last year in Carytown, drawing over 40 participants donning monster-like outfits and masks who banged drums and made lots of noise to make their presence known.

Modeled after the RVA Zombie Walk, creatures of the night start off with a couple of cold ones at Portrait House before making their way down Cary Street to terrorize the masses before, you guessed it, heading back to Portrait House. Those in costume will be entitled to a number of drink specials.

Pisaniello got the idea for the zany event, which she started with cohort Parker Galore, after learning about Krampus in school. What she didn't realize, however, is that the creature was gaining popularity around the world outside of the textbooks.

"Some friends and I had heard about him in school briefly. Then later I started seeing Krampus [merchandise] online, and Krampus runs in other countries. I thought this could never happen in the U.S., but I decided to start my own [walk].

— ∮∮∮ —

Richmond's walk joins a growing number of cities in the U.S. hosting events. Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, and Philadelphia all have Krampus walks now. Pisaniello says several participants from the Philly event made the trek for RVA's inaugural walk last year.

Events in other countries are all over the board, says Pisaniello. "Some are more geared towards towards kids, others are just a pub crawl. We wanted to make [the event] true to Europe, but add our own artistic flair."

To that point, and because of the popularity of last year's walk, Pisaniello and Galore are adding an art show the night before this year's event. 25 artists will gather and display their own unique interpretations of Krampus in a variety of media at 9WG Studios on W. Grace Street. The show will coincide with First Fridays.

Later in the month, Strangeways Brewing will host what Pisaniello calls a Krampus-themed "after, after party" on December 20th. Much like at Portrait House, Yuletide creatures will enjoy beer specials.

The 2014 RVA Krampusnacht walk kicks off at 5:30 PM on Saturday, December 6th at Portrait House in Carytown, where a costume contest and review of the rules (including confining the march to the sidewalk) will take place.

— ∮∮∮ —

Scenes from the inaugural RVA Krampusnacht walk in 2013

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=INXoDSca7jQ

Photo: Dave Parrish Photography

Enjoy live jazz and feed hungry children at the seventh annual Jazz Nativity

Trevor Dickerson — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 16:07:33 +0000

Gayton Baptist Church in Short Pump is hosting their seventh annual Jazz Nativity event featuring David Esleck this holiday season. The evening features jazz music inspired by the Christmas season. Last year, over 1,800 people attended the five shows, and the event garnered over $25,000 for beneficiary, Feed My Starving Children.

David Esleck is a musician, composer, and producer whose compositions have been performed and broadcast around the world. He is a first round Grammy Award nominee, and has performed for and with Presidents, as well as musical figures ranging from The Preservation Hall Jazz Band to Tony Bennett. Esleck is currently a faculty member of the University of Richmond.

Proceeds from Jazz Nativity will benefit Feed My Starving Children, an organization which targets feeding programs to children who are in the most severe circumstances, those suffering from severe malnutrition and threatened with death from starvation. In the past, they have supplied food to over 70 countries including our own--like those affected by Hurricane Katrina.

With the proceeds, Gayton Baptist Church is hosting a meal packing program to benefit the organization on Super Bowl Weekend 2015.

Five identical Jazz Nativity concerts take place at 7:00 PM on Friday, December 5th, at 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Saturday, December 6th, and at 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM on Sunday, December 7th.

Gourmet coffee and desserts will be available from Starbucks each night. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for kids 11 and younger and can be purchased online. Gayton Baptist Church is located near Short Pump Town Center at 13501 North Gayton Road.

Photo: Gayton Baptist Church/Katelyn James Photography

Winter Print Fair at Studio Two Three on December 5th and 6th

Richard Hayes — Mon, 24 Nov 2014 15:25:26 +0000

The Winter Print Fair gives you the chance to purchase printed works, created by a bevy of local printmakers, printed locally most likely in the building you'll be standing in looking at the prints. Including the map you see below.

You can check out more (but not all) of what you'll find at Studio Two Three's online store.

Images: Studio Two Three

Chop Suey Books presents 10th annual Bizarre Market Holiday pop-up shop

Trevor Dickerson — Tue, 04 Nov 2014 14:15:55 +0000

Chop Suey Books in Carytown is hosting their 10th annual Bizarre Market Holiday this year, a pop-up arts and crafts market featuring local artisans and craftsmen.

From the news release:

Richmond's snuggly, sparkly, functional, repurposed, delicious and supremely crafty handmade pop-up shop--is in its tenth year this year! Located in the upstairs gallery of Chop Suey Books in Carytown, the pop-up will be open 7 days a week between November 28th and December 24th. The competition for a nook in the miniature wonderland continues to get stiffer, with only 50 spots available to several hundred applicants.
Celebrations will include TINY AUCTION, a special Black Friday opening party, and a Small Business Saturday giveaway series. TINY AUCTION is a fundraiser for the Richmond Young Writers scholarship fund which auctions off handmade, one-of-a-kind items by local artists.
Beloved treasures from years past have included dip-dyed handbags, hand-printed cards/posters/tea towels, needle-felted woodland creatures, vivid porcelain ceramics, leather wallets and cases, crystal-studded terrariums, hand-sculpted silver jewelry, and knitted/crocheted snuggliness of all kinds. Previews of the tightly curated handmade goods will appear daily on the Bizarre Market Facebook page as of early November.

The Bizzare Market Holiday pop-up shop opens at Chop Suey Books, 2913 West Cary Street on November 28th and runs through Christmas Eve. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, and Sunday from noon - 7:00 PM.

5 Things for Labor Day

Nathan Cushing — Fri, 29 Aug 2014 10:00:17 +0000

1. Bizarro Across America Progressive Book Tour

With book titles like Death Machines of Death, Warrior Wolf Women of the Wasteland, and Rampaging Fuckers of Everything on the Crazy Shitting Planet of the Vomit Atmosphere, Bizarro fiction sure isn't your grandma's old-timey literature. Even Richmond's own Dave Brockie dabbled in the genre.

Come out to Chop Suey for readings, performances, and more general bizarreness that's as funny as it is vulgar.

Monday, September 1st • 3:00 PM
Chop Suey Books • 2913 W. Cary Street
FREE

2. Bark in the Park at The Diamond

Enjoy a rare weekday matinee at The Diamond as the Flying Squirrels take on the Binghamton Mets, and bring the family pooch for another installment of Bark in the Park. Make sure you bring that McDonald's receipt for a buy-one-get-one ticket promotion. First 1,000 fans into the stadium receive a rally towel, too.

Monday, September 1st • 12:05 PM
The Diamond
Tickets: $4 - $28

3. Wine & Cheese pairing at James River Cellars

Enjoy the day off with some gourmet wine and cheese, and learn how to pair James River Cellars wine with speciality cheeses. Chillax on the lawn, enjoy the views, and bask in the delicious quiet that's uncorked at the local winery.

Monday, September 1st • 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
James River Cellars • 11008 Washington Highway in Glen Allen
$10 per person

4. Cards against Humanity throw down at Strangeways

Billed as a "party game for horrible people", Cards Against Humanity is irreverent and hysterical. Create a team with 3-6 of your friends, head to Strangeways Brewing to imbibe the brewery's Still Life With Peaches Saison and Eternal Youth Biére d'Abricot, and partake in some uproarious card play.

Monday, September 1st • 4:00 - 9:00 PM
Strangeways Brewing • 2277A Dabney Road
FREE to play

5. Not-so-great movies at The Byrd

The Byrd changes films this Sunday. The 7:15 PM showing will be Maleficent (which got lukewarm reviews), to be followed at 9:30 PM by Tammy, which one of our reviewers called "the worst movie I've seen in 2014." Hooray for Hollywood!

I know what you're thinking: why waste two hours and partake in this unstellar celluloid? Because tickets are only $2, people! Collect your friends, and make it a night of muttering disparaging (and hilarious) jokes at the expense of these two underwhelming flicks.

C'mon. It's Labor Day! You've earned it.

Monday, September 1st • 7:15 & 9:30 PM run times
Byrd Theatre • 2908 W. Cary Street
$2

Photo by Rennett Stowe