2nd Street Festival
in the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood of Downtown Richmond, Virginia
Saturday and Sunday, October 3-4, 2026
The 2nd Street Festival will return to celebrate its 38th anniversary, Saturday-Sunday, October 3-4! The festival celebrates the rich culture of the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood in Downtown Richmond, VA. This FREE event is produced by Venture Richmond Events.
Each year thousands visit historic Jackson Ward to reminisce about the days when 2nd Street was the heart and soul of Richmond's African American community and was known as “the Harlem of the South.” Today, Jackson Ward continues to be a thriving neighborhood and community. The 2nd Street Festival is an annual celebration over two days that features three stages of live musical entertainment along with a Kidz Zone, popular food vendors, a marketplace and Artists Row to shop, and the Richmond Metropolitan Antique Car Club.
2nd Street Festival FAQ's
How do I become a vendor?
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Marketplace vendors: Applications will open on this webpage on June 1, 2026.
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Food Vendors: The size and layout of the festival footprint limit the number of vendors we are able to accept. Previous participation or submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance. Food vendors interested in 2026 opportunities should email vendor@venturerichmond.com for more information.
Your Presence Is Your Permission
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Special photographers and videographers have been hired by festival organizers to document the event. Some images may be used in later promotional materials. Your presence at the event is seen as your permission for such promotional use by the nonprofit organizers.
Restrooms
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Portable restrooms are located throughout the festival. Free hand sanitizer will be available at these locations.
Emergency Services/First Aid
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Emergency service centers are available at the festival.
In the Event of Rain
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The 2nd Street Festival will go on, rain or shine.
Downtown Richmond Parking
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There is no dedicated event parking, but around the festival site there are surface parking lots and available on-street parking, specifically on the south side of E. Broad Street between Foushee Street and N. 5th Street.
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We advise festival attendees to use the GRTC Pulse bus service which has a stop at 2nd and E. Broad Streets.
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Rideshare services are also advised. Best drop off address for rideshare is: 124 E. Broad St., Richmond, 23219
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Be sure to check out our Downtown Richmond Transportation Guide to determine the best way to get to the event and around the city of Richmond during the 2nd Street Festival!
What Can I Not Bring With Me?
Items that are not permitted include, but are not limited to:
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No pets (official service animals are permitted)
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No coolers, or large backpacks
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No alcohol
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No bottles/glass containers
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No illegal substances, illicit goods, fireworks, weapons, guns, knives or laser pointers will be permitted at the event and violators will be held accountable and prosecuted by state and federal law.
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No flying objects (drones, kites, Frisbees, footballs, etc.)
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No riding bikes or scooters through the festival site
What Can I Bring With Me?
Items that are permitted include, but are not limited to:
- FOLDING CHAIRS ARE RECOMMENDED – we ask that you bring your own portable chair to comfortably enjoy the live music.
- Ponchos and small, personal umbrellas are permitted in the case of rain.
No Pets
- DO NOT BRING PETS (other than service animals) to the festival. We expect large crowds and your pets will be more comfortable at home.
Admission
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The 2nd Street Festival is a FREE event. Food, drink and merchandise are available for sale.
2nd Street Festival Location
In the historic Jackson Ward neighborhood, within an eight-block area along N. 2nd Street between E. Broad and E. Jackson Streets in Downtown Richmond.
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For ride share: 124 E. Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219
2nd Street Festival Hours
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Saturday, October 3 from 11:30am - 7:00pm
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Sunday, October 4 from 12:00pm - 6:00pm
Recap: 2nd Street Festival 2025
2026 Festival Sponsors
Please email us for information on all 2026 sponsorship opportunities.