Whether your 2025 goals include exploring more of Richmond, sticking to a budget, or spending more time as a family; I’ve got you covered. There are several opportunities in our region for free fun this month. As always, these are places my family has personally experienced, and I feel good about recommending to you. I am also including all the details on how to access these experiences for free, as some have certain restrictions.
Frank J. Thornton Aquatic Center
Visit this state-of-the-art aquatic center in Henrico for free, if you’re a Henrico resident. Check the YMCA Richmond app before visiting to ensure hours, availability, and to register. If you live in Henrico County, you can swim at the Thornton YMCA Aquatic Center for FREE on Saturdays and Sundays from 2:30 – 4:30 p.m. You just need a YMCA account to swim, which you can get for free here. If you do not live in Henrico, but are a YMCA member, this facility is included with your membership.
Agecroft Gardens
The gardens of Agecroft Hall and Gardens are free throughout January and February. Bundle up and enjoy the river views from the Woodland Walk, run through the maze, and take in the gorgeous 16th century gem right here in RVA! This is a great spot to start if you’re hoping to hike more with your children this year. (Thursday – Sunday, noon – 5PM)
Science Museum of Virginia
SMV will host a Teacher Resource Fair on January 11. Teachers are invited to learn about field trips to SMV and connect with organizations around Virginia that can offer support and resources. Teachers always have free admission to Science Museum of Virginia, but on this day, teachers may bring up to 3 guests and catch a movie at the Dome (while supplies last). This is of course a great opportunity to learn about planning a field trip to the Science Museum, but if you bring your family along, you can see if a membership would be a good idea for your family. Pre-register to save your spot!
Bella Ballerina
Join Bella Ballerina for a free pop-up class on January 16 at Children’s Museum of Richmond – Chesterfield. While admission to CMoR is required, the class is included at no extra cost. This would be a great way to see if your child would like to pursue dance classes, and a new way to enjoy the museum.
National Parks
On January 20, you can visit all National Parks for free in honor of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. In Richmond, I’d recommend visiting Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site and Cold Harbor Battlefield; however, these are free every day. So, to take advantage of free admission, consider driving to North Carolina to visit the Wright Brothers National Memorial, or head to northern Virginia to hike at Great Falls National Park. I’m a huge National Park enthusiast; you can read more about visiting national parks here.
Richmond Performing Arts Alliance – Lights Up! Youth Series
The Genworth Lights Up! Youth Series is for ages 3-18, offering completely free, high-quality programming. No performing arts background is needed to participate in the workshops. My children love the Lights Up! workshops. Previously, they tried singing in a recording studio, dancing, screen printing, and more. Pre-registration is encouraged. The next one is on January 25 at 10AM. Here’s the full schedule.
Ongoing Free Events
Lowe’s and Home Depot offer free workshops the first Saturday of the month. No registration is required for these events.
Local libraries have a plethora of activities for all ages. Find events at the library on the RFM calendar.
Trail Kids RVA is a non-profit organization that brings families together through hiking around Richmond. Hikes are led by caregivers familiar with the trail and the challenges and benefits that come with hiking with children. Follow @trailkidsrva to register for a hike.
