Richmond’s annual River City Pirate Ball is set to return on June 27, 2026, bringing a night of pirate-inspired entertainment, music, and nightlife to the historic The Hofheimer Building. Presented by After Dark RVA and co-produced by Markster Con Productions and DC Creators, this 21+ event celebrates Richmond’s maritime history and connection to the James River with a themed costume ball centered around pirate culture.
The evening begins with the “Skallywag Happy Hour” pre-party from 7:00–8:00 p.m. in the venue lounge before the main event opens in the Hofheimer’s Loft space. Guests will be joined by Blackbeard's Crew, a pirate reenactment group associated with Hampton’s Blackbeard Pirate Festival, who will host the pre-party festivities. Organizers say attendees can expect pirate-themed cocktails, costume contests, themed photo opportunities, and live entertainment throughout the night.
Musical entertainment will feature Death By Bellows performing sing-along sea shanties and pirate-inspired music, alongside appearances by Kat “Ring Tone” of the Motley Tones and dance music from DJ Tony-T. Organizers are also encouraging guests to attend in pirate, colonial, Renaissance Faire, or Victorian-inspired attire, though costumes are not required. A “Best-Dressed Pirate/Wench Contest” will award prizes for standout looks during the evening.
In addition to the entertainment, the event will host a charity canned food drive benefiting Feed More. Attendees who donate canned goods will receive raffle tickets for prize drawings, with every two cans equaling one entry. Organizers describe the Pirate Ball as both a celebration of Richmond’s riverfront history and a community-focused nightlife experience designed to blend immersive entertainment, live music, and charitable giving into one large-scale summer event.
