Tim Barry, one of River City’s most celebrated singer-songwriters, is known for telling it like it is. Over the years, Barry’s hard-earned miles have taken him far and wide, but lucky for us—he always comes home. And when he does, the local legend has a knack for helping Richmond roll up its sleeves and get to work.
The lessons Barry shares are raw, and they can leave a sting. But they’re also filled with hope. And this year, during his annual November Fest at The Camel, they’re designed to inspire action.
That’s right, not only is Barry treating his hometown to three days of live performances, but he’s again rallying the city for a cause—one that’s more Richmond than any concert hall or merch table. Like last year, the upcoming shows will begin not on a stage, but by the river.
November Fest tickets have already sold out in a flurry, snapped up by fans who understand that Barry’s voice doesn’t just come through in his music—it’s in the earth underfoot, in the train cars that run through the heart of this city, and in every ripple of the James. Before any of us pack into The Camel, shoulder to shoulder with beers raised, there’s work to be done. The James River—Richmond’s ancient artery—and its surrounding trails need a cleanup, and Barry has thrown down the gauntlet. He’s issued an open call to the city: show up, lend a hand, and give back.
On the weekend of November Fest, Barry will be leading the charge down to the riverbanks with local nonprofit Keep Virginia Cozy, Friends of the James River Park System, and dedicated James River Park System staff members for two days of cleanups and trail work. Registration is not mandatory—just show up and join a ragtag army of punks, conservationists, families, fans, and anyone else with a strong back and an appreciation for the Mighty James. In previous years, Barry’s efforts inspired fans to collect enough trash to fill a city dump truck. This year, those numbers are expected to climb.
In true Tim Barry fashion, there’s no pretense to the upcoming events. No glossy promises or rewards of recognition, just a request to help the city we love. For those who truly know Richmond and have watched Barry’s work evolve, know this isn’t just about picking up litter. Barry’s life philosophy, etched into every lyric, is seeping into this call to arms. This is no sanitized charity drive; it’s his gospel—work done not for glory, but for something real, something that matters. And it might just change your perspective on this place we’re all lucky enough to call home.
Event Details:
Trail Work / November 23, 2024, 10 am / More details here
River Cleanup / November 24, 2024, 11 am / More details here
Meet at W. 22nd Street parking lot of the James River Park System (W. 22nd and Riverside Drive)
Hike Hopped Seltzer will be on hand providing cold beverages.
And if you’re able to support in other ways, Barry is also collecting food for Feed More, Richmond’s local food bank, and a diaper drive for Little Hands, which will distribute donations to families in need. All Nov. Fest shows will serve as a collection spot.
Feature photo by TIM BARRY / Poster design by Bizhan Khodabandeh