Top 5 Weekend Events For Families: ASK 5K, Chickenstock & More

A beautiful spring weekend is upon us, and this week’s Top 5 features all outdoor events! From Arts in the Park at Byrd Bark and Chickenstock at the Short Pump Chick-Fil-A to a 5K race at Short Pump Town Center and a NASCAR race at RIR, there’s a lot to enjoy around town with the […]

April 29, 2011; 9:08 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. Chickenstock

Saturday, April 30

Bring the whole family for this event with music, food, entertainment and more! CHICKENSTOCK II will benefit BARK at Chick-fil-A at Short Pump Crossing. Enjoy live local bands on stage! There’ll be a children’s Carnival with the Big Top Kiddie Play area, Moonbounce, Whirly Bird ride, Kona Ice truck & more! Games, Balloon Scultping, Face Painting, prizes & entertainment from local partners.

Who: All
When: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Chick-Fil-A at Short Pump Crossing
How: Just go!
Cost: FREE

2. Arts in the Park

Saturday, April 30 through Sunday, May 1

More than 450 artists from around the U.S. will gather in Byrd Park to display everything from fine art paintings to jewelry and weavings. Arts in the Park is recognized as one of the top art shows in the country and is an event people around the entire state of Virginia look forward to each year. Free parking is available at the U of R Stadium with free shuttle service.

Who: All
When: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Where: Byrd Park
How: Just go!
Cost: FREE
More info: This Art & Craft exhibit has been a celebration of creativity for over thirty years in the City of Richmond. It takes place on the Mall, and in the shaded groves of Byrd Park surrounding the Carillon. Whether you are looking for unique paintings or crafts, you will find plenty of variety. Woodwork, Glass, Fiber, Ceramics, Jewelry and Paintings are just some of the craft media that are represented here. No pets please.

3. ASK Fun Walk and 5K

Saturday, April 30

On Saturday, April 30th over 1,500 Richmonders will walk and run to honor brave children. After the race, stay for a family-friendly celebration featuring live music, food and fun for all & will honor our survivors with a Kourageous Kids Victory Lap. Can’t join the fun? You can still participate by registering through a “sleep-in” option or making a pledge to a walker or runner.

Who: All
When: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Short Pump Town Center
How: http://www.askwalk.org/asksweet/
Cost: FREE to watch

4. Crown Royal 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Race

Friday, April 29 through Sunday, May 1

NASCAR doubleheader at Richmond International Raceway, featuring the Crown Royal 400 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series and FUNAI 250 NASCAR Nationwide Series races. Friday night is up and comers night!

Who: All
When: 10:00 AM
Where: Richmond International Raceway
How: Call 1-866-455-7223 for tickets and more information
Cost: Kids 12 and under are FREE with paying adult on Friday night, $30 and up for adult tickets
More info: Visit www.rir.com

5. Chalk up The Town

Saturday, April 30

Listen up all RVA people! Carytown is trying to get thousands of people together on a beautiful spring day in April to draw some great sidewalk art with sidewalk chalk. Last year, there were over 1000 people out for the fun. The Mile of Style got even more stylish as artists, young and old, professional and amateur decorated the sidewalks. This year the theme is “What are your hopes and dreams for Richmond.” Think about that theme and then come out and draw it!

Who: All
When: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Carytown
How: Just go!
Cost: FREE
More info: Giving away over 10,000 pieces of chalk to anyone who wants it to draw on the sidewalks in Carytown. So that means you, whomever you are, you can draw something on a square of the sidewalk in Carytown. It’s going to be a fun day as we make the sidewalks beautiful with the colors of spring.