Right Around the River Blog

Enjoy Rocketts Landing Events in 2014

Post Date: 03-05-2014
Each year, our riverfront community comes alive with a plethora of outdoor events. From regattas to triathlons to fundraisers and beyond, nearly every type of RVA activity seems to find life here. And for 2014, our Rocketts Landing events are back in full action, so mark your calendars. We’re in for another rockin’ year along the James River!



APRIL

  • VCU Collegiate Regatta — April 26th

Our event season kicks off with a regatta hosted by VCU Crew. This annual rowing event — in its sixth year at Rocketts Landing — attracts collegiate crew teams from across the region in a daylong race on the river. VCU alumni also get a chance to test their rowing muscles and reconnect with some friendly competitive rivalry. So, come out and root for your favorite collegiate team!

MAY

  • Cap2Cap Bike Ride — May 10th **Richmond.com “Best of Outdoors Favorite”

The Virginia Capital Trail Foundation hosts this annual bike ride, which raises funds for the much anticipated Virginia Capital Trail. Thousands participate in a family-friendly ride through our urban landscape and neighboring rolling countryside. Followed by a lively afterparty, Cap2Cap also features a custom-brewed ale by local Hardywood Park Brewery: Virginia Capital Trail Pale Ale (for the second year!). Cycling, partying and custom-brew tasting for a great cause? Don’t mind if we do.


  • Rocketts Red Glare  – May 25th

Richmond’s only Memorial Day celebration with fireworks along the James River is back for its third year at Rocketts Landing! This fun-filled event brings thousands to the riverfront to oooh and ahhh as fireworks burst over the river. You can also enjoy live music, local craft drinks and food — and of course, plenty of picture-taking moments!

JUNE

  • Boxer Brief Battle 5k – June 7th

In its second year, the Boxer Brief Battle is a 5k run/walk that raises funds for colon cancer research, preventive screenings and advocacy. Hosted by local nonprofit Hitting Cancer Below the Belt, runners wind through the Rocketts Landing riverfront while wearing boxers and other quirky costumes. Come out to participate or support this fun event for an important cause!

  • Rocketts Landing Sprints Regatta – June 21st

Nothing says summer at Rocketts Landing better than rowing on the James River. Hosted by the Virginia Boat Club, our annual Sprints Regatta attracts crew clubs from across the Greater Atlantic region. Expect strong rowing competition — and strong rowers lifting their shells in and out of the water with impressive synchronicity (that alone is a great feat!). Open to the public, you can enjoy a great day along the river with an afterparty celebration and cookout!

AUGUST

  • Dragon Boat Festival – August 2nd **Richmond.com “Best of Outdoors Favorite”

Sportsbackers’ annual International Dragon Boat festival combines a cultural event with competitive paddling in canoe-like boats featuring exquisite dragon heads. This family-friendly event includes dragon-boat racing, traditional Chinese performances, food and more! You can sign up to compete or simply come out to enjoy the festivities.

SEPTEMBER

  • Massey on the River – September 20th

Each year, Massey on the River brings hundreds of people out for a dance party along the river and under the stars while raising money for the VCU Massey Cancer Center. This lively party supports the Center’s mission of saving lives through innovative cancer research and compassionate care. (No wonder this event sells out quickly!) In its third year at Rocketts Landing, we’re certain that you won’t want to miss this RVA party.

  •  Richmond Rox – September 21st

This year, Richmond Rox combines two triathlon events into one. Richmond Rox consistently brings out the area’s top athletes for a competitive event featuring an Olympic distance triathlon (1500-meter swim, 40K bike, 10K run) and RVA’s only half-iron distance triathlon (1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike, 13.1-mile run). Come out to test your athleticism or spectate while enjoying amazing views of downtown Richmond.


Events at Rocketts Landing always seem to bring out the fun, camaraderie and passion brimming in RVA’s athletic talent and festival-going enthusiasts. Should we add any other events throughout the year, we'll be sure to let you know, so be sure to check back here for updates. We look forward to another great year of Rocketts Landing events in 2014 and hope to see you here, right around the river!