Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival — August 21–22, 2026
Every summer there are a handful of events that remind me exactly why I love living and working in Hampton Roads, and the Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival is near the top of that list. This one has been going strong for 43 years, and it just keeps getting better.
What Is It?
The Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival is the area's longest-running outdoor jazz festival — 43 years and counting. It's held right on the downtown Norfolk waterfront at Town Point Park, with the Elizabeth River as your backdrop. Nationally and internationally recognized jazz artists perform across two full days, drawing thousands of fans from all over the region. This isn't a small local gathering — it's a legitimate, big-deal festival that just happens to be right in our backyard.
What to Expect
Think great music, a gorgeous waterfront setting, and a crowd of people who genuinely love jazz. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming — the kind of event where you bring a blanket, grab some food, and settle in for an afternoon or evening of incredible live music. It's a fantastic outing for couples, families, and anyone who just wants to soak up summer in a beautiful setting.
Dates & Details
• **Dates:** Friday, August 21 – Saturday, August 22, 2026
• **Location:** Town Point Park, downtown Norfolk, VA
• **Tickets:** Go on sale in January 2026 — mark your calendar so you don't miss out
• **Cost:** Ticketed event; pricing to be announced
I'd strongly recommend grabbing your tickets as soon as they're available in January. Events like this sell out, and you don't want to be scrambling in August.
Why It Matters to Our Community
This is the kind of event that makes Hampton Roads more than just a place to live — it makes it a place to put down real roots. When I'm helping families find a home here, I always tell them that the lifestyle and the community are part of the value, and summers like this are exactly what I mean.
Mark your calendars, grab your tickets in January, and I'll see you on the waterfront. This one is always worth it.