5 Things for Families

Now that the holidays are melting away from the events calendar, space is clearing up for new and different ways to spend family time. This week’s options include dance performances, a day trip, LEGO instruction, and some roller derby lessons.

January 8, 2014; 6:16 AM • by Kelly Gerow

1. Legend of the Poinsettia

The Latin Ballet of Virginia’s annual performance of the Legend of the Poinsettia–about a young girl’s discovery of the spirit of giving (weeds turn into poinsettias!)–begins this Thursday.

Thursday, January 9th through Sunday, January 12th • see website for show times
Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen, 2880 Mountain Road
$15-20

2. Commonwealth Roller Derby

Commonwealth Roller Derby is a recreational league that offers a Junior Division for kids age 7 through 17, in addition to an adult league. Kids have an option to compete in scrimmage games, but can also build roller derby and skating skills. Adult enrollment is open throughout the season, but enrollment for the kid’s division ends January 20th. Roller Derby sounds like a good idea if you want to enhance your kid’s badassness and have a sports option that doesn’t take up your weekend mornings.

Fridays, 4:30 — 6:30 PM and Mondays, 7:00 — 9:00 PM
Skateland of Richmond, 5512 Hull Street Road
$35 a month or $5 per practice

3. LEGO Club

Every present-receiving household probably got at least one LEGO set. Get building tips from Lego sculptor Zhyeff during Lego Club, which meets on the second Saturday of each month (for kids ages 6-18).

Saturday, January 11th • 11:30 AM
Richmond Public Library Main Branch, 101 E. Franklin Street
Free

4. Dogwood Dance Project

Dogwood Dance Project’s annual concert showcases individual and group performances from the dance company and guest artists. Dogwood Dance Project was founded by four James Madison University dance graduates, and teaches and performs statewide.

Saturday, January 11 • 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Dogtown Dance Theatre, 109 W. 15th Street
$12 for adults, $5 for children 10 and under

5. Virginia Discovery Museum

If you’re the type of person to take advantage of the bustling holiday season around town, you’re also probably a little Richmonded-out. You’ve done all the museums, seen the shows, and seen everyone. Now see what Charlottesvillians are tired of by going to the Virginia Discovery Museum. It’s akin to the Children’s Museum of Richmond except instead of a Ukrop’s play area, there’s a Panera Bread (of course, Charlottesville) and other related exhibits. The museum is located on the Downtown Mall, which is about as kid-friendly as a place can get, with lots of open spaces for running around, a giant chalkboard wall (it has symbolic purpose, but that doesn’t mean it’s not perfect for nonsense scribble), and good restaurant choices for the family. My suggesting Charlottesville is like Leslie Knope on “Parks and Recreation” talking about Eagleton, so just take my recommendation and let’s never discuss it again.