When the winter jasmine and daffodils start to bloom, we all know the redbuds, forsythia and crocuses aren’t far behind and spring is once again almost here in Charlottesville unless we get one last surprise snowstorm between now and then!
One could argue there really isn’t a prettier place to be than in this area for spring – neighborhood streets boast a riot of colors, from small plants to bushes and trees that drape over the walkways – we are truly a green town and even greener countryside.
We also know the fun activities we enjoy every year are also on their way. Below are a few to keep in mind as we head towards warmer days ahead.
Festival of the Book – March 22-26
First up is the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities’ annual Festival of the Book – now in its 23rd year – slated to begin Wednesday, March 22, and run through Sunday, March 26 in 70 different venues – from the Downtown Mall to the University of Virginia, at PVCC, in Crozet & Waynesboro, and at other sites like local schools and libraries, Barnes and Noble and, in honor of a longtime supporter, Carol Troxell, at the New Dominion Book Shop.
The Festival is the largest community-based book event in the Mid-Atlantic region and has attracted audiences of more than 20,000 for each of the past 13 years.
Past speakers include Rick Atkinson, Edward Ayers, David Baldacci, Maureen Corrigan, Edwidge Danticat, Kate DiCamillo, Rita Dove, Alan Furst, John Grisham, Jan Karon, Jim Lehrer, Frances Mayes, Colum McCann, David McCullough, Alice McDermott, Katherine Paterson, Jon Scieszka, Lisa Scottoline, Pete Seeger, Karin Slaughter, Alexander McCall Smith, Lee Smith, Bryan Stevenson, Elizabeth Strout, Judith Viorst, and Charles Wright.
Programs range from traditional author readings and book signings to children’s programs and hands-on workshops. All programs are open to the public and, with the exception of a few ticketed events, the majority of Festival programs are free to attend.
Charlottesville Marathon – April 1 @ 7 am
Time to get your running shoes ready!
The Charlottesville Marathon, Half Marathon, Marathon Relay, 8K & Kids K – this starts at 9 am – is one of the oldest and most coveted races in Charlottesville. It has been defined as America’s Destination Marathon because of its scenic beauty and historical background.
A true community event, the race showcases the area’s natural beauty, engaging running community, historical background, architectural heritage, vibrant music and nightlife, and booming wine and craft beer industry.
The course has been voted as “One of the Most Scenic in the East”. It starts and finishes at historic Court Square, follows the banks of the Rivanna River, and showcases some of the most historic and runners friendly neighborhoods in Charlottesville.
Limited to 3,500 entries, you can register at their website.
Farmers Market – Starting April 1
Long a favorite as a Saturday morning destination, and now starting its 44th year, the Charlottesville Farmers Market will start up again on April 1 and run through until December.
A producer-only market of farmers, food vendors, crafts, and artisans since 1973 – The Charlottesville City Market is held every Saturday from 7 am till noon Downtown.
While the construction Downtown has changed its location several times, it has generally been in the Water Street area.
City Market offers fresh produce, herbs, plants, grass-fed meats, crafts, and baked goods from over 100 local vendors.
Tom Tom Founders Festival – April 10-16
Begun as a Block Party in front of McGuffey Art Center, this now six-year-old festival has grown into a twice a year event that now hosts for one week over Founder’s Day (April 13) a creative canvas for innovators, visionaries and artists.
With over 60 bands, 200 speakers and 400 community organizations, the Festival spills through outdoor spaces, theaters, galleries, concert halls and more. Through a diversity of disciplines and engagement with forward-thinking makers and doers, we build on the rich history of the city while chart a new path into the future.
Starting April 14 – Fridays After Five
Starting April 14 and running through September 8, Sprint Pavilion on the Downtown Mall will once again host Fridays After Five – a free concert series that is now in its 30th year. With free music from 5:30 until 8:30 pm, this has long been a draw for families, visitors or people relaxing after work.
Each week volunteers work the concessions on behalf of a variety of local non-profits who share in the proceeds, which raises tens of thousands of dollars to support their work in our community.
The spring and summer schedule will be announced soon and features local artists of myriad musical styles; there is something for everyone.
Historic Garden Week – April 22-29
Each spring, the Garden Club of Virginia welcomes visitors to over 250 of Virginia’s most beautiful gardens, homes and historic landmarks during “America’s Largest Open House.” This 8-day statewide event provides visitors a unique opportunity to see unforgettable gardens at the peak of Virginia’s springtime color, as well as beautiful houses sparkling with over 2,000 flower arrangements created by Garden Club of Virginia members.
Tour proceeds fund the restoration and preservation of Virginia’s historic gardens, and provide graduate level research fellowships for building comprehensive and ongoing records of historic gardens and landscapes in the Commonwealth, and support the mission of the Garden Club of Virginia.
Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival – May 13 & 14
The 37th Annual Crozet Spring Arts and Crafts Festival returns on Mother’s Day weekend – May 13th & 14th – from 10 am to 5 pm both days.
Over 100 juried Art and Craft Exhibitors share and sell their handcrafted items in the high-top tents and pavilions at Claudius Crozet Park, Inc. Live music, great food, and children’s entertainment make it a family-friendly weekend.
