(Cone parade photo above by Dave Parrish Photography)
It’s entirely possible that as the final countdown to Christmas winds down, some of us are already Christmas-ed out.
Considering that the season of Santa and all things merry now begins somewhere around the moment we finish our Halloween candy, it’s perfectly normal to be looking for things to do that have nothing to do with packages, tinsel or eggnog.
Here, then, is an assortment of seasonal activities that require zero Christmas spirit.
The winter solstice marks the end of fall and the start of winter, inspiring the early pagans to celebrate the “birth of the sun” as the days begin to lengthen. AlterNatives in Carytown is celebrating the return of the sun, incrementally speaking, of course, with food, drink and small ceremonies. Whether it’s eating winter solstice foods, lighting lanterns or setting intentions for the new season, acknowledging the solstice and the shortest day of the year could become your new favorite tradition. Thursday, Dec. 21, 6 p.m. Details.
Okay, this one happens to fall on the day that shall not be mentioned but has no holiday significance whatsoever. The 10th Annual Urban Bike Ride and afterparty is a leisurely 10ish mile bike ride with several stops along the way, capped with an afterparty at 4 p.m. Whether you’re celebrating the holidays solo or just looking for a convenient escape from forced family fun, this all urban, social street ride put on by RVA Mountain Bikes is suitable for all cycling levels. And anyone can party, whether they ride or not. Monday, Dec. 25, 1 p.m. Details
Kwanzaa was established in 1966 at the height of the Civil Rights era as part of the Black Freedom Movement’s rising consciousness. Kwanzaa is a Pan-African year-end holiday of remembrance, thanksgiving and recommitment to cultural values. Richmond’s Capital City Kwanzaa Festival, presented by Elegba Folklore Society at the Convention Center, is one of the largest on the East Coast, and features performances, workshops and children’s activities. It all takes place on Saturday, Dec. 30 from 1-7 p.m. Details
Help keep Richmond weird by welcoming the new year with prosperity and positive energy as part of the Cone Parade. No registration required, but you do have to show up in a cone. Need inspiration? Check out the Cone Parade’s website for instructions on how to make a body-sized cone and the rest is up to your imagination. The parade starts in front of the Aquarian Bookshop in Carytown and marches down Cary Street to Boulevard and back. Organizers warn that if you’re type who takes yourself very seriously, the Cone Parade is probably not for you. January 1, noon. Details
The First Day Hike is a longstanding tradition at Pocahontas State Park, a way to set fitness goals for the upcoming year and take advantage of free parking for the day. Best of all, you can choose your own adventure because of the variety of hikes available, including –wait for it—a New Year’s Eve Night Hike from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. It could be worth it for bragging rights alone. For those who prefer daylight for walking in the woods, choose from a sunrise hike, a sensory hike, a Swift Creek Dam hike and a trail-mix hike, offering a mix of the most popular trails. Only the New Year’s Eve hike requires reservations. December 31 and January 1, various times. Details
After months of being subjected to Wham! and Paul McCartney ad nauseum, you may need to reset your brain with real music on New Year’s Day. Orbital Music Park presents their Blues Night to kick off 2024, an election year, so guaranteed to be a blues-worthy year. Curated by OMP, all levels of musicianship are welcome, even if it’s just playing bongos. They make it easy by providing instruments including drums, bass and amp, baby grand piano, guitar amps, Hammond organ, as well as a full PA with microphones. Not musical? Audience participation is encouraged, whether it’s dancing in your seat or feet. Monday, Jan. 1, 7:30 p.m. Details
If you’re looking to work off some of that holiday weight gain, there’s the Richmond Road Runners Club 1st Day 5K to show your body that it’s a whole new year and you’re planning on getting serious. Winding through the southside neighborhood of Roxshire, the route is flat and fast with one water stop. Keep in mind, no headphones, strollers, dogs, skateboards, skates or bikes. Sign up if you want to run to launch 2024. Monday, Jan. 1, 11 a.m. Details
