Fall Activities Outside in Downtown Norfolk 

Downtown Norfolk is packed with waterfront festivals, lively outdoor markets, open-air art celebrations, and cozy patio firepits that let you enjoy the crisp fall weather from day to night.

Cozy Outdoor Firepits & Patio Nights 

Gather around the fire as evening temperature drops to enjoy fall cocktails, delicious dining, and warm starlight vibes. 

• Grain: Cozy up around their glowing rooftop firepits with a craft pint or warm seasonal cocktail while taking in panoramic autumn views of the Elizabeth River. 

• Leone’s Italian Bistro: Relax in the charming outdoor courtyard at Leone’s. With live music every Wednesday at 5:30pm on the patio from September 23 – October 28.  

• Waterside District: Head down to the riverfront to gather around the outdoor firepits at Waterside. It’s a lively open-air spot to grab a drink, listen to live music, and enjoy the brisk evening breeze along the Elizabeth River. 

Outdoor Fall Festivals & Community Gatherings 

Mark your calendar for Downtown’s premier outdoor autumn events, packed with live entertainment, local flavors, and family-friendly fun. 

• Wednesday Wind Down (5:30pm):  Weekly performance on the lawn at Harrison Opera House, free and open to the public. Ends on October 21.  

• Children’s Festival (Oct 3):  This annual autumn festival features hands-on activities, live performances, costumed characters, and creative play for families. 

• d'Art Fall Bazaar at The Plot (Oct 10): Browse unique handmade creations from local artisans, shop fine craft goods, and enjoy live local music in the autumn sunshine. 

• NEON Nights (Oct 16): Stroll past illuminated murals, enjoy live street performances, explore pop-up gallery spaces, and celebrate the district's vibrant creative community. 

• Town Point Virginia Wine Festival (Oct 16–18): Sample hundreds of vintages from Virginia’s top wineries, enjoy gourmet food pairings, and relax on the lawn with friends during a crisp fall weekend. 

• 40th Annual Grand Illumination Parade (Nov 21): Celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Grand Illumination Parade in Downtown Norfolk! Want to help make the magic happen? Sign up to volunteer here!  

Downtown Norfolk’s seasonal festivals, open-air art experiences, and fireside patios lets you experience the very bestof Norfolk's waterfront, culinary, and creative assets while celebrating the crisp autumn weather. 

Ready to head downtown? Parking just got a lot easier. To support local businesses and make your visit stress-free, the City of Norfolk offers the first 2 hours of parking for FREE at 14 select downtown garages and lots. 

Note: After the initial 2-hour free period, standard hourly rates apply. Please keep in mind that special event parking (like major concerts or festivals) is typically excluded and may require a flat collect-on-entry fee.