Free events in Norfolk, VA

At Portsmouth Children’s Museum in Portsmouth, a Coast Guard Day celebration pairs with a relaxed show and shine welcoming customs and classics, including imports and domestics. Vehicle entry is free, and each entered car receives one lunch voucher, with additional food available for purchase. The showcase is not judged and there are no formal awards, though crowd favorites may receive gift cards and there may be prizes for top cars. Entertainment includes a free concert by the Deloreans. The event expands its footprint this year and offers activities for both kids and adults. Sponsors, advertising, and vendors are not permitted.

The Legal Aid Society of Eastern Virginia offers free legal guidance on issues such as public housing, divorce, child support, unemployment benefits, SSDI or SSI benefits, and eviction. Sign-up is required at the library, and slots are given in the order people register. For more information, call 757-393-8501.

The Ghent Farmers Market enters its sixth season with a mix of familiar faces and new vendors, uniting local farmers, bakers, growers, and makers. Each market features live music and a rotating food truck, creating a friendly gathering spot in Ghent where neighbors connect, families spend time together, and small businesses thrive. For this market date, look for Wengs Kitchen and live music by Matt Hollowman. Purchases directly support local agriculture and independent businesses, helping sustain a community-built market.

At Attucks Theatre, enjoy a piping and drumming recital showcasing members of Tidewater Pipes & Drums alongside guest artists Cameron MacDougall and Hannah Skinner. Supported by a grant from Norfolk Arts, this event is free and open to the public.

Start the morning with a guided birding walk that offers access to Hoffler Creek before regular hours. Led by experienced local birders, participants will explore Lake Ballard and surrounding areas with many chances to spot and listen for a variety of local species. The outing is free and welcomes all experience levels, from first timers to seasoned observers. Binoculars are recommended.

This monthly clothes closet provides free clothing and is open to everyone.

Enjoy a weekend of regional creativity as the gallery comes alive with live demonstrations. This free series features a rotating lineup of artists throughout the summer, including Laurie Call of Salty Sea Co, Sue Hill of S Hill Creations Studio, Erin McCarty of Better than Your Bandana, and Allison Termine of All Mine Jewelry.

Families and students can gear up for school with a free supplies giveaway at The Great Awakening United Church of Christ. Backpacks, notebooks, pencils, and folders will be available at no cost, underscoring community support for education. The event also offers opportunities to connect with local organizations and celebrate the start of a new school year. Registration is required.

In honor of Happiness Happens Day, the OV Sea Hags lead a Unity Witch Walk from Norfolk to Portsmouth to share kindness, build connection, and spark happiness. The procession starts at the Pagoda, passes through Town Point Park and Waterside, crosses the Elizabeth River by ferry, and continues along High Street to the Bier Garden. Look for dancing witches, friendly waves, and photo worthy moments along the waterfront as the group continues its mission of spreading joy throughout Coastal Virginia.

Virginia Children's Chorus is holding auditions for new students to begin singing in the fall. Students in kindergarten through 12th grade are welcome, from first-time singers to experienced high school vocalists. The program offers weekly rehearsals, and ensembles at every level perform during the school year. Auditions are free, tuition is affordable, and scholarships are available. Rehearsals for all ages take place in Norfolk, and there is a Training Choir option for grades K-4 in Virginia Beach. Auditions are by appointment.

Test your knowledge at the weekly pub quiz at Grace O'Malley's. There is no charge to participate, and prizes are awarded to the top three finishers. You can reserve a table, and the quiz happens on Mondays with plenty of fun and friendly competition.

Main Library hosts a storytime featuring reading, songs, dancing, and a craft. It is intended for children ages 0 to 5. For more information, or if you plan to bring a group larger than eight children, call 757-393-8501.

Settle in for a free kids’ movie at Churchland Branch Library. Screenings are held on the second Tuesday of each month. For more information, call 757-686-2538.

Open interviews will be available for positions across the company. This hiring event welcomes job seekers from all backgrounds and experience levels, including entry-level candidates, seasoned professionals, and those exploring a career change. For questions, call 757-982-2775.

A weekly summer beach meetup at Community Beach Park offers a relaxed time in the sand. Attendees can bring a beach chair and a favorite beverage for a laid back gathering by the water. If rain moves in, participants meet in the beach parking lot and then go out to eat.

Enjoy Zoo Tales, a weekly story-time program featuring two new stories plus an animal encounter with a zoo animal ambassador. Each session ties into a monthly theme. Location for the day’s program is posted at the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza, and Zoo Tales is free with general admission.