Summer heat, hot dogs and our new official dog: What to know ahead of 804 Day
804 Day returns to Shockoe Bottom on Saturday, and with it comes loud music, local goodies and free admission.
The celebration, named after Richmond’s area code, will take place on 8/02 this year instead of the traditional 8/04 to allow for a Saturday festival. Its organizers — Shockoe Records — are looking to enchant Richmond with returning and new delights.
Here’s what to know heading into the weekend:
The weather: It’s been a hot and soggy Richmond summer, and this weekend is no different. However, we may finally get some cooler temperatures, with highs in the upper 70s. You should also pack an umbrella or raincoat, because there may be some morning showers!
The amenities: The festival will return to 17th Street Market. This year, it’ll boast 40+ Richmond-based craftsmen, businesses, food and drink vendors, and nonprofits. You can expect to see some of your farmer’s market favorites.
The music: 804 Day is the city’s second-largest free music festival — first place goes to the Folk Festival. It’ll feature 10 acts across three stages (don’t worry, performances won’t overlap).
Performers include Nickelus F (Rap), Kadencia Orchestra (Latin), Høly River (Folk), REIN (Pop/Rock), Weldon Hill Quintet (Jazz), Bucko (Honky-Tonk/Goof-Rock), Los Hermanos Alacranes (Rock/Latin), Flora and The Fauna (Punk), Kaay Taurus (R&B) and Vexine (Southern Rock Noir).
Music will run from 12:30 to 6:30 p.m. For the full schedule, refer to Shockoe Records’ website and social media.
The dog: The festival’s biggest honoree will be none other than Marshmallow from Richmond’s Maymont neighborhood — a white, fluffy dog with big puppy eyes. On Saturday, she will be crowned the Official 804 Day Dog and may meet Mayor Danny Avula.
Marshmallow’s owners, Leah and Trevor Hopper, submitted her to Style Weekly’s contest, and she was officially victorious after voting closed July 25. She succeeds the late Bunky Kelley in the role, who was known for occasional appearances in billboard advertisements.
Contact Reporting Intern Eleanor Shaw at eshaw@richmonder.org
