About this event
Richmond Folk Festival returns free to the downtown riverfront and Browns Island October 9 through 11, with Friday 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturday 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM, and Sunday 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Six stages and more than 30 artists present music, dance, traditional crafts, storytelling, and food across the James River site, presented with the National Council for the Traditional Arts and Venture Richmond Events. Food and drink vendors sit beside tented stages on Browns Island and the amphitheater, so snack lines stay busy between sets even if rain moves crowds under cover. Operators near Tredegar, 5th and Byrd, and the Browns Island entries see the densest festival-food traffic Saturday afternoon into evening before the 9:30 PM close.
Vendor Tip
If you plan to vend at this event, make sure your Richmond permits are current. Many events require proof of valid health permits, insurance, and city vendor licenses before you can set up.
Frequently asked questions
What time does Richmond Folk Festival start?
Richmond Folk Festival runs Fri 6:30 PM - 10 PM; Sat 12 PM - 9:30 PM; Sun 12 PM - 6 PM in Richmond, VA.
Where is Richmond Folk Festival located?
Richmond Folk Festival is held at Riverfront / Browns Island, Browns Island / Richmond Riverfront, Richmond, VA 23219, in Richmond, VA.
What is Richmond Folk Festival?
Richmond Folk Festival returns free to the downtown riverfront and Browns Island October 9 through 11, with Friday 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM, Saturday 12:00 PM to...
Nearest locations to vend
Markets, spots where food trucks already set up, and parking around Richmond, VA.
These are leads, not permission. Private lots need the owner's OK and street spots follow Richmond vending rules — see the How to Get a Food Truck Permit in Richmond (2026 Guide).
Map: what's around Riverfront / Browns Island
More events in Richmond, VA
Commissary kitchens in Richmond, VA
Guides for Richmond, VA
