Events
From outdoor parks and green spaces to museum courtyards and waterfront stages, Portsmouth’s diverse venues set the stage for parties, festivals, concerts, and more. Celebrate culture, food, art, history, music and pride in the community during events held throughout the year.
Featured Event
Olde Towne Holiday Music Festival
Spend the day enjoying the sounds of the holiday season and lots of fun ! This family favorite holiday tradition features strolling carolers, a variety of holiday music performances, bounce house and kids activates, fire marshmallow pit stations, and more!
What’s Happening Now
Signature Events
Family friendly entertainment for 40 years and counting!
Olde Towne Ghost Walk
The Olde Towne Ghost Walk is a 40-year-old walking tour based on the Jack-the-Ripper Walks in London, where you will learn about the haunting history of Olde Towne. Stretching over 20 blocks, you will encounter reenactors along the way, who dare to tell the ghostly tales of a time long since passed.
Umoja Festival
Listen to music, participate in workshops, taste ethnic foods, and browse the marketplace in this celebration of contemporary and ancient African culture.
Seawall Festival
Waterfront festival occurs annually to coincide with Norfolk’s Harborfest. There’s a party on both sides of the river, with bands, dancing, food and venders.
Olde Towne Holiday Music Festival
This family favorite holiday tradition features strolling carolers, a Children’s Parade, and a variety of holiday music performances.
Winter Wonderland
Visit the Children’s Museum of Virginia to enjoy reimagined holiday exhibits, such as the Eye Spy scavenger hunt, Sock Skating, and a visit with Santa in the “Santa Hut.” Walk over to the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center to enjoy the nostalgic Coleman Collection re-envisioned.
Scottish Walk
Modeled after Scotland’s Hogmanay Festival when townspeople honor their community and merchants, wishing luck and prosperity in the coming year.
Seawall Art Show
The Seawall Art Show features works for sale by 85+ artists and includes a student art show, live entertainment, and food for sale.
Cock Island Race
Head to High Street Landing for this “Celebration of the Sea,” where you can enjoy live entertainment, food, and libations along the water.
More Events
Looking for something to do after work or this weekend? See what’s happening around
Portsmouth this week!
Olde Towne’s Farmers’ Market
Shop for seasonal fresh produce, fresh baked goods, coffees & teas, and other local crafts and goods.
Olde Towne Antique & Flea Market
Enjoy the eclectic collection of unique and antique wares the first Saturday of each month.
Sunset Thursdays
Leave the stress of the workday behind, and meet your friends at Festival Park for the city’s free summer concert series.
First Fridays
Enjoy performances in the courtyard and free admission to featured exhibits at the Portsmouth Art & Cultural Center.
Happening Now
Check out our Happening Now Events page to see a list of current and upcoming happenings around Portsmouth!
