So you’re not a Foxfield person. Lucky for you, UVa and Charlottesville have much more going on this weekend than just the horse races (and a lot of it is free or much cheaper!). Here’s a little guide to other ways to spend the last Saturday of April this year.
Charlottesville City Market (7 am to noon):
A classic Charlottesville staple, the farmer’s market is the perfect way to spend a Saturday morning. Pick up some fresh produce, flowers, crafts or baked goods from local vendors, then grab some crepes or head to the downtown mall to do some end-of-the-semester shopping.
Montalto Challenge 5k Run at the Saunders-Monticello Trail (7:30 am):
Do you like to run, especially for a good cause? The course for this 5k offers incredible views of Monticello, Charlottesville, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, with all proceeds benefiting the Thomas Jefferson Foundation to support the preservation and maintenance of the Trail at Monticello. Registration can be found on the Monticello website.
Breakfast on the Corner (anytime):
The Corner will basically be deserted with so many students at the races, so why not take advantage of it? Grab a delicious breakfast at Pigeon Hole without any wait, or try out the new Roots breakfast without having to spend time in the usual long line.
Visit an Art Gallery (Fralin: noon to 5 pm, Kluge-Ruhe: 10 am to 4 pm):
The Fralin is currently hosting an exhibit entitled “Casting Shadows” that examines the metaphorical “shadows” of the past and their influence on contemporary society, and the Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Museum is displaying a diverse selection of works addressing relationships with country or homeland, entitled “Art and Country.” Take advantage of the arts and culture scene in Charlottesville and spend some time at these special exhibitions.
Try a New Coffee Shop (anytime):
Charlottesville is known for its abundance of coffee shops, so take a low-key afternoon to visit one you’ve never been to before and maybe get ahead on some of that finals week prepping. From Milli Joe, Java Java, and Mudhouse downtown to Corner Joes and Grit on the Corner to Green House Coffee and Trailside Coffee in Crozet, the options are endless to find that perfect latte.
L.Y.A.O. Comedy Open Mic Night hosted by Comedian Winston Hodges at The Southern (8 pm):
Have fun at a free event at the Southern Café and Music Hall and celebrate local comedy. There will be jokes by Winston and his friends, as well as anyone who wants to sign up for open mic and try their hand at being a comedian (it could even be you!).
Purple Rain at the Paramount (8 pm):
Join the Paramount Theater downtown for a special tribute screening of Purple Rain, to celebrate the life, music, and genius of Prince. The film won an academy award for Best Original Song Score, and the Paramount is the perfect venue to appreciate such an impactful film and artist.
M. Ward with NAF at the Jefferson (8 pm):
Haven’t been to a concert at the Jefferson yet and want to check it off the UVa bucket list before classes wrap up for the year? With M. Ward’s self-described new album More Rain as “a true gotta-stay-indoors, rainy season record,” his earthy and laid-back tone may fit the over-cast weather forecast for this weekend perfectly.
Ships in the Night with Jaguardini and Please Don’t Tell at the Tea Bazaar (9 pm):
In a bit of a smaller venue than the Jefferson, head to the Tea Bazaar Saturday night to relax on some comfy cushions and couches, grab a pot of tea to split with friends, and enjoy the low-key atmosphere with some incredible performers.
