Norfolk

Ghent, Norfolk Neighborhood

The Ghent Neighborhood League in Norfolk, Virginia, offers a pedestrian-friendly environment with easy access to amenities and services. With schools, supermarkets, and restaurants within walking distance, residents can enjoy a convenient lifestyle. The neighborhood's calm and tranquil streets provide a peaceful environment, while its proximity to around 10 parks makes it easy for residents to enjoy outdoor activities. With a variety of housing options, including apartments and single detached homes, Ghent Neighborhood League has something to offer for everyone. Whether you're looking for a cozy loft or a spacious four-bedroom house, this neighborhood provides a diverse range of housing options to suit your needs.

Ghent Neighborhood League offers a calm environment and will appeal to those who enjoy spending time in green spaces. Most areas in this part of Norfolk are reasonably quiet, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor. Finally, it is easy to access parks since there are a few of them nearby for residents to visit.

Highlights of Ghent

Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special

🎭 Naro Expanded Cinema

A beloved indie movie theater on Colley Avenue, the Naro Expanded Cinema has been a Ghent staple since 1936, drawing film enthusiasts for its eclectic mix of independent, foreign, and classic films in a charming, historic setting.

🌳 Ghent Dog Park

Located at the edge of Stockley Gardens, this popular off-leash dog park serves as a vibrant community hub where local pet owners gather and socialize amid Ghent's scenic, tree-lined streets.

🍽️ Colley Avenue Restaurant Row

Stretching along Colley Avenue, Ghent’s bustling restaurant row features a diverse array of cafes, bistros, and bars, making it the neighborhood’s go-to destination for delicious local eats and lively outdoor dining.

🏛️ Chrysler Museum of Art

Situated on the border of Ghent, this renowned museum boasts an impressive collection of fine arts and frequently hosts events, workshops, and a well-loved glass studio, adding a unique cultural flair to the neighborhood.

🚲 Elizabeth River Trail Access

Residents enjoy convenient access to the scenic Elizabeth River Trail, which runs along the waterfront and through Ghent, offering walkers, runners, and cyclists beautiful views and a healthy connection to nature.

Ghent

This October in Ghent

Things to do, events, and what's happening this month

October 2, 2026

Zoovies: Jurassic Park

Virginia Zoo • 5:00 PM–9:00 PM

This after-hours movie night is an easy nearby outing for Ghent residents, combining zoo trails, dinosaur-themed activities, food, merchandise, and a lawn screening of Jurassic Park. Bring blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy a family-friendly evening just a short drive or bike ride from the neighborhood.

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October 3, 2026

36th Annual Virginia Children’s Festival

Town Point Park • 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

Families from Ghent can make a convenient downtown day trip for more than 100 hands-on activities, cultural experiences, storytelling, music, dance, military demonstrations, and costumed characters. The festival is designed especially for children age 10 and younger and offers a lively, free community experience near the waterfront.

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October 16, 2026

NEON Nights

NEON District

NEON Nights offers Ghent residents a close-by evening of local art, performances, pop-up activations, gallery visits, and creative collaborations with neighborhood businesses. The intimate format makes it easy to explore at your own pace, grab dinner or drinks nearby, and discover Norfolk artists without committing to a large festival.

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October 17–18, 2026

Stockley Gardens Fall Arts Festival

Stockley Gardens, Ghent

This is the most hyper-local October event for Ghent residents, taking place in the neighborhood’s own tree-lined park. Browse paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, and other handmade work while enjoying food, music, and a relaxed community atmosphere that welcomes families, strollers, and dogs.

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October 23, 2026

Masquerade in Ghent

Colley Avenue, Ghent • 6:00 PM–10:00 PM

Ghent’s annual Halloween street party brings the neighborhood together for a costume contest, live music by Wonderland, children’s activities, food, and adult beverages. Residents can walk or bike to the event, participate as families or groups, and enjoy one of the area’s most distinctive community traditions.

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From the Neighborhood

Stories, updates, and things to know in Ghent

Know Your Neighborhood

Local characteristics and demographics for Ghent

Neighborhood Characteristics

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Demographics

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