Cultural, Music and Food Festivals

NORFOLK, Va. – Celebrations will continue into the new decade as Norfolk, Virginia’s festival season – the annual showcase of the region’s sounds, sights and tastes through more than 100 public events – kicks off. Town Point Park, which has served as the scenic backdrop to many of the events in the past, will continue to host beloved festivals with a fresh face following a multi-million dollar renovation in 2009.
Festival favorites, include the Sham Rock n’ Roll, the Cinco de Mayo celebration, the 4th Of July Great American Picnic and much more.  Not only are Norfolk’s events and offerings easily accessible, they are affordable with the Sail into Savings promotion, where many Norfolk hotels offer discounts on admissions to the Norfolk Botanical Garden, Chrysler Museum of Art, numerous sailing expeditions such as the American Rover, Victory Rover and Spirit of Norfolk and much more.

    One of the Mid-Atlantic’s most exciting destinations, Norfolk, Virginia attracts thousands of travelers each year to enjoy its lively waterfront downtown which is easily walkable and alive with eclectic dining options, a rich arts scene, high-end shopping and fun, year-round special events. For four hundred years this dynamic heart of Virginia’s storied sea front region has offered a vibrant blend of history and heritage, contemporary attractions, outdoor adventure and the Commonwealth’s most revered cultural institutions. For more information about Norfolk, visit the city on the Web at www.visitnorfolktoday,com or call 757-664-6620 or toll free at 800-368-3097.
A comprehensive list of events and information about Norfolk’s cultural venues, world-class restaurants and historical landmarks and museums can be found at visitnorfolktoday.com. Below is a sampling of exciting events the beautiful seaport city of Norfolk has to offer in 2010:


JULY
28th Annual Great American 4th of July Picnic and Fireworks - July 4, 2010
This patriotic and fun celebration is held each year on July 4th at the Norfolk waterfront. Families and friends celebrate with picnics and socializing. The U.S. Continental Army Band provides patriotic music. Also features a sensational fireworks show. Town Point Park.

The Shore Thing Concert & Independence Day Celebration - July 4, 2010
Dance to the sounds of the classics and experience a spectacular fireworks display over the Chesapeake Bay. Ocean View Beach Park.

TGOV- Thank Goodness It’s Ocean View Beach Party and Music Series
Beginning July 9, 2010 (Fridays in July and August)
The lazy days of summer will be no match for TGOBV. The ‘Thank Goodness It’s Ocean View Beach Party and Music Series (TGOV) will be a sure fire way to rev up the after-work crowd and start off the weekend right. The Friday evening beach parties feature live music, family-friendly entertainment, children’s activities and a host of culinary options. Town Point Park.

28th Annual Norfolk Jazz Festival - July 23 – 24, 2010
An evening of cool jazz awaits visitors to the 28th Annual Norfolk Jazz Festival this summer. The region’s longest running outdoor Jazz Festival features live performances by national, local and regional jazz recording artists over the two-day festival. Town Point Park.

AUGUST
10th Annual AT&T Latino Music Festival - August 28, 2010
The largest outdoor dance floor in Hampton Roads heats up with the hottest salsa, meringue, and guaguanco dancing on the East Coast with live music by local, regional and national Latin recording artists. Town Point Park.

SEPTEMBER
5th Annual AT&T Acoustic Music Festival - September 18, 2010
Transforming the newly refurbished Town Point Park into an intimate coffee house, the annual event has quickly become one of the most popular festivals in the region. From sunrise to sundown, this festival hosts some of the region's best-known acoustic musicians. Gourmet beverages, wine and food will be available throughout the day. Town Point Park.

5th Annual Mid-Autumn Chinese Moon Festival - September 19, 2010
Commemorating one of the most celebrated of Chinese holidays, the end of the summer harvest, the festival features traditional Chinese dance and music for audiences of all ages as well as workshops, performances and lecture/demonstration programs. TowneBank Fountain Park.

OCTOBER
23rd Annual Town Point Virginia Wine Festival - October 16-17, 2010
Experience the taste of some of Virginia’s finest wines. More than 30 of the state’s premier wineries participate in this popular waterfront festival. Boater’s packages and group chalets are available. Festival goers can also sample gourmet, Virginia food items, specialty crafts and live musical entertainment. Town Point Park.