It’s the sweetest time of year, and we’re here to make sure you know the ins and outs of celebrating Valentine’s Day in Norfolk! From bird watching and a trip to the zoo to dinner and cruises, there are plenty of events to celebrate the day of hearts with your Valentine or Galentine group!
Main image: @brennakathcollins, Instagram
Kiss & Tail
Feb. 8, 2026
Virginia zoo
Tired of the same old up-scale dinner to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Swing by the Virginia Zoo on Sunday, Feb.y 8 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for a more casual brunch time celebration with your fellow lovebirds or mates. Sneak in some hugs and hisses while learning fun facts about dating and mating in the animal kingdom, nibble on tasty treats, name a cockroach after your ex, watch Carson the Superb owl choose a Super Bowl winner and more. 21+!
Valentine’s Signature Dinner Cruise
Feb. 13-14, 2026
Spirit of Norfolk
Set sail with your special someone on an unforgettable experience with Norfolk’s Signature Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise. Celebrate with your Valentine or Galentines, dining and dancing on the Elizabeth River with magnificent views of the city skyline as the backdrop. Enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet and gorgeous views of Norfolk’s spectacular architecture. You’ll marvel at famed city landmarks, such as the Navy’s Atlantic Fleet from our climate-controlled interior and open air-roof decks. This memorable evening is topped off with a fully stocked bar and a live DJ creating a most festive atmosphere. Share treasured moments together with this one-of-a-kind Valentine’s Day dinner cruise celebration.
Backyard Bird Count At Wow Children’s Garden
Feb. 14, 2026
Norfolk Botanical Garden
Whether you are a seasoned bird lover or just getting started, this is a fun and educational event for the whole family. By participating, you and your family can help scientists better understand bird populations before their annual winter migration. Each participant will be provided a science kit and information on where to submit their data. Make sure to stop by the WOW Children’s Garden to complete other bird-themed activities, crafts, and tours! Recommended for children ages 3+ with significant chaperone assistance. Moderate walking required.
Check out a Winter Farmers’ Market
Feb. 14, 2026
Afterglow Brewing
Every second and fourth Saturday through March, Afterglow Brewing hosts a cozy community market featuring farm-fresh goods, baked treats, artisan products, and handmade finds. Event is noon to 3 p.m., rain or shine
Catch Some Action on the Ice
Feb. 13-14, 2026
Scope Arena
The Greensboro Gargoyles take on the Norfolk Admirals at the Scope Arena for a pair of weekend games over Valentine’s. First game is Saturday at 7:05 p.m. followed by a day game at 3:05 p.m. Sunday.
Church Street Jazz Series presents Andrea Lisa
February 14, 2026
Attucks Theatre
Drawing inspiration from her personal journey of resilience and growth, Andréa shares, “The album is a reflection of my experiences, a melodic diary of lessons learned and triumphs achieved.” Through nuanced storytelling and heartfelt lyricism, “Silver Lining” offers a profound narrative of hope, perseverance, and self-discovery. Her music has been widely recognized, with “Vortex” making its mark on Billboard radio, SiriusXM Watercolors, iHeart Radio, and gaining success on multiple charts. As a multifaceted talent, Andréa Lisa has collaborated with renowned artists like Jonathan Butler, Ralph Johnson (Earth Wind & Fire), and Kool & the Gang. Her guitar work on Kool & the Gang’s latest album further solidifies her status as an exceptional musician.
Wait Until Dark
Through Feb. 15
Wells Theatre
Virginia Stage Company presents Wait Until Dark By Frederick Knott Adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher. In a 1944 Greenwich Village apartment, a blind woman is threatened by criminals in search of a very “special” doll. As the climax builds, Susan discovers that her blindness just might be the key to her escape, IF she can manage to stall her tormentors until dark. This masterfully constructed thriller moves from one moment of suspense to another as it builds toward a heart-stopping finale. Catch two shows on Valentine’s Day – a matinee at 2 p.m. and an evening showing at 7:30 p.m.
Eternally Yours: A Dark Fantasy Ball
Feb. 14, 2026
Maker’s Craft Brewery
On Valentine’s evening, the Valentine’s Day Ball: Eternally Yours, is set to be an enchanting evening of dark fantasy and romance.
Your fate? Sinful concoctions, daring courtships, enchanted dances, heartening melodies, wistful glances, local merchants, blooming desire, general merriment, and much much more.
Whether you’re single or not, come partake in a night passion and reverie at Maker’s Craft Brewery.
Mardi Gras Live!
Feb, 14, 2026
Waterside District
Laissez les bon temps rouler! Let the good times roll! Join us for our annual Mardi Gras celebration at Waterside District. Enjoy street performers, a King Cake-eating contest, shopping cart parade, specialty food menu, Silent Disco, karaoke, live entertainment + DJ and emcee, other contests with prizes, hurricanes, and of course BEADS!
VIP Admission includes: Three drink tickets good for Miller/Coors drafts, Blue Moon drafts, call cocktails, glasses of house wine, house hurricane mix, or any non-alcoholic drinks, complimentary beads, VIP swag bag, access to drink specials all night, + VIP section with private bar.
General Admission includes: One drink ticket good for Miller/Coors draft, Blue Moon draft, call cocktail, glass of house wine, house hurricane mix or any non-alcoholic drink, and access to drink specials all night.
Must be 21 or over to redeem voucher towards alcohol. Age verification will be required for redemption. No refunds will be provided.
