City Nature Challenge 2026: Newport News
Discover the natural beauty of Newport News while contributing to global scientific research during the City Nature Challenge, taking place April 24–27, 2026. This international event invites residents of all ages to document local wildlife using the iNaturalist app, helping scientists better understand urban ecosystems.
Participants can explore at their own pace—whether in their backyard, neighborhood, or local parks—by photographing plants, animals, and insects and uploading their observations to the CNC 2026: Newport News project.
Special BioBlitz Events:
• April 24 (1–2 PM) – Riverview Farm Park (meet at the picnic shelters) for Newport News employees
• April 25 – Newport News Park Discovery Center
(Following Insects and Friends programs at 12–1 PM and 3–4 PM)
During these one-hour BioBlitz events, participants are encouraged to capture as many wildlife observations as possible and upload them in real time.
The City Nature Challenge is open to everyone, including individuals, families, school groups, and community organizations. It’s a fun and meaningful way to connect with nature, improve wellbeing, and contribute to important biodiversity research.
How to Participate:
Download iNaturalist → Join CNC 2026: Newport News → Start exploring
Learn more at www.citynaturechallenge.org
30th Annual Park Day at Historic Endview
Celebrate local heritage by giving back to one of Newport News’ most treasured historic sites. As part of National Historic Marker Weekend, Newport News Historic Services—alongside the American Battlefield Trust and the William G. Pomeroy Foundation—invites the community to participate in the 30th Annual Park Day at Historic Endview.
This meaningful volunteer event offers residents of all ages the opportunity to play an active role in preserving a vital piece of local history. Participants will assist with hands-on projects such as trail maintenance, mulching, and cleaning historic markers—helping ensure the site remains vibrant and accessible for future generations.
Event Schedule
What to Bring
Participants are encouraged to bring labeled work gloves and any gardening tools they may have. Water and light snacks will be provided throughout the morning.
Registration Details
Join us for a rewarding day of service, community connection, and historic preservation.
National Train Day Celebration at Lee Hall Depot
The annual Train Day Celebration at Lee Hall Depot returns on Saturday, May 9th, offering the Newport News community a unique opportunity to experience transportation history in an engaging and family-friendly environment.
From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, visitors can explore the important role railroads—and transportation as a whole—have played in shaping the region. The event blends education with interactive experiences, making it accessible and enjoyable for guests of all ages.
Live entertainment will be featured throughout the day, including a performance by the Runaway String Band from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM. The Chessie and Friends Puppet Show will take place at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, and guests will have several opportunities to meet Chessie during scheduled photo sessions.
In addition to performances, attendees can enjoy hands-on crafts, games, a train-themed bounce house, and a live, interactive railroad layout that offers an up-close look at model trains in motion. Community partners and local organizations will also be present, sharing insights into transportation history and providing educational resources. Supported by dedicated volunteers, the event creates a welcoming space for connection, learning, and community engagement.
Event Details
The Train Day Celebration continues to be a meaningful way to experience local history while enjoying a day of family-friendly activities at one of Newport News’ most historic sites.
The Shipyard Experience
Explore the history of Newport News Shipyard on a guided trolley tour led by a museum historian from Newport News Historic Services. While the shipyard itself is not accessible due to security restrictions, the tour visits key related sites including Huntington Avenue, the tugboat Dorothy, the Apprentice School Dormitory, Victory Arch and Victory Landing Park, the Yard District, and Hilton Village. Guests will learn about the shipyard’s founding, its role in 20th-century wars, and its impact today.
The tour begins and ends at the Virginia War Museum with free parking available. The climate-controlled trolley is wheelchair accessible but cannot accommodate car seats, and the tour is not recommended for children. Advance ticket purchase is encouraged, as pre-sales close at 3:00pm the day before the tour.
Click here to purchase tickets.
