Moving to a new neighborhood is always an exciting blend of discovery, curiosity, and adaptation. And if you’ve just arrived in the charming Ghent area of Norfolk, VA, you’re in for a treat. Ghent is one of the most beloved cultural hubs in Hampton Roads, marrying historic charm with modern creativity. Tree-lined streets, vintage homes, artisanal shops, and an endless list of local events make Ghent a community where there’s always something happening all year round.

Whether you’re an art lover, foodie, music fan, or someone who simply enjoys roaming local markets, this neighborhood offers an annual calendar full of memorable experiences. To get you started, we’ve compiled an in-depth look into Ghent’s most popular annual traditions and happenings—perfect for newcomers looking to immerse themselves in local life.

The Ghent Neighborhood Vibe

Before diving into the events, it’s worth appreciating what makes Ghent, Norfolk, so unique. This neighborhood is often described as the soul of Norfolk, where old-world architecture meets a thriving cultural scene. It’s not uncommon to walk past historic brick townhouses while hearing live jazz music spilling out of a nearby café or brewery. Art galleries, vintage boutiques, and family-owned restaurants line Colley Avenue and 21st Street, forming a lively corridor of activity that feels both modern and deeply rooted in history.

Ghent also offers a sense of community that’s rare in urban neighborhoods. Residents take pride in supporting local businesses and preserving the area’s historical beauty. Seasonal block parties, outdoor movie nights, and community cleanup events keep neighbors connected year-round. This sense of belonging extends to the annual events that continuously draw people from all over Norfolk and surrounding areas.

Annual Events That Define Ghent

The Stockley Gardens Arts Festival

This festival is one of Ghent’s defining annual celebrations. Every spring and fall, Stockley Gardens transforms into an outdoor art wonderland that showcases the talents of local and national artists. Hundreds of artists set up tents displaying everything from fine paintings and photography to ceramics, jewelry, and sculptures. Visitors stroll through the shaded park while enjoying live music, local food trucks, and craft beer vendors—a perfect mix of creativity and community.

What makes this event special is its charitable foundation. Proceeds from the festival directly benefit Hope House Foundation, which supports adults with disabilities in living independently. So when you visit, you’re not only enjoying fine art but also contributing to a meaningful cause.

For newcomers, this event is a wonderful way to meet artists, neighbors, and local volunteers who care deeply about the community. And since it happens twice a year, you’ll have more than one opportunity to experience it during your first year in Ghent.

The Ghent Pride Block Party

Celebrating inclusion and diversity, the annual Norfolk Pride Block Party in Ghent is one of the most colorful and energetic gatherings in the region. Typically held during Pride Month in June, this event fills Colley Avenue with live music, dance performances, parades, and countless smiling faces. Restaurants and bars get in the spirit by offering festive drinks, rainbow-themed desserts, and special discounts.

For those new to the area, attending the block party is one of the best ways to feel instantly connected. The energy is infectious, the people are welcoming, and the message of love and unity resonates throughout the neighborhood.

The Masquerade in Ghent

When the leaves start changing colors and crisp air fills the streets, Ghent celebrates one of its most iconic autumn events—the Masquerade in Ghent. Usually held in October, this street festival brings out Norfolk’s fun-loving and theatrical side. Locals dress up in elaborate costumes, dance to live music, and enjoy an evening of outdoor festivities under string lights and colorful banners.

The Masquerade isn’t only about dressing up—it’s also a chance to experience Ghent’s nightlife in full swing. Local pubs and eateries host themed parties, costume contests, and food tastings, making this evening one of fall’s most anticipated celebrations.

O’Connor Brewing Company Events

No mention of Ghent’s annual happenings would be complete without highlighting O’Connor Brewing Company. Known for its community-focused spirit, the brewery regularly hosts seasonal festivals such as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, Oktoberfest, and their own iconic O’ConnorFest. These events bring craft beer enthusiasts and families together for a day filled with live music, games, and local vendors.

The atmosphere here reflects Ghent’s casual yet spirited character—it’s a great place to mingle with locals and make friends over a pint of locally brewed ale. Even if you’re not a big beer drinker, the food vendors, artisan marketplaces, and music lineup are reason enough to attend.

Ghent’s Holiday Lights Extravaganza

Ghent transforms into a cozy winter wonderland during the holiday season. One of the most delightful experiences for newcomers is simply strolling through the neighborhood to see the elaborate decorations, twinkling lights, and festive storefronts. Many businesses on Colley Avenue and 21st Street decorate with intricate displays that attract passersby every evening in December.

In addition, nearby Downtown Norfolk hosts the Grand Illumination Parade, a major regional event that kicks off the holiday season with illuminated floats and marching bands. After the parade, many guests make their way to Ghent to continue the celebration with warm drinks, dinner, and a relaxed evening among friends.

Living Comfortably Year-Round

As wonderful as Ghent’s activities are, comfort at home is equally important. New residents often move into charming older houses that exude character but may require maintenance updates, especially when it comes to climate control systems. With Norfolk’s humid summers and cool winters, having a reliable air conditioning repair service can make all the difference in staying comfortable throughout the year.

Powell’s Plumbing & Air is known in the community for dependable and professional home service solutions. They specialize in helping residents handle everything from simple maintenance to complex air conditioning repair. The company’s team is deeply familiar with the needs of local homeowners, ensuring that both newcomers and longtime residents enjoy optimal indoor comfort while they explore all that Ghent has to offer.

Taking care of your air systems before summer arrives means you can fully enjoy those outdoor festivals, open markets, and evening gatherings without worrying about a malfunction when you return home. Whether it’s preventative maintenance or emergency repair, professional technicians from an air conditioning repair service keep homes running smoothly, allowing Ghent residents to focus on enjoying Norfolk life to its fullest.

Annual Food and Farmer’s Markets

Ghent is home to some of the area’s most beloved markets and food-related events. One standout is the Ghent Farmers Market, held on select weekends. The market features an array of local growers, bakers, coffee roasters, and artisans. It’s not just a shopping trip—it’s a community gathering. You can easily spend a morning chatting with local farmers, trying homemade pastries, and discovering new products from Norfolk’s small businesses.

In summer, local restaurants and cafés often participate in food-focused pop-up events and garden parties that celebrate seasonal produce and regional cuisine. These gatherings often include live music, tastings, and chef demonstrations, showcasing Ghent’s eclectic food scene.

Outdoor Experiences and Active Lifestyles

Ghent residents enjoy balancing city life with outdoor leisure. The nearby Elizabeth River Trail offers scenic biking and jogging paths that wind through the waterfront. It’s easy to make this part of your daily routine, with views of passing boats, murals, and park areas along the way.

Throughout the year, local organizations and fitness groups host charity runs, yoga-in-the-park classes, and outdoor wellness events. If you’re the type who enjoys connecting with nature while staying active, Ghent provides plenty of opportunities to do just that.

Many newcomers appreciate the sense of community in these gatherings. Whether you’re running for a cause or practicing mindfulness at a sunrise yoga session, you’ll quickly find yourself among supportive neighbors eager to make newcomers feel at home.

Summertime Fun and Festivals

Summer in Ghent brings the kind of vibrant street energy that captures the neighborhood’s spirit. Outdoor movie nights at Stockley Gardens are a cherished tradition. Families and friends gather on picnic blankets with snacks and beverages to watch beloved films under the stars.

Live music flows through the air almost every weekend, thanks to concerts hosted by local bars and venues. The entire neighborhood thrives on outdoor dining—porch cafés and beer gardens fill up as locals take advantage of warm evenings to socialize and enjoy Norfolk’s sea breeze.

For new residents, summer is also the perfect season to explore the historic architecture of Ghent. A leisurely walk through the neighborhood reveals beautifully preserved homes and tree-lined streets—it’s like stepping into a postcard.

Spring Blooms and Art Walks

Spring is one of the most beautiful times to be in Ghent. The area’s parks and gardens burst into color, and the community calendar comes alive again after winter. Beyond the Stockley Gardens Arts Festival, Ghent also hosts smaller art walks that invite local creatives to showcase their work in galleries and shops along Colley Avenue.

Cultural lovers will also appreciate the events at neighboring institutions like the Chrysler Museum of Art and the Virginia Opera, which often collaborate with Ghent businesses for special art-themed weekends. These collaborations show how interconnected Norfolk’s cultural and business communities are—making it easy for residents to engage in the arts without leaving their own backyard.

Winter Warmth and Community Spirit

While winter may be chillier, Ghent’s community spirit only grows warmer. Many restaurants host themed dinners and wine-tasting events to celebrate the season. Breweries introduce new stouts and winter ales, while coffee shops offer special cocoa and chai menus.

It’s common to see residents gathering indoors for trivia nights, painting workshops, and fundraising events. There’s an inviting coziness throughout the neighborhood that makes even cold nights feel bright.

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter—Ghent Always Has Something for You

Every season in Ghent presents unique opportunities to connect, celebrate, and explore. Whether it’s a bustling street festival, a quiet morning farmer’s market, or an arts event that transforms the park into a creative playground, newcomers never have to wonder how to fill their weekends.

What makes these experiences even more special is the people. Ghent’s strong sense of community ensures that even first-time visitors are welcomed like locals. Before long, new residents find themselves not just attending these events—but becoming part of the volunteer and planning efforts that sustain them.

Reliable Ghent, Norfolk AC repairs by the pros at Powell’s Plumbing & Air

If you’re new to Ghent and seeking trusted professionals for home comfort, Powell’s Plumbing & Air offers top-tier solutions designed for both efficiency and peace of mind. Their expertise in air conditioning repair ensures your home remains cool and energy-efficient during Norfolk’s warm months. As a reputable air conditioning repair service, Powell’s Plumbing & Air brings years of hands-on experience, transparent pricing, and a neighborly approach that fits perfectly with Ghent’s welcoming spirit.

From seasonal upkeep to complex system repairs, they understand what it takes to keep your living space comfortable year-round. 

Powell’s Plumbing & Air

1111 Boissevain Ave, Norfolk, VA 23507, United States

(757) 231-6323

https://callpowells.com/norfolk/