In light of recent events at the University of Richmond, Greek organization leaders sent out a mass e-mail on September 13, 2016, announcing "no lodges or off-campus parties will be held this coming weekend." They encouraged students to "take this time to reflect on the recent campus climate" and acknowledged that "sexual misconduct, is, unfortunately, a prevalent issue on our campus." The e-mail was concluded with the statement, "It is time that we come together and foster positive change."
The student body wasted no time in expressing their wide spectrum of emotions. While some stood 100 percent by the Greek organization leaders' decision, others felt frustrated, claiming cancelling Greek activities suggests the Greek community is at fault for sexual assault incidents. Others fell somewhere in between, content with the cancellation of lodges and parties, but hesitant to believe one weekend will create sustainable change.
Despite differing opinions, the decision has been made and there is nothing to gain by dwelling on one party-less weekend. However, there is much to gain from exploring the city of Richmond this weekend!
Here are 10 exciting things to do in Richmond this weekend!
1. The 58th Armenian Food Festival
The 58th Annual Armenian Food Festival will be taking place this September 16-18, 2016 at St. James Armenian Church, on the corner of Patterson and Pepper Avenues. According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, "it's the last great food festival of the season," and attendees can look forward to enjoying "homemade Armenian delicacies like spinach boregs, stuffed grape leaves and chicken kebabs." In addition to delicious food, there will be live entertainment and dance performances!
2. 43rd Street Festival of the Arts
The 43rd annual Street Festival of the Arts will take place on Saturday, September 17, 2016 from 10am-5pm on Forest Hill Avenue and 43rd Street. There will be musical performances by Blue Line Highway, Janet Martin, and numerous other artists, as well as fine arts, food and games. All proceeds from the event will go toward Caritas, an organization which works to end homelessness and addiction in the Metro Richmond area.
3. Camp-Out: Creatures of the James
This Saturday and Sunday, September 17 and 18, the Maymont organization will hold a camping event on Maymont Grounds. It is $40 per person and "includes an evening hike through the estate in search of native nocturnal creatures" and the opportunity to meet Maymont's animal ambassadors. There will also be s'mores and stories around the campfire, along with continental breakfast and a morning hike! Come on, who doesn't love nature, stories, and some toasted marshmallows?
4. RABA 2016 "Heart of Virginia Century"
This event will take place on Saturday, September 17, at the historic Hanover County Courthouse. Individuals can sign up to participate in the bike ride for $55. The registration fees include "high-energy refreshments at all rest stops, sag/repair vehicles, cue sheets/maps and route markings for all routes and a great lunch." There are various courses participants can sign up for such as the Century (102 miles), Metric century (65.5 Miles), Half Metric Century (34 Miles), and Family (10 Miles). It will be a beautiful day to get some nice cardio in!
5. "Dracula" at Quill Theater
This classic novel, "Dracula," will be brought to life this weekend at Libby S. Gottwald Playhouse on 600 E Grace Street. The program promises it to be a "suspenseful, sultry, and spine-tingling" performance with "strobe and fog effects." Shows will begin on Friday and Saturday at 7pm and student tickets are offered at a discounted price, $17. Turn off the Netflix for one night and come out to an up close and personal show!
6. Exhibits at Art Works
This weekend is the last one to catch the exhibits at Art Works on 320 Hull St.! These exhibits are completely free and open to the public. Much of the art work comes from an art fundraiser, "Dog Days of Summer" in late August 2016. If you love dogs and you love art, this is the place for you!
7. Live Trivia and Karaoke
Let's be real. Who doesn't love some fun trivia and singing at the top of their lungs? Well, you can do just that if you head down to The Locker Room Bar & Grill on 5035 Forest Hill Ave from 7pm to 1am. Enjoy some delicious food with the company of good friends. Oh, and the best part-- participating in the trivia and karaoke is free!
8. Haunts of Richmond - Shadows of Shockoe Tour
Tired of laying in bed and watching the same anticlimactic scary movies? Well, go to Haunts of Richmond Ghost Tours Friday or Saturday from 9pm-10:30pm. A "ghost host" will guide you on a night time exploration of Shockhoe Bottom and Capitol Hill areas of Richmond, while sharing ten mysterious, terrifying paranormal tales. The stories range from The Great Theatre Fire to the Civil War Hospitals and many more. The event is $16, but pre-purchase discounts are available on the website and group discounts are available for groups of six plus. Get your friends together for a good scare!
9. The Byrd Theatre
If you're looking for a cheap date or outing with friends, the Byrd Theatre is the place to be. The Byrd Theatre is a unique, vintage theater for only $1.99 per person! Movies playing this weekend include "Finding Dory," "Lights Out," "Jason Bourne," and others that can be found on their website!
10. Belle Isle
Last but not least, Belle Isle, one of the most beautiful places in Richmond lies right down the road. There is nothing better than having a picnic alongside the James River, soaking in the warm summer sun while it lasts. Additional features include "wooded trails, mountain biking trails, fishing, and a granite wall for rock climbing." Belle Isle is the perfect place for outdoor adventures and memories!
What are your plans for the weekend? What other activities will you be taking advantage of in RIchmond?
