Did you know that Labor Day has been celebrated on the first Monday in September in the United States since the 1880s when it was invented to observe and celebrate “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” of the community? Traditionally there is a parade followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the community’s workers and their families. And, here in Hampton Roads, we always have events sure to keep everyone in the group happy!
Portsmouth is sponsoring a Labor Day Weekend Sidewalk Sale which will be held along High Street from Effingham Street to the Elizabeth River. Bargain hunters get ready! You are such to find treasures among the variety of merchandise on sale. Location: High Street in Portsmouth. Time: Saturday the 1st. Fee: Free. Contact: 405-3500 or http://events.hamptonroads.com/event_details.cfm?e=6951

Also in Portsmouth, the Naval Shipyard Museum and Lightship Museum is having Pirates! The Exhibit. Come and learn the local history of piracy and enjoy pirate-themed activities. Additionally, join in on a treasure hunt and channel your own Jack Sparrow! Location: Naval Shipyard Museum, 2 High Street and foot of London Street at Water Street. Time: Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fee: Contact 393-8541

Yorktown is having its annual Labor Day Weekend Festival at Riverwalk Landing. You can say goodbye to Summer and welcome Fall while being entertained and fed well! There will be evening concerts and children’s activities – lots of fun for all. Location: 425 Water Street, Yorktown. Time: Friday-Monday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fee: Free. Contact: 890-3500. Pets Welcome.
Why not celebrate the end of summer through the last blooms of flowers at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens? As part of its America’s Garden program, the garden will feature one of the largest themed flower displays throughout its 155 acres. Additionally, on Saturday a WOW birthday celebration will include the Chick-fil-A cows and lots of other surprises – a great event for the family! Location: Norfolk Botanical Garden, Azalea Garden Road. Time: all weekend, Saturday is the birthday celebration. Fee: Adults $7.00, Seniors & Military $6.00, Children & Youth (3 – 18) $5.00. Contact: 441-5830 or http://www.norfolkbotanicalgarden.org/visitingnbg/index.shtml#hours

To wind down in a cool, quiet place why not stop by The Hampton History Museum? The museum is holding a lecture series about Port Hampton. It will feature authors, living historians, and local history buffs discussing Hampton’s past as well and related historical subjects of a regional and national flavor. Location: Hampton History Museum, 120 Old Hampton Lane. Time: Monday 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Fee: $3 per person for non-members. Museum members may enter for free. Contact: 727-1610

If you are in Chesapeake, I highly recommend attending the 13th annual Symphony Under the Stars with Fireworks! Music provided by the “Virginia Symphony Orchestra” will make a lovely conclusion of the 2007 Under the Stars Performance Series. Tidewater Pipes & Drums with assistance of Sheriff’s Pipe Band, opens the evening. Melodious patriotic sounds of our nation’s birth and growth in recognition of the 400th birthday of the landing at Jamestown, can be heard at twilight. For the wine lovers, The Chesapeake Friends of the Arts presents its Second Annual “Wine Tasting for the Arts” from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. This event is an official Jamestown 2007 Community program. Location: the “Buddy” Bagley Stage, Chesapeake City Park, 500 Greenbrier Road. Time: Sunday 5 p.m. Fee: Free. Contact: 382-6411 or http://www.visitchesapeake.com/upcoming.html

In Virginia Beach, Neptune’s Park is sponsoring the American Music Festival. Celebrate the end of summer by jamming out to great music and watching tide roll in. Location: Neptune’s Park at 31st Street. Time: Friday-Sunday; act times TBD. Contact 213-3001 or http://www.31ocean.com/Virginia-Beach-31-Ocean-Neptunes-Park/NeptunesPark.aspx

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