Events in Norfolk today

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.

Experience a full day of dance, elegance, and celebration in Norfolk, Virginia as the Fantasy Ball Dancesport Competition transforms a single ballroom into a lively showcase. The day brings thrilling dancesport rounds alongside social dancing in an elegant gala setting, filling the room with energy and memorable moments. A special evening highlight features a professional performance by American Smooth dancers Yehor Khrapal and Alina Semenenko. Whether taking the floor or cheering from the seats, participants and spectators can share in the magic of ballroom throughout this one day event.

Back for its sixth year, the Breastfeeding Bash returns once again at this time of year.

Rain or shine, enjoy a gentle yoga flow at the Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center. When the weather cooperates, practice takes place in the peaceful courtyard. If rain or a special event arises, the class shifts indoors to the social hall at Trinity Episcopal Church across the street, and market volunteers can help with directions. Wear layers, bring water and a mat or towel, and feel free to use props such as blankets, blocks, and straps. The class is donation based, welcoming to all levels, and led by Kristy (Instagram: @drishtikristy). At least 25 percent of donations support a local charity that is announced during class. Contributions are accepted in cash or via CashApp at $drishtikristy, Venmo at @drishtikristy, Zelle at drishtikristy@gmail.com, and PayPal at @drishtikristy. After class, explore the onsite farmers market with dozens of vendors offering beverages, breakfast options, fresh produce and other groceries, flowers, gifts, and art, along with live music and views of historic Olde Towne Portsmouth. Street parking and bike racks are available. Please attend only if you are symptom free.

Create a unique illuminated bud vase in an interactive workshop that teaches the fundamentals of arranging real dried flowers and greenery. Choose from a selection of vase shapes and sizes to craft a custom piece. All supplies are provided, and no prior experience is required. Capacity is limited, so reservations are necessary.

Children can decorate a pair of 7-inch ceramic plates to take along on summer picnics at Norfolk Botanical Garden. The activity is recommended for ages 4 and up and benefits from a chaperone’s help. Every adult and child who attends must have a registered ticket. Members pay $14 per child, and adult members may attend at no cost when accompanying a registered child. Not-yet members pay $22 per child and $20 per adult, and tickets are required for both children and adults. Tickets for not-yet members include daytime admission to the garden. All participants ages 3 and older need a registered ticket to take part, and any child under 3 who will participate must have a registered child ticket.

This community jamboree at Blue Ribbon Results Academy celebrates the start of the school year with a focus on students and the excitement of learning. Registered students can receive free backpacks and school supplies. Music, food, and live entertainment set the tone, and local businesses and community resource providers will be on hand. The environment is fun and high energy with an emphasis on celebrating education. Pre-registration is required to ensure a backpack and supplies, as quantities are limited.

Norfolk Public Schools and the City of Norfolk are partnering with community organizations to present Unity in the Community: Back 2 School Celebration at Norfolk Scope. The event welcomes Norfolk elementary, middle, and high school students and their families and features backpack and school supply distribution along with community resources and other offerings to support the start of a new school year. Registration is available.

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.

This class focuses on Kundalini yoga, a practice that blends chanting, singing, breathwork, and postures with the aim of awakening Kundalini energy, also called Shakti, traditionally described as residing at the base of the spine. Often described as a practice of heightened awareness, it brings together sound, breath, and movement. Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The instructor will meet participants at the entrance on the side facing 1st View, and the doors will lock two minutes before class begins. Advance registration is required.

Enjoy a family-friendly big-screen screening of Lilo & Stitch at Nauticus as part of the Little Mariners Movie Series. Access to the film is included with Nauticus admission, and Nauticus members attend at no additional cost. While there, explore Nauticus and tour the Battleship Wisconsin for an added dose of adventure.

Explore the ice tie dye technique and create a custom bandana or pillowcase, with materials prepared and provided. Those who prefer to dye a T-shirt can bring one in any size. Finished pieces go home in a plastic bag along with clear instructions for the next steps. Recommended for ages 8 and older. Cost is $5 for members or a $15 add-on for non-members, and a Nauticus general admission ticket is required.

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.

Take a break and enjoy a monthly canvas painting class for adults. To reserve a seat, email banksl@portsmouthva.gov by the Tuesday before each session.

Slip into your favorite sundress and head to Granby Street for Sundresses and Tequila, an in-person summer day event focused on good vibes, great company, and tequila. It is a hangout where you can sip, dance, and chill with friends for a few hours of fun in Norfolk.

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.

The backyard concert series returns with live performances on Friday and Saturday evenings. Each event showcases a different local artist, weather permitting. The music happens out back as part of a continuing series that highlights local talent.

Enjoy a classy Black & White Formal celebration with a cocktail social hour, dinner, a special guest address, and dancing and entertainment. The program includes remarks by Robert L. Jenkins, Jr., Esq., and the evening supports the Hampton-Newport News Alumni Chapter’s community outreach efforts through the Guide Right program and other educational and cultural initiatives. Black-tie formal attire is required.

Barry Manilow takes the stage at Chartway Arena for a memorable evening of classics, including Mandy, Copacabana, and more.

A five dollar, at-the-door live music night featuring performances by Max Redding & the Dogwood Gospel, Tornado Bait, and Lori Creek & the Dapper Damned. With a nod to Elvis Week and a take care of business spirit, this affordable show keeps the spotlight on the music and an easygoing vibe.

At the Wells Theatre, the stage becomes the setting for a rare, close-up jazz experience, with audiences seated among the performers for a performance that feels personal and immediate. For a single evening, acclaimed artists John Toomey and Justin Kauflin appear just a few feet away, turning the venue into an intimate listening room. Toomey, a cornerstone of the Hampton Roads jazz community, brings decades as a performer, composer, and educator, recognition as a University Professor for Excellence in Teaching at Old Dominion University, longtime leadership in the Virginia Arts Festival’s Attucks Jazz Series, international touring, and collaborations with Randy Brecker and Maynard Ferguson. Kauflin, an internationally celebrated pianist and composer mentored by Clark Terry, is noted for an expressive touch that blends post-bop and gospel influences, collaborations with Quincy Jones, performances around the world, and acknowledgment from The New York Times, DownBeat, and The New Yorker. After losing his sight at age 11, he has continued to shape a career grounded in artistry, mentorship, advocacy, and innovation. Together they craft a program that pairs technical command with humanity. Seating is on the stage and extremely limited.

Joe and Stokley bring an R&B concert to Portsmouth Pavilion. Both artists appear on the same stage for a night devoted to the genre.

Guests can dress to impress in stylish, comfortable sneakers for an upscale yet playful celebration at Music Theory Studios. This BYOB gathering features buffet-style hors d'oeuvres and lively music that keeps the dance floor moving. It is a chance to enjoy time with friends, create memories, and soak in an atmosphere filled with laughter, style, and good energy. The evening blends refined elegance with the creativity of sneaker culture.

Candlelight brings an evening of 90s hip-hop reimagined for strings to St. John's Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach, with the Listeso String Quartet performing by candlelight for an immersive live music experience. Hear medleys that honor Fugees and Lauryn Hill with Ready or Not, Doo-Wop, Fu-Gee-La, and Killing Me Softly, alongside tributes to Jay-Z, Nas, Outkast, Missy 'Misdemeanor' Elliott, A Tribe Called Quest, Wu-Tang Clan, 2Pac, and The Notorious B.I.G. Selections from Dr. Dre such as Still D.R.E., Forgot About Dre, and Nuthin' but a 'G' Thang are featured as well, and Snoop Dogg's Gin and Juice caps the program. The performance lasts 60 minutes. Doors open 45 minutes before the music begins and late entry is not permitted once the show starts. Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis within each zone. The venue is ADA compliant. Guests must be at least 8 years old, and anyone under 16 must attend with an adult.

TT&M Community Services LLC presents a Portsmouth Back to School Bash at Portside, bringing together families, community resources, school supplies, food, and entertainment to help students begin the new school year with confidence. Local businesses and organizations can showcase their work, connect with Portsmouth families, and share products and services in support of the community. The organizers are welcoming vendors, community resource partners, event sponsors, and school supply donations. Vendor and sponsorship details are available on the event flyer.

Join a DMV driver improvement course for the Norfolk, VA Beach, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake area at Wyndham Garden Inn. The session runs in the hotel’s conference rooms, and you’ll receive your Certificate of Completion the same day. Bring a photo ID, and payment is $68 cash or money order only. If you’re DMV ordered, VA DMV will be notified electronically the same day.

Set within the serene Pagoda & Oriental Garden, this market celebrates intentional living and meaningful community connection. Local makers, artists, and small businesses come together amid water and lush greenery, creating an easygoing setting for unhurried exploration. Visitors can browse handcrafted goods, plants, wellness and self-care offerings, vintage and unique finds, and enjoy food and drinks. The experience encourages time to wander, discover, and meet the people behind each piece, all within a warm, community focused atmosphere.

At Atlantis Games & Comics - Portsmouth, this relaxed LEGO meetup invites fans to launch a fresh build, advance a work in progress, or simply connect with other enthusiasts. Featuring HardLUG, a Hampton Roads LEGO User Group, it provides a welcoming spot to share ideas and enjoy creative time together.

Ease into the week with Jazz in the Park, a laid-back afternoon of live jazz in a scenic outdoor setting. Attendees may bring a grill, charcoal, lighter fluid, and trash bags, then enjoy cooking and sharing food with family and friends while the music flows. Expect smooth sounds, good eats, and warm fellowship that leave everyone refreshed and ready for the work week, with memories to carry into the days ahead and a sense of peace and joy.

Children’s Harbor Olde Towne presents a seafaring summer camp where kids chart a course for adventure through ocean discovery and playful pirate quests. Weekly themes are designed to spark curiosity, nurture creativity, and build confidence in a caring, engaging setting. Themes range from All Hands on Deck to welcome the crew and Pirates of the Caribbean with a treasure quest to Ocean Conservation, Safe Harbors, Shark Week, Marine Biologist in Training, Sailing the Seven Seas, a Coastal Carnival beach celebration, Deep Sea Explorers, Coast Guard in Training, and a Captain’s Farewell. Campers take part in hands-on activities and imaginative play, all within a structured, supportive environment that encourages social growth and teamwork.

Enjoy quiet, companionable reading time with a group that values focus and calm. This gathering is designed for voluntary, silent participation, offering a low-pressure and stress-free way to spend time with a book. Please bring water, a blanket or chair for comfortable seating, and something to read. Consider dressing in layers and packing sunscreen, sunglasses, or any other items that support a peaceful reading experience. Arriving by foot, rollerblades, skates, or bicycle is encouraged. Stockley Gardens connects to the Sentara Loop segment of the Elizabeth River Trail, which makes non-car access straightforward. If you choose to drive, street parking is available in the nearby residential area. Pay attention to residential permit requirements and follow all posted signs. The most direct parking can be found along the median on Stockley Gardens next to the park.

Children’s Harbor Ghent offers a nautical-themed summer experience where Anchors Aweigh brings the wonders of the ocean to life through weekly discovery. Children engage in hands-on projects and creative learning in a safe, structured setting that fosters confidence, curiosity, and teamwork. Each week introduces a fresh focus, beginning with welcoming new crew members and pirate treasure adventures, then moving into ocean care and safe harbor concepts. Additional highlights include shark exploration, beginner marine biology, voyages across the seven seas, a beach carnival atmosphere, deep sea discovery, an introduction to Coast Guard skills, and a captain’s farewell to close the program. Families can expect engaging themes, interactive learning, and meaningful social growth throughout the summer. Enrollment is open and space may be limited. For registration information, call (757) 622-0900.

Create a new table runner by folding fabric and stitching it onto a foundation base. This project uses a simple fold and sew approach to build the design on a base, resulting in a finished piece for your table.

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.

Mikey leads music bingo at Afterglow on Mondays. Sing along to favorite hits as you mark your bingo board and play for a chance to win prizes.

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.

Improv 301 at Push Comedy Theater advances the training from earlier levels by deepening scene work and introducing the foundations of The Harold, the long-form structure pioneered by Del Close. Participants learn to spot the game of a scene and heighten it to create effective second beats. This six-week course culminates in a graduation performance on the Push Comedy Theater stage. Tuition is $235.

A summer preview series offers a behind the curtain look at the path to becoming a professional music artist in Hampton Roads, featuring a local vocal ensemble. This program pairs classic songs from the 1950s, 60s, and 70s with a story about two couples finding love as they come of age through the 1960s. Space is limited and an RSVP is requested. Doors open 15 minutes before the performance. Presented in part by First Lutheran Church of Norfolk.

WWE Monday Night RAW returns to Norfolk Scope with a lineup featuring CM Punk, Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, The Usos, Intercontinental Champion Penta, Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, World Tag Team Champions The Vision, Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch, Oba Femi, Jacob Fatu, and Je’Von Evans. For ticket protection, SevenVenues recognizes only authorized outlets, including Ticketmaster and the Scope Arena box office. Buying from third parties is not guaranteed and can limit access to the latest event updates or assistance, and counterfeit, duplicate, or invalid tickets will not be accepted or refunded.

A WWE edition of RAW takes place at Scope Arena, offering an in-person arena experience for fans of the show.

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.

Join Zoo Tales for a weekly story-time featuring two new stories and an animal encounter with a zoo animal ambassador. Each visit ties into a monthly theme, and the location is set up in the Zoo’s Fountain Plaza. This program is free with general admission.

An enchanting concert at Chartway Arena in Norfolk celebrates the magical music of beloved films and musicals. Enjoy songs from Frozen, Wicked, Moana, KPOP Demon Hunters, Taylor Swift, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Anastasia, Pocahontas and more. West End performers deliver breathtaking vocals alongside aerial artistry and energetic dance, shaping a theatrical experience filled with uplifting, inspiring messages. Presented during summer recess, this family-friendly event is suitable for all ages.

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.

Consider the objects that tell your story in a creative workshop on the 5th Floor Main, Downtown Branch at Slover. Participants will craft a Life Board, a vision board that captures personal milestones and aspirations. The session invites thoughtful self reflection and introspection, supports goal setting, and offers a way to honor and record family history. Expect a hands-on experience that turns meaningful items and memories into a cohesive visual narrative.

This group ride covers approximately 30 miles on the Classic Shop Airport Loop and offers two pace options so riders can choose what suits them best. B pace rolls at 18 to 20 mph, while A pace is 20 mph or faster. The route includes two sprint sections, with the B group regrouping after the sprints. It is not a drop ride, and participants should be ready to maintain the posted speeds.

A weekly beginner-friendly Latin dance class offers a relaxed way to start with salsa and bachata. Each session splits time between both styles and introduces fresh material on a rotating basis, making it a fit for casual drop-ins as well as those eager to learn consistently. No partner or prior experience is required. Bring a water bottle and wear shoes with non-sticky soles for comfortable movement. The class costs no more than $20, with student and military discounts available with ID and package discounts offered.

COVA presents a weekly trivia night, with Beach Trivia as the host. It happens every Tuesday, and the second Tuesday of each month brings a themed edition. No sign up is required, and participation is drop in.

Edward Brash brings a week of live acoustic sets to Grace O'Malley's Irish Pub & Restaurant. Known from the local band Glasgow Kiss, he showcases both contemporary and traditional Celtic music across multiple evenings, carrying the run from midweek into the weekend.

Take a DMV-approved driving improvement course for the Norfolk, VA Beach, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake area at Wyndham Garden Inn. The class takes place in the hotel’s conference rooms, and you’ll receive your Certificate of Completion the same day. Plan to bring a photo ID and pay the $68 fee by cash or money order only. If you were DMV ordered, the VA DMV will be notified electronically the same day.

Open interviews are available for a variety of company-wide positions. Job seekers of any background or experience level are welcome, including entry-level applicants, experienced professionals, and those exploring a career transition. For questions, call 757-273-8710.

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.

Adults can learn crochet or bring a project already in progress to get assistance and socialize with fellow crafters. For more information, call 757-465-2916.

At Churchland, participants can play the card game they enjoy most. For more information, call 757-686-2538.

This monthly gathering at Churchland Library takes place on the second Wednesday. Participants can bring a current project or learn to knit from the beginning, and beginners are welcome. Adults may attend without registering, while ages 10 to 17 must register. Extra help is available by booking an appointment with Pamela for up to two hours. For questions or to schedule assistance, call 757-686-2538, ext. 6624.

Wellness Wednesdays is a weekly community gathering at Locals Marketplace that centers on well-being, connection, and supporting local businesses. Organized by Curators Key Events in collaboration with VA Neighborhoods and Oasis Performance, it creates space to slow down, recharge, discover local favorites, and enjoy a welcoming environment grounded in positive living. Expect wellness-focused vendors, handmade goods, self-care products, healthy living brands, specialty foods, and offerings from local makers in an uplifting setting. Vendors are currently being sought, including wellness and self-care brands, artisan and handmade products, healthy foods and specialty beverages, plant and natural goods, fitness, holistic and wellness services, boutique items, jewelry and accessories, and artists and positive lifestyle brands. Indoor spaces measure 6 by 4, and outdoor spaces are 10 by 10. Outdoor participants must provide a tent with weights.

A cruise-in at Doumar's Cones and Barbecue welcomes all makes and models, hosted by the Mustang and Ford Association of Virginia.

An immersive program created specifically for adult ballet dancers, taught by Ballet Virginia faculty in Norfolk. Each day blends dancer conditioning and technique training with opportunities to learn classical repertoire and explore additional dance styles in a welcoming, encouraging environment. The schedule is planned with busy adults in mind. For more information, call 757-446-1401.

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.

Hank’s Filling Station turns its backyard into a friendly battleground for trivia, where teams of savvy players and confident guessers face off across a mix of topics. Expect smoky barbecue, bourbon and other cold drinks, and a chance to snag prizes while you compete and share plenty of laughs outdoors after dark. Themed nights rotate through favorites like patriotic pop culture and history, canine facts and famous pups, schoolroom stumpers, and true crime mysteries. Aim for first place or simply enjoy the atmosphere with friends, because every game offers another shot at fun in the backyard.

Catch the Gwinnett Stripers live at Harbor Park Stadium for a Norfolk Tides game night. Tickets are available through AXS Marketplace resale, and all sales are final with no refunds for postponed events.

Presented by LAVA, this all-ages show at Chicho's Backstage features performances by Foreign Hand, Church Tongue, and False Cape.

Loe Shimmy is performing at The NorVa in Norfolk. Doors open at 7:00 PM, with the show starting at 8:00 PM.

Mrs. Fay leads a story time filled with read-alouds, simple crafts, and songs. For more information, call 757-393-8759. If attending with a group of more than eight children, please call ahead.

Manor Branch Library hosts a playful story time for little ones, featuring stories, songs, movement, and a simple craft. This program is designed for children from birth to age five. For details, or if bringing a group of more than eight children, call 757-465-2916.

A messy play session for babies ages 0 to 2 years. For more information, call 757-393-8501.

This baby-centered story time features short stories, songs, gentle bounces, and playtime. It is designed for ages 0 to 18 months and takes place on the second and fourth Thursday of each month. For more information, call 757-393-8501.

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.

At the Main Library, the English Conversation Club provides a space to practice English through conversation, reading, writing, and listening. People of any age can take part. For more information, call 757-393-8501. El Club de Conversación en Inglés tiene lugar en Main Library, con práctica de conversación, lectura, escritura y comprensión auditiva en inglés. Pueden participar personas de cualquier edad. Para más información, llama al 757-393-8501.

This welcoming group ride is suitable for both new cyclists and experienced riders. Expect roughly 23 miles at a C pace of about 15 to 17 mph, with a focus on learning and practicing group-riding skills. It follows a no-drop format, and the group will regroup as needed so no one is left behind.

The lobby of the Renaissance Portsmouth- Norfolk Waterfront Hotel hosts live music from Pancho, delivering familiar hits that keep the energy high. Whether you are there to stay or simply unwind, the setting offers a comfortable place to relax while the performance brings a festive, party feel.

Enjoy an evening of trivia at The Bunker. Create a team of up to six players and put your knowledge to the test. Prizes go to the top two teams. If the weather is nice, the competition takes place outdoors.