Living in Short Pump

Short Pump, VA – Located in Richmond’s lively Scott’s Addition neighborhood, Vasen Brewing Company has become a beloved gathering spot for board game enthusiasts every Wednesday evening. The brewery’s weekly Table Top Game Night has quickly evolved into a cherished tradition for locals seeking a blend of craft beer and competitive fun. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or simply curious about the board game scene, this weekly event offers a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels and interests.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Vasen’s Table Top Game Night—from basic logistics to insider tips that will enhance your experience. As community events continue to flourish throughout Richmond, this weekly gathering stands out as an example of how shared interests can bring neighbors together in meaningful ways.

Event Overview and Details

Vasen Brewing Company’s Table Top Game Night has become a midweek staple for Richmond’s gaming community, offering a relaxed environment where strategy, luck, and laughter converge. Every Wednesday, the brewery transforms into a space for board game enthusiasts of all experience levels. The casual atmosphere makes it perfect for both dedicated gamers looking to try new titles and beginners just discovering the joy of tabletop gaming. With communal tables and ample space, participants can easily spread out their game boards while enjoying Vasen’s unique craft beverages.

What makes this gathering particularly special is its community-driven nature. Unlike structured tournaments or overly organized events, Vasen’s game night encourages spontaneous interactions and new friendships formed over shared gaming experiences. Regular attendees often comment on how the event has helped them connect with like-minded individuals they might never have met otherwise, creating a lively micro-community within Richmond’s larger social landscape.

Mark your calendars for this weekly occurrence happening every Wednesday from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Vasen Brewing Company. Located at 3331 West Moore Street in Richmond’s popular Scott’s Addition neighborhood, the event’s convenient timing makes it perfect for both after-work relaxation and evening entertainment. One of the most appealing aspects of Table Top Game Night is that admission is completely free. There’s no cover charge or participation fee, making it an accessible option for budget-conscious fun-seekers.

The four-hour timeframe offers flexibility for participants with varying schedules. Early arrivals can secure prime table space and get first pick of games, while those coming straight from work can still enjoy several hours of gameplay. The 9:00 PM conclusion strikes the perfect balance, ending early enough for those with morning commitments while still providing a substantial evening of entertainment. Many regulars have established routines around the event, making it a cornerstone of their weekly social calendar.

The beauty of Vasen’s Table Top Game Night lies in its flexibility and options for participation. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own favorite games from home, providing an opportunity to introduce others to beloved titles and expand the community’s gaming repertoire. For those traveling light or making spontaneous decisions to join, there’s always the option to join existing games where other players are often eager to teach rules and welcome newcomers to their tables.

If you arrive without games and don’t see anything that catches your interest, Vasen has thoughtfully curated a selection of popular board games available to borrow from behind the bar. This house collection includes everything from quick-play party games to more strategic offerings, ensuring no one is left without something engaging to play. The staff can also make recommendations based on group size and experience level, helping to match players with games that will maximize their enjoyment.

Experience and Planning Information

Vasen Brewing Company has established itself as one of Richmond’s most distinctive craft breweries since opening its doors in Scott’s Addition. The spacious taproom features soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and a minimalist Scandinavian-inspired aesthetic that creates a comfortable yet energizing atmosphere. Their brewing philosophy focuses on Belgian-inspired ales and innovative creations, often incorporating unique ingredients and techniques. During game night, players can choose from approximately 12-16 rotating taps featuring everything from refreshing lagers and hoppy IPAs to complex sours and robust stouts.

The brewery’s commitment to quality extends beyond their beer to the overall customer experience. Friendly and knowledgeable staff members are happy to offer recommendations based on your preferences, and flight options allow you to sample multiple offerings while engaging in gameplay. Non-alcoholic options are also available, including craft sodas and sparkling water, ensuring everyone can participate regardless of drinking preferences. The combination of excellent beverages and thoughtfully designed space makes Vasen an ideal backdrop for the social interaction that tabletop gaming naturally encourages.

For first-time attendees, a bit of advance planning can enhance your Table Top Game Night experience. Parking in Scott’s Addition can be challenging during peak hours, so consider arriving early or exploring street parking options on surrounding blocks. If you’re bringing games, focus on titles that play well in a lively environment and don’t require excessive table space or extended play times—games that run 30-90 minutes tend to work best. Popular choices include Catan, Ticket to Ride, Codenames, and Wingspan, though the community welcomes all types of games.

While Vasen doesn’t operate its own kitchen, the brewery typically hosts a rotating selection of food trucks outside the taproom, offering convenient dinner options that pair well with both gaming and beer. Alternatively, many regulars take advantage of the brewery’s BYOF (bring your own food) policy, ordering delivery from nearby restaurants or bringing snacks to share. Checking Vasen’s social media accounts before attending can provide information about which food truck will be on-site that evening, allowing you to plan accordingly. First-timers should also consider bringing a friend or two, as having familiar faces can make it easier to integrate into the existing community.

Perhaps the most valuable aspect of Vasen’s Table Top Game Night is the sense of community it fosters. Regular attendees span diverse age ranges, professional backgrounds, and gaming experience levels, creating a uniquely inclusive social environment. Many participants report forming meaningful friendships that extend beyond Wednesday evenings, organizing additional game sessions or exploring other Richmond activities together. The shared experience of strategic thinking and friendly competition naturally breaks down social barriers, making it easier to connect with new people.

The community aspects extend to the gaming experience itself, with knowledge-sharing being a cornerstone of the event. Experienced players often take pleasure in teaching games to newcomers, while everyone benefits from exposure to titles they might not otherwise encounter. This collaborative atmosphere has even inspired some attendees to develop their own game prototypes, using the weekly gathering as an informal playtesting ground. For Richmond residents seeking meaningful social connections, Vasen’s Table Top Game Night offers a ready-made community united by a shared passion for games and good company.