With spring approaching, chances are you’re probably champing at the bit to get outside and do something exciting. Fortunately, Norfolk gives you the opportunity to do just that. The city hosts numerous festivals in the spring months, complete with great food, drink, and live entertainment. If you’re looking for a fun-filled outdoor atmosphere, head to these Norfolk festivals this spring.
LanternAsia
Located on the grounds of the Norfolk Botanical Garden, LanternAsia is a festival unlike any other in the area. Throughout the park, there are over 30 giant works of Asian lantern art that become illuminated during the evening. It’s not easy to describe just how spectacular the scenery is, but it’s sure to please people of all ages. LanternAsia runs through the end of April from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 17 and under.
Virginia Beer Festival
For the avid beer enthusiast, the Virginia Beer Festival will feel like Christmas. Voted as one of the Best Beer Festivals in the country by USA Today, the Virginia Beer Festival features samples of stouts, ales, and lagers from over 125 local and national brewers. This year’s entertainment is courtesy of Buckshot, a local country-rock outfit from nearby Virginia Beach. General admission to the event is $15, but a $30 tasting ticket gets you some samples and a souvenir glass. Upgrade to premium admission for $75 to get food and private bathrooms. This event takes place in late May each year.
Bayou Boogaloo
Norfolk isn’t exactly known as a hotbed of Cajun influence, but the Bayou Boogaloo will make you feel like you’re right in New Orleans. Taking place in June, right on the cusp between spring and summer, the Bayou Boogaloo features authentic food from actual New Orleans-based chefs. Dishes include jambalaya, etoufee, and gumbo. Don’t miss the massive seafood boil, which contains over 8,000 pounds of fresh Louisiana crawfish. There’s live music throughout the weekend featuring zydeco, blues, and country music, as well as art on display and for sale from prominent New Orleans artists. Tickets to the event are between $15 and $30.
Puppy de Mayo
Do you find it difficult to leave your pooch at home, even if only for a few minutes? If this describes you, then your attendance at the Puppy de Mayo is essentially mandatory. Taking place on May 5, this free event invites dog lovers to enjoy a few adult beverages while sharing their love of everything canine. At the end of the event, the “Best Dressed Dog” receives an award, so don’t forget to put a costume on your mutt. In addition, the event offers free treats and snacks for all attendees (dogs, that is). Several vendors will also provide dog-friendly services throughout the event for only a small fee.
Instead of going stir crazy in your home wondering how you’re going to spend your weekend, remember that the festival season nears. Whether you want some exemplary food, a thirst-quenching beverage, or anything in between, you can’t go wrong with the festivals in Norfolk.
Image via Pixabay
Connect with us
