Five top art Experiences in Richmond, VA: October is artoberVA!

Richmond has long been known as a city where creativity thrives. From world-class murals to nationally recognized tattoo artists, RVA is a hub for all forms of expression. This October, you’ll find even more ways to connect with Richmond’s art community thanks to artoberVA, a month-long celebration of arts and culture across the region. Whether you’re looking to explore museums, see live music, or dive deep into tattoo culture, here are five ways to experience art in Richmond this fall.

1. Celebrate artoberVA

Presented by CultureWorks, artoberVA brings together over 1,000 experiences from more than 100 artists, venues, and organizations. From dance performances and concerts to visual art shows and theatre, it’s a true showcase of our community’s creativity. Beyond entertainment, artoberVA has a real impact. It boosts the local economy, enriches the cultural fabric of the region, and expands access to the arts through education and outreach. Learn more about all of the programs happening this month here.

2. Experience the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention

Back for another unforgettable year, the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention (Oct 17th – 19th) is more than just ink. It’s a celebration of community and creativity. World-renowned artists like hosts Jesse Smith and Ryan Ashley return, bringing together local, national, and international talent for a three-day weekend of art, tattoos, family, and fun. Guests can meet their favorite artists, shop unique local vendors, watch live paintings, and attend classes to learn from the experts at the Arts Academy. Tattoo culture is a huge part of Richmond’s identity, and this event highlights how history and innovation collide in one of the city’s most exciting art traditions. Get your tickets and full schedule at richmondtattooconvention.com.

3. Catch Live Music Around the City

Music is everywhere in Richmond during October. Venues like Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront  The National, The Richmond Symphony,  The Broadberry, Ember Music Hall, and Richmond Music Hall host shows nearly every night, featuring everything from national touring acts to local favorites. Pair your evening with food and drink from nearby restaurants, and you’ve got a perfect RVA night out.

4. Visit Richmond’s Art Museums

Richmond’s museums are works of art themselves. Explore the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts for world-class collections and rotating exhibitions, step into the Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU for cutting-edge works, or wander the Valentine Museum to learn more about the city’s history through an artistic lens. Each space offers a different way to connect with creativity.

5. Take a Mural Tour

Richmond is home to over 150 murals, making it one of the best open-air galleries in the country. Stroll through neighborhoods like Carytown, Jackson Ward, and the Arts District to spot large-scale works by local and international artists. Don’t miss iconic pieces by Humble, DKANE, Chris Visions, Hamilton Glass, Nico Cathcart, and others. Each mural tells a story and adds vibrant energy to our streets. The Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention features local and national mural artists in our annual Live Art for Charity event. This year, Live Art for Charity paintings will be auctioned off to support local nonprofit Studio Two Three.

Join the Celebration of Art in RVA

Art is everywhere in Richmond, and October is the perfect time to experience it all. Explore more events through the artoberVA website and don’t miss your chance to be part of the Richmond Tattoo & Arts Convention. Get tickets and plan your weekend at richmondtattooconvention.com.