What’s Booming RVA: A Solar Eclipse and Squirrels

Find a solar eclipse viewing party, cheer on the home team and inspirational basketball champions, commemorate emancipation, and catch the classic Pure Prairie League. All in “What’s Booming RVA: A Solar Eclipse and Squirrels.”

NWBA Adult & Junior Wheelchair Basketball National Championships

Junior championships, April 5 to 7; adult championships, April 12 to 14; at Henrico Sports & Events Center, Glen Allen

Cheer on the athletes as the top-ranked wheelchair basketball teams for adult and junior divisions compete for the coveted national title.

Civil War & Emancipation Day

April 6, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the American Civil War Museum, Richmond

Mark the history and impact of the Civil War and the end of slavery in Richmond with storytelling, music, crafts, and a visit from Abe Lincoln. Commemorating three 1965 events: The Confederate evacuation of Richmond (April 2), The emancipation of enslaved Richmonders and the arrival of U.S. troops (April 3), and Abraham Lincoln’s tour of the city (April 4).

Pure Prairie League

April 6, 7:30 p.m., at Beacon Theatre, Hopewell

Crisp, clean harmonies and breezy songs from innovative purveyors of the melodic mix of country-rock laced with FM radio pop. The band enjoyed commercial success, and influenced future musicians such as Keith Urban, Nickel Creek, Wilco, and Counting Crows.

Solar Eclipse Viewing Parties

This celestial event takes place on Monday, April 8. At approximately 3:19 p.m., the Moon will cover nearly 85% of the Sun as seen from Richmond. There will not be another eclipse that is viewable from the U.S. until Aug. 23, 2044.

• Virginia State Parks. The natural settings and commitment to environmental education at Virginia State Parks provide an ideal backdrop for observing this awe-inspiring event. With 42 state parks across Virginia, visitors will have ample opportunities to find the perfect spot to witness the eclipse. To learn more about solar eclipse events at the parks, go to dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/solar-eclipse. What visitors will see depends on the weather and the park’s location. Many parks, especially those in Southwest Virginia, are expected to experience more than 85 percent sun obscurity, with Wilderness Road experiencing 90 percent. For a breakdown by park of eclipse start, peak and end times and the percent of obscurity, click here. Park visitor centers and gift shops will have a limited number of solar viewing glasses available for purchase, at $1 plus tax.
• Prep for the Eclipse. Get ready for the partial solar eclipse happening from 2 to 4 p.m. on April 8. Learn about the science behind this astronomical event, safety, and make a craft to commemorate the view. Then find your spot from which to safely watch the eclipse. April 8, 10 to 11 a.m., at Pocahontas State Park, Chesterfield.
• Solar Eclipse of the Parks. Crafts, food trucks, guest speakers, and complimentary eclipse glasses, while supplies last (distribution begins at 1 p.m.). Bring a non-perishable food item as a food pantry donation. Take a chair or blanket for the viewing comfort. April 8th, 1:30 to 4:30 PM at Dorey Park, Henrico, and Meadow Farm Museum at Crump Park, Glen Allen.
• Eclipse Viewing Party. Bring your own glasses or purchase verified eclipse viewing glasses from the Science Museum’s gift shop (very limited quantities will be available for sale at the event). Richmond Astronomical Society will be onsite with their telescopes. Plus interactive astronomy-themed activities, such as sun prints and pinhole viewers. April 8, 2 to 4:30 p.m., on the Green at the Science Museum of Virginia, Richmond.

Richmond Flying Squirrels 14th Season Opener

April 9 to 14 at The Diamond, Richmond

The home team returns facing the Akron Rubber Ducks with all the usual funn and games! Follow the Boomer newsletter and Facebook for chances to win tickets all season long. But don’t wait to win – take yourself out to the ball game!

Check websites for more details, including prices and registration requirements.

More of What’s Booming in Richmond besides a Solar Eclipse and Squirrels

Food and more fun to fill your plate

Boomer’s featured flavor of the week:

Introducing the Richmond Region Beer Trail Mobile Passport

And lots more events to throw on your calendar:

April 4 to 11, 2024 + Down-the-Road events