5 Things for Families

The start of meteorological summer will bring lower temperatures to Richmond this weekend–because that’s just how we do things in this town! At least the less jungly weather will make these awesome haps even awesomer. Take a gander…

May 28, 2014; 7:19 AM • by Valerie Catrow

1. 39th Annual Richmond Greek Festival

There’s probably some law on the books that says your kids can’t claim Richmonder status if they haven’t spent time sweating in the parking lot of Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral while waiting for baklava and grape leaves. Might as well check this one off the list.

Thursday, May 29th through Sunday, June 1st • see website for daily hours
Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, 30 Malvern Avenue
Free admission; see menu for food options and pricing

2. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

I read the novel on which this play is based earlier this year and adored it so much. In this live broadcast from The National Theatre of London, you’ll get to meet Christopher, a 15-year-old boy with “an extraordinary brain – exceptional at maths while ill-equipped to interpret everyday life”, as he works to solve the mystery of what happened to Wellington, his neighbor’s dog. There are some PG themes in the story, so best leave the really little ones at home–but I think you and your teens will love it.

Thursday, May 29th • 7:30 PM
Booker Hall of Music at University of Richmond
$7-$14

3. America’s Best Storytellers

I’d expect a BIG eye roll from your kids when you suggest this event, but I encourage you to press on. Storytelling is an art, and this three-day event is sure to help your kids really understand that as award-winning storytellers from all over America (including Donald Davis, Barbara McBride Smith, and Rex Ellis) do their respective thangs.

Friday, May 30th through Sunday, June 1st; see website for schedule
First Baptist Church, 2709 Monument Avenue
$5-$35; see website for pricing options (net proceeds will be donated to Stop Hunger Now)

4. Parent’s Night Out at Cartwheels & Coffee

Drop the kids off for a night of games, pizza, and other fun activities (all taking place under the supervision of First Aid/CPR certified caretakers) and go about your business. Have dink! Go see a movie! Sit in your car in blissful silence! Whatever! Just makes sure you register by Thursday, March 29th.

Friday, May 30th • 5:30 — 8:30 PM
Cartwheels & Coffee, 2820 W. Cary Street
$25 for the first child; $15 for each additional child

5. Family Fit Day

This inaugural event hosted by The Faces of Hope will offer a variety of fitness stations and activities that promote exercise and a healthy lifestyle. So come on down and run those kids ragged for a good cause.