Virginia USA

National and State Park Experiences in Virginia

2024-05-27T02:58:00.000-07:00

Blue Ridge Parkway | Credit: NPS

Virginia is home to a rich array of national and state parks, each offering unique natural beauty and historical significance. With their diverse landscapes and rich history, these parks preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the region while providing open spaces for recreation.

The Appalachian Trail, for instance, is a renowned 2,190+ mile long public footpath that traverses the scenic landscapes of the Appalachian Mountains, providing hikers with an immersive experience of America's wilderness.

History enthusiasts can visit the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, where the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia marked the end of the Civil War, posing questions about the nation's future and the realization of emancipation.

For those interested in maritime history and coastal ecosystems, Assateague Island National Seashore presents a dynamic environment shaped daily by ocean winds and waves, featuring sandy beaches and salt marshes teeming with wildlife.

Shenandoah National Park is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Virginia. The park is known for its cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas, wildflowers, and quiet woodlands and other habitats.

The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a different pace, with a slow, relaxing drive revealing stunning vistas and close-up views of the rugged mountains and pastoral landscapes of the Appalachian Highlands.

Moreover, the Booker T. Washington National Monument honors the influential African American educator and leader, inviting visitors to explore his birthplace and learn about his life and philosophies.

The Cape Henry Memorial, part of the Colonial National Historical Park, commemorates the first landing of English colonists in 1607, marking the beginning of a new chapter in American history.

Virginia's state parks complement these national treasures, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation, education, and conservation.

First Landing State Park, located at 2500 Shore Dr, Virginia Beach, offers not only a rich historical significance as the first landing place of the Jamestown colonists in 1607 but also provides visitors with over 20 miles of trails and a variety of water activities.

False Cape State Park, accessible only by foot, bicycle, beach transport, or boat, is a serene getaway for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

With over 42 state parks scattered across the state, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping, hiking, boating, and exploring historical sites.

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation manages state parks in the Commonwealth.

Virginia Farmers Markets

2022-04-28T05:16:00.006-07:00

Virginia farmers markets offer fresh produce and other items from early Spring until late Fall. Summer is the busiest season, with fresh fruits and vegetables of every description being available.

A trip to a local farmers market is a great way to stock up on fresh fruits, vegetables, produce, herbs, flowers, garden plants, seafood, meats, cheeses, poultry, breads, jellies, jams, arts and crafts and more.

Virginia farmers are known for producing high quality fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs, other foods.

Virginia farmers have been growing peanuts since the early 1840's. Virginia's peanuts are grown in Southeastern Virginia's sandy soil where the climate is ideal for producing large peanuts. Because of their size, Virginia peanuts have acquired the reputation of being the "Cadillac" of peanuts.

Strawberries are another food produced in Virginia. Each spring, small to mid-sized farms produce abundant crops of fresh, juicy strawberries in April and May.

Tomatoes are a local favorite in Virginia. Most of the crop is grown in summer thru early fall. Small producers and specialty crop farmers produce greenhouse tomatoes nearly all year round.

Virginia is known for its variety of greens. Grown mainly by small specialty farmers, varieties include turnip greens, kale, spinach, collards, and others.

Virginia orchards produce a variety of fresh fruit. Local favorites include peaches, apples, blueberries, and raspberries.

Find Local Food Sources

Tidewater Virginia Farmers Markets

This directory of Tidewater Virginia Farmers Markets lists sources of fruits, vegetables, produce, herbs, flowers, garden plants, seafood, meats, cheeses, poultry, breads, jellies, jams, arts and crafts, and other products.

Local Harvest (localharvest.org)

Visit www.localharvest.org to find farmers' markets, family farms, and other sources of sustainably grown food in your area, where you can buy produce, grass-fed meats, and many other goodies.

Organic Consumers Association (www.organicconsumers.org)

The Organic Consumers Association (OCA) is an online and grassroots non-profit 501(c)3 public interest organization campaigning for health, justice, and sustainability.

USDA - Find a Farmers Market

Use this USDA tool to find farmers markets in any U.S. state.

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (vdacs.virginia.gov)

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) promotes the economic growth and development of Virginia agriculture, provides consumer protection and encourages environmental stewardship.

2022 FOR Wild and Scenic Film Festival

2022-03-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

10th Annual Friends of the Rappahannock Wild and Scenic Film Festival (Hybrid format)

University of Mary Washington Outdoor Amphitheater
Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401
April 2nd, 2022
Doors Open at 7pm l Films 8-10pm

After a two-year hiatus, the 10th annual Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) Wild and Scenic Film Festival will be held April 2nd, 2022, at the University of Mary Washington (UMW) Outdoor Amphitheater in Fredricksburg, Virginia.

The event will be presented in a hybrid format so that the Wild & Scenic festival can be enjoyed throughout the entire watershed. Whether enjoying the films virtually or in person, viewers will have access to the online film program for 5 days after the initial showing time.

The Wild and Scenic Film Festival is a wonderful opportunity for all ages to enjoy a broad spectrum of environmentally themed films about a wide range of causes and issues from across the globe.

The Wild and Scenic Film Festival travels on tour across the country and offers over 100 films to host at the hundreds of events nationwide.

source: riverfriends.org

Shenandoah National Park Fee Free Days 2021

2021-01-18T08:05:00.002-08:00

There will be seven fee-free days at Shenandoah National Park in 2021. Six of the days celebrate significant national events and all national parks will waive their entrance fees on those days. The seventh day, Neighbor Appreciation Day, is a special fee-free day for Shenandoah National Park alone.

Shenandoah National Park fee-free days for 2021 are:

● Monday, January 18 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
● Saturday, April 17 – First Day of National Park Week/National Junior Ranger Day
● Saturday, June 19 – Neighbor Appreciation Day
● Wednesday, August 4: One year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
● Wednesday, August 25 – National Park Service Birthday
● Saturday, September 25 – National Public Lands Day
● Thursday, November 11 – Veterans Day

The entrance fee waiver for the fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities such as camping or special tours. Shenandoah National Park’s entrance fee is normally $30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle and $15 per individual providing entry for seven consecutive days.

Shenandoah National Park overlook

With over 200,000 acres of protected lands, Shenandoah National Park is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Virginia.

The park is known for its cascading waterfalls, spectacular vistas, wildflowers, and quiet woodlands and other habitats.

Old Rag is the most popular destination in Shenandoah National Park. The mountain is popular with hikers, climbers, and explorers.

Shenandoah National Park is within a two or three hour drive from Washington, D.C., Hampton Roads, and other metropolitan areas.

In 1976, Congress designated 79,579 acres of Shenandoah National Park as Wilderness under the Eastern Wilderness Areas Act.

The Shenandoah National Park smartphone app allows users to explore the park with detailed maps, self-guided digital tours, points of interest, and park information.

For more information, visit the Shenandoah National Park website: https://www.nps.gov/shen/

Winter Wildlife Festival 2020

2019-12-08T13:50:00.002-08:00

The next Virginia Beach Winter Wildlife Festival will be held January 24-26, 2020. Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation, in partnership with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Winter Wildlife Festival.

Three days of guided outdoor field trips offer the chance to see wintering coastal birds and wildlife, including ducks, seabirds, owls, whales, seals, winter songbirds, and more.

Winter Wildlife Festival weekend includes a free keynote reception with renowned birding consultant, Sharon "Birdchick" Stiteler, as well as wildlife excursions, walk-up workshops, an exhibit hall, and children's activities.

Since 1997, Sharon ‘Birdchick’ Stiteler has traveled the world as a field trip leader, birding consultant, humorous keynote speaker, bird field technician, bird bander and writer.

She is the author of the books “Disapproving Rabbits”; “City Birds/Country Birds” and “1,001 Secrets Every Birder Should Know.” Birdchick is #32 in the Geek A Week Trading Card set and works as a National Park Ranger for the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area.

Birdchick is a regular on television and radio broadcasts including “Outdoor News Radio”; “All Things Considered”; and the ”NBC Nightly News” where she answers bird questions.

The Winter Wildlife Festival headquarters is located at the Princess Anne Recreation Center, however activity locations vary. For information on the excursions, workshops and other activities, as well as to register, visit VBgov.com/winterwildlife.

source: City of Virginia Beach

October 2019 - Visual Arts Month in Norfolk Virginia

2019-09-06T08:45:00.001-07:00

October is Visual Arts Month in Norfolk Virginia.The following list includes some of the major events that will be held during Visual Arts Month 2019.

October 5 Chelsea West Fest – hosted and benefiting Hope House Foundation, will be a full-day celebrating local crafters, musicians, local beers and brews, and the unique eateries just steps away from the festival. Gates open at noon.

October 6, 12-5pm Colonial Place/Riverview Front Porch Art Walk

October 10, 6-9pm Evening Conversations @ the Hermitage Museum Hosted by Alchemy NFK

October 12 - 13, 10am-9pm CBAA Ocean View Art Show

October 17 - 18, 6-10pm NEON FESTIVAL– NEON District anchored by the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Harrison Opera House extends to The Plot on Granby St.

October 18, 6-8:30pm Paint Night at Aries Apothecary - 3822 Granby St.

October 19 - 20 Stockley Gardens Arts Festival

For more information about Visual Arts Month in Norfolk, visit norfolkarts.net.

Related Information

Norfolk Virginia

Shore Made Music Festival 2018

2018-04-02T03:27:00.000-07:00

Shore Made Music Festival
June 17, 2018, 1-10 pm
Historic Onancock School
College Avenue
Onancock Virginia

The 2018 Shore Made Music Festival will be held at Historic Onancock School in Onancock from 1:00 pm until 10:00 pm.

This year's Shore Made Music Festival will feature local arts and craft vendors, kids activities, food vendors and beer, wine and sodas.

Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair. No coolers, please.

Ticket prices vary.

More information is available at onancockschool.org

Friends of the Rappahannock Wild & Scenic Film Festival 2018

2018-02-24T05:11:00.001-08:00

Friends of the Rappahannock’s 8th Annual Wild & Scenic Film Festival kicks off Saturday, March 24 at Rappahannock High School in Warsaw, Virginia. Doors open at 3:00 and the festival concludes at 5:30 p.m.

The festival will then travel to Fredericksburg for a showing at UMW's Dodd Aunditorium on March 31. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with movies playing from 6:45 to 9:00 pm.

The Wild & Scenic Film Festival takes audiences to the world’s most beautiful places, introduces you to the amazing creatures that inhabit them and the adventurous and courageous people who work to protect them.

The festival highlights short and inspirational movies about environmental issues, wildlife, and outdoor adventures.

These movies are suitable for people of all ages, and will be showing in both Fredericksburg and Warsaw.

Friends of the Rappahannock (FOR) is a non-profit, watershed advocacy group in its 33rd year of protecting the Rappahannock River, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay.

Virginia Arts Festival 2018

2018-02-08T11:41:00.006-08:00

2018 marks the Virginia Arts Festival’s 22nd season. This year's Virginia Arts Festival will feature Bernstein at 100 Tributes, Classic Ballet and Contemporary Dance, A Mozart Celebration, lively theater, and music from classical to jazz to pop.

On opening weekend, the Virginia Arts Festival will participate in a worldwide celebration of the music of Leonard Bernstein.

Friday, April 13 at the Ferguson Center for the Arts in Newport News, and Saturday, April 14 at Chrysler Hall in Norfolk, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra is joined by the Virginia Chorale and Todd Rosenlieb Dance in performances of some of Bernstein’s most exciting works.

The audience is taken on a breathtaking ride through the joyful celebration of the Chichester Psalms, the darkly intricate beauty of the Serenade, featuring Grammy-nominated violinist Robert McDuffie, the transporting Symphonic Dances from West Side Story, and the knife-edge jazz of Prelude, Fugue and Riffs, written for Benny Goodman and performed here by award-winning clarinetist Jon Manasse.

Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Music Director JoAnn Falletta will conduct the celebration; Falletta studied under Bernstein while at Juilliard.

Bernstein on Broadway, Saturday, May 12 at the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts in Virginia Beach, will bring together award-winning Broadway music director Rob Fisher with Broadway stars and the Virginia Symphony Orchestra and Chorale to celebrate Bernstein’s unforgettable musicals including Candide, West Side Story, On the Town, Wonderful Town, and more.

source: Virginia Arts Festival

Related Information

Tidewater Virginia Events

2018 William & Mary Global Film Festival

2018-02-05T16:49:00.001-08:00

The 11th Annual William & Mary Global Film Festival will be held Feb. 15-18, 2018 at the Kimball Theatre.

The festival is celebrating its 11th anniversary with four days of films, special guests, workshops and receptions.

The festival will feature a diverse program of films and live events showcasing the work of international filmmakers, the William & Mary community, and a variety of performers and musicians.

For more information, visit www.wm.edu/news/

Seal Sightings in Virginia

2017-01-22T16:21:00.001-08:00

Each winter, Virginia’s coastline is visited by migrating seals, whales, and other marine life.

During these periods, the Virginia Aquarium Stranding Response Team receives dozens of calls informing them of the locations of “hauled out” seals.

Hauling out is when seals or other marine mammals temporarily leave the water between feedings. This information is helpful for the aquarium’s population surveys and research.

As sightings continue to increase, the Stranding Response Team encourages residents and visitors to leave the animals alone. It is normal behavior for seals to haul out onto beaches and rocky outcroppings to rest.

Approaching them can be dangerous. Like most marine mammals, seals are protected by federal law and should not be approached or harassed.

If threatened, they may bite people or other animals. Please also refrain from feeding them as it may result in the seals associating people with food.

When seal sightings occur, the public is advised to call the Stranding Response Program at (757) 385-7575 as soon as possible, regardless of the animal’s condition.

Taking a picture and/or video with a phone, while maintaining a safe distance, can help stranding response staff assess the condition of the animal.

The team may need to come out and evaluate the health of the animal, determine the species and location, and take photos for individual identification.

source: City of Virginia Beach

James River Boat Parade 2016

2016-12-02T09:34:00.003-08:00

The James River Parade of Lights is scheduled to take place on December 10, 2016 from 6 - 9 pm.

The parade will begin in the Upper James River at the Rockett's Landing and end at Dutch Gap.

Each year, boaters decorate their boats and converge on the James River for a parade that marks the beginning of the holiday season. The parade also features free entertainment at viewing sites.

Viewing sites near Richmond include Libby Hill Park, Osborne Park and Boat Landing, Dutch Gap Boat Landing, and Henricus Historical Park.

The James River Parade of Lights is presented by the James River Advisory Council. For more information, visit www.jrac-va.org.

Things To Do in Hampton Roads Virginia - Christmas 2016

2016-11-26T04:06:00.002-08:00

This post includes things to do in Hampton Roads Virginia during the Christmas and winter holiday season.

This list includes events around Chesapeake, Hampton, Norfolk, Newport News, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and other communities in the 757 area.

Chesapeake

Jingle Ball
Chesapeake Conference Center
700 Conference Center Drive
Chesapeake, VA 23320
www.chesapeakeconference.com
December 2, 2016 (6:00 pm)

Christmas Palooza Craft Show
Chesapeake Conference Center
700 Conference Center Drive
Chesapeake, VA 23320
www.chesapeakeconference.com
December 4-5, 2016

Holiday Brass Concert - Virginia Symphony Orchestra
Chesapeake Conference Center
700 Conference Center Drive
Chesapeake, VA 23320
www.chesapeakeconference.com
December 14, 2016 (7 pm - 9 pm, doors open at 6:00 pm)

Hampton

Holiday and Kwanzaa Marketplace
Friday, December 2, 2016 (Friday 10 am -7 pm, Saturday 1-4 pm)
Hampton University Museum
11 Frissell Ave
Hampton, VA 23669

Norfolk

Outdoor Ice Skating
MacArthur Center Outdoor Ice Rink
Monticello Avenue and Freemason Street
Downtown Norfolk VA
November 2016 - January 16, 2017

Best Christmas Pageant Ever - Hurrah Players
TCC Roper Performing Arts Center
Granby Street
Norfolk VA
December 10, 2016 (7 pm)

Dickens Christmas Towne
Norfolk VA
November - December 31, 2016

Garden of Lights
Norfolk Botanical Garden
November 24 - December 31, 2016 (5:30 pm - 10:00 pm nightly)

2016 Town Point Park Holiday Market and Holiday Yule Log Bon Fire
Town Point Park
Norfolk VA
December 3, 2016 (12:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M.)

Charles Dickens - A Christmas Carol
Wells Theatre
110 East Tazewell Street
Norfolk VA
December 7 - December 24, 2016

Virginia Symphony Orchestra - Chorus Holiday Pops
Chrysler Hall
215 Saint Pauls Boulevard
Norfolk VA
December 10, 2016 (8:00 p.m.)

ELF The Musical
Chrysler Hall
215 Saint Pauls Boulevard
Norfolk VA
December 16-18, 2016 (8:00 p.m.)

Handel's Messiah
Harrison Opera House
160 West Virginia Beach Boulevard
Norfolk VA
December 17, 2016 (8:00 p.m.)

Newport News

Newport News Celebration in Lights
Newport News Park
Ft. Eustis Blvd. and Jefferson Ave.
Newport News, VA
November 24, 2016 through January 1, 2017 (5:30 - 10:00 p.m)

Hollydazzle - 2016
City Center at Oyster Point
Newport News VA
Saturday, December 3, (4-8 pm)

Holiday Frost Celebration
Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
2410 Wickham Ave
Friday, December 9, 2016 (4-7 pm)

Twas the Night Before Christmas - Virginia Repertory Theater
Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
2410 Wickham Ave
Newport News, VA
Saturday, December 10, 2016 (1 pm)

Oh Where, Oh Where is My Christmas Tree? - K'bana Blaq and Friends
Downing-Gross Cultural Arts Center
2410 Wickham Ave
Newport News, VA
Saturday, December 17, 2016 (7 pm)

Portsmouth

Portsmouth Winter Wonderland
Portsmouth Art and Cultural Center
Portsmouth VA
December 2016

Suffolk

5th Annual Artisan Gift Fair at the Pavilion
Suffolk Visitor Center Pavilion
524 North Main Street
December 3, 2016 (10 am-5 pm)

Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society Candlelight Tour
Sights and Sounds of Christmas
757.539.2781
www.SuffolkHistory.org
December 3-4, 2016 (3 pm-7 pm)

Suffolk Holiday Parade
Downtown Suffolk
757.514.7267
www.suffolkva.us/parks
December 10, 2016 (7 pm)

Virginia Beach

A Christmas Carol - Virginia Musical Theatre
Sandler Center
201 Market St.
Virginia Beach, VA
December 2-4, 2016

Virginia Beach Holiday Parade
Atlantic Avenue between 15th and 25th streets
Virginia Beach, VA
Dec. 3, 2016 (5:30 pm)

Sleigh Bells Ring Out - The Mavericks
Sandler Center
201 Market St.
Virginia Beach, VA
December 7, 2016

Virginia Beach Farmers Market Craft Show
and Breakfast with Santa
Virginia Beach Farmers Market
3640 Dam Neck Rd.
Virginia Beach, VA
December 7, 2016 (10 am – 4 pm)

Holidays around the World
Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library
4100 Virginia Beach Blvd.
December 10, 2016 (11 am – 3 pm)

The Nutcracker - Ballet Virginia International
Sandler Center
201 Market St.
Virginia Beach, VA
December 16-18, 2016

34th Annual Messiah Sing Along
Sandler Center
201 Market St.
December 23, 2016

Fall 2016 Hampton Roads Art Shows

2016-09-06T05:03:00.001-07:00

A variety of art shows, festivals, and other events will be held this fall in Hampton Roads.

Near Hampton, the Sixth Annual Buckroe Beach Arts in the Park festival will be held September 10 at Buckroe Beach Park on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay.

Presented by the Buckroe Improvement League, Arts in the Park will include local arts and crafts, community interest booths, food vendors, and more.

The Neptune Festival Art Show from September 30 - October 2.

The the Fourth Annual Chelsea West Fest will be held October 1 from noon to 6 p.m. in West Ghent, Norfolk.

The free festival, organized by Hope House Foundation, will feature a wide variety of hand-made items from local crafters, talented local musicians, local beers, local food vendors, and local products.

The 43rd Annual Fall Festival of Folklife will be held October 1-2, 2016, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. at Newport News Park

Southeast Virginia's biggest traditional craft show features over 200 vendors, traditional crafts and trades, folk entertainment, food vendors, and children's activities.

Norfolk’s Visual Arts Week includes the Ocean View Art Show and the Stockley Gardens Art Show.

The 54th Annual Ocean View Art Show has been Postponed to October 29 & 30, due to the threat of Hurricane Matthew.

The show will feature painters, sculptors, jewelers, potters, and other artists displaying their work in the Ocean View Beach Park.

2016 Chelsea West Fest - Norfok VA

2016-08-29T14:17:00.000-07:00

The Fourth Annual Chelsea West Fest will be held on October 1st, 2016 from noon to 6 p.m.

The festival in the Chelsea Business District, at the intersection of Orapax Street and Boissevain Avenue in West Ghent, Norfolk.

Organized by Hope House Foundation, the free festival celebrates the energy of local offerings with a wide variety of hand-made items from local crafters, talented local musicians, local beers, local food vendors, and local products.

The entertainment schedule offers a little something for everyone including some of the region's most popular performers.

Noon - 12:30 PM: Dan Pelligrino
12:30 - 1:00 PM: The Drendas
1:30 - 2:30 PM: 3 Legged Back Porch Collective
3:00 - 4:00 PM: 11 Ton
4:30 - 6:00 PM: Anthony Rosano and The Conqueroos

Proceeds from Chelsea West Fest support the programs of Hope House Foundation. Since 1964, Hope House Foundation has worked on the frontlines of the battle for independence, community inclusion and true citizenship for people with developmental disabilities.

For more information, visit www.hope-house.org.

Harvest Faire 2016 - Newport News VA

2016-08-07T02:43:00.000-07:00

Now in its 22nd season, Harvest Faire, will be held in Newport News October 7-9, 2016.

Harvest Faire is held at Endview Plantation, 362 Yorktown Rd. Times are Friday 5-9pm, Saturday 9am-9pm, and Sunday 9am-3pm.

Harvest Faire is the Virginia Peninsula’s oldest Renaissance Festival. The event features medieval combat and encampments, knights on horseback, live music and dance, merchants, food, period games, and other activities.

Tickets are $20 for an adult weekend pass, $5 Friday, $15 Saturday and $10 Sunday; $10 for a youth (ages 6-12) weekend pass or $5 daily for youth. Children 5 and under attend for free. Discount advance weekend tickets are available at harvestfaire.org.

Harvest Faire is a non-profit 501c3 charity that raises funds for other local charities.

For more information, visit www.harvestfaire.org.

2016 East Coast She Crab Soup Classic

2016-03-03T15:11:00.000-08:00

Restaurants and chefs from around Hampton Roads will gather to compete for the title of “Best She Crab Soup” at the East Coast She Crab Soup Classic April 9 at the 24th Street Park along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

Guests are invited to sample an entry from each of 22 competing restaurants. Based on tastings, there are two categories for best recipe winners; People’s Choice Awards and Critic’s Choice Awards.

For more information, visit beachstreetusa.com

source: City of Virginia Beach

James River Boat Parade 2015

2015-12-03T03:44:00.000-08:00

The James River Parade of Lights will begin in the Upper James River at the Rockett's Landing and end at Henricus Park. The event will take place on December 12, 2015 beginning at 5:00 p.m. and ending at 10:00 p.m.

Chesapeake Virginia Fly Fishing Workshop

2015-11-07T15:30:00.001-08:00

Fly Fishing Workshop at Northwest River Park
Date:     December 5, 2015
Time:     10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Location:     Northwest River Park
1733 Indian Creek Road
Chesapeake, VA

Anglers can attend a free fly fishing free workshop at Northwest River Park in Chesapeake Virginia. No experience is necessary and no is gear required.

The workshop will cover the basics of fly fishing equipment including rods, reels, line, terminal tackle and accessories. Club members will guide anglers through tying their first fly, offer instruction, and assist with hands-on practice casting. Anglers that wish to fish afterwards should bring their fishing license with trout stamp to the park.

The fly fishing free workshop is sponsored by: Bill Wills SE Virginia Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism, and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

RSVP at 757-421-7151

For more information, contact Northwest River Park, 757-421-7151

source: City of Chesapeake

Lynnhaven River NOW Seafood Festival 2015

2015-10-30T05:32:00.005-07:00

Lynnhaven River NOW Fall Fest Seafood Festival
November 7, 2015
Lynnhaven Shellfish Company & Back Deck
3323 Shore Drive
Virginia Beach, VA

The 2015 Lynnhaven River NOW Seafood Festival will feature food and drinks in a beautiful location on the Lynnhaven River.

Tickets are $40 and available at Bubba's, Lynnhaven Shellfish and the Back Deck.
3323 Shore Drive or call 757-481-7512.

Fall Fest benefits Lynnhaven River NOW.

Hurricane Joaquin

2015-10-01T05:06:00.001-07:00

On September 30th, Governor Terry McAuliffe declared a state of emergency throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The declaration empowers public safety officials to respond to weather-related events in communities across Virginia.

The Executive Order, which operates retroactively to Tuesday, September 29th, allows Virginia state and local emergency responders to begin to prepare for the effects of the 8-10” of rain forecast across the Commonwealth Thursday and Friday, as well as the potential that Hurricane Joaquin will impact Virginia.

For more information, visit:

http://governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/newsarticle?articleId=12931.

Things To Do in Virginia - October 2015

2015-09-28T16:35:00.000-07:00

October is one of the best times to enjoy festivals, shows, and other activities in Virginia. The following list includes events that are scheduled for October 2015.

~~Newport News Fall Festival of Folklife~~

~~The 42nd Newport News Fall Festival of Folklife will be held on Saturday, October 3 & Sunday, October 4, 2015 each day from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Newport News Park in Newport News, Virginia.~~

The 2015 Newport News Fall Festival of Folklife will feature over 200 exhibitors showcasing traditional crafts, heritage trade demonstrations, entertainment, children’s activities, and food. The Fall Festival of Folklife attracts 70,000 visitors each year to Newport News Virginia.

Harvest Faire at Endview Plantation

Harvest Faire, the Peninsula’s Renaissance Festival will be held October 9 -11, 2015. The event includes demonstrations of period life, combat, and horsemanship as well as music, dance, merchants, and games.

Hours are Friday 5pm - 9 pm, Saturday 9am - 9pm, and Sunday 9am - 3pm. For more information visit www.harvestfaire.org.

Suffolk Peanut Fest

The 38th anniversary Suffolk Peanut Fest will be held October 8-11, 2015. This family-friendly event honors the city’s agriculture heritage and devotion to peanuts. The Suffolk Peanut Fest has been featured in numerous magazines, including Southern Living, The Southern Farmers Almanac, Best Festivals - Mid Atlantic, Sauveurs, and Virginia Business.

Suffolk Peanut Fest includes concerts, amusement rides, contests and competitions, demolition derby, truck and tractor pull, motorcycle rally, fireworks, and more.

For more information, visit: http://www.suffolkpeanutfest.com/

Friday Night Frights

Hermitage Outdoor Film Series gets a terrifying new twist in October with the airing of five popular horror flicks. This year's lineup includes: A Nightmare on Elm Street (Oct. 16), Night of the Living Dead (Oct. 23), Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho (Oct. 29), and two PG film nights: Frankeenweenie (Oct. 9) and The Goonies (Oct. 30).

Gates will open at 5:30 p.m. each evening and the film will begin at 7 p.m. Admission is free for members, $7 for non-members, and includes entrance to the museum's fall exhibit and a raffle ticket for a prize drawing from 96x.
Location:
Hermitage Museum & Gardens
7637 North Shore Rd,
Norfolk, VA 23505

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Fee Free Weekend

Entrance to Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is free on October 10-11, 2015 in celebration of National Wildlife Refuge Week.

Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge includes more than 14,000 acres of beach, dunes, marsh, and maritime forest.

Visual Arts Week in Norfolk (October 10-18, 2015)

The 2nd annual Visual Arts Week in Norfolk will be held October 10-18, 2015. Visual Arts Week begins with the Chesapeake Bay Art Association’s 53nd Annual Ocean View Art Show, October 10 and 11. This popular show is open 10am-5pm both days at Ocean View Beach Park, overlooking the Chesapeake Bay.

The Norfolk Arts District along Granby Street will host the NEON Festival, a celebration of energy, art and light October 15, 5-10pm and October 16, 3-10pm. Long time cultural institutions like the Chrysler Museum of Art and Harrison Opera House anchor the District while new art venues like Glass Wheel Studio and Work|Release provide artists a place to make, create and show.

Local and national artists, performers and musicians will showcase their talents at pop-up venues, the Plot and at various anchors of the NEON District. On display will be tiny art, large gateway murals, and neon light throughout the festival.

Many events are free and open to the public, including CRAFTED: Indie Arts and Craft Market at O’Connor Brewing Co. (October 10), the Colonial Place & Riverview annual Front Porch Art Walk (October 12). The public can also take a public art walking tour. Participants will meet at MetalMatisse at MacArthur Square and take a tour of Public Art in Downtown, Norfolk. (October 14 at 6pm).

Exhibitions will be held at the Offsite Gallery, Transit Gallery, Neil Britton Gallery, OKAY Spark Gallery, Kellam Galleries, Corner Gallery, Paul Street Gallery, Art Works Gallery and Frame Shop, Granby Street Gallery, James Wise Gallery, Baron and Ellin Gordon Art Gallery, and other locations.

Visual Arts Week concludes with the 2015 Stockley Gardens Fall Arts Festival, October 17, 10am-5pm, and October 18, 12pm-5pm. More than 25,000 people come to see and buy fine art and enjoy live entertainment and kids’ activities throughout the festival.

Town Point Virginia Wine Festival

The 28th Annual Town Point Virginia Wine Festival will be held October 17 & 18, 2015, from 11am - 6pm at Town Point Park on Norfolk's Downtown Waterfront.

Town Point Virginia Wine Festival will feature a wide selection of Virginia wines, live musical performances, gourmet foods, and specialty wares.

Newport News Oyster Roast

The Newport News Oyster Roast will be held at the City Center on October 23, 2015 from 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. The event will feature music by Ammons’ All Stars and The Tiki Bar Band, local seafood, a variety of beverages, games, give-a-ways, and free children’s activities.

FilFest 2015

FilFest, a two-day celebration of Filipino arts and culture, will be held at Virginia Beach Town Center on Friday, Oct. 23, from 6 to 10 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 24, from noon to 10 p.m.

This family-friendly event will feature traditional cuisine, cultural performances, dance and music with guest appearances by comedian Rex Navarrete; singer and actress Stephanie Reese; singer, songwriter and actor Martin Nievera, and retired NBA player Raymond Townsend.

For additional information, visit Beachstreet USA.

Attucks Jazz Series: Katie Thiroux

Jazz Bassist Katie Thiroux will perform on Saturday, October 24, 2015 at the Attucks Theatre in Norfolk, Virginia.

For more information, visit:

http://vafest.org/2015/2015-performances/attucks-jazz-series?camefrom=EMCL_725185_30893679.

NOTE:

Readers are encouraged to check back periodically as new events will be added to this post when available.
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2015 Neptune’s Art and Craft Show - Virginia Beach

2015-09-24T03:24:00.001-07:00

Due to severe weather for the weekend, Neptune Festival planners had to cancel or relocate several events.

Neptune’s Art and Craft Show is moving to the Virginia Beach Convention Center (1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451).

Over 240 artists from around the country are expected to participate. The show will be free and open to the public.

King Neptune XVII and the royal court will be at the Art and Craft Show on Saturday, September 26 at 11 am.

Neptune’s Art and Craft Show hours will be Friday 12 pm – 7 pm, Saturday 10am – 7 pm, Sunday, 10 am – 6pm.

For additional information call the Festival Office at 757-498-0215 or visit www.facebook.com/NeptuneFestival.

Eastern Shore Birding Festival 2015

2015-09-20T02:25:00.000-07:00

Eastern Shore Birding Festival
October 8 - October 11, 2015
Cape Charles, VA

Held on the southern tip of the Delmarva Peninsula near Cape Charles, Virginia, the Eastern Shore Birding and Wildlife Festival celebrates the peak of fall bird migration in a pristine coastal environment.

The region is surrounded by the Chesapeake Bay to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, which creates a natural “funnel” effect for migrating hawks, warblers and other songbirds in the Fall.

The festival includes lectures, field trips (by land and boat), kayaking tours, an oyster roast, photography contest, and other activities.

In addition to birding, visitors can explore historic Cape Charles and other seaside villages.

For more information, visit www.esbirdingfestival.com.

Mount Trashmore Park Community Yard Sale

2015-09-18T10:48:00.002-07:00

Mount Trashmore Park Community Yard Sale
Saturday, September 19
9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Mount Trashmore Park
310 Edwin Drive, Virginia Beach

A community yard sale will be held on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Mount Trashmore Park in Virginia Beach. The Mount Trashmore Park community yard sale will include free admission and parking, used furniture, clothing, tools, and more from more than 75 sellers all in one spot.

source: City of Virginia Beach