January 2005 Events in Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Williamsburg and Hampton Roads

January 1 - 6
Holiday Whale Watching Boat Trips
A unique and memorable outing to see Virginia's coast and winter marine environment! Participants can see a variety of winter wildlife and intriguing birds including brown pelicans, Northern gannets and double-crested cormorants, all of which make a dramatic show of feeding on schooling fish. Local landmarks such as the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, DeWitt Cottage and the Old Guard Station can also be seen. Of course, the robust juvenile humpback and fin whales, the second largest whale species, are anticipated sightings. Whales sightings are not guaranteed. Daily, 1 pm. and 3:30 pm. Admission. Virginia Beach.

January 2
Olde Towne Scottish Walk
Modeled after Scotland's Hogmanay Festival, a day when townspeople honor their community and merchants and offer blessings for prosperity in the coming year. A procession led by pipe-and-drum bands. Enjoy walking, pipe music, caroling and mini-concerts at Olde Towne restaurants and pubs. Wear your warmest woolens and plaids and join in the fun. Starts at 3:30 p.m. at Queen and Washington streets in the parking lot of Monumental United Methodist Church and ends at High Street Landing. Portsmouth.

January 8
Emancipation Proclamation Observance
The museum celebrates this traditional African-American observance of the 1863 issuance of President Abraham Lincoln's historic document. Free. Noon to 2 pm. Newsome House, Newport News.

January 15
Chinese New Year at the Children's Museum
Chinese New Year has occurred for more than 4,000 years and is a time for feasting and visiting with friends and family. Commemorating this event is thought to bring luck, health, happiness and wealth in the coming year. Try on authentic Chinese costumes, make kites and Hui Chun banners, sing Chinese songs, learn about Chinese paper-cutting, write in Chinese and see Chinese art created. A traditional Lion Dance performed by local Chinese community members. Admission. 10 am to 4 pm. Children's Museum of Virginia, Portsmouth.

January 15
The Symphony Strikes Back ­ The Music of John Williams
The Virginia Symphony plays the best of John Williams. Music from Jaws, ET, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Jurassic Park, Schindler's List, the original Star Wars trilogy and the Indiana Jones films. Admission. 8 pm. Chrysler Hall, Norfolk.

January 21 - 23
Virginia Flower and Garden Show
Get a jump-start on gardening in 2005 with tips, forecasts and tools. Major landscape and floral displays provide gardeners with ideas to replicate in their own gardens. Educational classes from national and regional gardening experts are featured along with continuous show floor demonstrations. A European-style flower market, 125 vendors, plenty of hands-on activities for children and the annual flower show of the Virginia Federation of Garden Clubs Tidewater District offer something for everyone. Admission. Pavilion, Virginia Beach.

January 28 - 29
Hal Holbrook in "Mark Twain Tonight"
What started as a college honors project for aspiring actor Hal Holbrook has become the model for one-man theatrical performances. Admission. 8 pm. Ferguson Center for the Arts, Newport News.