Connecting you with our vibrant waterfront community. | | JUNE 2025 | Resident Newsletter | | THREE EASY WAYS TO STAY IN TUNE WITH THE CITY OF NORFOLK | | |
CITY CALENDAR: GRAB IT
Did you know... the City of Norfolk maintains a calendar of City happenings? You can link it (or just the activities that interest you) to your own calendar and stay in the loop!
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NORFOLKTV: THE APP
Download the NorfolkTV app from any smartphone app store and watch Norfolk-centric stories, City Council meetings and more.
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MYNORFOLK: EASY INFO
The MyNorfolk phone app is the simplest, most efficient way to find out important things the City is doing, make personalized requests or payments, get permits, see job openings and more.
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2025 NORFOLK HARBORFEST IS JUNE 6 - 8
America’s largest, longest-running free maritime festival, the iconic Norfolk Harborfest® returns for three memorable days along the Norfolk Waterfront Friday, June 6 through Sunday, June 8.
On both land and sea, thrilling activities and live music take center stage at Harborfest, including the annual Parade of Sail featuring international tall ships, one of the largest fireworks shows on the East Coast, a mesmerizing drone show, interactive family games and activities, Navy exhibits and demonstrations, artisan foods and beverages, national and regional live entertainment and much more.
Visit Norfolk.gov/harborfest for more information on road closures, parking and additional details. Get event-specific information by texting HARBORFEST to 888-777.
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MOVIES AT THE MUSEUM
To commemorate the anniversary of D-Day, the MacArthur Memorial will host a special screening of Saving Private Ryan on June 6 at 7 p.m.
The Museum will host Dr. Tim Orr, Associate Professor of History at Old Dominion University, who will present on the differences between real and "reel" history in a special presentation.
This event is free and open to the public. No registration is required to attend. Visit MacArthurMemorial.org for more info.
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BELIEVE IN LEARNING NORFOLK
Jordan-Newby Anchor Branch celebrates the start of NPL's Summer Reading Program with Believe in Learning Norfolk!
Saturday, June 7
11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Enjoy programs such as cookie decorating, a magic show, SRP sign up, Princess Tiana, live music, crafts, live animals, face painting, body art, Safari Dance Troupe, a puppet show, mocktails, Prime Plus Yoga, a STEAM Booth, spoken word poetry and more!
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JOIN THE 2025 SUMMER READING CHALLENGE
Get ready for a fantastic summer from June 7 to August 2, filled with free performances, delicious meals and exciting literacy activities! Whether you're signing up your child or participating yourself, log your reading minutes using Beanstack for a chance to win amazing prizes all summer long. (Enroll in Beanstack at norfolk.beanstack.org)
You can find all the details about our Summer Reading Program performances and events on norfolk.libcal.com. The more books you dive into, the better your chances of winning prizes.
If you’d like to learn more about the Summer Reading Challenge, just visit Norfolk.gov/SummerReading
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BARK IN THE PARK
June 10 at Harbor Park
Bring your pup to Bark in the Park on Tuesday, June 10, as the Norfolk Tides take on the Nashville Sounds! Dog tickets are just $5, with all proceeds benefiting Friends of Norfolk Animal Care Center to support local shelter animals. Plus, NACC’s Bethany Goodman will be throwing out the first pitch!
Don’t miss this annual pet-friendly night at the ballpark.
Click here for tickets and information.
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NORFOLK ANIMAL CARE
Waggin' Wheels: June 14
NACC's Waggin' Wheels Mobile Pet Pantry is bringing free pet food and supplies to Mary D. Pretlow Anchor Branch Library (111 W. Ocean View Ave.) for those who need a little support with their animal care.
Saturday, June 14
Noon to 2 p.m. or while supplies last.
For more information, visit Norfolk.gov/petpantry
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CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AT THIS SUMMER MIXER
Everyone is invited to the Neighbors Building Neighborhoods Annual Summer Mixer on Wednesday, June 18 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Mermaid Community Room at 835 Glenrock Road. Hosted by the Department of Neighborhood Services, this annual gathering is a celebration of culture and community.
This year's theme, "Mosaic Mermaid: Celebrating Norfolk's Multiculturalism," invites residents to enjoy an evening of networking and cultural celebration with international food, a cooking demonstration, African drums, music, stories and more. The $10 cost includes a sampling of international hors d’oeuvres and desserts.
Register today at norfolk.gov/nbnsummermixer
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NFK2050 DRAFT PLAN: THE CITY WANTS YOUR INPUT!
The City of Norfolk is in the final phase of NFK2050, Norfolk's Comprehensive Plan that will guide the city's growth over the next 25 years — and we want to hear from you!
All residents are invited to participate in an upcoming open house to get a first look at the Draft Plan and share your thoughts. These are drop-in style events, so stop by when it's convenient for you.
Open House Dates and Locations:
Tuesday, June 3, 5-7 p.m. at the Jordan-Newby Library, 1425 Norchester Ave.
Thursday, June 5, 5-7 p.m. at the Southside Boys and Girls Club, 701 Berkley Ave. Ext
Wednesday, June 11, 5-7 p.m. at the Pretlow Library, 111 W Ocean View Ave.
Wednesday, June 18, 5-7 p.m. at the YMCA on Granby, 2901 Granby St.
Can't make it in person? No problem — additional online and in-person opportunities to provide feedback will be available over the summer.
Visit Norfolk.gov/SpeakUp to learn more.
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WATER QUALITY REPORT
Norfolk's water has previously won awards—and this year we're on track for more of the same!
Norfolk’s 2025 Consumer Confidence Water Quality Report (issued by the Department of Utilities) shows that once again, our tap water has met all federal and state requirements. This is all thanks to the dedication of nearly 400 staff members who work tirelessly to ensure our customers have access to top-tier water.
Find the report online by visiting Norfolk.gov/wqr
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MCCOY FAMILY LEGACY: FIREFIGHTERS FOR LIFE
Three Generations Strong
For three generations, one family has answered the call to serve. With her grandfather and father now retired, Delaney McCoy proudly carries on their legacy with Norfolk Fire-Rescue—putting service before self, just as they did.
Together, they’re not only part of the NFR family, but a proud thread in the fabric of Team Norfolk. From all of us—thank you for your unwavering commitment and service.
Watch their story.
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NORFOLK SERVES AN ACE
New Courts at Booker T.
Norfolk Parks and Recreation served up an ace in early May at the grand opening of the new tennis courts at Booker T. Washington High School. The community rallied together to celebrate with tennis demonstrations and a first look at the school's newest facilities.
Watch the grand opening of the tennis courts.
Want to hit the courts yourself this summer? Visit Norfolk.gov/tennis to find a court near you!
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FIVE POINTS PARK SUMMER CONCERTS ARE BACK!
Norfolk Parks & Recreation is excited to announce their second collaboration with Norfolk Festevents, featuring seven events at Five Points Park in 2025. These events will be pedestrian-friendly and alcohol-free, with live music, food trucks and family activities.
This month enjoy some summer vibes with the "One Love Fest: A Bob Marley Celebration" on Friday, June 27.
Discover more summer fun by visiting Norfolk.gov/fivepointspark
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GROW, MOW AND MULCH
Healthy Lawns and Waterways
Virginia Cooperative Extension is eager to share some helpful tips for your summer lawn care.
Before cutting your grass, remember it is illegal to blow clippings into the right-of-way. Grass clippings create a slick surface that's dangerous to motorcyclists and bicyclists and can clog stormwater drains and contaminate streams and waterways.
DO:
- Mulch while mowing and leave your clippings on the lawn. It's free fertilizer and makes for a healthier lawn!
- Compost grass clippings to create organic soil.
- Bag your grass and place at the curb for trash pickup.
DON'T:
- Blow grass clippings into the street.
- Let grass clippings get into the storm drains.
- Place mulch or yard debris in the curbline/street.
Visit Norfolk.gov/yardwaste for more information and tips on how to be a part of the pollution solution.
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LIFEGUARDS IN NORFOLK THIS SUMMER
Norfolk's beach lifeguards are back on duty this summer. Beach lifeguards will be stationed at Community Beach Park (700 E. Ocean View Ave.) and Ocean View Beach Park (100 W. Ocean View Ave.) DAILY from noon to 6 p.m. starting on Saturday, May 24, through Monday, Sept. 1 (Labor Day).
Sarah Constant Beach Park (300 W. Ocean View Ave.) will not have beach lifeguards on duty. Patrons will swim at their own risk. Please dial 911 for emergencies.
For more information about Norfolk's beaches, water access, safety and more, visit Norfolk.gov/beaches
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Lifeguards and the City of Norfolk ask residents and visitors to keep the following safety rules top-of-mind when heading to the beach this summer:
- WATCH CHILDREN: Small children can drown in just a few inches of water, in less than 30 seconds. Keep a close eye on young children or untrained swimmers.
- NEVER SWIM ALONE: Swim near a lifeguard and always obey posted rules and warning signs. Stay away from piers, rocks, pipes, breakwaters, jetties and pilings.
- OBEY WARNING FLAGS: Red flags indicate high risk conditions or no swimming is allowed. If caught in a rip current, do not swim against it. Call out for help and swim parallel to the shore. Once the current releases you, swim to safety.
- ALCOHOL PROHIBITED: Open alcohol containers are prohibited on Norfolk beaches. Never drink alcohol before or during swimming activities.
- BE WEATHER AWARE: Never swim during electrical storms. Clear the beach immediately at the first sound or sight of thunder/lightning.
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SAFE SUMMER PARKING
Summer is upon us! As we get out and enjoy warmer weather at our beaches, parks and downtown attractions, it's important to keep safety in mind, especially when parking. Here are some parking safety tips and reminders:
- Park in well-lit areas, especially if you are coming or going during the evening hours.
- Secure your vehicle: Always close all windows and lock car doors, even if you're only going to be "a minute."
- Don't leave anything of value in your vehicle. If you can't bring it with you, lock your purse, wallet, jewelry, money or valuables in your glove compartment or trunk.
- Park only in designated spots and avoid restricted or reserved areas.
- Stay alert and aware of your surroundings. Report any suspicious activity or individuals to parking attendants, security personnel or notify police.
Find everything you need to know about parking in Norfolk at Norfolk.gov/parking.
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BE A BEACH HERO RE-OPENS
Keep Norfolk Beautiful Needs You
If you're spending time at the beach, parks or anywhere outdoors this summer, make a splash by picking up trash and be a Keep Norfolk Beautiful Beach Hero!
- Bring extra trash bags in your picnic or beach gear and place tied bags in nearby receptacles.
- Dispose trash in trash cans. Never leave loose items on the ground. All trash should be secured in a closed, tied bag. Cigarette butts leach chemicals that kill wildlife and other sea life who think they are food.
- If you are fishing at the beach, collect and dispose of any broken or used fishing line along with any gear. No one wants to step on a hook in their bare feet!
- Reduce, reuse and recycle the things you take to the beach. Pack food and beverages in reusable containers whenever possible.
Adopt a "leave-no-trace" mentality and pack out what you pack in. Place your waste in your home green bin and recyclables in your blue container.
Want to make an even bigger splash? Gather your friends, family, co-workers or teammates and organize a beach clean-up! Keep Norfolk Beautiful provides all the training and supplies.
Visit Norfolk.gov/knb or email knb@norfolk.gov to connect with a team member.
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