Top 5 Weekend Events For Families: Maymont Full Moon Hike, Dog Jog 5K & More

Now that St. Paddy’s Day is over, what’s there to look forward to? Plenty! There are lots of great reasons to hit the town and do something fun with the family this weekend. You can enjoy springtime with events at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden and Maymont Park, as well as a 5K run, Virginia Indian […]

March 18, 2011; 11:15 AM • by Carissa Garabedian

Our family events contributor Carissa Garabedian has hand-picked the best bets for family fun and entertainment around Richmond. For an amazing list of dozens more, be sure to check out Carissa’s award-winning website, Macaroni Kid of Richmond.

1. Maymont’s Full Moon Hike

Friday, March 18

Experience Maymont lit by the moon as you discover the sights and sounds of the night garden. A Maymont horticulturist will share selected arboretum and horticultural facts at special stops along this magical hike. Dress warmly and wear good walking shoes. Cancelled in severe weather; no rain date.

Who: All
When: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Where: Maymont
How: 804-358-7166, extension 310
Cost: $20 for non-memners, $17 for members

2. Richmond SPCA’s 9th Annual Dog Jog & 5K Run

Saturday, March 19

Come out to the Richmond SPCA on Saturday, March 19 at 9:30 a.m. for the Ninth Annual Dog Jog and 5K Run, presented by Car Pool. The event will begin with a 5K Run at 9:30 a.m., followed by the Dog Jog at 11 a.m. Bring your dog and a pair of running shoes for this event benefitting homeless pets in the care of the Richmond SPCA. Make sure to check out the Holiday Barn Pet Resorts Vendor Fair featuring kids activities, canine tricks demonstrations, music, food and more.

Who: All
When: 9:30 AM
Where: The 5K Run start line forms on Rhoadmiller Street
How: Go to http://www.richmondspca.org/race
Cost: Call Jenni Booker at 804-521-1318

3. Sacred Harp Shape Note Singers

Saturday, March 19

Shape note singing is worship music sung without accompaniment. Come listen to the members of the Sacred Harp Shape Note Singers as they introduce this music to Meadow Farm. The public is welcome to join in.

Who: All
When: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Where: Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park
How: Call Anna Truong, 501-2130
Cost: FREE

4. Virginia Indian Cultural Program

Saturday, March 19

The history and contemporary culture of Virginia Indian tribes will be presented through art, dance and exhibits. Indian artisans will display their pottery, beadwork, leatherwork, and painting, demonstrate their creative processes and discuss their work with the public. The Virginia Indian Intertribal Drum and Dancers will tell the story of native history and culture through a unique performance of traditional and contemporary tribal dances; the dancers will explain the regalia they wear as well as the meaning and significance of each dance they perform. Don’t miss the photo exhibit of Virginia Indians from the early 20th century.

Who: All
When: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: The Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen
How: For more information, call 501-1611
Cost: FREE

5. A Million Blooms at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

Friday, March 18 through Sunday, April 10

This year A Million Blooms kicks off Orchids Galore!, a spectacular display of orchids will kick off A Million Blooms. The celebration continues to celebrate millions of blooms throughout the spring season: daffodils, cherry blossoms, tulips, irises, roses and peonies. Special events such as Easter Weekend, Mother’s Day, the Spring Plant Sale and plant shows will add to this special celebration.