Richmond’s Must-See Summer Events

As temperatures rise and school wraps up for the year, Richmond residents and visitors of all ages are looking forward to summer fun. Take full advantage of your summer in Richmond with the city’s must-see summer events. Find just a few that the city has to offer below!

Spring Into History High Tea

When: Sunday, May 23, 6-8 pm

Where: White Hall Historic Site

 

Calling all history buffs! On the evening of May 23, White Hall is hosting its Spring Into History! High Tea. Enjoy an evening of tea, celebrating spring, conversation with friends, and most of all, history. The beautiful mansion at White Hall was the home of famed 19th century emancipations, minister to Russia, and newspaper publisher Cassius Marcellus Clay. Get your tickets today.

Summer Music Series 2021

When: Friday Nights, May 28-August 27; 7-10 pm

Where: Richmond Centre

 

Looking for something to do on Friday nights? Look no further than the Richmond Centre! Beginning on May 28 and running until August 27, the Summer Music Series at the Richmond Centre will be set up at the Richmond Centre’s fountain near Buffalo Wild Wings. The outdoor concert series features live music from regional artists such as Lauren Mink, West Wind Drive (formerly known as Frontier), Silver Creek Band, Honeychild, and more. This annual event is presented by Robbins Law Firm and supported by the Richmond Area Arts Council. Social distancing is required and the event organizers ask that guests wear a mask when moving around the area. Find the full lineup on the RAAC Facebook page.

 

Bluegrass River Run 

When: Saturday, May 28, 9 am – 2 pm

Where: The beach at Fort Boonesborough

 

This summer, grab a kayak, stand up paddle board, or canoe and join the fifth annual Bluegrass River Run (BRR), a celebration of the Kentucky River. The event launches from the beach at Fort Boonesborough State Park, and allows participants three different ways to experience the incredible beauty of the river cliffs and fun with fellow paddlers. The mainstay of the BRR is the scenic 6-mile Float Trip. Those who want more of a challenge can try the 19-mile Boonesborough to Valley View Challenge or the 6-mile Clay Ferry’s Run. Both races are part of the 2021 Waterman Series, a regional paddlesports racing series. If you don’t have a boat to bring, no worries! There will be plenty of canoes, kayaks, and SUPs for rent. Sign up to save your spot!

U.S. 25 Yard Sale

When: June 3-5

Where: Along U.S. 25, Richwood to Corbin, KY

 

Play treasure hunter for a weekend! The 10th annual U.S. 25 yard sale is back June 3-5. Browse hundreds of yard sales along 200 miles of U.S. 25, spanning from Richwood to Corbin, KY. Stay local or make it a road trip! For more information about events in Madison, Rockcastle, and Laurel Counties, contact Randy Coffey at (859) 779-3005. 

July 4th Celebration at Lake Reba

When: July 4

Where: Lake Reba Recreational Complex

 

Looking for a way to celebrate the fourth with family and friends? The July 4th Celebration at Lake Reba is back! Come out and enjoy an evening of fireworks and a concert from Texan country-rock band the Powell Brothers. The fourth at Lake Reba is not only a celebration of our nation’s birthday, but also the founding of the city of Richmond. Be on the lookout for more details about this event.

Hops and Vines Festival

When: Saturday, July 24, 6:00 pm 

Where: 228 South Second Street

 

After a year-long hiatus due to COVID-19, the Hops and Vines Festival is back! The craft beer festival is hosted annually by Apollo Pizza. Head downtown on July 24 to enjoy craft beer, great food, and a marathon of your favorite 80s hits played by the band Retrobution. Check out the Facebook event for updates

Pops in the Park 2021

When: Aug. 21, 5:00

Where: White Hall Historic Site

 

Also back after a one-year absence is Pops in the Park! Enjoy an evening at White Hall with music, fireworks, and fun. The gates will open at 5:00 with the Madison Community Band, conducted by John Stroube, performing at 8:00. Then, see out the summer with a bang with fireworks at 10:00. Due to COVID restrictions, there will be no table judging this year. Tickets will go on sale at the Chamber of Commerce at a later date – purchase a blanket seat for $10 per person, a table of 6 for $150, or a table of 8 for $200. Follow the Pops in the Park Facebook page for updates.

 

Battle of Richmond Reenactment

When: Aug. 28-29, 10 am – 4 pm

Where: 1546 Battlefield Memorial HWY

 

Witness living history later this summer! The Battle of Richmond Reenactment is on for the weekend of August 28 at the Battle of Richmond Museum and Visitor’s Center.  On the 159th anniversary of the battle, witness the confederacy’s most concerted effort to capture the commonwealth of Kentucky. Re-enactments will take place each day at 2:00. Learn more about the history of the battle at battleofrichmond.com

 

Watch for more summer events as details are finalized.