COMMUNITY EVENTS / FESTIVALS / LOCAL THEATER / CONCERTS / LECTURES / TALKS
Ongoing Holiday Events
Now thru Dec 31 - Winter Wonderland at the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, during normal opening hours, High St., Portsmouth. Celebrate the season with Winter Wonderland, a holiday classic for generations of Hampton Roads visitors and residents which includes scenes from the famed Coleman Collection. From Victorian scenes of animated skaters and carolers to the enchanted forest of bears, deer and Santa’s workshop, the displays are sure to delight visitors of all ages. During Winter Wonderland we also offer an array of holiday activities including crafts, face-painting, tasty treats, performances including plays, music and song, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Join us for opening weekend November 27-29 for a weekend of music, crafts, face painting and more. The Olde Towne Santa also returns to meet children and listen to their wishes for the Holiday Season, from Fri, Nov 27 thru Dec 20. See if you are on Santa’s naughty or nice list. http://www.portsmouthartcenter.com
Now thru Dec 31 - 15th Annual Pagoda & Garden LightFEST, Freemason Pagoda Garden, 5 - 11:00 pm, W. Tazwell St., Norfolk. A festive event featuring over 40,000 lights and sparkles of friendship glowing in the Garden and The Pagoda.
Now thru Dec 31 - Dominion Garden of Lights, Norfolk Botanical Garden, 5:30 - 10:00 pm, 6700 Azalea Garden Rd., Norfolk. Don’t miss Virginia's favorite holiday tradition. Bring your family and friends to our 20th annual light show extravaganza for a magical holiday experience. During this event, the Garden is transformed into a winter wonderland where you can enjoy a 2-mile drive through a million sparkling lights bringing the four seasons to life. General Admission: $25 Per Car (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday), BEST VALUE: $20 Per Car (Monday-Thursday).http://www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org/events/dominion-garden-of-lights-2015-2015-11-26/
Now thru Dec 31 - Holiday Magic, Virginia Living Museum Planetarium, 524 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard, Newport News. Kick off your holiday season at the Virginia Living Museum with “Holiday Magic,” a wonderful new laser program full of classic holiday hits all set with lasers. The whole family will enjoy this delightful show - the most amazing holiday light display you’ll see all season. Recommended for ages 6 and above. Note for daytime laser shows: Due to time limitations, not all songs may be included in every program. Your actual playlist will be determined by your laserist. Daytime shows will be reduced to 30 minutes. http://thevlm.org/events/museum-events/calendar/events/categories/holiday/
Now thru Dec 31 - Star of Wonder 50 cents, Virginia Living Museum Planetarium, 524 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard, Newport News. Since 1965, we have journeyed in the footsteps of the Magi, seeking the identity of a mysterious star which foretold the coming of a king. Over the years, the scientific thinking has changed, archeology has revealed new clues about the lands in which these events took place, and our understanding of who the Magi might have actually been has grown. Our best theory for what the sign of the wise men might have been has changed, too. The show was completely revised in 2008 to offer a truly immersive look at the journey of the Magi while examining the latest clues and seeking once more to understand the appearance of the Star of Bethlehem. VLM members free. In celebration of the Museum’s 50th anniversary, non-member tickets will be 50 cents.http://thevlm.org/events/museum-events/calendar/events/categories/holiday/
Now thru Jan 1 - Pugh Family Christmas Light Show, 5:30 to 9:30 pm weeknights, 5:30 to 10:00 pm weekends, 902 Heydon Court, Chesapeake. Welcome to the home of Charlie and Bridgette Pugh. Enjoy this annual Christmas display of synchronized lights and music.
Now thru Jan 2 - 2015 Celebration in Lights, Newport News Park, Daily 5:30 - 10:00 pm, intersection of Ft. Eustis Blvd. and Jefferson Ave., Newport News. Celebration in Lights, Virginia’s first drive-through holiday light event, opens for its 23rd season on Thanksgiving night. Newport News Park will be transformed by over 800,000 individual lights, creating animated holiday and fanciful scenes. Over 300 individual display pieces (70 animated), 43 arches, and three miles of rope lighting enhance the natural beauty of the two-mile drive along Newport News Park’s main road. The event continues to refurbish old displays with energy efficient LED bulbs. $12.00 per car and $60.00 per bus (cash, credit cards Visa/MC), and checks made payable to the City of Newport News are accepted; advance/gift tickets may be purchased at the Newport News Visitors Center. For more information, call 757-926-1400
Now thru Jan 2 - McDonald’s Holiday Lights at the Beach, 2nd Street & the Boardwalk, Sun-Thu 5:30 - 10:00 pm, Fri/Sat 5:30 - 11:00 pm, Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Take a shining journey into nautical, holiday, and adventure lands - all along the beautiful Virginia Beach boardwalk. Festive fish, jumping dolphins, frolicking porpoises - all in bright, colored lights against the clear night-time sky, are the stars of McDonald’s Holiday Lights at the Beach. They are joined by Santa, elves, and a 40-foot tall Christmas tree erected on the beach and in the beautiful parks along the Virginia Beach boardwalk. - See more at: http://www.beachstreetusa.com/festivals/mcdonalds-holiday-lights-beach#sthash.shV1ryNK.dpuf
Now thru Jan 3 - A Colonial Christmas, Yorktown Victory Center & Jamestown Settlement, daily 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Yorktown & Jamestown. Closed Christmas and New Year’s days. Holiday traditions of 18th-century Virginia are recalled through special interpretive programs. Yorktown Victory Center - Hear accounts of Christmas and winter in military encampments during the American Revolution and glimpse holiday preparations on a Revolution-period farm. Jamestown Settlement - Visitors will learn about Jamestown colony’s early years as well as the English colonists’ Christmas at sea in December 1606 and the Powhatan Indian hospitality shown to Captain John Smith’s trading party in 1608 during a winter storm. With paid admission. 757.253.4838
Now thru Jan 3 - Antebellum Holidays, Lee Hall Mansion, 163 Yorktown Road, Newport News. Guests step back in time to enjoy the elegance of a mid-nineteenth century Christmas. Period decorations enhance the historic interiors and illustrate how Richard Lee and his family celebrated the holidays in the years before the Civil War. Guided tours are offered. Regular hours and admission rates apply. 757-888-3371 | http://www.leehall.org/
Now thru Jan 3 - Christmas at Endview, Endview Plantation, 362 Yorktown Road, Newport News. Greenery and period decorations brighten the house for the 1861 holidays. Learn about the families and local history that surround this historic plantation home. Included with regular admission. 757-887-1862 | http://www.endview.org/
Now thru Jan 18 - MacArthur On Ice & Winter Carnival, MacArthur Center Square, all day, Monticello Avenue and Freemason Street, Norfolk. MacArthur Center kicks off the eleventh season of ice skating at the coolest place in town. Whether it’s a family tradition or a first date, the center’s 7,200-square-foot outdoor ice rink is the place for good times this winter. Also enjoy an outdoor Winter Carnival featuring nine family-friendly rides, including a 55-foot-tall, LED-lit Ferris wheel. www.macarthuronice.com
Thu, Dec 31 - Ring in the New Year, Suffolk Art Gallery, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm, 118 Bosley Avenue, Suffolk. Ages 5-14. $5 (Members) / $8 (Non-Members). Come join the Suffolk Art League to make your New Year’s Eve party favors! They’ll be making several items for you to wear to celebrate the New Year in style. Instructors: Linda Bunch and Beth Netts. 757.925.0448 | www.suffolkartleague.org
Thu, Dec 31 - Noon Year’s Eve Party for Kids, James City County Library, 11:00 am, Kitzinger Community Room, 7770 Croaker Road, Williamsburg. Celebrate 2016 at the library with stories, crafts, dancing and a countdown to 12:00 pm. We’ll provide party hats, noisemakers and a balloon drop!
Thu, Dec 31 - Noon Year’s Eve Celebration, Virginia Living Museum, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm (museum open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm), 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News. The whole family can enjoy this seventh-annual daytime New Year’s celebration at the Virginia Living Museum. This year’s event is space-themed as the museum turns back the clock to the 1960s Race for Space to launch a year-long 50th anniversary celebration. Dress as an astronaut or your favorite space alien. Enjoy NASA space exhibits and meet members of area Science Fiction groups. Make crafts, play games, enjoy fun activities. Count down to the New Year at noon and help us bury a time capsule at 1 pm. Included in museum admission.
Thu, Dec 31 - Noon Year’s Bash: Countdown to Noon, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, corner of High & Court Streets, Portsmouth. There is no better place for families to ring in the New Year. Countdown to noon with a glittery ball drop, and a toast to the New Year. Face painting, magic, and balloon-making will be held in the Art Annex prior to the countdown, along with a photo booth and refreshments. After the “Noon Year” has arrived, kids can create their own fireworks by walking on the “carpet of bubbles’ that pop underfoot. Families can enjoy these New Year’s festivities - all well before bedtime. For more information, please call 757-393-8543.
Thu, Dec 31 - First Night Greater Williamsburg, 1:00 pm to Midnight, throughout the City and on the campus of the College of William & Mary, Williamsburg. First Night of Williamsburg is a family-oriented, non-alcoholic New Year’s Eve celebration of the performing arts presented throughout the City. 21 Years of Memories & Entertainment. Enjoy the area’s finest professional entertainers including singers, instrumentalists, magicians, storytellers, puppeteers, jugglers, clowns, bands, a Big Band orchestra and more! A variety of music is featured, including classical, shag, blues, R&B, Broadway, jazz, country, blue grass, folk and patriotic. A children’s show begins at 3 pm and ends at 7:30 pm. Admission buttons are available at 20 retailers or may be ordered online. Buttons ordered online will not be shipped; they may be picked up at Sadler Center, William & Mary Campus. http://www.americantowns.com/va/williamsburg/organization/first-night-williamsburg
Thu, Dec 31 - Last Night on the Town, Virginia Beach Town Center, 2:00 pm - Midnight, Fountain Plaza, Central Park Ave., Virginia Beach. Virginia Beach will once again celebrate the arrival of the New Year with a festive "Last Night on the Town” New Year’s Eve event, hosted by the Central Business District Association. The 3rd Annual Last Night On The Town begins with a family-friendly celebration at Pembroke Mall, then continues right through the night with entertainment at Town Center, culminating with a live performance by this year’s headline band: Smash Mouth! - See more at: http://www.beachstreetusa.com/last-night-town-1#sthash.t4UJB4Zw.dpuf
Thu, Dec 31 - Annual Olde Towne Scottish Walk, 3:30 pm, at Queen and Washington Streets, Olde Towne Portsmouth. The Olde Towne Scottish Walk is modeled after Scotland’s Hogmanay Festival, a day when townspeople honor their community and merchant’s, wishing all the best luck and prosperity in the coming year. A procession of local family, friends, and visitors will be led by bagpipe-and-drum music down Queen and Washington Streets to High Street Landing for a flag raising ceremony that honors George Washington’s raising of the first flag, The Grand Union.
Thu, Dec 31 - Harbor Lights Lighted Boat Competition, Tidewater Yacht & Ocean Marine, 8:00 pm, Downtown Portsmouth. For more information please contact Susan Heeley 757-650-3052.
Thu, Dec 31 - New Year’s Eve Celebration Downtown Hampton Block Party, 9:00 pm - 12:30 am, E. Queens Way, Hampton. The Block Party is continuing its new tradition. At Midnight, for the second year, we will be dropping a lit over-sized crab pot from the top of the Old Point National Bank. There will be live entertainment, fire barrels, food vendors and your favorite adult beverages. Downtown Hampton has over eight restaurants and bars open with no cover during this New Year’s Eve celebration. Also, one block away is the Crowne Plaza with a New Year’s Eve Block Party Special rate.
Thu, Dec 31 - First Night Greater Williamsburg, Grand Finale and Fireworks, Zable Stadium, 11:30 pm, 100 Stadium Drive, Williamsburg. Join us for the annual Finale of Fireworks at midnight.
Fri, Jan 1 - Hair of The DoG 5K, Merchants’ Square, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, Duke of Gloucester St., Williamsburg. Start the year off right by joining the folks at the DoG Street Pub for their inaugural New Year’s Day “Hair of The DoG” 5K in downtown Williamsburg! Wear your tuxes, gowns or pajamas - whatever works to get 2016 started on the right foot! The 5K starts at 10 am, and the Kids Fun Run starts at 11:30 am. http://www.hairofthedog.mettleevents.com
Fri, Jan 1 - Start Your New Year With Art, Chrysler Museum of Art, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. The Chrysler Museum will be open on New Year’s Day from 10 am to 5 pm. Come start a new holiday tradition!
Fri, Jan 1 - First Day Hike at York River State Park, 11:00 am - 3:00 pm, 9801 York River Park Road, Williamsburg. We will begin the day with a welcome to the New Year for all the hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. We will kick off the New Year with a trek to a distant, hidden gem in the park. The Pamunkey Overlook is at the bottom of a steep bluff along the York River. We will cover a little over 4 miles. Bring water and a lunch/snack and be prepared to pack in/pack out. Much of the terrain is flat. But, the hill leading to the overlook is steep. Dogs on leashes are welcome. http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/park-event-info.shtml?id=YR160001-00
Fri, Jan 1 - Garden 2.016 Fun Run, Norfolk Botanical Garden, 4 - 7:00 pm, 6700 Azalea Garden Rd., Norfolk. Kick off the New Year in a fun, healthy way. Run through 2.016 miles of spectacular light displays in the most beautiful place in Hampton Roads-Norfolk Botanical Garden! Last year more than 600 runners and their families enjoyed the Dominion Garden of Lights annual light show extravaganza while starting off the New Year on the right foot-and the left! The Garden 2.016 Fun Run is a fundraising event that helps support Norfolk Botanical Garden programs. This event is rain or shine. No refunds or exchanges. http://norfolkbotanicalgarden.org/events/garden-2-016-fun-run/
Fri/Sat, Jan 1/2 - Suffolk Friends of the Library Book Sale, Friends of the Library Building, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, 300 Carolina Road, Suffolk. Open to the Public. The Friends of the Library hold a monthly book sale, the revenue of which is used to support library programs. Peruse thousands of used books, magazines, movies and more. Prices: Paperbacks (Fiction) - $0.50 per inch, Softcovers - $0.50, Hardcovers - $1.00, Children’s - $0.50 per inch, DVDs - $2.00, Music CDs - $1.00, Audio Books on CD - $2.00, Audio Books on Cassette - $1.00. Other items specially priced. 757.514.1024 | www.suffolkpubliclibrary.com/about/friends-of-the-library/
Sat, Jan 2 - Winter Waterfowl Walks, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, 9:00 am, 4005 Sandpiper Rd., Virginia Beach. Call to reserve binoculars, 301-7329 ext 152.
Sat, Jan 2 - Fly Fishing at Northwest River Park, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1733 Indian Creek Road, Chesapeake. Get hooked on fly fishing at this informative and hands-on seminar at Northwest River Park. The Bill Wills Southeast Chapter of Trout Unlimited will introduce you to the sport, gear and techniques that you’ll need to get into the sport. It all starts with an overview of the sport, gear and terminology lead by expert anglers from the club. Afterwards, grab your rod or borrow a loaner to get hands-on instruction and advice on perfecting your casting skills. You can also learn to tie a fly with supplies and expertise from members of the club. Adults and youth with adult supervision are welcome to attend. Please RSVP at 757-421-7151
Sat, Jan 2 - Olde Towne Portsmouth Antiques to Flea Market, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Middle Street Garage, 441 Middle Street, Portsmouth. The Olde Towne Antiques to Flea Market is conveniently located in the Middle Street Garage at the corner of Middle & London Streets and is held year round, rain or shine on the first Saturday of each month. Gates open at 10 am and close at 2 pm. Always Free Admission & Free Parking! Call 757-339-1876 for additional information.
Sat, Jan 2 - Studio Ghibli Anime Marathon, Williamsburg Main Library, 10:00 am, Theatre, 515 Scotland Street, Williamsburg. Join us for a marathon of anime films from the acclaimed Studio Ghibli. Call 259-4050 for more information about the films, ratings, and show times.
Sat, Jan 2 - Twelfth Night, Francis Land House, 5 - 9:00 pm, 3133 Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach. Twelfth Night marks the end of the Christmas season, and the 30th annual event at the Francis Land House will be the best one yet. The evening will be hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Land with music by the Itinerant Band. Traditional Twelfth Night cake and other 18th century-inspired foods will be served in the dining room, and guests will enjoy historical entertainment in the parlor before tossing greens on the bonfire for good luck in the New Year. Tickets are $12 per person and must be purchased in advance at the Francis Land House. http://www.museumsvb.org/
Sat, Jan 2 - Skywatch at Northwest River Park, Sunset - 9:00 pm, 1733 Indian Creek Road, Chesapeake. Free and Open to the Public. Join Back Bay Amateur Astronomers (BBAA) as they bring their scopes and expertise to bear on the Galaxy weather permitting at the Equestrian Area at Northwest River Park. Several large telescopes are set-up and guests get a tour of the night sky, while learning about telescopes and astronomy. The event begins around sunset and ends at 11:00 pm. Call (757) 421-7151 to confirm.
Sat/Sun, Jan 2/3 - Free Admission Weekend, Peninsula Fine Arts Center, 101 Museum Drive, Newport News. Enjoy free admission to the Peninsula Fine Art Center!
Sun, Jan 3 - Bird Walks, Newport News Park, 7:00 am, 13560 Jefferson Avenue, Newport News. The Hampton Roads Bird Club has monitored the bird population of Newport News Park since 1965. Join club volunteers in the Picnic Area I parking lot every first and third Sunday of the month for some early morning birding. Be prepared to car pool to several areas in the park. Beginners are welcome. Binoculars and field guides are recommended. Free. 757-886-7912
Sun, Jan 3 - Winter Tram Tours, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, 1 - 4:30 pm, 4005 Sandpiper Rd., Virginia Beach. Join refuge and park staff for a scenic ride while observing wintering waterfowl and other native wildlife while learning about the history of the area. Tours travel through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, into False Cape State Park and include a one mile hike (round-trip) to the Wash Woods cemetery site. Registration required, call 426-7128. Cost: $8/person. Trams are open air vehicles, Please dress warmly.
Mon, Jan 4 - The Rise of Professional Baseball on the Virginia Peninsula, Hampton History Museum, 7:00 pm, 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton. Join Attorney Frank Edgar, Jr., and Henry Morgan, owner of the Peninsula Pilots baseball team as they discuss the history of America’s favorite pastime in our area. Free to museum members, $5 for non-members. 757-727-1610
Tue, Jan 5 - The Art of Yoga, Chrysler Museum of Art, 8:45 am, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Have you ever tried the warrior pose in a room full of Baroque Paintings? Join our resident Yogi, Tenesha Bazemore, for yoga classes in a beautiful setting. Her teaching is appropriate for all skill levels. Bring your own mat and wear comfortable clothing. Cost: $5 per session for Museum Members, $10 all others. Save your space at reservations.chrysler.org. Sessions will run from 8:45-9:45 am every Tuesday.
Tue, Jan 5 - “Dance Around The World” Presented by Ramzi & Company, Williamsburg Main Library, 1:00 pm, Theatre, 515 Scotland Street, Williamsburg. Internationally renowned world dance artist Ramzi will perform dances from cultures throughout the world in this geographical exploration. The program is free. Recommended for school aged children.
Tue, Jan 5 - “Illustrating the Flora of Virginia” Lecture, Jamestown Settlement, 4:30 pm, the Robins Foundation Theater, 2110 Jamestown Road, Route 31 S., Williamsburg. Speaker Lara Call Gastinger is lead illustrator of Flora of Virginia, an illustrated catalog of more than 3,000 plant species. The lecture is the second in a series of public programs presented in conjunction with “Clayton & Catesby: Botanical Virginia,” an exhibit at Jamestown Settlement from December 5, 2015 to February 28, 2016.
Thu, Jan 7 - Thursday Film Series: “Little Foxes”, Williamsburg Main Library, 2:00 pm, Theatre, 515 Scotland Street, Williamsburg. Regina Giddens is a woman who will stop at nothing to outwit her brothers in running the family business, even if it means sacrificing the health of her husband or the love of her young daughter. 1941, 116 Min.
Thu, Jan 7 - Spring Lecture Series: The Underwater Photography of Liquid Light, The Mariners’ Museum and Park, 7:00 pm, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News. Cost: $5 for Non-Members. Free for Members. The Mariners’ Museum’s “Liquid Light” exhibition is a pioneering look at the world beneath the ocean. It would not have been possible without the efforts of world-renowned photography expert Jeanne Adams. Adams, the daughter-in-law of noted photographer Ansel Adams, is a strong advocate for the power of the photograph in telling nature’s stories. Her relationships with underwater photographers are helping to bring this beautiful, emerging art form into the global spotlight. Get an insider’s perspective of the making of Liquid Light from Adams in this presentation.
Fri, Jan 8 - Friday Fido Fun Days in January, Norfolk Botanical Garden, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 6700 Azalea Garden Rd., Norfolk. Fridays 8 & 15 Jan. Spend two special days with “FIDO” at the Garden. Explore 12 miles of paved pathways with your canine companion. Garden Members: $5 per “Fido”, Not-Yet-Members $11 per person. For the safety and enjoyment of all of our human and canine guests, please keep Fido on a leash at all times. Please remember to bring a few doggie bags and clean up after Fido. If you forget, bags will be available at our front desk in Baker Hall. HAVE FUN AND ENJOY YOUR WALK!
Fri, Jan 8 - Ribbon Cutting for New Downtown Norfolk Transit Center, 11:00 am, 434 St. Pauls Blvd., Norfolk. The long-awaited bus terminal nears completion and HRT invites the public to check out the new facility. The Downtown Norfolk Transit Center has interior space for bus passengers to wait when it’s cold or raining, public restrooms, a customer service desk, a break room for street supervisors and operators.
Fri, Jan 8 - Opening Reception: BREAKING STEREOTYPES, A solo exhibition by Michael DiBari Jr., The Norfolk Transit Gallery, 4 - 6:00 pm, HRT Southside Operations Facility, Bldg. #4, 509 E. 18th St., Norfolk. “Breaking Stereotypes” is a solo exhibition of portraits of Hampton University students by Michael DiBari Jr. accompanied by individual quotes of their aspirations & hopes. Michael is a Scripps Howard Endowed Professor of The Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications at Hampton University. Exhibition: Jan 8 - Apr 22 / Gallery hrs: 8 am-5 pm M-F.
Fri, Jan 8 - Jackson Browne, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 8:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. Jackson Browne has written and performed some of the most literate and moving songs in popular music and has defined a genre of songwriting charged with honesty, emotion and personal politics.
Fri, Jan 8 - Phoebus Film Club Series: Push Comedy Theater ‘Mock-U-Cinema’: Plan 9 from Outer Space, The American Theatre, 8:00 pm, 125 E Mellen St., Hampton. We asked a group of hilarious improv masters to riff on one of the most terribly fantastic B-movies of all time, as it’s screened. Yes, our talented and snarky friends at Push Comedy Theater will provide the running commentary during the screening of this Ed Wood classic and will even get you involved.
Fri/Sat, Jan 8/9 - The Governor’s School for the Arts Orchestra Concert, TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, 7:30 pm, 340 Granby St., Norfolk. Music of Adams, Muczynski, and Brahms. GSA Visual Arts and Orchestra with Olti Myrtaj, piano. All seats general admission.
Fri-Sun, Jan 8-10 - The Peninsula Wrestling Association hosts the 36th Annual Virginia Duels Wrestling Tournament, the Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Dr., Hampton. The team advancement concept started in Hampton, Virginia with the Virginia Duels in 1981 and is now used by Virginia and many other states to determine the best high school team in the state. The Virginia Duels Wrestling Tournament is the largest college and high school tournament in the world. For more information, visit http://www.virginiaduals.org
Fri-Sun, Jan 8-10 - 2016 Hampton Roads International Auto Show, Virginia Beach Convention Center, Fri/Sat 10:00 am - 10:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, 1000 19th St., Virginia Beach. The largest new vehicle show in Virginia, put on by HRADA to educate the public about everything that’s new and exciting in the world of automotive. The show occupies every inch of VBCC floor space and outside displays to accommodate all the factories inventories. Virtually every car and truck manufacturer has exhibition space, and every HRADA dealer member’s best sales staff are on hand to answer the public’s questions. What makes HRADA’s show unique is that it’s not a selling event. In fact, there are no sales negotiations within the VBCC. The public sees all the makes and models in one climate-controlled location, without any pressure to buy. http://www.hamptonroadsautoshow.com/
Fri, Jan 8 thru Jan 31 - The Little Theatre of Norfolk: “The Women”, by Clare Boothe Luce, 801 Claremont Ave., Norfolk. In this lighter comedy, Mary Haines is a wealthy and happily married socialite. That is, until she discovers her husband is having an affair. Mary takes her mother's advice and ignores the infidelity, hoping it will blow over; but her friend (and poisonous gossip) Sylvia Fowler, turns it into a front-page scandal. http://www.ltnonline.org/Home
Fri, Jan 8 thru Jan 31 - the Generic Theater: “Five Guys Named Moe”, Book by Clarke Peters, Music/lyrics by Louis Jordan, 215 St. Paul’s Blvd., Norfolk. Directed by Jeannette Rainey. Ain’t nobody here but us chickens! Nomax, lovelorn and broke, is visited by five guys with a common moniker and a shared enthusiasm for the music of Louis Jordan to lift his spirits in this rollicking revue of harmony and happiness. http://www.generictheater.org/
Sat, Jan 9 - Early Bird Walk, Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, 8 - 10:00 am, 4510 Twin Pines Rd., Portsmouth. Join local birding enthusiasts to spot local and migratory birds at Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve. Free and open to all. For more information please call 757-686-8684. www.hofflercreek.org
Sat, Jan 9 - Winter Waterfowl Walks, Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, 9:00 am, 4005 Sandpiper Rd., Virginia Beach. Call to reserve binoculars, 301-7329 ext 152.
Sat, Jan 9 - 2016 Tidewater Striders Distance Series Race #1, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, 9:00 am, 1200 Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Chesapeake. Formal training run or informal race with a party 6-10-12 miles or 10-15-20 miles. Great way to work up for Shamrock! Participate in all 3 distance series events for one great price or sign up for individual events, but don’t miss out on all the fun! http://www.raceit.com/search/event.aspx?id=35055
Sat, Jan 9 - Forestry Stewardship Corps, Paradise Creek Nature Park, 10:00 am - Noon, 1141 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth. Help target invasive plants and rejuvenate the forest of Paradise Creek Nature Park. Invasive plants impact the health of the forest by killing off natives, changing the habitat and affecting the food chain. Learn how to identify and remove these plants and what you can do at home to keep them away and restore habitat to your own backyard. All ages allowed with adult supervision for those under 18. Free - Registration is required. For more information please call 757-399-7487 or visit http://www.paradisecreeknaturepark.com
Sat, Jan 9 - Volunteer Work Day, Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, 4510 Twin Pines Rd., Portsmouth. Every bit of help goes a long way when you help maintain the trails at Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve. For more information please call 757-686-8684. www.hofflercreek.org
Sat, Jan 9 - 2nd Saturday Family Event: Virginia Indians, Then & Now, Hampton History Museum, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton. Drop in anytime between 11 am and 2 pm for free family fun! Through fun hands-on activities, creative presentations and historical displays, families can learn more about the past and present lives of Virginia Native Americans. Make wampum, meet members of the Pamunkey Indian Pottery Guild and learn about their tribe’s history and life today. 757-727-1610
Sat, Jan 9 - Ranger Walk with Organic Hot Chocolate, Paradise Creek Nature Park, 2 - 3:00 pm, 1141 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth. Join our Education Ranger for a behind the scenes tour of the park in winter with hot chocolate in your hand. Learn insider facts, bring your binoculars to spy on winter wildlife and have your nature questions answered by our ranger. Suitable for adults and children. Free, but registration is required. For more information or to register please call 757-399-7487 or visit http://www.paradisecreeknaturepark.com
Sat, Jan 9 - Civil War Lecture: Characteristics of a Confederate Ironclad, The Mariners’ Museum and Park, 2:30 - 3:30 pm, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News. Confederate Secretary of the Navy Stephen Russell Mallory recognized from the war’s onset that the South required ironclads for port defense to maintain the cotton-for-cannon trade with Europe. Confederate shipbuilders exhibited great creativity, resourcefulness and resolve in order to construct the first ironclad vessels. They focused on casemated gun decks, use of 2 rifled pivot guns, a shallow draft, and almost always included a ram on the ship’s bow. Over 30 ironclads were laid down; yet only 23 were in active service.
Sat, Jan 9 - Joe Bonamassa, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 8:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. Bonamassa promises an incredibly special acoustic evening of extraordinary music and new arrangements of favorite songs. He will be joined by an all-star ensemble of world-class musicians including the acclaimed Chinese cellist and erhuist Tina Guo, whose repertoire stretches from classical to heavy metal; and Hossam Ramzy, the Egyptian percussionist and composer, who has performed on dozens of film soundtracks and records, and was the percussionist on Jimmy Page and Robert Plant’s No Quarter: Unledded Tour.
Sat, Jan 9 - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 8:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Under the baton of guest conductor and violin soloist Pinchas Zukerman (a phenomenon in the world of music for over four decades noted for his musical genius, prodigious technique and unwavering artistic standards), the Royal Philharmonic has quickly become the leading London orchestra and enjoys an international reputation for bringing audiences worldwide first-class performances and the highest possible standards of music-making across a diverse range of musical repertoire.
Sat/Sun, Jan 9/10 - C&E Gun Show, Scope Arena, Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, 201 East Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk. C&E Gun Shows is dedicated to producing the most professional, safest and ethical gun shows in the country. C&E strives to provide their patrons with the best available selection of firearms, ammo, knives and related merchandise. http://www.cegunshows.com/
Sat/Sun, Jan 9/10 - Virginia Hot Rod & Custom Car Show, Hampton Roads Convention Center, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. Hampton’s biggest Classic Car Show with entertainment that the whole family will enjoy. In addition to the automotive stars, a pin-up girl contest will take place on Saturday, Jan. 9, 2- 4 p.m. Live performances by Mason Brown and the Shiners will provide great tunes all show long. Other highlights include music, DJs, awards, free giveaways, face-painting, and more! http://www.vacarshow.com/
Sat/Sun, Jan 9/10 - Legends of the Night Sky: Perseus and Andromeda, Virginia Living Museum Planetarium, 12:30 pm, 524 J. Clyde Morris Boulevard, Newport News. The sky at night holds fascination for people of all ages. Join us in the Abbitt Planetarium for a look into the night sky and a fascinating retelling one of the classic Greek legends surrounding the constellations that can be found there. Perseus, one of the greatest heroes of Greek mythology, rescued the Ethiopian princess Andromeda from the sea monster. Children and adults alike will enjoy this delightful program. VLM members free, non-members $4 plus Museum admission.
Sun, Jan 10 - Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation Open House, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm. We’re kicking off our department’s 60th anniversary during our Recreation Center Open House. For one day only, new and expired members can purchase an annual adult or senior resident membership for just $60*! In addition to free access to all Virginia Beach Recreation Centers, we’re offering exciting activities for all ages. Bayside Recreation Center, Bow Creek Recreation Center, Great Neck Recreation Center, Princess Anne Recreation Center, Seatack Recreation Center, Williams Farm Recreation Center
Sun, Jan 10 - Mark Rothko Lecture and Book Signing with Annie Cohen-Solal, The Chrysler Museum of Art, 2:00 pm, One Memorial Pl., Norfolk. Modern art historian-biographer Annie Cohen-Solal describes the impact of Mark Rothko’s insights as an outsider - immigrant, artist, and Jew - on the evolution of his groundbreaking style and on his concept of art as an experience in the Houston chapel that bear his name.
Sun, Jan 10 - Children’s Theatre of Hampton Roads: “The Pollution Solution”, The Barry Robinson Theater and Fine Arts Center, 2:00 pm, 443 Kempsville Rd., Norfolk. Our favorite detective, Christie, follows a set of clues that lead her on a path about the water, journey of water, pollution, water conservation, and more importantly, what one person can do to change things for the better. A crazy cast of characters always seem to show up when Christie is on the case; so be prepared for a fun, exciting, and (don’t tell anyone) educational mystery! http://www.childrenstheatreofhamptonroads.org/
Sun, Jan 10 - Tom Euler and Friends: An Emerging Artist Celebration, The American Theatre, 3:00 pm, 125 E. Mellen St., Hampton. As the 2015 Sea Level Singer/Songwriter Festival’s Emerging Artist Contest (EAC) winner, Tom Euler will be joined by fellow finalists Holly Bishop and Mike Lawson, members of the Tom Euler Trio and Bobby Blackhat Blues Band, and Rich Ridolfino for a celebratory afternoon featuring award-winning original songs, piping hot blues and rock 'n roll.
Mon, Jan 11 - Ann Dearsley Vernon - Celebrating a Life Well Lived, The Chrysler Museum of Art, 6 - 8:00 pm, One Memorial Pl., Norfolk. Please SHARE this event with those whose lives Ann touched. Please RSVP if attending, so we can best plan for this event. Please hold this date and time, more details will be posted as the date gets closer. https://www.facebook.com/events/1681601352053931/
Tue, Jan 12 - The Art of Yoga, Chrysler Museum of Art, 8:45 am, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Have you ever tried the warrior pose in a room full of Baroque Paintings? Join our resident Yogi, Tenesha Bazemore, for yoga classes in a beautiful setting. Her teaching is appropriate for all skill levels. Bring your own mat and wear comfortable clothing. Cost: $5 per session for Museum Members, $10 all others. Save your space at reservations.chrysler.org. Sessions will run from 8:45-9:45 am every Tuesday.
Tue, Jan 12 - Second Tuesday Forum: “NASA and the Journey to Mars”, Commodore Theater, Noon (doors open 11 am), 421 High St, Portsmouth. Join Dr. Phillip A. Williams, Research Physicist from NASA Langley Research Center, discuss NASA and the Journey to Mars. Sponsored by the Portsmouth Public Library and funded by grants from the Portsmouth Public Library Foundation, Friends of the Library, Portsmouth General Hospital Foundation, The City of Portsmouth and the Portsmouth Museum and Fine Art Commission. All forums are free and open to the public, reservations are not needed. Complimentary beverages are provided by the Commodore Theater and lunch may be ordered from their regular menu. For more information please call 757-393-8759.
Tue, Jan 12 - Talks@2: Cartoons & Comics During WWII, Williamsburg Main Library, 2:00 pm, Schell Room, 515 Scotland Street, Williamsburg. From chronicling the everyday experiences of soldiers to boosting the spirits of those back home, learn how cartoons & comics played an important role during WWII.
Tue, Jan 12 - Master Gardener’s Series: New Plants, Churchland Branch Library, 6:30 - 7:30 pm, 4934 High St. W, Portsmouth. Free gardening lecture on starting from seeds. Virginia Cooperative Extension/Portsmouth Master Gardner. For more information please call (757) 393-5197.
Wed, Jan 13 - Literary High Tea at Watermen’s Museum, 3 - 5:00 pm, 309 Water Street, Yorktown. Enjoy Carrot Tree’s delightful high tea at the Waterman’s Museum featuring; Silk Sachet Teas; Scones & Biscuits; Petite Quiche; Tea Sandwiches; Dessert Plates, and more. Our guest, Brad Parks, a mystery writer and winner of the Shamus, Nero and Lefty Awards. Reservations recommended. Seating is limited. 757-988-1999
Wed, Jan 13 - “Out of the Box” Emerging Artist Series: 'Broke Royals’, 6 - 9:00 pm, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 8:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. Make your New Year’s resolution to support local artists! The Sandler Center’s “Out of the Box” Emerging Artist Series taking place every Wednesday from January 13 - March 2, 2016 in the Miller Studio. This great after work event is in collaboration with Paul Shugrue from Out of the Box on 89.5 WHRV. It’s the perfect setting to meet-up with co-workers and friends to enjoy a night of music, food, and drinks. Admission is free and kicks off right at 6 until 9 pm. *Live Music begins at 7pm. *Standing room only.
Wed, Jan 13 - PBS television series 'Mercy Street’ FREE Screening, The Mariners’ Museum and Park, 6:30 pm, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News. Join us for a special screening of Mercy Street?! A new PBS original Civil War medical drama premiering on WHRO-TV Sunday, January 17 at 10 PM. The screening will be followed by a historical discussion led by John V. Quarstein, Director of the USS Monitor Center & Foundation. “Based on true stories, Mercy Street takes viewers behind the front lines of the Civil War and into the lives of a diverse cast of characters - doctors, nurses, contraband laborers and Southern loyalists - who intersect in the chaotic world of the Mansion House Hospital in Union-occupied Alexandria, Virginia.”
Wed, Jan 13 - Celtic Film Series: “Raining Stones”, Williamsburg Main Library, 7:00 pm, Theatre, 515 Scotland Street, Williamsburg. Bob (Bruce Jones) is a religious but poor man intent on earning enough cash to buy a new communion dress for his daughter. With his loyal sidekick, Tom (Ricky Tomlinson), Bob takes odd and sometimes ill-advised jobs, like building a fireplace and stealing sheep, which he thinks will provide some quick cash. But Bob’s bad luck follows him everywhere in this working-class town. When his van gets stolen, Bob makes a disastrous choice that has him risk everything he’s worked for and dreamed of. 1993, Rated R, 90 min.
Thu, Jan 14 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service, Y. H. Thomas Community Center, 8 - 10:00 am, 1300 Thomas St., Hampton. Peninsula Foster Grandparent program and the City of Hampton Citizens’ Unity Commission presents the 12th annual MLK Day of Service. This free event will include presentations from community leaders, local businesses interested in community causes, giveaways and complimentary breakfast and lunch. In keeping with the Day of Service theme, participants can donate to the “School Supply Replenishing” campaign. Now collecting backpacks, loose leaf or spiral notebook paper, pens, pencils, pocket folders, glue sticks, highlighters, hand-sanitizer and facial tissue. Registration required. 757-727-1452 | https://hamptonmarketing.wufoo.com/forms/mlk-jr-day-of-service-registration-form/
Thu, Jan 14 - Thursday Film Series: “Ladies in Retirement”, Williamsburg Main Library, 2:00 pm, Theatre, 515 Scotland Street, Williamsburg. A psychopathic companion-housekeeper strangles her employer, a retired actress, to prevent the institutionalization of the her two mentally ill sisters. Set in a lonely mansion on the Thames estuary. 1941, 92 Min.
Thu, Jan 14 - Opening Reception, “Down Home: Retrospective” Exhibit Featuring Winston Harris, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 5:30 - 7:30 pm, 110 W. Finney Avenue, Suffolk. Free and open to the public. Showcases artwork produced during different Artist-In-Residency Programs. The prints selected introduce traditional and non-traditional experimentation in contemporary printmaking produced in a two-dimensional and three-dimensional format. Open Jan 14 - Mar 3, 11 am - 4 pm. Tue-Sat. 757.923.2900 | www.SuffolkCenter.org
Thu, Jan 14 - Young Adult Author Visit: Alethea Kontis, James City County Library, 7:00 pm, Kitzinger Community Room, Williamsburg. Meet the best-selling fantasy author of the Woodcutter Sisters Trilogy, Trixter, & Tales from Arilland. A self-proclaimed “princess, fairy godmother, and geek,” Ms. Kontis will talk about her books and her writing, followed by a Q & A! Young aspiring writers especially encouraged to attend. Call 259-4050 to register for this all-ages, free event.
Thu, Jan 14 - Lewis Black: The Emperor’s New Clothes - The Naked Truth Tour, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 8:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. A Grammy Award-winning stand-up comedian, is one of the most prolific and popular performers working today. He executes a brilliant trifecta as stand-up comedian, actor and author.
Thu-Sat, Jan 14-16 - The Governor’s School for the Arts Winter Dance Concert, TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, 8:00 pm, 340 Granby St., Norfolk. All seats general admission.
FARMERS’ MARKETS
Five Points Community Farm Market, 2500 Church Street, Norfolk.
Hours: Thu/Fri 11 am to 7 pm, Sat 9 am to 5 pm, Sun 10 am to 3 pm.
The Five Points Community Farm Market is a project of the Five Points Partnership, a 501-c-3 non-profit formed in 2001. The Partnership is a grass-roots community organization based in the Norview section of Norfolk. The Farm Market began as a community project in 2002 in a vacant lot across from Norview Middle School, with volunteers selling Rodman’s peanuts and 3 small growers offering produce. We have been located on Church Street since May 3, 2008, and we continue to work to bring the city of Norfolk and surrounding cities fresh produce grown by local small farms, and we are always growing. Come on by and check us out! Located in the Farm Market is a unique collective of incubator businesses: Sabrosa Salsas, Seafood Cravers, Kombuchick Tea Bar & Microbrewery, Get Fresh Cafe, Diana Fields Bookstore, Whole-ly Rollers rolls, pies, cookies & more. 757-640-0300
The Virginia Beach Farmers Market, 3640 Dam Neck Road, Virginia Beach.
Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 5 pm, Sat 8:30 am to 4 pm, Sun 10 am to 4 pm.
The Virginia Beach Farmers Market is open year-round and features a variety of agriculturally inspired shops and related businesses that offer seasonal, fresh vegetables and fruit in addition to many other products. An organic grocery, butcher shop, seafood market, dairy and ice cream, florist, candy store, bakery, full-menu restaurant, wild bird store, and home and garden gift stores offer a unique and varied shopping experience. Farmer-to-you seasonal produce allow you to experience some of the best the agriculture community has to offer. Special events are held monthly at the Farmers Market, offering family experiences of the heritage of Agriculture. Friday evenings from April through October from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. 'country or bluegrass’ music is featured at the Friday Night Hoedowns. There is no admission but a blanket or chair is recommended. 757-385-4388
Every Sat - Shore Drive Farm market, 9:00 am - Noon, 2947 Shore Dr., Virginia Beach. Open all year. Bringing fresh, locally/regionally-sourced food to Shore Drive. Come eat breakfast from our prepared food vendors, buy some locally made gifts and shop for your weekly produce, meats, seafood and baked goods-savory and sweet. Halfway between the bridge and the Woods on Shore Drive. Across from Dish. Shoredrivefarmarket@gmail.com
Sat, Jan 16 - First Old Beach Farmers’ Market of 2016, 9:00 am until 12:00 noon, Croc’s 19th Street Bistro, Virginia Beach. Old Beach Farmers Market (OBFM) is a fresh outdoor marketplace in the heart of the resort area, just six blocks from the ocean and one block from the Virginia Beach Convention Center, in the parking lot of Croc’s 19th Street Bistro. We feature seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables, meats (pork, bison, beef, chicken, turkey, sausages, charcuterie), eggs, seafood, cheeses, a wide assortment of baked goods (biscuits, pies, cakes, brownies and cookies), artisanal breads, and savory foods from local chefs (pasta, sauces, salsas, salads, tamales), soap, and flowers. Walk over or ride a bike. Bring a reusable shopping bag. Come discover the taste of fresh, seasonal fare. | www.oldbeachfarmersmarket.com/
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