Coliseum Central’s Whimsical Winter Wonderland returns to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) on November 18 from 12-5PM. This FREE, festive celebration includes fun for the whole family. Aerialists, jugglers, and illusionists will entertain guests on the main stage and holiday-themed decor will provide ample opportunities for photos. In addition, there will be roaming characters and stilt walkers, a variety of photo booths, face painting, balloon and glitter tattoo artists, and carnival-style games.

We are excited to announce that this year the Whimsical Winter Wonderland will expand to include activities outside the Hampton Coliseum! New for this year:

New indoor activities include enhanced games, Princess Meet & Greets, inflatable amusement fun park for the little ones, and axe throwing with foam velcro axes.

Celebrate the season and promote your organization by serving as a Whimsical Winter Wonderland sponsor. Click here to learn about sponsorship opportunities.

Disney on Ice: Magic in the Stars comes to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) October 19-22. Take a magical journey through the timeless stories of Cinderella, Aladdin, Toy Story, and Cars, and today’s favorites including Encanto, Frozen 2 and Moana. Celebrate with Tiana, Rapunzel and the Disney Princesses and meet Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon. Click here for more information, or to purchase tickets.

The Jazz Legacy Foundation’s 11th Annual Gala Weekend returns to the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) November 9-12 with a star-studded lineup, including Boney James, Jeffrey Osborne, and Sheila E. The Jazz Legacy Foundation’s mission is to preserve the Art of Jazz through music education. Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

The Bodacious Bazaar Fall Show comes to the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) November 10-12. This three-day shopping extravaganza features hundreds of vendors, artists, crafters, and several of Virginia’s finest wineries. Click here for more information.

If you missed Retail Alliance’s Virginia Retail Matters live, you can watch it on WTKR News 3’s website. This video includes a presentation of an in-depth retail study conducted by Main Street America and the 2024 Outlook on Virginia legislation that impacts the retail sector. Watch the replay here. To purchase a digital copy of the full research report, click here.

Guest speakers include Matt Wagner, Chief Program Officer at Main Street America, expert lobbyists from Virginia Retail Federation, and leadership from Retail Alliance. For more information or to register, click here.

Usher in the Fall season at the Bluebird Gap Farm Fall Festival (60 Pine Chapel Road) October 21-22. The festival runs from 10AM-5PM each day with a variety of children’s activities, hayrides, master gardening, punkin’ chunkin’, live entertainments, and much more!

Admission and activities are free. Food and pumpkins are available for purchase.

Virginia Peninsula Foodbank needs your help to keep their shelves full so that they can continue to provide healthy meals to those in need. It is estimated that one in 7 individuals, or more than 50,000 people in our area are affected by food insecurity. That number continues to increase with rising food and fuel costs.

There are many ways to help:

To learn more about how you can help, click here.

October 24
8AM-2PM
City Hall
22 Lincoln St.

Coliseum Central wants to hear from you- our business owners and managers. We understand that running a business can be challenging, and we are here to help. Coliseum Central staff would like to meet one-on-one with retailers to discuss your concerns and ideas. The feedback you provide can help us focus our resources in areas that better serve our businesses.

We’re committed to the success of our businesses and look forward to working with you. If you are a Coliseum Central retailer and would like to schedule a meeting, click here.

Coliseum Central is offering District businesses an opportunity to be part of our seasonal billboard campaigns. Campaigns will have a theme and highlight a specific segment of businesses. For example, our summer campaign, “Play around in Hampton this Summer,” highlighted sports and entertainment businesses using fun taglines.

There is no cost to participate. Adams Outdoor Advertising will create the ad and businesses will have final approval before it runs. Billboard campaigns will run for up to two weeks at three locations- two on I-64 at Rip Rap Road in Hampton (east- and westbound) and one on High Street in Portsmouth, reaching motorists heading to I-664.

Our winter campaign, which runs November 1-December 24, will highlight holiday shopping and dining. If you are a Coliseum Central Business and would like to participate, please click here and:

Deadline to submit materials is October 20. If you have any questions, please contact Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com.

Mark your calendar! Coliseum Central’s Whimsical Winter Wonderland returns to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) on November 18 from 12-5PM. This FREE, family-friendly event will usher in the holiday season with aerialists, roaming characters stilt walkers, inflatables, a variety of photo booths, face painting, balloon and glitter tattoo artists, and carnival-style games. This year’s event will expand to include the outdoor portion of the Hampton Coliseum and will include 14 new activities. Stay tuned for more details!

Celebrate the season and promote your organization by serving as a Whimsical Winterland sponsor. If your organization is interested in a sponsorship opportunity, please contact Eboni Council at ecouncil@coliseumcentral.com.

Coliseum Central is revamping coliseumcentral.com. In addition to a fresh, new look, the updated website will also have new features and functions including a trip planner, enhanced home page and business pages, and a virtual tour. Website design is expected to be completed this Fall.

Make sure that your District business is properly represented on our new website. Click here to view your current business page. To submit or update your businesses information, click here. To submit photos (up to 5) and logo, email Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com.

The BayPort Foundation Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon & 5K takes place October 7-8. Saturday events include the 5K and the Kids 1K, while Half Marathon runners take to the streets of Hampton on Sunday. All races will end in front of the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive), where participants and their guests can enjoy live music, food, and refreshments at the Post-Race Party. For more information or to register, click here.

The Hampton Brick Convention is coming to the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) on October 14-15. This ultimate Lego event gives fans the opportunity to view incredible displays, play with thousands of bricks in multiple building zones, and purchase new and retired Lego sets. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

Virginia Retail Matters presented by Retail Alliance takes place on September 22 from 11:15AM-2:00PM at the Renaissance Hotel (425 Water St., Portsmouth). This luncheon will include the presentation of an in-depth retail study conducted by Main Street America and the 2024 Outlook on Virginia legislation that impacts the retail sector.

Guest speakers include Matt Wagner, Chief Program Officer at Main Street America, expert lobbyists from Virginia Retail Federation, and leadership from Retail Alliance. For more information or to register, click here.

Coliseum Central is compiling a list of low-cost marketing opportunities and networking opportunities for small business owners. We will continue to update this list as new information is obtained. To view the current list of opportunities, click here. If you have events or opportunities you would like to share, contact Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com.

Onelife Fitness (2190 Coliseum Drive) will be opening this winter in the former Farm Fresh location in Coliseum Marketplace Shopping Center. Stop by the Preview Center on location to learn more about the programs and amenities and join now to get Founding Member rates. Amenities available in this 60,000 sq. ft. facility will include:

Click here for more information, to take a virtual tour of the facility or to join online.

September 18
11AM-3PM
Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home
2551 N. Armistead Ave.

October 1
9:30AM-2:30PM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
2150 Cunningham Dr.

Hot Pot 757
Coliseum Crossing
32 Coliseum Crossing

Cava
Peninsula Town Center
2033 Coliseum Drive

Hampton broke ground Friday, August 18 on the Lake Hampton Resilience Park. This is the first of three innovative resiliency projects designed primarily to reduce the impact of flooding on the area around Newmarket Creek. Lake Hampton Resilience Park will reduce flooding and pollution by retaining more water and filtering runoff. It will also become a thriving habitat for birds and other wildlife and create a shared use path that will connect to the existing Waterwalk Trail park. Click here for more information.

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Hampton (1700 Coliseum Drive) recently completed a multimillion-dollar makeover, which included the renovation of all 295 suites and painting the open-air atrium lobby and corridors. The suites, including two presidential suites, are decorated in neutral colors of gray and white and include new, modern furniture and fixtures. For more information, click here.

The “Who Is Boo?”: The Legend Behind the Name Documentary will premiere at the American Theater (125 East Mellen St.) on September 9 at 7:30PM. Attendees will be treated to a first look at this film that explores the life of Hampton Roads basketball legend, Marcellus “Boo” Williams. The documentary includes interviews with Boo Williams Summer League alumni and college and professional coaches, including Dawn Staley, Sonny Vaccaro, and Howard White.

In addition to the unique viewing opportunity, the event includes a cocktail hour mixer, silent auction, networking, Q&A with Boo Williams, and an after party at Noir Simply A Panache Lounge.

Tickets are on sale now and prices start at $45. To purchase tickets, click here. For more information about the documentary click here.

The City of Hampton has events planned throughout the year to celebrate its All-America City award. The community is invited to join in the celebration events for this community award.

The next event takes place Sunday August 27 at Mill Point Park (100 Eaton St.) The final concert of the Groovin’ by the Bay series will have an All-America theme featuring carnival games, prizes and treats. Following the concert performance by Soul Intent, attendees will be treated to an All-America fireworks show over the Hampton River. Visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/all-america for more information about this and other planned events.

Monster Jam returns to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) September 22-24. Fan favorites Grave Digger, Max-D and Megalodon will provide excitement with massive stunts and head-to-head battles for the Event Championship. Upgrade your experience with passes to the Pit Party where you can see the trucks up close, meet your favorite drivers, and take pictures.

Click here for more information or to purchase tickets.

Sample some of the best wines produced in Virginia at the Hampton Wine & Spirit Expo September 16-17 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive.) Wineries from all over the state will bring their unique wines for tasting and for purchase. From beginner to expert, there is something for everyone! For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

Bryant & Stratton College Hampton Campus will host a Rapid Registration Open House event on August 19th from 10AM-1PM. This event kicks off enrollment for the Fall Semester, which starts September 6. Attendees will have an opportunity to speak with instructors, admissions, and financial aid staff, tour the campus and learn about the degree programs that are available.

For more information about this event, visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/fall23. For more information about Bryant & Stratton College Hampton Campus, click here.

It’s that time of year! Whether they’re going Back-to-School or Back-to-College, Coliseum Central is your one-stop for all your shopping needs! Find everything you need to make this school year a success in our Back to School Guide. Click here.

Hampton Economic Development Department is hosting a series of events this summer to support small business owners. The series will cover a range of topics and will provide valuable insights, practical tips and networking opportunities. August events include:

Click here for information on upcoming events and to register.

August 18
12:45-4:30PM
YMCA Health & Wellness Center
4001 Coliseum Drive

Panera
Coliseum Crossing
2155 Coliseum Drive
757-825-2670

McAlister’s Deli
Peninsula Town Center
2862 Kilgore Ave.
757-347-3013

Foot Locker
Coliseum Crossing
17 Coliseum Crossing

Spirit Halloween
Peninsula Town Center
3440 Von Schilling Drive

Coliseum Central would like to thank everyone who participated in our 20th Annual Neighborhood Night Out Health & Safety Fair August 1 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. Over 40 first responders, community partners, and District businesses were in attendance, providing information, entertainment and community engagement. Dignitaries including Governor Glenn Youngkin, Mayor Donnie Tuck, Police Chief Jimmie Wideman and City Council Members Steven Brown and Chris Bowman were in attendance.

If you are a District business or community partner interested in participating in next year’s event on August 6, 2024, please contact Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com to be added to the mailing list.

Coliseum Central’s Annual Neighborhood Night Out Health & Safety Fair takes place at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) on Tuesday, August 1st, from 4-7PM. This free, family event takes place in conjunction with National Night Out to promote safety, wellness, crime prevention neighborhood unity, and, of course, fun.

This is an excellent opportunity to show community support and promote your business. If your organization is located in Coliseum Central, you are encouraged to participate. Registration is free and all participation forms must be received by July 12. To register, scan the QR code or click here.

Local Police, Fire and Sheriff’s departments will be on-hand to demonstrate safety vehicles and equipment. Kid-friendly activities include inflatables, face-painting, balloon animals, games, music, and more!

Neighborhood Night Out is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive from 3-7PM. Help us reach our goal of 20 donors by registering today. Schedule your donation appointment here.

Summer’s here and that means finding ways to keep the kids busy while school’s out. Here are few things happening in Coliseum Central this summer:

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

The National Civic League named Hampton an All-America City during an awards ceremony in Denver last month. The award is presented to communities that involve and engage their residents.

This year’s theme was “Creating Thriving Communities Through Youth Engagement.” Hampton submitted three programs for consideration:

This is the fourth time Hampton has been named All-America City.

Whether you’re planning a staycation or just looking for a way to beat the heat, there’s lots of summer fun in Coliseum Central! We’ve got movies, trampolines, a climbing gym, escape rooms, waterpark, farm animals, and more! Click here to find out all there is to see and do.

Hampton Economic Development Department is hosting a series of events this summer to support small business owners. The series will cover a range of topics and will provide valuable insights, practical tips and networking opportunities. July events include:

Click here for information on upcoming events and to register.

July 16
9:30AM-2:30PM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
2150 Cunningham Drive

July 25
11AM-3PM
Bryant & Stratton College
5030 Kilgore Avenue

August 1
3-7PM
Hampton Roads Convention Center
1610 Coliseum Drive

Beauty Outlet
Peninsula Town Center
3460 Von Schilling Drive
757-825-2650

Latitude Climbing + Fitness
Peninsula Town Center
2021 Executive Drive
757-347-1441

Wisephone ER
Coliseum Square
2040 Coliseum Drive, Ste. 18
757-726-7652

McAlister’s Deli
Peninsula Town Center
2862 Kilgore Avenue

Join Power Plant Hampton Roads for an exclusive Christmas in July party on July 20 at 4PM! Enjoy complimentary heavy hor d’eourves and a drink ticket when you RSVP by 12pm July 18. Experience PBR Hampton like never before!

Now Booking Holiday Parties: Save up to $2,500 on Venue Rental Fees when you book your next event before August 31, 2023. Email JWestnedge@watersidedistrict.com to RSVP or book your tour today!

Coliseum Central’s annual Neighborhood Night Out Health & Safety Fair will take place at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) on August 1st from 4-7PM. This free, family event takes place in conjunction with National Night Out to promote safety, wellness, crime prevention neighborhood unity, and, of course fun!

Local Police, Fire and Sheriff’s departments will be on-hand to demonstrate safety vehicles and equipment. Kid-friendly activities include face-painting, balloon animals, games, music, and more!

In addition, Neighborhood Night Out is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a blood drive from 3-7PM. Help us reach our goal of 20 donors by registering today. Schedule your donation appointment here.

If your organization is located in Coliseum Central, you are encouraged to participate. Registration is free and all participation forms must be received by July 12. To register click here.

Two FREE Customer Service Training Sessions will be held on June 21st at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex (1908 Coliseum Drive). Join Allison Moore, corporate comedian, human resources expert, and communications executive as she discusses:

Register here for Session 1 – 9:30-11:30AM

Register here for Session 2 – 1:30-3:30PM

For questions or registration issues contact Rita Bond at 757-826-3327. This event is sponsored by Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau, Newport News Hospitality Association, Newport News Tourism and Hampton Roads Workforce Council.

Congratulations to the Class of 2023! It’s going to be a busy graduation season for the Hampton Coliseum. High school students from Hampton to Williamsburg will walk across the Coliseum stage to receive their diplomas this month.

Tickets are still available for the 53rd Annual Hampton Jazz Festival presented by Coliseum Central at the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) from June 23-25.

Artists scheduled to appear include Stephanie Mills, Charlie Wilson, The Chuck Brown Band, Babyface, Kenny G and Fantasia.

Tickets may be purchased at Ticketmaster.com or at the Hampton Coliseum Box Office. For more information, click here.

Keep the festival atmosphere going at The 757 Experience & Marketplace at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive). The retail and after party experience includes local artisans and musicians as well as a Gospel Brunch and Wine Down Jam Session on Sunday.

Click here for more information, or to purchase tickets.

The Splashdown Park at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex officially opened for the season on May 27. The 26,000 sq. ft. water park features two waterslides, a lazy river, a play pool with a zero-depth entry, a play structure, and in-water basketball hoops, as well as tables, chairs, and poolside food and beverage service.

The park is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, Monday-Saturday 11AM-7PM and Sunday 12PM-6PM. Season memberships are available for youth, adults, and families, with resident and non-resident rates. Individual day passes are also available. For more information or to purchase passes, click here.

Renovations are currently underway at Bluebird Gap Farm which will enhance the visitor experience. Contractors will be renovating the silo near the goat and donkey habitats, creating a photo op spot for visitors. In addition, a new pathway between the goat and donkey habitats is under construction. Once open, the pathway will provide guests more access to the animals.

Finding the perfect gift for Father’s Day or graduation can be hard. Coliseum Central’s got you covered! With 14 shopping centers and hundreds of retailers, you’re sure to find just what you’re looking for. Check out our gift guide here.

June 16
12:45-4:30PM
YMCA Health & Wellness Center
4001 Coliseum Drive

June 30
10AM-3PM
Bass Pro Shop
1972 Power Plant Pkwy

July 5
1-5PM
Embassy Suites
1700 Coliseum Drive

Coliseum Central staff will be out in the District once a week, meeting one-on-one with our business owners and managers. We want to understand the issues and concerns of our businesses and provide resources to assist them. If you would like to schedule a visit, please email Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com or call 757-826-6351.

Coliseum Central and the Hampton Police Division’s Business Improvement District (BID) Unit will be hosting security meetings for District businesses in the retail and hospitality sectors. At these meetings BID officers will discuss their current initiatives and provide an opportunity for businesses to address issues and concerns.

The meeting for businesses in the Hospitality and Tourism industry will take place on June 8th at 2PM. The Retail security meeting is scheduled for July 15 at 2PM. Both meetings will be in the Coliseum Central office.

Please note, these meetings are in addition to our monthly Security Committee Meetings. If you are interested in attending one of these meetings or joining our Security Committee, please contact Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com or call 757-826-6351.

Businesses located in the Coliseum Central Business Improvement District (BID) have access to programs (many of them free!) that can assist with marketing, security, and physical improvements. As a BID member you can claim your business page on our website, promote your events in our newsletter, and participate in BID events. To learn about all the programs available to BID members, scan the QR code or click here.

Mark your calendar for these networking opportunities taking place this month:

The 2023 Business Roundtable Series kicks off this month with an updated format. Meetings will be held quarterly in the BID office (2101 Executive Drive, Suite 550) as well as virtually via Gotomeeting. Networking opportunities will be available 30 minutes before and after the meeting for those attending in person.

Join us Tuesday, May 9 at 9AM for a presentation on Programs to Benefit Small Businesses. A panel of speakers will discuss various programs and resources for small business owners including:

Click here to RSVP. Please indicate whether you will attend in person or virtually.

We have added a jobs board to our website, coliseumcentral.com. District businesses can post job openings at no charge. Posted jobs are searchable by the general public.

To post a job, click here. Once submitted, job listings will be published upon staff review (typically within three business days.)

The Master Gardener’s Spring Plant Sale will take place in the Arboretum at Bluebird Gap Farm (60 Pine Chapel Rd.) on Saturday, May 6 from 9AM-12PM. Annuals, perennials, shrubs, trees, and seasonal vegetables will be available for purchase and Master Gardeners will be available for free plant advice. Bring your own wagon, cart or wheelbarrow for easier shopping. Cash, check or credit cards accepted. Admission is free.

The Bodacious Bazaar Spring event takes place at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) June 2-4. The three-day extravaganza features over 250 vendors, artists, crafters and several of Virginia’s finest wineries. The American Red Cross will hold a blood drive Friday, June 2 from 9:30AM-1:30PM. Schedule your donation appointment at redcrossblood.org. For more information about the Bodacious Bazaar, click here.

Sparetimes (1 Family Fun Pl.) will host the team event in the VA State Open Bowling Championships. Each weekend from May 13 through June 11th, teams from all over the state will travel to the area to compete. The singles and doubles event will be held at AMF York in Yorktown. For more information, click here.

Coliseum Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (305 Marcella Rd.) was one of three Virginia Health Services’ centers recognized on Newsweek’s Best Nursing Homes 2023 list. Nursing homes in the 25 states with the highest number of facilities are evaluated according to key performance data, peer recommendations, accreditation, and the response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

VHS CEO and President Mark Klyczek says “This honor reflects the dedication of our team members to our mission, which is to support individuals to live their best life. We are proud the hard work of our team is being recognized on a national level.”

Mother’s Day is May 14th! Find everything you need to make Mom’s day special in Coliseum Central. Need suggestions for the perfect brunch spot, where to shop for the perfect gift, or fun things to do? You’ll find it all in our Mother’s Day Guide.

We can all do our part to make the District a safe, clean place to work, live, and play. If you see something that needs attention, call the appropriate number to get the issue resolved.

If the issue is concerns streets or property, call the city’s 3-1-1 Citizen Contact Center. Dial 3-1-1 from a landline inside the city or 757-727-8311 from your cell. Citizen Services advocates are available every day from 7AM-11PM.

To report panhandling, trespassing, or similar issues, use the Hampton Police Division non-emergency number- 757-727-6111. And of course, in the case of an emergency, dial 911.

May 5
10AM-2PM
Sentara CarePlex Hospital
3000 Coliseum Dr.

May 25
Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home
11AM-3PM
2551 N. Armistead Ave.

June 2
9:30AM-1:30PM
Hampton Roads Convention Center
1610 Coliseum Drive

Peninsula Town Center
Canvas Social Cuisine
3110 ALLAINBY WAY
(757) 826-0430

Coliseum Square
Peach Rose Waxing
2040 COLISEUM DR., STE. A31
(757) 726-7751

Crown Jewelers
Crown Jewelers (2510 McMenamin St.) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on March 28, with Mayor Donnie Tuck on hand to welcome them to the District. Crown Jewelers has a wide selection of gold and sterling silver jewelry as well as watches, and more. Stop by today to find the perfect gift for yourself or someone special. Click here for more information.

U Rock Art
Councilwoman Hope Harper was on hand April 1 as U Rock Art (70 Coliseum Crossing) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony. U Rock Art has an expansive collection of rocks, minerals and fossils for all ages. Their ultra-violet lighted mineral hallway allows visitors to see how certain minerals change colors or glow under UV light. For more information, click here.

The 2023 Coliseum Central Annual Meeting was held at the Hampton Roads Convention Center on February 28. Business owners, City Council members, city staff and other members of the District came together to network, learn, and look to the year ahead. Coliseum Central would like to thank the Academies of Hampton students Jahmir Callahan, Aiden Davis, and Charles Moore for assisting with registration; Mayor Donnie Tuck for his opening remarks; Karla Reeves, Director of Hampton Victim Witness Unit, for singing the National Anthem; Dr. Brian Williams, Pastor of Ivy Memorial Baptist Church for leading the invocation; and Dr. Robert McNab, Chair of the Department of Economics at Old Dominion University for delivering an engaging keynote address. Lastly, Coliseum Central would like to extend its sincerest thanks to all who attended for their continued support of Coliseum Central Business Improvement District’s efforts.

The Hampton Roads Workforce Council is hosting a job fair at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) on April 13 from 10AM-3PM. Job seekers throughout the Hampton Roads region are invited to attend. Bring copies of your resume and meet over 100 potential employers who are ready to hire.

The Regional Job Fair is open to all employers. Registration is required and the deadline to register is April 10. If your business is hiring, click here to reserve your spot.

The Boo Williams Girls NIKE Invitational Basketball Tournament will take place April 21-23. Over 200 elite teams from across the country and several teams from Canada will be competing at Boo Williams Sportsplex (5 Armistead Pointe Pkwy.) and the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) during this three-day event.

Coliseum Central will join the Hampton Clean City Commission to Walk Hampton Clean on April 27. This will be our first event since 2019. We are looking for individuals or teams to assist in this year’s clean up. Volunteers will meet at Central Security Services, 2101 Executive Drive, Suite 375, at 3:00PM and finish by 5:00PM. Coliseum Central will provide the litter pick-up tools, vests, gloves, and trash bags. To sign up, please click here or email Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Located on the Calendar page of coliseumcentral.com, choose “Submit an Event” and complete the form with the details of your event; an event photo may also be added. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

The City of Hampton Economic Development Department has made it easier to access information and events for new and existing small businesses. Scan the QR code to access the SWaM events calendar, register for upcoming events, and subscribe to the small business newsletter. The information can also be found by visiting https://events.coliseumcentral.com/SWaM.

Spring is here! From apparel to home décor and more, you’ll find everything you need for spring at Coliseum Central. Click here for our Spring Shopping Guide.

Hampton Roads Educators’ Credit Union (2130 Cunningham Dr.) will hold its annual Shred Day event on April 7 from 10AM-1PM. The public is invited to bring up to three banker sized boxes or bags of confidential documents for shredding. The credit union will be accepting non-perishable food items or monetary donations for the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank. Click here for more information.

Retail Alliance is launching a new education series for business owners. Each Retailpreneur Series will be a virtual three-part workshop. In the first series, Retail Alliance member Kisha Moore, owner of Hummingbird Macarons & Desserts, will speak on leadership. Are you a great leader and do you realize that your success as a retailer starts with leading a dynamic team? Join Kisha for a real retail world leadership talk that will give you implementable strategies for:

Workshops will be held via Zoom from 8:30AM-9:45AM on April 4th, May 2nd, and June 6th. The price for the series is $30 for members and $60 for non-members. Click here for more information.

In honor of Earth Day, Hampton Roads Transit will host a Bus Stop community Clean-Up event on April 21. Get your team together, pick your time, and register to help clean up the stops in Coliseum Central. Trash bags and gloves will be provided. Click here to register.

April 16
9:30AM-2:30PM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
2150 Cunningham Dr.

For more information click here.

Legendz Of The Streets
Presented By Tetrarch
April 15

Joyce Meyer Ministries
April 21-22

Mother’s Day Celebration
May 14

WWE Sunday Stunner
May 21

Hampton Jazz Festival
June 23-25

Ganja White Night
Presents Wobble Coliseum 2
July 7-8

Hampton Restaurant Week returns March 5-19, with area restaurants offering specials including $10 and $15 lunches and $25 and $35 dinners. This year’s theme “Sip, Savor & Stroll” invites guest to explore the paths, waterways and historic districts in a location with a wide variety of culinary choices. For more information, click here.

Participating restaurants include:

The Hampton Jazz Festival is returning to the Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Drive, after a three-year break. The 53rd Annual Hampton Jazz Festival will take place June 23-25 with a star-studded lineup. Artists scheduled to appear include Stephanie Mills, Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, Babyface, and Kenny G. Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com and the Hampton Coliseum Box Office. For more information, click here.

Boo Williams Sportsplex will be hosting events every weekend in March. Mark your calendar for these upcoming events:

For more information, click here.

Some of the biggest names in comedy will be coming to the Hampton Coliseum, 1000 Coliseum Drive, on March 25. The Straight Jokes! No Chaser Comedy Tour hosted by Mike Epps features Cedric the Entertainer, D.L. Hughley, Earthquake and D. C. Young Fly. Tickets are available at the Hampton Coliseum Box Office or Ticketmaster.com.

For more information, click here.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Located on the Calendar page of coliseumcentral.com, choose “Submit an Event” and complete the form with the details of your event; an event photo may also be added. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

To help our businesses succeed, Coliseum Central hosts a series of free Business Roundtable meetings where speakers present information related to the current business environment. We are asking for your feedback to help us enhance these meetings. Please click here to complete a short survey.

Everyone who completes the survey by March 8th will be entered for a chance to win 2 tickets to the March 26th Country for Kids concert featuring Sara Evans. Tickets are provided by the Center for Child & Family Services.

Coliseum Central will join the Hampton Clean City Commission to Walk Hampton Clean on April 27. This will be our first event since 2019. We are looking for individuals or teams to assist in this year’s clean up. Volunteers will meet at Central Security Services, 2101 Executive Drive, Suite 375, at 3:00PM and finish by 5:00PM. Coliseum Central will provide the litter pick-up tools, vests, gloves, and trash bags. To sign up, please click here or email Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com.

Smoothie Stop, 3150 Allainby Way, reopened its Peninsula Town Center location in January. Vice Mayor Jimmy Gray was on-hand at their Grand Reopening event on February 3rd.

Stop by and try their new menu items which include homemade soups, paninis, juices, and smoothies. For more information about Smoothie Stop, click here.

March 31
8AM-2PM
City Hall
22 Lincoln St.

Cannabist
Coliseum Specialty Shops
2400 Coliseum Drive, STE. 600
757-659-6440

Crown Jewelers
Peninsula Town Center
2510 Mcmenaminst.
757-304-3118

Beauty Outlet
Peninsula Town Center
3460 Von Schilling Dr.

Ivy Glam Beauty Bar
Peninsula Town Center
3460 Von Schilling Dr.

Mcalister’s Deli
Peninsula Town Center
2860 Kilgore Ave.

U Rock Art
Coliseum Crossing
70 Coliseum Crossing

The Coliseum Central Annual Meeting will take place Tuesday, February 28 at 8:00AM at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. The meeting will provide a review of the previous year, status reports from key constituents, and a look at the year ahead.

If you work, conduct business, own property or have other vested interest in Coliseum Central, we encourage you to attend! This event is free and open to all members of the BID. Click here to RSVP no later than February 14.

How will economic trends influence the business environment in 2023? This presentation will explore the effects of:

Professor Robert M. McNab currently serves as the Chair of the Department of Economics and Director of the Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy at Old Dominion University. He edits the annual State of the Region: Hampton Roads and State of the Commonwealth reports. Professor McNab has appeared in the Associated Press, Wall Street Journal, and Washington Post, among others.

The 34th Annual Mid-Atlantic Quilt Festival comes to the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) February 23-26. Attendees will have the opportunity to shop in the Merchants Mall, attend workshops, lectures and demonstrations, and view quilt, garment, and fiber art exhibitions at largest quilt festival on the Eastern Seaboard.

For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Country for Kids presented by Old Point National Bank will take place on Sunday, March 26, 2023 at Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive). This annual charity concert benefits the Center for Child & Family Services, which has been serving the community since 1943.

Multi-platinum entertainer Sara Evans will return to headline Country for Kids 2023. Sara has five No. 1 singles, including “A Real Fine Place to Start” and “Born to Fly,” and was named Top Female Vocalist by the Academy of Country Music in 2006.

For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Hampton Restaurant Week, sponsored by the Hampton Convention & Visitor Bureau, is back March 5-19, 2023. This year’s theme is “Sip, Savor and Stroll.” Participating restaurants may offer any combination of $10 and/or $15 lunches and $25 and/or $35 dinner specials. Patrons will be encouraged to visit a variety of restaurants during the two-week period.

Sign up today and be a part of the action:

The first ten restaurants to sign up will receive a special social media promotion. Click here for more information. Email media@hamptoncvb.com to receive a link to the online application. Deadline to register is February 8.

In December 2022, Sentara CarePlex Hospital celebrated 20 years serving the Hampton community. Since its opening, Sentara CarePlex Hospital has become home to the region’s first dedicated orthopedic hospital, has a newly opened Family Maternity Center, and has achieved Magnet Recognition for nursing excellence.

In honor of Financial Aid Awareness Month, Bryant & Stratton College (5030 Kilgore Avenue) will be hosting a special event for college degree seekers (traditional HS graduates & adult learners). The 2023 Financial Aid Information Summit will take place Thursday, February 16th from 6 – 8 PM.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

Special information sessions will address scholarships, loans, and military educational benefits.

For more information and to reserve your space, please call 757-896-6001. This event is free and open to the public.

February 9
1-5PM
YMCA Health & Wellness Center
4001 Coliseum Drive

There are no Board or Committee meetings in the month of February.

Colony Square
Collaborative Health
304 Marcella Rd., Ste. A
(757) 872-3800

Coliseum Crossing
Popshelf
15 Coliseum Crossing
(757)726-7986

Coliseum Specialty Shops
Cannabist
2400 Cunningham Drive
Ste. 900

Peninsula Town Center
Crown Jewelers
2360 McMenamin St.

Peninsula Town Center
Kay Jewelers
2854 Kilgore Ave.
(757) 262-0490

Coliseum Marketplace
Onelife Fitness
2170 Coliseum Drive

The Coliseum Central Annual Meeting will take place Tuesday, February 28 at 8:00AM at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. The meeting will provide a review of the previous year, status reports from key constituents, and a look at the year ahead.

How will economic trends influence the business environment in 2023? This presentation will explore the effects of:

If you work, conduct business, own property or have other vested interest in Coliseum Central, we encourage you to attend! This event is free and open to all members of the BID. Formal invitations will be mailed shortly. Click here to RSVP today.

The Professional Box Lacrosse Association (PBLA) kicked off its inaugural season in December 2022 with nine teams from Maine to North Carolina. The Hampton Hammerheads, one of two Virginia teams, will play home games in the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive). The Hammerheads first of seven home games takes place January 9 at 7PM. Tickets are on sale now and start at $15. For more information, click here.

The largest and longest running train and toy show in the Northeast is coming to the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) February 4-5. Greenberg’s Great Train and Toy Show, part of the Great American Train Show, features thousands of trains and collectible toys for sale, hundreds of merchandising tables, huge operating layouts, free modeling seminars and more! Modelers, collectors, families, and children of all ages will find lots to see and do. For more information, click here.

The PBR Pendleton Whisky Velocity Tour comes to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) on February 25 for the Hampton Classic. This event features some of the sport’s best athletes going head-to-head with the fiercest bulls in the country. Upgrade to the PBR Elite Experience and get premium seating, concession voucher, pre-show tour, and more! For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Located on the Calendar page of coliseumcentral.com, choose “Submit an Event” and complete the form with the details of your event; an event photo may also be added. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

Mayor Donnie Tuck delivered the 2022 State of the City address on December 1 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. In a presentation titled “Making a Splash”, Mayor Tuck highlighted the newly-opened Hampton Virginia Aquaplex and the impact it will have on sports tourism in the area. The 2023 USA Artistic Swimming Junior Olympic Championship, an 8-day event to be held this summer, is expected to fill more that 2,100 local hotel room nights and generate an economic impact of $3.7 million for Hampton Roads.

Click here for more information or to watch a video of the full event.

The new year means new resolutions. Let Coliseum Central help you keep those resolutions with options for healthy eating and staying fit. Find out more about dining and fitness options in Coliseum Central here.

Sentara CarePlex Hospital ranks among the nation’s best for patient care and safety in 2022. The hospital received an A rating for Fall 2022 from the Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog organization that advances patient safety in hospitals. Grades are based on how well hospitals protect patients from preventable medical errors, accidents, injuries, and infections.

In addition, it was one of eight Sentara hospitals recognized by U.S. News & World Report with a High Performing designation for providing high-quality labor and delivery services. These rankings are designed to assist expecting parents in making informed decisions about where to receive care.

Learn more about the hospital here.

January 27
8AM-1PM
Ruppert Sargent Bldg.
1 Franklin St.

Panera
Coliseum Crossing
2155 Coliseum Drive

Latitude Climbing + Fitness
Peninsula Town Center
2021 Executive Drive

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers held a ribbon cutting ceremony on November 30 to officially open its location at 1123 W. Mercury Blvd., Suite A. Lorri Powers with the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, Sonja Morrell with 106.9 The Fox and Raymond Tripp, Executive Director of Coliseum Central, were on-hand to welcome store manager Brian and his team to the District.

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers serves fresh cooked-to-order steakburgers and sides, as well as premium custard shakes, malts and sundaes. Find out more here.

Are you taking advantage of all of the programs and resources allotted to you as a member of Coliseum Central? Each month we’ll highlight one of the benefits available to District businesses.

Coliseum Central has a number of matching grant programs in place to help you improve the safety and curb appeal of your business. For a complete list of grant programs, click here.

Coliseum Central is pleased to present Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland sponsored by Sentara. This world-class circus experience is coming to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) on December 11 at 7PM. The talented cast of Cirque Musica will dazzle you with acrobats, aerialists, hilarious hijinks and holiday cheer. Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

Tickets start at $45 and are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com and the Hampton Coliseum Box office. Now through December 9, get four tickets for the price of three by selecting “Family Four Pack” when you order online, while supplies last.

Upgrade your experience by treating you and your family to VIP tickets. Create holiday memories you will cherish forever with an experience that includes premium seating, a post-show meet and greet with members of the cast, a chance to take photos, and official Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland tour merchandise. VIP tickets are $129 and quantities are limited.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is part of the Coliseum Central Holiday Extravaganza presented by Sentara.

Visit coliseumcentralholiday.com to learn more about Coliseum Central’s Holiday Extravaganza presented by Sentara. You’ll find season’s greetings videos from our sponsors and community partners as well as holiday stories read by city dignitaries. You’ll even hear from the big guy himself, Santa Claus!

Visit with Santa, take a Holiday Wonder Walk, or explore Santa’s Wonderland. Here are the holiday events happening in Coliseum Central this month:

Monster Jam returns to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) January 20-22, 2023 with world-class athletes in intense competitions of speed and skill. Tickets are on sale now. Upgrade your experience with entry to the Monster Jam Pit Party and the Monster Jam Post-Event Driver Meet and Greet. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Hampton has been named a Top 10 Digital City by the Center for Digital Government. This is the 20th time the city has receive recognition, this year placing eighth on the list of cities its size.

The city was recognized for its innovative use of technology and citizen engagement. Some of the city’s initiatives that were highlighted include increase in cybersecurity efforts, network upgrades and increased citizen communication and interaction.

The holiday season is here and Coliseum Central is your one-stop for all your holiday needs.

Check off everything on your gift list. With fourteen shopping centers and hundreds of stores you’ll find something for everyone on your list. For more information, click here.

Find the perfect place for a holiday get-together. With over 70 dining options, you’re sure to find something to suit every appetite. Click here for more information.

December 4
9:30AM-2:30PM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
2150 Cunningham Drive

December 16
9AM-2PM
Freedom Life Church
2200 Coliseum Drive

December 27
8AM-1PM
Sentara CarePlex Hospital
3000 Coliseum Drive

December 30
9AM-2PM
Bass Pro Shops
1972 Power Plant Pkwy.

Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
1123 W. Mercury Blvd.
Suite A
757-504-3545

Banfield Animal Hospital
1123 W. Mercury Blvd.
Suite E

City dignitaries, including Vice Mayor Jimmy Gray, Councilman Chris Bowman, Councilman Steve Brown, and Economic Development Director Chuck Rigney were in attendance as Raising Cane’s (1044 W. Mercury Blvd) held its grand opening celebration on November 17. Hampton University drumline, cheerleaders and Pirate mascot also participated in the festivities.

Raising Cane’s is know for its chicken fingers combos. In fact, that’s the only thing on their menu. They call it their “One Love.” Find out more about Raising Cane’s here.

Coliseum Central has a number of matching grant programs in place to help you improve the safety and curb appeal of your business. For a complete list of grant programs, click here.

Don’t miss Coliseum Central’s exciting addition to the Holiday Extravaganza Presented by Sentara. The Whimsical Winter Wonderland takes place on Saturday, November 19 from 12-5PM at the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive).

This FREE, festive celebration will include fun for the whole family. The Sentara Main Stage will feature shows by aerialists, jugglers, and illusionists. Four holiday-themed areas with coordinating backdrops, props and displays will provide ample opportunities for photos. In addition, there will be roaming characters and stilt walkers, a variety of photo booths, face painting, balloon and glitter tattoo artists, and carnival-style games.

Our holiday website – coliseumcentralholiday.com launches November 9, with information about our in-person events, season’s greetings videos from our sponsors and community partners, and holiday stories read by our city dignitaries.

For more information, call 757-826-6351 or click here.

Add your events to the Coliseum Central website calendar! Click here and complete the form with the details of your event; an event photo may also be added. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

Coliseum Central is pleased to present Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland sponsored by Sentara. Coming to the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) on Sunday, December 11 at 7PM, “Wonderland” is an all-new musical journey that will transport audiences to a magical land far away for a fun-filled, unforgettable holiday-themed show experience.

Treat yourself and your family to a VIP Experience at Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland! Create holiday memories you will cherish forever with an experience that includes premium seating, a post-show meet and greet with members of the cast, a chance to take photos, and official Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland tour merchandise. VIP tickets are limited.

Tickets are on sale now. Prices range from $45-$129. To purchase tickets, click here.

Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland is part of the Coliseum Central Holiday Extravaganza Presented by Sentara.

Coliseum Crossing
John Khut Salon
10 Coliseum Crossing
757-251-2901

Coliseum Crossing
Concrete Rose Scrubs
41 Coliseum Crossing

Philly Cheesesteak Cafe
Mayor Donnie Tuck and Councilman Steve Brown were on hand for the Philly Cheeseteak Cafe (4311 E. Claiborne Sq.) ribbon cutting ceremony on September 29th. Serving authentic Philly cheesesteaks and Philly water-ice, as well as wings and Cheesesteak egg rolls, Philly Cheesesteak Cafe has something for every appetite. For more information, click here.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held on October 13th for 29th & Green Bistro (2274 Executive Drive). Congressman Bobby Scott, State Senator Maime Locke, and Councilman Steve Brown were on-hand for the festivities. In addition to burgers, sandwiches, and seafood options, 29th & Green Bistro also offers a world-class vegan menu. For more information, click here.