Celebrating beautiful music, local artistry, and tasty brews this holiday season.
HAMPTON ROADS, VA [October 21, 2025] The Virginia Symphony Orchestra, partnered with Elation Brewing will be hosting the 2nd annual “A Very Merry Musical Market” event this November. The event invites local artisans to be a part of a holiday market at Elation Brewing, that showcases not only Elation’s seasonal and classic brews but also the local artisans and the talented VSO musicians in a more casual setting beyond the standard concert hall.
Now in its second year, this event is part of the VSO’s SoundBridge series. This series reimagines where and how people experience orchestral music — pairing performances with creative community partners in nontraditional venues, expanding the public’s opportunities to meet the VSO musicians and witness their artistry.
“At Elation, it has always been a goal to have a community centered space where people can come and feel comfortable and celebrate life together,” said Elation Brewing CEO and Co-Founder Kenny Van Hook, “ We are long term fans of symphonic, orchestral, and chamber music and hosting events like this fit into not only our mission but jointly the mission of the SoundBridge program to connect with the community in news ways.”
Following the success of last year’s market, which drew hundreds of guests for an evening filled with music, shopping, and local flavors, this year’s event promises to be even more festive. Vendors this year include Parti Pups LLC, Coastal Virginia Weavers, WUBYS WINGS, Miss Wonderland’s Curiosities, Salt Bong Permanent Jewelry, SevenFlowers Boutique, Gaia’s Dreamwork Jewelry & Art, Salty Sun Club, and More.
“SoundBridge was created to connect the Symphony with the spirit of our region,” said VSO Manager of Leadership Giving, Brittiani Chamblee. “Partnering with Elation Brewing allows us to bring people together in a joyful, accessible way — celebrating not only great music, but also the local businesses that make Hampton Roads so vibrant.”
Tickets for A Very Merry Musical Market are $20 in advance and can be purchased by
visiting virginiasymphony.org or by calling 757.892.6366. Tickets will be $25 at the door.
Children 12 and under, $15. Tickets includes light snacks and one drink ticket. Additional alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. Elation Brewing is located at 5104 Colley Ave, Norfolk, VA 23508
Learn more about the event at https://virginiasymphony.org/event/a-very-merry-musical-market-2/
####
As the region’s most celebrated musical, educational, and entrepreneurial arts organization, the Virginia Symphony Orchestra continues to challenge expectations and push the boundaries of what an American orchestra can be. Innovation and excellence are at the heart of the VSO’s narrative. The VSO has received national attention for its unique mission serving a home area of 1.7 million across the diverse communities of southeastern Virginia. Through appearances at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall and its commitment to adventurous programming, the VSO and its musicians have been highlighted in the media including The New York Times, The Washington Post, National Public Radio, and BBC Worldwide News.
As the largest performing arts organization in southeastern Virginia, the VSO and VSO Chorus present more than 150 concerts and events annually for more than 100,000 residents and visitors. Since 2019, the VSO has been recognized nationally for striving to reflect the region’s ethnic and racial diversity in its members, programming, and leadership. The Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Fellowship Program for up to 4 early-career, underrepresented orchestral musicians work to advance the goal of increased diversity of orchestral musicians nationwide. This initiative is a continuation of the VSO’s commitment to creating extraordinary musical experiences with and for our entire community.
Celebrating his fifth year, Music Director Eric Jacobsen, The Macon and Joan Brock Chair, continues to expand the VSO’s vision to attract wider and larger audiences with engaging concert experiences and creative and relevant programming. Rounding out the artistic leadership team is Connie and Marc Jacobson Music Director Laureate JoAnn Falletta and Norfolk native Thomas Wilkins in the role of Principal Guest Conductor, reflecting the VSO’s commitment to tell its community’s stories and advance the important conversations that will promote understanding and belonging among all residents.
