Labor Day weekend, as the unofficial end of summer, indicates a number of “lasts” each year.
It’s the last unofficial weekend before most people have to go back to school. It’s the last chance for a big family gathering, barbecue or picnic. It’s the last time to get away for some rest and relaxation.
And, this year, for those in Newport News and Hampton, it marks the last chance to take in two major museum exhibits. That is, of course, in addition to other events in the area.
At the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News, Sept. 1-3 are the final three days of the “Destination: Dinosaur!” exhibit. The annual exhibit features animatronic dinosaurs and seven dinosaur-themed experiences.
The museum is open daily from 9 a.m-5 p.m. The cost of admission for the museum is $15 for children and $20 for adults, which covers the dinosaur exhibit.
Also in Newport News, the last scheduled hayrides of the year at Newport News Park are set for Sept. 1 at 7 a.m., 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. Meet at the campsite office 30 minutes before the ride for complimentary tickets (space is limited).
The last-chance theme also hits the Hampton History Museum as its “Pirates, Privateers & Buccaneers” exhibit also closes Sept. 2. It has been on loan from the South Carolina State Museum. It delves into the history of pirates, including the story of Blackbeard. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday. It is closed Labor Day. Cost of admission is $4-$5.
But there are many more options to explore this weekend, some of which are highlighted below.
Other events in Newport News on Labor day weekend
Peninsula Fine Arts Center: $1 admission runs through Sept. 2.
Mariners’ Museum and Park: $1 admission continues through Labor Day. (Regular general admission prices range from $8.95-$13.95.) Through end of September, $5 admission with non-perishable food donation. Hours on Sept. 1-3 are 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Aug. 30: Farmers Market at City Center, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Sept. 2: Bird walk at Newport News Park, 7 a.m. Meet in picnic area parking lot.
Note: For a more complete list, click here.
Other events in Hampton on Labor Day weekend
Aug. 30: Showing of the movie “Wonder” in Carousel Park. Free. A disc jockey will be on hand at 6 p.m., and the movie is scheduled to start at dusk. Food vendors will be on hand.
Sept. 1-2: “Bass Center XI: Return to the Mothership” is set for the Hampton Coliseum. It’s an electronic dance music concert featuring Bassnectar, Barclay Crenshaw, Hatcha, Ana Sia, Noisia Stylust and ill-esha. The cost of a two-day ticket is $120. Show time is 7 p.m., with gates opening at 6. You must be 18 or older to attend. Note: There is a pre-party Aug. 31 at the NorVa in Norfolk, but Bassnectar will not be performing that night. Doors open at 8, with the show scheduled to start at 9. Tickets are $28, and again, you must be 18 or older. The musical lineup consists of Noisia, Hatcha, Stylust, Ana Sia and Brightside.
Sept. 1: Buckroe Beach Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sept. 1: Langley Speedway (Thomas Nelson Community College night). Scheduled to run are Twin Modifieds, Super Streets, Twin Pro Six, UCars and Karts. Races start at 7 p.m., with qualifying earlier in the day. Tickets from $5-$12.
Sept. 1: Kaboombox (a cover band) at Brown Chicken Brown Cow, 9:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
Sept. 1-2: Oozlefinch Brewery, which is located on Fort Monroe, will be celebrating its second anniversary with an “Oozleversary Party” from 11 a.m.-midnight Saturday and Sunday. There will be live music, food trucks and more.
Sept. 2: Groovin by the Bay, Buckroe Beach and Park, featuring the Rhondels, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Hosted by K’Bana Blaq.
Note: For a complete list, click here.
