Extended Weekend Getaways
City of Hampton commemorates 400 years since the first recorded Africans landed in English–speaking North America
Hampton, Virginia- From a first-class festival celebrating the demise of the brooding Blackbeard the Pirate and live music and libations at the Downtown Hampton Block Party series, there is something for the entire family this year in Hampton. In 2019, Hampton, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the World commemorate the first recorded arrival of Africans in English North America with a series of special events and activities. The landing took place at Point Comfort, the present-day site of Fort Monroe.
The year 2019 has significance for Virginia and our nation, but particular importance for Hampton, Virginia. This year we commemorate 400 years since the first recorded Africans landed in English–speaking North America. This pivotal moment in global history is a cornerstone of Hampton’s story because it was at Point Comfort, site of Fort Monroe in Hampton, that the first landing occurred.
This 400-year anniversary presents an opportunity for reflection and education. Through a diverse series of programs, events, and exhibits, visitors can gain insight into how from this turbulent beginning, the foundation of our nation was established.
“The historical significance of the ways Africans contributed to the development of Virginia and the rest of the nation should be recognized by all Americans,” said Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck.
The American Theatre, Phoebus’ thriving arts center, has announced an exciting 2019 calendar that includes such notable acts as Ladysmith Black Mambazo and The Havana Cuba All-Stars.
In May and June, Hampton plays host to several signature events, including the 20th annual Blackbeard Pirate Festival (Named Third Best Pirate Festival in North American by USA Today and featured on Travel Channel’s Expedition Unknown), and the 52nd annual Hampton Jazz Festival. During the 52nd anniversary of the Hampton Jazz Festival, the world-renowned Hampton Coliseum will come alive with the sounds of the nation’s top blues, soul, pop, and jazz performers.
Many exciting athletic competitions such as the 2019 World Class Gymnastics Invitational, Mid-Atlantic Power League Volleyball, , Sea to Stars Volleyball Classic, BWSL Basketball Exposure Showcase, 2019 Showstopper Dance Competition, Hoop Group Southern Jam Fest 2019, Life’s a Beach Triathlon, 2019 EVP Beach Volleyball World Championships, , will compliment favorites like the 39th annual Virginia Duals, Boo Williams Nike Invitational Tournaments, and Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon, 5K, and Kids Kilometer. The Hampton Cup Regatta, North America’s oldest continuously running power boat race, celebrates its 94th birthday this September!! In non-athletic news, events like the 30th Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival XXIX, Ninth annual Hampton Roads Tattoo Arts Festival, and 19th annualInternational Children’s Festival, return bigger and better than ever.
In November and December, try such festive options as the 21st annual Coliseum Central Holiday Parade, Phoebus Annual Illumination, 24th annual Holiday and Kwanzaa Marketplace, 31st annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade, Holiday Open House at the Hampton History Museum, Hampton Holly Days Parade, and Mistletoe Homes Tour Fort Monroe. Other notable 2019 happenings include the Virginia Hot Rod & Custom Car Show, World of Pets Expo, Crabtown Seafood Festival, Bodacious Bazaar in May and November, and NekoCon 21, among countless others.
May 2019
17-19 Hoop Group Southern Jamfest 2019
In what has been dubbed by some the “Battle of the Brands” tournament, the Southern Jam Fest brings together some of the best AAU programs in the country to see who is the best of the best. Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. www.hoopgroup.com
17-19 Virginia Gymnastics Xcel State Championship
The USA Gymnastics Xcel Program is a program offered as an alternative program for competitive gymnasts. All of the gymnasts participating in the Virginia Xcel State Championship have qualified through a series of local competitions. Gymnasts vary in age, from 5 years-old to 19 years-old. Hampton Roads Convention Center. www.vausag.com
31 Blackbeard Grand Pirate Bash
We encourage you to come in “period attire” for a Pirate Party featuring a bounty of food, adult beverages, live music and more. 8 p.m. – Midnight. 757/727-8314. www.hampton.gov/parks (700 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA 23669)
30 Hampton Carousel Birthday
It’s the Hampton Carousel’s Birthday! Come out and enjoy a ride on this historic carousel. Carousel Park. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (602 Settlers Landing Road, Downtown Hampton)
May 31 – June 2 Bodacious Bazaar & Wine Festival
Over 200 vendors, artists, crafters, several of Virginia’s finest wineries and beer garden under three impressive large tents. RV’s, Boats, Live Music, Great Food, all on the bay, there is something for everyone! Hampton Roads Convention Center. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday & Saturday; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday. $7 Adults; $4 Children; $10 two day tickets. Wine tasting additional $20. www.bodaciousbazaar.com/spring(1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
June 2019
1-2 20th annual Blackbeard Pirate Festival
Pillage and plunder your way through the coastal seaport city of Hampton when the annual Blackbeard Pirate Festival returns for another year of swashbuckling excitement! Celebrate Hampton’s rich maritime heritage by commemorating the demise of our most infamous visitor, Captain Edward Teach, aka Blackbeard the Pirate. Saturday night concludes with a dazzling fireworks display. Food and beverages available for purchase. Arts & craft vendors abound! Downtown Hampton. 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday; 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday. Free Admission. 757/727-0900. www.hampton.gov/parks (Downtown Hampton Waterfront, 23669)
1-2 Steampunk: Visions of Futures Past
Experience the fantastical craftsmanship, conveyances and contraptions from an alternative Victorian era and Wild West frontier in “Steampunk: Visions of Futures Past” during Blackbeard Festival Weekend. Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Hampton History Museum. Free. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
8 8th Annual International Day of Remembrance
Remembrance is part of a 29-year tradition, which honors the millions of African men, women and children who perished during the Middle Passage of the Transatlantic Enslavement Trade, which has been documented as “the largest forced migration in history, and incontrovertibly one of the most inhumane” according to the United Nations. Join Sankofa as we educate and celebrate the richness and diversity of the African diaspora and bring awareness to this tragic chapter in American and global history. Attendees are asked to wear white clothing and to bring flowers. Buckroe Beach. Free. 757/727-1610.www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (North First Street, Hampton, VA 23663)
8 Life’s a Beach Triathlon
The Life’s A Beach swim is 200 yards of “Almost Anything Goes,” with racers allowed to use boogie boards, swim fins, and almost anything to help them feel comfortable and have fun. The bike portion of the race is only five miles and is for fat tire bikes only, as some courses may actually involve stretches of beach riding. The two-mile beach run is laid back and includes obstacles to break up the run in a fun way. There will be an Awards Ceremony and Bodacious Beach Bash After-Party following the event. Buckroe Beach. Registration Fee. 727/422-1956. www.lifesabeachtriathlon.com (100 First Street South, Hampton, VA 23663)
15 Aberdeen Gardens Heritage Day Celebration
Aberdeen Gardens Historic & Civic Association celebrates its unique heritage with entertainment, food, and festivity. Aberdeen Gardens Museum. 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/722-2345. (55 and 57 N. Mary Peake Boulevard, Hampton, VA 23666)
28-30 52nd Annual Hampton Jazz Festival
Celebrating 52 years of music, the Hampton Jazz Festival attracts the nation’s top blues, soul, pop, and jazz performers. Hampton Coliseum. 7:30 p.m. Friday; 7 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday. Admission Fee. 757/838-4203. www.hamptonjazzfestival.com (1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
July 2019
4 Fourth at the Fort.
The celebration continues with a day full of activities, entertainment, and fireworks for the entire family. Local organizations will provide hands on activities and exhibits from 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. at Fort Monroe.This traditional Fort Monroe event includes live music, food vendors, family-friendly activities and a spectacular fireworks show launched from a platform in Mill Creek.Earlier in the day, visitors have use of the beaches, picnic areas, campground, fishing pier, waterfront restaurants and the craft brewery. Fort Monroe. Beginning 10 a.m. Free. 757/637-7778. www.fmauthority.com (20 Ingalls Road, Fort Monroe 23651)
13-14 Southeastern Guns & Knives Show
Founded in 1982 by “Doc” Mendelson, SGK Shows carry on the uniquely American tradition of Gun Shows, striving to bring the best assortment of firearms and related products together for home defense, collecting, and sport shooting. Hampton Roads Convention Center. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday. $10 Adults, $7 Ages 13 – 17, Free admission for children 12 & under accompanied by an adult 21 years or older. 757/315-1610. www.guns-knives.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
20 11th Annual Hampton Heat 200
Hampton Heat is one of the speedway’s largest races, drawing more drivers and crowds than all others held at the historic track. While the event’s purse of $10,000 is a big draw, the chance to compete on the track where racing greats Darrell Waltrip, Dale Earnhardt Jr., and Denny Hamlin began their careers, lures drivers from throughout the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Langley Speedway. 757/865-7223.www.langley-speedway.com (11 Dale Lemonds Dr. Hampton, VA 23666)
August 2019
6 Neighborhood Night Out
The Coliseum Central Neighborhood Night Out Health & Safety Fair is a free day of family fun! Hampton law enforcement agencies will provide child identification kits and have vehicles on display. The day will also feature inflatables, a rock climbing wall and area businesses providing information related to health and safety. Free Admission. 757/826-6351. www.coliseumcentral.com (1972 Power Plant Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
9-10 2019 EVP Beach Volleyball World Championships
EVP is the largest beach volleyball tour in the United States with over 18 events and 5,000 athletes competing each summer. Paradise Ocean Club. Registration Fee. www.evptour.com
17 Annual Aberdeen Gardens Fish Fry
Sponsored by the Historical Foundation of Aberdeen Gardens. Offering fish sandwiches and dinner platters served with sides, dessert and a drink. Aberdeen Gardens Museum. 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. $4.50-$7. 757/722-2345. www.aberdeengardens.org (55 and 57 N. Mary Peake Boulevard, Hampton, VA 23666)
17 Crabtown Seafood Festival
Seafood vendors, fishing boats and educational bay exhibits will line the downtown waterfront, honoring Hampton’s history as a town built by seafood. Celebrate Crabtown’s fresh catch with food vendors, nautical art and live music, filling the river walkway from Mill Point Park to Carousel Park. Downtown Hampton. 11:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. 757/727-8311. www.hampton.gov (136 Kings Way, Hampton, VA 23669)
23 The Journey
You will hear voices ripping from the pages of the good book and the emotion that our fathers and mothers felt when in the wilderness and in the slave market. You will be there following every passage of history, every chapter of the book, every footstep they took. You will laugh and you will cry. The story of the JOURNEY is our story. It is the story of the Israelites, it is the story of the Africans, it is the story of the Slaves. It is the Journey through all of our lives. You miss this show and you will miss a whole lot of your own history. The American Theatre. 5 p.m. $35. 757/722-2787. www.theamericantheatre.org (125 East Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663)
24 Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center Dedication
This ceremony is to dedicate the new Fort Monroe Visitor and Education Center and to commemorate the landing of enslaved Africans at Point Comfort in 1619. Local, State and Federal officials will participate in the ceremony. Fort Monroe. Beginning 9:30 a.m. – 11 a.m. 757/637-7778. www.fmauthority.com (Fort Monroe)
23-25 Commemoration of 1619 African Arrival
The Hampton 2019 Commemorative Commission, the Virginia 2019 Commemoration, City of Hampton, Fort Monroe Authority and the National Park Service invite you to participate in commemoration activities in recognition of the first Arrival of Africans in English North America. Fort Monroe. 757/727-6311. http://hamptonva2019.com (Fenwick Road, Fort Monroe, VA 23651)
September 2019
7 Buckroe Arts in the Park
The Buckroe Improvement League is excited to bring you the 8th Annual Buckroe Beach – Arts in the Park!! Join us at the Buckroe Beach Park in Hampton, Virginia overlooking the beautiful Chesapeake Bay. The event will be located in front of the large Buckroe Beach Pavilion adjacent to the boardwalk, allowing artists, craftsmen, Food and Beverage Trucks, Children’s Area and DJ to be in one festival area. This event is free to attend. Come out and enjoy a day of shopping (or just browsing by the beach!) Buckroe Beach. 10a.m. – 6p.m. Free. 757/727-6311. www.TheBIL.org. (North First Street, Hampton, VA 23664)
21-22 94th Annual Hampton Cup Regatta
North America’s oldest continuously-run hydroplane boat race is back for its 94th year! Enjoy a children’s area, food vendors, Bay Education, and environmental exhibits. East Mercury Bridge at Fort Monroe. Free Admission. 757/727-8311. www.hamptoncupregatta.com
21-22 Southeastern Guns & Knives Show
Founded in 1982 by “Doc” Mendelson, SGK Shows carry on the uniquely American tradition of Gun Shows, striving to bring the best assortment of firearms and related products together for home defense, collecting, and sport shooting. Hampton Roads Convention Center. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday. $10 Adults, $7 Ages 13 – 17, Free admission for children 12 & under accompanied by an adult 21 years or older. 757/315-1610. www.guns-knives.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
October 2019
4-6 Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon, 5k, Kids Kilometer & Shell Yeah Challenge
Presented by Bon Secours In Motion. All Half Marathon runners “crawl” past the beautiful waterfront in downtown Hampton making their way down the historic Chesapeake Ave. and back to the Hampton Roads Convention Center for a crawlin’ fun time at the post-race party. The Crawlin’ Crab 5K starts and finishes in front of the Hampton Roads Convention Center. The Shell Yeah Challenge is for participants who wish to run both the 5k and half marathon. All runners are invited to a post-race party with live music, food and a craft brew festival. Hampton Roads Convention Center. 2 p.m.- 6 p.m. Expo & Packet Pickup Friday; 8 a.m. 5k start, 9:30 a.m. Kids Kilometer start, 8:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Post-Race Party, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Expo & Packet Pickup Saturday; 7:30 a.m.- 8 a.m. Packet Pickup, 8 a.m. Half Marathon start, 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. J&A Post Race Party Sunday. Participation Fee, Free Admission for spectators. 757/412-1056. www.crawlincrabhalf.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
4 Annual Harvest Fest Gala
Presented by the Historical Foundation of Aberdeen Gardens, this annual event celebrates its thirteenth year with dinner, a guest speaker, awards, door prizes, and music. Hampton Roads Convention Center. 6:30 p.m.-10:00 p.m. Admission Fee. 757/722-2345. www.aberdeengardens.org (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
5 Burning of Hampton
Through historical reenactment, living history and powerful audio-visual presentations, experience the dramatic Civil War burning of the city of Hampton in advance of oncoming Union forces. Downtown. Sunset. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
12 Phoebus Fall Festival
This is the 49th year for this event! Presented by the community of Phoebus, this event features local craft beers, vendors, music, dancers, pie eating contest, doggie costume parade, and more. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Free Admission. 757/826-1862. www.phoebusvaevents.com (212 E Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663)
18-20 Fort Monroe Ghost Walk
Come and discover where history meets mystery! Learn the hidden secrets of Fort Monroe’s rich 400 year history during our guided ghost walks. Special priced tickets go on sale in September. Tours are rain or shine. Please be advised that this is a walking tour and most of the areas of the tour are not handicapped accessible. This tour is not recommended for children under the age of 12. Children under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult. Fort Monroe. 6:15 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. $15 in advance, $20 night of tour. 757/690-8061. www.fmauthority.com (Fort Monroe)
19 Bluebird Gap Farm Fall Festival
Each year the City of Hampton ushers in the fall season at the Bluebird Gap Farm Festival. The festival offers a variety of children’s activities, hayrides and much more. Entry and activities are free, and food vendors and pumpkins are available for purchase. 757/825-4750. http://www.hampton.gov/139/Bluebird-Gap-Farm (60 Pine Chapel Rd. Hampton, VA 23666)
21-25 Hampton Horror Tours
These 60-minute tours include eerie tales of Old Hampton and the Coastal Virginia area. The tour will encounter actors portraying the first witch recorded in America, ghosts of Civil War soldiers, pirates from Blackbeard’s Crew, a speakeasy proprietor, escaped prisoners, yellow fever victims, and more characters from the city’s tales of mystery and the macabre. Each tour will include the grisly side of Hampton history; special surprises and a spooky lantern tour of the St. John’s Church graveyard, and other points of fright along Queen Street and around downtown Hampton. Hampton History Museum. 6:30 p.m. & 8 p.m. Admission Fee. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
26 Downtown Halloween Block Party
Get those creative juices flowing to come up with your most outlandish Halloween costume ever and head to downtown Hampton for the Halloween Block Party. Event starts at 6pm and the band begins at 7pm. Concert free for all ages band starts at 7-10:30pm. Children’s Area 6-8pm. Witches brews and food available for purchase and to lift your spirits! . Downtown Hampton. 6 p.m. -11 p.m. Free Admission. www.hamptonblockparty.com (Queens Way, Downtown Hampton, 23669)
November 2019
1-3 NekoCon 21: Happy Meowloween
The Hampton Roads Convention Center welcomes back over 3,000 otkau (fanboy’s and fangirl’s) to NekoCon 20, a Japanese anime convention featuring everything from cosplay (a combination of the words costume and play) to L.A.R.P. (Live Action Role Playing) in which attendees dress up as their favorite anime characters and become part of the action. Members are welcome to attend various panels and workshops, purchase merchandise in the dealer’s room, and be a part of main attractions like karaoke contests, art shows, and nightly dances. Hampton Roads Convention Center. Admission Fee. 757/727-8311.www.nekocon.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
7-9 2019 Jazz Legacy Foundation 7th Annual Gala Weekend
9-11 Bodacious Bazaar
The Bodacious Bazaar is an amazing shopping experience that happens twice a year in the Coastal Virginia area. Our show’s mission is to fund our local nonprofits through quality shopping opportunities and to promote our communities talented artists. With perfect timing for holiday shopping this event has something for everyone, in a beautiful indoor setting. Vendors, artists, and shoppers alike can’t afford to miss this amazing show! Hampton Roads Convention Center. 10 – 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday. Adults $7, Two Day $10, Children $4, and Children in strollers are free. 757/315-1610.www.bodaciousbazaar.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
9 Veterans Day Ceremony
In partnership with the Boy Scouts of America we will honor those who have served in the United States military. Attendees will be invited to place US flags in the field for a week-long observance. Program in the field between Batteries Church and DeRussy (location subject to change). Fort Monroe. 9 a.m. Free. 757/690-8061. www.fmauthority.com (Fort Monroe)
23 21st Annual Coliseum Central Holiday Parade
You won’t want to miss the marching bands, floats, helium balloons and more as they take center stage in the festivities; Santa Claus is also sure to stop by! Peninsula Town Center. 9:30 a.m. Free Admission. 757/826-6351. www.coliseumcentral.com (along Coliseum Drive and through Peninsula Town Center)
30-Dec 1 Southeastern Guns & Knives Show
Founded in 1982 by “Doc” Mendelson, SGK Shows carry on the uniquely American tradition of Gun Shows, striving to bring the best assortment of firearms and related products together for home defense, collecting, and sport shooting. Hampton Roads Convention Center. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday. $10 Adults, $7 Ages 13 – 17, Free admission for children 12 & under accompanied by an adult 21 years or older. 757/315-1610. www.guns-knives.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
December 2019
6 Phoebus Holiday Illumination
Join us for the sixth annual illumination event! Shop with Phoebus merchants for special deals, and more. There will special performances and Santa will even stop by! Mallory Street, Mellen Street and Hope Street in Phoebus. 5p.m. – 9 p.m. Free Admission. 757/826-1862. www.phoebusevents.com (212 E Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663)
6-7 Annual Holiday and Kwanzaa Marketplace
You are cordially invited to join the Hampton University Museum for our Holiday and Kwanzaa Marketplace on December 1-2, 2017. On Friday, beginning at 10:00 a.m., purchase your holiday and Kwanzaa gifts from the museum shop and local vendors specializing in African, African-American and other handcrafted items. On that Friday evening from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., enjoy special performances including choral selections by Hampton City Schools Choirs; art activities for children sponsored by HUM Tree House; and refreshments provided by the Hampton Chapter of Links, Inc. Admission is FREE for all activities on Friday. Return on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. for our Holiday and Kwanzaa Jazz Brunch and Marketplace which includes live music and performances; heavy hors d’oeurves, desserts and beverages. Friday: 10:00 a.m.– 7:00 p.m. Saturday: 12:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. Cost (Saturday events only): $20 for adults, $10 for children age 10 and under. 757/727-5308 http://museum.hamptonu.edu/ (Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668)
7 Fort Monroe Mistletoe Homes Tour
Celebrate the season with a walking tour of several of the most beautiful, historic homes, and other points of interests, all decorated for the holidays. Special priced tickets will be available in mid-October. Fort Monroe. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission Fee. 757/637-7778. www.fmauthority.com (Fort Monroe)
7 Annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade
Cruise into the spirit of the holiday season at the 31st annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade. More than 20 boats are expected to participate. This parade of illuminated power and sail boats will be visible from anywhere along the Hampton River, however spectators wanting to hear the narration will want to find a spot near the Hampton Maritime Center. Downtown Hampton waterfront. 7 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-1276. www.downtownhampton.com (710 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA 23669)
14 Holiday Open House
Whether you are searching for a holiday gift for the family, friends, or as a treat to yourself, you’re sure to find it at the Hampton Holiday Market. The market features heritage foods, arts and traditional crafts, demonstrations, roasted chestnuts, hot cider, entertainment, and more. Hampton History Museum. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Free Admission. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
14 Holly Days Illuminated Parade
The Peninsula’s largest illuminated parade! Join us for an evening of enchantment as you view the creative floats, listen to the high school bands, salute the military marching units and exciting drill teams, and wave at the beauty queens. Of course this parade is not complete without everyone’s favorite, Santa Claus. Downtown Hampton. 7 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-8311. www.hampton.gov/parks (Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA 23669)
Ongoing Events
(Tuesdays) Taco Tuesday
With STUFT-Not Your Average Street Food. St. George Brewing Company. 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. 757/865-7781. www.stgbeer.com
(Fridays) Live Music Friday
St. George Brewing Company. 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. 757/865-7781. www.stgbeer.com
(First Monday of every month) Port Hampton Lecture Series
Features authors, living historians, and local history buffs discussing topics from Hampton’s past as well as related historical subjects of a regional and national flavor. Memberships available at the door. Hampton History Museum. 7:00 p.m. Free Admission for members; Non-members, $5.00. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
(Second Saturday of every month) Hampton History Museum 2nd Saturday Family Event
Family friendly activities and creative experiences relating to exhibitions and history themes each month. Hampton History Museum. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-1610.www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
(Third Wednesday of every month) Lunch In Time Lecture
This is a fun and informative series, you’ll never know who may attend! Bring your lunch, and have a drink and dessert on us. Hampton History Museum. 12 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-1610.www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
(Third Wednesday of every month) Front Porch Music Series
Some of the area’s best blues, bluegrass, gospel, jazz and folk musicians share music that has shaped the nation’s soundscape. Hampton History Museum. 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Free Admission for members, Non-members, $5.00. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
(Quarterly throughout the year) Our Stories, Our Time Series
Each quarter featured speakers open up a new topic for attendees to share their personal stories that are recorded for posterity. Hampton History Museum. 7 p.m. Free. 757/727-1610.www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
May 26-August 25 (Sundays) Groovin’ by the Bay (Sundays June -August)
Sunday evenings will be rocking at the beach this summer with a musical mix including everything from beach, pop, oldies, Motown and swing. Whether listening or dancing, you’ll enjoy this evening of music on the Chesapeake Bay! Food is available for purchase. Buckroe Beach Park, 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-8311. www.hampton.gov/parks
(Saturdays April – October) Racing at Larry King Law’s Langley Speedway
Nearly every Saturday, satisfy your need for speed at this historic NASCAR home track. The only weekly racing series in Coastal Virginia. Langley Speedway. Racing starts at 7 p.m. Admission Fee. 757/865-7223. www.langley-speedway.com
(Saturdays) May 4- August 31 Downtown Hampton Block Party
Hampton takes to the streets every Saturday night for a fun-filled street fair including live musical entertainment, cold refreshments and plenty of activities for the young and old. Downtown Hampton. 6 p.m. -11 p.m. Free Admission. www.hamptonblockparty.com (Queens Way, Downtown Hampton, 23669)
(May 31 – August 5) Peninsula Pilots Baseball
Cheer on the Pilots during the 2016 season! War Memorial Stadium. All home games start at 7:05 p.m. 757/254-2222. www.peninsulapilots.com
(Thursdays) June 6- August 15 Music By the Bay Concert Series
Bring your own picnic, chairs and Frisbees and enjoy summer sunsets by the Chesapeake Bay, along with great regional military bands—US Navy Fleet Forces Bands, US Air Force Heritage of America Bands and other musical groups. Large groups are welcome. Continental Park. 7 p.m. Free. 757/637-7778. www.fmauthority.com
2019 Commemorative Events
Friday, January 18 Sankofa Film
Tuesday, January 22 Virginia’s Original People in the Colony Symposium
Friday, January 25 Ain’t I America: Selections from the Petrucci Family Collection of African American Art Opening Reception
Friday, February 1 Reception Launching 2019 Commemoration
Friday, February 8 Virginia Indian & African Presence in the Colony Symposium
Friday & Saturday, February 15 & 16 Africans in America: America’s Journey through Slavery
Sunday, February 17 Unity Worship Service
Tuesday, February 25 Faith-Based 1619 Community Roundtable
Friday, March 8 Rebirth of a Nation
Tuesday, March 19 Spheres of Migration ASALH Panel Discussion
March 21-23 The Global Status of Women and Girls Conference
Thursday, March 28 Angels Over Tuskegee
April 18-19 Native American Lecture Series and Symposium
Saturday, April 20 Heritage Day
Tuesday, April 23 Economic Entrepreneurship Roundtable Series
Saturday, May 4 The Contraband Historical Society presents “ESCAPE TO FREEDOM”
Tuesday, June 4 Christianity and the African Influence, 1619-2019
Monday-Thursday, July 15-18 2019 K-12 Institute
Tuesday, July 16 Generation Z and 1619 Roundtable
Saturday, July 20 International Day of Remembrance
August 20-22 National Cities United Conference
Friday August 23 – Hampton 2019 Commemoration of the First African Landing
Sunday, August 25
Saturday, August 24 Fort Monroe Visitor Center Dedication
Saturday, August 24 African Landing Commemorations
Sunday August 25 2019 Day of Healing
Thursday – Saturday, September 26-28 The Making of America Conference
November 5-10 The Association for the Study of Worldwide African Diaspora
Ongoing Exhibits 1619 Arrival Exhibit at Hampton History Museum
Pathways to Education: History of the Hampton University Museum
Legend: 40 Years of Service, Dr. William R. and Mrs. Norma B. Harvey at Hampton University Museum
Ryan Downey | Hampton CVB | Director of Media & Community Relations
1919 Commerce Drive, Suite 290 | Hampton, VA 23666 | 757 728 5328 tel | 757 896 4600 fax
Visit us online at www.visithampton.com