It’s hot. Gas prices are high. You and the kids have cabin fever. Williamsburg, Gettysburg and Jamestown are so over. Besides, Charlottesvillians are the kind of folks who prefer roads less traveled. With that in mind, might we suggest something completely different for your upcoming summer day trip? We combed the highways and byways (and dangerous undergrowth) of Virginia to ferret out 13 of the weirdest sights we could find, all of them totally unique to the Commonwealth. These roadside attractions range from the quasi-historical (Stonewall’s arm), to the outrageously inventive (the world’s largest natural musical instrument, Foamhenge) to the culinary (the world’s oldest Smithfield Ham) to the absolutely nightmarish (Insane Mummies of Philippi, Professor Cline’s Haunted Monster Museum). And really, that’s just the tip of the roadside-oddity iceberg.
And here’s the best part: You can visit each of these sights on one measly tank of gas (more or less)—which, in these times of outrageous oil prices, is surely no small consideration.
Finally, for those of you not inclined to seek out the weird corners of this world, we’ve also included the second half of our Summertimes calendar, which lists all of the upcoming, not-quite-so-weird festivals and events (although, to be honest, Floyd Fest looks pretty freaky to us). So go ahead: Take a take a few minutes to peruse our off-kilter compendium and decide which totally peculiar road trip fits your family best.
But don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Weird Dude’s Plant Zoo
Staunton, Virginia (38.51 miles)
Visit Virginia’s own Little Shop of Horrors (featured in National Geographic News in 2003!). The botanical gardens and greenhouses boast the Voodoo Lily and a host of parasitic, exotic and carnivorous plants. Some smell like putrefied meat (mmm…), others have stalks that look like parts of the human anatomy (we’ll leave that to your imagination), while others sport blooms that are unusually large, coal-black, or even explosive. For the record, owner Marty Harper (the weird dude himself) says that the weirdest plant he’s ever come across is the Raffelesia arnoldii, from the South Pacific island of Borneo. “It is a parasitic plant that has the world’s largest bloom, over 3′ across, has a fleshy spotted color, smells bad, and has a hole in the center that holds six or seven quarts of water.” Drink up, buttercup! It’s all growing at 1164 Frog Pond Rd. in Staunton. (540) 886-6364. www.weirddudesplantzoo.com.
Dinosaur Land
White Post, Virginia (126.82 miles)
Don’t worry about getting lost: The Hollywood-like sign and giant dinosaur-jaws entrance at the crossroads of US 522 and 340 are hard to miss. Built in the 1960s by Joseph Geraci (rhymes with Jurassic—really), the park holds about 37 fiberglass prehistoric creatures, ranging in height from 3′ to 30". There is an Oviraptor frozen in mid-stride, a Perandodon that looks like it just touched down from its morning glide, and—historical accuracy be damned!—a scruffy caveman, a 50′ long shark and a giant octopus. And here’s a good parenting tip: Tell Junior he’ll end up like that bloody Pteradactyl in Tyrannosaurus Rex’s mouth if he doesn’t stop whining. 3848 Stonewall Jackson Hwy, White Post. Hours: Memorial-Labor Day, 9:30am-6:30pm. (540) 869-2222.
The Jeane Dixon Museum and Library
Strasburg, Virginia (111.43 miles)
Whoda thunk it? An entire museum devoted to the psychic who predicted John F. Kennedy’s assassination (in a 1956 Parade magazine article, her interviewer wrote, “As for the 1960 election, Mrs. Dixon thinks it will be dominated by labor and won by a Democrat. But he will be assassinated or die in office.”). So how did the scrapbooks, photo essays and audio clips of this Medford, Wisconsin, native end up in Virginia? Simple: She left her estate to the Wayside Foundation of American History and Arts, started by her friend Leo Bernstein, who lives in Strasburg. As you might expect, a museum dedicated to the life of an astrologer and psychic is regarded with much skepticism. After all, Dixon also predicted that Richard Nixon would serve his country well, that the Soviets would beat the United States to the moon, and that there would soon be a cure for cancer (that was in 1967—we’re still waiting). But we predict that true believers won’t let a couple of bad calls keep them away. 132 N. Maassanutten St., Strasburg. (540) 465-5884. www.waysideofva.com.
The World’s Largest Natural Musical Instrument
Luray, Virginia (60.75 miles)
It’s cavernous. It’s organic. It’s a “stalacpipe” organ. This music-playing oddity, which the Guinness World Book of Records named the largest natural instrument, is the brainchild of one Mr. Leland Sprinkle, who spelunked the chambers of Luray Caverns in 1954 and discovered that the cave’s stony stalactites, which are hollow, produce specific ringing tones when tapped. He wired the stalactites with rubber-tipped mallets that strike the natural “pipes” and connected the wires to the keys of an organ console. So escape to the cool, 54-degree temperature of the “cathedral caverns” and hear “Oh, Shenandoah” the way it was meant to be played: on giant, rainbow-hued rocks. 970 US Highway 211 W., Luray. (540) 743-6551. www.luraycaverns.com.
Professor Cline’s Haunted Monster Museum
Luray, Virginia (60.75 miles)
The impressively mad Professor Mark Cline is the only man to make our list twice, having also created the ingeniously named Foamhenge (see below). But, while that attraction is all cute and squishy, this one is aggressively scary. Beginning in what Cline calls the Freakout Forest, visitors are treated to a downed plane, a graveyard, wolves, and an ogre devouring a child. A giant one-eyed skull glares at interlopers from the roof, and a mechanical python slithers in and out the manor’s gables. Cline (who was raised a Mennonite) has done work for both Alice Cooper and Six Flags theme parks, and his monster museum falls right between those extremes. An 1870 stone house surrounded by overgrown shrubs, with peeling paint and squeaky wooden floors (it used to be a hunting lodge and summer mountain retreat until the 1970s), the overall effect is, as Cline says, “‘Scooby Doo’ meets ‘The Twilight Zone.’” But it’s certainly not scare-free: Rumor has it that about 20 percent of visitors have to use the “chicken door” to escape to the outside during the 10-minute tour. Pass the Scooby snacks, Shaggy—I’m scared! Hwy 130, Natural Bridge. Hours: 11:30am-7pm daily. (800) 533-1410. www.naturalbridgeva.com/monster.html.
Flying Circus of Fauquier County
Warrenton, Virginia (70.5 miles)
Forget Monty Python’s Flying Circus. Warrenton, Virginia, is the place to see all manner of real zaniness in the sky. The town hosts an ongoing airshow from May to October. A group of insane biplane pilots perform aerial antics each and every Sunday. See daring wing walkers, stunts and whole squadrons of historic airplanes flying in formations. If you’re more of the land-lubber type, maybe you’ll want to stay on the ground and schmooze with characters dressed as the Red Baron and Fifi LaBomshell (rowrrr!) who prowl the grounds. More adventurous types can si
gn up to take their own biplane ride before or after the show (don’t worry, you’ll be firmly strapped in). On August 19-20 this year, Warrenton holds its Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival Weekend, with hot air balloon launches both days (6-7:00am and 5-7:00pm). Off Rte. 17 on Rte. 644 (Ritchie Road) near Bealeton. (540) 439-8661. www.flyingcircusairshow.com.
Foamhenge
Natural Bridge, Virginia (79.8 miles)
Do you even have to ask? Yes, it’s a full-size replica of the mystical Stonehenge, made completely out of foam rubber. O.K., so you may not have a Druid-like spiritual experience here—but you’ve got to admire this guy’s creative vision. “About 15 years ago I walked into a place called Insulated Business Systems, where they make these huge 16′-tall blocks,” sculptor Mark Cline says. “As soon as I saw them I immediately thought of the idea: Foamhenge.“ Cline also claims that it is the only American Stonehenge replica that truly is an exact copy of the original. “I went to great pains to shape each ‘stone’ to its original shape,” he insists. He even went so far as to check his measurements and designs with the tour guide of the real Stonehenge. In fact, Cline was so obsessed that he consulted a local “psychic detective” to position Foamhenge so that it lines up correctly with the planets. Somewhere, Carl Sagan is smiling. Hwy 11 South, Natural Bridge. (800) 533-1410. www.naturalbridgeva.com/foamhenge.html.
Drug Enforcement Administration Museum
Arlington, Virginia (114.40 miles)
At last, the answer to how the government is winning that “war on drugs.” This is the only museum in the nation devoted to drugs, drug abuse and drug law enforcement (that we know of, anyway). Exhibits include “Illegal Drugs in America: A Modern History,” and “DEA: Air, Land, & Sea” (which shows how the DEA locates drug traffickers in three of the four elements, complete with drug-busting dragsters and helicopters). Hand-blown glass bongs and crack pipes available in the gift shop (just kidding, Rummy). And where would you find such a place? Across from the Pentagon, of course. 700 Army Navy Dr., Pentagon City, Arlington. Ages 10 and up only. Open 10am-4pm, Tuesday-Friday. (202) 307-3463. www.deamuseum.org.
The Lacy Family Cemetery
Fredericksburg, Virginia (66.34 miles)
O.K., we promised no Civil War stuff, but this one is just too good to pass up: come visit the place where General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson’s arm is buried. No, really—just his arm. Seems that the bullet-ridden limb was removed on May 2, 1863, at a field hospital on Wilderness Battlefield. Jackson’s chaplain, Beverly Tucker Lacy, recovered the arm from a pile of amputated limbs and had it buried in the family cemetery (supposedly out of respect for the fallen war hero, but we’re thinking he just wanted the tourist dollars). Jackson, who was Robert E. Lee’s “right hand man” (ha! We kill ourselves) was taken to nearby Guiney Station, where he died eight days later. Ellwood, the 200 year-old restored house adjacent to the cemetery, served briefly as Union Headquarters in 1864, and is also well worth a look. It’s all on State Route 20, Fredericksburg. Open on weekends and holidays from Memorial Day through the end of October. (540) 373-6122. www.nps.gov/frsp.
Virginia Military Institute Museum
Lexington, Virginia (68.72 miles)
After paying your respects to ol’ Stonewall’s severed arm, why not drive over to see his stuffed and mounted horse? That’s right, Little Sorrel (or “Fancy,” as he was known), has been preserved through the wonders of taxidermy in not one, but two separate places. The horse’s (rather creepy) mounted hide was given to VMI by the Daughters of the Confederacy in 1948. But, since the bones weren’t used, the Daughters eventually cremated them and laid Fancy’s spirit to rest right next to his master in an elaborate public ceremony, 111 years after the steed’s death. VMI cadets traditionally visit Sorrel during exam week and rub his hide for good luck—and now you can, too! Jackson Memorial Hall on the VMI campus. Lexington. (540) 464-7334. www4.vmi.edu/museum.
The World’s Oldest Ham
Smithfield, VA (141.22 miles)
The Guinness World Book of Records named Smithfiled’s “250th Anniversary Ham Biscuit” the world’s largest back in 2002 (it was eight feet wide, 14" tall, and stuffed with 500 pounds of sweet, sweet ham). But don’t get your hopes up, pork lovers, because only a picture of that bounteous breakfast sandwich remains. There is a consolation prize, however: The museum also houses the World’s Oldest Edible Cured Ham (it’s more than 100 years old!). The thing is now covered in green mold, but the keepers of the sacred pig hindquarters swear that you could scrape the fuzz off, soak it in water and chow down, because the patented Smithfield curing process so fabulously preserves the meaty goodness. Um, we’ll take their word for it. Isle of Wight County Museum. Downtown Smithfield. Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm. Sunday 1-5pm. (757) 357-7459.
Insane Mummies of Philippi
Philippi, West Virginia (188 miles)
How’s this for creepy? James Ramsey, curator of the Barbour County Historical Society Museum, keeps his town’s two oldest citizens locked up in his house. The homemade coffins rest in a tiny mothballed room in the back. The sign reads, “Mummies $1.00. Beware!”
Lest you’re confused, it’s supposedly the mummies who are “insane,” not Ramsey. But, how, pray tell, did they become the town mummies is the first place? Well, in 1888, farmer/amateur scientist Graham Hamrick bought two female cadavers from the West Virginia Hospital for the Insane (why the hospital didn’t nab him when they had a chance remains a mystery). Obsessed with Egyptian embalming (he had previously preserved snakes, vegetables and a human head), Hamrick successfully pickled the two bodies. The story gets even weirder from there: The Smithsonian Institute showed interest in Hamrick’s mummies, but they somehow ended up on P.T. Barnum’s European circus circuit instead. Later, they returned to Philippi, where they were presumed lost for years, only to be mysteriously rediscovered in a barn. (They’ve also been stored under a bed and in the post office.) Finally, after almost being destroyed in a 1985 flood, Ramsey recovered the desiccated bodies, carefully removed the green mold and matted hair, and laid them out on his front lawn to dry. Voila! Instant weird attraction. The only question is, are you brave enough to visit it? 200 N. Main St., Philippi, West Virginia. Open May 15 to October 15. Monday-Saturday, 11am-4pm. Sunday 1-4pm. (304) 457-4846.
Dog Day Diversions
C-VILLE’s compendium of upcoming summer events
Monday, July 17
A haunted tavern tour. Bring the kids to Michie Tavern, a place that provided weary Colonial travelers with food, drink and lodging. Kids learn about ghosts in the tavern and how travelers survived cramped conditions on crowded nights. Traditional Southern lunch includes Colonial fried chicken, black-eyed peas, stewed tomatoes and biscuits—all served by folks in period costumes. $2-6, 9am-5pm. Michie Tavern.
Tuesday, July 18
Don’t Hug Me. The Heritage Repertory Theatre performs this new comedy about the classic struggle between m
an and karaoke machine. It’s “American Idol” meets Fargo. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
The Municipal Band of Charlottesville performs a Downtown summer concert, rain or shine, sure to keep you in the patriotic swing of things. Free, 8pm. Charlottesville Pavilion.
Wednesday, July 19
Kids’ Summer Fun at Montpelier. Wednesday mornings, play Colonial games and capture the flag. There’s Montpelier Mysteries, worms and bees! $8, 9am-12pm.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Urinetown: The Musical. See what happens as private toilets are outlawed due to drought and public amenities must be paid for to the UGC (Urine Good Company). Hey, it could happen! Pay what you can, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Thursday, July 20
Orange County Fair. Local farmers, craftsmen, cooks and gardeners come together for an old-fashioned county fair that boasts “One of the Best Fairs in Virginia!” Events like the “Womanless Beauty Pageant,” and pig racing, plus tons of livestock, crafts and food. $3-6, Montpelier.
Psychopathia Sexualis, a salty boulevard comedy. Men, women, love, marriage, shoes and socks all get an airing in this daffy, laughy play. Part of Live Arts Summer Theater Festival. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednesday, July 19. $10-17, 7:30pm.
Friday, July 21
Fridays After 5 hosts legendary blues masters the Nighthawks, for a sizzling summer night’s fun. No cover, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall.
Anna Karenina. An adaptation of the story of the beautiful Russian girl, Anna, the dashing Count Vronsky, and fervent young Levin, all under 2 hours! $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. The Heritage Repertory Theatre performs this Pulitzer-Prize winning play about famed impressionist Georges Seurat, the master of pointillism. A virtual-reality musical exploring the complex bond between artists and their art. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
Bio Ritmo is back by popular demand at the Music at Twilight series. A sizzling 9-piece ensemble plays just the right blend of Afro-Cuban and Puerto Rican beats, soulful lyrics, and intricate jazz harmonies. Free salsa lesson for early birds. $11-18, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Seventeenth Annual Shakespeare at the Ruins. See All’s Well That Ends Well performed by the Four County Players at the ruins of the structure built by Thomas Jefferson for the first governor of Virginia. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-17, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Psychopathia Sexualis, a salty boulevard comedy. See listing for Thursday, July 20. Part of Live Arts Summer Theater Festival. $10, 9:30pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Saturday, July 22
Woody Plant Propagation workshop at Monticello. Participants discuss the principles of seed sowing and review the fundamentals of asexual propagation. Bring your pruning shears. Reservations required. $10, 9:30am. Tufton Farm, past Monticello entrance on Rte. 53. 984-9822.
Tenth Annual Citizens for Water Quality Summit. Virginia Save Our Streams convenes volunteers from across the state for lectures and workshops for monitoring groups. Meet at Clark Hall at UVA. Free, 9:30am. 291 McCormick Rd. 804-775-0951.
Go roller skating. Bring your own skates or rent them and spin around the old-timey hardwood floor to tunes provided by the staff. There’s even a disco ball. Courtesy of Albemarle Parks and Recreation. $1.50-2.50, 11am- 2pm. Greenwood Community Center.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 2pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Bo Bice rocks the Mall tonight with tunes from his recent RCA album. Under the “big top.” $27-37.75, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall.
Psychopathia Sexualis. See listing for Thursday, July 20. Part of Live Arts Summer Theater Festival. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
The Merry Widow. Enjoy this delightful comic operetta and the misadventures of the wealthy widow Anna, Danilo and the Baron at the home of President James Monroe. Grounds open at 6pm so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Seventeenth Annual Shakespeare at the Ruins. All’s Well That Ends Well. See listing for Friday, July 21. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-17, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Anna Karenina. See listing for Friday, July 21. $10, 9:30pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Sunday, July 23
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-17, 2pm. Live Arts DownStage.
The Merry Widow. See listing for Saturday, July 22. Grounds open at 6 so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Monday, July 24
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
Tuesday, July 25
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
West Side Story. Whether you side with the Sharks or the Jets, you’ll love this All-American musical by Leonard Bernstein, with memorable tunes like “Maria” and “I Feel Pretty.” Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Wednesday, July 26
Kids’ Summer Fun at Montpelier. Wednesday mornings, play Colonial games and capture the flag. There’s Montpelier Mysteries, worms and bees! $8, 9am-noon. Montpelier.
Summer Theater Festival Shorts at Live Arts. Enjoy the freshest short plays by local playwrights, including The Gold Lunch, In the Soup, and Strip to Black. Pay-what-you-can, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
West Side Story. See listing for Tuesday, July 25. Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-17, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Thursday, July 27
Floyd Fest starts today. Named for the tiny, one-stoplight town of Floyd, it’s everything you could want to do in four days. Seven stages with tons of bands playing roots music, plus beer and wine, arts and crafts, a dance tent and things for kids. Tickets at 800-594-TIXX or at Sidetracks Music. $35-115.
Mr. Marmalade. This award-winning comedy is an Off-Broadway hit about finger painting and anger management, hopscotch and 12 steps, tea parties and binge drinking, and an imaginary friend with some very grown-up problems. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Don’t Hu
g Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. 7:30pm. Live Arts DownStage.
The Merry Widow. See listing for Saturday, July 22. Grounds open at 6pm so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Friday, July 28
Tommy Wood and his Late Nite Shift Band bring classic country music (think Conway Twitty) to Fridays After 5. No cover, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall.
Psychopathia Sexualis. See listing for Thursday, July 20. Part of Live Arts Summer Theater Festival. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
The Merry Widow. See listing for Saturday, July 22. Grounds open at 6pm so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Shakespeare at the Ruins. All’s Well That Ends Well. See listing for Friday, July 21. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
Anna Karenina. See listing for Friday, July 21. $10, 9:30pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-17, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Saturday, July 29
Civil War Center Exhibit opening. Take the short drive to Richmond for the Center’s exhibit: “In the Cause of Liberty.” A historic landmark on the James River, the site offers visitors an interactive exploration of the Civil War through the perspectives of Union, Confederate and African-American participants. 9am-5pm. 490 Tredegar St. 804-780-1865.
Go roller skating. Bring your own skates or rent them and spin around the old-timey hardwood floor to tunes provided by the staff. There’s even a disco ball. Courtesy of Albemarle Parks and Recreation. $1.50-2.50, 11am-2pm. Greenwood Community Center.
Tomato/Salsa Fest. Take a day and enjoy the lake. There’s live music, wine tasting, tours and salsa! $10, 11am-5pm. Oakencroft Vineyard & Winery.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 2pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 2pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
Mr. Marmalade. See listing for Thursday, July 27. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Don’t Hug Me. See listing for Tuesday, July 18. $8-30, 7:30pm. UVA Helms Theatre.
Sunday in the Park With George. See listing for Friday, July 21. $8-30, 8pm. UVA Culbreth Theatre.
The Velveteen Rabbit. Presented by Applause Unlimited, this classic tale of a child’s toy is brought to life with storytelling and puppets. Introduce your family to the story you loved as a child. Part of the Summer Saturdays series. $5, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
West Side Story. See listing for Tuesday, July 25. Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Dinosaurs Forever show. Come sing along, stomp around and giggle with DinoRock Productions’ fantasy musical revue. Original Grammy-nominated songs invite kids to join in and celebrate nature’s own monsters. $5, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Shakespeare at the Ruins. All’s Well That Ends Well. See listing for Friday, July 21. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19, $10-17, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Psychopathia Sexualis, a salty boulevard comedy. Men, women, love, marriage, shoes and socks all get an airing in this daffy, laughy play. Part of Live Arts Summer Theater Festival. $10, 9:30pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Sunday, July 30
Rivanna River kayak and canoe trip. The Rivanna Conservation Society takes you on the beautiful Rivanna River. Water level determines location. For more info: 971-1553 or RRdays@rivannariver.org. Free with RCS membership, 10am.
West Side Story. See listing for Tuesday, July 25. Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Tuesday, August 1
Twenty-fifth Annual Albemarle County Fair starts today and runs through August 6, barring any unforeseen severe weather. Carnival rides, livestock, flower and vegetable contests, food vendors and live music. On 29S near the Crossroads Store. Admission $2-6 (children under 6 free), 11am.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-19, 7:30pm. Live Arts DownStage.
The Merry Widow. Enjoy this delightful comic operetta and the misadventures of Widow Anna and Danilo at the home of president James Monroe. Grounds open at 6 so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
The Municipal Band of Charlottesville performs a Downtown summer concert, rain or shine, sure to set your feet marching. Free, 8pm. Charlottesville Pavilion.
Wednesday, August 2
Twenty-fifth Annual Albemarle County Fair continues. See listing for August 1. Admission $2-6 (children under 6 free), 11am.
Summer Theater Festival Shorts at Live Arts. Enjoy the freshest short plays by local playwrights, including The Gold Lunch, Parts, In the Soup, and Strip to Black. Pay-what-you-can, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Guster and Ray Lamontagne. $30, 7pm. Charlottesville Pavilion.
The Merry Widow. Enjoy this delightful comic operetta and the misadventures of Widow Anna and Danilo at the home of president James Monroe. Grounds open at 6 so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-19, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Thursday, August 3
Twenty-fifth Annual Albemarle County Fair continues. See listing for August 1. Admission $2-6 (children under 6 free), 11am.
Mr. Marmalade. See listing for Thursday, July 27. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. 7:30pm. Live Arts DownStage.
West Side Story. See listing for Tuesday, July 25. Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Anna Karenina. See listing for Friday, July 21. $10, 9:30pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Friday, August 4
Twenty-fifth Annual Albemarle County Fair continues. See listing for August 1. Admission $2-6 (children under 6 free), 11am.
Fridays After 5. Andy Waldeck and the C-villians rock you out. Wind down the week with great live music outdoors. No cover, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall. 1-877-272-8849.
Anna Karenina. See listing for Friday, July 21. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
West Side Story. See listing for Tuesday, July 25. Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Shakespeare at the Ruins. All’s Well That Ends Well performed by the Four County Players at the ruins of the structure built by Thomas Jefferson for the first governor of Virginia. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
Urinetown: The Musical. See listing for Wednes-day, July 19. $10-19, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Mr. Marmalade. See listing for Thursday, July 27. $10, 9:30pm. Live Arts UpStage.
Saturday, August 5
Tomato Tasting at Monticello. This workshop examines and rates a sample of tomato varieties now available to gardeners. $10, 9:30am. Meet at the Garden Sh
op. Monticello, Rte. 53. 984-9822.
Blackberry Harvest Festival. Pick endless buckets of blackberries, or sample berry desserts and wines. Live music, crafts, picnic foods and more. $10, children free. Hill Top Berry Farm and Winery.
Bird walk. Learn about the birds of Virginia by sight and sound with experienced local birders. Co-sponsored by the Ivy Creek Foundation and Monticello Bird Club. Free, 7:30-10:30am.
Rivanna River kayak and canoe trip. The Rivanna Conservation Society takes you on the beautiful Rivanna River. Water level determines location. For more info: 971-1553 or RRdays@rivannariver.org. Free with RCS membership, 10am.
Summer Cabernet Tasting. Vertical tasting of the last seven vintages of Cabernet Sauvignon, including the recently-bottled 2003. $7.50, 11am-4pm. Burnley Vineyards.
Twenty-fifth Annual Albemarle County Fair continues. See listing for August 1. Admission $2-6 (children under 6 free), 11am.
Cardinal Point Summer Concert Series. Jan Smith plays at the winery. Proceeds benefit local charities. $10, 4pm-8pm. Cardinal Point Vineyards.
Mr. Marmalade. See listing for Thursday, July 27. $10, 7pm. Live Arts UpStage.
The Merry Widow. Enjoy this delightful comic operetta and the misadventures of Widow Anna and Danilo at the home of president James Monroe. Grounds open at 6 so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Shakespeare at the Ruins. See All’s Well That Ends Well performed by the Four County Players at the ruins of the structure built by Thomas Jefferson for the first governor of Virginia. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
World on a String. Bob Brown Puppets presents an around-the-world adventure with charming characters from France, Japan and Australia. Part of the Summer Saturdays series and fun for the whole family. $5, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Urinetown: The Musical. Final performance. See listing for Wednesday, July 19. $10-17, 8pm. Live Arts DownStage.
Sunday, August 6
Canoe trip with the Outdoor Adventure Social Club. Explore the natural beauty of the Rivanna River and beyond with outdoorsy friends. River level determines put-in location. Eighteen years and older. Visit outdoorsocial.com for time. $25 with membership.
Twenty-fifth Annual Albemarle County Fair continues. See listing for August 1. Admission $2-6 (children under 6 free), 11am.
Rhythm on the River in Scottsville. Enjoy live music by Quatro Na Bossa and Ban Caribe. Bring a blanket and watch the sunset. Free, 6pm. Dorrier Park, Scottsville. 286-9267.
The Merry Widow. Last weekend to see the delightful comic operetta about the misadventures of wealthy widow Anna and Danilo at the home of President James Monroe. Grounds open at 6pm so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Tuesday, August 8
West Side Story. See listing for July 25. Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Wednesday, August 9
West Side Story. See listing for July 25. Doors open at 6pm for spreading the blanket and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Thursday, August 10
The Merry Widow. See listing for Sunday, August 6. Grounds open at 6pm so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Friday, August 11
Fridays After 5. DJ Williams Projekt. Enjoy great jazz, rain or shine. No cover, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall.
The Merry Widow. Final night to see the comic operetta and the misadventures of Anna and Danilo at the home of president James Monroe. Grounds open at 6 so you can spread the blanket and picnic. $10-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Shakespeare at the Ruins. All’s Well That Ends Well. See listing for Saturday, August 5. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
Saturday, August 12
Learn what you can do to help protect and enhance the Rivanna watershed. The Nature Conservancy tells you how. Adults only. 951-0585 or www.tnc.org/virginia. Free with registration, 10am.
Starry Nights at Veritas Winery. Bring your picnic fare and dancing shoes for an evening of wine and entertainment. Tonight’s performer: The Millstreet Ramblers. 7-11pm. Veritas Vineyard & Winery.
West Side Story. The final weekend to enjoy Leonard Bernstein’s All-American musical love story performed in the boxwood gardens at James Monroe’s estate. Doors open at 6pm for spreading blankets and picnicking. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Shakespeare at the Ruins. All’s Well That Ends Well. See listing for Sunday, August 6. $12-16, 8pm. Barboursville Vineyards.
Sunday, August 13
Bruce Hornsby brings his Grammy-winning sound with hits like “Every Little Kiss” tonight. $17-47, 7:30pm. The Charlottesville Pavilion.
Staunton Music Festival. Popular classical music festival with a variety of events. Today: Piano Extravaganza, featuring works for one piano by Saint-Saens, Jeths, Rachmaninoff, Lavignac and others. $17, 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse.
West Side Story. Last evening to enjoy this All-American musical love story. See listing for Tuesday, July 25. Doors open at 6pm for picnics. $16-26, 8pm. Ash Lawn-Highland.
Tuesday, August 15
Strike up the band. The Municipal Band of Charlottesville performs their final Downtown summer concert of the season. Rain or shine. Free, 8pm. Charlottesville Pavilion. 877-272-8849.
Friday, August 18
Terri Allard lends her award-winning original folk music to Fridays After 5. No cover, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall.
Saturday, August 19
Learn keelboat building skills courtesy of the Lewis & Clark Exploratory Center. The main transportation that explorers used on the Ohio and Missouri rivers, this was a 55′ wooden boat that could be sailed, rowed, poled like a raft or towed from the riverbank. Meet at the keelboat barn at Darden Towe Park. All ages. Free, 9am-12pm.
Sunday, August 20
Rivanna River kayak and canoe trip. The Rivanna Conservation Society takes you on the beautiful Rivanna River. Water level determines location. For more info: 971-1553 or RRdays@rivannariver.org. Free with RCS membership, 10am.
Staunton Music Festival. Popular classical music festival with a variety of events. Today: chamber music concert, featuring works by Brahms, Crumb and Ravel. 540-885-7873. Trinity Episcopal Church, Staunton. $17, 4pm. www.stauntonmusicfestival.com.
Tuesday, August 22
Bruce Hornsby brings songs like “Every Little Kiss” and “The Way it Is” to the Pavilion. 7pm. 877-272-8849.
Wednesday, August 23
Staunton Music Festival. Popular classical music festival with a variety of events. Today: chamber music concert featuring works by Leclair, Berio, Monteclair, Caplet and a new Festival-commissioned piece. 540-885-7873. Trinity Episcopal Church, Staunton. $17, 7:30pm. www.stauntonmusicfestival.com.
Friday, August 25
Twin Oaks Women’s Gathering. Camping, drumming, workshops, singing, rituals, performances, games and more at this bonding events just for femmes. Register by August 1. $40-140, 9am-5pm.
Fridays After 5. Jim Waive & The Young Divorcees, with Sons of Bill. Enjoy great honky tonkin
’ rock. No cover, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall, 877-272-8849.
Staunton Music Festival. Popular classical music festival with a variety of events. Today: Baroque Inside/Out, concertos, arias, sonatas and madrigals by Pachelbel, Telemann, Purcell, Vivaldi and Handel. 540-885-7873. Trinity Episcopal Church, Staunton. $17, 6:30pm. www.stauntonmusicfestival.com.
Saturday, August 26
Lyle Lovett at the Pavilion. $31.50-$65. 7pm. East end, Downtown Mall. 877-272-8849.
Staunton Music Festival. Popular classical music festival with a variety of events. Today: opera double bill, Kuik, a multimedia opera by Matthew Burtner, followed by a production of Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, performed with period instruments. $17, 8pm. Blackfriars Playhouse.
Friday, September 1
Fridays After 5. Expect radio-ready pop-rock from rising local group Sparky’s Flaw. No cover, 5pm. Charlottesville Pavilion, Downtown Mall.
Saturday, September 2
Staunton Music Festival. Popular classical music festival with a variety of events. Today: An evening of north Indian classical music. $17. Blackfriars Playhouse.
Discover Virginia Food and Wine Festival. Features some of Virginia’s finest agricultural products including peanuts, ham, barbecue and award-winning wines. $15-20, 11am-6pm. 800-568-2746 or 434-985-6663. Greene County Farm. US 33 at Spotswood Trail. 5 miles from Rte. 29.
Cardinal Point Summer Concert Series. Las Gitanas plays at the winery. Proceeds benefit local charities. $10, 4pm-8pm. Cardinal Point Vineyards.
Sunday, September 3
“Romp, Stomp and Chomp” Harvest Celebration. Celebrate Labor Day weekend with three rockin’ days of live music, food and grape stomping. $7, 10am. Wintergreen Winery.
Rhythm on the River in Scottsville. Enjoy live music by Nelson’s Jazz Rascals and Dixie Power Trio. Free, 6pm. Dorrier Park, Scottsville. 286-9267.
Staunton Music Festival. Popular classical music festival with a variety of events. Today: Festival finale, “Reflecting India.” $17. 7:30pm. Blackfriars Playhouse.
