Local Tidewater Virginia Happenings

COMMUNITY EVENTS / FESTIVALS

Now thru Apr 19 - Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents CIRCUS XTREME, Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton. It’s time for your family to be amazed by all the X-TRAORDINARY things you know and love about America’s favorite live family entertainment experience. Be astonished by UN-XPECTED circus spectacles you’ve never seen before and that can’t be seen anywhere else but at The Greatest Show On Earth®. Get ready for an X-HILARATING adventure with X-TRAORDINARY circus artists and magnificent X-OTIC animals!  It’s time to awaken the spirit of Children Of All Ages and stir the imagination of your family! Ringling Bros.® Presents CIRCUS XTREME.  It’s time to have XTREME fun with your family! Get your tickets today! http://www.hamptoncoliseum.org/events/detail/ringling-bros-and-barnum-bailey-presents-circus-xtreme

Now thru Apr 19 - 44th Annual Student Art & Design Exhibition, Tidewater Community College Visual Arts Center, Corner of High & Court Streets, Portsmouth. A year’s work culminates with a student show chosen from completed VAC course projects. Featuring over 200 pieces by more than 100 students, works represent program courses in Studio Arts, Photography, Graphic Design, Ceramics and Glass Blowing. For more information please call 757-822-1888

Now thru Apr 24 - LOVEwork Sculpture in Merchants Square, Williamsburg. Picture Yourself in LOVE! The Virginia Tourism corporation's oversized LOVE artwork will be visiting Merchants Square from April 17 - 24.

Now thru April - Bike Nights, Norfolk Botanical Garden, Mon/Wed/Thu 4 - 7:00 pm, 6700 Azalea Garden Road, Norfolk. Bring your bikes, helmets and family or friends out to Norfolk Botanical Garden and pedal through the petals. Norfolk Botanical Garden is home to 12 miles of pedestrian pathways. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. they are open to bikers! Regular Garden admission applies.

Now thru May 3 - Coding: Artists and Their Creative DNA, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, Corner of High & Court St., Portsmouth. This exhibit 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. Featured artists include Maria Barbosa, Victor Ekpuk, Gloria Garfinkel, Hamid Kachmar, Khánh Lê, Judith Peck, Gina Pierleoni, and Anastasia Rurikov-Simes.

Now thru May 17 - Portsmouth Here and Now, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, Corner of High & Court St., Portsmouth. Seeking to promote the vibrant, cultural life and activity in Portsmouth, this juried exhibit offers a range of artistic works and styles by artists who live and/or work in our great City. 393-8543

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.

Thu, Apr 16 - Third Thursday, Chrysler Museum of Art, 5 - 10:00 pm, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Game on in Huber Court! Participate in GameStop’s Video Game Competition and peruse tables set up by Dave and Buster’s and Tidewater Comicon. The Angel Alien Podcast will host a panel discussion and DJ Okaishun will provide the music for the evening - At the Museum from 5–10 pm. At the Glass Studio, artist Karen Donnellan and her students from Alfred University perform Mellifera with live music by Daniel Neale. Glass Studio events begin at 7 pm. Third Thursday is always free for Museum Members, $5 for all others. There's a cash bar in both venues.

Thu, Apr 16 - 3rd Thursday at Jesters Gallery Shop: Featuring Debbie Hobbs, Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 5:30 - 7:00 pm, 110 W. Finney Avenue, Suffolk. Free. Join us in the Jester's Gallery Shop at the Suffolk Center to meet our resident artist, Debbie Hobbs. www.suffolkcenter.org / Registration: 757.923.0003

Thu, Apr 16 - The Coffee Bar – Coffee Food Pairings, The Mariners’ Museum and Park, 7 - 9:00 pm, 100 Museum Dr, Newport News. Get caffeinated! Unwind with a cuppa joe at The Mariners’ Museum. The Coffee Bar features: Eat, drink and learn with a coffee and food pairing; Live music; Light refreshments; Access to the Museum’s newest exhibition, Coffee: The World in Your Cup. Admission is $10 and includes everything listed above! There will also be a cash bar with a signature coffee drink.

Fri, Apr 17 - "Home School Day", Isle of Wight County, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Historic sites in Isle of Wight County and the town of Smithfield. Smithfield and Isle of Wight County’s historic sites welcome homeschoolers of all ages with a selection of fun and engaging activities that highlight the history of Virginia and the area. For more information call 757.356.1223.

Fri, Apr 17 - Town Fair at Town Center, 5 - 8:00 pm, Central Park Plaza, Town Center, Virginia Beach. The Town Fair at Town Center features local handmade art, jewelry, goods and fair trade merchandise.  On the third Friday of each month, April through September, residents and visitors alike, can stroll around the Fountain Plaza of Town Center as we showcase more than 30 merchants’ handmade and fair trade goods. This month's Town Fair kicks off with an Earth Day theme!  Come out to meet with the artisans and merchants from in and around the Town Center of Virginia Beach.

Fri, Apr 17 - Chesapeake Virginia Spring Wine Festival, Chesapeake Conference Center, 5 - 11:00 pm, Tastings end at 10:00 pm, 700 Conference Center Drive, Chesapeake. $40 per ticket or 2 tickets for $75. An indoor wine tasting event from the creators of the Chesapeake, VA Wine Festival. Indoor festival representing over 10 Virginia Wineries, an expanded craft beer garden, a martini lounge and wine accessory vendors. Hosted by the Chesapeake Rotary Club. http://www.cheswine.com/

Fri, Apr 17 - Relay for Life Fundraiser: Police vs. Fire Blazin’ Wing Challenge, 6:00 pm, Buffalo Wild Wings, Hampton. Come support the city's police and fire departments as they battle it out during the Blazin' Wing Challenge as part of their Relay for Life fundraising. Buffalo Wild Wings will donate money to the American Cancer Society in honor of the winning team.

Fri-Sun, Apr 17-19 - Spring Break Carnival, Virginia Beach Farmers Market, 12 - 10:00 pm, 3640 Dam Neck Road, Virginia Beach. Family Carnival Rides, Games & Concessions.

Sat, Apr 18 - Great American Cleanup - Keep Norfolk Beautiful Day, Various locations, Various times. Norfolk's Great American Cleanup takes place annually, through June 6. Volunteers can participate in various litter cleanups and beautification projects, which help keep the City clean and beautiful. Keep Norfolk Beautiful (KNB) needs volunteer team leaders, individuals (all ages), civic, faith-based and corporate groups as well as military personnel! For questions, contact KNB at knb@norfolk.gov or 757-441-1347. http://www.norfolk.gov/FormCenter/Keep-Norfolk-Beautiful-35/2015-Great-American-Cleanup-GAC-Registra-146

Sat, Apr 18 - 4th Annual Bataan Death March Memorial Walk, Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, 6:00 am - 12:00 pm, 1200 Dismal Swamp Canal Trail, Chesapeake. Take a part in a walking event commemorating the 73rd Anniversary of the Bataan Death March of World War II. Honor the 90,000 US and Filipino Servicemen who suffered and endured one of the most harrowing events in history. The March is free & open to all. Families are invited, active duty military can come as a unit. Three Walk Events: 16.6 mile walk – 06:00 start, walk to the NC border and back (0545 last check-in); 5 mile walk – 10:00 start (0945 last check-in), 1 mile family walk – 11:00 start (1045 last check-in). Closing remarks honoring the veterans – 12:00. Participation is free, there will be an opportunity to donate to VFW Post 2894 for food and Tee Shirts after the event. Register online on Facebook – Chesapeake Bataan Death March or walk.chesapeake@gmail.com.

Sat, Apr 18 - Portsmouth Great American Cleanup Kickoff, Portsmouth City Park, 7:00 am, 140 City Park Ave., Portsmouth. Join us during our Great American Cleanup. Activities include litter pickups and beautification projects throughout the city.  We’ll have a kickoff at City Park at 7 am and then send the volunteers off  to their projects. http://www.portsmouthva.gov/news/2014/greatamericancleanup-2015.pdf

Sat, Apr 18 - Tides Baseball Opening Day, Harbor Park, 150 Park Avenue, Norfolk. All Day. Home opener slated for Saturday, April 18 vs. Durham at 7:05 pm. For pricing and additional information, fans may visit the Harbor Park Box Office, visit norfolktides.com or call (757) 622-2222

Sat, Apr 18 - The First “Walk for the Young Child”, IC Norcomm High School, 9:00 am, 1801 London Blvd, Portsmouth. Join us for a Walk-a-thon as we celebrate the “Week of the Young Child!” We will have music, refreshments, and PRIZES! Register by April 1st and receive a FREE event t-shirt! (T-shirts only guaranteed to the first 100 registrants) Registration Fee: $25/Individual(Event Day $30/Child $10), $100/Team of 5(Event Day $125), $200/Team of 10(Event Day $250). ALL proceeds directly benefit Ida Barbour Early Learning Center | (757) 397-3097 | http://portsvaevents.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/IBELC-walk-a-thon_registration.pdf?76efbe

Sat, Apr 18 - 13th Annual Oasis Social Ministry Walk for Hunger, 9:00 am, 800 Williamsburg Ave, Portsmouth. Help us stomp out hunger with the 2015 Walk for Hunger. Oasis depends on the generosity of our neighbors. Please help raise the funds needed by contributing to the 13th Annual Walk. Oasis has served the local community for 45 years by providing a variety of comprehensive services to local underprivileged, homeless, and homebound citizens. For more information about walking, donating or volunteering, visit www.oasissocialministry.org or call 757-397-6060.

Sat, Apr 18 - Celebrate Earth Day, Virginia Living Museum, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News. Cost: VLM members free, non-members $17 adults, $13 children (ages 3-12). The Virginia Living Museum celebrates Earth Day with special activities for our animals and guests. Observe the animals as they receive toys, treats and other enrichment activities to stimulate natural behaviors. The red wolves and coyotes may devour ice treats, while the raccoons may search for treats in a basket full of newspapers. See raptor programs in the amphitheater. Learn ways to help the environment by reducing, reusing and recycling waste. Visit the Goodson Living Green House and Conservation Gardens for green building and gardening tips.

Sat, Apr 18 - National Park Service Junior Ranger Day, Yorktown Battlefield, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 1000 Colonial Parkway, Yorktown. Special activities for children will enable them to earn a “National” Junior Ranger Patch. Free. 757.898.2410  

Sat, Apr 18 - Earth Week at York River State Park, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, 9801 York River Park Road, Williamsburg. Celebrate Earth Day with our miles of hiking, mountain biking, and multi-purpose trails.  Canoe and kayak rentals will be available for Taskinas Creek and the York River as well as paddle boats for Woodstock Pond.  Join our staff and volunteers for a park clean-up from 10:00 am to noon.

Sat, Apr 18 - Guided Walking Tour of the Isle of Wight County Courthouse Complex, beginning at 10:00 am, 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, Apr 18 - Spring Tasting Tour with Vickie Shufer, Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve, 10:00 am, 4510 Twin Pines Rd, Portsmouth. Local naturalist, foraging expert and author Vickie Shufer will lead the annual Hoffler Creek Foundation Spring Greens Tasting Tour at Hoffler Creek Wildlife Preserve. Vickie will lead guests on a walk through the preserve collecting dandelions; thistle and other springtime edibles while explain each plant’s nutritional value. Participants will then have the opportunity to taste their finds in Spring Greens Salad. The tour is limited to twenty five participants. Hoffler Creek Wildlife Foundation members $8 per person; for non-members $15 per person. For more information or to register please call 757-686-8684.

Sat, Apr 18 - Plot Volunteer Work Day, 10:00 am, Granby St. & Olney Road, Norfolk. Volunteers needed to help get the Plot ready for an exciting spring and summer season. Assist with cleaning out flower beds and planters, trimming back last year’s growth and planting new flowers and plants. Starting at 10:00am, all are welcome! For more information call the Downtown Norfolk Council at 623-1757 or email us at dnc@downtownnorfolk.org

Sat, Apr 18 - Party for the Planet, Virginia Zoo, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, 3500 Granby Street, Norfolk. Bring out your wild side while you learn about conservation steps you can take to protect natural habitats locally and around the world. The event celebrates Earth Day and the animals that share our environment. Zookeepers will demonstrate animal enrichment activities used to promote the Zoo animals’ social, mental and physical health and wellbeing. Visitors can play like a monkey with the enrichment items we give animals from otters to giraffes. Environmental experts will also provide information on the effect all life – including humans – has on the environment, the lives of other species and our lives, too. All activities included with regular admission!

Sat, Apr 18 - Sister Cities French Market, Riverwalk Landing, 10:00 am - 3:00 pm, 331 Water Street, Yorktown. Join Sister Cities Yorktown for the fourth annual authentic French Market and experience all things French with your favorite French products. This annual event celebrates the spirit of the regular Saturday market in Port-Vendres France, Yorktown's sister city since 1990. Traditional market products such as fresh-baked bread, pastries, confitures, chocolates, soaps, wine, along with fresh food items, will be available for purchase. 757.877.2933.

Sat, Apr 18 - Historic Garden Week Home & Garden Tour, The Riverfront at Harbour View, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Tour Headquarters: Riverfront Clubhouse, 5200 River Club Drive, North Suffolk. $30 per person in advance/$35 day of tour. Children 6 and under free. Hosted by the Nansemond River Garden Club, the Elizabeth River Garden Club and the Franklin Garden Club, this tour celebrates the beauty of both land and the river by focusing on 6 private properties in the Harbour View section of Suffolk. The three Clubs have established a partnership with the Nansemond River Preservation Alliance, who will be giving demonstrations throughout the day. 757.514.4130 / http://www.suffolk-fun.com/play/historic-garden-week-suffolk/

Sat, Apr 18 - International Children's Festival, Mill Point Park, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, 100 Eaton Street, Hampton. Free and open to the public. Experience the sights, sounds and tastes of over 35 countries. Live performances, ethnic foods and expo booths feature something for everyone.

Sat, Apr 18 - Earth Day Celebration, Mount Trashmore Park, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, 310 Edwin Dr, Virginia Beach. Refresh your approach to making our world a healthier place with various exhibits, displays, and activities that will give you a chance to discover and explore effective and convenient ways to green your lifestyle. Featuring the AAA Recycling Zone, which includes eCycling, battery round up and child safety seat recycling. Rain Date: April 19. More info at VBgov.com/EarthDay | (757) 385-2990

Sat, Apr 18 - Hampton Heritage Day, Carousel Park, 11:00 am - 4:30 pm, Downtown Hampton. Join in commemorating the melding of the Native American, European and African cultures that have come together to shape our community. Enjoy presentations and performances that will take place on a stage throughout the day as well as other activities in and around Carousel Park in Downtown Hampton, such as hands-on family activities, cultural displays and demonstrations, traditional dance and music, food, heritage arts & crafts, and more to honor those who came before us.

Sat, Apr 18 - The Colley Avenue Music And Arts Festival [CAMAF], 11:00 am - 10:30 pm, on the corner of 41st street and Colley Avenue, Norfolk. CAMAF is dedicated to highlighting local and regional musicians and artists in an attempt to boost the artistic diversity and camaraderie of the community. Featuring an outdoor stage, we will showcase some of the best local and regional bands in Hampton Roads for free. The Festival will also display some of the areas most talented artists. Our goal is to provide an exciting free family event that will help to raise awareness and support for local charities. http://www.colleyavenuemusicfestival.webs.com/

Sat, Apr 18 - Epic Cheer: Tidewater Beach Blast, Ted Constant Convocation Center, 12:00 pm, 4320 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk. Tidewater Beach Blast Cheerleading competition will be held at the Ted. for more information: http://acdaspirit.com/events/tidewater-beach-blast/

Sat, Apr 18 - Touch-a-Truck, Princess Anne Recreation Center, 12 - 3:00 pm, 1400 Nimmo Parkway, Virginia Beach. Experience the thrill of sitting in a fire truck - or an ambulance - or a big recycling truck! Lots of trucks will be featured, including the Virginia Beach Fire Department's monster truck, a police car, a street sweeper, dump truck and more! Other attractions include face painting, children's craft activities and a DJ. Free and open to the public | (757) 385-5950

Sat, Apr 18 - "Aerodrome Wine Classic" - Downton Without the Abbey, Military Aviation Museum, 12 – 5:00 pm, 1341 Princess Anne Rd, Virginia Beach. The Military Aviation Museum will celebrate an occasion we hope embodies the spirit of a bygone age, paying homage to the early aeronauts, the joie de vivre of a generation, and the inseparable link between motoring and aviation. You are invited to savour the varietal bouquets of regional wines, the romance of primitive aeroplanes, and the elegance of artisanal automobiles, at the 2nd-annual "Aerodrome Wine Classic”. Visit www.VBwineclass​ic.com today or telephone 757-721-7767 for tickets.

Sat, Apr 18 - April Pools Day, Bow Creek Recreation Center, 1 - 3:00 pm, 3427 Club House Road, Virginia Beach. We've teamed up with the American Red Cross to introduce youth ages 5-14 to pool and beach safety, canoe and small water craft safety, the use of lifejackets, and self-rescue in the water. Free and open to the public; membership or day pass not required. Please call 385-6212 to register by April 15.

Sat, Apr 18 - April Pools Day, Southside Aquatics Center Indoor Swimming Pool, 1 - 4:00 pm, 1750 Campostella Road, Norfolk. Join us for an afternoon filled with water safety fun. Learn pool and beach safety, the proper use of life jackets, pool rules and more.

Sat, Apr 18 - Global Youth VOLUNTEER Day, Saint Patrick Catholic School, 1 - 4:00 pm, 1000 Bolling Ave., Norfolk. Middle and High School Students (ages 12-19). Learn why volunteering is a pathway to academic and personal success. Global Youth VOLUNTEER Day includes discussion groups, a volunteer fair and a hands-on service project. Earn 2 Hours of Community Service Credit. http://www.volunteerhr.org/gyvd

Sat, Apr 18 - Ranger Stations: Insects, Paradise Creek Nature Park, 2:00 pm, 1141 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth. Have a question for our Ranger? Stop by during the hours listed for more information about the park and borrow supplies to explore the parks wildlife on your own. Explore something new each week! Great for families and children. Free, no registration required. For more information please call 757-399-7487 or visit http://www.paradisecreeknaturepark.org/

Sat, Apr 18 - 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

Sat, Apr 18 - 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

Sat, Apr 18 - Great Bridge Battlefield & Waterways History Foundation's Spring Fling Dinner, Chesapeake Conference Center, 5:30 pm, 700 Conference Center Drive, Chesapeake. $50/person or $360 for a table of 8. Guest Speaker: Roy Randolph, Author of Thomas Hubbard's War. Pre-orders available; please contact the Foundation office. https://app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/GreatBridgeBattlefieldWat/2015SpringFling-1.html

Sat, Apr 18 - Legends of Main Street: A Suffolk Ghost Walk, Suffolk Visitor Center, 7:00 pm, 524 North Main Street, Suffolk. $10 Adults / $8 Seniors, Military and Children 9-12. 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

Sat/Sun, Apr 18/19 - 34th Annual Herb Fest and Sale/12th Annual Spring Arts & Crafts Show, The Fred Heutte Center, Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, 1000 Botetourt Gardens, Norfolk. Over 70 artists. Handmade Homemade Handcrafted Arts and Plant and Herb sale.

Sat/Sun, Apr 18/19 - Spring Native Plant Sale, Virginia Living Museum, Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Sun Noon - 4:00 pm, 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News. Choose from an incredible array of beautiful and unusual native plants for a variety of garden sites and styles, from wet ponds to dry rock gardens. Many of these are excellent plants for attracting butterflies, hummingbirds and other wildlife to your yard. The Virginia Living Museum’s horticulture staff holds this annual sale as a fund-raiser, but the real goal is to introduce the gardening public to the incredible variety of native plants that will do well in the landscape, and to educate gardeners about those which are better left in the wild.

Sat/Sun, Apr 18/19 - SGK Gun Show 2015, Virginia Beach Convention Center, Sat 9:00 am - 5:00 pm, Sun 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach. Founded in 1982 by "Doc" Mendelson, SGK Gun Shows carries on the uniquely American tradition of Gun Shows.  Catering to dealers and public alike, SGK currently produces gun shows on the East Coast.  We are noted for organized, heavily advertised and well-attended shows.  This acknowledgment comes from the administration and staff of the facilities we use, the security companies we employ, and the vendors and public who attend our productions. For the public, we strive to bring the best assortment of firearms and related products together for home defense, collecting, and sport shooting. We hope you enjoy our shows! Admission $10, Children 13-17 $7, Children 12 and under free with adult 21 years or older.

Sun, Apr 19 - Military Appreciation Day, The Mariners’ Museum and Park, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, 100 Museum Dr, Newport News. Free Museum admission for all past and present Military and their immediate family. Enjoy family fun outside on the front lawn and inside the Museum to include face painting and crafts! Food and beverages available for purchase. In partnership with USO. Must present valid ID. 3D movies and paddle boat rentals are an additional charge.

Sun, Apr 19 - Float-a-Rama, Princess Anne Recreation Center, 1 - 4:00 pm, 1400 Nimmo Parkway, Virginia Beach. ​Join us in the pool for a day of huge, fun floats! Enjoy Claw Daddy, Splat!, Sky Totter and Space Mountain. 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

Sun, Apr 19 - Gymkhana: Spring Field Day and Bocce Tournament, Hermitage Museum & Gardens, 1 - 5:00 pm, 7637 North Shore Road, Norfolk. In the early 1900s the Sloane family loved entertaining their friends and local servicemen in the Hermitage gardens at an event they called Gymkhana. Join us for a modern-day twist on this event on Sunday, April 19th including lawn games, kids activities, a cash bar, and food trucks. Register for our first Bocce Tournament on the front lawn and play in teams of two to win a one-year membership and trophy! *Rain date: Sunday, April 26th. Suggested Donation: $5 (includes museum admission). Bocce Registration: *Each registration includes one drink ticket per player, Team (2 Players): $30, Individual: $15 (will be placed with another individual). https://secure.acceptiva.com/?cst=dc8291

Sun, Apr 19 - Therapeutic Recreation Special Event: Miss Abilities Chesapeake Pageant, Chesapeake Conference Center, 6 - 9:00 pm, 700 Conference Center Drive, Chesapeake. If you are a young lady or woman ages 13 and older, have a disAbility, and live in Hampton Roads (Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Smithfield, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg, York or James City County), The Miss Abilities Chesapeake Pageant is the pageant for you! Celebrate your Abilities! Contestants will compete in Casual Wear, Evening Wear, Interview, and Talent Competitions. Every contestant will receive a tiara and trophy for participating. One contestant will be crowned Miss Abilities Chesapeake 2015 by our Mistress of Ceremonies, Miss Virginia 2014, 1st Runner up for Miss America 2015, Courtney Paige Garrett. Information: Jessica Smith, TRS, Office: (757) 382-1328; jbsmith@cityofchesapeake.net

Mon, Apr 20 - 17th Annual Mike Cavish Golf Tournament, Auction & Dinner, Elizabeth Manor Golf & Country Club, 1 Ace Parker Drive Portsmouth. Held every year in tribute to Mike Cavish, restaurateur and Ghent community advocate. Since the early eighties, Mike’s vitality, determination and fun-loving spirit helped create a thriving Ghent business community. Mike was an avid golfer, and the fight against diabetes continues to be a vitally important cause to his family. Tournament proceeds benefit the Strelitz Diabetes Center of Eastern Virginia Medical School. Join us for a great day of golf, and to reconnect with friends while supporting this important cause. - See more at: http://ghentnorfolk.org/event/17th-annual-mike-cavish-golf-tournament-auction-dinner/?instance_id=3433#sthash.UzfaLDqL.dpuf

Mon, Apr 20 - 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, Apr 21 - Bruton Parish's 300th Anniversary, Williamsburg Historic Garden Week, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Colonial Williamsburg. Commemorating the 300th anniversary of Bruton Parish, the church will be decorated with wedding flowers in celebration of the most joyous event in the life of a church. This theme will be reflected in flower arrangements at all tour properties including  the Custis Tenement and Garden, the William and Mary President's House and Garden, the Fife and Drum Inn, Providence Hall, and properties and gardens at Colonial Williamsburg. A floral design demonstration and sale in the Parish Hall is included. This walking tour is appropriate for bus groups and will be especially attractive to history buffs and garden enthusiasts. Properties are within the immediate area of Merchants Square. Visitors will enjoy the proximity to numerous lunch and shopping options offered by local merchants. Questions?  Williamsburg@vagardenweek.org | http://www.vagardenweek.org/main/tourdetails?id=251

Tue, Apr 21 - Fit & Fab Day at the Fountain, Peninsula Town Center, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, Town Square, Hampton. Presented by: Bonfire Magazine & Tidewater Physical Therapy. Every Tuesday thru June 23rd. (FREE & OPEN TO PUBLIC) Featuring: Workouts sessions by Tidewater Physical Therapy Performance Centers, Healthy cooking demonstrations, Merchant vendors, Music to get hearts racing, & more. PLUS! A Weekly Workout Wear Walkway Show- Fit & Fab Day will hold a fashion preview every Tuesday featuring the latest in workout wear from PTC merchants.

Tue, Apr 21 - MOCA Nights with Eats the Streets 757 & Bonfire Magazine, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 5 - 9:00 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. Make it a MOCA Night! See it! Hear it! Speak it! Sing it! Eat it! Drink it! Third Tuesday of the month. 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.

Wed, Apr 22 - CSS Hampton, an-after hours event at the Hampton Roads Naval Museum - RSVP by April 17, 6:00 pm, One Waterside Drive (Inside Nauticus), Norfolk. Come see our latest Civil War accession, a unique battle flag from the gunboat CSS Hampton, courtesy of The Heritage Museum, Dayton, Virginia. Then hear guest speaker Kenneth D. Alford share information about nautical and battle flags found while writing his book Civil War Museum Treasures: Outstanding Artifacts and the Stories Behind Them. Reservations required. Call 757.322.3168 by Friday, April 17.

Wed, Apr 22 - Victims' Rights Week Ceremony, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, 6:30 - 9:00 pm, 2200 Parks Avenue, Virginia Beach. During the week of April 19-25, 2015, the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney (OCA) will join thousands of communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW). The national theme for NCVRW 2015, “Engaging Communities, Empowering victims,” reminds Beach citizens to raise awareness of the rights of crime victims, expand partnerships, engage our community, and assist those in need. The OCA Victim-Witness Program will host a ceremony honoring victims and witnesses. A variety of law enforcement officials and citizens will be honored for their exemplary efforts in the fight against crime. Macie Pridgen - mpridgen@vbgov.com | (757) 385-8545

Thu, Apr 23 - Historic Garden Week in Virginia, Chrysler Historic Houses, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Moses Myers House and Willoughby-Baylor House, Downtown Norfolk. Both the Moses Myers House and Willoughby-Baylor House have urban gardens that are historically representative of their time. The homes, at 323 and 601 E. Freemason Street, are within strolling distance of MacArthur Center downtown. Admission is free to our Historic Houses.

Thu, Apr 23 - ART BREW What are you? Selden Arcade, 6 - 8:00 pm, 208 E. Main Street, Norfolk. Join Hannah Kirkpatrick, Chrysler Museum Glass Studio & Governor's School Instructor, Dr. Norman Goodwin, former Tidewater Art Alliance President, and Vonnie Whitworth & Deborah Small of d'Art for a discussion about fine art vs. fine craft and everything in between. Free! Cash Bar & light refreshments. 664-6880 | mailto:artsnorfolk@gmail.com | norfolkpublicart.org

Thu-Sat, Apr 23-25 - Great Dismal Swamp Birding Festival, Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, 3100 Desert Road. Suffolk. Free. The Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge holds its annual Birding Festival during the height of the spring Neotropical songbird migration, when the greatest diversity of species are on the fly. The festival is part of International Migratory Bird Day. International Migratory Bird Day celebrates the incredible journeys of migratory birds between breeding grounds in North America and their wintering grounds in Mexico, Central and South America. The FREE annual Great Dismal Swamp Birding Festival is open to the public and offers family-fun activities, such as guided bird walks, owl prowls, bus tours and photography workshops. Bird walks and bus tours require reservations. 757.986.3705 / Deloras_Freeman@fws.gov / www.fws.gov/refuge/Great_Dismal_Swamp

Fri, Apr 24 - 16th Annual Suffolk Education Foundation Golf Tournament, Nansemond River Golf Club, 8:00 am Registration, 9:30am Shot Gun Start, 1000 Hillpoint Boulevard, Suffolk. $125 per person, $500 per foursome. Join area business leaders and local residents as they tee-off  to support Suffolk Public Schools with a day of fun at the beautiful Nansemond River Golf Club (NRGC). In addition to the tournament, the day will feature contests, a helicopter golf ball drop, raffles and more! Awards will be given in several categories, such as a closest-to-the-pin contest, a longest drive competition and a hole-in-one contest, with a grand prize of a new car. The winner of the helicopter golf ball drop will receive $500. 757.775.9682 / www.SuffolkEducationFoundation.org

Fri, Apr 24 - Virginia Beach Arbor Day Celebration, Bow Creek Recreation Center, 10 - 11:00 am, 3427 Club House Road, Virginia Beach. This year, Virginia Beach will receive its 35th consecutive “Tree City USA” Award from the Virginia Department of Forestry. Representatives from the Council of Garden Clubs of Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach Beautification Commission, Virginia Beach Master Gardener Tree Stewards, and fourth grade students from Windsor Oaks Elementary School will also participate in the Arbor Day festivities. The Virginia Beach Council of Garden Clubs will host a reception after the ceremony. Virginia Beach residents are invited to attend the ceremony and to celebrate the “Tree City USA” award.

Fri, Apr 24 - 22nd Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament, Bide-A-Wee Golf Corse, 11:00 am, 1 Bide-A-Wee Lane, Portsmouth. Play a round of “Captains Choice” golf with Hall of Fame Inductees and celebrities at Bide-A-Wee Golf Course in Portsmouth. An awards reception with cold beverages and a light dinner will follow in the club house. Tickets to the VIP Reception are included. Registration begins at 9:30 am, Shotgun Start at 11 AM and Awards Reception at 4PM. Ticketed event. Virginia Sports Hall of Fame & Museum. http://www.vshfm.com/documents/HallofFameWeekend2015Brochure2.pdf |  For more information on the 2015 Hall of Fame Weekend call 757-393-8031 or email info@vshfm.com

Fri, Apr 24 - Hampton Child Protection Team Celebrity Luncheon, Crowne Plaza Hotel, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, 700 Settler's Landing Rd. , Hampton. $15 per person or $150 for a table of 10. Enjoy a silent auction, lunch and challenge your fellow diners to a Karaoke sing off all to raise funds for child abuse prevention. Call 225-7054 or 727-2730 for tickets.

Fri, Apr 24 - Volunteer Service Day, Paradise Creek Nature Park, 2:00 pm, 1141 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth. Become a river hero. Help clean up the park, improve plantings and learn river stewardship while you are at it. Projects very by date. Looking to volunteer through military, work, scouts or other? Contact Sarah to arrange a private volunteer event. All ages allowed with adult supervision for those under 18. This is free but registration is required. Please call 757-399-7487 or email ssumoski@elizabethriver.org

Fri, Apr 24 - Captain Mayhem's Schooner Soiree, Riverwalk Landing, 6:30 - 8:30 pm, 331 Water Street, Yorktown. You'll cruise with Captain Mayhem and his Pirate crew aboard the Schooner Alliance, Yorktown's Pirate Ship, for a two hour sunset sail on the York River. There will be live entertainment, cash bar, and heavy hors d'oeuvres. Wear your best Pirate garb. Limited tickets. Advanced reservations recommended. 888.316.6422 | http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Portals/6/15_Schooner%20Soiree%20Flyer.pdf

Fri, Apr 24 - VIP Celebrity Reception, Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, 7:00 pm, 206 High St, Portsmouth. Meet the members of the Class of 2015 at T the Hall of Fame as well as past Inductees and enjoy the unveiling of the Class of 2015 display cases. Open bar and light snacks. Ticketed event. For more information on the 2015 Hall of Fame Weekend call 757-393-8031 or email info@vshfm.com.

Fri/Sat, Apr 24/25 - Chesapeake Master Gardener Volunteers’ Annual Plant Sale, Chesapeake Municipal Center, Fri 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sat 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, Behind the Agriculture Department’s mobile trailer classroom and in front of the Great Bridge Community Center, 212 Holt Dr., Chesapeake. Perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, herbs, & vegetables ready to make your garden green! Expert advice available at sale. For more information, contact the Chesapeake Extension Office at 757-382-6348

Fri/Sat, Apr 24/25 - Spring Heirloom Plant Sale & Garden Weekend, Hermitage Museum & Gardens, Fri 9:00 am - 3:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am - 2:00 pm, 7637 North Shore Road, Norfolk. Rose Garden Cafe brought to you by Sweetwater Cuisine, 11 am-2 pm. Friday -  Free Seminar: Let's Talk Tomatoes! 11 am-12 pm. Saturday - Free Demonstration: Container Gardening 10-11 am. (reserve your seat by emailing mball@thehermitagemuseum.org or calling 757-423-2052 x 207)

Fri/Sat, Apr 24/25 - Yorktown's Hidden Treasures Garden Stroll & Plant Sale, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm, Historic Yorktown Village. Visit five private gardens and enjoy the work of local artists and local school students. The plant sale will have both indoor and outdoor plants for your home and garden. Rain or shine. Historic Yorktown Village. Ticket required. Advance tickets can be purchased at the Gallery at York Hall or Carrot Tree Restaurant in Yorktown. 757.912.5953 or 757.890.4490 | http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Portals/6/15_gdn_stroll.pdf

Fri/Sat, Apr 24/25 - Norfolk NATO Festival, Town Point Park, Norfolk. http://norfolknatofestival.org/events/

Fri-Sun, Apr 24-26 - Spring Break Carnival, Virginia Beach Farmers Market, 12 - 10:00 pm, 3640 Dam Neck Road, Virginia Beach. Family Carnival Rides, Games & Concessions.

Fri-Sun, Apr 24-26 - Hannah's Closet Kids Charity Sale, Virginia Beach Convention Center, Fri 6 - 9:00 pm, Sat 9:00 am - 6:00 pm, Sun 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach. Hannah's Closet is a semi-annual children's consignment sale in Virginia Beach and Williamsburg. They offer quality, name brand children’s items at a fraction of the cost of retail! Email: info@hannahscloset.com | http://www.hannahscloset.com/

Sat, Apr 25 - Tour de Cure Cycling Event, King's Fork High School, Start times vary by route - please see website for details, 351 Kings Fork Road, Suffolk. Whether you're an avid cyclist, prefer a countryside cruise, or fall somewhere in between, there's a Tour route that's perfect for you. We'll offer breakfast for our early risers, provide plenty of rest stops with food, beverages, and photo opportunities along each route, and have a well-deserved post-ride meal waiting for you after you cross the finish line (looking fabulous, no doubt!). The Hampton Roads Tour de Cure is your chance to help Stop Diabetes®. Tour is a revolution—of bicycle wheels, a chance to stop a disease that is an epidemic. Pick up your bike and help us fight! $25 Registration / $200 Fundraising Minimum. 757.424.6662 x3276 | www.diabetes.org/hamptonroadsvatour

Sat, Apr 25 - Run The DoG St. 5K Challenge, 7:30 - 10:45 am, Merchant's Square, Williamsburg. Running or walking, this is a scenic and unique race course that everyone should experience at least once! It starts on Prince George St., and then runs through the College of William and Mary and ends in Colonial Williamsburg. Runners will pass the Governors Palace and the Capitol Building before finishing the final 800 meters on the famed Duke of Gloucester St. Age groups in 5 years beginning at 9 & under extending to 70 and over. http://thecolonialsports.com/filemanager/cms/retrieve/1422296815/745/rtd-flyer-html-2015.html

Sat, Apr 25 - Mayor's Cup T-Ball Classic, Grounds of City Hall complex, 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, 306 Cedar Road, Chesapeake. WANTED: Boys and Girls (also children with special needs), Ages 5-7 years old, Residents of Chesapeake. The Mayor's Cup T-Ball Classic will be held at the City Hall Complex (behind City Hall). Check-in is at 8 am and T-Ball will be from 8:30 am - Noon. A rain date has been set for Sunday, April 26, 2015, from 2 - 5:00 pm. This is a free of change, one day event! Space is limited. Please register by April 17, 2015. http://www.cityofchesapeake.net/Assets/forms/departments/bureau_community_programs/mayors-t-ball-classic-application-2015.pdf

Sat, Apr 25 - Spring Cleaning and Rummage Sale, Tidewater Community College Chesapeake Campus, 8:00 am - 1:00 pm, 1428 Cedar Rd, Chesapeake. Tidewater Community College Chesapeake Campus is hosting a Spring Cleaning and Rummage Sale event. Anyone wishes to reserve table space to sell their goods may contact Jill Hartney at jhartney@tcc.edu. Space is limited with a small non-refundable fee going to Relay for Life.

Sat, Apr 25 - Hall of Fame Inductee Autograph Session and Sports Card & Memorabilia Show, 9:00 am, Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, 206 High St, Portsmouth. From 9 am–2 pm, buy sports cards and other memorabilia from participating dealers. From 12–1 pm, Meet the members from the Class of 2015 and collect autographs from them. Autograph sessions included with museum admission. Ticketed event. For more information on the 2015 Hall of Fame Weekend call 757-393-8031 or email info@vshfm.com.

Sat, Apr 25 - 62nd Annual Norfolk NATO Festival Parade of Nations, 10:00 am, Waterside Drive and Downtown Norfolk. The Norfolk NATO Festival is proud to present its annual Parade of Nations, the longest continuous parade in Hampton Roads and the only Parade in the United States honoring NATO! Over 100 Parade Units with local and visiting high school bands, US and International Military bands, and colorful floats which represent each of the 28 NATO Member Nations! Local community organization and Festival partners are also featured. Free and Open to the Public

Sat, Apr 25 - Phoebus Spring Fling, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Mellen St., Hampton. Family fun for all! Free Child ID, bounce houses, games for kids, community info booths, local artists, handmade crafts, vendors, pet adoptions and more! All of the vendors will be along the 3 blocks of Mellen Street. 9 Food Vendors nearest the corner of Hope/Mellen. The Beer & Wine plus two rock bands will be nearest the corner of Mallory/Mellen. We have 4 acts for the Curry St stage. The kid zone, several nonprofits, along with Bass Pro Shop will be in the field nearest Mellen/Willard.

Sat, Apr 25 - 9th Annual Hampton Roads Rubber Duck Race 2015, Great Bridge, 11:00 - 3:00 pm, 116 Callison Drive, Chesapeake. This one of Hampton Roads' signature family events - over 2,000 spectators from around the region come out to cheer on their lucky ducks and enjoy a day of fun activities, food, music and games for the entire family. The Hampton Roads Rubber Duck Race is a free event, open to the public. At 2:15 pm approximately 10,000 rubber ducks will be dropped from a crane into the Intracoastal Waterway in Chesapeake floating along an enclosed area. The first ducks to reach the finish line will be winning prizes for duck participants. All proceeds from the event will benefit CHIP of South Hampton Roads, a local nonprofit organization whose focus is to ensure that all children in our community start school healthy and ready to learn and succeed. For more information or for sponsorship opportunities, please contact 757- 543-9100, ext. 204 or email tsparagno@chipshr.org. There's more information here: www.hamptonroadsduckrace.org

Sat, Apr 25 - "History of Canning" Program at the Isle of Wight County Museum, 11:00 am, 103 Main Street, Downtown Smithfield. Necessity breeds invention. During the first years of the Napoleonic Wars, the French government offered a cash award of 12,000 francs to any inventor who could devise a cheap and effective method of preserving large amounts of food. Today, based on this success, many of us are still preserving our own food for future consumption. Join us for this informative lecture – plus tips and recipes from the Virginia Cooperative Extension. Bring one of your own canned goods to swap with other attendees! For more information call 757.356.1223.

Sat, Apr 25 - Antiques Appraisal Fair and Sale, Surry County Historical Society, 11:00 am until 3:30 pm, 205 Enos Farm Drive, Dendron. This event is sponsored by the Surry County Historical Society. Tickets can be purchased at the door on the day of the Appraisal Fair. Ticket Pricing: $10 per item, $25 for 3 items, $40 for 5 items, $7 per item for Historical Society members. For more information, contact the Historical Society at 757-294-0404 | http://www.surrycountyva.gov/uploads/docs/SCHS%20Antique%20Appraisal%20April%202015.pdf

Sat, Apr 25 - Suffolk Wine Festival, Former Tidewater Community College Campus, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm, 7000 College Drive, North Suffolk. Tickets required; $35 advance/$40 at gate. The 1st Annual Suffolk Wine Festival will be held on the beautiful banks of the James River in Northern Suffolk. Gates open at 11 am with tastings starting at 11:30. Live music by 10 Spot. Featured Wineries include: Chatham Vineyards, Delfosse Vineyards, Lake Anna Winery, Lovingston Winery, Rockbridge Vineyard, Rosemont Vineyard, White Hall, Williamsburg Winery and Castle Hill Cider. Featured breweries include: Devil’s Backbone, St. George, Smartmouth, Young Veterans and O’Connor. sponsored by the Suffolk Business Women | www.SuffolkWineFest.com

Sat, Apr 25 - American Indian Pow Wow, Mount Trashmore Park, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm, 310 Edwin Drive, Virginia Beach. ​Spirited music, intriguing dance, and appetizing food will have you captivated with Native American culture. Now in its 15th year, this enlightening and colorful event also features authentic and Indian-inspired crafts for sale and display. For More Information: Parks & Recreation Special Events Office, fun@VBgov.com, (757) 385-2990

Sat, Apr 25 - Mambo Room Dance-a-thon, 11:00 am - 11:00 pm, 2200 Colonial Ave., Norfolk. Dance for a cause to raise money for CHKD. The event features dance lessons throughout day, performances by local dance groups, DJs, fun contests & prizes, refreshments, and dance social. www.mamboroom.com/danceathon

Sat, Apr 25 - "All Points Portsmouth": A Historical and Fun Scavenger Hunt, 1:00 pm, Portside, 6 Crawford Parkway, Portsmouth. Form a four person team and hunt for treasure and vie for amazing prizes. All Points Portsmouth is an adventurous, fun filled scavenger hunt across beautiful and historic Portsmouth, VA. Teams race to beat the clock as they uncover clues and discover long hidden streets of this unique seaport city. For more information please call 757-397-8473.

Sat, Apr 25 - 4th Annual Virginia Sports Hall of Fame and Museum Induction Banquet, Renaissance Hotel & Waterfront Conference Center, 5:30 pm, 425 Water St, Portsmouth. Welcome and join the Class of 2015. The evening features an open bar reception followed by dinner and the 2015 Induction Ceremony. Registration at 4:30 PM; Reception 5:30 PM and Dinner and Induction Ceremony at 6:30 PM. VSHF Member Single Ticket, $75. Non-member, $100. Banquet Table for 8, $600. For more information on the 2015 Hall of Fame Weekend call 757-393-8031 or email info@vshfm.com. | http://www.vshfm.com

Sat, Apr 25 - Ranger Stations: Navigation, Paradise Creek Nature Park, 6:00 pm, 1141 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth. Have a question for our Ranger? Stop by during the hours listed for more information about the park and borrow supplies to explore the parks wildlife on your own. Explore something new each week! Great for families and children. Free, no registration required. For more information please call 757-399-7487 or visit.

Sat, Apr 25 - Dockside Seafood Feast, Graham & Rollins’ working waterfront dock, 6 - 9:00 pm, 19 Rudd Lane, Hampton. Sample eight seafood entrees and enjoy Hampton's scenic working waterfront to support the Hampton History Museum. Complimentary beer and wine, Silent Auction. Crab Cakes, She Crab Soup, Blue Crab Claws, Fried Oysters, Oysters on the ½ Shell, Hush Puppies, Fried Flounder, Sautéed Scallops. $75 per person, Limited number of tickets available, Call the Gift Shop at 757-727-6824.  All proceeds benefit the Hampton History Museum. Sponsors: Pomoco Auto Group, Old Point National Bank, Graham & Rollins

Sat, Apr 25 - HBCU Greek Explosion Step Show, nTelos Wireless Pavilion, 16 Crawford Cir, Portsmouth. Join the HBCU Greek Explosion Step Show featuring the fraternities and sororities of the Divine 9. For registration and information please visit www.pavilionconcerts.com or call 757-463-1940. $19.35 | http://www.pavilionconcerts.com/

Sat/Sun, Apr 25/26 - Atlantic Coast Grand Prix Volleyball Tournament, Virginia Beach Convention Center, Sat 8:00 am - 9:00 pm, Sun 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, 1000 19th Street, Virginia Beach. Atlantic Coast Grand Prix Volleyball Tournament. Doors open at 7 am. (757) 498-5052 | http://www.playtva.org/

Sat/Sun, Apr 25/26 - Tidewater African Violet Society Show and Sale, Norfolk Botanical Garden, 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, 6700 Azalea Garden Rd., Norfolk. Don’t miss this is an AVSA (African Violet Society of America) judged show.  The judges will be awarding ribbons on Sat. morning and the show will open to the public at 1:00 PM.  The show consists of horticulture, design exhibits and educational displays, which will include plant and flower arrangements, underwater designs, terrariums, dish gardens and natural plantings. Great prices, Many varieties on display, Experts on hand to answer questions.

Sat/Sun, Apr 25/26 - Spring Native Plant Sale, Virginia Living Museum, Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm, Sun Noon - 4:00 pm, 524 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News. Choose from an incredible array of beautiful and unusual native plants for a variety of garden sites and styles, from wet ponds to dry rock gardens. Many of these are excellent plants for attracting butterflies, hummingbirds and other wildlife to your yard. The Virginia Living Museum’s horticulture staff holds this annual sale as a fund-raiser, but the real goal is to introduce the gardening public to the incredible variety of native plants that will do well in the landscape, and to educate gardeners about those which are better left in the wild.

Sat/Sun, Apr 25/26 - The Virginia Beach Downtown Art Fair, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Central Park Plaza, Town Center, Virginia Beach. This two-day outdoor gallery-style festival will showcase the work of the artists selected from among hundreds of applicants for their quality original artwork. The artistic media will be diverse and will include paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, glass, wood, handmade jewelry, collage, mixed media, and more. The show will take place at the Town Center of Virginia Beach. Artists will line their booths starting at the corner of Virginia Beach Blvd. and Central Park Avenue, continuing along Main Street. Festival patrons are encouraged to engage the artists as they explore the eclectic exhibits and learn about each artist’s creative process.

Sat/Sun, Apr 25/26 - Pirates Invade Yorktown, Riverwalk Landing, 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, 331 Water Street, Yorktown. Pirates, representing seafaring life in the late 17th and 18th-centuries, invade Yorktown. Visit the encampment, watch the cannon firing demonstrations, and sing with pirates. Riverwalk Landing and Watermen's Museum. Free. 757.890.3500 | http://www.yorkcounty.gov/Portals/6/15_Pirates%20schedule.pdf

Sun, Apr 26 - 52nd Annual Art on The Square, Merchants' Square Art Show, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, Williamsburg. Art on the Square is a juried show that is dedicated to providing original, high quality, handcrafted and diverse mediums of art. It is located on Duke of Gloucester and North Boundary Street in Merchants Square, Williamsburg, Virginia. The event features more than 170 artists and is free and open to the public. Proceeds from artist booth fees are donated to visual and performing arts organizations throughout the greater Williamsburg area including Williamsburg, James City and York counties. http://www.williamsburgjuniors.org/artonthesquare.html

Sun, Apr 26 - Taste of India, Ted Constant Convocation Center, 11:00 am until 7:00 pm, Hampton Blvd., Norfolk. Come on down Hampton Roads to the 8th Annual Taste of India - get a Taste of India without leaving Hampton Roads! Indian food and a mind blowing set of cultural performances! We're excited to see you there!

Mon, Apr 27 - 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, Apr 28 - Fit & Fab Day at the Fountain, Peninsula Town Center, 11:00 am - 4:00 pm, Town Square, Hampton. Presented by: Bonfire Magazine & Tidewater Physical Therapy. Every Tuesday thru June 23rd. (FREE & OPEN TO PUBLIC) Featuring: Workouts sessions by Tidewater Physical Therapy Performance Centers, Healthy cooking demonstrations, Merchant vendors, Music to get hearts racing, & more. PLUS! A Weekly Workout Wear Walkway Show- Fit & Fab Day will hold a fashion preview every Tuesday featuring the latest in workout wear from PTC merchants.

Tue, Apr 28 - ODU vs. UVA Baseball Game, Harbor Park, 7:00 pm, 150 Park Avenue, Norfolk. The Old Dominion Monarchs will host the Cavaliers from the University of Virginia in this NCAA baseball matchup.

Wed, Apr 29 - Flavors of Isle of Wight, The Smithfield Center, 6 – 8:00 pm, 220 N. Church Street, Downtown Smithfield. Flavors of Isle of Wight will feature restaurants and food businesses from across the county serving samples of their signature dishes, outstanding wines and brews, as well as entertainment and a silent auction. Tickets are $25 per person/$12 for children (12 & under), and proceeds will benefit scholarships to be awarded through the Isle of Wight Community Foundation.  No participation fee for food vendors. To reserve tickets or to receive a scholarship application, contact the chamber at 757.357.3502 or via e-mail at mmarchant@theisle.org.

Thu, Apr 30 - Chesapeake Public Safety Building Ground Breaking Ceremony, 2:00 pm, 2100 S. Military Highway, Chesapeake. Ground Breaking Ceremony for the new Public Safety Building.

Thu, Apr 30 - Dining Out for Life AIDS benefit, 5 - 9:00 pm, Various restaurants in Hampton. Eat dinner at The Point or Six in Phoebus; Venture downtown; Baci or Regatta Grille in Coliseum Central, and the restaurant will donate 25% of the food and alcohol sales to ACCESS AIDS Care. All money raised will help provide prevention education and outreach for men, women and youth at risk for HIV/AIDS, and supportive services. All money raised will help provide prevention education and outreach for men, women and youth at risk for HIV/AIDS, and supportive services.

Thu, Apr 30 - Dining Out for Life Ghent, All Day, Historic Ghent, Norfolk. YOU can make a difference in the lives of thousands of your neighbors, simply by Dining Out for Life.  Thousands of diners across the country will be sitting down and eating a meal to make a difference and spread awareness in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Over 60 restaurants in Hampton Roads (many in Ghent) are participating in the 12th Annual Dining Out for Life event!  These restaurants will be donating a minimum of 25% of total sales back to ACCESS AIDS Care. For a list of participating restaurants, visit www.diningoutforlife.com/hamptonroads/restaurants/

Thu, Apr 30 - Photographic Tour of Elmwood Cemetery, Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library, 7 - 8:00 pm, Norfolk.  Take a guided tour of historic Elmwood Cemetery from the comfort of your seat! Join the Norfolk Bureau of Cemeteries’ Bobette Nelson as she provides a pictorial version of the popular Final Friday Twilight Tour. Hear the tragic & triumphant stories of notable Norfolkians resting within Elmwood's walls. Learn about the ostentatious memorial art & iconography that defined an era. FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. RSVP by Tuesday, April 28th if you plan to attend. Email Cemeteries@Norfolk.gov or call 757-510-5879.  Light refreshments provided by the Norfolk Society for Cemetery Conservation.

LOCAL THEATER / CONCERTS / LECTURES / TALKS

Now thru Apr 19 - "Strange Fruit", Festival Green Space, 9:30 pm, Downtown Norfolk. The last time Strange Fruit set up in Norfolk, the Australian performance art troupe played like a fantasy come to life. Propped on flexible rods that stood 20 feet or so into the air, the performers looked like flowers, or fairies, come to life, swaying in the breeze as they moved into and apart from each other like weightless dancers. This week, the fruit is back in season as these artists share their magic every night at 9:30 through Sunday. The show is free, and worth a trip downtown to see one of these rare moments of wonder.

Now thru Apr 19 - “Breath & Imagination”, The Wells Theatre, Tue 7:00 pm, Wed-Sat 8:00 pm, Sat 4:00 pm, Sun 2:00 pm, Tazwell Street, Norfolk. By Daniel Beaty. From slave spirituals on a Georgia plantation to classical opera for the King and Queen, the son of a former slave sings his way to worldwide celebrity and blazes a path many others would follow as the first African-American classical vocalist to sing internationally. A true story of hope and perseverance unfolds onstage through the memories, struggles and songs of Roland Hayes.

Now thru Apr 19 - Victoria Melody: "Major Tom", VA Arts Fest, Robin Hixon Theater, 8:00 pm, 440 Bank Street, Norfolk. A smash at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, and a "perceptive joy, thanks largely to Melody's canny comic timing" (The Times), this quirky one-woman (and one-dog) show poses hilarious and yet thoughtful questions about our human fascination with celebrity and beauty. Based on her own experiences, performer and artist Victoria Melody weaves a wildly witty tale of how an average 34-year-old became a beauty queen and how her unruly pet basset hound, Major Tom, became a championship show dog.

Thu, Apr 16 - WHRO's The Scene Mini Film Festival, Peninsula Fine Arts Center, 6:00 pm, 101 Museum Drive, Newport News. Free for members; $3 for nonmembers. The producers of WHRO's web series "The Scene" will screen several of their mini documentaries, focused on the most creative minds of the 757. Meet the producers, along with two of the film subjects: artist Asa Jackson and spoken word artist Godchild the Omen.

Thu, Apr 16 - Phoebus Film Club Series: "The House Behind the Wall", The American Theater, 7:30 pm, 125 E Mellen St., Hampton. This independent horror is an impressive throwback to the old days of the genre. The House Behind the Wall uses subtlety, tension and creepiness to make a lasting impression.

Thu, Apr 16 - The Acting Co. presents: Macbeth, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, Music & Theatre Hall, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. One of Shakespeare’s darkest and most powerful tragedies, “Macbeth” dramatizes the psychological and political impact of when evil is chosen to satisfy the ambition for power. Performed by The Acting Company, and directed by Ian Belknap, this production is backed by the 40-year-plus history of one of America’s finest acting troupes. Founded in 1972 by the legendary John Houseman and current Producer Margot Harley, The Acting Company promotes theater and arts education all across America.

Fri, Apr 17 - Colonial Williamsburg Fifes & Drums, Merchants' Square, 2:30 - 3:00 pm, Williamsburg. Members of Colonial Williamsburg's Fifes and Drums visit Merchants Square one Saturday each month. Beginning approximately 2:30 p.m., the Fifes and Drums play music and interact with onlookers in the Square, answering questions from the audience.

Fri, Apr 17 - The Anomaly Tour Featuring: Lecrae, Ted Constant Convocation Center, 7:00 pm, 4320 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk. Two time Grammy Award winning artist Lecrae will be bringing his national Anomaly Tour to the Ted. Lecrae made history as the first hip-hop artist to win a Grammy Award in the Best Gospel Album category for his sixth studio album Gravity, which sold 70,490 units in its first week – making it #1 Rap Album, #1 Independent Album, #3 on the Billboard 200.  

Fri, Apr 17 - The Acting Co. presents: Mark Twain's "A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court", Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, Music & Theatre Hall, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. America’s favorite humorist, Mark Twain, penned this satirical tale of time travel, which takes a Connecticut tourist visiting England from the 19th century back to England’s medieval period (6th century) and the time of legendary King Arthur. Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher, performed by The Acting Company, and directed by Ian Belknap, this production is backed by the 40-year-plus history of one of America’s finest acting troupes. Founded in 1972 by the legendary John Houseman and current Producer Margot Harley, The Acting Company promotes theater and arts education all across America.

Fri, Apr 17 - Live Opera: Cosi Fan Tutte, By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Kimball Theatre, 8:00 pm, Merchants' Square, Williamsburg. Cosi Fan Tutte or “So Do All Women” is a brilliant sitcom, 1790-style, with text by Lorenzo DaPonte—a smart, sophisticated, and very funny comedy full of clever insights. Two sisters and their beaus are certain that their love is eternal, only to find themselves facing the fickle nature of human emotion.

Fri, Apr 17 - Chris Brubeck Triple Play, VA Arts Fest, The George M. & Linda H. Kaufman Theatre, 8:00 pm, The Chrysler Museum of Art, One Memorial Place, Norfolk. Presented by Virginia Arts Fest. Following in the footsteps of his famous dad, legendary jazz pianist and composer Dave Brubeck, Chris Brubeck swings with his trio.

Fri, Apr 17 - Todd Wilson, organ, VA Arts Fest, Christ and St. Luke's Church, 8:00 pm, 560 W Olney RD, Norfolk. Presented by Virginia Arts Fest. There is perhaps no more thrilling sound in music than a crescendo on a mighty pipe organ — the sound fills your chest and takes your breath away. Organist Todd Wilson, who is regarded across America and around the world as one of today's finest concert organists, has performed with such great orchestras as the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the Cleveland Orchestra. Popular for his improvised accompaniments to classic silent films, Wilson will accompany the Laurel and Hardy comedy short "Big Business" (1929) in this performance at the beautiful and historic Christ & St. Luke's Church in Norfolk

Fri, Apr 17 - Indigo Girls, with Symphony Orchestra, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 8:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Twenty years after they began releasing records as the Indigo Girls, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers have politely declined the opportunity to slow down with age. With a legacy of releases and countless U.S. and international tours behind them, the Indigo Girls have forged their own way in the music business.

Fri, Apr 17 - AltDaily Presents: The Princess Bride, The Naro Expanded Cinema, 9:00 pm, Ghent, 1507 Colley Ave., Norfolk. Scaling the Cliffs of Insanity, battling Rodents of Unusual Size, facing torture in the Pit of Despair. It goes down on April 17th at 9pm. As always, there will be O'Connor beer flowing in the theater, and the showing benefits the Muse Writing Center.

Fri-Sun, Apr 17-19 - Virginia Musical Theatre: Legally Blonde The Musical, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, Fri/Sat 8:00 pm, Sat/Sun 2:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. Harvard's beloved blonde takes the stage by pink storm in this fun, upbeat musical about self-discovery. Based on the adored movie, LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL stays true to form with a peppy score and playful book. Full to the brim with tongue-in-cheek, show stopping numbers and energetic dance routines, this hilarious modern fairytale is ridiculously entertaining from start to finish.

Sat, Apr 18 - Dale’s Pale Ale and SevenBar Aviation Present: 'The Steep Canyon Rangers', The American Theater, 8:00 pm, 125 E. Mellen Street, Hampton. These days, it’s hard to talk about the Steep Canyon Rangers without mentioning Steve Martin. After meeting at a party and connecting immediately, Martin invited the band to tour and record with him. Their 2011 collaboration Rare Bird Alert was nominated for a Grammy, and later that year, they won IBMA’s Entertainer of the Year Award. What has emerged is a real collaboration of seven consummate musicians creating music that they are passionate about, and blending it with humor to form a sophisticated show.

Sat, Apr 18 - Home Free, Attucks Theatre, 8:00 pm, 1010 Church St., Norfolk. When country a cappella band Home Free was crowned Season 4 Champions of NBC's The Sing-Off in 2013, their victory was by no means the beginnings of a career for the five country stars from Minnesota… rather it was a satisfying culmination of nearly a decade of hard work and commitment to a vocal craft growing in popularity. Home Free continues to entertain audiences nationwide with their high-energy show peppered with quick-witted humor that meshes Nashville standards with pop hits dipped in country flavor.  They arrive to town on the heels of their debut release on Columbia Records, "Crazy Life".

Sat/Sun, Apr 18/19 - VSO: Bluebeard's Castle with sets by Dale Chihuly, VA Arts Festival, Chrysler Hall, Sat 8:00 pm, Sun 3:00 pm, 215 Saint Paul’s Boulevard, Norfolk. A spectacle of sight and sound; a haunting story with psychological twists and turns! Stunning glass sculptures by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly take visual enchantment to new heights. Béla Bartók's Bluebeard's Castle is the murderous tale of Bluebeard and his new wife Judith's introduction to his lurid past. Bartók envisioned seven doors, behind each a secret to be revealed — and in this stunning production the seven doors are towering works of glass and light by Chihuly. This groundbreaking production of Bartók's only opera, first staged by the Seattle Symphony Orchestra to sold- out houses and performed here by the acclaimed Virginia Symphony Orchestra, employs Chihuly's vision to riveting effect.

Sun, Apr 19 - Chevra Cinema: Europa, Europa, Jewish Museum & Cultural Center, 2:00 pm, 607 Effingham St, Portsmouth. $5 donation at the door. Europa, Europa is a 1990 film directed by Agnieska Holland. Its original German title Hitlerjunge Salomon, i.e. “Hitler Boy Salomon” is the winner of a Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Film. A boy in Nazi German, trying to conceal that he is Jewish, joins the Hitler Youth. Jewish Museum & Cultural Center. For more information, please call 757-391-9266 or visit http://www.jewishmuseumportsmouth.org/

Sun, Apr 19 - Sunday's at Four presents "Meet Mark Twain", Christ Episcopal Church, 3:30 pm, 111 S. Church Street, Downtown Smithfield. Ryan Clemens, a distant relative of Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) will present his one-man show impersonating the venerated American author and humorist. Ryan, a Virginia Stage Company resident artist, has worked in theaters throughout the country providing classes and workshops. He will be accompanied by Reg Lanning, a banjo player with riverboat experience, who will provide a special pre-concert at 3:30 pm and an interlude during the performance. A Sunday's at Four series performance. Tickets: Adults $20 Students $5. For further information call 757.375.9140

Mon, Apr 20 - Voices From the Margins Play Reading Series, Wells Theatre, 7 - 9:30 pm, 108 East Tazewell St., Norfolk. VSC seeks to empower the voices of contemporary playwrights that illuminate the post-millennial human condition and strengthen the local artistic community by producing thought provoking play readings reflective of the variety of experiences within our community. Join VSC for their third reading: “L’il Benny” by British playwright, Che Walker. 6:30 pm: Come, grab a drink and chat with local artists, 7:00 pm: Third Play Reading.

Tue, Apr 21 - The Ugly Truth Behind Human Trafficking, Hampton University Student Center Ballroom, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, 100 E Queen Street, Hampton. Seminar will discuss how to define and identify victims of human trafficking, legislation and will feature speakers including Hampton and Newport News Commonwealth's Attorneys and human trafficking survivors. Free and open to the public. 727-5338

Tue, Apr 21 - "Green Fire: Aldo Leopold and a Land Ethic for Our Time", Performing & Creative Arts Center, 7 - 9:00 pm, 300 Butler Farm Road, Hampton. Leopold is renowned for his work as an educator, philosopher, forester, ecologist, and wilderness advocate. The film shares highlights from Leopold’s life and extraordinary career, explaining how he shaped conservation in the twentieth century and still inspires people today.

Wed, Apr 22 - Virginia Beach Forum: Dick Vitale, College Basketball Analyst ABC Sports and ESPN, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. One of America's most beloved sports personalities, Dick Vitale exudes optimism and a boundless passion for consistently giving 110% − qualities that put him on the path towards coaching and broadcasting success. For Vitale, winning "The Game of Life" begins with a can-do attitude that he himself inspires in audiences, motivating them towards achieving their individual and organizational goals by applying lessons from the sports world. His strong character, genuine personality and endless energy permeate the entire room as he helps audiences become revitalized, ready to tackle any circumstance and meet life's challenges head on.

Wed, Apr 22 - An Evening with Wayne Brady, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. For over a decade, Wayne Brady has been entertaining audiences with his acting, improv, singing and dancing on television, film and the stage. He began his career working for both the Disney World and Universal theme parks, but his career took off in 1998 with “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” for which he won an Emmy Award. Brady went on to host his own syndicated talk/variety show, “The Wayne Brady Show,” winning more Emmys. He has also appeared on Broadway, the silver screen and various sitcoms and earned a Grammy nod for Best Traditional R&B Vocal Performance for his single, “A Change is Gonna Come,” off his debut musical album “A Long Time Coming.”

Thu, Apr 23 - Lecture Series: Warren Riess, “The Ship that Held Up Wall Street”, Mariner's Museum & Park, 7 - 9:00 pm, 100 Museum Drive, Newport News. In January 1982, the remains of an eighteenth-century ship were found in Lower Manhattan during a pre-construction excavation. Nautical archaeologists Warren Reiss and Sheli Smith were brought in to direct the excavation and analysis of the ship’s remains. As it turns outs, the mystery ship’s age and type meant that its careful study would help answer some important questions about the commerce and transportation of an earlier era of American history.

Thu, Apr 23 - BBC Concert Orchestra, Keith Lockhart Principal Conductor, Charlie Albright Piano Soloist, Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. One of the United Kingdom’s most versatile ensembles, the BBC Concert Orchestra performs regularly at Queen Elizabeth Hall, London, and Watford Colosseum.  Principal Conductor Keith Lockhart works alongside Principal Guest Conductor Johannes Wildner and Conductor Laureate Barry Wordsworth. Lockhart has been Conductor of the Boston Pops for 18 seasons and Wildner brings over a decade’s experience with the Vienna Philharmonic.

Thu-Sun, Apr 23-26 - Virginia International Tattoo 2015, VA Arts Festival, Scope Arena, Thu-Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, 201 East Brambleton Avenue, Norfolk. The Virginia International Tattoo — long regarded as the most patriotic of the world’s great tattoos — thrills audiences year after year with an awe-inspiring spectacle of music and might. A brand new show every year, the Tattoo is more than a performance, it is an experience. Be sure to bring the Tattoo tradition into your life this year! Each year's Tattoo is different, with new performers from across the globe, new themes of honor and patriotism and state of-the-art technical effects which will leave you amazed. What never changes — the massed pipes and drums, a profound sense of pride and an amazingly inspirational finale. This is the Tattoo experience that you and your group will love. Come out early and take part in the TATTOO HULLABALOO, a free festive celebration on Scope Plaza three hours prior to each performance.

Fri, Apr 24 - Governor School of the Arts Jazz Band Performance, MacArthur Mall, 5 - 7:00 pm, Downtown Norfolk. The Governor’s School for the Arts Jazz Band will be performing in the Center every Friday from 5-7pm beginning April 24th and continuing through August 28th.

Fri, Apr 24 - Eric Church: The Outsiders World Tour, Hampton Coliseum, 7:00 pm, 1000 Coliseum Dr., Hampton. Country star Eric Church brings “The Outsiders World Tour” to Hampton Coliseum.

Fri, Apr 24 - Friday Night Hoedown: 'Back Porch Boogie Band', Virginia Beach Farmers Market, 7 - 10:00 pm, 3640 Dam Neck Road, Virginia Beach. Live Music Every Friday night from 7 -10 pm. Bring a chair and/or dance to your favorite country tunes.

Fri, Apr 24 - Old Dominion University Concert Choir Musical Showcase, Willet Hall, 7:30 pm, 3701 Willett Drive, Portsmouth. The Old Dominion University Concert Choir is an auditioned group of 65 singers primarily composed of music majors and minors. This group has a large repertoire of various styles music from classical to popular. They have also established a reputation for premiering the works of living composers, performing the new works of local and international composers.

Fri, Apr 24 - HBCU Greek Explosion 2K15 STEP SHOW, nTelos Wireless Pavilion, 7:30 pm, Downtown Portsmouth. Join the HBCU Greek Explosion Step Show featuring the fraternities and sororities of the Divine 9. For registration and information please visit www.pavilionconcerts.com or call 757-463-1940.

Fri/Sat, Apr 24/25 - Menopause: The Musical, Ferguson Center for the Arts, Fri 8:00 pm, Sat 2 & 8:00 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Come join our sisterhood! Four women at a lingerie sale have nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what millions of women worldwide have been laughing about for 13 years! It’s the Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change!

Fri, Apr 24 thru May 10 - Big River, Regent University Theatre, Fri/Sat 7:30, Sun 2:30 pm, Main Theater, 1000 Regent University Drive, Virginia Beach. Book by William Hauptman, Music & Lyrics by Roger Miller, Adapted from the novel by Mark Twain, Directed by Derek Leonidoff. Travel the mighty Mississippi with Huck Finn and runaway slave Jim in Mark Twain's soul-rousing tale of friendship and freedom. TIME magazine hails this Tony Award winner, "A classic American musical with the most fetching score of the decade."

Fri, Apr 24 thru May 10 - Bedroom Farce, Peninsula Community Theater, 10251 Warwick Blvd., Newport News. By British playwright Alan Ayckbourn. A comedy that contains a melee of events involving certain philandering characters, all occurring within similar moments of one another. Alan Ayckbourn’s clever uses of time and space makes this a very intricate and sophisticated comedy while also portraying the deteriorating and rebuilding of relationships among young couples. This play explores the differences in relationships between the younger and older generations while capitalizing on certain unlikely issues that may strain the relationships even further.

Sat, Apr 25 - The Curator's Tea, Hampton University Museum, 12:30 - 3:30 pm, Hampton University. Special Guest, FRANCISCO MORA CATLETT! TICKETS are $40 per person and requires payment by Friday, April 17, 2015! For more information, or to RSVP and pay, contact Dr. Vanessa Thaxton-Ward at 757.727.5508 or email vanessa.thaxton-ward@hamptonu.edu

Sat, Apr 25 - The Ekphrasis: When Visual Art Becomes Literary, Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center, 1:00 pm, 400 High Street, Portsmouth. Local creative writers use visual art as a jumping board for creating new art, into the form of the written word. The authors will read their writings introducing new spoken creations in the form of essays, short stories and poems. The writing are based on artworks displayed in one of two exhibit’s including CODING: Artists & Their Creative DNA and Portsmouth Here & Now. Along with others, author Jeff Hecker will headline the reading. Hecker is a Norfolk native with a degree from Old Dominion University.

Sat, Apr 25 - "Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairy Tale", Suffolk Center for Cukltural Arts, 3:00 pm, 110 West Finney Avenue, Suffolk. Adults $25 / Youth $12.50. The evil enchantress Lady Za Za has banished Princess Rapunzel to the deep, dark, dank, dismal and dreary forest in an effort to rule the kingdom herself. It is up to handsome Sir Roderick and his hairdressing side-kick Edgar to restore the kingdom as they also search for true love and a perfect head of hair. Will they find everything they are looking for in Princess Rapunzel? With a dragon who’s lost his poof, a neurotic gypsy woman and a magical cast of characters, this hilarious twist on the classic fairy tale will delight princes and princesses of all ages. Let your hair down in this charming new musical by Janet Yates Vogt and Mark Friedman. 757.923.0003 | www.SuffolkCenter.org

Sat, Apr 25 - REEL Paddling Film Festival, Hyatt Place Chesapeake/Greenbrier, Doors open at 6:30 pm; 7 - 9:00 pm, 709 Eden Way North, Chesapeake. The REEL Paddling Film Festival showcases the world's best paddling films to audiences in the United States and around the world. The festival inspires more people to explore rivers, lakes and oceans, push physical and emotional extremes, embrace the lifestyle and appreciate the heritage of the wild places we paddle. The film festival is returning to Chesapeake for its second year. $5 per person. Contact: Shawn Callahan mailto:scallahan@cityofchesapeake.net | http://www.reelpaddlingfilmfestival.com/tour-schedule/2015-world-tour-schedule/details/369-wild-river-outfitters.html

Sat, Apr 25 - Tidewater Bluegrass Music Assoc. Monthly Bluegrass Concert, Hickory Ruritan Club, 7:00 pm, 2752 South Battlefield Boulevard, Chesapeake. The TBMA monthly concert held at the Hickory Ruritan Club features some of the best in local and regional bluegrass talent. April's concert features music by Three Rivers. Donations are accepted at the door to cover the cost of the bands and rental. http://www.tidewaterbluegrass.org/

Sat, Apr 25 - Nephew Tommy: "I Got People Inside My Head" Comedy Tour, Chrysler Hall, 7:30 pm, 215 Saint Pauls Blvd., Norfolk. Nephew Tommy, Co-host of The Steve Harvey Morning show is coming to town. It’s the 2015 Thomas “Nephew Tommy” Miles “I Got People Inside my Head” Comedy Tour.  It’s his first national comedy tour and all tickets are just $50.00 plus fees. Joining him on stage: Kier “Junior” Spates also from the Steve Harvey Morning Show, national funnyman Prescott Gilliam straight out of Memphis and The Flat out Fool, the comedians comic Tony Roberts out of Detroit!

Sat, Apr 25 - The Ahn Trio, The American Theater, 8:00 pm, 125 E Mellen St., Hampton. The three sisters of the Ahn Trio have earned a distinguished reputation for embracing 21st century classical music with their unique style and innovative collaborations. The Ahn sisters were born in Seoul, Korea, and educated at the Juilliard School in New York City. Reflecting the two cultures they grew up in, the Trio brings a new energy and excitement to the chamber music world.

Sun, Apr 26 - Symphonicity: Mid Century Magic, Sandler Center for the Performing Arts, 3:00 pm, 201 Market Street, Virginia Beach. Collaboration of the Original Rhondels with the Symphonicity Pops in a program of music from the 50s and 60s. For more information visit www.symphonicity.org.

Sun, Apr 26 - Republic of Korea Traditional Army Band and Dancers, VA Arts Fest, Chrysler Hall, 7:30 pm, 215 Saint Pauls Blvd., Norfolk. In addition to being a favorite in the Virginia International Tattoo, this group will excite patrons in a special show of their own! Performing on brilliantly colored drums of all sizes as well as traditional horns, pipes, and stringed instruments in a parade of skillfully executed choreography and song with the power of martial arts and a spectacular group of dancers, this group is sure to thrill audiences of all ages.

Thu, Apr 30 - "The Rime ", Performed by Gabriel Portuondo, VA Arts Fest, Robin Hixon Theater, 7:30 pm, 440 Bank Street, Norfolk. Gabriel Portuondo is a man inspired by Shakespeare, the ocean and the classics — in music and the written word. In his remarkable theatricalization of "The Rime of the Ancient Mariner" he creates an extraordinary tapestry of spellbinding and supernatural characters in this epic tale of redemption and enlightenment written by Samuel Taylor Coleridge and published in 1798.

Thu, Apr 30 - Distinguished Speaker Series - Brad Meltzer "What's Your Legacy?", Ferguson Center for the Arts, 7:30 pm, 1 Avenue of the Arts, Newport News. Being a writer isn’t easy — #1 New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer had his first novel rejected 24 times. Not to be deterred, he penned a second, “The Tenth Justice,” which became an instant New York Times bestseller. “Dead Even” followed a year later and also hit the bestseller list, as have all eight of his novels. In addition to his fiction, he’s written three non-fiction books, comics and TV scripts. Meltzer also hosts “Brad Meltzer’s Decoded” on the History Channel. Raised in Brooklyn and Miami, Brad is a graduate of the University of Michigan and Columbia Law School.

Thu, Apr 30 thru May 17 - "The Producers", Smithfield Little Theater, Thu-Sat 8:00 pm, Sat 2:00 pm, Sun 2:30 pm, . By Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, Music and lyrics by Mel Brooks. Presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International. The plot is simple: a down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history thereby bilking their backers (all "little old ladies") out of millions of dollars. Only one thing goes awry: the show is a smash hit! The antics of Max Bialystock and Leo Bloom as they maneuver their way fecklessly through finding a show (the gloriously offensive "Springtime For Hitler"), hiring a director, raising the money and finally going to prison for their misdeeds is a lesson in broad comic construction.

FARMERS’ MARKETS

Thu, Apr 16 - Spring Farmers' Market at CNU. Spring 2015 market dates: Thursdays April, Hours 3-6 pm, On York River Hall Road, in front of the David Student Union, CNU, Newport News. Parking is available in the lot behind the chapel. Come on out everyone. We will have a new produce vendor, Mattawoman Creek Farms, from the eastern shore, that will be bringing organic spring vegetables. Plus phenomenal local businesses selling a wide array of items, from tacos and artisan breads to orchids and beard shampoo! In addition, there will be some live music peppered throughout.

Sat, Apr 18 - Smithfield Farmers Market, Every Sat 9:00 am until 12:00 noon, 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 and the "Best Farmers Market" by Coastal Virginia Magazine in 2014. Now in its 14th 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.

Sat, Apr 18 - 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, Apr 25 - Smithfield Farmers Market, Every Sat 9:00 am until 12:00 noon, 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 and the "Best Farmers Market" by Coastal Virginia Magazine in 2014. Now in its 14th 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.

Sat, Apr 25 - 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/