RICHMOND, Va. (May 11, 2026) – Rise Academy is excited to host The East End Block Party for a 2nd year in a row. Last year, over 250 guests, including Mayor Danny Avula, attended the event. This year, the community celebration will expand to include local vendors and artisans.
The block party is designed to bring people together, celebrate all students in the area, and highlight the work of The East End community. The event is family-friendly and free to the public to ensure it can remain accessible to all.
“There’s something powerful about stepping back and simply celebrating together as a community," says Brittany Lopes, Rise Academy’s Head of School. “This is an event that serves as a reminder of the joy that exists when people come together.”
Guests can expect food from Hawks BBQ and Bonos Caribbean, music from DJ Chuck T, raffles, and swag.
For more information about the The East End Block Party, visit https://www.riseacademyrva.org/eebp2026
About Rise Academy
Rise Academy is the only independent high school in Richmond’s East End. The school is tuition-free to ensure it remains accessible to any family in the community, and meals, transportation, and other care items are provided at no cost to families. The school runs solely on the generosity of private donations and partners with community organizations to enrich the student experience.
