Upcoming Events & Free Concerts You Don’t Want to Miss
Planning a summer getaway to Newport News? Get ready for a season packed with free concerts, community festivals, and incredible live performances! From waterfront fireworks to soulful jazz nights and toe-tapping tribute bands, Newport News is bursting with ways to experience the city’s culture, charm, and creativity.
Whether you're looking for family fun, a date-night vibe, or a spontaneous road trip destination, here's what’s happening around the city this summer:
Live Music in the Open Air
Port Warwick Summer Concert Series
Wednesdays, May 21 – August 27 | 6 – 9 PM
William Styron Square, Newport News, VA
Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy weekly free concerts in Port Warwick. Grab a bite from local restaurants or food trucks and enjoy genres from Motown to modern pop.
Concert Highlights Include:
- May 21: Brasswind (Motown & Classic Horn)
- May 28: Roberta Lea (Country/Pop)
- July 2: Anthony Rosano & the Conqueroos (Blues Rock)
- July 16: Midnight Rain (Taylor Swift Tribute)
- August 27: Wonderland (High-Energy Variety)
Tech Center Summer Concert Series
Select Thursdays, May 22 – October 2 | 6 PM
Tech Center Drillfield, 880 Tech Center Parkway
New in 2025! Tech Center’s concert series features eight outdoor shows. Food and beer trucks open at 5 PM. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the summer vibes.
Upcoming Shows:
- May 22: Magnolia Boulevard
- June 5: Driftwood
- July 3: Pressing Strings
- August 14: Yam Yam
- October 2: Kevin Bert and Big Medicine
Live Performances at the Ferguson Center for the Arts
Enjoy Broadway, jazz, ballet, comedy, and more at the Ferguson Center for the Arts. Here’s a snapshot of what’s on stage:
- April 27: DOT DOT DOT | 3 PM
- May 3: The Music of Star Wars (VSO) | 7:30 PM
- May 3: Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Celebration | 8 PM
- May 4: Soundscapes of Soundscapes | 3 PM (Free)
- May 8: Vocal Jazz Summit | 8 PM
- May 9: Mahler Symphony No. 9 | 7:30 PM
- May 10–11: Virginia Community Music Festival
- May 18: Pete the Cat | 3 PM & Soundscapes Spring Concert | 4 PM
- September 28: World Ballet Company: Cinderella | 6 PM
- October 22: Floyd Nation: Wish You Were There Tour | 7:30 PM
- October 28: An Evening with David Sedaris | 7:30 PM
Festivals and Citywide Events
Mark your calendar with these exciting city-sponsored festivals:
Children’s Festival of Friends
May 3 | 10 AM – 5 PM
Newport News Park
Games, crafts, live entertainment, and all-day fun!
Juneteenth Celebrations
- June 16 | 10 AM – Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall
- June 21 | 12 – 5 PM – Juneteenth Freedom Festival at Victory Landing Park
(Live music, food, exhibits, kids’ zone)
Stars in the Sky – Independence Day Celebration
July 4 | 6 – 9:15 PM
Victory Landing Park
Fireworks, food trucks, family fun, and live music on the waterfront.
Made in Newport News
August 16 | 4 – 8 PM
City Center at Oyster Point
Celebrate community pride with local vendors, music, and fun.
Southeast Community Day Parade
September 6 | 10 AM – 1 PM
Join the 34th annual parade filled with neighborhood pride.
Denbigh Day Parade and Festival
September 20 | 10 AM – 4 PM
Courthouse Way Community Center
A full day of live music, games, crafts, food, and a festive parade.
Fall-O-Ween Festival
October 4–5 | 10 AM – 5 PM
Newport News Park
Celebrate fall with family-friendly, seasonal fun and activities.
Extend the Fun After Sunset
Looking for something to do after the sun goes down?
Explore lounges, wine bars, taprooms, and evening entertainment on our Nightlife Page. Whether you’re into live music or relaxing patios, Newport News shines after dark.