My trip is booked and tickets purchased for one of the exciting events of the year – at least for Poe lovers. Every year the Poe Museum in Richmond throws a huge party for the poet's birthday. People come from all over to attend. In the beginning, staff and volunteers hosted the party for 24 hours. Let that sink in for a second. The curator told me they would bring mattresses or bedding and sleep on the floor in some of the buildings awaiting visitors. But, in the wee hours no one was visiting so they changed to a 12 hour format. I made it 6 1/2 hours on my first try, however, I flew in for the day and night and didn't arrive in the city in enough time to stay the full length of the event. This year I am working with a strategy, including a trolley tour of the city being offered, to stay longer. We'll see how far I get!
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Poe's 211th Birthday Bash
January 18, 2020 @ 12:00PM — January 19, 2020 @ 12:00AM
Party for Poe with the Poe Museum in Richmond, Virginia! Our annual Birthday Bash is the largest birthday celebration in the world for Edgar Allan Poe, who was born on January 19, 1809. Our event will feature live music, tours, living history, theatrical presentations, readings, and much more!
Photo Credit: Jennifer Graham
The year I went they announced events via various staff, but this year they will have their first emcees. Introducing local personality Harry Kollatz, Jr. Kollatz is a novelist, historian, and Richmond's most trusted chicken-themed weather reporter and Alex Zavistovich of the National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre
Performances are held in the Enchanted Garden. There you'll find ivy that borders the walk ways. Ivy taken from Eliza Poe's grave. Eliza being his mother. A shrine of him sits in the back of the garden. Seven years ago a remarkable thing occurred. Kittens were found one day by the shrine – I believe behind it. Black cats to be exact! Now, two of the litter live on the grounds and in the museum. Edgar and Pluto who I'd dearly love to meet. You couldn't when I was there because you can imagine the anxiety they feel at the large crowd at the birthday bash. So, sadly, I missed them. One day I'll visit when it's quieter.
“The writer of this article is the owner of one of the most remarkable black cats in the world — and this is saying much.” Edgar Allan Poe
Performances this year include a book talk from renowned author John Wasowicz. If you like a literary thriller, this may be what you'd like to hear.
Despite the fact I've heard and watched the Tell-Tale Heart acted out numerous times (and enjoyed them all), I am looking forward to this upcoming feature:
Prepare for a truly magical viewing of Michael Carbonaro's video performance of the “Tell-Tale Heart!” Michael Carbonaro is a famous magician and actor, who has been featured on the Tonight Show, 30 Rock, Netflix, and more! His own show “The Carbonaro Effect” has been running since 2014.
– Poe Museum
I'll be flying to Richmond and staying in a very old inn which sits on a cobble stoned street and I cannot wait. There will be things I know by heart about Poe yet new information will surely be had at this wonderful event. Others will travel to the bash, but if you live in Richmond, it might be a party you don't want to miss.
