Showtime! Guide to Entertainment in Downtown Norfolk 

Whether you’re a sports fan, a theater enthusiast, or someone who just wants to dance Downtown Norfolk is the pulse of the region.  

Major Stage Productions and Local Theater 

Downtown is home to some of the most prestigious venues in Virginia, offering everything from blockbuster musicals to local improv. 

• Chrysler Hall: Broadway in Norfolk with hits like The Lion King (May 2026), concerts, and major touring acts. 

• Push Comedy Theater: For a more intimate (and hilarious) night, catch an improv or sketch show. Keep an eye out for fan favorites like Improvageddon. 

• Hurrah Players: Virginia’s leading family theater company puts on heartwarming, professional-quality productions at the Hugh R. Copeland Center. 

• Murder Mystery Dinners: Frequently hosted at various downtown spots, these interactive evenings let you play detective while enjoying a multi-course meal. 

• Generic Theatre: Located below Chrysler Hall  

• Harrison Opera House: Grand home for Virginia Opera.  

• Historic Wells Theater: Timeless stage for professional theater. 

Festivals and Outdoor Fun 

The Elizabeth River isn’t just a view, it’s the stage for some of Norfolk’s biggest community celebrations. 

• Virginia International Tattoo, Scope, April 16-19:You can sip your way through more than 200 vintages from over 25 of Virginia’s premier wineries while enjoying sweeping views of the river. 

• Spring Town Point Virginia Wine Festival, Town Point Park, May 2–3: You can sip your way through more than 200 vintages from over 25 of Virginia’s premier wineries while enjoying sweeping views of the river. 

• Bayou Bon Vivant Cajun Music & Food Festival, Town Point Park, May 15–17: By celebrating the traditions of our sister cities to the south, Norfolk reminds us that food and music are the ultimate universal languages. 

• First Fridays Block Parties: First Fridays are back again in 2026 in April, May, August, and September. The 300 block of Granby Street transforms into a massive street party with live music, food trucks, and local vendors. 

• Norfolk Tides Baseball: Head to Harbor Park to see the Tides. It’s more than just a game, it's about the fireworks, the food, and the best view in baseball. 

• Patriotic Festival, Scope, May 22-24: Enjoy performances from Zach Top, Brooks & Dunn, and The Red Clay Strays.  

• Sail250, Town Point Park, June 19-23: A massive procession of 60+ ships from 20+ countries. It coincides with the 50th Annual Harborfest and Juneteenth celebrations. 

Nightlife and Music 

When the sun goes down, the volume goes up. Downtown Norfolk offers a variety of ways to experience live music and late-night vibes. 

• The NorVa: Consistently ranked one of the best small music venues in the world, this is the place to catch national touring bands.  

• Spirit of Norfolk / City Cruises: Take the party to the water with a Nightlife Cruise, featuring live DJs, buffet dining, and dancing as you cruise past the lighted naval fleet. 

• Waterside District: A one-stop shop for entertainment with multiple bars, live music stages, and games. 

• Chicho’s Backstage: A go-to for local live music sets and a late-night pizza slice. 

• Baxter's: Pool, sports, and upbeat rhythms.  

• Grain: Music with a skyline view.  

• Tap It Local: Craft beer with lively soundtracks.  

• Grace O’ Malley's Irish Pub & Restaurant:Traditional tunes in cozy pub.  

Why It Matters 

Entertainment in Downtown Norfolk isn’t just about the show. When you grab a ticket to a Tides game or walk through a First Friday block party, you’re experiencing the very best of what makes this city move.