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James River Association’s EcoFest

September 12 @ 11:00 am - 4:00 pm

James River EcoFest is back for 2026!

Join us for a day of community, learning, and celebration along the waterfront as we bring together hands-on workshops, river adventures, and local activities for all ages.

Hands-On Workshops & Learning

  • Tree Giveaway (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM): Pick out a free regionally native tree for your yard (available first come, first served) and take home practical planting and care tips.

  • Tree Walk (12:00 PM): Take a guided walk around the Buzzard Center grounds, Great Shiplock Park, and Chapel Island to learn how native trees support our urban riverfront. (Registration required)

  • Rain Barrel Workshop (1:00 PM): Learn how to capture rainwater at home to save money and reduce runoff. $50 registration fee includes a 55-gallon drum and DIY installation kit. (Registration required)

  • Composting Workshop (2:00 PM): Discover the basics of home composting, its ecological benefits, and local Richmond composting resources. (Registration required)

On-the-Water Adventures

  • Guided Big Canoe Paddles (11:00 AM – 12:30 PM & 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM): Explore Richmond’s riverfront history and natural beauty from a 13-passenger Voyageur canoe alongside JRA guides. (Pre-registration required)

  • Open Paddling: Hop in a kayak or canoe with RVA PaddleSports or join JRA aboard a Voyageur canoe to get out on the river throughout the day.

All-Day Community Activities

  • Interactive Fun: Climb trees with Riverside Camps, test out electric bikes with Kul Wheels, make river-themed crafts with the Visual Arts Center of Richmond, or meet adoptable pups from Beagles and Bentleys and friendly goats from RVA Goats and Honey.

  • Local Eats & Vendors: Enjoy blue catfish tacos from Boka Taco Truck—a tasty way to help manage an invasive species—while shopping from local artisans and connecting with community nonprofit partners.

  • Explore the James A. Buzzard River Education Center: Tour our new downtown home and learn more about JRA’s education, restoration, and advocacy work across the watershed.

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