15 January 2025

JetBlue Set to Offer Daily Service to ORF

(Jan. 15, 2025) – Norfolk International Airport will welcome service from JetBlue in spring 2025. New York’s Hometown Airline will become the ninth commercial carrier at ORF when it commences daily seasonal service to Boston Logan International Airport on April 30.

“I’m regularly asked when we’ll be adding JetBlue to Norfolk International Airport, which speaks volumes about the airline’s strong reputation and customer loyalty,” said Mark Perryman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Norfolk Airport Authority. “I’m excited to soon become a ‘Blue City’ and am confident this long-awaited partnership will be well-received by travelers here, as well as among New Englanders seeking to spend time in Coastal Virginia and the Outer Banks beginning later this year.”

“We’re excited to bring JetBlue’s award-winning service to Norfolk this summer, providing convenient access to Boston, one of our key focus cities,” said David Jehn, vice president of network planning and airline partnerships at JetBlue. “From Boston, travelers can connect to JetBlue’s extensive network, offering a variety of destinations and our signature combination of low fares and great service. We’re equally excited to welcome travelers to Norfolk, giving them the opportunity to explore all that this vibrant region has to offer.”

Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Alexander likewise celebrates the new service, stating, “I am thrilled to welcome JetBlue to Norfolk International Airport, a vital gateway to our city and region. This new partnership strengthens Norfolk’s position as a hub for connectivity, economic growth, and opportunity. JetBlue’s commitment to providing exceptional service aligns with our vision for a vibrant, thriving community that attracts businesses, visitors, and residents alike. Together, we are soaring to new heights.”

JetBlue will run one daily nonstop roundtrip between ORF and BOS from April 30 through Oct. 25. Flights will leave Boston at 3:30 p.m. to arrive in Norfolk at 5:05 p.m. Return flights will depart Norfolk at 6:00 p.m. with a scheduled 7:29 p.m. arrival at BOS. The airline will utilize its 140-seat Airbus A220 aircraft on the route, offering JetBlue’s award-winning service featuring fast, free and unlimited broadband Wi-Fi; complimentary name-brand snacks and drinks; and seatback entertainment at every seat. JetBlue’s network includes service to nearly 30 U.S. states and Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its destinations outside the United Stats include markets in Canada, Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean, as well as the European cities of Amsterdam, Netherlands; Dublin, Ireland; Edinburgh, Scotland; plus Paris, London and starting later this year, Madrid.

ORF serves as the primary commercial airport for the nearly 2 million residents of Hampton Roads, Virginia’s Eastern Shore and northeast North Carolina. It recently concluded its third consecutive year of record annual traffic with nearly 4.9 million passengers in 2024 and is now building additional gates and an international arrivals facility to service its future aviation needs.

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17 December 2024

Here Comes ‘25: Ring in the New Year in Norfolk

As the sun sets on 2024, we’re looking ahead to all the great things 2025 will bring to Mermaid City, from a reimagined Nauticus to an expanded Norfolk Botanical Garden to Carnival cruises kicking off in February (read much more in our 2025 preview).

In the meantime, there’s still some partying to be done. With that, here’s a look at the top New Year’s Eve 2024/25 events for Norfolk, Virginia.

New Year’s Eve Live! At Waterside District

Dec. 31, 2024
Waterside District

Norfolk’s BEST New Year’s Eve celebration is at Waterside District! Tuesday, Dec. 31, Waterside will host an electrifying extravaganza featuring multiple DJs, mesmerizing live performers, champagne toast + two balloon drops filled with cash and prizes at midnight! Upgrade to VIP for additional drink tickets, food, and entertainment. Bring in 2025 with the BIGGEST party by the water in Downtown Norfolk! Exclusive PBR VIP Bottle Service Tables available, please email info@watersidedistrict.com to book. Must be 21 or over for service of alcohol. Age verification will be required at the venue. No refund will be provided.

Book here and save $10 on admission with access code: VISITNFK

Signature Brunch and Dinner Cruises on Spirit of Norfolk

Dec. 31, 2024
Otter Berth, Waterside

Ring in 2025 on the water with an unforgettable New Year’s Eve Signature Brunch Cruise in Norfolk. Whether for a romantic date or a special celebration with friends and family, celebrate the new year in style on the Elizabeth River with a lunch or dinner buffet freshly prepared by the chef, City Cruises’ distinctive hospitality, and full bar service. While onboard, guests will enjoy exceptional views of the Navy’s Atlantic fleet, dining and dancing, a sparkling wine toast, DJ entertainment, and festive décor. Toast the new year with this most memorable brunch cruise experience. Happy New Year!

Hello 2025: The Main

Dec. 31, 2024
Norfolk Hilton the Main

Billes as a celebration of “delicious food, great parties and a soft pillow to start off 2025,” the celebrations at Norfolk Hilton the Main include a DJ at Grain, live performance from Clara Zimm in Varia, DJs in the Ballroom and a grand dessert buffet on the fourth floor. Dinner and party packages start at $100 per person and the hotel is also offering overnight packages for those who want to keep the party going all night long.

NYE Extravaganza at The Ghent Self-Pour Gastropub

Dec. 31, 2024
The Ghent, 319 W. 21st St.

Enjoy hors d’oeuvres from 8-10 p.m. along with a $20 pour card to enjoy The Ghent’s extensive draft wall. Live music and a midnight toast will help ring in 2025 in this unique rooftop location in Norfolk’s Ghent neighborhood. Tickets cost $65 and include food and drinks.

NYE Party at the High Cup

Dec. 31, 2024
117 E. Princess Anne Rd.

DJ Prince will spin all night from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. at the High Cup on Princess Anne Rd. There will be a free champagne toast at midnight and a fun photo booth for capturing the last vibes of 2024. A $25 ticket includes entry, champagne toast and all festivities. VIP tables also available.

Norfolk New Year’s Eve Bar Crawl

Dec. 31, 2024
Hell’s Kitchen, 124 Granby St.

Gather your crew for an unforgettable night of excitement, laughter and toasts as you journey through Norfolk’s hottest bars and venues. With waived cover fees, exclusive drink specials and a digital map to guide you, each stop delivers unique vibes, creative cocktails and live DJs to keep the energy high. Perks include a champagne toast, social media features, event photographers and friendly on-site staff to enhance your experience. Don’t miss the chance to ring in the New Year with hundreds of fellow revelers and an exclusive after-party to keep the celebration alive. Tickets start at $19.99.

Granby Theater Annual New Year’s Party

Dec. 31, 2024
Granby Theater

Hit up The Granby Theater on Dec. 31 for the 18th annual New Year’s Eve party, featuring Chris Keys and DeeJay SDot. Known as the top nightlife venue in Hampton Roads, The Granby Theater offers an unforgettable experience with state-of-the-art sound, surreal stage design, CO2 blasters, VIP balcony sections, and more. Tickets start at $40 and will increase, so purchase early through Eventbrite; VIP sections are also available for booking. A buffet will be available for purchase per plate. All ticket sales are final, with no refunds.

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16 December 2024

What’s New to Norfolk in 2025

2025 is set to be a transformational year in the history of Norfolk, with a variety of projects set to be unveiled over its course. From nature preserves to sustainable initiatives, expanded cycling options and a deeper dive on the area’s maritime history, this year promises a lot for visitors to explore.

At Norfolk Botanical Garden, grand ambition meets a beautiful, immersive experience in the Garden of Tomorrow, coming in fall. The highlight will be the stunning Perry Conservatory, a two-story 26,000-square-foot structure that will house threatened plants from around the world and become a centerpiece of the garden’s conservation efforts.

Art and culture lovers will find much to love at the Chrysler Museum’s newly-expanded Perry Glass Studio. Tripling in size and offering more educational programs, the museum will further cement the studio’s reputation as a world class glass institution.

Just down the road, Nauticus has undergone a major renovation. The $21.5 million Reimagine Nauticus project features new interactive exhibits, a planetarium, a maritime simulator, and a public plaza with stunning views of the Elizabeth River.

Norfolk is also committed to sustainability and resilience, as evidenced by the recently-opened Ryan Resilience Lab. Part of the Elizabeth River Project, this “living lab for a warming world” showcases innovative building practices and offers educational programs on climate change and environmental protection. The lab is located on a site that is projected to be overtaken by sea level rise, serving as a powerful reminder of the urgent need for climate action.

Cyclists, runners and those looking for a lovely stroll will be glad to hear the Elizabeth River Trail is expanding in 2025. The ERT’s new trailhead at the Larchmont Library will feature a kiosk, kayak launch, improved signage, and outdoor recreational spaces. This expansion will make the trail even more accessible and enjoyable for visitors.

Norfolk is also excited to become a popular cruise destination. Starting in February, Carnival Cruise Line will offer year-round cruises to ports in the Eastern Caribbean and the Bahamas on the Carnival Sunshine, bringing a renewed sense of excitement for travelers to and from Mermaid City.

Norfolk’s ever-popular Naval Station Bus Tours have returned, offering a true behind-the-scenes glimpse into life on Naval Station Norfolk, the world’s largest naval installation. The 60-minute tour includes the homes of the 1907 Jamestown Exposition, Chambers Field Air Station and the fleet’s ships.

Finally, the ever-popular Selden Market on Main St. gets a refreshed look in 2025, with a new color palette, upgraded furniture, remodeled bathrooms, and a new kitchen space. These improvements will make the business incubator a more inviting and enjoyable place to visit local vendors.

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11 December 2024

January 2025 Norfolk Events Guide

Hard to believe we’ve arrived in 2025, but here we are! So, as this momentous year kicks off, here is a look at the best things to see, eat and do around Norfolk, Virginia this month.

Norfolk Admirals Hockey

Various Dates in January

Scope Arena

The Norfolk Admirals ECHL hockey team plays a total of a dozen games in January 2025, with six of them at home. Check out the complete 2024-25 schedule here.

Garden of Lights at Norfolk Botanical Garden

Virginia Tourism Corporation, www.Virginia.org

Through January 5, 2025

Norfolk Botanical Garden

If you missed out on this spectacular show featuring 1.5 million twinkling lights during the holidays, fret not. The Norfolk Botanical Garden is keeping the lights on until Jan. 5 this year!

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical

Jan. 7-12

Chrysler Hall

An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters.

Choir Boy

Jan. 10-26

Little Theatre of Norfolk

For fifty years, Charles R. Drew Prep School for
Boys has been a highly respected institution dedicated to helping its students grow into “strong, ethical black men.” But what happens when Pharus does not fit the mold of a typical “Drew man?” Pharus is different from his peers, and his effeminate nature constantly sets him apart. Though he may be the leader and most talented member of Drew’s renowned gospel choir, he struggles to gain their acceptance and respect. Choir Boy, written by the Academy Award-winning writer of Moonlight: Tarell Alvin McCraney, is a moving story of sexuality, race, hope, gospel music, and a young gay man finding his voice.

Maria Bamford

Jan. 10, 2025

Attucks Theatre

Maria Bamford is revered for her deeply personal and experimental comedy about mental illness. She starred in the surreal, semi-autobiographical Netflix comedy series Lady Dynamite, about a comedian who suffers a nervous breakdown, and is the star of three unconventional hour-long stand-up specials: Weakness is the Brand, Old Baby and Maria Bamford, the special, special, special! She also created and starred in the cult hit web series The Maria Bamford Show, in which she plays all the characters.