District stakeholders and business partners attended the Coliseum Central Annual Meeting to network, learn and celebrate the theme of “innovation”. Jenny Crittenden of Retail Alliance discussed retail and consumer trends. Police Chief Wideman and Mayor Gray shared messages and Park Lane Tavern and U Rock Art provided tips for customer service and social media, respectively. We would like to thank all presenters, vendors and other contributors to the program. Click here to view program, award winners, video recap and full recording.

Ambassador of the Year: Ruth Hendricks

Best Customer Service: sweetFrog

Best Financial Institution: Langley Federal Credit Union

Best Health & Wellness: YMCA Health & Wellness Center

Best Hotel: Embassy Suites

Best Kid-Friendly Business/Attraction: Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Best Medical Practice/Facility: Sentara CarePlex Hospital

Best New Business: sweetFrog

Best Restaurant: Park Lane Tavern

Best Retailer: U Rock Art

Best Shopping Center: Peninsula Town Center

Best SWaM Business: U Rock Art

Best Social Media Presence: U Rock Art

Best Vibe/Aesthetic: sweetFrog

Coliseum Central would like to welcome the Board Members who were elected during the Annual Meeting – Donna Frazier (Holiday Inn Express), Pam Parrish (Southeastern), Dee Richardson (Atrium Hospitality), Andy Ruckman (First Team Hampton Chevrolet) and Corban Vanriper (Target).

Coliseum Central would like to thank the following Board Members whose terms have ended for their commitment and service to the District – Melissa Holt (Chicken Salad Chick), Akhil Jain (Landmark Hotel Group), Donna Meland (Nicholas & Meland Family Eyecare), Philip Scottie (Philip Michael Fashion for Men) and Marcellus “Boo” Williams (State Farm).

The next Coliseum Central Annual Meeting will take place on Tuesday, February 26 at the Hampton Roads Convention Center.

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 annual Neighborhood Night Out Health & Safety Fair will take place at the Hampton Roads Convention Center on August 13 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 department will be on-hand to demonstrate safety vehicles and equipment. Kid-friendly activities include face-painting, balloon animals, games, music, and more! Each year, hundreds of families attend the event to enjoy entertainment and learn more about District businesses. This is the perfect opportunity to be part of a well-attended and advertised tradition.

District Businesses related to health, safety or crime prevention are invited to participate at no cost. This is a great opportunity to promote your business, show your community support, and network with other District businesses. Deadline to register is July 12. Register HERE.

Ivy Glam Spa & Wellness | Peninsula Town Center, 3420 Von Schilling Drive | 757.827.2395

Shah’s Halal Food | Peninsula Town Center, 3150 Allainby Way | 703.373.0433

Coliseum Central’s Annual Meeting will take place Tuesday, February 25 from 8:30-10:30AM at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. This year’s theme is “Innovating Retail: Trends, Social Media and Exceptional Service for Tomorrow’s Success.”  Jenny Crittenden, President & CEO of Retail Alliance, will serve as the keynote speaker and discuss Retail Trends while Chad Batten of Park Lane Tavern will discuss Customer service, and Caroline Peabody of U Rock Art will discuss the Impact of a Strong Social Media Presence.

The meeting will also include messages from Mayor Jimmy Gray and Police Chief Jimmie Wideman, as well as an awards ceremony highlighting the “Best of” Coliseum Central businesses.

If you work, conduct business, own property or have another vested interests in Coliseum Central, we encourage you to attend! This event is free and open to all members of the BID. RSVP at: news.coliseumcentral.com/annual25. Registration ends on February 17. 

Get the latest news and updates from Coliseum Central in your inbox!  Occasionally there may be information we’d like to share beyond this monthly newsletter. If you are a property owner or operate a business in the district, please subscribe to our e-mail list by signing up here on our website: coliseumcentral.com/subscribe-to-our-newsletter

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.

Businesses located within Coliseum Central’s boundaries are encouraged to take advantage of the many tools and resources available on our website. The Do Business section of the website caters to those businesses, property owners, and investors within the boundaries of our district, and the tools provided should be used to help navigate operating a business and/or property in the district. This includes, but is not limited to the benefits of being located within BID boundaries, our services, clean and safe resources, marketing opportunities, and more. More specifically, the BID Member Benefits page is the central hub for sharing important information about our efforts to boost Coliseum Central’s vibrancy and support district businesses.

Coliseum Central partnered with Vistity to create a 360-degree Virtual Tour of the Coliseum District. This tour provides a unique and immersive way for potential investors, businesses, and visitors to explore the district and discover all that it has to offer, making it easier for potential investors and businesses to get a better sense of what it’s like to be in the area. Property owners can utilize this tool when looking to lease space or develop property, while business owners should be sure to add your business as a point of interest on the tour with a brief description, photos, video and website.

Coliseum Central is showcasing district businesses as part of our seasonal billboard campaigns.  Each campaign has a theme and highlights businesses using fun taglines. There is no cost to participate.

Adams Outdoor Advertising will create the artwork and businesses will have final approval before it runs. Billboard campaigns will run for up to 2 weeks at (3) locations — (2) on I-64 at Rip Rap Road in Hampton (east and westbound) and (1) on High Street in Portsmouth, reaching motorists heading to I-664.

Upcoming campaigns include Health & Fitness and Spring (spring break, spring cleaning, etc.). If your Coliseum Central Business fits these categories and you would like to participate, please visit: news.coliseumcentral.com/billboard.

If you have any questions, please contact Raymond Tripp at rtripp@coliseumcentral.com.

The Coliseum Central Annual Meeting will take place Tuesday, February 25 from 8:30-10:30AM at the Hampton Roads Convention Center. Jenny Crittenden, President & CEO of Retail Alliance, will serve as the keynote speaker and discuss retail trends. The meeting will also include messages from the Mayor Jimmy Gray, Police Chief Jimmie Wideman as well as an awards ceremony highlighting the “Best of” Coliseum Central businesses. If you work, conduct business, own property or have another 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. RSVP now at news.coliseumcentral.com/annual25. 

Coliseum Central wants to know who’s #1 in your book. Vote for the “Best of” Coliseum Central businesses at events.coliseumcentral.com/best-of by January 31. Winners will be announced at the Coliseum Central Annual Meeting held on February 25. 

Best Customer Service: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, sweetFrog, U Rock Art 

Best Health & Wellness: Latitude Climbing & Fitness, Onelife Fitness, YMCA Health & Wellness Center 

Best New Business: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, sweetFrog 

Best Shopping Center: Coliseum Crossing, Peninsula Town Center 

Best Financial Institution: Bayport Credit Union, Langley Federal Credit Union, Navy Federal Credit Union 

Best Kid-Friendly Business/Attraction: Marys Park, Sky Zone Trampoline Park 

Best Restaurant: Chicken Salad Chick, Monsoon Eclectic Modern Indian, Panera, Park Lane Tavern

Best Social Media Presence: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, U Rock Art

Best Vibe/Aesthetic: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, sweetFrog, U Rock Art 

Best Hotel: Element Hotel, Embassy Suites, Hampton Inn 

Best Medical Practice/Facility: Sentara CarePlex Hospital, Sight 2 See Optometry 

Best Retailer: JCPenney, Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, U Rock Art 

Best SWaM Business: Luna Estelle Body Piercing Studio, U Rock Art

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.

Feeling overwhelmed by the daily grind? Sign up for Retail Alliance’s Retail Therapy Retreat taking place on February 2-3 at the Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg. This weekend-long event will allow you to to refocus your energy, recharge, and connect with like-minded women. The event includes: Keynote by Eva DeVirgilis TEDxWomen speaker, award-winning playwright, and advocate for women’s empowerment, a stay at the Kingsmill Resort, complimentary dinner, drinks, breakfast and lunch, insightful workshops, yoga, meditation, and mindfulness sessions.

Visit retailalliance.com/events/retail-therapy-2025 for more information and to register.

January 16th — 9am | Marketing Committee

January 16th — 10:30am | Physical Improvements Committee

January 21st — 9am | Security Meetings

January 28th — 9am | Board of Directors

All Meetings are held in the BID office 2101 Executive Drive, Suite 550. 

Coliseum Central is showcasing District businesses as part of our seasonal billboard campaigns. Each campaign will have a theme and will highlight businesses using fun taglines. The Fall & Winter campaigns included marketing highlighting area dining. 

There is no cost to participate. Adams Outdoor Advertising will create the artwork 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 next campaigns include Health & Fitness, Valentine’s Day and Spring events (spring break, spring cleaning, etc.). If your Coliseum Central Business fits any of these categories and you would like to participate, please visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/billboard and:

Deadline to submit materials is January 27. If you have any questions, please contact Raymond Tripp at rtripp@coliseumcentral.com. 

We would like to extend a very special thank you to all the sponsors, volunteers, and attendees who helped make Coliseum Central’s Whimsical Winter Wonderland presented by Bryant & Stratton College a success!

The largest and longest-running train and toy show in the northeast is coming to the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) on December 28-29 from 8AM-5PM. Greenberg’s Great Train Show features thousands of trains and collectible toys for sale, hundreds of merchandising tables, huge operating model train displays, seminars and more. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit trainshow.com.

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 holiday season is here and Coliseum Central is your one stop for all your holiday needs. With fourteen shopping centers and hundreds of stores and restaurants, you’ll find something for everyone on your list and the perfect place to grab a bite to eat. Visit events.coliseumcentral.com/shopping-dining for more information.

HOTWORX (2170 Coliseum Drive) is coming to Coliseum Central! HOTWORX is an exercise program that provides users with the opportunity to reap the benefits of infrared heat absorption while engaging in a 30-minute Isometric workout or a 15-minute High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) session under virtual instruction. Visit HOTWORX on Friday, December 6th from 1-7PM for the VIP pre-sale event to unlock discounted enrollment, meet the staff and much more. Visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/hotworx to learn more.

The Bryant & Stratton College Hampton Campus (5300 Kilgore Avenue) will hold its Rapid Registration Open House Kickoff Open House event for the January 2025 semester on Saturday, December 14th from 10AM-1PM. Classes begin January 15th.

Chicken Salad Chick (2850 Kilgore Avenue) will host a “Kids Eat Free” night on Tuesday, December 17th from 5-7PM. Guests will receive a FREE little chick meal with the purchase of an adult meal. The event will feature crafts, story time at 6PM, and Santa Claus. Click here for more information.

The FREE Holiday Wonder Walk returns December 20-25, from 5-8PM nightly. The Water Walk Trail located behind the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Drive) will be festively decorated with lights and seasonal decor. Each night will feature a food and drink vendor, holiday crafters and other surprises. Parking is available in designated spots at the Hampton Coliseum and Hampton Roads Convention Center. Click here to learn more.

Country for Kids, the annual charity concert to benefit the Center for Child & Family Services, is coming to the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Drive) on Saturday, February 22, 2025. Country music artist Chayce Beckham will serve as the headliner. Ty Street, Alec Edmonds and Tracielynn will appear as special guests. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.

Chase Bank
1700 W. Mercury Boulevard
757-755-3407

JD Sports
2830 McMenamin Street
Suite 122
757-827-2750

Coliseum Central is showcasing District businesses as part of our seasonal billboard campaigns. 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 two locations- I-64 at Rip Rap Road in Hampton (east- and westbound).

To participate, please visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/billboard and:

We are excited to announce that the Coliseum Central Annual Meeting scheduled on February 25, 2025 will include an awards ceremony to recognize standout District businesses and owners. Help us identify the best of the best in Coliseum Central. We are currently seeking nominations in the following categories:

Submit your nominations at https://events.coliseumcentral.com/nominate. Nominations will close on December 31, 2024. Stay tuned! Voting information will be included in the January newsletter. Winners will be announced at the Coliseum Central Annual Meeting.

Indoor activities include stage shows, roaming characters, carnival games, and princess meet & greets. There will be ample opportunities for photos in the various photo booths and holiday-themed areas. In addition, there will be face painting, balloon artists and glitter tattoos.

Outdoor activities include world’s largest rocking horse, inflatable obstacle course, petting zoo, 30′ inflatable Santa Bounce House, Sensory Activation Vehicle and a DJ. A table will be set up at the entrance to the Hampton Coliseum where we will collect food and monetary donations for the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank.

Click here for more information or to view the 2023 recap video.

Coliseum Central is excited to announce a new sponsorship level, which allows businesses inclusion in our Holiday Shopping, Dining & Event Guide. Promote your business to the 5000+ Whimsical Winter Wonderland participants and share upcoming events, sales, discounts or general information. The guide will be advertised via coliseumcentral.com, billboard campaign, digital program, media advertising, and the Whimsical Winter Wonderland event. Sponsorship is $750.

To learn more about how your organization can be a part of this exciting event, click here.

Volunteers will be on-site at two drive-through locations to collect food and monetary donations:

Click here for more information and a list of their most-needed items.

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.

Runway Rules Academy will hold its 6th Annual Holiday Toy Drive from November 15- December 19. Toys or monetary donations can be dropped off at 29th & Green Bistro (2274 Executive Dr.) Diners at the restaurant can opt for a portion of their check to be donated. All donations will be given to CHKD, Hampton Department of Human Services, and Mary Peake Early Childhood Center for distribution. In addition, families in need can pick up toys at 29th & Green Bistro on December 19 from 5-8PM.

For more information, please call 404-902-2120 or email runwayrulers@gmail.com.

In the third quarter of 2024, Rosie’s Hampton contributed a total of $27,400 through it’s Rosie’s Gives Back program to support eleven trusted community partners. Recipients included Soundscapes Gala, The Youth Volunteer Corp of Hampton Roads, Hampton Roads Police Athletic League, Chateau Care, Parents Against Bullying, and Center for Sexual Assault Survivors.

For more information or to register, click here.

Hampton Roads Educators Credit Union received a $10,000 grant through the National Credit Union Administration to replace current debit cards with contactless debit cards for their members. The grant monies will help fund the conversion costs of producing the new cards, which should be available to members by summer, 2025.

“By having the latest technology, the credit union can remain competitive in the marketplace as well as make the Debit Cards more secure when used at an ATM where skimmers are possible,” stated HRECU CEO Karen Orie.

November 8
9AM-2PM
Hampton Roads Convention Center
1600 Coliseum Dr.

November 8
10AM-3PM
Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home
2155 N. Armistead Ave.

December 2
10AM-3PM
Bass Pro Shops
1972 Power Plant Pkwy.

Sentara Family Medicine & Pediatrics
4000 Coliseum Dr, Ste. 280A
757-827-2400

Coliseum Square
Hotworx
2040 Coliseum Dr, Ste. A01

Vice Mayor Jimmy Gray and City Council members Chris Bowman, Hope Harper, and Martha Mugler were on-hand to assist in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Rhythm Room (1471 Merchant Lane) on October 17. The Rhythm Room is an upscale restaurant and lounge that features great food and drinks along with live music and karaoke. For more information, click here.

Bryant & Stratton College Hampton Campus (5030 Kilgore Ave.) held a ceremony September 26 to commemorate its 170th Anniversary. Many state and local leaders, students, staff, and community partners were in attendance to help with the celebration. City Council member Steven Brown read a proclamation from the City of Hampton and Director of Hampton Roads Campuses, Jeff Thorud shared some of the College’s history. For more information about the Hampton Campus, click here.

Coliseum Central’s 3rd Annual Whimsical Winter Wonderland event kicks off the holiday season on November 23 from 12-5PM at the Hampton Coliseum. This FREE, festive celebration includes fun for the whole family.

Indoor activities include aerialists, carnival games, and princess meet & greets. There will be ample opportunities for photos in the various photo booths and holiday-themed areas. In addition, there will be face painting, balloon and glitter tattoo artists.

Outdoor activities include inflatables, obstacle course, petting zoo, 30′ inflatable Santa Claus, and a DJ. A table will be set up at the entrance to the Hampton Coliseum where we will collect food and monetary donations for the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank.

Click here for more information or to view the 2023 recap video.

This event provides a great opportunity to promote your organization by serving as a Whimsical Winter Wonderland sponsor. To learn more about how your organization can be a part of this exciting event, 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.

Coliseum Central is proud to be the Post-Race Party Sponsor for the Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon Weekend October 5-6. Stop by our tent where we’ll have kids’ activities, giveaways from our businesses, and more!

Runners, Coliseum Central businesses are excited to have you in the District. Show your bib and/or medal at these locations for discounts during race weekend:

Also, Park Lane Tavern has created a specialty drink to celebrate race weekend!

For more information, click here.

The Hampton Virginia Aquaplex (1908 Coliseum Dr.) will host several large swim and dive events this fall including:

For more information or to register, click here.

October 28
10AM-3PM
Sentara CarePlex Hospital
3000 Coliseum Dr.

Coliseum Central partnered with Vistity to create a 360° virtual tour of the entire District. The tour is prominently located on the front page of our new website, allowing visitors to see all that Coliseum Central has to offer.

The Tour includes:

Individual businesses can be included as points of interest. A brief description, photos, video, and website link can be included for each point of interest. Have your Coliseum Central business added to the virtual tour by submitting your information here.

Have you claimed your free business page? All District businesses can claim a free, personalized business page on our website. Each page includes a description, address, phone number, email address, website and social links, photos, hours of operation, and Google map.

Click here to find your business page. Review your page and submit any updates or photos here.

Share your job openings with us. Our robust form allows you to share information such as employment type, job description, weekly and shift hours, duties, requirements, work conditions, benefits, and more. Click here to share your job listing. Submissions will be reviewed prior to posting on the website.

Coliseum Central’s 3rd Annual Whimsical Winter Wonderland event kicks off the holiday season on November 23 from 12-5PM at the Hampton Coliseum. This FREE, festive celebration includes fun for the whole family. Indoor activities include aerialists, carnival games, and princess meet & greets. There will be ample opportunities for photos in the various photo booths and holiday-themed areas. In addition, there will be face painting, balloon and glitter tattoo artists. Outdoor activities include inflatables, maze, petting zoo, 30′ inflatable Santa Claus, and holiday-themed ponies. For more information, click here.

This event provides a great opportunity to promote your organization by serving as a Whimsical Winter Wonderland sponsor. For sponsorship information, contact Eboni Council at 757-826-6351 or ecouncil@coliseumcentral.com.

Coliseum Central is the Post-Race Party Sponsor for the Crawlin’ Crab Half Marathon Weekend, taking place October 5-6 in front of the Hampton Coliseum. Staff will be on-hand both days with giveaways, as well as games and activities for the kids. Additionally, we will be providing information about places to shop, dine, and play within the District.

We are offering District businesses two marketing opportunities:

To participate, please contact Angie Ewton at 757-826-6351.

Bryant & Stratton College Hampton Campus (5030 Kilgore Ave.) is hosting its 170th Anniversary Celebration on September 26 from 12-1PM. This event will commemorate their commitment to academic excellence.

Click here to RSVP for the event. For more information, email cgoodwynharris@bryantstratton.edu or call 757-896-6001.

Retail Alliance’s Retailpreneur Series continues with a virtual three-part workshop on mastering your marketing strategy. The workshops will take place via Zoom from 8:30-9:45AM on September 10, October 8, and November 12. Lindsey Germano, President of Germano Advertising Company will discuss:

For more information or to register, click here.

The City of Hampton has recently announced the following personnel changes:

MOMO’s Cafe (1930 Power Plant Pkwy.) is hosting an all-you-can-eat BBQ Buffet on September 28 from 11AM-2PM. Celebrate the end of Summer as MOMO and the crew dish up lots of favorites including BBQ, burgers, salads, sides, and desserts. Click here for more information.

September 29
9AM-2PM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
2150 Cunningham Dr.

Peninsula Town Center
Spirit Halloween
3440 Von Schilling Dr.
855-704-2669

Peninsula Town Center
The Rhythm Room
1471 Merchant Lane

Day & Night Exotic Cereal Bar (1260 Merchant Lane) held a Grand Opening celebration on August 22. Council members Steve Brown, Chris Bowman, and Billy Hobbs and City Manager Mary Bunting were on-hand to assist with the ribbon-cutting.

Day & Night Exotic Cereal Bar is a cereal-themed snack bar offering milkshakes, dessert cereal bowls, and exotic snacks. Their decor includes murals painted by local artists. For more information, click here.

Coliseum Central is showcasing District businesses as part of our Fall billboard campaigns. This season’s themes will include a taglines including “Fall into/Fall in love with.”

There is no cost to participate. Adams outdoor Advertising creates the ad and businesses have final approval before it runs. Billboard campaigns run for up to two weeks on three billboards.

To participate in the fall campaign, please click here. Deadline to submit materials is September 30.

Indoor pools at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex will be closed from August 11-25 for required maintenance. During this time, swim lessons will be held after hours in the SplashDown Park. Lessons will be available for preschool and school-aged kids only. The SplashDown park will be open for normal activities from 11AM-6PM daily. Click here for more information about membership, programs, and events at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex.

Bring the whole family to Chicken Salad Chick (2850 Kilgore Ave.) where kids eat free every Tuesday in August. From 5-7PM, kids will receive a FREE Little Chick Meal with the purchase of a Chick Meal. A local library will be on-hand to provide story time at 6PM. Click here for more information.

It’s time to prepare for the upcoming school year. Coliseum Central retailers have everything you need to go back in style. To make shopping a breeze, click here.

August 13
3-3-6PM
Hampton Roads Convention Center
1610 Coliseum Dr.

August 16
12:30-4:15PM
YMCA Health & Wellness Center
4001 Coliseum Dr.

August 26
11AM-3PM
Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home
2551 Armistead Ave.

August 28
10AM-3PM
Bass Pro Shops
1972 Power Plant Pkwy.

Peninsula Town Center
Luna Estelle
1246 Merchant Lane
757-527-2184

Peninsula Town Center
IvyGlam Spa & Wellness
3420 Von Schilling Dr.
757-243-8666

Peninsula Town Center
The Meadows Frozen Custard
2902 Kilgore Ave.

Have you claimed your free business page? All District businesses can claim a free, personalized business page on our website. Each page includes a description, address, phone number, email address, website and social links, photos, hours of operation, and Google map.

Click here to find your business page. Review your page and submit any updates or photos here.

District businesses related to health, safety or crime prevention are invited to participate at no cost. This is a great opportunity to promote your business, show your community support, and network with other District businesses. Click here to register.

Podcasts are very popular and can be a great way to learn from experts. Here are a few local organizations that have started their own podcasts:

Dominion Physical Therapy & Associates recently launched their podcast, “The Community Connection.” Director of Marketing & Business Development, Lindsay Lopez, talks with community leaders and addresses topics that are relevant to Hampton Roads. You can find this podcast on their YouTube channel here.

Hampton Police Division’s podcast, “Unveiled: with Chief Jimmie Wideman”, gives insight into the world of policing and the men and women who protect and serve. New episodes drop every Thursday on Spotify and Amazon Music. Click here to listen on one of these platforms.

Hampton City Schools (HCS) just completed the first season of “HCS Talks” with Dr. Raymond Haynes, HCS Superintendent. This podcast discusses all aspects of education, including programs and initiatives, community partnerships and more. “HCS Talks” is available on most podcast apps, including Apple, Spotify and Pandora. Click here to listen on your favorite platform.

Bryant & Stratton College (5030 Kilgore Ave.) will host a Community Health & Resource Fair Wednesday July 24 from 10AM-6:30PM. The Chesapeake Regional Healthcare 3D Mobile Mammography Unit will be onsite from 10AM-2PM providing free breast cancer screenings. The Red Cross will be conducting a blood drive from 11AM-3PM. Other activities include massage therapy, mental health awareness, local community resources, vendor giveaways, and more.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information call 757-896-6001 or email Kim Holman at kdholman@bryantstratton.edu.

Summer is officially here and there’s lots to do and see in Coliseum Central! Beat the heat with some indoor fun, do a little shopping for that summer vacation or grab a bite to eat at one of our more than 90 restaurants! You’ll find everything you need here.

July 24
11AM-3PM
Bryant & Stratton College
5030 Kilgore Ave.

Riverpointe Shopping Center
Velvet Wax & Beauty
1110 W. Mercury Blvd.
757-550-1928

Peninsula Town Center
Teriyaki Madness
2033 Coliseum Dr.
757-243-8001

Peninsula Town Center
Arisa Medical
4410 E. Claiborne Sq., Ste. 208

Peninsula Town Center
Day & Night Cereal Bar
1260 Merchant Lane

This is a great opportunity to promote your business, show your community support, and network with other District businesses. Click here to register. Deadline to register is July 12.

Want more exposure for your upcoming event? Add it to the coliseumcentral.com event calendar! Click here and complete the form with details of your event. Once submitted, events will be published on the site calendar within one business day.

If your event takes place Friday-Sunday, we’ll also feature it on our “Weekend Roundup.” Information about events happening in the District each weekend will be shared in a Weekend Roundup guide on the front page of our website as well as on our social media.

Retail Alliance is hosting a Retail 360 event on June 11 from 8-10AM at the Manor House at Windsor Castle Park (705 Cedar St., Smithfield). With Retail 360, Retail Alliance aims to facilitate an exchange of knowledge and solutions. The event uses a unique format where participants are divided into three groups that rotate tables every 30 minutes. Tables are facilitated by an expert who will guide discussions on the designated topic. Topics include:

The event is free however registration is required. Registration is open until June 7.

It’s June and that means shopping for dads and grads. Let Coliseum Central help with all your gift-giving needs. Our Graduation and Father’s Day Guides can be found here.

The Splashdown Park at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex (1908 Coliseum Drive) is open for the season. The park will be open on weekends through June 16 and will open daily beginning June 17 through Labor Day. Gaining entry to the SplashDown Park is easier this year. Guest will be able to sign their day pass waiver and jump right in. Information about day passes or membership, can be found at https://news.coliseumcentral.com/SplashDownPark.

Registration is now open for Summer Splash Camp at the Aquaplex. Week-long themed camps for ages 6-12 will be held throughout the summer. For camp dates and registration, visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/summer-camp.

June 14
12:30-4:15PM
YMCA Health & Wellness Center
4001 Coliseum Drive

June 28
10AM-3PM
Bass Pro Shops
1972 Power Plant Pkwy.

June 30
9AM-2PM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
2150 Cunningham Drive

Coliseum Corner
Como en Casa
2169 Cunningham Drive
757-640-8844

Coliseum Corner
Royalty Rentals
2175 Cunningham Dr.
757-839-2031

Peninsula Town Center
Log In
1690 Merchant Lane

Mercury Plaza
Chick-fil-A
110 Marketplace Dr.

District businesses related to health, safety or crime prevention are invited to participate at no cost. This is a great opportunity to promote your business, show your community support, and network with other District businesses. Click here to register. Deadline to register is July 12.

Coliseum Central is showcasing District businesses as part of our seasonal billboard campaigns. Each campaign will have a theme and will highlight 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.

Our next campaign is Summer events, activities and leisure. If your business pertains to those categories, is located in Coliseum Central and you would like to participate, please visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/billboard.

Deadline to submit materials for summer campaign is May 31. If you have any questions, please contact Angie Ewton at aewton@coliseumcentral.com.

There are many small businesses that call Coliseum Central home. We understand that they are an important part of the success of the District and would like to recognize them in our Small Business Spotlight. Each month we want to shine the spotlight on a District business to learn who they are, what they do, and where you can find them.

If you are a small business owner in the District and would like to be featured in an upcoming newsletter, please click here to submit your business information, logo and headshot.

Spring is in the air and Coliseum Central is the place to be! We have 14 shopping centers where you’re sure to find all the spring essentials, dozens of salons and spas to pamper yourself, 70+ eateries when you need a break, and lots of entertainment venues for a day of fun. Find all there is to do in Coliseum Central this spring here.

Parklawn – Wood Funeral Home and Memorial Park (2551 N. Armistead Ave.) is hosting The Spring Festival May 10-11. The Parklawn-Wood Social on Friday, May 10 provides guests with an opportunity to meet the staff and tour the facility from 10AM-3PM. Saturday events include a Mother’s Day Celebration and Paws for Pride pet expo from 10AM-2PM. Guests can enjoy music, food, 80+ vendors, giveaways, pony rides, goat yoga and pet rescues. For more information click here.

Get ready for water fun this summer with swim lessons at the Hampton Virginia Aquaplex (1908 Coliseum Drive.) They offer lessons for all ages and skill levels. Parent and child classes introduce children 6 months – 3 years to the water and teach parents water safety. Separate classes are available for preschool and school-aged children as well as those with special needs. Adult classes, dive instruction, and intro to competitive swim round out the offerings. Click here for more information or to register.

May 23
11AM-3PM
Parklawn-Wood Funeral Home
2551 N. Armistead Ave.

Peninsula Town Center
Chase Bank
1700 W. Mercury Blvd.

Peninsula Town Center
Luna Estelle
1246 Merchant Lane

Onelife Fitness (2190 Coliseum Drive) held a ribbon-cutting ceremony April 8 to open their new 60,000 square foot club. Amenities at the facility include state-of-the-art cardio and strength equipment, indoor saltwater pool & whirlpool, boutique studio classes, cycle studio, strike boxing, cardio cinema, kid’s club, and more! In addition to these amenities, members also have access to 9 area locations. Click here to take a virtual tour of the facility, join online, or claim a free trial pass.

Many city dignitaries and community members were on-hand as sweetFrog (97 Coliseum Crossing) held a grand opening celebration on April 17. sweetFrog features a variety of flavors of soft-serve premium frozen yogurt and a large toppings bar, allowing customers to create their own dessert. This location also features a party room perfect for birthdays or other celebrations. For more information, click here.

Hampton City Schools has transformed its four high schools into 16 career-focused, community-connected, small learning communities, better known as the Academies of Hampton. The 16 academies are broken down into 44 different pathways of study including:

Every business, no matter how large or small, can be engaged in the Academies of Hampton. Partnership activities vary depending on the pathway needs and partner interests and resources. Partnership opportunities include:

Could your business use additional help this summer? The city’s Office Of Youth and Young Adult Opportunities is accepting applications from local businesses to employ Hampton youth and young adults ages 16-24. Employees may work up to 20 hours per week from June 17-August 23.

There is no cost to businesses. All program participants are paid by the Office of Youth and Young Adult Opportunities. Students are matched with businesses based on their interests and availability. For more information or to apply, visit https://news.coliseumcentral.com/summer-employment. The deadline to apply is May 1.

For information about sponsorships, restaurant registration, or to purchase tickets, click here.

NBA star Allen Iverson brings his Iverson Classic, an NBA-certified event, to Hampton this May. The top high school basketball players in the country will battle in the 24K Showcase and skills competition May 2 at Bethel High School (1067 Big Bethel Rd.) and the All-American Game at the Hampton Coliseum (1000 Coliseum Dr.) May 4. Former NBA stars will serve as coaches and mentors. Get your tickets today!

In honor of Women’s History Month, Bryant & Stratton College Hampton Campus is hosting the Women Who Lead With Purpose Symposium on March 21 at 5:30PM. A panel discussion featuring Captain Janet H. Days, Commanding Officer, Naval Station Norfolk; Mary Bunting, Hampton City Manager; and Michelle Ellis-Young, CEO, YWCA South Hampton Roads will provide insights on achieving success in business and community endeavors.

For more information, call 757-896-6001. Click here to register.

The Virginia Peninsula Foodbank needs your help to fill their shelves. Food or monetary donations can be dropped off at their location at 2401 Aluminum Ave. or at one of these local events:

April 4 – Cava (2033 Coliseum Dr.) will be accepting donations during their grand opening.

April 6 from 9:30AM-12:00PM – Hampton Roads Educators Credit Union (2130 Cunningham Dr.) will be accepting donations during their shred event.

April 1-29 – Walmart (1900 Cunningham Dr.) will be giving customers the option to make a donation at the check-out. Customers can also give online.

The Hampton Master Gardeners spring plant sale will take place May 4 at Bluebird Gap Farm (60 Pine Chapel Rd.) from 9AM-12PM. Bring your own wagon or cart and stock up on locally grown plants. Master Gardeners will be available for free plant advice as well. Click here for more information.

Artwork from Hampton City School students will be showcased at the Hampton Roads Convention Center (1610 Coliseum Dr.) from April 1-28 for Create 2024, the annual high school art show. Visitors can view the artwork Monday-Friday from 8AM-5PM. There will be a reception on April 16 from 6:00-7:30PM with make-and-take and interactive activities, including selfie stations, origami, friendship bracelets, and more.

April 7
9:30AM-2:30PM
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
2150 Cunningham Dr.

Coliseum Marketplace
Onelife Fitness
2190 Coliseum Dr.
757-516-7530

Peninsula Town Center
Cava
2033 Coliseum Dr.

Coliseum Crossing
SweetFrog
96 Coliseum Crossing

The Hampton-Newport News Community Services Board (CSB) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the BJ Roberts Behavioral Health Center (300 Marcella Rd.) on March 14. Many elected officials, healthcare providers and stakeholders were on-hand for the ceremony. The center is named after longtime Hampton Sheriff B. J. Roberts, who died in 2020.

The center, which is expected to open in December, will provide 16 residential crisis beds and will have 16 temporary seats for patients awaiting treatment.

Image & Stylez Salon (3130 Allainby Way) held a grand opening celebration on March 25. Mayor Donnie Tuck was on-hand to assist with the ribbon cutting. Image and Stylez Salon provides cosmetology, barber and nail services. Book your appointment today.