As the weather turns colder, our friends at Keep Virginia Beautiful are reminding us that it’s time to start thinking about signing up for their winter festival — Shiver in the River — the centerpiece of which is an icy plunge into the James River.

KVB Executive Director Mike Baum said that they moved this year’s festival, which also includes a 5K and a riverside litter cleanup, from January to late-February (Feb. 24 to be exact) to get away from the holidays. Check below for the schedule, and click here to learn more and to sign up.

Runners pound Tredegar Street during last year’s 5K. Credit: KVB

Shiver in the River 2018

10 a.m. — Community Cleanup 
Shiver in the River will start with a cleanup along the banks of the James River and in a number of RVA communities. Picking up litter and recyclables is at the very heart of Keep Virginia Beautiful. The cleanup is free, and you can earn incentives by creating a fundraising page.

Noon — 5K Walk/Run
The 5K Walk/Run is a fun event for the whole family that will start and end at Historic Tredegar, and take in the beauty of the James River. Online registration ends on Thursday, February 22nd, but walk up registration will be available at packet pickup on Friday, February 23rd, and on the day of the event. When you create a fundraising page, your registration fee counts toward your incentive awards. Short sleeve T-shirts are included in the 5K registration.  Please note, race registration fees are not refundable.

2 p.m. — The James River Jump
The highlight of Shiver in the River is the James River Jump!  This fundraising plunge will take place along the chilly banks of the James near Historic Tredegar. A minimum of $75 must be raised to participate in the Jump and to receive a commemorative long sleeve T-shirt. Online registration ends on Thursday, February 22nd, but walk up registration will be available at packet pickup on Friday, February 23rd, and on the day of the event.

11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Winter Festival!
There will be music, beverages, food, and more!  This is the Coolest Winter Festival in Richmond, and shows our love for Virginia!