There’s a certain kind of magic that comes alive in Richmond when the locals decide to let their weird flag fly. And the Richmond Cone Parade? That’s as Richmond as it gets—a little absurd, a lot creative, and deeply communal.
So, what exactly is this Cone Parade business? It’s a celebration of, well, cones. Participants are asked to craft their own cone creations and march them proudly through Carytown, a gesture of joy and goodwill designed to uplift each other as we tumble headlong into a new year. Yesterday marked its 17th year, and the event was nothing short of a spectacle. Over 100 people showed up with cones of all shapes, sizes, and levels of seriousness—a record turnout for an event that’s all about keeping the spirit of Richmond strange and wonderful.
It’s hard to hate on something like this. Really. In a world that seems hell-bent on dividing and conquering, here’s a grassroots, unpolished gem of an event that brings people together simply for the sake of having fun. And maybe to stir up some positive vibes for the year ahead.
Photographer Dave Parrish, a man who’s become something of a cultural documentarian for this city, was on hand once again to immortalize the occasion. You could argue that Parrish is the historian of Richmond’s peculiar charm, capturing the essence of events like this with an eye that’s equal parts reverent and irreverent.
Why cones, though? It’s a fair question. The answer lies somewhere between the metaphysical and the ridiculous—a sweet spot Richmond seems to inhabit effortlessly. In sacred geometry, cones are said to focus and channel energy. They’re a symbol of creation, of bringing something into being. But honestly? It’s also just plain fun. There’s a freeing kind of joy in crafting something strange and silly, slapping it on your head (or your car, or your pet), and parading it down the street with your neighbors.
The Cone Parade starts at the parking lot in front of the Aquarian Bookshop on Thompson Street—because where else would such an event begin? From there, the march moves down Cary Street to the Boulevard and back again. No registration. No pretension. Just show up, cone in hand (or on head), and join the parade.
As we head into 2025, let’s take a page out of the Cone Parade’s playbook. Let’s keep things weird, Richmond. Let’s keep them fun. Because if there’s one thing this city doesn’t need, it’s more of the same. And if there’s one thing it does need? A little more cone energy.
Photos by Dave Parrish
