Right Around the River Blog

Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend With Rocketts Landing at Rocketts Red Glare

Post Date: 05-23-2014

Did you notice that? With nearly the blink of an eye, Memorial Day weekend has already landed upon us — which means we're about to throw a huge party along the James River at Rocketts Landing, and you're invited to join us!

As the event sponsor, Rocketts Red Glare is our annual celebration that offers an afternoon and evening filled with yummy eats, great music — and Richmond's only Memorial Day fireworks, directly over the river. With help from Echelon Event Management, we've been planning away to make sure that this year's family-friendly event is our best yet. Here's a rundown of the festivities we have in store for you this weekend.

When and where?

Rocketts Red Glare will take place along the banks of the James River beside The Boathouse restaurant on Sunday, May 25, 2014.

Music?

Music is a big part of our celebration — and we love seeing couples dance and families jig throughout the night! We have two bands providing our musical entertainment:

  • Colin Healy, 5:30 p.m.
Original, acoustic pop music (Neat fact: Colin's also the son of The Boathouse owner Kevin Healy). Check out Colin Healy and his music online.

  •  Kings of Swing, 7:30 p.m.

One of RVA's favorite lively dance and show bands playing beach music, Motown favorites and tunes from the 70s through the 90s. Check out Kings of Swing andtheir music online.

Food and Drinks?

With RVA being such a foodie town, you'd better believe we'll have some great food trucks on site to help you grub in style:

  • Mosaic
  • Goatacado
  • Slideways
  • Casa del Barco
  • The Hungry Turtle Food Truck
  • Halligan Bar and Grille
  • Zzaam
  • King of Pops
  • Kona Ice


We'll also have beer and wine vendors to help you quench your thirst after all that dancing! And picnics are always welcomed. Plus, if you want a fuller dining experience, you can always reserve a table at our riverfront restaurants, The Boathouse and Conch Republic.

Family Friendly Event?

You betch'ya! Rocketts Red Glare is great for adults and kids alike, making this a perfect family outing for the holiday weekend. We'll even have a special play area for the kids to keep them entertained and full of fun (you're welcome!).

Fireworks?

Absolutely! We love any excuse to light up the RVA sky with a colorful fireworks show. So, each year, we make sure we bring only the best — and Richmond's only! — Memorial Day fireworks. The show starts at 9:00 p.m., so arrive early and make sure you save your best "seat" along the riverbank.

Fundraiser?

Each year, Rocketts Red Glare also serves as a fundraiser to benefit Connor's Heroes. This local nonprofit "gives support and companionship to children in cancer treatment and their families." We're proud to help them on their journey as they work to ease the suffering of as many kids and families as possible! You can learn more about their important mission at the Connor's Heroes website.

With all the planned action for Rocketts Red Glare, we’re certain you're in for a great time at Rocketts Landing this Memorial Day weekend. We look forward to celebrating with you right around the river.