Good morning, Hampton.

Seven dogs rescued from dangerous conditions are now safe at the Virginia Beach SPCA—staff provide veterinary care and shelter as they plan to place the animals in loving homes; some were rescued from a neglectful Maryland breeding facility while others were saved from a suspected dogfighting ring in Indiana.

Students in Virginia schools will soon face tougher SOL cut scores in reading and math after the Virginia Board of Education voted to raise the minimum passing scores—an effort to promote higher order thinking.

The new standards will be finalized on Oct. 24 and will affect tests that count for 10% of final grades for students in grades 7 through 12 starting in 2026-2027.

Government experts at Regent University and Old Dominion University said that if Congress fails to reach a budget deal by midnight Tuesday, essential workers will continue working though paychecks may be delayed—job reductions are unlikely to be permanent.

They explained that programs like Social Security, Medicare, and SNAP will remain safe while funding for WIC could face cuts, urging local government workers not to be caught in the crossfire.

The HillBenders Concert

7:30-9:00 PM — The American Theatre — No Refunds / No Exchanges — Experience the virtuosic sounds of Missouri's progressive bluegrass quintet.

Barktoberfest 2025

12-6 p.m. — Mill Point Park — Entry fee TBD — Celebrate fall with furry friends at this fun festival featuring music, food trucks, and a costume contest for pets and people.

Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid

2-5 PM — The American Theatre — Hot-Buttered Popcorn & an all-new Silver Screen — Experience classic screwball comedies and stirring dramas on the big screen.

Sing & Smile with Art Rowe

3-4 p.m. — Hampton Virginia Aquaplex — Free entry — Enjoy a delightful hour of acoustic tunes and sing-alongs with local Navy Veteran and guitarist Art Rowe.

Midnight Rain: Live Taylor Swift Tribute

8-11 p.m. — The Vanguard Brewpub & Distillery — Cost varies — Experience your favorite Taylor Swift tunes in an intimate setting with Midnight Rain.

For the Culture Wine RnB Festival

4-10 p.m. — Hampton Roads Convention Center — $60.54 — Sip and celebrate with fine wines and 90s R&B vibes in a chic atmosphere.

Hampton Roads Philharmonic: October Classics

2:00 – 3:30 PM — The American Theatre — Ticket info not provided — Experience the rich sounds of familiar and new composers in an unforgettable afternoon of classical music.

Classic Movie Night - The Birds

2-3:30 p.m. — The American Theatre — Admission fee applies — Enjoy hot-buttered popcorn as you immerse yourself in the classic film ‘The Birds’ on the big screen.

Troy Breslow Live Performance

8-10:30 p.m. — Victorian Station “The Big Pink” — Ticket Info Not Provided — Enjoy heartfelt tunes from Virginia's own singer-songwriter Troy Breslow as he captivates with his guitar and lyrics.

Hampton CVB Halloween Speedfest

5-6:30 p.m. — Larry King Law's Langley Speedway — Ticket prices vary — Experience an exciting night of spooky racing featuring sprints and mini cups.