Cousinz Festival Returns to Norfolk with Big Names and Bigger Purpose

What started as a hometown idea is now a full-blown movement. Cousinz Festival is back in Norfolk this year, bringing national talent, local flavor, and a strong sense of purpose to the 757.

Clipse member and Grammy-nominated artist Pusha T, one of the festival’s founders, summed it up: “We had an idea for our hometown, and it really came to life.” Last year’s inaugural event set the tone, but this year’s lineup and programming prove that Cousinz isn’t just here to party—it’s here to stay.

This year’s headliners bring the heat. Jeezy will perform his iconic TM 101 album live, which is something fans have been hoping to see for years. Rap legend Lil’ Kim and the always high-energy T-Pain will set the stage for a night full of unforgettable throwbacks and crowd favorites.

The lineup doesn’t stop there. Backyard Band will bring the go-go, and DJs like Boof, Diamond Kuts, Izzy the DJ, DJ DC, and Been Blackin will keep the energy going all day long. Hosting duties will be handled by comedian Chico Bean and radio personality Dominique Da Diva, bringing humor, energy, and a hometown feel to the stage.

While the music draws the crowds, the mission is what makes Cousinz different. Co-founder Fam-Lay made it clear: “Cousinz is bigger than music—it’s about community engagement.”

Last year, the festival partnered with local businesses to make a tangible difference, including awarding scholarships to five Norfolk State University students and working with Dominion Energy to renovate a local resident’s home. This year, that commitment continues with a series of community-focused events and initiatives.

The weekend begins with the Cousinz Community Engagement Kick-Off Conversation on Friday, April 25, in partnership with The Waterside District. Held at The Market at Waterside at 4 p.m., the event features a panel with festival co-founder Fam-Lay, Antonio Dowe of Cousinz Festival, Sean Washington of the City of Norfolk, and Suyapa Marquez of Dominion Energy. A mixer will follow from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., giving attendees a chance to connect and collaborate.

Festivalgoers will also be eating well. The Stormy Blue Food Truck Experience offers a variety of delicious options from local vendors.

From top-tier performances to real community impact, Cousinz Festival is shaping up to be one of the summer’s most meaningful events. It’s a celebration of Norfolk, of music, of culture—and of the idea that when family and community come together, big things happen.

Ready to be part of the Cousinz experience? Tickets are available now on the official Cousinz Festival website and at select local venues around Norfolk. You can opt for general admission or go all out with VIP tickets, which include perks such as early entry, exclusive merchandise, and access to a private lounge.

The main event goes down at Scope Arena, right in the middle of downtown Norfolk. Doors open in the afternoon, and the party keeps rolling late into the night. If you’re driving, you’ll find parking garages close by, but catching a rideshare might save you some stress. Trust us —getting there early is your best bet if you want to soak it all in.

With community events, pop-ups, and an insane food truck lineup, a lot is happening beyond the stage. If you’re coming from out of town, Norfolk’s got you covered with great hotels, restaurants, and plenty to see and do. Even if you’re local, this is the kind of weekend that makes your city feel brand new.