Warriors In Bloom
August 2, 2025 | 12:00-5:00 pm  
Agecroft Hall & Gardens

Virago Alley, the non-profit behind The Richmond Renfaire, brings history to life on the stunning grounds of Agecroft Hall & Gardens. Warriors In Bloom is a celebration of bold figures who dared to defy conventions, changing history in the process.

TICKET LINK!

Check out a sneak peek of the event map to get a closer look at what to expect on August 2nd hosted on the stunning grounds of Agecroft Hall & Gardens.

Warriors in Bloom is a family-friendly renfaire-style event that will feature:

  • A Vendor Alley of Local Artisans and Makers featuring 50 Merchants.!

  • Performances that include Storytelling, Puppetry, Reenactments, and Live Music.
    A Reverse Witch Trial, Myths & Legends of Heroic Female Warriors including Joan of Arc,

  • Hema and Samurai Combat and Axe Throwing Demonstrations!

  • Scavenger Hunts in the Gardens

  • Youth Games and Crafting Activities

  • Food Trucks, Beer, Wine, Cider and Mead

All proceeds from Warriors in Bloom support the development of the 2026 Richmond Renfaire.

Please note: our map is subject to change with more exciting collaborations to come! Check out a list of confirmed collaborators to date…

Agecroft Hall & Gardens, Richmond Renaissance Faire, Shield n Sheath, Join or Die Knives, Classic Party Rentals of VA, Gusher, All the Saints Theater Company, Eli Owens, Coalition Theater, Spooky Hollow Storytellers, Ferox, RVA Katana, Japanese Sword Arts Study, Windblown Sisters Botanicals, Bowler Images, Richmond Faerie Federation, Vivify Gardens, Richmond Weavers Guild, Black Heath Meadery, Blue Bee Cider and more!

Virago Alley seeks to reclaim the word “virago”—once used to scorn women of strength—to invite others to feel empowered in spite of the expectations that society has placed on them. This event is not just a tribute, but a declaration of identity to honor viragos past and inspire those yet to come.

This immersive event spotlights legendary figures such as Joan of Arc, Tomyris, Rani Durgavati, and Grace O'Malley, through a mix of performances, lectures, storytelling, crafting activities, and an open-air artisan market. Enjoy local vendors, historically inspired fare, and a variety of family-friendly activities in a setting that perfectly blends past and present.

Warriors In Bloom is presented by Virago Alley in partnership with Agecroft Hall & Gardens.

In remembrance to these brave figures, tickets will go on sale on Joan of Arc Feast Day, Friday, May 30th. More details to come.

Vendor applications are now open for Warriors in Bloom⚔️

This first-of-its-kind event takes place at 🌷Agecroft Hall & Gardens🌷 on August 2nd from 12-5 pm, and celebrates bold figures who dared to defy convention, making history in the process.

Virago Alley is seeking vendors who align with the event’s themes of bravery, empowerment, historical practices and creative techniques, ties to nature, and overall badassery. Crafters, food vendors, costumes, accessories, NA beverage, historic artisans and more!

🌱 Applications will be accepted through June 29 at 11:59 pm.
Application Link:
https://www.eventeny.com/events/vendor/?id=33137

DEFINING VIRAGO

Vi·​ra·​go (n): a woman of great stature, strength, and courage

The original Latin meaning of virago was "female warrior". But in later centuries the meaning shifted toward the negative. The most famous virago in English literature is the ferocious Kate in Shakespeare's The Taming of the Shrew. Some historical viragoes have also become famous. Agrippina poisoned her husband, the Emperor Claudius, so that her son Nero could take his place (but it was Nero himself who eventually had her assassinated). And Queen Eleanor of Aquitaine, a powerful virago of the 12th century, was imprisoned by her husband, King Henry II of England, after she encouraged their sons to rebel against him. - Mirriam Webster

Goal: To challenge societal expectations, promote inclusive environments, and encourage individuals to embrace diversity and challenge their own biases through education, awareness, and active participation in creating a more equitable world.