Charlottesville
Charlottesville, Virginia is a small city with deep roots and a lively sense of place. It's home to the University of Virginia, founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819 and now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Jefferson’s Monticello estate. Both sites are working institutions where architecture, education, and ongoing dialogue shape how visitors experience the past. A guided tour of Monticello includes not only Jefferson’s famous inventions but also the powerful stories of the enslaved families who lived and worked on the plantation.
The city’s walkable downtown is anchored by the eight-block pedestrian mall, where historic brick buildings house bookstores, theaters, and independent restaurants. Live music is common, whether it's a busker outside a coffee shop or a national act at the Ting Pavilion. Just a few blocks away, visitors can explore the Jefferson School African American Heritage Center, which preserves the stories of Black communities in Charlottesville and highlights ongoing local contributions to the arts and education.
Learn More About Charlottesville
Nakeya Brown: Refutations Exhibition
From 2/7/2026 - 5/30/2026
Nakeya Brown's photography exhibition, Refutations, delves into the intricate relationship between identity, memory, femininity, family legacy, and the commercialization of cultural assimilation, particularly in the context of Black hair. The event invites attendees to challenge widespread Eurocentric beauty standards, question the definition of "good" hair, and consider the impact of these norms on Black women and girls.
Naked Creek Trail Race
On 3/7/2026
The 4th Annual Naked Creek Trail Race, sponsored by Formula Complete Fitness, is a must-attend event for both seasoned and novice trail runners. The race, which is held on the private, scenic trails of Panorama Farms, offers a unique running experience with breathtaking views of the South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Donna the Buffalo
On 3/7/2026
Donna the Buffalo is a New York-based band. They perform both original and cover versions of songs. A musician buddy offered the name, "Dawn of the Buffalo," for the band, which was misheard as, "Donna the Buffalo," and the band is still known as "Donna the Buffalo" two decades later.
Rhythm of the Dance
On 3/9/2026
The Irish Dance and Musical Spectacular, Rhythm of the Dance, promises an exhilarating experience with world-class musicians, star vocalists, and champion dancers performing live. Attendees will be taken on a captivating journey through Ireland's history, from the ancient and mythical to the modern and urban, all through the lens of traditional and contemporary Irish dance.
Harlem Globetrotters
On 3/12/2026
Basketball is fast-paced, high-scoring, and full of highlight-reel moments. Nothing compares to the live experience — being there in person is way more exciting than watching on TV.
Diana Krall
On 3/22/2026
Diana Krall is a Canadian jazz pianist and singer. Selling over 15 million albums globally, she became the second greatest jazz artist of the 2000-2009 decade according to Billboard magazine. Along with having nine gold, three platinum, and seven multiplatinum albums, she became the only jazz singer to have 8 albums debuting at #1 on Billboard Jazz Albums. She has also won three Grammys and two Juno Awards.
The Haven's Run for Home
On 3/14/2026
Participants can look forward to the 16th annual Haven's Run for Home event, featuring an 8K run and a 4K walk through the historic downtown area. After the race, they are invited to indulge in the legendary post-race breakfast at The Haven.
A Fairy Tale Gathering
On 3/14/2026
Immerse yourself in a magical world with Charlottesville Ballet's A Fairy Tale Gathering, a captivating 45-minute narrated ballet filled with dance, storytelling, and imagination. This family-friendly performance, perfect for young audiences, also includes a whimsical tea party where children can dance with professional artists, pose for photos, and enjoy royal refreshments.
Indie Short Film Festival
From 3/20/2026 - 3/22/2026
This three-day film program promises an immersive experience with over 100 short films on display. Attendees can expect a diverse range of cinematic narratives, offering something for every film enthusiast.
Spring Habitat Walk
On 3/21/2026
Embark on a Spring Habitat Walk to witness the remarkable happenings of nature as it awakens from winter's slumber. This event offers a chance to observe salamander migration, early bird nesting, and signs of plant and tree emergence, all while exploring the diverse habitats of a beautiful garden.
Virginia Festival of the Book
From 3/20/2026 - 3/22/2026
The Virginia Festival of the Book is a celebration of literature and storytelling, featuring a diverse lineup of authors, panels, and workshops. From poetry readings to book signings, this annual event is a must-attend for book lovers of all ages.
The Peking Acrobats
On 3/20/2026
Formed in 1986, the Peking Acrobats are one of the most gifted acrobatic groups from China that keep redefining audience perceptions about acrobatics. They display their technical prowess atop a precarious pagoda of chairs through arts like juggling, gymnastics, and trick-cycling.
Natasha, Pierre, and The Great Comet of 1812
From 3/26/2026 - 4/3/2026
The event features the electropop opera, Natasha, Pierre and The Great Comet of 1812, a daring and innovative creation from the acclaimed composer, Dave Malloy. This award-winning musical, based on a scandalous segment of Leo Tolstoy's War and Peace, offers attendees a bold storytelling experience and a groundbreaking score, exploring the complexities of love, betrayal, and existential crisis.
The Moth
On 3/27/2026
The globally acclaimed storytelling institution, The Moth, is set to captivate Charlottesville with its Mainstage show this Spring. Attendees can expect an evening of extraordinary, true stories from five seasoned storytellers, each exploring the concept of the American Dream through hilarious, moving, illuminating, and astounding narratives.
Super Saturdays at the Garden
On 3/28/2026
At this open house-style event, community members are invited to explore various programs, contribute to site stewardship, join a tour, or enjoy the serenity of nature. One Saturday a month, there will be up to three scheduled activities at the Garden, with staff and volunteers readily available to answer questions and share exciting plans for the Garden.
Charlottesville Ten Miler
On 3/28/2026
The Charlottesville Ten Miler is Central Virginia's premier foot race, presenting a picturesque yet challenging route through the heart of a historic city. It's an ideal event for both seasoned runners and those aiming to conquer their first long-distance race, offering a unique way to soak in the beauty and spirit of Charlottesville.
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks™ Live Glow-N-Fire
On 3/28/2026
Hot Wheels Monster Trucks™ Live Glow-N-Fire is an electrifying live show that brings the world of Hot Wheels to life with an exciting display of monster truck action. The show features giant trucks with glowing, fire-breathing performances, thrilling stunts, and high-flying action that will leave fans on the edge of their seats. Perfect for the whole family, this high-energy event combines the spectacle of monster trucks with a colorful, larger-than-life experience that captures the imagination of both kids and adults alike.
Chamomile & Whiskey
On 3/14/2026
Chamomile & Whiskey is a rock 'n roll band from Virginia that has the unique capability to express the struggles of life without getting too heavy or too light. Their most popular tracks include "Blue Ridge Girl," "Wandering Boots," and "Nelson County."
Ryan Caraveo
On 3/31/2026
Ryan Caraveo is an American hip-hop musician and rapper, born on December 19, 1992. He was born in Seattle, WA. He gained fame through his SoundCloud and YouTube accounts. His debut album, Swings, was released in December 2014.