Richmond celebrates 804 Day as the 686 era begins

Catch up quick: The State Corporation Commission, which oversees telecommunications in the state, announced in 2022 that 804 was running out of numbers. It created 686 to take over once it did.

• The SCC initially expected 804 to be exhausted by mid-2024, then pushed the date to early 2025.
• This time last year, it still hadn't happened. But no longer.

Zoom in: It's unclear exactly when the first 686 area code was activated.

• The North American Numbering Plan Administrator (NANPA) considers that confidential info, SCC spokesperson Greg Weatherford tells Axios.
• But an Axios review of NANPA records found more than two dozen 686 prefixes have been assigned to a provider — like AT&T and Verizon Wireless — and 22 are "in service."
• Axios cold-called some of those numbers and confirmed they're live.

Yes, but: Richmond will always be an 804 town — something locals celebrate every Aug. 4.

• And while the official 804 Day party was Saturday, there are still ways to get in on the fun:

⚾️ The Flying Squirrels are throwing an 804 Day Block Party (5-7pm) outside of CarMax Park with games, face painting, live music and more.

• Then the team hits the field for their game against the Reading Fightin Phils — featuring the team's first-ever drone show. Tickets start at $12.

💒 Lucky in Love, a Vegas-style wedding chapel, is offering ceremonies on 804 Day — for $80.40.

🏃🏻‍♀️ Run Richmond 16.19 is discounting registration by 10% for its September run through local Black-history landmarks.

🕯️ And the city is celebrating with National Night Out.

Worth noting: Most local businesses post their 804 Day specials and promos on Aug. 4, so keep your eyes peeled for deals on Instagram.

The bottom line: It might be 686's turn, but Richmond's heart and soul will always be 804.