If you’re even a little into the outdoors, you can’t miss out on this film festival. Hosted annually at The Paramount Theater, the Banff Mountain Film Festival is all about highlighting the best and most inspiring short films that capture thought-provoking moments in mountain sports and culture from around the world.
Supporting the festival also means supporting conservation and education. This event has raised over $500,000 in the past 10 years for the Shenandoah National Park Trust, which goes towards funding projects and programs in Shenandoah National Park.
Located right on UVA Grounds, the Fralin Museum of Art is free and open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. Keep an eye on their events calendar for engaging, community-focused offerings including screenings, artist-led discussions, sensory experiences, and more.
For one night only! In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Charlottesville Ballet and Opera on the James will present 'America250: Voices of Virginia' at The Paramount Theater on Saturday, March 14th from 4-5PM. This sweeping multidisciplinary performance traces the arc of the American story—from its founding to the Civil War, the Civil Rights Movement, to today—through dance, opera, theater, poetry, and music created by Virginia artists. 👉 Learn More and Get Your Tickets
Did you know that 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the United States? No matter what state you call home, Virginia is the BEST state to visit this year in celebration. In honor of the anniversary, we've put together a collection of itineraries to help you explore lesser-known history in the area.
Also on March 14th (and perfect for puzzle lovers), the Cville Puzzle Hunt is back! Everyone is invited to this FREE event. Spend an afternoon exploring the Downtown Mall as you attempt to untangle five large-scale puzzles inserted into the urban landscape. This year's hunt is pie-themed, in honor of Pi Day. You can play solo, but we recommend bringing a team of 3-6 friends!
Itching for an adventure? Racers will navigate 500+ acres of Walnut Creek Park's rolling wooded terrain using only a map, compass, and snacks. The course mixes gravel, dirt, hiking, single track, and paddling on a lake. The park's moderate elevation change makes the course fast and fun. Both teams and solo racers will search for hidden checkpoints, finding as many as you can in under four hours! This race is free if you bring your own kayak/canoe (boat rentals are ~$35). Proceeds from the race go towards local veteran charity, Heroes on the River. 👉 Learn More and Register Here
This beloved annual tradition brings together writers and readers to promote books, reading, literacy, and literary culture. Themed broadly around the concept of “Revolutions” in recognition of the America’s 250th anniversary, the 2026 Virginia Festival of the Book will include a stellar slate of authors and events, bringing out the best in poetry, children’s literature, fiction and non-fiction.
Most events are free, although some require registration and/or purchased tickets ahead of time. Make the most of your time and also attend the Indie Short Film Festival, which is taking place on the historic Downtown Mall that same weekend!
Established in 1976, the Charlottesville Ten Miler is Central Virginia's premiere foot race, offering a scenic and challenging route through the heart of the city. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or looking to tackle your first long-distance run, this is a fun, unique race! Not able to make it? Check out these other local spring races, including the Charlottesville Marathon on April 11th.
Yes, Charlottesville has tulip fields! In November, Chiles Peach Orchard planted 175,000 bulbs across two acres of farmland. Those tulips are expected to bloom between late March and early April for approximately three weeks. Early-bird season passes are currently available for purchase online and allow access once a day for the duration of the tulip season. Day passes will be released once the tulips bloom.
Passes will include access to the tulip field, five pick-your-own tulip stems, photo ops, and a sweet treat!
What better way to celebrate Women’s History Month than by celebrating the women of the Monticello Wine Trail? Their creativity, collaboration, and diversity in style amongst women winemakers exemplify the qualities that garnered Charlottesville the “Wine Region of the Year” Wine Star award from Wine Enthusiast in 2023.
Don’t wait to book your stay and take part in all of these wonderful spring events! Come for a whole week and enjoy affordable rates for mid-week stays before peak season kicks off next month.
Explore our map of hotels, B&B’s, resorts, and other accommodations on our Places to Stay page.
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