Top Picks
Friday, October 30 — Christopher Newport students, Newport News schoolkids, and local first responders walk together between CNU and Riverside Elementary. It's a small gesture, but a good window into how the university and the neighborhood around it actually connect.
Friday, October 30 — the city's regular Friday Night Nets gathering goes Halloween for the night. Low-key, local, and a good excuse to let kids run around in costume before the main event on the 31st.
Sunday, November 1 — William & Mary's cult-classic tradition returns with a live shadowcast acting out the film in front of the screen. Bring props, wear something weird, expect a crowd that knows every line.
Events This Week
Sunday, November 1 — the Virginia Institute of Marine Science brings its gear to Gloucester County's Touch-A-Truck, letting kids climb on and explore real work vehicles. A solid hands-on outing for families.
Saturday, November 7 — Newport News Parks and Rec's "Rooted Together" festival is built for gardeners and homeowners who want practical tips on landscaping that actually works with the local climate, not against it.
Friday, October 30 — a trunk-or-treat ahead of Halloween proper, good for families who want a calmer, earlier alternative to trick-or-treating at night.
Saturday, October 31 — a batch of newly trained local comedians takes the stage for their first real set. Graduation showcases like this tend to be scrappy and genuinely funny in equal measure.
Saturday, October 31 — an immersive, nightlife-leaning Halloween event for adults who want their costume night to have more production value than a house party.
Civic Watch
Thursday, November 5 — William & Mary hosts a post-election discussion aimed at making sense of the 2026 results and what they mean going forward. (Source: events.wm.edu)
Campus Corner
Thursday, October 29 — a seasonal pumpkin gathering on William & Mary's campus, LIFT-organized and open for the pre-Halloween crowd.
Thursday, October 29 — a campus awareness event at William & Mary focused on recognizing warning signs in relationships.
Friday, October 30 — W&M students present a semester's worth of conservation research. A good chance to hear what local students are actually studying in the field.
