Local Tidewater Virginia Happenings

COMMUNITY EVENTS/FESTIVALS

Now thru Mar 29 - Winter Orchid Display 2015, Norfolk Botanical Gardens, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 6700 Azalea Garden Rd., Norfolk. Don't miss the opportunity to see beautiful blooming orchids in the Norfolk Botanical Garden Tropical House. Many of the orchids provided by the Tidewater Orchid Society, and Old Dominion University Arthur and Phyllis Kaplan Orchid Conservatory and Research Greenhouse. This winter exhibit is FREE with regular Garden admission.

Now thru May 25 - Adventures with Clifford the Big Red Dog, Children's Museum of Virginia, 221 High St., Portsmouth. Everyone's favorite big red dog is coming to Portsmouth! Visitors young and young at heart will recognize all the sites and characters in "Adventures with Clifford the Big Red Dog" based on PBS's hit series. From the Ferry and the Pier to Clifford and his dog house, visitors to Birdwell Island will enjoy all the sights and sounds in this exhibit. Targeted to children 2 - 8 year and their caregivers, the exhibit aims for immersion into the lives of Emily Elizabeth and Clifford while promoting Clifford's Big Ideas. These simple ideas include: Share, Play Fair, Have Respect, Work Together, Be Responsible, Be Truthful, Be Kind, Believe in Yourself, Be a Good Friend and Help Others. Join us on opening day for a Big Red Party, with Museum Members receiving the first chance to view the exhibit starting at 8 am.

Now thru Mar 8 - Hampton Restaurant Week. Celebrate the "Art of Culinary" in Hampton restaurants. Enjoy a 2-course lunch for $10 and/or a 3 course meal for either $20 or $30 at participating restaurants. Reservations are recommended but not mandatory. Participating Restaurants: The Grey Goose, Venture Kitchen & Bar, Marker 20, Regatta Grille, County Grill


Fri, Mar 6 - First Friday ViBe in the District, Virginia Beach Oceanfront district, 4 - 7:00 pm, Including MOCA's Satellite Gallery in Towne Pavilion II. The ViBe. Virginia Beach artisans and businesses... sharing our passion for arts and entertainment with our community. Every First Friday of the month!

Fri, Mar 6 - Coding: Artists and Their Creative DNA, Opening Reception, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, 5 - 8:00 pm, Corner of High & Court St, Downtown Portsmouth. Coding explores the act of creating and what inspires artists and themes in their work. From cultural influences to life experiences this exhibit introduces varied perspectives into the creative dialogue. Features artists include Maria Barbosa, Victor Epuk, David Keefe, Kay Walkingstick and more. 393-8543

Fri, Mar 6 - NATO Festival Wines of the World, Harrison Opera House, 5:30 - 8:30 pm, 160 East Virginia Beach Boulevard, Norfolk. Join the Norfolk NATO Festival for an elegant evening of Wine tasting, music and art at Wines of the World. Sample international wines from many of the NATO Countries and enjoy a fun evening with friends. Ticket prices includes unlimited tastings, heavy hors d'ouevres (catering by Omar's Carriage House) and a souvenir tasting glass. $30 in advance, $35 at the door, while supplies last. Revenue supports the education programs of the Norfolk NATO Festival, including the Model NATO Challenge Scholarship program. For more information, visitwww.natofestival.org/wines


Fri/Sat, Mar 6/7 - Friends of the Library Book Sale, Suffolk Friends of the Library Building, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, 300 Carolina Road, Suffolk. 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


Fri-Sun, Mar 6-8 - Mid-Atlantic Home & Garden Show 2015, Virginia Beach Convention Center, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm daily, 1000 19th St., Virginia Beach. Join the Tidewater Builders Association for this fantastic event, featuring an exciting line-up of celebrities and home and garden experts, offering gardening activities that offer something for everyone in the family. Refresh and renew the inside and outside of your home with ideas and inspiration from more than 200 exhibitors offering everything from flooring to roofing to everything in between - plus ways to save energy and improve your indoor air quality. Admission: Adults $10 Military $8 Seniors (62+) $8 Kids 12 and under Free. (757) 305-9029

Fri-Sun, Mar 6-8 - Annual Hampton Roads Tattoo Arts Festival, Hampton Roads Convention Center, Fri 12:00 pm - 12:00 am, Sat 10:00 am - 12:00 am, Sun 12 - 8:00 pm, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. Presented by Folk City Tattoo and Twisted Ink magazine, the Fourth Annual Hampton Roads Tattoo Festival will celebrate all aspects of the tattooing industry. During the event, interested attendees have the option of speaking with tattoo artists and having the work performed on-site. The cost of each tattoo is in addition to the entrance fee price and is negotiated between customer and artist. Hundreds of tattoo artists, tons of vendors, and live music/shows all weekend. Whether you want to get tattooed, do a little shopping, or just admire some of the best artists in the business, the Hampton Roads Tattoo Festival has something for just about everyone. Even the kids can enjoy face painting and temporary tattoos! **Admission at the door only!! $25 daily, $45 Weekend Pass, $35 Military Weekend Pass, 12 and under FREE. 757-484-1319

Fri-Sun, Mar 6-8 - 13th Annual Battle of Hampton Roads Weekend, The Mariners' Museum/USS Monitor Center, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News. The Annual Battle of Hampton Roads Weekend includes nationally renowned scholars, Civil War encampments, a variety of tours and historical events everyone will enjoy. Registration required for some events.


Downtown Portsmouth First Weekend Events:

Fri/Sat, Mar 6/7 - Friends of the Library Book Sale, Fri Noon - 6:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, basement of the Main Library, 601 Court Street, Portsmouth.

Fri, Mar 6 - Concert in the Courtyard: Free Music Series, Featuring Jimmy Masters Quartet with Justin Kauflin, 5 - 8:00 pm, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center and PortsEvents. Event will take place in the art Annex, next to the Gallery Shop, in case of rain. 393-8543

Sat, Mar 7 - Olde Towne Portsmouth Antiques to Flea Market, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, conveniently located in the Middle Street Garage at the corner of Middle & London Streets.  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, Mar 7 - Medical Mystery: Yellow Fever in 1855 Portsmouth, Portsmouth Naval Shipyard Museum, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Downtown Portsmouth waterfront. During the antebellum period of the 1800's, before pharmacies were available on every corner people often had to look to home remedies to keep in good health. During the Civil War diseases and infection were just as deadly as battle related injuries. Field surgeons and doctors began to understand and appreciate the value of medicine and good hygiene. Come and learn about the "aedis aegypti," yellow fever, spreading germs and historic homeopathy through hands on activities and crafts. Admission is free as part of our First weekends, First Saturdays programming series. 757-393-8591


Sat, Mar 7 - Great Dismal Swamp Safari, 9:30 - 1:30 pm, Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (off of White Marsh Road), Suffolk. The Great Dismal Swamp is anything but dismal. The narrated Swamp Safari, one of Suffolk's most popular attractions, fills up quickly. This four-hour tour is led by a biologist specializing is the unique habitat of the Great Dismal. Learn about the history, lore, vegetation and wildlife with this adventure that includes a brief walk to Lake Drummond. Sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. A small snack and beverage is provided. This tour is not recommended for very small children. Reservations are required and cancellations are expected no less than 48 hours prior to scheduled tour. Call the Suffolk Visitor Center at 757.514.4130 to reserve your spot.

Sat, Mar 7 - Guided Walking Tour of Historic Fort Huger, beginning at 10:00 am, located off Route 10 at 15080 Talcott Terrace (Follow the Civil War Trails signage), Smithfield. Visit this Civil War fort and learn the significance of this gateway to the Confederate capital. The Isle of Wight County Museum is pleased to offer several FREE guided walking tours of the county's historic sites and events throughout the year. Led by local historians and museum staff, the tours offer an in-depth look and a hands-on experience at these important and well-preserved properties. Reservations are not necessary. For further information call 757.357.0115

Sat, Mar 7 - Learn the Basics of Fly Fishing, Northwest River Park & Campground, 10:00 am - 1:00 pm, 1733 Indian Creek Road, Chesapeake. Learn about fly fishing at this FREE workshop hosted by the Bill Wills SE Virginia Chapter of Trout Unlimited. No experience necessary and no gear required. Learn about the basics of fly fishing equipment including rods, reels, line, terminal tackle and accessories. Club members will guide you through tying your first fly and offer instruction and hands-on practice casting. If you plan to fish afterwards please bring your fishing license with trout stamp with you to the park. Sponsored by: Bill Wills SE Virginia Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Chesapeake Parks, Recreation and Tourism, and the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. Advanced registration is required. (757) 421-7151

Sat, Mar 7 - Battle of Smithfield Guided Walking Tour, beginning at 2:00 pm, Isle of Wight County Museum, 103 Main Street, Downtown Smithfield. 2014 marked the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Smithfield. Meet at the museum for a lecture and a walk down Church Street as your guide details the events of this battle. Reservations are not necessary. For further information call 757.357.0115.

Sat, Mar 7 - Ranger Walk with FREE Native Seeds, Paradise Creek Nature Park, 2 - 3:00 pm, Portsmouth. Join our Education Ranger for a behind the scenes tour of the park in spring. Learn insider facts, bring your binoculars to spy on spring wildlife and have your nature questions answered by our ranger. Bring home native seeds to begin your own wildflower garden. Suitable for adults and children. This is a free event but registration is required please call 757-399-7487 or contact ssumoski@elizabethriver.org

Sat, Mar 7 - Suffolk Humane Society Night Out, Ruby Tuesday of Harbour View, 6249 College Drive, Suffolk. Gather your family and friends and join us for a Ruby Tuesday Give Back to the Community Event to benefit Suffolk Humane Society. All you have to do is to print the flyer and take it with you to the Ruby Tuesday on College Drive on March 7, 2015. Present it to the wait staff and SHS will receive 20% of the proceeds! Enjoy a great meal out for a great cause! www.suffolkhumanesociety.com

Sat, Mar 7 - Midnight in Paris, A Love Affair with Art: Gala Art Auction, d'Art Center, 6:00 pm, Selden Arcade, 208 E Main Street, Norfolk. The evening will be alive with the tastes, sights and sounds of Paris! Enjoy an open bar from 6-8PM, heavy hors d'oeuvres created by The Dancing Tomato, wine flowing at sponsored tables and strolling musicians. There are several ways you can participate in Midnight in Paris while at the same time supporting the unique programs of the d'ART Center. Remember, your contribution is tax deductible within the limits of the law. We hope we can count on you to join the fun and connect with the Arts in your community and The d'ART Center! For additional information about this event or the d'ART Center please call 757-625-4211 or email connect@d-artcenter.org

Sat, Mar 7 - Professional Bull Riders, Hampton Coliseum, 7:30 - 10:00 pm, 1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. Buckle Up! This is the stepping stone to the glitz and glamour of the elite Built Ford Tough Series, but there's nothing minor-league about it. These are young men dreaming of the big time. To make it, they have to get past the same monsters you see every week on national television, and superstar veterans looking to stand in their way. When you compete in the toughest 8 Seconds in Sports - the first step is just to stay alive. 757-838-4203 / http://www.hamptoncoliseum.org


Sat/Sun, Mar 7/8 - Free Weekend, Peninsula Fine Arts Center, Sat 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sun 1 to 5:00 pm, 101 Museum Drive, Newport News. FREE. Admission to PFAC is free for all on the first weekend of every month, thanks to the generosity of the Noland Memorial Foundation.


Sun, Mar 8 - 2nd Sundays Williamsburg, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, Merchants' Square, Williamsburg. Join us for 2nd Sunday Williamsburg Art & Music Festival. This week we're going GREEN for the 1st Festival of 2015, Just in time for St Patty's Day & Spring! Streets full of great artisans- including many Upcycled ones, Irish Dancers, Celtic Music...Mark your calendars, Folks!

Sun, Mar 8 - VOW Bridal Event, Hampton Roads Convention Center, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. More than 100 of Hampton Roads finest bridal vendors together in the Virginia Beach Convention Center's ball room. Couture runway fashion show, specialty workshops throughout the afternoon and giveaways. The pages of VOW Bride magazine will come to life as guest designers, wedding specialists and authors are a vital part of this year's show. An amazing couture runway show presenting stunning Designer gowns, tuxedos, flowers and special occasion fashions will inspire you.

Sun, Mar 8 - MOCA Family Fest, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 2 - 4:00 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. Fun for the whole family! MOCA hosts FREE Family Fests every other month. Enjoy hands-on art activities inspired by our exhibitions, refreshments, a gallery scavenger hunt and fun for the whole family!

Sun, Mar 8 - 2015 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Cheerleading Championship kick-off, 5:30 pm, NSU Echols Hall, Norfolk. The Cheerleading Championship begins at 5:30 p.m. and will be streamed live on MEACsports.com. The annual Cheerleading Championship ignites the week of events surrounding the annual Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament. The 2015 MEAC Men's and Women's Basketball Tournament tips-off March 9-14 at the Norfolk Scope Arena.


Mon, Mar 9 - Historic Suffolk Narrated Bus Tour, 2:00 pm, Suffolk Visitor Center, 524 North Main Street. See Suffolk through the eyes of years gone by. Suffolk's rich heritage dates back to the early 17th century, when Captain John Smith first encountered the Nansemond Indians on the Nansemond River. Even now, you can trace Suffolk's legacy through our historic homes and neighborhoods, churches and Virginia Civil War Trails. Guided by a Suffolk historian, you meet the people and places that made Suffolk the city it is today. Highlights of this windshield tour include Cedar Hill Cemetery, Riddick's Folly House Museum, Constant's Wharf, College Court and Suffolk's Historic Lakeside neighborhood. $8 Adults / $6 Seniors, Military and Children 9-12. 757.514.4130


Mon-Sat, Mar 9-14 - 2015 MEAC Basketball Tournament, Scope Arena, 201 East Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk. This year marks the 44th year of the tournament on the men's side and the 36th year for the women. http://www.meachoops.com/home/default/


Tue, Mar 10 - Yoga in the Galleries, Chrysler Museum of Art, 8:45 - 9:45 am, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Join Tenesha Bazemore for yoga classes in a beautiful setting. Suitable for all skill levels, and free for Museum Members, we'll do this every Tuesday morning in March.


Wed, Mar 11 - Great Dismal Swamp Safari, 9:30 am - 1:30 pm, Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (off of White Marsh Road), Suffolk. The Great Dismal Swamp is anything but dismal. The narrated Swamp Safari, one of Suffolk's most popular attractions, fills up quickly. This four-hour tour is led by a biologist specializing is the unique habitat of the Great Dismal. Learn about the history, lore, vegetation and wildlife with this adventure that includes a brief walk to Lake Drummond. Sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. A small snack and beverage is provided. This tour is not recommended for very small children. Reservations are required and cancellations are expected no less than 48 hours prior to scheduled tour. Call the Suffolk Visitor Center at 757.514.4130 to reserve your spot.

Wed, Mar 11 - Carrot Tree's Literary High Tea at the Watermen's Museum, 3 - 5:00 pm, 309 Water Street, Yorktown. This week learn about the History of the Yorktown Customs House. Enjoy Carrot Tree's delightful high tea featuring; Silk Sachet Teas; Scones & Biscuits; Petite Quiche; Tea Sandwiches; Dessert Plates, and more.  Reservations recommended. Seating is limited. Call for pricing and more information. 757-988-1999


Fri, Mar 13 - AcquaFire 2015, Norfolk Botanical Gardens, 6 - 9:00 pm, 6700 Azalea Garden Rd., Norfolk. Join Norfolk Botanical Garden as we present AcquaFire! Come to a 'HOT' Nighttime Event on Friday, March 13. Enjoy live acoustic music by David Welsh & Mack Against the Wall as fire blazes in the Garden's Renaissance Pond. Bring your family, friends, lawn chairs and blankets. Food, Beer and Wine available for purchase. Adults $12.00, NBG Members $10.00, Children 12 and under are free! Pre-sale tickets available until March, 11, 2015.  After March 11, 2015, tickets will be sold at the door only. Food and drinks available for purchase. No coolers please. You are encouraged to bring a flashlight or battery operated lantern.

Fri, Mar 13 - Shamrockin' in Ghent, 6 - 10:00 pm, Between Gates and Shirley Avenues, on Colley Avenue, Norfolk. We block off Colley Avenue (between Shirley and Gates Avenues) so you and all your friends and neighbors can come out and help Hope House celebrate all things Irish. We will have live music by the Deloreans, the Fighting Jamesons, and Newport News Pipes and Drums, as well as festive food and libations-and there isn't even an admission fee! Yes, you read that right, Shamrockin' in Ghent is FREE and open to the public. But wait, there's more! ALL beer proceeds from Shamrockin' in Ghent benefit Hope House Foundation!

Fri, Mar 13 - Night Hike at Chesapeake Arboretum, 7 - 9:00 pm, 624 Oak Grove Road, Chesapeake. Explore the Chesapeake Arboretum in the dark of the night and learn how nocturnal wildlife have adapted to thrive. Enjoy a short interpretive program next to the red barn and then head out for a short guided hike (about 2 miles). Bring a flash light. Please RSVP to (757) 421-7151. This event is weather dependent. Program will be canceled for unfavorable conditions. Those that RSVP will receive a phone call 24 hours prior if the hike is canceled.

Fri, Mar 13 - MOCA Teen Takeover Night, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 7 - 9:00 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. Hampton Roads teens take over the MOCA for an evening extravaganza of art, music, mocktails, free eats, and live music by Latin for Beginners . Come celebrate surf and skate culture and the DIY ethic with activities inspired by MOCA's current exhibition Ryan McGinness: Studio Visit. Acclaimed artist McGinness is a Virginia Beach native whose art has deep roots that extend into the influences on his childhood Teen Takeover is a free event exclusively for teens in middle and high school, hosted by students from Virginia Beach schools. For additional information, call 757-425-0000 ext. 329


Fri/Sat, Mar 13/14 - Historic Suffolk Narrated Bus Tour, 2:00 pm, Suffolk Visitor Center, 524 North Main Street. See Suffolk through the eyes of years gone by. Suffolk's rich heritage dates back to the early 17th century, when Captain John Smith first encountered the Nansemond Indians on the Nansemond River. Even now, you can trace Suffolk's legacy through our historic homes and neighborhoods, churches and Virginia Civil War Trails. Guided by a Suffolk historian, you meet the people and places that made Suffolk the city it is today. Highlights of this windshield tour include Cedar Hill Cemetery, Riddick's Folly House Museum, Constant's Wharf, College Court and Suffolk's Historic Lakeside neighborhood. $8 Adults / $6 Seniors, Military and Children 9-12. 757.514.4130

Fri/Sat, Mar 13/14 - History Days in Downtown Suffolk, 10:00 am-5:00 pm, Suffolk Visitor Center, 524 North Main Street. History is on the move in Virginia as the Civil War 150 HistoryMobile rolls into Suffolk for a two day visit. The exhibit, an initiative of the Virginia Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War Commission, will be located at the Suffolk Visitor Center, 524 North Main Street. Admission to the HistoryMobile is free and open to the public. These "history days" are presented by the Suffolk Division of Tourism partnering with the Suffolk Public Library, Riddick's Folly House Museum and the Hilton Garden Inn Riverfront. In addition to the HistoryMobile exhibit, the event also includes tours and a living history reenactment at Riddick's Folly House Museum; guided tours of historic Downtown Suffolk and the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge; and a genealogy workshop and a history presentation. Stop by the Historic Seaboard Station Railroad Museum to browse the large selection of Historical Society publications and learn about the importance and history of railroads in Suffolk while viewing the HO scale railroad model of 1907 Suffolk.
Fri/Sat, Mar 13/14 - Legends of Main Street: A Suffolk Ghost Walk, Suffolk Visitor Center, 6:00 pm, 524 North Main Street. A hair-raising encounter with the spirited side of Suffolk. Follow a costumed guide through the shadows of historic Main Street discovering stories, legends and "unexplained occurrences" by lantern light. Tales of unsolved mysteries and unresolved affairs abound throughout Suffolk's historically hip Ghost Walk. Reservations Required.  757.514.4130


Fri-Sun, Mar 13-15 - 11th Annual Virginia RV Show, Hampton Roads Convention Center, Fri 12 - 8:00 pm, Sat 10:00 am - 8:00 pm, Sun 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, 1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. The Virginia RV Show is back in 2015 with great deals on motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels! Now is the time to plan your family's summer fun. Stock up on all the essentials and gather great ideas for your next RV vacation. Come ready to shop the newest in accessories for RVs, as well as campgrounds. Insurance and financing will also be available on site. Plus, attend daily seminars to pick up some new info and tips to help with your purchase. Everything you need for your outdoor adventure is at the Virginia RV Show!


Sat, Mar 14 - Suffolk Restaurant Week: A Culinary Showcase, Eateries City-wide. As Suffolk's premier culinary celebration, Suffolk Restaurant Week was launched by Suffolk Tourism to showcase the array of exceptional dishes prepared by the best chefs in Suffolk. This popular culinary tradition is held twice annually-the spring showcase in March and the fall encore in November, featuring the best restaurants citywide and  offering fixed-price, three-course meals. There are no passes to buy, coupons to carry or cards to punch. Food lovers may simply dine at as many participating restaurants as they like during Suffolk Restaurant Week, explore new dining opportunities or enjoy old favorites. 757.514.4130 / www.Suffolk-Fun.com/restaurantweek

Sat, Mar 14 - 2nd Saturday Hampton Arts Walk, Downtown and Phoebus Hampton. Join us for a day of creative people doing creative things in our community.  This monthly, free, self-guided walking tour event runs throughout Downtown Hampton and partners local businesses with artists working in all mediums.  A number of events will be held inside our business, attractions, and in the public realm.  2nd Saturday's occur the second Saturday of each month. 757-727-1271

Sat, Mar 14 - GBFA Fishing Flea Market, Hickory Ruritan Club, 8:00 am - 2:00 pm, 2752 S Battlefield Boulevard, Chesapeake. Come out for the 6th Annual GBFA Fishing Flea Market! Come buy, swap, meet, greet and eat. This rain or shine event will host vendors featuring custom lures, freshwater and saltwater gear, new & used rods and reels, and a variety of boats and trailers. Refreshments available for purchase. Admission: $3 for adults; 12 and under free. (757) 287-0330

Sat, Mar 14 - Family Day, Chrysler Museum of Art, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Our Spring Family Day is rated E For Everyone. Dress up as your favorite video game character to compete in our Cosplay Contest judged by Dave & Buster's. Limber up those thumbs and beat your high score during the GameStop video game competition. Learn more about serious gaming at The Alien Angel Podcast Network's panel discussion. Take a selfie with Mario, Luigi, or Abraham Lincoln. Add in free activities for children, including face painting, balloon artistry, and crayon portraits, and our Spring Family Day offers something for everyone!

Sat, Mar 14 - Celebrate National AG Day, Virginia Beach Farmers Market, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, 3640 Dam Neck Road, Virginia Beach. Celebrate National AG Day with live animals, AGtivities & More!!!! FarmMrkt@vbgov.com / (757) 385-4388

Sat, Mar 14 - Community Day, The Mariners' Museum/USS Monitor Center, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News. Take the family on a voyage of exploration to The Mariners' Museum. Admission is only $5 per person for residents of Hampton Roads and kids 3 and under are free during The Mariners' Community Day. Explore the USS Monitor Center, handcrafted ship models, maritime paintings, rare figureheads, small craft from around the world and much more. This discounted admission price is only available during Community Day and no other discounts apply. For more information: MarinersMuseum.org or call (757)596-2222.

Sat, Mar 14 - Celebration of the Arts, Children's Museum of Virginia, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, 221 High St., Portsmouth. A day full of fun, hands on educational and entertaining performances. Includes two Teacher Workshops - Interactive Learning through the Arts - offering educators the opportunity to learn and participate in arts-in-education models and techniques. Presented by Young Audiences of Virginia & Children's Museum of Virginia. For more information please call 757-393-5258 or visit www.childrensmuseumva.com

Sat, Mar 14 - 2nd Saturday Family Event: Minecraft Construction Kids! Hampton History Museum, 11:00 am - 2:00 pm, 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton. Come learn in creative mode about the real world applications of construction by participating in Minecraft and construction-themed activities such as how the first English settlers used wattle and daub to make structures, decorate a stained glass window, and take on our larger project of creating a model section of the city of Hampton with recycled materials. Family activities are free of charge and take place in the museum's Great Hall and courtyard. 757-727-1610

Sat, Mar 14 - Archery Demo Day, Great Neck Recreation Center, 1:30 - 3:30 pm, 2521 Shorehaven Drive, Virginia Beach. Ever wonder if you could shoot a bow & arrow and hit your target? Stop by and give it your best shot during our FREE Archery Demo Day! All equipment provided. Membership or day pass not required. Open to anyone ages 6 & up, but those under 16 must be with a parent.? fun@VBgov.com / (757) 385-5940

Sat, Mar 14 - Skywatch at Northwest River Park, Sunset - 11:00 pm, Northwest River Park & Campground, 1733 Indian Creek Road, Chesapeake. 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. Call (757) 421-7151 to confirm. 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. BBAA will hold a "Telescope 101" beginning 90 minutes before sunset.


Sat/Sun, Mar 14/15 - The Grand National Cheer & Dance Championship by the Sea 2015, Virginia Beach Convention Center, 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach. The Cheer and Dance EXTREME Company is hosting the exciting Grand Cheer & Dance Nationals Championship by the Sea. The Virginia Beach Convention Center will be bursting with enthusiastic cheers and rousing dance numbers. Teams and individuals of varying levels are invited to compete in an event that focuses on true competitive spirit rather than just scores. Prepare to be stunned by stunts and mesmerized by synchronized dancing all in an effort to win the only national title awarded by CDE.


Sun, Mar 15 - One City Marathon, Newport news. Take a tour of Newport News marathon style! The inaugural Newport News One City Marathon takes to the streets on March 15, 2015. Runners will begin their journey in the stunning setting of Newport News Park, venturing to Warwick and onward to the beautiful neighborhoods of Hidenwood and Deep Creek, where runners will approach the thriving campus of Christopher Newport University (CNU). Winding their way along the James River, One City runners will continue to sample the city's offerings as they bound alongside The Mariners' Museum, through Historic Hilton Village and enter the Huntington neighborhood before making their final approach to the world-class Newport News Shipyard. The finish line will await their arrival at Victory Arch. http://onecitymarathon.com/


Mon, Mar 16 - Historic Suffolk Narrated Bus Tour, 2:00 pm, Suffolk Visitor Center, 524 North Main Street. See Suffolk through the eyes of years gone by. Suffolk's rich heritage dates back to the early 17th century, when Captain John Smith first encountered the Nansemond Indians on the Nansemond River. Even now, you can trace Suffolk's legacy through our historic homes and neighborhoods, churches and Virginia Civil War Trails. Guided by a Suffolk historian, you meet the people and places that made Suffolk the city it is today. Highlights of this windshield tour include Cedar Hill Cemetery, Riddick's Folly House Museum, Constant's Wharf, College Court and Suffolk's Historic Lakeside neighborhood. $8 Adults / $6 Seniors, Military and Children 9-12. 757.514.4130


Tue, Mar 17 - Yoga in the Galleries, Chrysler Museum of Art, 8:45 - 9:45 am, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Join Tenesha Bazemore for yoga classes in a beautiful setting. Suitable for all skill levels, and free for Museum Members, we'll do this every Tuesday morning in March.

Tue, Mar 17 - MOCA Nights with Eats the Streets 757 & Bonfire Magazine, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 4 - 9:00 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. Join us on the third Tuesday of each month, when the Museum is open from 5-9pm with FREE admission. Each MOCA NIGHT offers different experiences for visitors including open-mic performances, conversations gallery tours led by educators, hands-on art-making, grown-up scavenger hunts and a cash bar in our Atrium. MOCA Nights now features a 757 Eat the Streets Food Truck Rodeo and event sponsor Bonfire Magazine who will bring live music and other community partners to "celebrate living a full and rich life in Hampton Roads." Come share your words, thoughts and music to inspire in an open and supportive environment. Open Mic Sign-up starts at 6:30pm or in advance on the Facebook event page.


Thu, Mar 19 - Third Thursday, Chrysler Museum of Art, 5 - 10:00 pm, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Museum from 5-10 pm, Glass Studio events begin at 7 pm. In a nod to our wine and jazz events of years gone by, we're offering a jazz concert in the Museum and flaming fun at the Glass Studio. At the Museum, dine at Wisteria or mingle in Huber Court with a glass of your favorite vintage and listen to the high-energy ensemble 504 Supreme, starting at 7 pm in what we're calling Swingin' Jazz and Wine. Arrive early and join Museum Director Erik Neil on a gallery tour featuring some of his favorite works. His tour will begin at 6:15 pm. At the Glass Studio, conceptual artists Sarah Gilbert and Patrick "Pato" Hebert collaborate to create A Fragile Bubble/A Thousand Calamities. Watch as they make delicate and daring drawings with light and heat to the musical accompaniment of the Hot Gumbo Brass Band. Third Thursday is always free for Museum Members, $5 for all others. There's a cash bar in both venues.


Fri-Sun, Mar 20-22 - The 2015 Yuengling Shamrock Marathon & Anthem Half Marathon and TowneBank Shamrock 8k, Virginia Beach Convention Center & Oceanfront. Come celebrate with us as we bring the Luck of the Irish to all runners in Virginia Beach, Virginia on St. Patrick's Day weekend. ShamRock On! Racing Highlights: 30,000 Participants, Yuengling Beer (over 21 only), Murphy's Irish Stew, 2 Day Sports & Fitness Expo, Speaker Series at Expo, Course Entertainment, Post Race Bands, Boston Qualifier, New King Neptune Challenge, Walker Friendly. http://www.shamrockmarathon.com/registration/


Sat, Mar 21 - Great Dismal Swamp Safari, 9:30 - 1:30 pm, Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge (off of White Marsh Road), Suffolk. The Great Dismal Swamp is anything but dismal. The narrated Swamp Safari, one of Suffolk's most popular attractions, fills up quickly. This four-hour tour is led by a biologist specializing is the unique habitat of the Great Dismal. Learn about the history, lore, vegetation and wildlife with this adventure that includes a brief walk to Lake Drummond. Sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended. A small snack and beverage is provided. This tour is not recommended for very small children. Reservations are required and cancellations are expected no less than 48 hours prior to scheduled tour. Call the Suffolk Visitor Center at 757.514.4130 to reserve your spot.

Sat, Mar 21 - Guided Walking Tour of the Isle of Wight County Courthouse Complex, beginning at 10:00 am at Boykin's Tavern, 17146 Monument Circle, Isle of Wight. Join us as we explore this 19th, 20th and 21st century site and share the story of its beginnings as well as a few tales of capers and duels. This tour begins and ends at Boykin's Tavern. The Isle of Wight County Museum is pleased to offer several FREE guided walking tours of the county's historic sites and events throughout the year. Led by local historians and museum staff, the tours offer an in-depth look and a hands-on experience at these important and well-preserved properties. Reservations are not necessary. For further information call 757.357.0115.

Sat, Mar 21 - Guided Walking Tour of Nike Park, beginning at 2:00 pm, 13036 Nike Park Road, Carrollton. Visit one of the Cold War's few surviving Army Air-Defense Posts. Local historian Albert Burckard hosts a short presentation and a walking tour of this site which contains the original barracks, mess hall, administration and recreation building, officer/non-commissioned officer family housing, fueling area and underground missile magazines. Event held at Nike Park. The Isle of Wight County Museum is pleased to offer several FREE guided walking tours of the county's historic sites and events throughout the year. Led by local historians and museum staff, the tours offer an in-depth look and a hands-on experience at these important and well-preserved properties. Reservations are not necessary. For further information call 757.357.0115.


Sun, Mar 22 - "Civil War in Isle of Wight County - An Historical Update" at the Isle of Wight County Museum, 2:00 pm, 103 Main Street in downtown Smithfield. Isle of Wight County has a rich Civil War history. The Isle of Wight County Museum, in conjunction with the Virginia Sesquicentennial initiative, has dug deeper into the Civil War's impact on the area. Join Curator Tracey Neikirk as she reveals how a torpedo boat in the Pagan almost sank the flagship of the Union fleet and the importance of Fort Boykin's telegraph to the commanders in Richmond. For more information call 757.356.1223.



LOCAL THEATER/CONCERTS/TALKS

Now thru Mar 8 - "bare, a pop opera", Peninsula Community Theater, 10251 Warwick Blvd, Newport News. The story focuses on two gay high school students and their struggles at their private, Catholic boarding school.

Now thru Mar 15 - The Taming of the Shrew, By William Shakespeare, Adapted & Directed by Patrick Mullins, Virginia Stage Company, Tue 7:00 pm, Wed-Sat 8:00 pm, Sat 4:00 pm, Sun 2:00 pm, Wells Theater, 110 East Tazewell Street, Norfolk. Find out who really wears the pants in Shakespeare's witty tale of romance, sibling rivalry and strong women. Patrick Mullins takes us on a whirlwind ride, presenting this quick and quirky battle of the sexes romp set to original music.


Fri-Sun, Mar 6-8 - Virginia Musical Theatre: "GYPSY", Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Fri/Sat 8:00 pm, Sat/Sun 2:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. A festive tradition returns to Virginia Musical Theatre as a big, bold musical, with a contemporary Broadway score by local composer Chip Gallagher and lyricist Jeff Meredith, that captures both the spirit of the holidays and Dickens' classic novel. With more than 30 singers, a full orchestra and elaborate scenery, this timely, uplifting and exhilarating tale will be a treat for the entire family.

Fri, Mar 6 thru Mar 15 - "The Diviners", Regent University Theatre, Thu-Sat 7:30 pm, Sat-Sun 2:30 pm, Studio Theatre, Communication and Performing Arts Center, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach. By Jim Leonard Jr., Directed by April Wolfe. In a town longing for revival, an unexpected friendship between a damaged boy and a disenchanted preacher brings both redemption and heartache. 757.352.4245

Fri, Mar 6 thru Mar 29 - "Clybourne Park", by Bruce Norris, Generic Theater, Thu-Sat 8:00 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, 215 St. Paul's Blvd, Norfolk. This beautiful play is a follow-up to Raisin in the Sun, one of the great classics of all time. In Raisin in the Sun, Mama Younger buys a house in a white neighborhood in 1960. Clybourne Park takes us into that house. It starts just before Mama moves in and follows it ahead 50 years to show how the whole neighborhood, and the whole world, has changed around it. It won the Tony Award for Best Play in 2012. selling tickets for $7 for opening weekend starting Friday and $9 for the following weekend.  You can see the details here: http://www.NORFOLKHOTDEALS.COM/Generic-Theater--Norfolk/Norfolk/23510/deals/Clybourne-Park--Tony-Winning-Play-at-The-Generic-Theater-in-Norfolk--OPENS-FRIDAY/87726/3726


Fri, Mar 6 - Movie in the Pool: "Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2", Princess Anne Recreation Center, 6 - 8:00 pm, 1400 Nimmo Parkway, Virginia Beach. Enjoy a special feature while floating in the pool. Membership or day pass needed, but no additional cost. Open to all ages, but those age 9 & under must be directly supervised by someone age 16 or older.??? fun@VBgov.com / (757) 385-5950

Fri, Mar 6 - The Sing-Off Live Tour, Chrysler Hall, 7:00 pm, 215 St Paul's Blvd, Norfolk. The tour will offer the ultimate a cappella experience, giving fans of the show a unique opportunity to see their favorite groups perform live, and fans of a cappella music an incredible evening of some of the country's top talent. The Sing-Off Live Tour! will feature The Sing-Off fan favorite groups VoicePlay (season 4) and Street Corner Symphony (season 2) plus THE MELODORES from this year's 2-hour The Sing-Off television special on NBC. On tour the groups will perform their a cappella versions of this year's chart topping hits as well as favorite arrangements from the TV show.

Fri, Mar 6 - Hampton Roads Philharmonic, The American Theater, 7:30 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. Featuring local 15 year old cellist Sterling Elliot, who was a Sphinx Competition winner, was featured on the NPR program "From the Top", and last month was a guest artist with the Cleveland Orchestra celebrating Martin Luther King Day. Known for his beautiful melodic tone and mature playing, he will be performing one of the cornerstones of cello literature Elgar's Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85.

Fri, Mar 6 - Charlie Wilson: The Forever Charlie Tour With Special Guests Kem & Joe, Ted Constant Convocation Center, 8:00 pm, 4320 Hampton Blvd, Norfolk. Wilson has received seven Grammy nominations and multiple awards throughout his career; he was named Billboard magazine's #1 Adult R&B Artist and has had eight #1 records that topped the Billboard Urban Adult Contemporary radio chart including, "Without You," "Charlie, Last Name Wilson," "Magic," "There Goes My Baby," "Can't Live Without You," "You Are," "Life of the Party" and "My Love Is All I Have." Most recently, Wilson received a Grammy nomination for the song "If I Believe" in the Gospel category; he was also an NAACP Outstanding Album Award winner for the album Love, Charlie and BET presented to Wilson a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013.

Fri, Mar 6 - VSO Jazz: The Music of Benny Goodman, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 8:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Swing along with the Virginia Symphony and jazz artist Sal Andolina as they pay tribute to the life and music of "The King of Swing" with Benny Goodman's chart-topping hits and classic swing-era favorites.


Sat, Mar 7 - Women's History Month Film Fest: "Fly Girls", Virginia War Museum, 1:00 pm, 9285 Warwick Boulevard in Huntington Park, Newport News. The museum will host a film festival during the month of March featuring films with depicting women's roles in the military.  All movies are free with each day's paid admission. Fly Girls. At the height of World War II, more than a thousand women left their homes and jobs for the opportunity of a lifetime-joining the Women's Air Force Service Pilots (WASP) to become the first female pilots to fly for the United States military. Drawing on archival footage, rarely seen home movies, and interviews with pilots themselves, the women of the WASP take wing once again, to tell their story of skill, determination, and courage.

Sat, Mar 7 - The World Famous Popovich Comedy Pet Theater, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 7:00 pm, 110 West Finney Ave, Suffolk. The World Famous Popovich Comedy Pet Theater is a family-oriented blend of the unique comedy and juggling skills of Gregory Popovich, and the extraordinary talents of his performing pets. Each of the show's cats and dogs were once strays, rescued from animal shelters. Now, they love to show off onstage - by performing a variety of stunts and skits! $25 adults/$12.50 youth. 757.923.2900

Sat, Mar 7 - Southern Gospel Concert, Pinecrest Baptist Church, 4 - 9:00 pm, 209 Felton Road, Portsmouth.  Tidewater Gospel Music Association Annual Singing Jubilee featuring The Whisnants, The Daughters of the King, The Dunns, His Elect, The Kelleys, The Looking Up Trio, The Old Time Gospel Singers, The Riverdale Quartet, The Taylors, and The Virginia Harmonheirs. This is a FREE event. Doors open at 3:00 PM for food sales. Everyone is invited!

Sat, Mar 7 - VSO Jazz: The Music of Benny Goodman, Chrysler Hall, 8:00 pm, 215 St Paul's Blvd, Norfolk. Swing along with the Virginia Symphony and jazz artist Sal Andolina as they pay tribute to the life and music of "The King of Swing" with Benny Goodman's chart-topping hits and classic swing-era favorites.

Sat, Mar 7 - Over the Rainbow: A Musical Tribute to the Artistry of Judy Garland, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 8:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Relive and encounter anew the timeless wonder of the music made famous by an American treasure. The remarkable Hilary Kole conjures the spirit and beauty of Judy Garland in stunning arrangements, featuring "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," "The Trolley Song," "As Long As He Needs Me," "Look for the Silver Lining" and other great songs made famous by the singer Fred Astaire called "the greatest entertainer that ever lived."


Sun, Mar 8 - "Treasure Island", Children's Theatre of Hampton Roads, 2:00 pm, Meyera E Oberndorf Central Library Theatre, Virginia Beach Blvd, Virginia Beach. Set sail on an epic adventure with this hilarious retelling of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic story of buccaneers and buried gold. An energy filled, side-splitting play that has something for the entire family: comedy, danger, swordplay, puppets and pirates!

Sun, Mar 8 - The Russian National Ballet: "Sleeping Beauty", Ferguson Center for the Arts, 3:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. The Russian National Ballet Theatre was founded in Moscow during the transitional period of Perestroika in the late 1980s.  Today, the Russian National Ballet Theatre is its own institution, with over 50 dancers of singular instruction and vast experience, many of whom have been with the company since its inception. Legendary Bolshoi principal dancer Elena Radchenko serves as artistic director.

Sun, Mar 8 - The Russian National Ballet: "Giselle", Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. The Russian National Ballet Theatre was founded in Moscow during the transitional period of Perestroika in the late 1980s.  Today, the Russian National Ballet Theatre is its own institution, with over 50 dancers of singular instruction and vast experience, many of whom have been with the company since its inception. Legendary Bolshoi principal dancer Elena Radchenko serves as artistic director.

Sun, Mar 8 - Jubilation In Dance, Thomas Nelson Community College, 3:00 pm, Mary Christian Auditorium, 99 Thomas Nelson Drive, Hampton. York River Symphony Orchestra, Conductor, Dr. Eric Reiff, Associate conductor, Clint Correll, with Winners of the 2014-2015 YRSO Young Artists Competition.

Sun, Mar 8 - Sunday's at Four presents the Hampton Roads Philharmonic, 4:00 pm, Trinity United Methodist Church, 210 Cedar Street in downtown Smithfield (please note venue change!). Sundays at Four presents their second series concert featuring the Hampton Roads Philharmonic, Steven Brindle, conductor with award winning guest soloist, 15 year old Sterling Elliott, performing Elgar's Cello Concerto No. 1 in E Minor. Adults $20 Students $5. For further information call 757.375.9140.

Sun, Mar 8 - Spend an Evening in Concert with Gladys Knight, Chrysler Hall, 8:00 pm, 215 St Paul's Blvd, Norfolk. The great ones endure, and Gladys Knight has long been one of the greatest. Very few singers over the last fifty years have matched her unassailable artistry. This seven-time Grammy winner has enjoyed #1 hits in Pop, Gospel, R&B and Adult Contemporary, and has triumphed in film, television and live performance.


Mon, Mar 9 - RESCHEDULED Williamsburg Symphonia Masterworks #3, Kimball Theater, 8:00 pm, Merchants' Square, 428 West Duke of Gloucester Street, Williamsburg. The Williamsburg Symphonia presents Masterworks Concert #3, Celebrating Musical Innovations, with guest soloist Paul Neubauer, principal violist of the New York Philharmonic.


Tue, Mar 10 - Second Tuesday Forum: A Regiment of Slaves, Commodore Theater, 12:00 Noon, 421 High Street, Portsmouth. Doors open at 11 am. Join Edward Longacre, Historian and Author discuss his book, "A Regiment of Slaves". The Second Tuesday Forum series is 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, Mar 10 - POSTPONED Out of the Box Music Series: 'The Last Bison', Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 6:00 pm, Miller Studio Theatre, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. A new Sandler Center emerging artist series, Out of the Box takes place 6:00 - 9:00pm every Thursday from January 15 - March 5, 2015. The event is in collaboration with Paul Shugrue from Out of the Box on 89.5 WHRV. This series is free and open to the public and will feature live music from the region's best acts. Refreshments available for purchase. In 2012 The Last Bison seemingly rose from the marshes of southeastern Virginia to captivate the national music scene with a rare blend of music that NPR dubbed, "Classical influenced southern folk rock." Having drawn comparisons in the past to indie superstars the likes of Mumford & Sons, The Decemberists, and Fleet Foxes, their most recent project harvests a more dynamic, and anthemic sound from the soil of their folk roots. The addition of electric bass and keyboards to their extensive collection of acoustic instruments has been compared to Bob Dylan going electric at Newport in 1965.

Tue, Mar 10 - The Blue Planet Forum: Report on Economic Benefits of Cleaning Up the Chesapeake Bay, Slover Library, 7 - 8:30 pm, 6th floor community room, 235 East Plume Street, Norfolk. The Blue Planet Forum is a free environmental lecture series, presented by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, VIRGINIAforever, Old Dominion University, and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. This Forum will be moderated by Cathy Lewis, Host of WHRO's Hear Say, and with participation from Will Baker, CBF President, the panel includes: Maurice Jones, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade; Quentin Kidd, Director of the Watson Center for Public Policy at Christopher Newport University; and Beth McGee, CBF Senior Water Quality Scientist. The event is FREE, but please RSVP by clicking here [http://www.cbf.org/events/registration/blue-planet-forum?srctid=1&erid=39170280&trid=d456cf53-4617-4a29-bed2-fc78e110c2d8] or writing us at blueplanet@cbf.org.

Tue, Mar 10 - On Screen/In Person: "Still Dreaming", Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:00 pm, Music & Theatre Hall, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Still Dreaming follows a group of elderly entertainers living at the Lillian Booth Actors Home in New Jersey and a pair of young directors hired to stage an in-house performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream. As the once-celebrated performers struggle with Alzheimer's, dementia and physical disabilities, the play's themes of perception, reality and memory take on new relevance and poignancy.


Wed, Mar 11 - Dog Loves Books, Education Series, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 10:00 am & 12:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. A picture-book treat for the youngest dog lovers. Dog loves books SO much he opens his very own bookstore. At first he's short of customers. But that's all right, because when Dog is surrounded by books, he is never short of friends-or fun. And when customers begin arriving, he knows just which books to recommend. Louise Yates's expressive little white dog-and his many expressive doggie customers-extend an irresistible invitation to the very youngest to try reading. It's fun!

Wed, Mar 11 - Artist Talk: Ryan McGinness, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 6:30 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. Join Ryan McGinness and moderator Brother Rutter (local contemporary art collector and advocate) for an exclusive public conversation about his work, including the making of Art History is Not Linear (VMFA), the subject of MOCA's current exhibition: Ryan McGinness: Studio Visit. The artist will sign related products available in the MOCA Museum Shop after the talk and galleries will be open until 9 pm. MOCA Members FREE, Non-members $5. For questions or to make reservations and ticket purchases by phone, please call 757-425-0000 x310 to reach Visitor Services.

Wed, Mar 11 - The Louis Guy History Series Lecture: Shooting Lincoln with Alex Mann, MacArthur Memorial, 7:00 pm, 198 Bank Street, MacArthur Square, Norfolk. In conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the end of the Civil War, the Chrysler Museum presents two photography exhibitions exploring the life and legacy of President Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865). Shooting Lincoln: Photography and the Sixteenth President and Greta Pratt: Nineteen Lincolns open on February 10, in the Museum's Frank Photography Galleries (G. 228). Both shows will remain on view through July 5, 2015. This talk is in conjunction with the exhibit.


Thu, Mar 12 - Marcus Johnson, Attucks Theatre, 8:00 pm, 1010 Church Street, Norfolk. Over the last decade, Marcus Johnson has released 15 successful studio albums. Johnson is the owner of a music label, Three Keys Music, and has emerged as one of the young lions of the "DIY" music world.  His unique self-taught style of piano play has earned him distinction among his peers, praise from the media and accolades across the music industry.  Marcus is on the cutting edge of 'Euro Jazz' having formed JURIS, a musical collaboration with acclaimed Parisian DJ and producer Young Pulse. The duo quickly developed a name within the international music community, enjoying large-scale performances and preparing a Q3 release of their latest project entitled "Eiffel Tower."

Thu, Mar 12 - Women of Ireland, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Women of Ireland is an innovative and exciting full-stage concert production which showcases the next generation of Ireland's leading female performers. The show demonstrates the wealth of talent that exists within Ireland's traditions of music, song and dance. The common theme inherent in all performances is the presentation of the most revered qualities of Ireland's ethnic music which will be transported from the Irish fireside to the international concert hall platform. In addition, special significance is placed on depicting the pure qualities of Irish music in a contemporary setting.

Thu, Mar 12 - VSO: Haydn's Sinfonia Concertante, Phi Beta Kappa Hall, 8:00 pm, 601 Jamestown Road, Williamsburg. Four stars of the VSO stage join forces to perform Haydn's charming Sinfonia Concertante, a work that allows each of them to display their virtuosity as musicians.  The beautiful voices of the Virginia Symphony Chorus will also be featured in two works by Brahms: Nanie and Schicksaslied. JoAnn Falletta, conductor; Vahn Armstrong, violin; Michael Daniels, cello; Sherie Lake Aguirre, oboe; Laura Leisring, bassoon; Virginia Symphony Chorus


Thu, Mar 12 thru Mar 28 - "The 39 Steps", Williamsburg Players, Thu-Sat 8:00 pm, Sat 2:00 pm, 200 Hubbard Lane, Williamsburg. Adapted for the stage by Patrick Barlow from an original concept by Simon Corble & Nobby Dimon, presented by special arrangement with Samuel French, Inc. What happens when every character from Alfred Hitchcock's classic thriller is played by a cast of just four actors and all of the on-screen action is presented on a theater stage? A madcap take on a suspense classic! Directed by Abigail Schumann


Fri-Sun, Mar 13-15 - The Hurrah Players present Disney's: "MULAN", TCC Roper Performing Arts Center, Fri/Sat 7:00 pm, Sat/Sun 3:00 pm, 340 Granby St, Norfolk. The Hurrah Players introduce another Disney treasure to the Hampton Roads Community. Based on the 1998 Disney film and the ancient story Fa Mulan by Robert D. San Souci - Hurrah presents the stage-musical adaptation of Disney's MULAN. Disney's MULAN brilliantly weaves together classic fairy tale elements with fiery new characters, heart-pounding adventure, and unforgettable music to delight audiences of all ages. Defying the village matchmaker, young Mulan takes up arms and disguises herself as a boy in order to spare her father from having to serve in the army. The Huns have invaded, the Ancestors are watching, and it is up to the misfit Mulan and her mischievous sidekick Mushu to save the Emperor.


Fri, Mar 13 thru Mar 17 - Virginia Opera presents: "La Traviata", Harrison Opera House, Fri 8:00 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, Tue 7:30 pm, 160 East Virginia Beach Boulevard, Norfolk. To close this stunning season of stylistic highlights, Virginia Opera premieres [co-produced with, Des Moines Metro Opera] a brand new, glittering and glamorous traditional staging of La Traviata directed by Virginia Opera audience favorite, Lilian Groag, who stunned audiences last Spring with a vibrant and stylish Marriage of Figaro- Ms. Groag has worked with Virginia Opera for over 20 years and the tradition continues with this brand-new La Traviata. Conducted by Andrew Bisantz, in his Virginia Opera debut, this exciting American conductor enjoys a significant opera career and continues the Virginia Opera tradition of presenting major new talent.

Fri, Mar 13 thru Apr 5 - "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof", by Tennessee Williams, Little Theatre of Norfolk, Fri/Sat 8:00 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, 801 Claremont Ave, Norfolk. A family gathers at the Pollitt Plantation for the sixty-fifth birthday celebration of Big Daddy, its ailing patriarch. Despite the festivities, conniving family members scramble to secure their part of his estate. As tensions mount between alcoholic former football hero Brick and his beautiful but sexually frustrated wife Maggie "the Cat, a shock wave of secrets is finally revealed. * Contains Adult Language / Situations


Sat, Mar 14 - Women's History Month Film Fest: "Top Secret Rosies: The Female Computers of WW II", Virginia War Museum, 1:00 pm, 9285 Warwick Boulevard in Huntington Park, Newport News. The museum will host a film festival during the month of March featuring films with depicting women's roles in the military.  All movies are free with each day's paid admission. March 14: Top Secret Rosies: The Female Computers of WWII. In 1942 a secret U.S. military program was launched to recruit women to the war effort. This clandestine search targeted female mathematicians who would become human 'computers' for the U.S. Army. From the bombing of Axis Europe to the assaults on Japanese strongholds, women worked around-the-clock six days a week, creating ballistics tables that proved crucial to Allies' success.

Sat, Mar 14 - Ballet Virginia International: "Sleeping Beauty", Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 2:00 & 7:30 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. Ballet Virginia International presents a ballet fit for a Princess... Be transported to a land of fairies, royal pageantry and a fated princess. Watch as the Lilac Fairy saves Princess Aurora and her kingdom from Carobosse's evil and jealous spells. See Prince Florimund awake his Sleeping Beauty from her slumber. Love follows and a "happily ever after" brings the story to a spectacular end.

Sat, Mar 14 - "A Raisin in the Sun", Willett Hall, 3 & 8:00 pm, 3701 Willett Drive, Portsmouth. Set on Chicago's South Side, the plot revolves around the divergent dreams and conflicts within three generations of the Younger family: son Walter Lee, his wife Ruth, his sister Beneatha, his son Travis and matriarch Lena. When her deceased husband's insurance money comes through, Mama Lena dreams of moving to a new home and a better neighborhood in Chicago. Walter Lee, a chauffeur has other plans, however: buying a liquor store and being his own man. Beneatha dreams of medical school. The tensions and prejudice they face form this seminal American Drama. Sacrifice, trust and love among the Younger family and their heroic struggle to retain dignity in a harsh and changing world is a searing and timeless document of hope and inspiration.  (757) 393-5144

Sat, Mar 14 - Jr. Walkers All-Stars & The Winstons Greatest Motown Revue, Attucks Theatre, 7:00 pm, 1010 Church Street, Norfolk. The Winstons & Their Orchestra: Performing the hit song - "Color Him Father" and featuring "The World's Greatest Motown Revue." Let The Winstons take you down memory lane with the classic hits of The Temptations, The Four Tops, Smokey Robinson & The Miracles, Diana Ross & The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and many others...

Sat, Mar 14 - VSO: Haydn's Sinfonia Concertante, Regent University, 8:00 pm, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach. Four stars of the VSO stage join forces to perform Haydn's charming Sinfonia Concertante, a work that allows each of them to display their virtuosity as musicians.  The beautiful voices of the Virginia Symphony Chorus will also be featured in two works by Brahms: Nanie and Schicksaslied. JoAnn Falletta, conductor; Vahn Armstrong, violin; Michael Daniels, cello; Sherie Lake Aguirre, oboe; Laura Leisring, bassoon; Virginia Symphony Chorus

Sat, Mar 14 - 'Dana Leong Trio', The American Theater, 8:00 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. Composer, cellist and trombonist Dana Leong fuses jazz, classical and pop to create a signature boundless sound. Often referred to as a "hi-def Yo-Yo Ma," Dana's pioneering collage of musical styles has garnered critical acclaim and wowed audiences around the world. Dana Leong Trio, featuring Dana (cello/trombone/laptop), John Shannon (guitar) and DJ Icewater (turntables), is the latest incarnation of Dana's ever-expansive compositions, bringing together an exciting electro-acoustic blend of jazz, classical and pop.


Sun, Mar 15 - Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary, The American Theater, 2:30 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. Peter's talents as a creative artist - both with Peter, Paul & Mary and as a solo performer - are frequently directed at using music to convey a message of humanity and caring. His gift for songwriting has produced some of the most moving songs Peter, Paul & Mary have recorded, including "Puff, the Magic Dragon," "Day is Done," "Light One Candle," and "The Great Mandala." As a member of the renowned musical trio, he has earned many gold and platinum albums, and has been awarded numerous Grammys and been nominated for several more. More important to Peter, however, is the acknowledgment of the central role that he and his partners have played in bringing the folk renaissance of the 1960s to the hearts and homes of the American public.

Sun, Mar 15 - Virginia Symphony Orchestra: Mayhem at the Music Shoppe, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 3:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. What happens when a curious ferret invades an instrument repair shop at night? Sidesplitting adventure is sure to ensue as the creature explores the shop's menagerie of instruments - taking the audience along for the ride!  Join us as the PB&J series concludes with Gregory Smith's hilarious and zany presentation, "The Animated Orchestra."


Mon, Mar 16 - Mal Vincent presents..."Virginia is for Movie Lovers", Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 6:30 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. "I'm No Angel" (1933), starring Mae West and Cary Grant. MOCA is delighted to partner again with film critic Mal Vincent for this three-part film series in celebration of our Virginia-centric exhibitions. Mal will introduce each film and share personal stories and the inside scoop on the film and actors featured. Come to the museum early to see the current exhibitions and enjoy a cocktail. Mar 16, 23, & 30. Doors open with cash bar & concessions 6:30 pm. Film/introduction 7:15 pm. Tickets: $10 per person, MOCA Members $5. Purchase a combo ticket to all 3 films and SAVE!


Tue, Mar 17 - An Evening with Sarah McLachlan, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 8:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Sarah McLachlan is one of the most celebrated singer songwriters in entertainment with over 40 million albums sold worldwide. She is an eight-time Juno Award winner and a three-time Grammy Award winner. McLachlan's landmark fifth album, the 10x-platinum SURFACING, contained two Grammy Award-winning tracks: "Building a Mystery" and "Last Dance." In addition to her personal artistic efforts, she founded the Lilith Fair tour showcasing female musicians which raised over $7 million for local and national charities over its 3 years and in 2002 founded her non-profit organization the Sarah McLachlan School of Music.


Wed, Mar 18 - Norfolk Society of Arts Lecture Series: "Degas/Cassatt: An Impressionist Pas-de-Deux", Chrysler Museum of Art, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Featuring Kimberly A. Jones, Associate Curator of French Paintings, The National Gallery of Art, Washington. Discover how Edgar Degas and Mary Cassatt shaped and improved each other's art and audiences at home and abroad. Come at 10:30 a.m. for a coffee reception to learn more about the NSA and its April 13 benefit luncheon and silent auction. The free talk in the Kaufman Theater begins at 11 am.

Wed, Mar 18 - Lunch in Time: "Construction of Fort Monroe", Hampton History Museum, 12 - 1:00 pm, 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton. Join W. Robert Kelly, Casemate Museum historian, Fort Monroe Authority for "The Construction of Fort Monroe: An Archival Investigation." Hear the history of how the "Gibraltar of the Chesapeake" was built. Fort Monroe is a masterpiece of military engineering and is the largest masonry fort in America spanning 63 acres. Free and open to the public - bring a bag lunch! 757-727-1610

Wed, Mar 18 - Front Porch Music Series: 'Otis Brooks Trio', Hampton History Museum, 6 - 8:00 pm, 120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton. Otis Brooks uses Rock, Jazz, Blues, R&B and Funk elements in his musical expression and has been playing in his trio and as a band mate in Rock, Blues and Jazz bands for the better part of a decade.


Thu, Mar 19 - Chris Brown featuring Tyga: Between the Sheets Tour, Hampton Coliseum, 7:00 pm, 1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. The Between The Sheets Tour date at Hampton Coliseum originally scheduled for Tuesday, January 27 has been postponed to Thursday, March 19 at 7 pm. Due to the postponement, Trey Songz will not be able to perform in Hampton. This date will feature Chris Brown with special guest Tyga. Refunds available at point of purchase for fans unable to attend rescheduled date.

Thu, Mar 19 - Washington Saxaphone Quartet, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. WSaxQ is the most widely heard saxophone quartet in the United States. Since 1997, recorded arrangements by the Washington Saxophone Quartet have aired daily throughout the United States on NPR's broadcasts of "All Things Considered." Concert audiences enjoy their connection to WSaxQ when they discover they've been listening to the quartet's music during afternoon "drive-time." And it often comes as a surprise that they've been hearing four saxophones! The instruments evoke the refined sounds of a string quartet, the rich harmonies of an organ prelude, and the excitement of a jazz sax section.

Thu, Mar 19 - Phoebus Film Club Series: "Casablanca", The American Theater, 7:30 pm, 125 E Mellen St, Hampton. An undisputed masterpiece and perhaps Hollywood's quintessential statement on love and romance. In World War II Casablanca, Rick Blaine, exiled American and former freedom fighter, runs the most popular nightspot in town. The cynical lone wolf Blaine comes into the possession of two valuable letters of transit. When Nazi Major Strasser arrives in Casablanca, the sycophantic police Captain Renault does what he can to please him, including detaining a Czechoslovak underground leader Victor Laszlo. Much to Rick's surprise, Lazslo arrives with Ilsa, Rick's one time love. Rick is very bitter towards Ilsa, who ran out on him in Paris, but when he learns she had good reason to, they plan to run off together again using the letters of transit.

Thu, Mar 19 - Distinguished Speaker Series: General Colin Powel - "Leadership: Taking Charge", Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. For over 50 years, General Colin L. Powell, USA (Ret.) has devoted his life to public service. Having held senior military and diplomatic positions across four presidential administrations, Powell's deep commitment to democratic values and freedom has been felt throughout the world. The son of Jamaican immigrants, Powell attended the City College of New York where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology. It was not until he joined the Army ROTC program at CCNY that he discovered his calling and launched his incredible military career.


Sat, Mar 21 - "Treasure Island" by The Children's Theatre of Hampton Roads, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 11:00 am, 110 West Finney Avenue, Suffolk. Set sail on an adventure with this retelling of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic story of buccaneers and buried gold. A high-energy and hilarious play that has something for every age-swordplay, danger, comedy, puppets and pirates. $5.  757.923.2900

Sat, Mar 21 - Southern Gospel Concert, Green Lakes Baptist Church, 6:30 pm, 1610 Hodges Ferry Rd, Portsmouth. FREE concert featuring KEEPERS OF THE FAITH, a gospel quartet from Washington state.



FARMERS' MARKETS

Sat, Mar 7 - Williamsburg Farmers Market, Every Sat 8:30am to 12:30pm. Merchants' Square, Williamsburg. In the heart of historic Williamsburg, Virginia.  Flowerbeds and benches offer a tranquil setting for this open-air, Virginia producer-only market.  Over 35 vendors offer a variety of local products, among which are fresh seasonal produce, chicken, beef, bison, pork, oysters, fish, crabs, prawns, herbs, potted plants, baked goods, confections, honey, cheese, cut flowers, handmade soaps, and more. http://www.williamsburgfarmersmarket.com/

Sat, Mar 14 - Williamsburg Farmers Market, Every Sat 8:30am to 12:30pm. Merchants' Square, Williamsburg. In the heart of historic Williamsburg, Virginia.  Flowerbeds and benches offer a tranquil setting for this open-air, Virginia producer-only market.  Over 35 vendors offer a variety of local products, among which are fresh seasonal produce, chicken, beef, bison, pork, oysters, fish, crabs, prawns, herbs, potted plants, baked goods, confections, honey, cheese, cut flowers, handmade soaps, and more. http://www.williamsburgfarmersmarket.com/

Sat, Mar 21 - Old Beach Farmers' Market, Croc's 19th Street Bistro, Beginning November 2014 and running through May 2015 your market will be open every third Saturday, 9:00 am to Noon, on the corner of 19th Street and Cypress Ave, Virginia Beach. Old Beach Farmers Market (OBFM) features 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. Founded in 2008, Old Beach Farmers Market is run entirely by volunteers as an independent 501(c)6 organization. We support local family farms, watermen, and Virginia wineries. Old Beach Farmers Market is a certified Virginia Green market, encouraging eco-friendly practices. Walk over or ride a bike. Bring a reusable shopping bag. Come discover the taste of fresh, seasonal fare.

Sat, Mar 21 - Smithfield Farmers Market's "Vintage Market", 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, the Bank of Southside Virginia parking lot, 115 Main Street in downtown Smithfield. Offering vintage, antique & repurposed Items, plus great food by From the Hearth pizza, Creekside Catering, Truly Scrumptious,  Yummaries, Rogue Elephant Coffee, live music by Reg Lanning & more! The Smithfield Farmers Market season opens in the same location the following Saturday & runs through October. For further information call 757.375.3031.

Sat, Mar 21 - Williamsburg Farmers Market, Every Sat 8:30am to 12:30pm. Merchants' Square, Williamsburg. In the heart of historic Williamsburg, Virginia.  Flowerbeds and benches offer a tranquil setting for this open-air, Virginia producer-only market.  Over 35 vendors offer a variety of local products, among which are fresh seasonal produce, chicken, beef, bison, pork, oysters, fish, crabs, prawns, herbs, potted plants, baked goods, confections, honey, cheese, cut flowers, handmade soaps, and more. http://www.williamsburgfarmersmarket.com/

Sat, Mar 28 - Smithfield Farmers Market's "Season Opening Craft & Food Market", 9:00 am until 1:00 pm, the Bank of Southside Virginia parking lot, 115 Main Street, Downtown Smithfield. Named in 2013 & 2014 as one of the "Top 101 Farmers Markets in America!" by TheDailyMeal.com. Now in its 13th season, the market is proud to be a Virginia Grown market offering locally grown produce, beef, pork, chicken, eggs, peanuts, plants, herbs, baked goods, coffee, cheese, honey, barbecue, wood-fired pizza, ham sandwiches, handcrafted items and more! Also featuring live music each market! Enjoy our friendly community event in the heart of historic Smithfield, Virginia. Pets are always welcome! For further information call 757.375.3031.