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Newport News Mayor looks to expand tourism through music

Mayor Phillip Jones announces plans for music festival

By: Bre Dorrian

Image of local concert from Visit Newport News.

On Jan. 11, The Virginian Pilot reported that Newport News City Mayor Phillip Jones stated in a City Council retreat that he is working on plans for a new music festival in the coming months to two years. 

The Virginian Pilot also reported that the intent behind the new event is to “bring in more tourism dollars and help local businesses.” 

3WTKR reported on Jan. 13 that this would be the “first-ever major music festival” for the city, stating that city leaders are “excited about bringing national musical talent to the area.” 

3WTKR also stated that city officials feel the event “will not only enhance local entertainment options but also boost tourism and support local businesses.”

Although plans are not finalized, city officials are not the only ones excited about these plans, local residents and Christopher Newport University (CNU) students are as well. 

Junior at CNU and frequent concert-goer Rachel Williams is especially interested in the prospect of a new music festival. Within the past year, Williams has attended seven concerts, all of which she traveled two or more hours for. 

“I’m excited to be able to experience something so exciting so close to CNU,” she said. “It’ll be so nice to have something in my own backyard.” 

Local resident Gage Miller expressed his own enthusiasm for the potential venue. 

“I think a new festival is a great idea,” Miller said. “Whenever I think of big festivals, I think Virginia Beach. It would be nice to have something to look forward to that’s a little closer to home. Plus, who doesn’t love going to music festivals with their friends?” 

Despite the excitement, Miller did express concern about potential traffic. “It’s great they’re trying to expand tourism, but I’m not looking forward to the traffic jams this will cause,” he said. “Getting on and off the highway is already a cluster here, I can’t imagine a giant festival is going to be of much help for that.” 

The city reported on June 14, 2024 that within the past year, Newport News was awarded the All-American City award by The National Civic League, “to celebrate the city’s work to actively engage residents in strengthening democracy through local action and innovation” according to the city’s website.

“This is an historic day in the City of Newport News, as the prestigious All-America City Award celebrates our innovative programs and dynamic residents, community leaders, businesses, nonprofits, and employees,” said Mayor Jones. 

Mayor Jones is the 27th elected mayor of Newport News and is the city’s youngest elected mayor. Before being sworn into office in Jan. 2023, he served on the Newport News Planning Commission. 

Since being elected, Mayor Jones has shown dedication to serving the residents of the community and expanding city engagement. Under his administration, the city has proposed three programs, including; Gun Violence Intervention Program, Youth Diversion/Youth Court and Community Assistance and Response (CARE). 

Plans are still under development for the logistics of the potential music festival, however community members are encouraged to continue to monitor city announcements for status updates.

Key Words: Music Festival, Newport News, Events, CNU Students, Virginia