Governor Abigail Spanberger and Mayor Danny Avula to Welcome Monks in 'Walk for Peace' 

Richmond, VA  — The City of Richmond is proud to invite community members to a Peace Gathering at City Hall welcoming the arrival of Venerable Monks of the Dhammacetiya on their 'Walk for Peace' journey as it passes through the City.

The monks, who began their journey on foot in Forth Worth, Texas more than 3 months ago, will pass through the River City on Monday en route to their destination: Washington, D.C. The 2,300 mile 'Walk for Peace,' led by Venerable Bhikku Pannakara, is an effort to promote national healing, unity, and compassion.

Event Details

When:  Monday, February 2nd, 2026, 3:00pm - 4:00pm

Where: Marshall St. entrance of Richmond City Hall (900 E. Marshall St.)

Who:  Venerable Monks, Governor Abigail Spanberger, Mayor Danny Avula

Residents are encouraged to learn more about the monks' journey on the Dhammacetiya website . The website includes a live map with real time updates on progress and planned routes.

Important Reminders

Accessing City Hall

The Peace Gathering will take place in front of the Marshall St. entrance to City Hall (marked in blue above) Please be aware that parking is limited around City Hall. Additionally, please note the following road closures  (marked in red above):

• 9th Street between Broad St. and Clay St.
• Marshall St. between 8th St. and 10th St.

These roads will be closed to traffic beginning at 1:00 p.m. through the end of the event. 

Please plan accordingly and consider using public transit. Richmond City Hall sits on multiple GRTC bus routes and travel to and from can be planned using GRTC's trip planner .

Come Prepared

The monks are making their way through our region on foot, facing icy conditions and cold weather. While we are anticipating a 3:00 p.m. start time, day-of conditions may impact that schedule.

If you plan to join the peace gathering, please come prepared . Wear appropriate cold weather attire, including hats, gloves, scarves and footwear.

Respect the Journey

All are welcome to join, but are asked to do so with the utmost respect for their journey. Please be mindful of the following:

• Give them space –  Please do not walk alongside the monks; allow them room to focus on their spiritual mission.
• Greet respectfully –  Place your palms together in a prayer position and bow gently when greeting the monks.
• Listen peacefully –  When the monks are speaking, offer your full attention and listen mindfully to their message.
• Support appropriately – Please do not offer gifts directly to the monks. Learn how to support their efforts on their Facebook page: facebook.com/walkforpeaceusa 

The City looks forward to welcoming all to this gathering of peace and compassion.

Media partners interested in covering the monks’ arrival are asked to connect with michael.hinkle@rva.gov before the event.