May 20, 2026, by Vicki Duong, published in The Georgia Straight
Richmond’s annual Doors Open weekend is back, offering a chance to poke around some of the city’s lesser-seen spaces without needing an invitation or a keycard.
Richmond Fire Rescue rises to the occasion. Source: Alison Boulier, courtesy of Richmond Museum Society
The 19th annual Doors Open Richmond will take place June 6 and 7, with more than 40 sites across the city opening to the public for free. Organized by the Richmond Museum Society, the event highlights the cultural organizations, historical landmarks, community spaces, and behind-the-scenes operations that help shape Richmond beyond the airport layover reputation.
This year’s lineup ranges from heritage sites and places of worship to geothermal utilities and pottery studios. Visitors can explore the London Farm, a four-acre heritage property showcasing Richmond’s agricultural history from the late 1800s to the 1930s, or stop by the Richmond Potters Club to learn more about ceramic-making. One of the more unique entries is the Alexandra District Energy Utility, which will offer a look inside the city’s geothermal energy system.
The free bus tours are also returning this year, including the popular Sacred Spaces route, which visits faith institutions across Richmond. Another route, the Discover Doors Open tour, focuses on community spaces and local organizations, with stops such as The Sharing Farm and the Sea Island Heritage Society.
“Every June, Doors Open Richmond provides a spotlight on what makes the city so special by bringing its vibrant character to life for the nearly 300,000 people who call it home, including myself,” shares chair of the Richmond Museum Society Bilan Hassan, in a statement. “Richmond is shaped by a rich mix of cultures, unique perspectives, and lived experiences. The event celebrates that diversity by inviting the public to connect with the people and places that define the community, including business leaders who share their unique experiences.”
Doors Open Richmond 2026
When: June 6 and 7
Where: Various venues across Richmond
Admission: Free. Most programming is available on a walk-in basis, some require advance registration here