After some unsettled days of “is it winter or summer?” the weather in Norfolk has finally decided to declare itself springlike, which means warm-season farmers’ markets are in full swing. A recent visit to the Afterglow Summer Market (held each second and fourth Wednesday of the month in the Railyard District, part of the Railroad neighborhood) yielded some details on what’s perfectly in season right now.
Cruciferous Crunch: Be on the lookout for crisp cauliflower, peppery arugula and vibrant kale. Each is loaded with vitamins and perfect for salads, stir-fries or roasting.
Hearty Greens and Roots: Grab some leafy collard greens and bok choi for steaming or braising. Don’t forget those vibrant loose beets – perfect for roasting, pickling or adding a splash of color to springy salads. Garlic scapes, the flowering tops of garlic plants, offer a milder garlicky flavor ideal for pestos or dipping sauces.
Spring Greens and Alliums: Tender baby spinach is a versatile green perfect for salads or quick sautés. Look for crisp green onions and stock up on pungent garlic for all your culinary creations.
Early Gems: Spot smaller, new potatoes perfect for roasting or boiling. Tender sugar snap peas add a delightful sweetness to salads and stir-fries.
Blooming Beauties
Norfolk’s farmers’ markets are bursting with color this spring. A stop by the Hidden Gem booth showed off a bounty of flowers from this Chesapeake-based vendor. Here’s a small sampling:
Classic Elegance: Nothing says spring like Peonies, and they offer the feel of luxury with their large, fragrant blooms at an affordable price.
Delicate Charm: Campanula, commonly known as bellflowers, come in various shades of blue and purple, adding a touch of elegance to bouquets or container gardens.
Wild and Wonderful: Embrace native wildflowers. They’re always a better choice than their invasive counterparts and are good for the ecology of the region. Look for cheery yellow Black-Eyed Susans and the graceful plumes of grey-leaf goldenrod. These low-maintenance beauties attract pollinators and add a touch of natural charm to your landscape. Or, buy them cut and display them in your home to bring a touch of the outdoors inside.
Fresh From the Seas
While they’re not exactly farmers’ market fare, it’s worth mentioning that we’re in that moderately short window of time when soft shell crabs become available. These delicate crustaceans are a local favorite, typically available from late spring to early summer. Enjoy them simply fried or get adventurous with stuffed soft-shell crab recipes.
Beyond The Market
There’s much more becoming available over the next few weeks, so keep an eye out for asparagus, radishes, lettuces and fresh herbs like basil and mint as the season progresses.
As Luísa Black Ellis surveys Knitting Mill Creek on the Lafayette Branch of the Elizabeth River, she can’t help but recall a time not so long ago when the river was declared “dead.”
“Thirty years ago, the Elizabeth River was so polluted that scientists would hold competitions to see who could pull out the most deformed fish from the river,” says Ellis, Resiliency Manager at the newly opened Ryan Resilience Lab at 4610 Colley Ave.
Today, the river’s improved health stands as testament to the efforts of the community, which along with some encouragement from the Elizabeth River Project (ERP), has adopted more sustainable building practices along its banks.
“Now we face the new threat of sea level rise,” Ellis says. “That’s why we built the Ryan Resilience Lab – to build a grass roots environmental resilience for the river and for the people who live on it.”
Situated off Colley between 45th and 46th streets, the Ryan Resilience Lab (RRL) serves as the ERP’s latest stunning visual showcase for these practices, and it’s hosting a grand opening Saturday, June 1, 2024 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public is invited to join the festivities and to learn about the lab’s efforts to combat the inevitable effects of climate change on our region.
There will be a brief grand opening ceremony at 11:30 a.m, and there will be a kids’ scavenger hunt, electric boat rides, tours, free bike rides and kayak ecotours for visitors to partake in. Earlier in the day is the Clean the Bay Day Cleanup from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Learn more here.
Green Systems
The first thing a visitor to the RRL sees is a sleek exterior fronting Colley Ave. A stone’s throw from Old Dominion University and Chartway Arena, the 6,500 square foot lab isn’t just about making visual impressions: there’s also substance to its design. The closer you look, the more impressive the structure becomes.
Built with green systems designed to withstand elements that will eventually destroy the structures around it, the lab uses off-the-shelf solutions that are within reach of the average homeowner, builder or developer. Decked out with solar panels, gardens that absorb rain, adaptable floodproofing, floating storage buildings and living roofs, the lab is meant to inspire homeowners who are concerned about the near future, but aren’t sure where to begin.
Case in point: Ellis leads a tour to the second floor of the lab on the river side, where a lush garden grows atop a flat roof. Planted with native vegetation with shallow roots, this “living garden” serves multiple purposes, she says.
“It passively insulates the building and cools or heats it as needed while reducing our need to burn fossil fuels,” she says. “It also reduces our heat island effect where cities have a lot of paved surfaces and cement that act like mirrors, doubling and redoubling the ambient heat of that area.”
Ellis adds that heat islands are often found in historically black, brown and working class neighborhoods, which is why affordability of designs like living gardens is crucial to their eventual adoption.
“The bulk of these systems we can help you design, install and cost-share,” Ellis says. “This is a really simple off-the-shelf system that anyone can install.”
Part of the RRL’s mission is to persuade builders and developers to see that green systems are not only good for the earth and the community, but can also serve as cost-saving measures during construction.
A Living Shoreline
Contrasting the hopeful energy around the lab is the stark reality that sea level rise is projected to overtake the facility within 30 to 50 years. In fact, this is why the ERP chose the former American Legion building in the first place: to show visitors in real-time that the land they’re standing on will one day no longer exist.
The lab’s living shoreline is evidence that progressive adaptation may be a better approach than a protracted fight against the inevitable. Ryan Resilience Lab’s floating structures and deep wetlands are designed to inspire homeowners to consider a not-so-distant future when they may no longer be able to occupy their homes. Built with recyclable elements, the lab is designed to be dismantled and its materials reused elsewhere when that day comes.
“We built it that way on purpose hoping people will see that and replicate it and start planning for the future with their wetlands,” Ellis says.
What may sound like a dystopian outlook for the Ryan Resilience Lab is actually a hopeful one, Ellis suggests.
“People no longer say the river is dead,” she says. “They just ask what they can do to help. We’ve made incredible progress healing the river, but we still have a long way to go.”
Norfolk is bursting with pride all June, from lively kick-off fests to the city’s signature boat parade. Support the LGBTQ+ community while having a blast at any of these events.
June 1
NEON Rainbow Market (Noon-4 p.m.): Celebrate Pride and Juneteenth with unique vendors showcasing art, fashion, and crafts in the trendy NEON District (The Plot, 776 Granby St, Norfolk, VA).
Pride Kick Off Pop-Up Event at Aries Apothecary (Noon to 6 p.m.): Support local businesses and artists at this special Pride kick-off event featuring vendors and sales (Aries Apothecary, LLC, 3822 Granby st, Norfolk, VA).
Pride Kick-Off at MJ’s Tavern (10 a.m.): Enjoy live music, drag shows, fun games, food, and festivities to kick off Pride Month at MJ’s Tavern (4019 Granby Street, Norfolk, VA).
June 6
Pride Night: Celebrate Pride at the Chrysler Museum from 6-9 p.m. The Chrysler Museum of Art is kicking off Pride Month with Hampton Roads Pride! Step right up and prepare to be amazed by a Rainbow Circus full of live performances, aerialists, carnival games, music, dancing, and art. Grab your best top hat or tutu and run away to the Museum for the greatest PRIDE on Earth! Free admission. Experience the collection after-hours on the first Thursday of each month, from 6–9 p.m. In addition to the galleries, the Museum Shop and Zinnia Café are open. Cash bar and live music. New themes each month. (1 Memorial Place, Norfolk).
June 7
Hopes & Dreams Pride Night at Smartmouth Brewing Company (6-11 p.m.): Enjoy drag performances by Jasleane Jade, Naomi Black and Maria Rose, a live DJ, and a special Pride-themed beer release, “Hopes & Dreams Hazy DIPA,” with proceeds benefiting the LGBT Life Center (Smartmouth Brewing Company Norfolk HQ, 1309 Raleigh Avenue, Norfolk, VA).
New Moon Pride Market at Selden Market (7-10 p.m.): Feel the magic of the night at this market celebrating Pride with local vendors, tarot readings, psychic and astrology readings, workshops and more at Selden Market (208 E Main St, Norfolk, VA).
June 8
Pawsnickety Pets Pride Pet Parade & Block Pawty (8:30 p.m.-10:30 a.m.): Dress up your furry friend in their most fabulous attire and join the fun at Pawsnickety Pets’ pet parade featuring a costume contest, vendors, raffles and free mini dog cupcakes (Pawsnickety Pets, 957A W. 21st Street, Norfolk, VA).
June 12
Tides Baseball: Celebrate Pride Night at Harbor Park as the Tides take on the Memphis Redbirds. It’s also Wine Down Wednesday. 6:35 p.m. (150 Park Ave., Norfolk)
June 15
Pride Night at the Virginia Zoo (5-8 p.m.): Celebrate Pride with a night filled with love, drag queens, your favorite animals like lions and tigers, a mini market with local vendors and educational resources from LGBTQ+ organizations at the Virginia Zoo (3500 Granby St, Norfolk, VA).
June 16
Pride in Chelsea: details TBA
June 17
Ghent Pride (5:30- 9:30 p.m.): Don’t miss this inclusive community event presented by the Ghent Business Association featuring food trucks, drinks, entertainment, a “Lock of Love” display where you can write a message for $8, and a chance to celebrate Pride in the heart of Ghent (The Palace Shops and Station, Ghent).
June 19
Pride Speakeasy: At Gershwin’s piano bar and restaurant, 332 Granby St. Details TBA.
June 21
The Generosity Network’s LGBTQ Happy Hour / LGBT Life Center Fundraiser (5-7 p.m.): Enjoy a fun happy hour with free drinks and giveaways while supporting the LGBT Life Center at Cogans Pizza North (4311 Colley Avenue, Norfolk, VA).
Camp Pride Block Party (7 p.m.): Dance the night away at this 18+ block party featuring top DJs, Anelz, DJ Kenny Cruz, and DJ Coop (location to be announced).
June 22
Hampton Roads PrideFest Boat Parade (Noon-2 p.m.): Kick off the PrideFest weekend with the vibrant and historic Boat Parade along the Elizabeth River, departing from Town Point Park (100 E Virginian St, Norfolk, VA). The parade is a part of the overall Hampton Roads PrideFest, being held across several cities in the region this weekend.
Norfolk Official Pride Bar Crawl (4-11 p.m.): Join the official Pride bar crawl and celebrate with friends at participating locations throughout Norfolk (locations to be announced).
June 27
Naro Minded: BOUND (1996) at Naro Cinema (7 p.m.): Enjoy a free screening of the classic lesbian neo-noir film “BOUND” in celebration of Pride Month at Naro Cinema (1507 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA).
June 29
Sapphic Pride: 7 p.m. at 37th and Zen, 1083 37th St.
All Month
Whether you’re here during June when a lineup of event take center stage or you’re exploring Norfolk any time of the year and want to show support, we’ve got the Pride gear to add some vibrancy and inclusion to your wardrobe.
Shop online, stop by our Mermaid Market at 232 E. Main St., Norfolk, or come to our Mobile Visitors Center during PrideFest to stock up on rainbow swag representing Norfolk as a city for all.
This is just a taste of the many exciting events happening in Norfolk for Pride Month. You can find up-to-date information on many events on the official Hampton Roads Pride website and social media pages for the latest updates and details.
Are you hosting a Pride event we missed? We’d love to know about it. Email us here to have it included!
Look, June is so packed with events in Norfolk, VA that we couldn’t possibly fit them all here or else you’d be scrolling for days! Just visit our events calendar and you’ll see there’s a world-class event happening nearly every single day. With that said, here are the top June events from Tides games to Pridefest to Juneteenth to Father’s Day and more.
Enjoy living music in Ocean View throughout the summer! Welcome the stars every Sunday night from 7–9 p.m. Guests are invited down to the Gazebo at Ocean View Beach Park for live Big Band music and dancing. Get up and dance or sit back and relax as you enjoy these incredible summer events! See the full summer lineup here.
A day of music and workshops curated by Aoife O’Donovan set for Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Perry Pavilion and surrounding venues downtown. Events include several concerts, a music workshop, a street market and a headlining show at 6:30 p.m.
This spectacular weekend-long event will feature the Norfolk area’s most unique & best-tasting restaurants and food trucks with all food items priced at $5 and under. This will allow you to sample a wide range of flavors and options from over 20+ vendors. Come for the food, and stay for the fun as there will be tons of live entertainment, family-friendly activities, contests, activations, and more.
America’s largest, longest-running, free maritime festival, the iconic Norfolk Harborfest enters its 47th year. For three memorable days along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront, Harborfest celebrates all of the elements that make Norfolk and Hampton Roads a historic maritime and naval community. On both land and sea, thrilling activities and live music take center stage, including the annual Parade of Sail featuring international tall ships, one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast, a mesmerizing drone show, interactive family games and activities, Navy exhibits and demonstrations, artisan foods and beverages, national and regional live entertainment and much more.
Norfolk’s favorite riverside concert series returns for its 14th summer with fun for the whole family! Relax on the shoreline and enjoy live music from across the musical spectrum. This year’s line up includes: Interactive Top 40, Country/Americana, R&B, Swing, Psychedelic Rock, Rockabilly and more. See full summer schedule.
Calling all Parrot Heads! Join us on the Battleship as we pay tribute the one and only, Jimmy Buffett, with live music by the Tiki Bar. Enjoy themed drinks, tasty bites, games and more provided by Sail Nauticus. Doors open at 5 p.m., band goes on at 5:30p.m.. Must be ages 21+ to attend, ID will be verified upon arrival.
Show Dad a fun time with Father’s Day fun throughout the city! Spend time with Dad at a beach, brewery or baseball game. Journey on a historic cruise, hit the golf course, catch a fish, or kayak along the Lafayette River. We’ve got the perfect ideas for a day with Dad.
Swim & run your way to Ocean View! With competitions and awards celebrating the youngest, oldest and fastest swimmers.
Starting at 1 p.m., tantalize your taste buds with Coastal Virginia’s finest brews. The Coastal Virginia Brew Alliance (CVBA) presents 25-30 local breweries, featuring up to 60 locally brewed beers on tap.
But that’s not all. The OV Mermaid fest will be lined with food trucks and vendors of all kinds. Discover a treasure trove of mermaid-themed delights with mermaid tailfins, coconuts, jewelry, art and more.
This much-anticipated annual event celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ+ community and allies, providing the opportunity to unify through celebrations of inclusion and equality. Norfolk has the distinct honor of being the location for the only Pride Boat Parade in the country! The parade celebrates our connections with the 300-year-old maritime history of our port cities. Town Point Park, nestled along the riverbanks of the Elizabeth River, provides a unique setting for boaters to be part of this event.
AJR – Photo by Jeremiah Kane, courtesy SevenVenues
Rescheduled from April: AJR’s 49-date Live Nation promoted tour has sold over 400,000 tickets to date and continues through the spring and summer with stops at several legendary venues, including Austin’s Moody Center, Los Angeles’ Kia Forum, Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, and two nights at AJR’s hometown arena, Madison Square Garden. Full routing is available below.
May 19-25, 2024 is National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual tradition to celebrate the U.S. travel community and tourism’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day.
Tourism is essential to our region and plays an integral role in Norfolk’s economy. As the third largest economic driver for our city, the travel and tourism industry mobilized a $149.7 million impact in fiscal year 2023. With over 7,000 jobs in the tourism and hospitality sector, our industry attracts a multitude of talents and provides significant economic benefits to both local businesses and Norfolk residents.
To celebrate tourism in our city and to shine a light on the individuals and teams who make Norfolk such a welcoming city to experience, VisitNorfolk established in 2002 the Champion of Hospitality Awards. In March and April, we invited anyone who has had a positive hospitality experience in Norfolk to nominate an individual or an entire team for the Champion of Hospitality Awards. We are excited to share the winners of this year’s awards and encourage you to visit these Champions of Hospitality in person during your next Norfolk experience.
Peter G. Decker, Jr. Hospitality Associate of the Year
Mary Buting Laundry Attendant DoubleTree By Hilton Hotel Norfolk Airport
Since 1994, Mary Buting has remained a steadfast and loyal employee in the laundry department of the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Norfolk Airport. She’s fluffed and folded laundry for guests, working extra hours and going above and beyond during Covid to clean rooms and spot check the lobby, something she said she’d never done before.
“That was a hard job,” she says. “I did a little bit of everything.”
This can-do attitude has led coworkers to say, “She is so well liked and kind to everyone that she exudes the spirit of hospitality all the way and never looks for recognition.”
“I try to give them everything they need,” she says about DoubleTree guests.
With this award, Mary is getting the recognition she deserves for three decades of service to Norfolk’s visitors.
– Nominated by Mary Elizabeth Collins, DoubleTree Norfolk
Champion of Hospitality Winners
Rob Asbury Bartender Todd Jurich Bistro
Always friendly and providing top-notch service, Rob Asbury mans the bar at Todd Jurich Bistro with the air of a true professional. Whether he’s serving our city’s visitors, locals or the eatery’s celebrity clientele, Rob is ready to deliver excellent service every time.
– Nominated by Bruce Watts
Scott & Corrie Bateman Co-Founder/Co-owner COVA Brewing Company
COVA’s commitment to quality brews, community growth and sustainability is no accident. It’s a collective effort of the team led by Scott and Corie Bateman. These two work tirelessly, serving on community boards including the Ocean View Business Association, to make this city one that will be around for future generations to live and thrive in.
– Nominated by Scott Bateman, COVA Brewing Co.
John Carter Sales and Catering Coordinator HIlton the Main
As our first-ever Rookie of the Year, John already has the chops of a seasoned pro. He handles everything thrown his way while serving as a welcoming face for guests at the Main. His teammates say they’re very lucky to have him around and look forward to seeing what he does in the future.
– Nominated by Jessica Clingenpeel, The Main Norfolk
Drazey Carvajal Front Desk Supervisor DOubleTree Norfolk Airport
Despite having no prior hospitality experience, Drazey impressed the higher-ups at Doubletree enough to land a part-time position at the hotel. Over the past two years, he has gone above and beyond, becoming a supervisor and an indispensable member of his team. He’s called the “driving force” for the front desk team and someone who puts others before himself. He’s noted for being compassionate and helping out without batting an eye.
– Nominated by Crystal Dickey, DoubleTree Norfolk
Chrysler Museum Visitor Services Team
Walk into the Chrysler Museum and it’s likely the door will be opened for you by one of these friendly ambassadors for the arts. During the recent Paul McCartney photo exhibition, the team greeted more than 60,000 visitors with knowledge and friendliness while ensuring guest safety. They also work weddings, festivals and have been nationally recognized for the level of service they provide.
– Nominated by Ashley Grove Mars, Chrysler Museum
Hannah Coats General Manager and Brew Master Grain
For 10 years, Hannah has worked her way up through the Hilton ranks, now serving as GM and brewmaster at Grain. Her coworkers note that she makes every day look easy and fun, thanks to her positive attitude and friendly demeanor. She creates a positive atmosphere for both staff and guests – and it shows in her employee retention and guest satisfaction stats.
– Nominated by Jessica Clingenpeel, The Main Norfolk
F.R.E.D. Best Tourist Shuttle
F.R.E.D. may not be a person, but this electric vehicle packs a lot of personality. Offering near-daily rides (for free!) throughout the Downtown Norfolk corridor, this battery-operated, eight-seat people mover is an extension of the Downtown Public Service Ambassador program and, well, it’s a certified hit with visitors.
– Nominated by Sam Black, Downtown Norfolk
Rebecca Kelley Pastry Chef The Stockpot Norfolk
The tasty treats on display at the Stockpot in Selden Market are carefully crafted by pastry chef Rebecca Kelley, who turns out custom cakes, themed deserts, cookies and house bread with ease every day. She pulls double duty as the Stockpot’s social media coordinator and is always happy to lend a helping hand by serving as the restaurant’s Manager On Duty multiple times a week. She’s a terrific asset for Downtown Norfolk.
– Nominated by Amber Kostka, The Stockpot Norfolk
Sydney Meers Syd’s Fish Pig Cafe
Chef Syd Meers personifies “above and beyond” with the service he provides at Syd’s Fish Pig Cafe. From staying open late to cook for late-night VIPs to entertaining guests with colorful chitchat, Syd has often opened his doors on days off to provide private dining for conference officials. An award-winning chef, Meers is also an artist in his own right.
– Nominated by Wayne Callis, VisitNorfolk
Chris Perry Assistant General Manager Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Norfolk
Noted for being the “epitome of hospitality,” Chris Perry serves as the heart of the downtown Marriott. He always has a smile on his face and “bends over backwards” to help guests feel welcome. Also nominated to be the moderator/group expert on the Marriott Employee Forum on Facebook, Chris does his best to greet every guest who steps into the Marriott.
Known for her charming personality and friendly demeanor, Plummer has helped keep city parking in check for years, going above and beyond during the recent MEAC Tournament. She bagged meters and spent three hours assisting by keeping spaces open during the opening night reception. Carla retires in October and is well deserving of this honor.
– Nominated by Jennifer Lopez, Visit Norfolk
Mary Ryder Supervisor Allied Universal Security Services
At a recent show, Mary assisted a young man who was experiencing sensory/anxiety issues. She checked on him and offered to reseat him on a lower level where he could – and did – enjoy the rest of the show. Mary went out of her way to ensure the entire family had an enjoyable evening, going far above and beyond her job description.
– Nominated by James Ball, VisitNorfolk
Lori Santiago Bell Person The Main
Walk in to the Main and it’s likely you’ll see the warm smile of Lori Santiago greeting you. She’s always dressed for the occasion, wearing themed outfits to welcome guests daily. It’s hard to beat the first impression Lori offers to guests walking into the Main, whether it’s for the first time or their hundredth time.
– Nominated by Stacy Lisborg, The Main Norfolk
Dave Walker Operations Supervisor Downtown Norfolk Council
For 25 years, Dave Walker has served as a dedicated member of the Ambassador team for the Downtown Norfolk Council. He’s always ready to lend a helping hand and direct visitors to where they want to go. He also keeps the streetscape clean and safe while dropping serious knowledge about Downtown for locals and visitors alike.
– Nominated by Sam Black, Downtown Norfolk
Vinson M Wilson Supreme Allied Commander Transformation ACT/NATO
For 20 years, Vinson has served ACT/NATO in the Protocol Office. He supported all NATO Events for General Philippe Lavigne, SACT Commander and has been an inspiration to his colleagues and team. Vinson is a previous Hospitality Champion, having won in 2009.
Your wedding venue is one of the most important choices you can make for your big day. After all, in years to come your guest may not remember your exact vows, who was there or what type of flowers you carried, but they will certainly remember where your wedding celebration took place.
One key to success? Choosing a venue that’s as unique as your relationship. Your love doesn’t fit into a category, and neither do these destinations. No matter what you love, there’s a location to help you celebrate that and incorporate your interests into the occasion for your Norfolk, Virginia wedding.
Take your love on the wild side by hosting your wedding at the Zoo. Take advantage of the venue’s grand event pavilion, featuring all the amenities of indoors but with a fresh perspective. To take your event to the next level, you can add on an animal encounter or train tickets, allowing guests to participate in a one-of-a-kind experience while celebrating your love.
This two-story event rental space in Norfolk’s NEON District blends historic industrial chic appeal with modern design elements. With multiple space options to hold your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception, the possibilities are endless to bring your vision to life. The studio features brick walls, exposed beans and an 18-foot glass garage door while the gallery boasts floor-to-ceiling brick walls, charming architectural details and tons of stunning natural light.
Neon House wedding. Photo by @the.neon.house Instagram
For a couple immersed in the wonderful world of art, a wedding at the Chrysler Museum is a must. Whether you desire a small and understated affair or a large and extravagant reception, there is a space for you. Consider Huber Court, the museum’s magnificent atrium and their most impressive event space. Alternatively, the Perry Glass Studio provides an unforgettable experience for a seated dinner or stand-up reception, complemented by a live glass demonstration.
Exchange vows under the stunning Dale Chihuly glass chandelier that hangs from the museum’s 40-foot ceiling. This ODU museum is available for night weddings. The first floor Sculpture Court seats 80, while the first and second floor encompass four galleries that can host up to 150 standing. Opt for the terrace for an outdoors ceremony or reception when reserved in combination with the Sculpture Court. Bonus: the terrace offers a dance floor and tenting for your big event.
A Slover Library Wedding. @everlyafterevents Instagram
For couples who love to get lost in a good book, we can’t think of a more suitable venue than Norfolk’s architectural marvel, the Slover Library. Not your typical library by any means, Slover is a spectacular destination innovatively designed to create a vital and dynamic resource for Norfolk’s residents and visitors. Slover offers an array of spaces to accommodate groups up to 250.
Have you always dreamed of getting married among gorgeous blooms, in a secret garden-style hideaway or in the presence of lush landscapes and natural beauty? A Norfolk Botanical Garden wedding is like no other, encompassing 175 breathtaking acres. The garden is the ideal setting for a dream wedding, with 13 serene outdoor locations to choose from. From an intimate party of 20 to an extravagant affair for up to 400 guests, the garden has everything needed to make your love blossom.
Tucked along the waterfront of the Lafayette River, the Hermitage Museum & Gardens features 12 acres of gardens and grounds. This Arts & Crafts style estate is an extremely popular Norfolk wedding spot, thanks to the views of the river, the majesty of the building and the grandeur of the grounds. Host your ceremony in the Rose Garden, the historic (and romantic) interior or on the sprawling central lawn. The Hermitage is suitable for parties of up to 200.
This elegant, beautiful and unique bed and breakfast with one of Norfolk’s most esteemed restaurants on-site is the ideal venue to host a rehearsal dinner, wedding reception or all three. The restaurant can accommodate 28 guests for a rehearsal dinner they’ll never forget, and the outdoor courtyard can hold up to 24 guests seated or up to 50 for a gathering. Four Eleven York is a true Norfolk treasure and ideal for intimate weddings focused on a love for one another and an adoration for unmatched cuisine.
Located in the historic Martin Mansion (a 10,000-square-foot, 21-room Georgian revival built in 1909), the Woman’s Club of Norfolk is a stately and historic venue for couples who can appreciate the finest details and simple elegance of yesteryear. Celebrate the night away as dignitaries, celebrities and many presidents once did during the golden age of the Roaring Twenties. Create an extraordinary memory for you and up to 100 guests that will be recounted for years to come.
Yes, that’s correct. You can join together in matrimonial bliss aboard one of City Cruise Experience’s two ships. Choose from daytime, sunset or nighttime ceremonies and dance the night away just offshore as the lights of Norfolk twinkle, adding to the magic of the evening. City Cruises hosts ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners and other wedding-week events to get your whole crew into the maritime spirit. Packages include multi-hour cruises with meals, cake cutting, champagne toasts, cocktails and service staff to make the most of your day. Likewise, the American Rover sailboat can accommodate up to 100 guests for a dual ceremony/reception, along with a full bar, catering and DJ services.
Weddings That Take Center Stage
If your love is the stuff that great stories are made of, go ahead and make your day a production for everyone to see. These locales will provide all the theatrics (but none of the drama) needed to produce a truly show-stopping event.
The Attucks Theatre was built in 1919 as a mecca for entertainment and commerce in the heart of the city’s minority community, much like New York’s Harlem. In its heyday, it was even dubbed the Apollo of the South. Today, the Attucks’ ornate interior and storied history as being the oldest remaining theater in the country that was financed, designed, constructed and operated by African Americans make it an exceptional venue to start a journey together. For intimate settings, the Lower Banquet Room can accommodate receptions up to 190. For larger celebrations, the Upper Banquet Room can hold receptions up to 400.
Conveniently located on St. Paul’s Boulevard Downtown, Chrysler Hall has set the stage for some of Norfolk’s top performances and Broadway shows. Make your wedding the main event by taking advantage of the venue’s rich decor and glorious chandeliers. The main lobby and two-level grand hall can accommodate bistro tables and buffet serving tables, while the dress circle will hold up to 450 for standing cocktails and 250 for a seated dinner.
The historic Granby Theater has been renovated into a beautiful venue for private events, including weddings. Originally opened in 1916, Granby Theater still maintains its historic beauty with crystal chandeliers, tall ceilings, gold leaf trimmed walls, velvet curtained stage and more. Enjoy superior service along with the classical ambiance and unique characteristics the theater has to offer, making your event one-of-a-kind.
Start your marriage on a high note at Harrison Opera House, a premiere facility for elegant affairs. Dramatic towers frame the dynamic facade and enclose an elegant staircase to the grand foyer and balcony levels. A three-story grand lobby with cantilevered balcony lobby, floor-to-ceiling windows and grand chandeliers makes the perfect setting for a wedding that’s dramatic in all the right ways. The grand lobby on the second floor can accommodate up to 350 guests for cocktails, up to 225 for a seated dinner and up to 210 with a dance floor.
Even when a wedding isn’t happening, there’s something about the Wells Theatre that’s timelessly romantic, an intimate glimpse into the gilded age of days gone by. The intricate design of this magnificent historical theater adds a touch of extravagance to events held here, particularly weddings. The handsomely appointed facility can host receptions up to 250 and banquets up to 75.
@valerie.demo Instagram
Venues With Brews
Love hanging out at Norfolk’s breweries? Who doesn’t? In fact, your guests would quite enjoy the laid-back, welcoming vibe at some of the city’s most beloved breweries, not to mention the never-ending supply of craft beers. Consider one of these venues to host your rehearsal dinner or wedding.
You already love the vibe of Bold Mariner’s wraparound porches and laid-back leisure in Norfolk’s Ocean View neighborhood, so why not make it your venue? Reserve the second floor of this beautiful brewery (and the porch as well for an additional fee) and plan to bask in their wide open space with walls of windows and gorgeous hardwood floors. Take advantage of BAR-Q’s full catering menu, plus your favorite Bold Mariner beverages stocked to your delight.
For lovers simply elated to tie the knot, Elation Brewing offers stunning architectural details as the backdrop of a perfect day. A completely exposed brick wall, plenty of windows offering bursts of natural light and nearly 90-foot bowstring trusses are just a few of the visual elements that couples can look forward to. Meanwhile, their stellar assortment of beers are sure to please the palate of each guest.
Another one of Norfolk’s OG breweries, Smartmouth is ready to host receptions in thea most wonderful way. Consider their climate-controlled tasting room for up to 50 guests or their warehouse space that can accommodate up to 160 people. Best of all, you’ll have dedicated beertenders, Smartmouth’s full selection of beers on tap, choice of streaming music station and the option to provide your own food or hire a caterer or food truck.
Whatever it may be, “The Veil Made Me Do It.” This iconic neon sign of Norfolk’s top-notch brewery in the Railroad District is a favorite photo spot among wedding guests and couples, but there’s also way more reasons to consider The Veil as a place for vows. Their third floor private event space is a coveted location with a surprisingly grand view of the city. Holding up to 100 guests, it’s the perfect vibe away from all the hustle and bustle if you want to have your wedding in a brewery without feeling like you’re in a brewery. The Veil offers catering from their in-house restaurant and their event coordinator will help you iron out any and all details.
Which is more fun when it comes to antiques shopping – the hunting or the gathering? With one of Norfolk’s newest players on the vintage shopping scene, you can accomplish both at the same time.
Owned by local antiques dealer Michael Millard-Lowe, Hunt and Gather is a one-of-a-kind hot spot for treasure seekers situated in a spacious building off 21st Street in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood. The sprawling space features a carefully curated selection of vintage finds and handcrafted delights from local vendors and makers, offering a little bit of something for everyone.
Store manager Emily Holt is one of 66 vendors across 79 booths selling everything from Mid-Century Modern home decor to antiques, vintage electronics, handcrafted jewelry, books and even some more contemporary finds dating back to the ‘80s and ‘90s.
Holt’s booth, named Happy Pig Co. is a self-described “sweet little boutique filled with frivolous necessities.” Some of those necessities include eye-catching car air fresheners in a variety of scents and designs – from happy pigs to aliens and floral patterns. As with some of the other vendors, Holt also sells her wares on online platforms like Etsy.
An Upscale Flea Market
Running the shop, she says, is a dream come true. Quite a bit of hard work has gone into transforming Hunt and Gather into the hand-picked experience it is today.
“Before, it was a bit overwhelming,” Holt says of the space that reopened under new ownership in February 2023. “Like a big palette of paint mixed together.”
Now, themed booths allow each vendor to showcase their own personal aesthetic. One booth features hand-sewn aprons, pillows and bags, while another is occupied by popular local seller Hank’s Vintage. This mix of styles allows shoppers to travel back in time from the 19th Century to modern times, shopping on their own terms while they discover their next great find.
”This is the thrifting experience for people who don’t want to go thrifting,” Holt says. “Some people find thrift stores to be too chaotic. Here, I can see the vendor’s aesthetic and I don’t have to think too hard about what I want.”
Holt grew up shopping with her Mom for antiques in Maryland and always dreamed of being a part of a curated experience like Hunt and Gather.
“I wanted this store to be like that. People could come in and see everything at every price point and aesthetic.”
Currently, Hunt and Gather has a wait list for vendors, but has recently added a new space for micro businesses who don’t need a full booth but want to share their collection with the broad audience.
With several vendors refreshing their items daily, Holt says, “There’s no other store like this in Norfolk. We tried to make sure we had a lighter, more airy space for the locals here.”
As for the future of Hunt and Gather, Holt says it’s bright.
“It’s a river right now, but eventually, it’ll become the Grand Canyon.”
Hunt and Gather is located at 110 W. 21st St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Follow them on Instagram.
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s birth in 1776- The United States of America’s Semi quincentennial. International tall ships and military vessels will sail into the port of Virginia as part of Sail2025® America. 4,000 officers, cadets, and crews of more than 55 ships from 20 nations will engage in events along Virginia’s waterfront.
Thursday – Day One – Coastal Virginia – June 18, 2026
Arrive in Coastal Virginia and check into your hotel.
Start the morning at The MacArthur Memorial. The memorial museum and research center is dedicated to preserving and presenting the story of the life of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur. The Memorial also pays tribute to the millions of men and women who served with General MacArthur in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. A visit to the Memorial will allow you to explore the life of one of America’s greatest and most complex leaders.
Friday – Day Two- Virginia Beach, Virginia
Start the day with a visit to one of the smallest National Parks in the country. Here visit the First Landing Cross– marking the spot where the first permanent English settlers landed on April 26, 1607, before heading to Jamestown. The crew of 104 men and boys erected a wooden cross to mark their arrival. A granite cross was erected in 1935. Also located on this site is the Battle of the CapesMonument– honoring the Battle of the Chesapeake Bay between the French and British- one of the most significant battles, that helped clear the path for the creation of the United States. There is also a Statue of Admiral De Grasse, leader of the French Fleet.
Next up is the Cape Henry Lighthouse, the first federally funded lighthouse and the first public works project in the United States. Construction (1792) was authorized by George Washington and overseen by Alexander Hamilton. The Lighthouse is open to the public and guests can climb 191 steps to the top for a breathtaking view of where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. Located next door (not open to the public) is the New Cape Henry Lighthouse, still in use today, and is the tallest cast iron, fully enclosed lighthouse in the United States. A gift shop is located on-site.
Also don’t miss Norfolk’s annual Juneteenth celebrations on Friday, June 19, 2026 and throughout the weekend.
Saturday – Day Three – Norfolk, Virginia
Start the morning at Nauticusand step aboard the largest and last battleship,Battleship Wisconsin. Battleship Wisconsin was commissioned 75 years ago. She saw action during the Luzon Attacks in World War II and earned five battle stars. The battleship served as a training ship and engaged in active assignments several times up until Feb. 27, 1991, during Operation Desert Storm.
Nauticus & The Battleship Wisconsin
It reached its final assignment on Dec. 7, 2000, when it docked in Norfolk to become a floating museum. Do not forget to stop on the second floor and visit the Hampton Roads Naval Museum. The Hampton Roads Naval Museum is an official museum of the United States Navy. The museum interprets the history of the U.S. Navy in and around Hampton Roads, Virginia from the American Revolutionary War to the present day for service members and the general public.
Lunch and shopping at Norfolk Premium Outlets. The outlets offer a great selection of name-brand stores, a food court, and a restaurant.
In the afternoon, head to Norfolk. The first stop of the day is thePerry Glass Studio. See artists from around the world blow glass art in a theater seating from noon to 1 pm. Then take a guided tour ofThe Chrysler Museum of Art. Make sure your tour includes two copies of works that celebrate famous moments from the American Revolution, Washington at the Delaware: Two copies pay homage to John Trumbull’s Declaration of Independence and Thomas Sully’s Passage of the Delaware.
End the tour with a narrated tram tour of Norfolk Botanical Garden. Learn how the garden started a Works Progress Administration (WPA) grant for the Azalea Garden project. Since most of the male labor force was at work with other projects for the city, a group of more than 200 African-American women and 20 men were assigned to the Azalea Garden project. Today, Norfolk Botanical Garden includes 175 acres, with more than 60 themed gardens that can be viewed by tram, boat, or foot.
Enjoy dinner at Omar’s Carriage House. The building is a historic site in Norfolk. The original Carriage House was built in the early 1840s. Its patrons then were horses. From the first floor, if you look up at the center of the room, you’ll see the large opening where hay used to be loaded into carriages.
Sunday – Day Four – Norfolk, Virginia
Spend the morning aboard the Victory Rover Naval Base Cruise for a two-hour narrated tour of Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest Naval Base. Cruise past the vessels that ensure our freedom – destroyers, submarines, air carriers, and more! The land on which Naval Station Norfolk is located was originally the site of the 1907 Jamestown Exposition. During this exposition, high-ranking naval officers were consulted and favored the idea that this site was ideal for a naval base. Immediately after the United States entered World War I in April 1917, the Secretary of the Navy was persuaded to purchase the property. A bill was passed for the purchase of 474 acres.
Spend the rest of the day on the Virginia Waterfront at Sail2025® Virginia in downtown Norfolk, Virginia. 4,000 officers, cadets, and crews of more than 55 ships from 20 nations will engage in events along Virginia’s waterfront. A day of ship visitations, land and water events, food, and music.
Monday – Day Five – Virginia Beach, Virginia
Begin your morning with a Dolphin Watching Tour. Venture into the Atlantic Ocean in search of bottlenose Dolphins. Learn why Virginia Beach has the largest population of Bottlenose Dolphins on the East Coast (Whale Watching Tours are offered in the winter months)
The Chrysler Museum of Art recently announced the renowned exhibition, Early Days: Indigenous Art from the McMichael Canadian Art Collection will be on view in the Special Exhibition Gallery at the Museum, One Memorial Pl, Norfolk from May 24 – Sept. 1, 2024.
Early Days is the first survey of Canadian Indigenous art to be presented internationally. Organized by the McMichael Canadian Art Collection in collaboration with current Indigenous stakeholders—scholars, traditional knowledge keepers, and living artists—the exhibition includes both historic and contemporary art from coast-to-coast.
The exhibit, which reveals the diversity and vitality of Indigenous art in Canada, features approximately 111 objects ranging from 18th-century ceremonial regalia to the work of the vanguard artists of the ’60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. The show brings together traditional objects—beadwork garments, ceremonial masks, and stone carvings—in dialogue with contemporary Indigenous practices for visitors to will discover the thriving traditions of First Nations groups from across Canada. Early Days features such artists as Norval Morrisseau, Carl Beam and Alex Janvier and includes leading contemporary Indigenous artists like Kent Monkman, Meryl McMaster and Rebecca Belmore. As the only museum in Canada devoted exclusively to Canadian art, the McMichael’s collection offers a definitive account of Indigenous art in Canada today, and the powerful tensions and continuities that exist between the present and the past.
“Early Days explores our relationship to the land, to our ancestors, and to each other. It invites a deep connection with the issues that lie at the heart of Indigenous experience, revealing cultures that are vibrant and transforming in the 21st-century. This exhibition, along with Preston Singletary: Raven and the Box of Daylight in 2023, Clearly Indigenous coming in 2025, and the Tsenacommacah installation that graces the Museum’s entrance, are commitments to increasing Indigenous representation within the Chrysler Museum of Art.” said Chelsea Pierce, McKinnon McKinnon Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art.
MEMBER PREVIEW CELEBRATION Thursday, May 23, 6–9 p.m. Exhibition preview of a rich selection of Indigenous works and stories that celebrate two centuries of powerful legacies in the McMichael’s Canadian Art Collection. Free for members $20 for non-members
Before you even set foot into Riverview’s LeGrand Kitchen, the restaurant makes its intentions very clear: this place is about rock ‘n roll, good times and even better hamburgers. Swathed in a baby-blue-on-gray exterior paint scheme featuring a large mural of singer Gary U.S. Bonds, LeGrand is an unabashed ode to the music, food and sometimes raucous culture that shaped Norfolk in the middle of the 20th Century.
Visiting on a quiet Thursday afternoon, the kitchen is in full-on pre-shift prep mode. Owner/chef Stephen Marsh, an unassuming restaurateur who looks like he’d be equally comfortable practicing ollies in a local skate park, quietly presides over his staff as fruit infusions are expertly prepared at the bar and sauces whipped up before the evening’s rush.
As he shows off his collection of postcards and early Norfolk memorabilia, one of his chefs glides by with a spoonful of what appears to be a creamy aioli. Marsh takes a quick taste and gives the thumbs up. Without a word, it’s clear everything is on track for another successful night at the new location at 4226 Granby St.
Despite having moved into this location after a massive crowdfunding effort just over a year ago, LeGrand is still known for its staple dish: the OG Burger. Featuring a double patty topped with grilled onion, pickled lettuce, American cheese and covered in roasted shallot mayo on a Big Marty bun, the burger is still the reason people flock from around the region – and even the country – to pack LeGrand on a given night.
“We still sell a lot of burgers and to-go burgers,” Marsh says. “The burger is exactly the way you remember it from the old location.”
In fact, the burger has developed such a following that it recently ranked number 61 on Yelp’s list of Top 100 Burgers in America, which means Marsh’s creation shares the same space as burgers from Gordon Ramsay and the Michelin-starred kitchen at Minetta Tavern in New York City.
Courtesy LeGrand Kitchen
“The burger, we always say it’s like a gateway drug,” Marsh says. “Burgers are served everywhere, but not all of them are good, so if you can gain someone’s trust with something as simple as that … it takes a couple of times for them to come and say, ‘that’s so good, now let’s try something else on the menu.’”
Marsh says the key to the perfect burger is a thin patty combined with high heat for a searing effect. LeGrand uses trimmings from its steaks that are aged in house and then ground up.
“We don’t charge more money for it. We just add that extra quality,” he says.
A New Start in Riverview
Marsh is quick to point out that he’s “been in the kitchen” for as long as he can remember. He cut his teeth in the kitchen at 15 as a dishwasher in Pungo and has worked his way up in the industry in the intervening decades. Over the years, he’s operated the original LeGrand at Colley and 46th Street, as well as old-school oyster bar and seafood restaurant Shiptown just down the road. When he was priced out of the old location, he packed up and moved to the Riverview section of Granby Street – the same area generally occupied by MJ’s Tavern, Blanca and Mi Hogar Mexican, just south of the Granby Street Bridge. The space was previously home to Crackers Little Bar Bistro.
With a soundtrack provided by the Pixies, the Cure and the Smiths, LeGrand offers a distinctively laid back vibe. That’s intentional, Marsh says.
“From day one, we wanted to be the working man’s place, so they don’t feel like they’re underdressed. We just want to be a place where you can come in any day of the week and it doesn’t have to feel like an event.”
Despite Marsh’s humbling demeanor, he isn’t just about making great burgers. A look at the current menu displays a broad range of kitchen talent. Diners can choose from pork belly served with cherries, almond, coconut and candied jalapeno; or opt for a Pimento Cheese on toasted bread from local French bakery La Brioche. Scallops, fresh fish, steaks, chicken and the aptly-named “Tour de Pork” are also on offer.
Working with local purveyors like La Brioche is critical to being part of the community, he says.
“There’s so many things we do here in house, but we’re not gonna get better baking than what they produce. It’s a nice symbiotic relationship.”
Behind the bar, his lead bartender, Patrick, works on infusions such as clarified banana water for ice cubes, as well as apple infused sweet vermouth and a champagne cocktail mixed with Asian pear and vanilla infused syrup.
“He has a wealth of knowledge back there,” says of his bartender “We have a larger staff here now, but we’re still doing the same style of cuisine. None of that has really changed.”
Preserving the Legacy of LeGrand Records
Marsh says the restaurant’s name is a tip of the hat to Norfolk’s own musical heritage. Just as Memphis is famous for Sun Studios and Stax Records, and Detroit was home to Motown, Norfolk was the birthplace of LeGrand Records. Situated on nearby Church Street, LeGrand’s namesake produced early rock and doo-wop hits in the 1950s under the guidance of producer Frank Guida. Performers such as the Hamptons, saxophonist Gene “Daddy G.” Barge and crooner Gary “U.S.” Bonds churned out hits for several years in the halcyon days before large corporations took over the game.
In a recent Instagram post, Marsh says, “Legrand was named after Norfolk’s very own Legrand Records started in the late ‘50s on Church Street by Sicilian transplant Frank Guida. The label put out many influential and groundbreaking songs and huge bands from overseas like The Rolling Stones requested to be driven down Church Street to see where history was made.”
The decor in LeGrand Kitchen reflects this history. The large mural of a pompadour-coiffed Bonds was painted by local artist John Hickey and one of the restaurant’s two bathrooms is plastered in LeGrand Records history (the other serves as an ode to Shiptown). The bar features more than a thousand local postcards, and it was a labor of love for Marsh, who originally built it as part of a coffee table in his home. Staring up at patrons in the postcard collection is a prized autographed headshot of Bonds, famous for the sons “New Orleans” and “Quarter to Three.”
Marsh seems to understand his prominent place in Norfolk food culture, but takes it all in stride. In the end, he just hopes people come in and enjoy themselves at his eatery.
“We’re just kind of a staple now. It’s a great feeling to have the community backing us on what we’re doing,” he says. “Somebody just told us, ‘when you go to Norfolk, you have to go here.’ It’s a really good feeling.”
LeGrand Kitchen is open Tuesday through Thursday from 5-9 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from 5-10 p.m. Learn more at https://www.legrandkitchen.com/
