Newport News aims to invigorate downtown with a 2026 Memorial Day weekend music and culture festival.
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — The Newport News City Council has approved a $3.03 million grant to launch a major music and culture festival set for Memorial Day weekend in 2026.
City officials say the event is designed to boost downtown revitalization and spotlight the city’s future as a hub where technology, culture, and business intersect. The festival is expected to feature international musical acts, business and tech leaders, large-scale art installations, community workshops, and hands-on technology exhibits. Youth and community programming will take place both before and after the main Memorial Day weekend event.
Mayor Phillip Jones said the festival is part of the city’s plan to compete for regional tourism dollars, projecting more than $3 million in economic impact.
“By strategically investing in economic development, we are creating an event that highlights future projects in our city,” Jones said.
The city is partnering with the Port Warwick Foundation to oversee planning and with Global Music Touring, producer of large-scale festivals including Cousinz Festival, to manage production.
Organizers say the festival aims to bring together leaders in commerce, culture, and technology while showcasing internationally recognized musical artists, notable thought leaders from the worlds of business and technology, and community leaders from across the 757.
Additional details and a citizen advisory committee will be announced as planning continues.