Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 16, 2013
Contact: Ryan LaFata, 757/728-5328
[email protected]
Mary Fugere, 757/728-5327
[email protected]
Hampton, Virginia Announces
2014 African American Events Calendar
--City spotlights history, heritage, and entertainment in year-long calendar-Hampton, VA- In 2014, Hampton, Virginia attractions, entertainment venues, and
festivals will present a brilliant list of African-American inspired events to educate and
enlighten. Come celebrate the rich history and cultural heritage of Hampton.
A sampling of this year’s roster ranges from special black history events such as
Aberdeen Gardens’ 17th annual Black History Celebration Breakfast on February 1
and the Virginia Air & Space Center’s Black History Month Program with Tuskegee
Airmen on February 8, to events that recognize Hampton’s historic past like the Seventh
annual Hunt for Hampton History March 29. The 14th annual International
Children’s Festival, taking place April 19 at Mill Point Park in downtown Hampton,
will allow a unique opportunity for children of all ages to experience the sights, sounds,
and tastes of more than 30 cultures from across the globe.
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 2
On October 5 the Hampton History Museum welcomed Toward Freedom: Hampton
and the Contraband, an original and powerful exhibition that tells the story of the men,
women, and children who escaped slavery to seek the possibility of freedom at Fort
Monroe as “Contraband of War.” Continuing through January 30, 2014, the exhibit uses
artifacts, documents, photos, recreated settings, and audio-visual presentations, to explore
critical questions surrounding slavery and the individuals who changed the world by their
actions just one month into the American Civil War.
On October 12, 2013, Hampton University welcomed The Dianne Whitfield-Locke &
Carnell Locke Collection: Building on Tradition. The exhibition showcases paintings,
prints, and drawings from a collection that numbers well over 1100 works. Master artists
from the 19th century on display include Henry O. Tanner, Robert Duncanson, Grafton
Tyler Brown., Aaron Douglass, Palmer Hayden, Jacob Lawrence, and a rare work by
William H. Johnson. In addition, the exhibition will also feature 20 pieces of sculpture,
including works by Richard Hunt, Augusta Savage, Beulah Woodward, Richmond
Barthe, and art historian and artist, Dr. David Driskell. The free exhibition runs through
May 2014.
The Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival XXV returns to the Hampton Roads Convention Center
February 27 – March 2, offering more than 250 vendor booths showcasing quilting
supplies, sewing related craft items, clothing, textiles, books, antique quilts, and more.
This year, Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival celebrates its silver anniversary! Those entering
the Quilt Competition were asked, “What is the ‘silver lining’ in your quilting world?”
The accepted quilt entries compete in Traditional, Innovative, and Wall Quilt categories
as well as for the “Best of Show” title, with prizes totaling more than $14,000 in value.
The winning works of the quilt competition will travel to the Quilt Fest of New Jersey so
that their beauty may inspire another region’s quilters and textile artists. Cost is $15.00
(includes re-admission) and $13.00 Sunday only. Children under 16 are free.
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 4
Located in Hampton’s historic Phoebus district, The American Theatre is pleased to
showcase two African-American heritage-based performances during Black History
Month. On February 8, the venue will play host to Walnut Street Theatre in Driving
Miss Daisy. Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Era, Driving Miss Daisy tells
the story of Miss Daisy and her newly hired chauffeur, Hoke, who discover they have
much in common. On February 9, The American Theatre welcomes Mad River Theatre
Works in The Story of Jackie Robinson. This new play depicts the events that shaped
Jackie Robinson's character and his struggle to gain acceptance and the tremendous
obstacles he overcame on his way to changing the face of our national past time and our
nation.
Traditions for which to make travel plans now include the 46th annual Hampton Jazz
Festival at the Hampton Coliseum June 27-29 and the 24th annual Afrikan American
Festival, being held in Mill Point Park in downtown Hampton on the same dates. The
Hampton Jazz Festival presents the nation’s top rhythm & blues, pop, soul and jazz artists
in an event that is as much a social custom as it is entertaining, consistently filling the
11,000-seat arena for each performance during the three-day event. The African
American Commemorative Committee and Peninsula Society for Sickle Cell Anemia
entertain by day during the same weekend with the Afrikan American Festival, an
alcohol-free affair with clothing, art, crafts, musical entertainment, African dancers, and
incredible food! In addition, Aberdeen Gardens Historic Museum will also welcome
visitors for guided tours this weekend.
The Casemate Museum at Fort Monroe, landmarks such as Emancipation Oak on the
Hampton University campus, and Aberdeen Gardens Historic Museum are other
Hampton attractions that compliment the special event calendar and are available yearround. Established in 1868, Hampton University Museum is the nation’s oldest
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 5
African-American museum and maintains a collection of 9,000 artifacts and fine art
representing African, African-American, Oceanic, Asian, and Native-American cultures.
January 2014
10-11 34th Annual Virginia Duals
The Peninsula Wrestling Association hosts the 34th Annual Virginia Duals Wrestling
Tournament at the Hampton Coliseum. The team advancement concept started in
Hampton, Virginia with the Virginia Duals in 1981 and is now used by Virginia and
many other states to determine the best high school team in the state. The National
College Wrestling Coaches Association also recognized the value of the Team
Advancement concept and now has the National Dual Team Championships to recognize
the best college team in the nation. The Virginia Duals Wrestling Tournament is the
largest college and high school tournament in the world. Hampton Coliseum. Admission
Fee. 757/838-4203. www.virginiaduals.org (1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
25 Theatre IV in Buffalo Soldier
Based on the true story of our nation's longest surviving Buffalo Soldier and veteran of
the Spanish-American War, this dramatic play with music tells the heroic story of the 9th
and 10th Cavalries. These brave horse soldiers served our country well but received little
of the recognition they deserved. In 1996, Buffalo Soldier was one of twelve plays
selected The Best American Plays for Young Audiences and has been performed at the
Pentagon in honor of African American History Month. Buffalo Soldier was developed
with support from Lila Wallace - Reader's Digest New Works for Young Audiences, a
program of the Lila Wallace - Reader's Digest Fund. Q & A following each performance.
The American Theatre. 11:00 a.m. & 2:00 p.m. $10.00. 757/722-2787.
www.hamptonarts.net (125 East Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663)
26 Hampton University Founder's Day
Gen. Samuel Armstrong founded Hampton University 144 years ago. Each year, HU’s
President Dr. William R. Harvey and other members of the HU community attend a
commemorative wreath-placing ceremony at Armstrong’s gravesite, a ceremony
featuring a keynote speaker and an awards presentation. Includes performances by the
Hampton University choir. Hampton University. 757/727-5402. www.hamptonu.edu
(Hampton University Hampton, VA 23668)
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 6
February 2014
1 17th Annual Black History Program Celebration Breakfast
Celebrate the start of Black History Month with members of the Aberdeen Gardens
Historic and Civic Association at the 17th annual Black History Program Celebration
Breakfast. This year’s speaker is Belinda Adams. Crowne Plaza Hampton Marina Hotel.
8:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m. $25.00. 757/722-2345. (700 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA
23669)
1 Sixth Annual My Time Women’s Show
Women from all over Hampton Roads attend this informative and entertaining event to
shop, sample and gather information about a wide range of topics, and after four years of
successful events we’re confident that you’ll find your demographic among our 3,000
attendees. Whether your product or service relates to health, fashion, beauty, home
decor, family life, cooking or anything else women would be interested in, your target
audience will be at the MyTime Women’s Show! Hampton Roads Convention Center.
10:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. $5.00 per ticket; $35.00 for VIP. 757/315-1610.
www.mytimeshow.com (1610 Coliseum Drive Hampton, VA 23666)
8 Black History Month Celebration
Join us as we celebrate the achievements of African-Americans in aviation, space and
technology. Meet members of the Tidewater Chapter of Tuskegee Airmen, and more.
Virginia Air & Space Center. Included in regular exhibit admission. 757/727-0900.
www.vasc.org (600 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA 23669)
8 Walnut Street Theatre in Driving Miss Daisy
Founded in 1809, Walnut Street Theatre is the oldest continuously operating theatre in
the United States. For more than 200 years, this venerable institution has stood the test of
time to become a staple of the cultural community. Driving Miss Daisy marks Walnut
Street's fourth national tour. Alfred Uhry's classic play is a funny, timeless, searing, and
ultimately hopeful meditation on growing old, relationships, and loyalty. This iconic take
of price, changing times, and the transformative power of friendship has warmed the
hearts of millions. Set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Era, Driving Miss Daisy
tells the story of Miss Daisy and her newly hired chauffeur, Hoke, who discover they
have much in common. The American Theatre. 8:00 p.m. $25.00-$30.00. 757/722-2787.
www.hamptonarts.net (125 East Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663)
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9 Mad River Theatre Works in The Story of Jackie Robinson
At the start of the summer of 1847, television was brand new, the sound barrier had not
been broken,and baseball was a white man's game. By the time the fall arrived, all that
had changed:
President Truman addressed the nation for the first time on RV, Chuck Yeager flew faster
than any man ever had, and Jackie Robinson because the first African-American to play
major league baseball. This new play with music by Mad River Theatre Works depicts
the events that shaped Jackie Robinson's character and his struggle to gain acceptance
and the tremendous obstacles he overcame on his way to changing the face of our
national past time and our nation. Q & A following performance. The American Theatre.
2:30 p.m. $15.00. 757/722-2787. www.hamptonarts.net (125 East Mellen Street,
Hampton, VA 23663)
10 Sixth Annual Youth Career Expo
Presented by the Peninsula Council for Workforce Development, the Virginia Peninsula
Chamber of Commerce and the six greater Peninsula school districts, this event will bring
professionals in industry, education and business together to focus on preparing our youth
for the workplace. As in the past, the Expo will include mock interviews. This year the
students will have an opportunity to participate in a roundtable discussion with a panel of
Human Resources professionals. They will discuss interviewing skills, social networks,
workplace readiness skills and what employers are looking for in an employee. During
the Expo, students will be able to talk with representatives from different “worlds” of
business, industry and education in the Business Hall. The “worlds” include -Construction, Advanced Manufacturing, Government/Public Safety, Finance, Hospitality,
STEM, Defense, Education, Automotive, Green Jobs, Real Estate, Healthcare as well as
the “World of Newport News Shipbuilding.” Hampton Roads Convention Center. 8:00
a.m.-3:00 p.m. 757/325-8158. www.vaPeninsulaChamber.com (1610 Coliseum Drive,
Hampton, VA 23666)
27 – March 2 Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival XXV
Celebrate 25 years of quilt, wearable, and textile art at Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival XXV,
one of the largest and most anticipated quilt gatherings on the eastern seaboard. The
theme of this year’s festival “What If?” gives entrants an opportunity to relate what their
quilt would say…if it could talk! Other highlights include a Merchants Mall with over
250 vendor booths (showcasing everything from quilting supplies to sewing related craft
items), clothing, textiles, books, antique quilts, and more. Hampton Roads Convention
Center. 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Thursday-Saturday; 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Sunday. $15.00
includes readmission, $13.00 Sunday only, Ages 16 and under free. 757/315-1610.
www.quiltfest.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
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March 2014
7 Hampton Spring Jam
Hampton Spring Jam featuring Keith Sweat, GUY, SWV and Dru Hill hosted by Slick Rick is
Friday, March 7, 2014 at 8 pm. Don't miss the concert party that's kicking spring off
right! *Artists scheduled to appear are subject to change. Hampton Coliseum. 8:00 p.m. $45.50$69.50. 757/838-4203. www.hamptoncoliseum.org (1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
7-9 Fourth Annual Hampton Roads Tattoo Festival
Presented by Folk City Tattoo and Twisted Ink magazine, the Fourth Annual Hampton Roads
Tattoo Festival will celebrate all aspects of the tattooing industry. During the event, interested
attendees have the option of speaking with tattoo artists and having the work performed on-site.
The cost of each tattoo is in addition to the entrance fee price and is negotiated between customer
and artist. Hundreds of tattoo artists, tons of vendors, and live music/shows all weekend. Whether
you want to get tattooed, do a little shopping, or just admire some of the best artists in the
business, the Hampton Roads Tattoo Festival has something for just about everyone. Even the
kids can enjoy face painting and temporary tattoos! Hampton Roads Convention Center. 12:00
p.m.-12:00 a.m. Friday; 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 a.m. Saturday; 12:00 p.m.- 8:00 p.m. Sunday. $25.00
daily, $45.00 Weekend Pass, $35.00 Military Weekend Pass. 757/484-1319.
www.hrtattoofest.com (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
29 Seventh Annual Hunt for Hampton History
This event focuses on our local history and includes re-enactors, music, hands-on activities, and
interactive displays that celebrate our “story” and help us explore and preserve the past. This is an
event for families and those interested in telling their part of Hampton history. Hampton History
Museum. Saturday 10:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-1610.
www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
29 Alex de Grassi & Andrew York
Two leading innovators of the guitar, Alex de Grassi and Andrew York, join forces to fuse the
sounds and traditions of steel and nylon into a unique duo program. With roots in seemingly
different traditions - de Grassi as a largely self-taught folk and jazz musician and York as a
trained classical artist - a mutual passion for exploring all types of music has led these two
acclaimed composers/performers to branch out and find a common space there the steel-string
and classical guitar interact seamlessly. Juxtaposing original compositions, improvisation, and
unlikely arrangements of everything from Monk to Piazzolla to the Police, their duo
performances take audiences for a ride through astonishingly diverse terrain. This collaboration is
sure to delight! The American Theatre. 8:00 p.m. $25.00-$30.00. 757/722-2787.
www.hamptonarts.net (125 East Mellen Street, Hampton, VA 23663)
30 Zumba Love Fest
Join over 80 of 757's wonderful Zumba Instructors along with our LIVE musical guest for the
2014 Zumba LOVE Fest! We are coming together to promote health and fitness in the Hampton
Roads area. Hampton Roads Convention Center. 757/315-1610. (1610 Coliseum Drive, Hampton,
VA 23666)
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 9
April 2014
18-20 Hoop Group (Boys 9th, 10th, 11th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.hoopgroup.com
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
19 14th Annual International Children’s Festival
Travel around the world during the International Children's Festival. Enjoy the rich array of
sights, sounds, and tastes of distant lands that will captivate the senses of children and adults
alike. Experience the beauty and wonder of exotic places as over thirty-five countries and cultures
showcase their unique heritages. Food and beverage available for purchase. Mill Point Park,
10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-8311. www.hampton.gov/parks/icf (100 Eaton
Street, Hampton, VA 23669)
2-4 The Bodacious Boardwalk Bazaar & Spring Festival
The Bodacious Boardwalk Bazaar & Spring Festival is an amazing three day shopping experience
happening at the historic Fort Monroe in Hampton, Virginia. This festival includes talented
artists, crafters, local businesses, and a car show at an extraordinary venue. Our show donates a
percentage of its net to several chosen non-profits each show. Fort Monroe. 10:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Friday & Saturday; 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Sunday. $7.00 Adults; $4.00 Children; $10.00 two day
tickets. www.bodaciousbazaar.com (Fort Monroe, Hampton VA 23651)
May 2014
5 Hampton Heritage Day
A commemoration of the first settlers’ landing in 1607 and the peaceful meeting between the
Native Americans and the European Settlers. More information to follow. 757/727-1610.
www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org
16-18 Boo Williams NIKE Spring Boys Basketball Invitational (15U-17U)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.boowilliamsbball.org (5
Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
30-June 1 15th Annual Blackbeard Pirate Festival
This raucous festival was first held during OpSail 2000 as a means to celebrate Hampton’s
maritime heritage and relationship with the notorious menace, Blackbeard—aka Edward Teach.
Living history and family fun go hand-in-hand as Hampton reenacts and celebrates the demise of
Blackbeard, one of the fiercest pirates ever known. Immerse yourself in the early 1700s in
Hampton with live entertainment, pirate encampment, children’s activities, sea battles, fireworks,
and more. Downtown Hampton. 7:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Friday; 10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. Saturday;
12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Sunday. Free Admission. 757/727-0900. www.blackbeardpiratefestival.com
(Downtown Hampton Waterfront, 23669)
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 10
31-June 1 Seventh Annual Sand Soccer Shootout & Benefit
This sand soccer tournament and benefit is a great draw for players and spectators, as well as
community members looking for a fun family-friendly activity. Participating non-profit
organizations charge a fee for the activity booth of their choosing (e.g. face painting, horse shoes,
bounce house, etc.). The more fun you have, the more money you raise for participating
organizations in need! Buckroe Beach. Free Admission. Cost to participate. 757/969-5716.
www.3dsandsoccer.info (100 First Street South, Hampton, VA 23663)
June 2014
14 Life’s a Beach Triathlon
Life’s A Beach encourages people to “catch the new wave of triathlon,” with its unique take on a
sport most people often associate with grueling training regimes and expensive, high-tech
equipment. The Life’s A Beach swim is 200 yards of “Almost Anything Goes,” with racers
allowed to use boogie boards, swim fins, mask and snorkels, water wings, and almost anything
else 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—beach cruisers and mountain bikes—as some courses may actually
involve stretches of beach riding. The two-mile beach run is laid back and includes some of the
Life’s A Beach challenges—obstacles to break up the run in a fun way. Awards will be given to
the Top Dudes and Dudettes, Top Slackers, Most Bodacious Bike Decorating, and Coolest
Costume. There will be an Awards Ceremony and Bodacious Beach Bash After-Party following
the event. Buckroe Beach. $50.00-$70.00 Registration Fee. 757/422-1956.
www.lifesabeachtriathlon.com (100 First Street South, Hampton, VA 23663)
27-29 AAU Boys Division III National Basketball Championships (10th and 11th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aauboysbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
27-29 47th Annual Hampton Jazz Festival
Celebrating 47 years of music, the Hampton Jazz Festival attracts the nation's top blues, soul,
pop, and jazz performers. Hampton Coliseum. Admission Fee. 757/838-4203.
www.hamptonjazzfestival.com (1000 Coliseum Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
27-29 24th Annual Afrikan American Festival
An outdoor, non-alcoholic, family-oriented event that features nonstop entertainment. A
marketplace with over 70 vendors displaying & selling art, crafts, and food. Mill Point Park.
$4.00. 757/727-8311. (100 Eaton Street, Hampton, VA 23669)
28 Aberdeen Gardens Heritage Day
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. 757/7222345. (55 and 57 N. Mary Peake Boulevard, Hampton, VA 23666)
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July 2014
2-5 AAU Boys Division III National Basketball Championships (4th and 5th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aauboysbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
5-8 Girls 11th Grade National Championship
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aaugirlsbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
9- 13 AAU Boys Division III National Basketball Championships (6th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aauboysbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
13- 16 AAU Boys Division III National Basketball Championships (7th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aauboysbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
16- 22 AAU Boys Division II National Basketball Championships (6th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aauboysbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
22-28 AAU Boys Division I National Basketball Championships (6th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aauboysbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
29- Aug. 3 AAU Boys Division III National Basketball Championships (8th and 9th Grade)
Boo Williams Sportsplex. Admission Fee. 757/637-7300. www.aauboysbasketball.org
(5 Armistead Pointe Parkway, Hampton, VA 23666)
31- Aug. 2 Virginia State Health Affairs Congress & Expo (Southeast)
This unique MedAlliesWorld® event, part of our grassroots commerce initiative and global
networking and sales campaign, features: a healthcare market tradeshow
(medical/surgical/medlab/dental) in its own exhibit hall; an aesthetics/beauty & spa expo in a
second unique exhibit hall; a natural products expo in a third separate exhibit hall; a vendors &
consumers expo held in separate exhibit zones. The tradeshows and vendors & consumers expo
are enhanced by clinical and commercial conferences, seminars, and workshops conducted by
world-renowned health and wellness, nutrition and medical experts. These educational
components are held in multiple conference halls. All events are conveniently located under one
roof! U.S. and international exhibitors, speakers, and visitors are invited to attend. Hampton
Roads Convention Center. 540/347-6660. www.medalliesworld.com (1610 Coliseum Drive,
Hampton, VA 23666)
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August 2014
2-3 89th Annual Hampton Cup Regatta
North America's oldest continuously-run hydroplane boat race! 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.org (Mill Creek, Entrance to Fort Monroe
in Hampton)
15-17 Fourth Annual African Landing Commemoration Day Festival
It was the latter part of August 1619 when the first ship bringing enslaved Africans came ashore
at Point Comfort in Hampton. These first Africans to arrive in English North America would lead
to the beginning of the institution of slavery in America. Come help us to remember the first
arrival, and our ancestors who lost their lives through the Middle Passage, and endured 246 years
of bondage. A commemoration of the first Africans who arrived in America on English occupied
territory at Point Comfort, today’s Fort Monroe in Hampton. Hampton History Museum. The
American Theatre and Fort Monroe. 757/380-1319. www.project1619.org
September 2014
5-7 32nd Annual Hampton Bay Days
Celebrating its 32nd year, this annual festival is a combination of free entertainment on multiple
stages, a Bay Education area that also has a children’s area and the exciting Tidewater Dock
Dogs, dozens of Arts and Crafts booths, 20+ food vendors, and one of the best fireworks displays
in the area. Downtown Hampton. 12:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. Friday; 10:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Saturday;
12:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Sunday. Free Admission. 757/727-1641. www.baydays.com (Downtown
Hampton, VA 23669)
13 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. Location TBD. 3:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Free Admission.
757/826-6351. www.coliseumcentral.com
October 2014
3 Ninth Annual Harvest Fest Gala
Presented by the Historical Foundation of Aberdeen Gardens, this event includes a silent auction,
fashion show, vendors and more. Langley Air Force Base. 6:00 p.m.– 11:00 p.m. $50.00.
757/722-2345. (Langley Air Force Base)
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3-5 Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon & 5K
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 Convention Center for a crawlin' fun time at the post-race party. All Half
Marathon runners will receive a unique medal, short sleeve technical shirt, access to the post-race
party and a surprise finisher's item. The Crawlin’ Crab 5K starts and finishes in front of the
Hampton Roads Convention Center. All 5k "crawlers" are invited to the post-race party with live
music, food and plenty of Coors Light (21+). This 5K is a run for the whole family! All
participants will receive a technical fabric race shirt, and all finishers will receive a unique
medal. Top three finishers for overall, masters, and each age group will get awards. Sign
everyone up for this one! Hampton Roads Convention Center. 2:00 p.m.- 7:00 p.m. Expo &
Packet Pickup Friday; 10:00 a.m.- 6:00 p.m. Expo & Packet Pickup Saturday; 6:30 a.m.- 8:00
a.m. Packet Pickup, 7:30 a.m. Kids 1K start, 8:00 a.m. Half Marathon start, 8:15 a.m. 5K start,
9:00 a.m.- 1:00 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 Five Alarm & Festival Chili Cook-Off
Enter your own famous chili recipe or bring your friends and sample some of the best tasting
chili in the area. With food vendors, fire safety demonstrations, children’s activities, and more.
Cooks can compete for prizes in a variety of categories. Carousel Park. 12:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Free Admission, fee for chili samples. 757/727-1212. (602 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA
23669)
20-22 NASCAR Drive for Diversity
This program brings out the best in the stock car racing stars of tomorrow and helps NASCAR
identify young men and women with the talent, desire, attitude and discipline to become stars of
tomorrow. During their time in Hampton, each driver will be put through a series of physical
fitness skills and cognitive tests. In addition, the drivers will spend time on IRacing, a motorsport
simulation game before multiple on-track sessions. Langley Speedway. 757/865-7223.
www.langley-speedway.com (11 Dale Lemonds Drive, Hampton, VA 23666)
7-9 NekoCon 17
The Hampton Roads Convention Center welcomes back over 3,000 otkau (fanboy’s and
fangirl’s) to NekoCon 17, 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)
22 16th Annual Coliseum Central Holiday Parade
Join us for the 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)
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 14
December 2014
5-6 19th Annual Holiday and Kwanzaa Marketplace
Beginning at 10:00 a.m., purchase your holiday and Kwanzaa gifts from the museum shop,
specializing in African, African-American, and other multicultural items. From 5:30 p.m. – 7:00
p.m., enjoy special holiday music, sales, and activities. Contact Vanessa Thaxton-Ward for more
information at 757/727-5508 or [email protected]. Hampton University
Museum. 10:00 a.m.– 7:00 p.m. Friday; 12:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. Saturday. Free Admission.
757/727-5508. museum.hamptonu.edu/ (Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668)
6 25th Annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat Parade
Cruise into the spirit of the holiday season at the 25th annual Downtown Hampton Lighted Boat
Parade. More than 20 boats are expected to participate. This highly anticipated 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. 7:15p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-1276.
www.downtownhampton.com (710 Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA 23669)
11-12 Santa’s Attic Craft Show
Santa’s Attic provides a wonderful opportunity for area crafters to showcase their talents while
affording the public an array of original, handmade items perfect for that one-of-a-kind holiday
gift. Hampton City Hall. 12:00 p.m.-5:00 p.m. Thursday, 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Friday. Free
Admission. 757/727-8311. www.hampton.gov/parks (22 Lincoln Street, Hampton, VA 23669)
13 Seventh Annual First Light Celebration
Make holiday memories with the Hampton History Museum. Create a family tradition by making
seasonal decorations and caroling! Marvel at the miniature landscape and railway created by area
train enthusiasts. Afterwards, follow us in singing “Joy to the World” as we head to the Holly
Days Parade at 7:00 p.m. Hampton History Museum. 5:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-1610.
www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
13 Hampton Holly Days 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. 7:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/7278311. www.hampton.gov/parks (Settlers Landing Road, Hampton, VA 23669)
ONGOING 2014 EVENTS & EXHIBITIONS
Sea to Stars Ticket
Purchase this ticket good for one-time admission to the Virginia Air & Space Center, IMAX
Theater, Miss Hampton II Harbor Cruise, Hampton History Museum and the Hampton Carousel
at the low price of $39 for adults, $25 children ages 4 -11. Available at the Hampton Visitor
Center and the Virginia Air & Space Center. Call 727-1102 or 727-0900 for details.
Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 15
(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,
$3.00. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA
23669)
Second Saturday of every month) Hampton History Museum Family Day
Family friendly activities and creative experiences relating to exhibitions and history themes each
month. Hampton History Museum. 11:00 a.m.-2:00 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. 12:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/7271610. 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. 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. Free Admission
for members, Non-members, $5.00. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old
Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
(Last Thursday of every month) Our Stories, Our Time Series
Each month featured speakers open up a new topic for attendees to share their personal stories
that are recorded for posterity. Hampton History Museum. 7:00 p.m. Free Admission for
members; Non-members, $3.00. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old
Hampton Lane, Hampton, VA 23669)
(Ongoing through January 30) Toward Freedom: Hampton and the Contraband
Exhibit
An original and powerful Hampton History Museum exhibition that tells the story of the
men, women, and children who escaped slavery to seek the possibility of freedom at Fort
Monroe as “Contraband of War.” This exhibit uses artifacts, documents, photos,
recreated settings, and audio-visual presentations, to explore critical questions
surrounding slavery and the individuals who changed the world by their actions just one
month into the American Civil War. Hampton History Museum. Included in Museum
admission. 757/727-1610. www.hamptonhistorymuseum.org (120 Old Hampton Lane,
Hampton, VA 23669)
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Hampton, Virginia Announces 2014 African American Events Calendar- Page 16
(Ongoing through May 10) The Dianne Whitfield-Locke & Carnell Locke Collection
The Hampton University Museum will be the venue for an exhibition of over fifty works of art
collected by two passionate collectors, Dr. Dianne Whitfield-Locke and her husband, Carnell
Locke. The exhibition will include paintings, prints, and drawings from their collection that
numbers well over 1100 works. The exhibition will also feature twenty pieces of sculpture from
the Locke collection. One of Dianne Whitfield Locke's passions, sculpture by African American
artists is also a highlight of the exhibition. Hampton University Museum. 757/727-5308.
museum.hamptonu.edu (Hampton University, Hampton, VA 23668)
June 15 - August 3 Groovin’ by the Bay (Sundays only)
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
(100 First Street South, Hampton, VA 23663)
June 17 - July 29 Family Movie Series (Tuesdays only)
Bring your friends, family, folding chairs, and blankets to Mill Point Park on Tuesday nights this
summer to enjoy free movies. Entertainment begins at 7pm, followed by our feature presentation
at sunset. Food and beverages are available for a purchase. For more information or inquiries
about weather cancellations, visit our website. Mill Point Park. 7:00 p.m. Free Admission.
757/727-8311. www.hampton.gov/parks (100 Eaton St, Hampton, VA 23669)
June 20-August 1 Storytelling in the Park (Fridays only)
Experience the art of storytelling through magic, music, puppetry and prose. Come early and
bring your picnic basket or stay after to greet the animals and enjoy the playground. For more
information or inquiries about weather cancellations, visit our website. Children 'rock' at Bluebird
Gap Farm! Rain Site: West Hampton Community Center 1636 Briarfield Road. Bluebird Gap
Farm. 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Free Admission. 757/727-8311. www.hampton.gov/parks (60 Pine
Chapel Road, Hampton, VA 23666)
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