What an exciting time to be a Richmonder (or a visitor to our fabulous city)!
It’s felt a bit like stepping into another city as I’ve visited our new (or newish) gems, Allianz Amphitheater and CarMax Park. And when the Tall Ships arrive in June, it will be like stepping back in time. We’re certainly firing on all cylinders in RVA, and we’re taking you inside all the action in our summer kickoff issue.
First up, Hannah Nowack takes us inside CarMax Park, the Flying Squirrels’ stunning new home, and looks back at the history of baseball in Richmond. If you haven’t visited the new stadium yet, be sure to check it out this summer. They really thought of everything when they designed it, and you’ll want to go back again and again since the many seating options offer a different experience with every visit. You can even catch a home run ball now with the 360-degree seating, one of the biggest differences from The Diamond. While I loved being spoiled in the CarMax suite for my first visit, I’m looking forward to taking in a game or two on the terrace lawn — just $10 for standing room only tickets where there’s usually room to spread out a blanket and enjoy the game under the stars.
Next up, have you heard? The Tall Ships are coming! To celebrate America’s 250th birthday, Virginia Museum of History & Culture and the City of Richmond are hosting Richmond SailFest, a three-day festival that will feature ship tours, live music and performances, historical re-enactors, exhibitions of history and art, and much more. I’m excited for it all, but especially the evening of Saturday, June 13, which will end with an epic display of fireworks over the James River! Joan Tupponce gives us the details, starting on page 40.
Also, Emily Wise has the scoop on the latest craze that isn’t actually new at all — Mahjong (page 50)! We look at the game’s history, the basics of the game, and where to play around Richmond. I haven’t played yet, but I’d like to give it a try this summer, so if you’re a Mahjong player, hit me up with some tips!
Page 56 is where you’ll find your ultimate RVA spring and summer planner — our community calendar! With even more events on our website, we’re here to help you find things to do for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and any day you’re looking for family fun, date night ideas, or a gals’ day out on the town.
I’m looking forward to having my mom here with us for Mother’s Day this year. It will be the first time we’ve lived under the same roof on Mother’s Day since I was a kid, so it will be an extra special day for us.
We’re wishing all the great moms and dads out there a happy Mother’s Day and happy Father’s Day and hope you enjoy this issue and the start of summer in RVA!
Best wishes,
Margaret Thompson
Founder & Publisher
