If you’ve ever wished you could step into the pages of a history book and experience the past firsthand, Richmond’s newest event might just be your dream come true. On May 17, the Virginia Museum of History & Culture (VMHC) will host the inaugural HistoryFest, a one-of-a-kind celebration designed to make history exciting, immersive, and — best of all — accessible to everyone no matter how much you know about history.
Created by the educational innovators at Thoughtful Productions, HistoryFest reimagines what a day at the museum can look like. Visitors will enjoy music, live performances, and even sample wine and ice cream as they learn about various topics from renown subject matter experts. With 15 unique experiences packed into one unforgettable day, HistoryFest offers history buffs the chance to learn, explore, and have fun together.
History That Jumps Off the Page
From presidential wine tastings to vintage cars, Broadway-inspired performances to reenactments of the Underground Railroad, the festival invites guests of all ages to become part of history — not just observe it. According to Steven Schragis, co-founder of Thoughtful Productions and the visionary behind some of Richmond’s most popular educational events, HistoryFest is meant to “challenge, surprise, and inspire.”
“Imagine an electrifying day where history leaps off the page and comes to life,” says Schragis. “This event was designed to feature a wide range of subjects, from Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo to Thomas Jefferson and Winston Churchill.”
Something for Everyone
In addition to presentations, visitors will receive access to all museum exhibitions — including “Give Me Liberty: Virginia & The Forging of a Nation,” a major new feature exploring Virginia’s critical role in shaping the United States. Using immersive multimedia, the exhibit brings to life the stories of both well-known and unsung heroes who helped found the nation.
VMHC President and CEO Jamie Bosket sees HistoryFest as a way to open the doors of the museum to a wider audience. “Our team consistently looks for ways to provide unexpected and extraordinary experiences,” says Bosket. “HistoryFest is a creative way to invite people into the museum who otherwise might not visit.”
By pairing academic insight with hands-on fun, this event promises to be both educational and entertaining.
Plan Your Visit
HistoryFest takes place May 17 at the Virginia Museum of History & Culture in Richmond. A single ticket includes access to all exhibits, presentations, and immersive experiences. Whether you come to learn about classic films, the American Revolution, Broadway shows, or the history of ice cream, you’re sure to leave with a new appreciation for the people, ideas, and stories that shaped our world. To learn more or purchase tickets, visit VirginiaHistory.org/HistoryFest2025.
