Here in the heart of Virginia, the airier, brighter days have brought on lingering sunsets. In other words, it’s the perfect time of year for a spring getaway! Enter a world where the charm of yesteryear’s beach resorts meets modern luxury and relaxation. This year, we’re rolling out the red carpet for our “Aqualuxe” Experience Giveaway, inspired by the sun-soaked elegance of the South of France, the vibrant allure of Palm Beach and the timeless chic of Palm Springs. Here’s your chance to experience the best of Farmville in a way that’s as unique and vibrant as the destinations that inspired this year’s theme for the grand Longwood Center for the Visual Arts (LCVA) Gala.
Enter our “Aqualuxe” Experience Giveaway for your chance to escape into gala glamor while immersing yourself in fashion, comfort and local flavors! Our lucky winner will enjoy an overnight stay package on Saturday, April 13 — plus two tickets to the gala, lunch and brunch for two, gift cards to our Main Street boutiques, and lots of other donated goodies from our local small businesses!
The contest will open March 21 and run through April 4, and we’ll choose a winner on April 5, 2024. Keep reading to discover how you can secure your spot in this one-of-a-kind Farmville getaway!
Giveaway Closed
Check in to Comfort│Tru by Hilton
Kick off your escape with a stay at the heart of it all! Perfectly positioned on South Main Street between Longwood University and Hampden-Sydney College, Tru by Hilton offers a free hot breakfast, fast Wi-Fi, a 24/7 fitness center, and a market selling eats, sweets and sips. With huge, eight-foot windows and a plush Serta mattress, your room promises to be a haven for relaxation.
But that’s just the beginning of your adventure in Farmville! We have a special surprise to welcome you — a basket filled with local gift cards and goodies, including two Farmville mugs handmade at our downtown pottery studio, Mainly Clay, and a bag of coffee from Uptown Coffee House & Cafe. With these tokens of our appreciation, you’re all set for a weekend of exploration and elegance. First up on the agenda? A delightful lunch outing awaits. Let’s dive into the Aqualuxe experience!
Dine with Artistry│Shogun Japanese Steakhouse Hibachi & Sushi
Shogun Japanese Steakhouse Hibachi & Sushi, one of Farmville’s hidden gems, lies just across the Appomattox River from downtown and serves up fresh, delicious Japanese fare. Settle into a cozy booth and sip some sake as you peruse the menu. You’ll find artfully crafted sushi rolls, savory hibachi chicken and more.
But there’s more to Shogun than great food. What sets this family-owned restaurant apart is its dedication to the local arts scene. Enjoy beautiful ceramics (many of which are for sale) and specially made soy sauce dishes by — you guessed it! — Mainly Clay. It’s the perfect fusion of culinary and creative worlds in Farmville.
Discover Main Street Chic│Lex on Main and The Blake & Gray Company
Wondering what to wear to tonight’s gala? Think sun-soaked elegance and Slim Aaron’s photography — celebrating high society and leisure. With your gift cards in hand, head downtown to charming Main Street.
First stop? Lex on Main at 231 North Main Street with your $25 gift card. You’ll find chic dresses and fabulous accessories, perfect for tonight’s event. Fun fact: Lex on Main and the LCVA recently showcased local talent in an inclusive runway show, Bringing Fashion Home, which featured 2024 collections from area designers.
Next up? Elevate your gala style! With your $50 gift card, add a touch of boho glam from The Blake & Gray Company at 142 North Main Street.
Glamor and Artistry at Aqualuxe: LCVA Gala
Ready to dazzle? It’s time for the main event. Doll up and head out to Longwood University’s Blackwell Ballroom for an unforgettable night at the LCVA Gala, where “Aqualuxe” brings the lavish beach resorts of the past into the present. Enjoy food, drinks, dancing — and, of course, art! — as your evening unfolds amidst vibrant coastal cabana colors and the glamor of iconic travel destinations like the South of France and Palm Springs.
But the LCVA Gala isn’t just one of the most fun events in Farmville; it’s also a vital lifeline for regional arts, raising money to provide free and full access to events and workshops for all. Annually, LCVA’s gala is sponsored by 95 local institutions and individuals. Since 2005, 86 hours have been danced at the gala.
Experience Downtown│Longwood Center for the Visual Arts
After a leisurely morning enjoying your free, hot breakfast at Tru by Hilton, head out to continue your exploration of our charming downtown. Begin with a treasure hunt at Antiques on North Main. Stop in to see where your new favorite mugs were created at Mainly Clay. At 1 p.m., head to 129 North Main to explore the Longwood Center for Visual Arts and see just what last night’s gala was all about. Explore the exhibits and learn more about this museum, which is committed to making visual arts accessible in our community.
The Iconic End to Your Farmville Exploration│LOVEworks
Last stop? Glamor shot! Visit Farmville’s very own LOVEworks sign right at the intersection of Main Street and the High Bridge Trail. Tag your picture with #VisitFarmville and #LOVEVA to commemorate your getaway weekend.
Ready to dive into the best of Farmville? Now is the time to enter to win April’s “Aqualuxe” Experience Giveaway!