Heart & Soul, Your Guide to Black Virginia

Upcoming Events

From block parties to legendary music festivals to restaurant weeks, Virginians know how to celebrate. See what’s coming up on the calendar and plan your trip to coincide with a classic or up-and-coming cultural event in Virginia.

April 17-19, 2026

The Skipwith-Roper Homecoming

The Skipwith-Roper Homecoming is an initiative to reconstruct the home of Abraham Peyton Skipwith who is considered "The Founding Father of Jackson Ward."

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June 6, 2026

Descendant's Day at James Monroe's Highland

The Highland Council of Descendant Advisors welcomes all attendees, descendants or not, to take part in the festivities. Enjoy music, food, and presentations from community groups.

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June 6, 2026

R&B is for Lovers

R&B is for Lovers Festival isn’t just a festival—it’s an experience. Enjoy live bands, DJs, food, full bar, vendors, and immersive vibes. Lost in the Flowers at Elmwood Park.

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June 19-20, 2026

Family Day for Juneteenth at Mount Vernon

Celebrate freedom and heritage at Mount Vernon’s Family Day for Juneteenth. Learn about the enslaved people who fought for their freedom before Emancipation. Enjoy educational activities, storytelling, live performances, and crafts that honor the history and culture of Juneteenth.

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June 20, 2026

Jazzteenth

JazzTeenth is a Juneteenth cultural celebration rooted in music, history, and community connection.

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June 26-28, 2026

Hampton Jazz Festival

Held at the iconic Hampton Coliseum, this legendary festival brings together the best names in music for every generation of music lovers. From smooth jazz to soulful R&B, it’s a weekend of timeless sound and good vibes.

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July 16-19, 2026

Black Pride RVA

Join a powerful weekend of love, unity, and celebration at Black Pride RVA. This multi-day event uplifts BIPOC LGBTQ+ voices through parties, panels, performances, and healing spaces. Come for the joy, stay for the community—it’s all about empowerment, connection, and unapologetic pride.

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July 19, 2026

Sail250 Virginia

Hampton will offer outstanding ship-watching opportunities from 9:00am to noon as tall ships, many in full sail, make their way to the harbors of Norfolk for Sail250 Virginia! This milestone maritime festival – Sail250® Virginia – will include more than 60 ships from 20 countries, bringing 7,000 visiting sailors, officers, and dignitaries to Virginia’s shores. Festivities of the day will take place along the waterfront of historic Fort Monroe and will include historical exhibits, cultural…

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August 8-9, 2026

Richmond Jazz and Music Festival

Every summer Maymont welcomes some of the biggest names in music to the Richmond Jazz Festival. Enjoy three days of local flavors, beautiful weather, and the best jazz, R&B, and soul artists.

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August 10-17, 2026

Soul of CVILLE

Celebrate Black excellence in Charlottesville at the 5th annual Soul of Cville Festival!

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August 22, 2026

African Landing Day

Held each August at Fort Monroe, African Landing Day honors the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619. The day features powerful speakers, music, African drumming, and cultural performances. It’s a moment of reflection, remembrance, and celebration. Pro tip: Arrive early for the commemorative ceremony.

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Saturdays in the Summer

Downtown Hampton Block Party

The Downtown Hampton Block Party is a lively community event filled with music, food vendors, local art, and family fun. Gather with neighbors to enjoy live entertainment, dance, and explore the vibrant culture of Hampton’s historic downtown. Perfect for a night of connection and celebration.

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September 12, 2026

Run Richmond 16.19

Experience 400 years of Black history in Richmond during this walk-run event put on by the Djimon Hounsou Foundation. The race takes participants on a historic route prompting reflections about shared ancestry and the path towards unity.

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October 3-4, 2026

2nd Street Festival

The streets of Jackson Ward come alive each October as Richmond celebrates the 2nd Street Festival. With multiple stages, food vendors, a marketplace for local artist, and a kids area, you can party all weekend long. Pro tip: Bring a folding chair to take in the music.

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October 16-18, 2026

Go Outside Festival

Embrace the outdoors at Roanoke’s three‑day GO Outside Festival—bike, hike, paddle, climb, race, or sample craft beer. Catch pro-athlete demos, live music, family-friendly zones, and gear try‑outs across downtown and Mill Mountain.

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November 7, 2026

Two Up Wine Down Festival

Sip, snack, and celebrate wine at Jefferson School African American Heritage Center. Enjoy an afternoon of wine tasting featuring Virginia’s finest varietals, local DJ's, and a marketplace spotlighting BIPOC wine pros and artisans.

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Multiple Dates

Richmond Night Market

Shop at this open-air night market on the second Saturday of the month, April through December. Meet dozens of makers, groove to live music, and enjoy the festivities. Come for the shopping, stay for the vibes.

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Multiple Dates

Not Your Average Everything

From AfroBeats and R&B parties to tailgates and festivals, NYA Events by Humble Hustle turn up the fun while giving back. Proceeds support local programs, so every ticket helps the community thrive. Keep an eye on their socials to catch the next big event—they’re anything but average.

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Multiple Dates

UnlockingRVA

Unlocking RVA hosts various events around Richmond including Silent Discos at 17th Street Market and Brunch on the Plaza. These tailored events connect Richmond to local businesses and most importantly each other.

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