If April showers bring May flowers, the month of May in Charlottesville promises many opportunities for you to be outside enjoying the sunshine. At Foxfield Inn, we know you’ll find something exciting to explore, whether your interests lie in history, wine and beer, or arts and crafts.
Thomas Jefferson’s home is open for tours year-round. But be sure to take advantage of the wonderful staff and resources they have by attending one of their spring workshops!
5/3 Flower Arranging in the Garden
5/10 Digital Photography in the Garden
5/15, 5/17, 5/29 Bird Walk
5/22 Painting & Sketching in the Garden
5/24 Herbs and Their Uses in Early American Gardens
Swananoa Palace Open House
Saturday-Sunday, May 3-4; Saturday-Sunday, May 24-25 (11:30-5:30)
It’s not often one gets to visit a palace in Europe, much less in the United States. This month, Afton’s Swananoa Palace is open for tours. Marvel at the 52-room, marble palace and gardens built in 1912 and modeled after Rome’s Villa de Medici. The home was built by Major James Dooley as a gift for his wife; she named the estate Swananoa in honor of swans, which mate for life. As they say, Virginia is for lovers. Call 434-942-5201 for more information.
Charlottesville Festival of Cultures
Saturday, May 10 (10-4)
This free event at Lee Park near the Downtown Mall celebrates Charlottesville’s diversity through song, dance, and storytelling performances as well as crafts, food, and demonstrations. A unique stop after the visiting the City Market.
Wine Festival at Monticello
Saturday, May 10 (6-9 P.M.)
Enjoy some of the area’s best wines all in one place – at Monticello! See the restored vineyards and wine cellar, tour Mr. Jefferson’s home, and enjoy live music. Tickets can be purchased online in advance here.
Crozet Arts and Crafts Festival
Saturday-Sunday, May 10-11 (10-5)
Looking for a unique gift, piece of art, or home accent? Check out dozens of artists, artisans, and craftspeople all in one place. Just a short drive away, $6 entry fee gives you access to all vendors, plus there is wine tasting, painting lessons, and food/beverage. Great way to spend the afternoon, or stop by on your way back from a winery/brewery tour.
Beer Tasting 101 at Wild Wolf Brewing Company
Wednesday, May 14 (all day)
Celebrate American Craft Beer Week at Wild Wolf with beer-themed events all week long, like this beer tasting class. Gain the vocabulary and taste “memories” that will allow you to taste beer like a pro, and test your skills with the blind taste test.
Roseland Polo at King Family Vineyards
Sundays, beginning May 25 (1 P.M.)
A popular way to spend a Sunday afternoon, pack a picnic lunch and head out to King Family Vineyards to watch a rousing polo match. Pull your car up near the field, or watch from the tasting room’s patio. King Family wines available for purchase. See complete guidelines here.
Interested in taking a hike to enjoy the weather? Check out our post on great local spots.
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We’re looking forward to seeing you at Foxfield Inn in May! Let us know what events you’ll be adding to your itinerary and how else we can make your visit special.
Your Innkeepers,
Dan & Kathryn Bundy
Foxfield Inn | A Charlottesville, VA Bed and Breakfast
