Tom Tom Festival 2025: Full Schedule

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5:50am EDT

Prolyfyck Community Walk & Run with Special Guest, UVA President Jim Ryan

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:50am - 7:00am EDT

Jefferson School African American Heritage Center

Lace-up your shoes and take to the streets for a fun run with the Prolyfyck run crew in support of a unified community where representation and inclusion matter. Prolyfycks’ mindset centers around community and abundance, rather than competition. Whether you come alone or with a group, you will receive an abundance of encouragement, support, and love along the way! Run together, not against each other!

For this event at Tom Tom Festival, the walk and run will feature a special guest, UVA President Jim Ryan, an avid community runner!

At the end of the run, participants will circle up for announcements, community support, recognition of new folx, and finally to let some rage out (release any internal energy/emotion flowing in the body through yelling) before the close of the event.

Walkers will begin at 5:50 AM, followed by runners at 6 AM.

Please bring a water bottle.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Speakers

James 'Littlez' Dowell

Co-founder, Prolyfyck

Native of Charlottesville, co-founder of Prolyfyck Run Creww and Marathoner.

Sponsors

Prolyfyck

Prolyfyck Run Creww got started in the summer of 2019. Named after Nipsey Hussle’s Victory Lap lyric “I'm prolific, so gifted. I'm the type that's gon' go get it.” The group has adopted that mindset, being proactive in their approach, rather than sitting, waiting for opportunities... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:50am - 7:00am EDT
Jefferson School African American Heritage Center

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

10:00am EDT

“Let’s Talk”: A Panel Discussion About Conversations During Conflict

Wednesday March 19, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT

City Space on the Downtown Mall

When conflict, harm or crime happens, where can those involved get support if they want to talk it through? This panel discussion brings together numerous organizations in Charlottesville who provide support for these conversations. Come to build our community's conflict-competency by learning what resources are available to you, whether you are in conflict with a landlord, co-parent, neighbor, friend, police officer, or anyone who has hurt or harmed you.

Directions:
City Space does not show up on Google Maps by that name; please search the street address 100 5th Street NE. Please leave enough time to park. City Space is also very close to the Market Street Parking Garage.
If you're on Market Street, walk down 5th Street and right before you hit the downtown mall, look left and go up the outdoor stairs, and you'll see the glass doors. OR if you're on the downtown mall, go to the left of the Mr. Fix It entrance, up the outdoor stairs, and you'll see it on your right.
Keep an eye out for signage for the event!

******************************************************************************************
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Speakers

Erin Campbell

Co-Director, Central Virginia Community Justice

Erin has spent most of her life as a mentor, primarily in carpentry coaching, transformational nature connection experiences, and survival skills instruction. After completing a graduate degree in Conflict Transformation at Eastern Mennonite University, she has supported various group... Read More →

Taylor Frome

Executive Director, Mediation Center of Charlottesville

Taylor Frome is the current Executive Director of the Mediation Center of Charlottesville. Prior to this she served as founder and executive Director of YESPhilly (aka Youth Empowerment Services), and also founder of the YouthBuild Philadelphia Charter School. For over 20 years... Read More →

Inez M. Gonzalez

Executive Director Police Civilian Oversight Board, City of Charlottesville

Inez M. Gonzalez was appointed Executive Director of the City of Charlottesville’s Police Civilian Oversight Board (PCOB) and began serving in that capacity effective May 1, 2023. Gonzalez is focused on increasing the public’s confidence in the Charlottesville Police Department... Read More →

Eddie Howard

Director, Abundant Life Ministries

Eddie Howard joined as Executive Director in fall 2021, after serving on staff for eight years in the early 2000’s. Eddie grew up in the Prospect neighborhood, Abundant Life’s focus for ministry and served on staff building deep relationships in the community and helping to launch... Read More →

Todd Niemeier

Director, City of Charlottesville Human Rights Commission

Todd Niemeier (he/him) has served as the Director of the City of Charlottesville Human Rights Commission and Office of Human Rights since September 2021. He has worked for the Office of Human Rights since February 2018, serving first as Community Outreach & Investigation Specialist... Read More →

Bryan Page

Assistant Director, BUCK Squad

I am the Assistant Executive Director of BuckSquad, a violence interrupter group focused on combating gun violence. Additionally, I serve as the Director and Founder of Real Reentry.

Collaborator

Central Virginia Community Justice

CVCJ provides a restorative justice (RJ) process as a diversion from criminal prosecution or in situations outside of the legal system. Anyone can reach out to CVCJ to ask about RJ–referral sources include people who have been harmed, people responsible for harm, prosecuting and... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am EDT
City Space on the Downtown Mall

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

12:00pm EDT

Thriving Together Through Collective Rest and Recovery

Wednesday March 19, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT

Heart and Soul Fitness

Join us for a time of community rest and recovery. This session will focus on a gentle and relaxing style of yoga that utilizes props such as blankets, bolsters, and blocks to support the body in comfortable and restful postures. This session is designed to calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and promote deep relaxation. Each “pose” is held for an extended period of time (usually 5-10 minutes) to allow the body to fully release tension and ease into a state of relaxation. We are not stretching the body into poses, we are simply giving space for rest. This session is suitable for all levels, including beginners, and is especially beneficial for those recovering from injury or illness, managing chronic pain, or looking to reduce stress and anxiety. Join us for a calming and rejuvenating experience that is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and renewed.

Please wear comfortable clothing. You may also bring personal props (optional): blanket, bolster, yoga mat, blocks.

******************************************************************************************
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Speakers

Nicole Hawker

Founder, Soul & Soul Fitness

Nicole Hawker is a highly accomplished fitness professional, recognized for her experience in counseling, social work, and the fitness industry. A native of Charlottesville, Virginia, Nicole is the Founder of Heart and Soul Fitness, a non-profit studio that she established in 2022... Read More →

Collaborator

Heart & Soul Fitness

Heart and Soul Fitness, located in Charlottesville, Virginia, was founded by Nicole Hawker, who proudly serves as our Executive Director. Her passion for community wellness and belief in the transformative power of exercise and wellness education are the driving forces behind our... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Heart and Soul Fitness

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

1:30pm EDT

Bringing the Cville Community Together: All-Levels Vinyasa Yoga Flow

Wednesday March 19, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT

Salute The Sun Yoga

Join us as Shannon Burns, the heart behind Salute the Sun Yoga, guides you through a complimentary yoga class. Embrace the opportunity to flow freely, connect with your body, and bask in the radiance of community spirit.

Participant Waiver Required.

******************************************************************************************
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Speakers

Shannon Burns

Founder, Salute the Sun Yoga

Shannon Burns, E-RYT 500/E-RYT 200, is the founder of Salute the Sun Yoga, which she opened in 2021. Previously, Shannon was the Lead Vinyasa Yoga Teacher at FlyDog Studio in Charlottesville, Virginia and taught for 6+ years at the studio. She has practiced yoga since 1996, and completed... Read More →

Collaborator

Salute The Sun Yoga

Boutique Yoga Studio Offering Small Classes and Strong Community Salute the Sun Yoga is a boutique yoga studio in Charlottesville, VA within walking distance to the University of Virginia. With a focus on small class sizes, alignment-based and intuitive sequences, we foster a deep... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm EDT
Salute The Sun Yoga

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

3:30pm EDT

Elevate Your Vote: Ranked Choice Voting in Charlottesville

Wednesday March 19, 2025 3:30pm - 4:15pm EDT

Jefferson-Madison Regional Library | Central Library | Swanson Room 201 E. Market Street, Charlottesville

Elevate Your Vote, Transform Our Community!

Discover how Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) - an innovative democratic approach that is rapidly gaining traction nationwide - could revolutionize our elections in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Join us for a presentation that demystifies RCV and shows its power to amplify your voice in shaping the future of our community. With compelling and real success stories, we’ll explore RCV’s advantages over traditional voting methods, ensuring you leave informed and inspired.

This isn't just about change, it's about progress! With Charlottesville's City Council unanimously backing RCV for 2025, we're on the brink of a democratic evolution. Be part of this pivotal movement - let’s collectively pave the way for a more representative, inclusive, and hopeful political future.
Your participation matters!

Discover more at RCVirginia.org.

******************************************************************************************
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Speakers

Nick Co

State Leader, Veterans for All Voters

Nick is a State Leader for Veterans for All Voters. After graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy and serving as a Naval Officer for 5 years, he continues his passion for service to the community and Nation through non-partisan democracy reform and through his board leadership for... Read More →

Liz White

Executive Director, UpVote Virginia

Liz White serves as UpVote Virginia’s founding Executive Director. She joined OneVirginia2021 in 2015 and was instrumental in the growth and development of Virginia’s redistricting reform movement, including leading the Presence at the Polls program, which sends hundreds of volunteers... Read More →

Collaborator

Jefferson-Madison Regional Library

JMRL fosters personal growth and life-long learning for all by connecting people with ideas, information, and each other.WE SERVE OUR COMMUNITY. Our goal is to deliver exceptional service and honor our place at the center of the communities we support. We are committed to offering... Read More →

UpVote Virginia

Our focus will always be on voters, not politics. Although our organization is a movement of Democrats, Republicans, and Independents, our operation will be nonpartisan. We recognize that hyperpartisan influences have often gotten in the way of progress when it comes to preserving... Read More →

Veterans for All Voters

Veterans for All Voters is a nonprofit organization with a mission to build and mobilize a community of military veterans to advocate for elections that unlock competition, make politics less toxic, and government more effective. The organization focuses on specific election innovations... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 3:30pm - 4:15pm EDT
Jefferson-Madison Regional Library | Central Library | Swanson Room 201 E. Market Street, Charlottesville

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

4:00pm EDT

The Art of Affirmations: An Interactive Workshop

Wednesday March 19, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm EDT

The Scrappy Elephant

Join for an empowering event focused on crafting your own affirmation cards and embracing the power of positive thinking. Discover the essence of affirmations with a brief presentation introducing SARA and the significance of affirmations in our daily lives. Afterwards, dive into creativity as you design your very own affirmation cards!

******************************************************************************************
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Speakers

Katie Aplis

Director of Programs, Sexual Assault Resource Agency (SARA)

Originally hailing from Austin, Texas, Katie has been in Charlottesville for a little over three years. She works with folks at SARA on the hotline, at the emergency room, and with training volunteers. Her hobbies include getting the ratio of milk to cereal just right and watching... Read More →

Kenna Campfield

-, Sexual Assault Resource Agency

Kenna Campfield is a passionate advocate dedicated to supporting survivors of sexual assault in rural communities. She specializes in providing trauma-informed care, crisis intervention, and community outreach services tailored to the unique needs of rural areas. Through her work... Read More →

Collaborator

Sexual Assault Resource Agency

The Sexual Assault Resource Agency (SARA) is a 501(c)3 non-profit agency working to eliminate sexual violence and its impacts through education, advocacy, and support services. SARA serves individuals and communities in the City of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Fluvanna... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 4:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
The Scrappy Elephant

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

5:00pm EDT

Society & Justice | Mixer

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm EDT

Society & Justice Mixer at the West Stage at the Downtown Mall Block Party.
Venue Map

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 7:00pm EDT

Conference: Society & Justice

Cost Free

5:00pm EDT

Downtown Mall Block Party!

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

Downtown Mall - E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902

The Downtown Mall Block Party is back!

Featuring the West Stage, Central Stage, and East Stage.

Enjoy two days of music, dancing, performances, new friends, great food, and so many surprises. Bring your friends and family and hit the historic bricks of the Mall to experience several stages of non-stop entertainment from Cville’s finest, check out local galleries, grab a drink from a local bar, and make memories! This is an event you don’t want to miss. It’s an all-out community celebration.

Stage map at bottom of page.

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

AKAdeMiX Dance Crew

AKAdeMiX Dance Crew, also known as the Mix, was formed in 2010 by students at the University of Virginia who prided themselves on diversity in dance and culture. As an open style dance crew, AKAdeMiX aims to embolden the UVa and DMV dance community by acknowledging the inspiration... Read More →

Bad Hat Fire

NA, Rusty Iris Art Bus

Bad Hat Fire is full of CVL natives and members have been entranced by the forced focus of fire for over 20 years. A group of like-minded fire artists emerged easily in Charlottesville after the IX warehouse's fire circus in 2006, McGuffey Art Center fire circles, Afton Mountain... Read More →

Capoeira Resistência Cville

Capoeira(Cah-po-ay-ra), most often recognized by its fluid, dance-like movements, is an Afro-Brazilian martial art disguised as dance developed by Angolan slaves in Brazil during the colonial period. Because slaves were not permitted to arm themselves and fight, capoeira allowed them... Read More →

DJ Double U

N/A, N/A

DJ Double U is an open format DJ based in Charlottesville, VA. He has 13+ years of experience DJing professionally in Central Va. Whether he is DJing local bars at UVA or on the downtown mall, sharing the stage with local and mainstream artists, or creating unforgettable memories... Read More →

DJ Flatline Lay

DND Dancers

The D.N.D. Dance Team is a community formed competitive hip-hop majorette team from Charlottesville, VA. The team was formed in 2018, and since then has grown to over 30 members with girls ranging from 6 - 17 years old .The team has preformed locally and have competed up and down... Read More →

Elite Empire

Banks Collage Elite Empire is a 501(c)(3) Non Profit Organization that reaches out to young people in the community to empower them through the art of Majorette Hip Hop dance. Majorette Hip Hop is a very high energy dance style. It utilizes a combination of many different dance styles... Read More →

Foreign Playerz

N/A, N/A

Foreign Playerz is a dynamic and vibrant organization that specializes in creating social dance events for Latin dances such as bachata, salsa, zouk, Cumbia, merengue, and many other types of Latin dance. Founded by passionate dancers, Foreign Playerz aims to promote the love and... Read More →

Kara Leona

Kara Leona singing her new single 'On My Own' along with other Latin favorites!

Markeese Allen

NA, NA

Keese is an aspiring artist from Charlottesville, VA. I’ve done numerous shows throughout the area, including UVA, the Jefferson, the southern, etc. I’ve been featured in the daily progress, C-Ville weekly, the local radio stations. My mission is to put this city on the map for... Read More →

The Rusty Iris Art Bus

The Rusty Iris is a culmination of over a decade of community action. Scintillation Fire Troupe, Tet'nus Art Car, Burning Man, Full Moon Fire Jams, KDub Unival, IX Art Park, and Bad Hat Fire have all contributed to the drive to manifest The Rusty Iris. Rusty's artistic team is remarkable... Read More →

Sponsors

City Of Charlottesville

Friends of Charlottesville Downtown

Ludwig Kuttner

R.L.Beyer Custom Homes

Virginia Tourism

Woodard Properties

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Downtown Mall - E Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

5:00pm EDT

EAST STAGE | Rusty Iris Art Bus

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

East Stage | Downtown Mall

Located at the 4th Street Crossing, the family and performance stage features Charlottesville favorites in an engaging and interactive setting. Come explore the Rusty Iris Art Bus & try some hula hoops or fire spinning props (fire not included!)

Performance Schedule:
7pm - 7:30pm Capoeira Resistência Cville
8pm - 8:30pm Bad Hat Fire Performance
9pm - 9:30pm Bad Hat Fire Performance

Stage map at bottom of page.

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Bad Hat Fire

NA, Rusty Iris Art Bus

Capoeira Resistência Cville

The Rusty Iris Art Bus

Sponsors

City Of Charlottesville

CVille Weekly

Friends of Charlottesville Downtown

Ludwig Kuttner

R.L.Beyer Custom Homes

Virginia Tourism

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
East Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

5:00pm EDT

WEST STAGE | R&B + Dance

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

West Stage | Downtown Mall

Friday night kicks off at the West Stage with beats and performance stage anchored by local favorites, DJ FlatlineLay and DJ DoubleU, laying down radio-friendly vibes all evening long. They will be joined by dance performances from Elite Empire, D.N.D Dancers, AKAdeMiX Dance Crew as well as hip hop performances from other Charlottesville favorites.

This Stage is Supported by Hit The Deck Entertainment

All night, enjoy sounds from DJ Double U & DJ FlatlineLay

Full Schedule:
5:00 - 5:45 - Hurt City DJs - Block Party Introduction - DJ Double U & DJ Flatline
5:45 - 6:00 - Cass
6:00 - 6:15 - Wayve
6:15 - 6:30 - Yolonda Coles Jones
6:30 - 6:45 - AkadeMix Dance Crew
6:45 - 7:00 - Keese
7:00 - 7:15 - Big Lean
7:15 - 7:30 - Waasi
7:30 - 7:45 - DND Dancers
7:45 - 8:00 - LeeBanga
8:00 - 8:30 - Hurt City DJs (Block Party/Dance Party Intermission) - DJ Double U/DJ Flatline
8:30 - 8:45 - Elite Empire Dance Crew
8:45 - 9:00 - Illa Style
9:00 - 9:15 - Heavy Gripp LT
9:15 - 10:00 - Hurt City DJs Block Party DJ Battle featuring DJ Double U & DJ Flatline

Stage map at bottom of page.

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

AKAdeMiX Dance Crew

Big Lean

Big Lean is an MC/producer from Virginia with a lifestyle brand that motivates and inspires. His music and lyrics paint a vivid picture that focus on themes such as empowerment, self-improvement, and personal growth. He incorporates inspirational stories into his performances, connecting... Read More →

Cass

DJ Double U

N/A, N/A

DJ Flatline Lay

DND Dancers

Elite Empire

Heavy Gripp LT

Born Laraj Thomas in (Charlottesville , Virginia) Hip Hop sensation “Heavy Gripp LT” has been traveling and representing the community from city to city & state to state introducing his brand ( Heavy Gripp Entertainment). From thousands of views on YouTube to countless competitions... Read More →

ILLA STYLES

Illa Styles, hailing from Richmond, Virginia, is a captivating figure in the city's hip-hop scene. He is known for his genre-bending musical Style - pushes boundaries, venturing beyond traditional rap into R&B, rock, drum & bass, and even house music.His lyrical prowess - genuine... Read More →

LeeBangah

With an unwavering commitment to his craft, Brandon Dudley, better known as LeeBangah, has emerged as a leader in the Charlottesville hip hop scene. His tireless efforts have garnered attention from media outlets like Dark Magazine, The Underground Fix, The Trap, Media Made Magazine... Read More →

Markeese Allen

NA, NA

Waasi

Waasi, an independent hip hop artist based out of Charlottesville, Virginia is on the rise across the east coast with his unique brand of sounds and style. With his 2 albums ``From Virginia With Love" and "No Love Lost" Waasi has been able to cultivate a fan base and connect with... Read More →

Wayve

Wayve, a 2022 University of Virginia alum, hails from Richmond, VA, but spent his college years in Charlottesville, VA. It was during this time that he collaborated with Professor A.D Carson, embarking on his musical journey with the creation and release of his initial music projects... Read More →

Yolonda Coles Jones

Born to church people in Charlottesville, VA--an evangelist and a pastor. Raised in church and around church culture for the first part of her life, Yolonda's earliest memories are of wooden floorboards, church pews and a sea of Black people in their "Sunday Best" staring intently... Read More →

Sponsors

City Of Charlottesville

CVille Weekly

Friends of Charlottesville Downtown

Ludwig Kuttner

R.L.Beyer Custom Homes

Virginia Tourism

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
West Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

5:01pm EDT

West Stage | Hurt City DJs: DJ Flatline Lay & DJ Double U

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:01pm - 6:00pm EDT

West Stage | Downtown Mall

Start the night off right with jams from Hurt City DJs!

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

DJ Double U

N/A, N/A

DJ Flatline Lay

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:01pm - 6:00pm EDT
West Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

5:01pm EDT

CENTRAL STAGE | Latin Partner Dance

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:01pm - 10:00pm EDT

Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Central Place will come alive on Friday night with the rhythms of Latin America. Come out and dance, or have a drink and watch Charlottesville’s finest.

Hosted by Foreign Playerz, the stage will feature social dance ranging from bachata, salsa, Cumbia, merengue, and many other types of Latin dance. These passionate dancers will promote the love and appreciation of Latin dance and culture by providing a welcoming, safe and inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds and skill levels.

The event will kick off with our talented instructor Gia Ray leading a fun and interactive dance lesson on the basics of Bachata, one of the most popular Latin dances today. She will do a demonstration/performance to show you how to move with the music.

Gia will also teach a salsa lesson and do a demonstration/performance to show you how to use the steps you will be learning that will get you moving on the dance floor in no time.

Our very own DJ X will be rocking the block with the hottest bachata, salsa, zouk,Kizomba, cumbia, merengue reggaeton and all the Latin hottest music, our playlist is created from dancer for dancers so you know the dance floor will be a fuego!!

To make the event even more exciting, we will be having a free raffle giveaway, with surprise prizes so make sure you get your free ticket at the DJ booth. This is your chance to learn some new dance moves, meet new people, and potentially win some cool prizes!

Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to experience the beauty and excitement of Latin dance. Join us at the Tom Tom festival block party and let’s dance the night away!

Schedule of Events Here:

Dance the night away with DJ X of Foreign Playerz, and stop by for some amazing featured performances all night long:

5:30 - 6:30pm Lessons on Bachata Basics & Salsa by Gia Ray
6:30 Latin Dance Performance by Gia Ray and Xavier Vi
6:45 Kara Leona Live signing & bachata performance
7:30pm Foreign Playerz Raffle for apparel and gift cards!
9pm Kara Leona live singing & performance part two!

Stage map at bottom of page.

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Foreign Playerz

N/A, N/A

Gia Ray

Gia Ray got her start as a professional dancer at the age of 21 when she moved to Mexico to be a Salsa and Bachata dancer. After half a year in San Miguel de Allende, she moved to Los Angeles where she worked as a model and actress but still loved to dance in her free time. A... Read More →

Kara Leona

Kara Leona singing her new single 'On My Own' along with other Latin favorites!

Sponsors

City Of Charlottesville

CVille Weekly

Friends of Charlottesville Downtown

Ludwig Kuttner

R.L.Beyer Custom Homes

Virginia Tourism

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:01pm - 10:00pm EDT
Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

5:02pm EDT

Central Stage | Opening Dance Party with Foreign Playerz

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:02pm - 5:30pm EDT

Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Start the night off with our very own DJ X rocking the block with the hottest bachata, salsa, zouk,Kizomba, cumbia, merengue reggaeton and all the Latin hottest music. The playlist is created from dancers for dancers so you know the dance floor will be a fuego!!

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Foreign Playerz

N/A, N/A

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:02pm - 5:30pm EDT
Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

5:30pm EDT

Central Stage | Bachata Basics

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:30pm - 6:30pm EDT

Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Join us for a lesson in Bachata basics with the talented Gia Ray and try it out for yourself!
Be sure to stick around for Gia's demo right before 6pm!

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Foreign Playerz

N/A, N/A

Gia Ray

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:30pm - 6:30pm EDT
Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

5:30pm EDT

Fridays After Five at the Ting Pavilion - No BS Brass Band, The Falsies, and Theocles

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:30pm - 11:00pm EDT

Ting Pavilion

The third annual Downtown Mall Block Party will include an extended evening of live music during Fridays After Five at Ting Pavilion!

Fridays After Five, an iconic part of Charlottesville's music scene, is returning for a 36th season of free live music and fun! For Tom Tom, a supercharged lineup will feature performances from Theocles and The Falsies. Capping off the night will be a headlining performance by RVA's No BS! Brass Band to keep Charlottesville dancing into the night.

The Fridays After Five season kicks off on April 12 and will run through September 13. Each week volunteers work the concessions on behalf of a variety of local non-profits who share in the proceeds, which raises tens of thousands of dollars to support their work in our community.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

No BS! Brass Band

Based in Richmond, Virginia, No BS! Brass Band has quickly earned a reputation as a premiere band to see for heart-pounding energy and uncontrollable dancing. They take their music into uncharted territory, embracing the spirit of New Orleans into its original East Coast modern funk... Read More →

Collaborator

Fridays After Five

Fridays After Five, presented by Bud Light, returns for the 36th Anniversary season of free live music and fun!The season kicks off with the first event on April 12 and will run each Friday thereafter through September 13. Each week volunteers work the concessions on behalf of a variety... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 5:30pm - 11:00pm EDT
Ting Pavilion

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

6:00pm EDT

West Stage | Cass, Wayve, Yolonda Coles Jones, & AkadeMix Dance Crew

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT

West Stage | Downtown Mall

Come by the West Stage - Hurt City DJs spinning all night long with featured performers every hour.

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

AKAdeMiX Dance Crew

Cass

Wayve

Yolonda Coles Jones

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
West Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

6:30pm EDT

Central Stage | Kara Leona

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 6:45pm EDT

Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Stop by Central Stage to witness the talented Kara singing live & her legendary bachata performance

Artists

Kara Leona

Kara Leona singing her new single 'On My Own' along with other Latin favorites!

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 6:45pm EDT
Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

6:30pm EDT

Central Stage | Professional Latin Dance Demonstration

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 6:45pm EDT

Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Stop by Central Stage to witness these talented dancers show of their skills in the art of Latin Dance!

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Foreign Playerz

N/A, N/A

Gia Ray

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 6:45pm EDT
Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

6:30pm EDT

Queer Happy Hour on the Live Arts Terrace

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm EDT

Fourth Floor Terrace

Join Live Arts for a drink on our rooftop terrace before our final weekend of the Virginia premiere of FIREFLIES. Enjoy your first drink on us and get 15% off the show that night with discount code “FIREFLY.”

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Speakers

Jason Elliot

Founder, Out and About

Jason Elliott is a long-time Charlottesville resident, a graduate of the University of Virginia, and a curator of inclusive events in the greater Charlottesville area. In 2022, he founded Out and About to provide consistent opportunities for the LGBTQ+ community to create meaningful relationships, enjoy new adventures, and support local businesses. In addition to these efforts, Jason holds a full-time career in public health and also travels the country as a speaker, model, and entertainer... Read More →

Collaborator

Live Arts

Powered by hundreds of volunteers, Live Arts is a national model for engaged community theater. For more than three decades, we’ve dedicated ourselves to the mission of “forging theater and community” in Charlottesville, Virginia. Our engagement in local communities runs deep... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm EDT
Fourth Floor Terrace

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

6:30pm EDT

Movement Together: Earth Day Conscious Dance Party!

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 8:30pm EDT

McGuffey Arts Center | 201 2nd Street Northwest, Charlottesville

Join a special community dance in celebration of life, peace, and well-being for the Earth and all beings. This event is being hosted by the Cville Dance Co-Op, and will open with a guided group compassion practice and flow into conscious dance (freestyle dance) with a curated selection of earth-honoring music.

Bring awareness to Earth Day and the practice of conscious dance, highlight the beauty of giving and receiving compassion, and cultivate meaningful connections between participants.

This is an all-ages, family-friendly and intoxicant-free event.

Speakers

Chitra McDevitt

The Cville Dance Co-Op

Chitra McDevitt has been dancing with the Cville Dance Co-op since 2010. She is a regular music facilitator/playlist creator and believes dance can heal most anything and bring joy to the darkest places. She has also been teaching yoga since 2003, a yoga therapist since 2014 (C-IAYT... Read More →

Juliet Trail

Founding Director, Courageous Compassion Connection

Juliet Trail, PhD, is the Executive Director of The Coincidence Project, a global nonprofit dedicated to meaningful coincidence, synchronicity and serendipity. Her area of specialty is the connection between compassion, nature, and coincidences. She is also Founding Director of Courageous... Read More →

Collaborator

McGuffey Art Center

McGuffey Art Center is one of the oldest artist-run cooperative art centers in the country. Since its establishment in 1975, the art center has been a community of artists, dedicated to practicing art and passing on the creative spirit to the greater Charlottesville community, through... Read More →

Cville Dance Co-Op

The Charlottesville Dance Co-operative is a purely volunteer-run phenomenon. Community members freely choose their level of participation. We host a conscious dance every Sunday morning from 10:15 am-12:15 pm, and every Friday night from 7:15-9:15 pm, at Common Ground Healing Art... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 6:30pm - 8:30pm EDT
McGuffey Arts Center | 201 2nd Street Northwest, Charlottesville

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

7:00pm EDT

East Stage | Capoeira Resistência Cville

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 7:30pm EDT

East Stage | Downtown Mall

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Capoeira Resistência Cville

Sponsors

Friends of Charlottesville Downtown

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 7:30pm EDT
East Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

7:00pm EDT

West Stage | Keese, Big Lean, Waasi & DND Dancers

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm EDT

West Stage | Downtown Mall

Come by the West Stage - Hurt City DJs spinning all night long with featured performers every hour!

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Big Lean

DND Dancers

Markeese Allen

NA, NA

Waasi

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm EDT
West Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

7:00pm EDT

Beaux Arts Ball: A Masquerade Dance Party for High Schoolers

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

The Looking Glass : IX Art Park

Join us for an enchanting evening of mystery and magic at The Beaux Arts Ball - A free masquerade dance party for high school students. Guests are invited to don their most dazzling attire and elegant masks for a night of glamour and intrigue.

Reserved exclusively for high school students from the following schools:

Charlottesville HS
Albemarle HS
Monticello HS
Western Alb. HS
Community Lab
Renaissance
Tandem

Note: Admission is FREE, but registration is required.

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If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Collaborator

Ix Art Park

The mission of Ix Art Park Foundation is: To spark creativity and inspiration in people’s everyday lives.Ix Art Park seeks to empower its community through curating welcoming spaces that allow everyone in the community a safe and engaging environment to exist creatively. The Foundation... Read More →

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
The Looking Glass : IX Art Park

Community Partner Programs

Cost Free

7:00pm EDT

Central Stage | Dance Party

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

Central Stage | Downtown Mall

After a day of learning how to Salsa and Bachata, show us what you got and dance the night away !

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Foreign Playerz

N/A, N/A

Gia Ray

Wednesday March 19, 2025 7:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

8:00pm EDT

East Stage | Bad Hat Fire Performance

Wednesday March 19, 2025 8:00pm - 8:30pm EDT

East Stage | Downtown Mall

Artists

Bad Hat Fire

NA, Rusty Iris Art Bus

Sponsors

Friends of Charlottesville Downtown

Wednesday March 19, 2025 8:00pm - 8:30pm EDT
East Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

8:00pm EDT

West Stage | LeeBanga, Elite Empire Dance Crew, Illa Styles & Heavy Gripp LT

Wednesday March 19, 2025 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT

West Stage | Downtown Mall

Come by the Wesrt Stage - Hurt City DJs spinning all night long with featured performers every hour!

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

Elite Empire

Heavy Gripp LT

ILLA STYLES

LeeBangah

Wednesday March 19, 2025 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
West Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

9:00pm EDT

Central Stage | Kara Leona

Wednesday March 19, 2025 9:00pm - 9:15pm EDT

Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Stop by Central Stage to witness the talented Kara singing live & her legendary bachata & salsa performance

Artists

Kara Leona

Kara Leona singing her new single 'On My Own' along with other Latin favorites!

Wednesday March 19, 2025 9:00pm - 9:15pm EDT
Central Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

9:00pm EDT

East Stage | Bad Hat Fire Performance

Wednesday March 19, 2025 9:00pm - 9:30pm EDT

East Stage | Downtown Mall

Artists

Bad Hat Fire

NA, Rusty Iris Art Bus

Sponsors

Friends of Charlottesville Downtown

Wednesday March 19, 2025 9:00pm - 9:30pm EDT
East Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

9:00pm EDT

West Stage | Hurt City DJs: DJ Flatline Lay & DJ Double U

Wednesday March 19, 2025 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT

West Stage | Downtown Mall

Hurt City DJs close out the night!

The 3rd Annual Downtown Mall Block Party is brought to you by these CoHosts: The City of Charlottesville, Virginia Tourism, Friends of Downtown, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner and also with support from Woodard Properties

*********
If you plan to attend only free events at Tom Tom and would still like to build your schedule here on Sched, please go to Eventbrite and select the free ticket labeled “Create Your Personal Schedule”. Once you complete the ticketing process, you’ll receive an email from Sched prompting you to create an account and then build your schedule.

Artists

DJ Double U

N/A, N/A

DJ Flatline Lay

Wednesday March 19, 2025 9:00pm - 10:00pm EDT
West Stage | Downtown Mall

Downtown Mall Block Party

Cost Free

Tom Tom Festival 2025

From $2.00