What: Mercato Di Grazia Where: 245 Granby St., Norfolk, VA Hours: Daily 10 a.m.-7 p.m. except Sunday More Information:https://mercatodigrazia.com/
When stepping through the doors of Mercato Di Grazia, you could be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported to a street corner deli in New York City or New Haven, Connecticut. That’s on purpose, says owner Tony Caruana.
“I always wanted to make a place where you get good sandwiches, good cold cuts, good Italian products and produce,” he says. “It’s where I grew up.”
Inside, shelves are lined with imported olive oils, pasta, sauces and Italian specialties. Behind the deli counter, paper-thin slices of mortadella and prosciutto are only carefully carved once you’ve ordered. The result of this thoughtful approach is a sandwich piled high with premium meats and cheeses sourced directly from Italy.
Part Deli, Part Market
Opened in November 2025, Mercato Di Grazia is a natural expansion for New Haven native Caruana, who also runs the kitchens at the highly acclaimed Luce (a Norfolk staple since 2013) and Luce Secondo in nearby Chesapeake. He’s also an Apple Top-100 podcaster who hosts Burnt Hands Perspective.
Busy? Yes, Caruana is busy, but that’s how he prefers it.
For Caruana, the market serves several purposes. Firstly, it fills the role of a premium storeroom housing elite ingredients to feed his restaurants, allowing him to bypass traditional middle-man markups. It’s also a gathering place for those who appreciate top-tier ingredients and the craftsmanship that goes into every sandwich, salad and pinsa (a flatbread similar to pizza). Every meat, cheese and pantry item has been carefully selected, with many products carrying regional protections and traditions dating back many generations in Italy.
Even first-time visitors don’t need to be experts in Italian cuisine to enjoy the experience.
“We give people samples. We let them taste things,” Caruana says. “We’ll explain where they’re from and what they are.”
Lines Out The Door
Mercato has quickly built a loyal following. On busy days, customers line up outside the door waiting for sandwiches stacked with imported meats, house-made specialties and freshly sliced deli favorites.
Caruana doesn’t play favorites with his sandwiches, but admits to being partial to anything with mortadella.
“When I was young, we ate that a lot,” he says. “Very thin, like paper. It melts in your mouth.”
In the market. customers can purchase meats and cheeses by the pound, pick up specialty ingredients for dinner at home or take home jars of Caruana’s own pasta sauces, made with all-natural ingredients and inspired by the same recipes served in his restaurants. Customers can choose from marinara, arrabbiata and puttanesca. Word is, a vodka sauce is coming soon, and when Tony Caruana tells us something is going to happen, it’s going to happen.
Most importantly, the market represents something he believes Norfolk and nearby cities need more of: independent businesses that create a sense of neighborhood and connection.
“Norfolk needs a lot more of this,” he says. “I think people are going to start coming back and trending toward supporting local.”
You might be stopping in for a sandwich or searching for the perfect olive oil or just looking for those Italian vibes. Either way, Mercato Di Grazia offers up a place where food, community and absolute respect for tradition live peacefully under one roof.
Tips for First-Timers
Hands down, the deli counter is the star of the show. Everything in Mercato Di Grazia is strictly curated, completely authentic and regionally recognized by law in Italy. From high-end Prosciutto di Parma to several distinct types of guanciale, everything is sliced exactly to your liking, whether that’s thick, thin, cubed or blocked.
And don’t stress if it’s your first time. Caruana’s staff is deeply educated on regional origins and always ready to hand over a sample so you can taste the difference between a Genoa salami and a traditional soppressata.
August in Norfolk is heating up, and we’ve got an incredible lineup to help you make the most of the rest of the season. Catch music legends Barry Manilow at Chartway Arena on August 8 and Josh Groban on August 16, then head to the waterfront for the 43rd Annual Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival on August 21–22. Celebrate 125 years of the Virginia Zoo on Aug. 29. From outdoor festivals to high-energy arena shows, dive into our guide below for the best ways to soak up the final weeks of summer in the 757.
In a matchup that typically only happens once a year, the Worcester Red Sox (affiliates of the Boston Red Sox) will come to Harbor Park for a satisfying six-game homestand against the Tides to close out July and open August.
The sun may be setting on summer, but the Zoo is squeezing in one last hurrah at its End of Summer Bash on Saturday, Aug. 1st from noon to 4 p.m. Free with general zoo admission; rain or shine.
Your chance to wine and unwind during an evening of live music, community connections, and art. Film Break Society offers curated screenings of classic restorations and under-the-radar contemporaries. This month: Wild Style (1983). Tickets available at the door. $5 for museum members, (with valid member ID card)$10 for non-members.
Tidewater Pipes & Drums’ Summer Recital will feature solo and band performances, as well as guest musicians Cameron MacDougall on bagpipes and Hannah Skinner on drums.
This edition of Sunsets on the River features performance by The Band Monarch, a ‘70s-inspired classic rock band. Food trucks include Deutscher Imbiss, Locots and Kona Ice (rain date: Aug. 13).
Take an exclusive, behind-the-scenes journey into hidden corners and untold stories of the museum. Led by expert docents, this immersive experience will take you beyond the gallery walls and into the heart of the Hermitage’s most intriguing spaces.
Rescheduled from March 2, 2026. Music icon Barry Manilow has announced six new arena shows in March 2026. The GRAMMY®, TONY®, and EMMY® Award winner is set to bring his high-energy, hit-packed concert to Chartway Arena in Norfolk, Va on Monday, March 2. This announcement kicks off what promises to be an exciting year ahead for Manilow, with new music on the horizon in 2026.
Monday Night RAW returns to Norfolk 8/10 for the first time in 3 years! Don’t miss CM Punk, Women’s World Champion Liv Morgan, The Usos, Intercontinental Champion Penta, Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, World Tag Team Champions The Vision, Women’s Intercontinental Champion Becky Lynch, Oba Femi, Jacob Fatu and Je’Von Evans.
Prepare for a show stopping performance as we pay tribute to the iconic, heartwarming and nostalgic songs from animations including; Frozen, Wicked, K-Pop Demon Hunters, Moana, The Wizard of Oz, Beauty & The Beast, Anastasia, Pocahontas, Aladdin, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory and more! As well as a few from our favourite popstars like Taylor Swift, Coldplay and Rachel Platte.
Get ready for the concert series of the Sumner featuring live performances from K Camp, Keri Hilson, and Jacquees, also featuring the hottest R&B hits spun by your favorite DJ’s, hosted exclusively at Waterside District!
For the ultimate Summer experience for the music lovers crowd, this is where you need to be!
Make the perfect miniature summer home for the fairies and gnomes in your garden! Each fairy garden includes an air plant! Recommended for ages 5+ with some chaperone assistance. Due to the use of small decorative items for the fairy gardens, it is recommended that no children under 5 years old participate. All attending adults and children are required to have a registered ticket.
“Stage, Screen & Symphony” is a spectacular concert experience that brings together the magic of Broadway, the power of film, and the grandeur of the orchestra. Featuring unforgettable music from beloved stage productions and iconic movie scores,” Stage, Screen & Symphony” celebrates the music that has defined some of the most memorable stories ever told. These shows will bring to life selections from Josh’s new album “Cinematic.”
The Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival is the area’s longest-running outdoor jazz festival and for the 43rd annual edition, the festival features a star-studded cast of some of the biggest names on the international smooth jazz scene. The two-day festival will be held Friday & Saturday, August 21 & 22, 2026 in a beautiful summertime setting at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. 2026 performers include Jonathan Butler, Kim Scott, Gerald Albright, Spyro Gyra and more.
The Mountain Goats are bringing their signature blend of narrative-driven indie rock to The NorVa for a performance that promises both intimate storytelling and bold, orchestral ambition. Known for pushing creative boundaries, the band will draw from their latest, most conceptually elaborate work, Through This Fire Across From Peter Balkan—a project that functions as a full-scale musical centered on themes of survival and shipwrecked isolation. Fans can expect a mix of the band’s characteristic poignant lyricism and powerful, arrangement-heavy compositions, all set within the electric atmosphere of one of Norfolk’s premier live music venues.
Nitro Circus 2.0 is set to bring an adrenaline-fueled experience to Norfolk’s Harbor Park on August 25, 2026, starting at 7:00 p.m. This high-octane event showcases a world-class team of daredevils and elite athletes pushing the limits of action sports in disciplines including FMX, BMX, skate, and scooter. Founded by action sports icon Travis Pastrana, the touring phenomenon continues to build on its global reputation for electrifying live performances, offering fans an opportunity to witness cutting-edge stunts and gravity-defying tricks in a premier local setting.
The Virginia Zoo is celebrating its 125th anniversary on August 29, 2026, with a special event held from 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at its location on Granby Street in Norfolk. This milestone celebration is open to the public and included with general zoo admission or a valid zoo membership, offering a wonderful opportunity for visitors to commemorate more than a century of local conservation and wildlife education.
The city is competing against 15 Southern destinations for a chance to be featured on the cover of The Local Palate’s Best Culinary Towns of the South issue.
Norfolk, Va. (June 30, 2026) — Norfolk’s vibrant and diverse culinary scene is receiving national recognition as one of 15 destinations selected to compete for The Local Palate’s Best Culinary Town in the South. As one of only two Virginia destinations selected, Norfolk joins some of the South’s most celebrated culinary communities, highlighting the city’s growing reputation as a destination for exceptional food, drink and hospitality. Facing off against 15 other Southern destinations, Norfolk is inviting residents, visitors, food enthusiasts and community supporters to help showcase what makes the city a standout culinary destination by casting their vote.
Voting begins July 6 and runs through July 10. The top three towns from the first round will advance to a second round of voting taking place July 13–17. The winning destination will earn a coveted feature on the cover of The Best Culinary Towns of the South issue from The Local Palate.
Norfolk’s culinary story is one of creativity, culture and community. For a city of its size, Norfolk boasts an impressive concentration of independently owned restaurants, giving diners the opportunity to experience distinctive flavors, personal hospitality and locally inspired concepts throughout the city. From beloved neighborhood diners and family-owned restaurants to chef-driven concepts and elevated dining experiences, the city offers a remarkable range of flavors that reflect its rich history, diverse population and entrepreneurial spirit. Here, local seafood, global influences, innovative chefs, innovative chefs and passionate restaurateurs come together to create a food scene unlike any other in the South.
But Norfolk’s culinary success is about more than what’s on the menu. It’s built on a community that shows up for its local restaurants, supports small businesses and celebrates the people behind every dish. From chefs and restaurant owners to farmers, fishers, makers and loyal customers, Norfolk’s food scene thrives because of the connections between the people who create exceptional experiences and the community that embraces them.
“Being recognized by the Local Palate alongside some of the South’s most respected culinary destinations is an honor for Norfolk,” said Sarah Hughes, VisitNorfolk VP of Marketing and Communications. “This nomination celebrates the chefs, restaurant owners, hospitality professionals and entrepreneurs who have helped shape a dining scene that is authentic, diverse and uniquely Norfolk. Every vote helps shine a spotlight on the people and businesses that make our city a destination worth savoring.”
The competition offers more than bragging rights. National recognition can help attract new visitors, support local businesses and further establish Norfolk as a premier culinary destination in the South. Whether you’re grabbing breakfast at a longtime local favorite, enjoying international cuisine in one of Norfolk’s vibrant neighborhoods or celebrating a special occasion at one of the city’s acclaimed restaurants, every meal contributes to a culinary community that deserves to be recognized.
Residents and supporters are encouraged to vote, share the contest with friends and family, and follow VisitNorfolk and The Local Palate on social media for voting reminders, updates and opportunities to champion Norfolk throughout the competition.
Together, Norfolk can showcase the creativity, culture and culinary talent that have earned the city a place among the South’s best food destinations. Help put Norfolk on the map—and on the cover—as The Local Palate’s Best Culinary Town in the South.
Dining in Norfolk
We’re a city that’s rich in owner-operated restaurants, breweries, and food trucks whose owners have made Norfolk, VA their home — with a lot of heart and a side of grit.
Norfolk Botanical Garden (NBG) has been voted the # 1 Best Butterfly House in the United States through the USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for the second year in a row. Since debuting as a temporary exhibit in 2009, the Butterfly House has become a beloved permanent feature. Now a vibrant, flourishing habitat for native butterfly species, it welcomes over 45,000 guests each year—offering an immersive experience that both educates and delights visitors of all ages.
Help us celebrate, Adopt a Butterfly this summer to help us expand our conservation and education efforts, inspiring more people every year to care for pollinators.
Surrounding the house is the 2.5-acre Bristow Butterfly Garden, offering an immersive experience for visitors, with a thriving habitat that attracts and supports native butterflies and moths through every stage of their life cycle.
Guests can explore dedicated spaces including the swallowtail and monarch nursery, nectar garden, moonlight garden and the popular Butterfly House.
If You Go What: Live Nautical Knot Demonstration by Artisan John Trevvett When: Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Where: Mermaid Market at the VisitNorfolk Visitor Center, 232 E. Main St., Norfolk, VA Cost: Free and open to the public Exhibit Details: Trevvett’s handcrafted nautical knot art collection will remain on display at the Visitor Center throughout the month of June as part of Norfolk’s Sail250® Virginia celebrations.
For generations, sailors on square-rigged vessels spent their retirement translating their time on the water into art. Using traditional techniques like coachwhipping, plaits and Turk’s Heads, they fashioned complex decorative rope borders known as sennit frames. In 2026, this historic maritime craft is increasingly rare, with very little documentation existing from the 18th and 19th centuries. Only a handful of artisans worldwide still practice it.
“This was a dead art till the internet,” sennit artisan John Trevvett says, recounting how the craft was nearly lost to time. “There were people doing it, but they weren’t social media conscious.”
Based in Williamsburg, Trevvett is a Navy veteran whose history with ropework began practically, learning basic sailing knots to navigate the waters of the Chesapeake Bay. His focus shifted completely in 2020 during the pandemic shutdown. While watching the survival television show “Alone,” he noticed the contestants using paracord and decided to buy a few hanks (coils of rope) to try making simple military bracelets.
It didn’t take long for the YouTube algorithm to do its thing and he was soon going down a rabbit hole of traditional knot tyers. It was then that Trevvett experienced an unexpected breakthrough.
“What really blew my mind was, I understood it and I could do it immediately,” Trevvett says. “I could all of a sudden understand extremely complex knot tying.”
Trevvett quickly moved from simple bracelets to recreating historic sennit frames, an intensely demanding process that requires weaving a variety of traditional nautical knots (including star knots and intricate decorative weaves) into a single structure.
One collaborative frame co-created by Trevvett now hangs on full-time display in the Pentagon behind the desk of the Chief of Naval Operations. It required more than 5,000 feet of rope and weighs 82 pounds.
Trevvett’s work turns functional maritime utility into fine art, but he says it remains strictly a labor of love.
“It’s a passion. When I’m not playing golf or at church or with my grandkids, I’m tying knots.”
To help preserve the craft, Trevvett serves as an executive committee member for the United States for the International Guild of Knot Tyers and documents his methods on his YouTube channel, opening up once-guarded sailor secrets to a global audience.
For the month of June, a collection of Trevvett’s handcrafted nautical knot art is on display at the VisitNorfolk Visitor Center, serving as a featured exhibit during the city’s Sail250 celebrations. Trevvett will host a live nautical knot demonstration at the Visitor Center’s Mermaid Market on Saturday, June 20, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event is free and open to the public, offering a rare opportunity to watch a master artisan keep a centuries-old naval tradition alive.
Sail250® Virginia is a signature international maritime event celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Norfolk serves as a primary host city, welcoming a fleet of international tall ships, military vessels and sail training ships from more than 20 nations. The event features public ship tours, cultural exchanges and maritime demonstrations along the downtown waterfront.
When does the event take place?
The official maritime window and public viewing events kick off with the Parade of Sail on Friday, June 19, 2026. The visiting fleet remains docked for public tours and crew events throughout the weekend, with the full event running June 19-23. (See full schedule below).
When and where can I watch the Parade of Sail?
The Parade of Sail takes place on Friday, June 19, 2026. The fleet departs the Lynnhaven anchorage in Virginia Beach at 7 a.m., moves west through the Thimble Shoals Channel, and arrives at the Downtown Norfolk waterfront at approximately noon.
Key vantage points include:
Ocean View Beaches: The fleet passes here early in the rotation, at approximately 8:40 a.m.
Lambert’s Point City Park: Offers views of the larger vessels entering the river channel at approximately 11 a.m.
Town Point Park and the Waterside Promenade: The final arrival destination at noon.
Due to significant road closures, security checkpoints and high pedestrian density downtown, driving directly to the waterfront is not recommended. Hampton Roads Transit (HRT) serves as the primary public transportation network for the event. All modes of transport (ferry, light rail, bus) will be free on Friday, June 19 and the ferry and light rail will remain free to ride on Saturday and Sunday, June 20-21. Tickets for all forms of HRT transport can be purchased at the point of departure.
Visitors are strongly advised to utilize the Tide Light Rail, which connects suburban parking options directly to the downtown core.
Where should I park?
To minimize downtown congestion, visitors should utilize HRT Park-and-Ride lots located outside the immediate waterfront zone and transition to transit:
Newton Road Station Park-and-Ride: Ideal for visitors arriving via I-264 East. Park for free and take The Tide directly downtown.
Military Highway Station Park-and-Ride: Offers ample parking with direct access to light rail platforms.
Downtown Garages: City-operated garages (such as Main Street, Plume Street, and Fountain Park) will operate under event rates ($10). Space is limited, and structural closures may affect entry and exit times during the Parade of Sail.
Which transit stops serve the event venues?
For events centered at Town Point Park, the USS Wisconsin, and the downtown piers, passengers using The Tide should exit at either the MacArthur Square Station or the Civic Plaza Station. Both platforms place passengers within a short walking distance of the primary ship berths.
Are there shuttles running during the festival?
Yes. A free festival shuttle will run continuously to Downtown festival sites, with service beginning at noon each day and ending at midnight (Fri. and Sat.) and 9 p.m. (Sun.) Shuttle stops include Front Street (Colley Ave. and Front St.), Pagoda (Tazewell and Harbor Streets) and Nauticus (Boush and Main Street).
Which Parking Garages Are Open During the Festival?
City of Norfolk Parking Garages and Lots Available for Festival Weekend
Friday, June 19 – Sunday, June 21 All parking is $10 – Payment upon entry. Cash, debit/credit cards and digital payments accepted. Please leave valuables at home and be sure to lock your vehicle.
Public boardwalk viewing and standard public vessel tours are free of charge. Select premium events, evening receptions or specific excursions aboard participating vessels require ticket purchases through official event channels.
Courtesy: Festevents on Instagram
Are the ships only docked at Waterside?
No. While the Waterside Marina and the adjacent Town Point Park serve as central focal points for the festival, the international fleet is distributed across 10 distinct docking locations spanning five miles of continuous waterfront access in Norfolk.
The primary berthing sites for public viewing and tours include:
Waterside Marina & Otter Berth
Town Point Park
Nauticus & The USS Wisconsin Basin
Freemason Harbor
NOAA Piers
Front Street
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Piers
Additionally, participating international military vessels participating in FLEETEX 250 are berthed at Naval Station Norfolk, with dedicated public shuttle service running from downtown to the base for scheduled weekend tours. Neighboring regional affiliate harbors, including Portsmouth’s waterfront directly across the river, are also hosting select vessels from the international fleet.
How do I access different docking locations?
The visiting fleet is distributed across several key maritime facilities along the Elizabeth River waterfront. The main berthing areas include Town Point Park, the waterside promenade, and adjacent naval and commercial piers.
Can I tour military ships as well as tall ships?
Yes. Beyond the tall ships docked downtown, public military ship visitations are scheduled. On Saturday, June 20, and Sunday, June 21, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Naval Station Norfolk will open specific zones to the public, allowing visitors to step aboard participating U.S. Navy and international military vessels.
Are there educational activities for families?
The official family and educational hub is the Discovery Deck, located at the outdoor pavilion behind Nauticus. Open June 19–21 from noon to 7 p.m. daily, it features hands-on maritime heritage exhibits, live demonstrations and career exploration activities.
What happens if it rains?
The ships will arrive and remain docked as scheduled under normal summer weather conditions. Public ship tours and outdoor programming are subject to temporary suspension only in the event of severe weather, high winds, or lightning. Real-time scheduling adjustments will be posted directly to the official Sail250® Virginia digital portal at sail250virginia.com. To get official text message updates for Sail250® Virginia (running June 19–23, 2026) and the 50th Annual Norfolk Harborfest, text NFKCELEBRATE to 888-777.
What is the timeline for the event?
Events are subject to change. Below is a very general list of events related to Sail250® Virginia. For specific, hour-by-hour breakdowns, visit Sail250Virginia.com’s schedule page. For entertainment lineups at the adjacent festivals, visit the Festevents Harborfest/Juneteenth page.
Date
Time
Event / Programming Block
Location
Tuesday, June 16 – Thursday, June 18
Complete by 2:00 PM Thursday
Gathering of the World Fleet (Pre-Parade Assembly)
Lynnhaven Anchorage (Off Shore Drive, Virginia Beach)
Friday, June 19
7:30 AM – 12:00 PM
The 26-Nautical-Mile Parade of Sail
Commences at Lynnhaven, arriving downtown at noon
Friday, June 19
12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Juneteenth National Holiday Celebrations & Harborfest Activities
Town Point Park
Friday, June 19
3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Initial Free Public Deck Tours (Vessel Prep Contingent)
Main Downtown Waterfront Berths
Friday, June 19 & Saturday, June 20
9:30 PM
Juneteenth Fireworks Extravaganza over the Elizabeth River
Downtown Waterfront
Saturday, June 20
12:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Harborfest Programming & General Festival
Town Point Park
Saturday, June 20 – Sunday, June 21
11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
FLEETEX 250 Military Vessel Public Visitations
Naval Station Norfolk (Shuttles depart Downtown)
Saturday, June 20 – Sunday, June 21
Match Tournament Bracket
International Crew Soccer Tournament
Cutter Field (NSA Hampton Roads)
Sunday, June 21
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
International Parade of Cadets
Downtown Norfolk Corridor
Sunday, June 21
12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Public Deck Tours & “Discovery Deck” Interactive Hub
Main Waterfront / Nauticus Pavilion
Monday, June 22
12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Final Day of Free Public Ship Tours
Main Downtown Waterfront Berths
Tuesday, June 23
Morning Departures
Fleet Departure toward Baltimore Harbor
Elizabeth River Channel
What are the options for dining during the event?
Dining options during Sail250® Virginia, Juneteenth and the 50th Annual Norfolk Harborfest are split between on-site festival grounds and the city’s established downtown culinary corridor.
On-Premise Festival Food Vendors
Town Point Park and the immediate waterfront festival host more than 50 centralized food and beverage concessions managed by Norfolk Festevents. The vendor layout includes dedicated regional maritime staples alongside traditional festival menus including fresh crab cakes, hand breaded shrimp, fried oysters, scallops, shrimp fried rice, mouth-watering open pit beef barbeque, North Carolina barbeque, Italian sausage, Polish sausage, Philly style cheese steaks, burgers and dogs, souvlaki, pitas, gyros, chicken on a stick, chicken tenders, Grecian chicken, chicken lo mein, Greek salad, buttery roasted corn, fresh cut French fries, onion rings, fresh wraps, corn dogs, blooming onions and smoked savory turkey legs. Top off your lunch or dinner with ice cold lemonade and sweet desserts like hand dipped ice cream, fresh and hot funnel cakes, cool Italian ices, melt-in-your-mouth Kettle Korn, fresh fruit smoothies and soft serve ice cream with all the toppings. Lounge with family and friends at one of our shaded seating areas and relax while enjoying your favorite festival fare. In addition to traditional beverage selections like smoothies and lemonade, adult beverages may be found throughout the festival grounds in various locations.
The TowneBank Fountain Park area features the Virginia Wine, Spirits, and Craft Beer Garden, serving curated selections from state wineries, distilleries and breweries.
Shaded communal seating dining zones are located systematically throughout the park grounds adjacent to the primary vendor lanes.
Downtown Norfolk
For a sit-down meal away from the festival crowds, the downtown corridor offers immediate pedestrian access to local brick-and-mortar restaurants.
Waterside District: Directly adjacent to the Town Point Park festival gates, this venue provides indoor and outdoor waterfront dining options, including the Blue Moon TapHouse, PDS Street Tacos and more.
Granby Street Corridor: Located within a three-to-five-block walk from the berths, Granby Street serves as Norfolk’s urban dining center, featuring upscale bistros, local burger joints and authentic international dining options.
To browse specific menus, map out walking distances, or locate outdoor patio space away from the main waterfront, reference the completeVisitNorfolk Downtown Dining Guide.
Are there any resources for foreign-language speakers?
Yes! VisitNorfolk has compiled three guides to the most iconic attractions in Norfolk below.
July is special because it marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, leading to America’s eventual freedom from England several years later. But it’s also special because VisitNorfolk has a brand new events calendar, which now highlights the city’s marquee events, featured happenings and all the great everyday events that make this city so much fun. Check it out here. And then enjoy this list of our favorite July events — and yes, that includes plenty of fireworks!
Summer brings the return of the popular Friday after-work Ocean View event series. The Friday Night Themed Parties and Family Fun Nights are a great way to start the weekend with Live Music, children’s activities, food, beverages and more! Events begins Friday, July 3, 2026, with the Shore Thing Concert and Independence Day Celebration and runs select evenings through September 5.
The 43rd Annual Fourth of July Great American Picnic & Fireworks on Saturday, July 4, at Town Point Park begins at 5 pm with live patriotic music, food, and family-friendly activities, followed by one of Hampton Roads’ most spectacular fireworks displays at 9:30 pm high above the Elizabeth River. A wide variety of All-American fare, including hot dogs, hamburgers, barbecue, seafood, cotton candy, and more.
The RnB Block Party returns to Scope Arena, featuring headlining DJ, Power 99 FM’s DJ Diamond Kuts, the official DJ for the Philadelphia Eagles. Plus, sets by iPower92 Richmond’s Lonnie B; celebrity tour DJ, DJ AONE; Trey Songz’s DJ, DJ AWALL; RnB Block Party’s resident DJ, Izzy The DJ; and Hampton Roads DJ’s, DJ Sonic, Mike Benny, Nazzerati, and SUGARBEARZ.
Relax into the new week on select Sunday nights, 6pm-8pm with live music and sunsets on the Chesapeake Bay with the Big Bands on the Bay Concert Series at Ocean View Beach Park. Enjoy an evening full of dancing and music to round out exciting summer weekends. Remember to bring your blankets/chairs for these family friendly concerts!
Summer brings the return of the popular Friday after-work Ocean View event series. The Friday Night Themed Parties and Family Fun & Movie Nights are a great way to start the weekend with Live Music, children’s activities, food, beverages and more! Events begin Friday, July 3, 2026, with the Shore Thing Concert and Independence Day Celebration and run select evenings through September 5.
ERT + Norfolk Kayak Rentals are excited to offer a FREE kayak experience on the Elizabeth River. Join us for a 90-minute group paddle, launching from the Plum Point Park kayak launch. Previous kayak experience is REQUIRED. Arrive: 8:30-8:45 AM; Launch: 9 AM; Return: 10:30 AM; Distance: 3-5 miles.
For the first time, Jazz at The Wells moves from the Tazewell Lounge to the Wells Theatre main stage for a full-scale Big Band concert featuring the Tidewater Winds Jazz Big Band. This 25-member ensemble brings the golden age of swing to life with bold brass, tight rhythms, and timeless favorites from the Great American Songbook. Under the direction of Maestro John Brewington, the Big Band delivers music made famous by legends like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Judy Garland, Tony Bennett, and Nat King Cole, along with Broadway hits, film music, and fresh arrangements that keep the sound vibrant and alive.
At the event, you’ll find over 28 of Virginia’s best restaurants, food trucks & carts serving up an amazing variety of mouth-watering tacos & related food items for $4 each! Get ready for an action-packed weekend filled with a large variety of tacos, margaritas, games, and taco-themed fun all while being entertained by live bands, authentic Mariachi music & entertainment, awesome activities, and more.
Join the party in the Jean Outland Chrysler Reading Room for the next installment of Book & Look as organizers explore the exhibition Constellations: Contemporary Jewelry at the Dallas Museum of Art alongside a book discussion of The Devil Wears Prada: A Novel by Lauren Weisberger. Light refreshments served beforehand in the Reading Room. Free; registration not required.
The FIXX has been heralded as one of the most innovative bands to come out of the “MTV” era. For four decades, the style and substance of the band has always created a special connection with its audience. The FIXX’s themes are often complex, introspective and thought-provoking, but not without widespread mass appeal. The band has garnered three #1 hits, five more in the Top 5 and a dozen which reached the Top 10. With millions of albums sold worldwide, songs such as “One Thing Leads To Another,” “Red Skies” and “Saved By Zero” remain everyday staples on the playlists of the Rock, AAA and Alternative radio stations that continue to break new acts inspired by the era that The FIXX helped to define. Remarkably, the original lineup remains intact.
Earl Sweatshirt is the virtuosic byproduct of Los Angeles’ fertile ground where hip hop sowed its seeds and historic cultural movements were born. The prodigiously-gifted writer, lyricist and producer grew from a zeitgeist of which contemporary collectives in hip hop today are predicated.
Hot glass and live music come together for memorable evenings during Glass After Dark. Each month, watch the Perry Glass Studio team take the molten material to exciting places and enjoy entertainment by local musicians.Doors open at 7 p.m. The event begins at 8 p.m. $10 for Museum members, $20 for non-members (prices $10 more at the door), Cash bar.
Summer brings the return of the popular Friday after-work Ocean View event series. The Friday Night Themed Parties and Family Fun & Movie Nights are a great way to start the weekend with Live Music, children’s activities, food, beverages and more! Events begin Friday, July 3, 2026, with the Shore Thing Concert and Independence Day Celebration and run select evenings through September 5.
Eat, drink, and salsa the night away at the Norfolk Latino Music & Food Festival on Saturday, July 18, 2026 from 2pm to 11pm at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront! Featuring explosive live music performances, an eclectic offering of Latin cuisine including tacos and empanadas, fun family-friendly activities, authentic dance lessons and performances, and much more, the festival celebrates Hampton Roads’ vibrant Latin community.
We’re turning downtown Norfolk into a mid-summer holiday wonderland filled with local artists, handmade gifts, festive fun, and more vendors than ever before. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind presents, treating yourself, or just looking for a fun family outing, this is your chance to shop small and skip the December stress. Expect more local vendors and handmade goods than ever before, new holiday storytime readings for children, kids activities and family-friendly fun throughout the day, guided tours of the historic Wells Theatre, concessions and more.
Enjoy the Downtown Norfolk waterfront with live music, a variety of food options and drink features all summer long. Interested in a reserved table? Contact info@watersidedistrict.com.
The ninth annual Virginia Symphony Orchestra Concert in the Park presented by The Perry Family Foundation and TowneBank is Sunday, July 19, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. (show starts at 8:30 p.m.) at Town Point Park along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront. Produced by Norfolk Festevents, admission to the concert is free and open to the public. The evening will include gourmet artisan foods and beverages for purchase. Town Point Park will open at 6 p.m. for pre-concert picnics.
Flock to the Zoo with your fellow early birds and catch exclusive access to the trails before we open to the general public. Gobble down some grab-and-go breakfast foods, migrate to your favorite animals’ habitat, and get a bird’s eye view of how morning meals are made on the wild side. Gates open at 8 a.m. and close at 9:30 a.m. The Zoo will open to the public at 10am.
Summer brings the return of the popular Friday after-work Ocean View event series. The Friday Night Themed Parties and Family Fun & Movie Nights are a great way to start the weekend with Live Music, children’s activities, food, beverages and more! Events begin Friday, July 3, 2026, with the Shore Thing Concert and Independence Day Celebration and run select evenings through September 5.23.
If summer is when Norfolk’s waterfront comes alive, then 2026 will be one of the liveliest years on record. As things turn decidedly warm, festival season kicks off with Fesevents’ annual Harborfest, America’s longest running, maritime festival in early June. Harborfest is a waterfront tradition featuring tall ships, live music and local vendors, but this year it will be supersized with the arrival of Sail250®, Harborfest’s 50th anniversary and the Juneteenth Norfolk festival all wrapped up in one celebratory weekend. And it’s capped by one of the top fireworks displays on the East Coast. The festivities will run from June 19-23, 2026, making for an extra long weekend of nautical fun.
Get into a little water action of your own by visiting area beaches, exploring waterways by kayak or taking a pleasure cruise on one of several touring boats in the harbor.
All summer, catch the Norfolk Tides at Harbor Park, where the Elizabeth River provides a backdrop for a classic game. Enjoy a night out downtown, catch the Hampton Roads Transit Tide Light Rail to the ballpark and stay for the post-game fireworks.
The rest of the summer is packed full of artistic displays in Norfolk. Sway to live music at the Ocean View Summer Concert Series, and don’t miss the Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival. Waterside District also features live music along the Elizabeth River. Other featured festivals include PrideFest, Latino Music Festival, CaribFest and a series of free outdoor concerts in the park presented by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra. A bikeride along the stunning Elizabeth River Trail is perfect for checking out any of the downtown Norfolk events.
Fourth of July weekend offers the Great American Picnic with fireworks over downtown, plus a dazzling beachside show at Ocean View. By day, Ocean View Beach is the perfect place to unwind in the sand or sample fresh seafood and local favorites at nearby restaurants and breweries. Ocean View is also home to a Friday Nights series that features movies and themed parties plus the Saturday night Big Bands on the Bay concert series.
For a more relaxed family friendly evening, enjoy Sunsets on the River at the Hermitage Museum and Gardens, where a stunning estate is featured as a backdrop to live music.
After a full day in the summer sun, you’ll be ready to cool off. In downtown Norfolk, TowneBank Fountain Park, right in Town Point Park, offers an interactive fountain with 28 water jets that can reach up to 12 feet high.
It isn’t summer without ice cream, and Norfolk holds a sweet spot in dessert history. In Ghent, Doumar’s Cones and Barbecue is the go-to for shakes, sundaes and classic cones. From the fun flavors at Lolly’s and Pagoda Ice Cream to the local favorites at Strawberry Fields and Inside Scoop, there is a cone for everyone.
June is the month of all months in Norfolk for 2026. It’s when dozens of ships sail from across the globe to descend on Town Point Park for the 50th annual Harborfest celebration. What’s more, it’s also America’s 250th birthday, so Harborfest will also share the stage with Sail250® Virginia and Juneteenth, promising one amazing weekend of maritime and cultural history on our shores. There’s also baseball, concerts and general early summer fun to be had, so check out Mermaid City this month.
Multi-platinum band Shinedown have cemented their status as one of the most vital and forward-thinking powerhouses in music, embodying the kind of creative dynamism that transcends boundaries with over 8.3 billion global streams, a record-breaking 24 #1 rock hits, 15 platinum and gold singles, platinum or gold certification for all of their albums, 10 million albums sold worldwide, and major media acclaim. They are known for their timely and honest messages behind their chart-topping songs that resonate with not only their global audience and the rock community, but our culture at large.
Weird Al brings his legendary full-production multimedia comedy rock show back to the concert stage with the BIGGER & WEIRDER 2026 Tour, playing his iconic hits as well as some never-performed-live-before fan favorites. Al’s long-time band is joined by four additional players to create a super-sized concert experience. Special guests include Puddles Pity Party.
In the ‘80s, Cowboy Junkies proved that there was an audience waiting for something beautiful and reflective—and that audience has followed this iconic roots band through four decades of moving, masterful music. In their “virtuosic blend of folk and rock textures, riveting sonic paradoxes, [lead singer Margo Timmins] offers ragged proclamations like a poet towering on the outskirts of a war-ravaged city.”
Today, breakout superstar Teddy Swims announces his Summer 2026 EAST COAST HEADLINE DATES, alongside a major run of festival appearances. The announcement follows a milestone year for Swims, who wrapped a sold-out global tour, earned his second career Grammy nomination, and made history with his Diamond-certified smash “Lose Control,” which set the record for the longest-charting hit on the Billboard Hot 100.
Join us at Waterside District and catch your front-row seat to fútbol history as the World Cup comes to America’s shores for the first time since 1994.
Celebrate Pride on the wild side at the Virginia Zoo’s age-inclusive Pride Night event! You won’t want to miss this chance to show your true colors with your friends, queens, and allies! Visit your favorite animals, meet fabulous Animal Ambassadors, shop our Pride-themed market, connect with incredible local organizations and resources, shake your tail feathers to DJ Airrick’s iconic tunes, and enjoy a rainbow of various activities throughout this all-ages event!
Step aboard the Battleship for a laid-back evening of live music with the Tiki Bar Band, featuring your favorite hits from Jimmy Buffett and more! Enjoy themed drinks, tasty bites, games and more all on the fantail!
Ryan Bingham is a Grammy and Academy Award-winning singer, songwriter and musician known for his cinematic storytelling and genre-spanning sound, blending folk, blues, country, rock, and mariachi. Since emerging with his acclaimed 2007 debut Mescalito, Bingham has built a reputation for deeply lived-in songs and commanding live performances.
Led by frontman Andrew Stockdale, Wolfmother has spent over two decades building a global fanbase, playing to crowds worldwide and delivering sets at festivals like Coachella, Isle of Wight, Lollapalooza, Splendour in the Grass, Pinkpop, Rock en Seine, and Fuji Rock. They’ve also shared stages with rock heavyweights including AC/DC, Guns N’ Roses, Foo Fighters, Soundgarden, and the Sex Pistols. Not to mention, they were also personally invited to perform at Led Zeppelin’s induction into the UK Music Hall of Fame.
Hot glass and live music come together for memorable evenings during Glass After Dark. Each month, watch the Perry Glass Studio team take the molten material to exciting places and enjoy entertainment by local musicians. Doors open at 7 p.m. The event begins at 8 p.m.
The summer concert series continues at the Hermitage, with Big Torrin and Fusion Groove delivering funk music along with food trucks from Flippin’ Hangry, Yolee’s G Dawgs and Joysicles.
Texas native Julia Cole is redefining today’s country music, having already racked up 700M+ streams and amassed over 2.7M social followers. As the middle sister of three, the rising powerhouse – known for her charismatic stage presence and perfectly witty lyrics, turns every performance into a shared experience.
Join us for Juneteenth Norfolk, a celebration of unity, freedom, and empowerment for all! This vibrant festival honors the achievements of African American communities with live performances from national and regional acts, a spectacular fireworks show, delicious food, and community events. Come together for a day of education, reflection, and celebration of culture and heritage. Performers include Patti LaBelle, Roberta Lea and Sister Sledge.
Town Point Park and Throughout Norfolk June 19-23, 2026
2026 marks the 250th anniversary of our nation’s birth in 1776 – The United States of America’s Semiquincentennial. International tall ships and military vessels will sail into the port of Virginia as part of Sail2025® America. More than 4,000 officers, cadets and crews of 55+ ships from 20 nations will engage in events along Virginia’s waterfront. The event will be held in the tradition of the past five iconic OpSail events in the Norfolk/Hampton Roads/Chesapeake Bay region since 1976, and the fleet will once again bring extraordinary experiences and opportunities to every corner of our communities.
Each June, the city of Norfolk hosts one of the East Coast’s favorite festivals, the annual Norfolk Harborfest. This event is the largest, longest-running, free maritime festival in the nation. This year’s Harborfest is happening adjacent to Norfolk’s Sail250® Virginia and Juneteenth celebrations in Town Point Park and across the city.
For three memorable days along the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront, Harborfest celebrates all of the elements that make Norfolk and Hampton Roads a historic maritime and naval community. On both land and sea, thrilling activities and live music take center stage at Harborfest, including the annual Parade of Sail featuring international tall ships, one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast, a mesmerizing drone show, interactive family games and activities, Navy exhibits and demonstrations, artisan foods and beverages, national and regional live entertainment and much more.
Looking for the perfect Dad date or outing this Father’s Day? We’ve rounded up the best things to do with Dad in Norfolk. Whether you celebrate Dad on Father’s Day or every day, create a lasting memory with him in Norfolk this year.
The MacArthur Memorial is proud to host ceremonies commemorating the start of the Korean War. One ceremony will be held at 10am and another at 2pm. These events are open to the public.
PrideFest is the centerpiece of Pride Weekend—bringing together community, music, art, and activism in a high-energy, family-friendly environment. Join us on Saturday June 27, 2026 for a full day of live performances, local vendors, the iconic Pride Boat Parade, and moments that uplift the LGBTQIA+ community and allies alike.
Join the Norfolk Master Gardeners every 4th Saturday, in the months of April to October, for the ERT Botanical Tour Series! Explore our community, get expert information on plants and plant care, and learn something new! These tours are FREE and open to everyone, no registration required. Each tour will have a different location, and different focus of local, botanical interpretation of Norfolk.
The Dude Perfect: Squad Games Tour is headed to 22 cities this summer. Bring YOUR squad and get ready to experience the Dudes like you’ve never seen them before. This brand new tour is filled with larger than life battles, unexpected twists and for the first time ever – the entire floor will be the battle zone with full 360° seating available! Get ready for a night of excitement, laughter, and competition. Pound it. Noggin.
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