Norfolk’s
Calendar of Exciting Upcoming Events:
Mark your calendars for these exciting events happening in Norfolk, Virginia, throughout the year!
Norfolk Harborfest:
June 3-5, 2022
Norfolk Harborfest is a three-day event that brings together thousands of visitors for live music, delicious food, and unique demonstrations. Don’t miss the largest fireworks display on the East Coast to cap off the weekend!
Norfolk PrideFest:
July 16, 2022
Norfolk PrideFest is a day-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. Enjoy live music, local vendors, and a parade through downtown Norfolk!
Virginia International Tattoo:
August 12-14, 2022
The Virginia International Tattoo is a three-day event featuring military and civilian performances from around the world. Witness the spectacular sights and sounds of this global spectacle!
Norfolk Jazz Festival:
September 10-11, 2022
The Norfolk Jazz Festival is a two-day event that showcases some of the best jazz musicians from around the world. Come for the music, stay for the great food and friendly atmosphere!
Welcome to the dynamic and culturally
rich
city of
Norfolk, Virginia
, a place where history, art, and entertainment come together to create an unforgettable experience. Norfolk is not only a beloved home for its residents but also a sought-after destination for tourists from around the world. With a
vibrant
arts scene, a rich
historical
heritage, and an abundance of
outdoor activities
, Norfolk offers something for everyone. Keeping up with the exciting events happening in this remarkable city is essential, as there’s always something new and captivating to discover.
With that said
, we invite you to mark your calendars for the following
upcoming events
in Norfolk that are sure to leave you with lasting memories.
Norfolk Festivals and Cultural Celebrations
Virginia International Tidewater Art Festival (April)
Every spring, Norfolk comes alive with the Virginia International Tidewater Art Festival, a much-anticipated event that attracts thousands of visitors from around the region. Held annually in April, this three-day festival showcases the works of more than 150 artists from across the country. The picturesque waterside location at Town Point Park provides a beautiful backdrop for this event, where attendees can enjoy an array of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more. The admission fee is reasonably priced at just $5 per day for adults, making it an affordable opportunity to engage with local and international artists. This festival has significantly contributed to Norfolk’s vibrant arts scene, bringing both recognition and economic benefits to the city.
Norfolk Waterfront Festival (June)
Norfolk Waterfront Festival, held every June, is another major cultural event in Norfolk that draws a massive crowd. This three-day celebration offers an eclectic mix of activities, music, and food along the waterfront. The festival features live performances from renowned musicians, a boat parade, arts and crafts vendors, and numerous family-friendly activities. With admission fees ranging from $10 to $30 depending on the day and access level, this event is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Over the years, attendance numbers have steadily grown, reaching over 100,000 people in recent times, making it one of the most popular festivals in Norfolk.
Hampton Roads Pride Festival (June)
Hampton Roads Pride Festival, taking place every June, is a significant event for the LGBTQ+ community in Norfolk and the surrounding areas. Its primary goal is to promote unity, visibility, and acceptance within the community and beyond. The festival features a vibrant lineup of events, including live music performances, a parade, vendors, and educational workshops. Held at Town Point Park, this one-day event is free to attend, making it an accessible and inclusive space for everyone. The Hampton Roads Pride Festival plays a crucial role in fostering a more accepting environment for the LGBTQ+ community, encouraging open dialogues, and providing resources and support.
Norfolk Jazz Festival (August)
Norfolk Jazz Festival, an annual August event, showcases a diverse lineup of jazz performers from around the world. Held at various venues along the Norfolk waterfront, this three-day festival attracts jazz enthusiasts and novices alike. With admission fees ranging from $30 to $75 per day, this event contributes significantly to Norfolk’s music scene by introducing attendees to a rich and diverse array of jazz styles. Over the years, the festival has welcomed renowned artists such as Herbie Hancock, Wynton Marsalis, and McCoy Tyner, making it an essential addition to Norfolk’s cultural calendar.
I Norfolk’s Outdoor Events and Attractions
Norfolk, Virginia offers an array of exciting outdoor events and attractions that cater to both locals and tourists throughout the year. Here are some not-to-miss destinations:
Harborfest (July)
Harborfest, held every July, is a must-visit event in Norfolk. This annual celebration brings history to life with historical reenactments, boat tours, live music, and delicious food. Visitors can witness colonial life through demonstrations of blacksmithing, cooking, and weaponry. Boat tours provide a unique perspective of the harbor and its rich maritime history. Admission fees vary depending on specific activities. For both locals and tourists, Harborfest offers educational and entertaining experiences that create lasting memories.
Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Festival of Lights (November-January)
Festival of Lights, held annually from November through January, is another beloved Norfolk attraction. The garden transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland with over half a million twinkling lights, holiday displays, and live entertainment. Admission fees apply. This event significantly contributes to Norfolk’s economy while also maintaining cherished holiday traditions for the community.
Norfolk Harbor Cruises (Year-round)
Norfolk Harbor Cruises, available year-round, offer a unique perspective of the city. With various types of cruises such as dinner cruises, sunset cruises, and sightseeing tours, there’s something for everyone. Schedules, prices, and booking information can be found on the official website. These cruises are extremely popular among locals and tourists alike for sightseeing and relaxation, providing a memorable experience of Norfolk’s beautiful waterfront.
Educational and Family-Friendly Events
Chrysler Museum of Art’s Family Fun Festival (May)
Description of the event:
Each year, the Chrysler Museum of Art in Norfolk hosts a Family Fun Festival, a free community event filled with artistic activities and workshops for children and families. Held in May, this day-long celebration includes hands-on art projects, live music performances, face painting, storytime sessions, and various interactive displays. Families can collaborate on creating large-scale murals, design their own crafts using various art mediums, or participate in scavenger hunts throughout the museum.
Importance:
The Chrysler Museum of Art’s Family Fun Festival is an essential event for fostering a love for art in children and families. By offering engaging, educational activities, the museum helps introduce young minds to the world of art while providing opportunities for families to bond and create memories together.
Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Butterfly Festival (September)
Description of the event:
The Norfolk Botanical Garden’s annual Butterfly Festival, held in September, is an enchanting and educational experience for both children and adults. During this event, visitors have the opportunity to witness multiple butterfly releases throughout the day, with various species of butterflies taking flight amongst the lush garden surroundings. Additional educational programs, such as guided tours and insect shows, provide visitors with valuable information about these fascinating creatures.
Educational opportunities:
The Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Butterfly Festival offers a unique opportunity for children and adults to learn about the life cycle of butterflies, their habitats, and the importance of pollination. Interactive activities and displays allow visitors to engage with these creatures up close and appreciate their beauty and significance in our ecosystem.
Virginia Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo (October)
Description of the event:
The Virginia Zoo’s annual Boo at the Zoo, held in October, is a fun-filled event for families looking to enjoy a spooktacular fall experience. Dressed in costumes, visitors can participate in various activities throughout the zoo, including trick-or-treat stations, wildlife shows, and craft projects. This family-friendly event offers a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for children to explore their creative side while learning about various animal species.
Family-friendly atmosphere:
The Virginia Zoo’s Boo at the Zoo contributes to Norfolk’s fall season by offering a family-friendly atmosphere where children and parents can make lasting memories together. With a focus on education, costumes, and fun, this event is an excellent way to celebrate the autumn season while encouraging appreciation for nature and wildlife.
Conclusion
As we reach the end of our exploration of Norfolk’s cultural and community offerings, we are excited to share some upcoming events that you won’t want to miss!
Exciting Upcoming Events
Norfolk Jazz Festival: Get ready for a musical extravaganza as the Norfolk Jazz Festival returns to Town Point Park from August 25-27. Enjoy world-class jazz performances, food vendors, and activities for all ages.
Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Butterfly Festival: Experience the magic of butterflies at this annual celebration from September 17-18. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and thousands of beautiful butterflies fluttering around the gardens.
Plan Your Calendars Accordingly
Mark these dates on your calendars and start making plans to join us in Norfolk for these unforgettable events! Our vibrant city has something for everyone – from music and arts lovers to foodies and nature enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore Norfolk’s unique culture and community.
Contact Information
For more information about these events, including ticket prices and volunteering opportunities, please visit:
We look forward to seeing you at these incredible events!
