NORFOLK, Va. — The 49th Annual Norfolk Harborfest returns to Town Point Park and the Downtown Norfolk Waterfront Friday, bringing a full weekend of free, family-friendly festivities along the Elizabeth River. From the majestic Parade of Sail to national music headliners, fireworks and hands-on exhibits, Harborfest remains one of the signature summer events in Hampton Roads.
When is the Harborfest Parade of Sail and Tall Ship Tours?
The festival kicks off Friday at noon with the iconic Parade of Sail, one of the largest ship parades on the East Coast. An impressive fleet of tall ships, Navy vessels, schooners, and character boats will cruise down the Elizabeth River in a choreographed procession, including the Kalmar Nyckel, Schooner Virginia, NOAA Ship Thomas Jefferson and USS Wisconsin.
Spectators can view the parade from Town Point Park or nearby vantage points. Afterward, several ships will be open for free public tours from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, and from noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Visitors are encouraged to wear flat shoes and avoid strollers, as boarding some vessels may involve steep ramps and narrow passageways.
Nighttime Spectacles on the Waterfront
Harborfest will host two signature evening events: a high-tech drone show Friday at 9:30 p.m., followed by a massive fireworks display Saturday night at the same time. The drone show will feature synchronized drones creating patterns and symbols above the river, while Saturday’s fireworks are expected to be one of the largest waterfront shows in the region.
New Attractions and Local Flavor
Among this year’s additions are Terrapin Station, a laid-back lounge with Grateful Dead-inspired vibes and craft cocktails and Locals Only Garden, serving Virginia-made wine, beer and spirits, including orange crushes from Beach Vodka. For a hands-on waterfront twist, Splash City Golf lets visitors hit biodegradable golf balls into floating targets on the river.
Family Fun at Treasure Island
Families can explore Treasure Island, a dedicated kids’ zone with a wide range of activities and live shows. Featured acts include Pirate School, The Yo-Yo Show, Her Majesty’s Secret Circus, and touch tank experiences with the Elizabeth River Project. Art stations, science exhibits, and educational crafts will be available throughout the weekend. The crowd-favorite Build-A-Boat contest returns Saturday, with a race of handmade boats set for Sunday at 2:30 p.m. in Freemason Harbor.
Maritime Demonstrations and Water Activities
In addition to ship tours, visitors can enjoy live maritime demonstrations such as Coast Guard search-and-rescue exercises, tugboat musters, and emergency response showcases. The waterfront will also feature radio-controlled boat races and historic boat-building displays from local organizations, including Nauticus and the Tidewater Wooden Boat Workshop.
Food, Drinks, and Shopping
Dozens of vendors will serve a wide range of foods from seafood and BBQ to tacos, skewers, and sweet treats. Beverage stations and themed lounges throughout the park will offer domestic beers, Virginia wines and specialty cocktails. The Harborfest Marketplace features regional artisans selling nautical gifts, handmade jewelry and official 2025 Harborfest gear. This year’s commemorative poster is designed by Norfolk watercolorist Terry Wylie…