NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) – The mermaid city is celebrating its mascot’s birthday in a big way!
Norfolk’s mermaid turns 20 this year. In 1999, Norfolk attorney and philanthropist, the late Pete Decker, suggested the idea to adopt the mermaid as the city’s symbol. Since then, a sea of sculptures have made a splash across Norfolk, appearing everywhere from Downtown to the beach, of course.
There are several ways you can be a part of the shellabration. Print out this mermaid image and snap a “shellfie” with it in front of your favorite spots. Be creative. Take her with you wherever you go… on vacation, at a concert, or even in front of other mermaids. Then post the picture to social media using the #Mermaid20 and #NorfolkVA hashtags.
Children are encouraged to be a part of the party. The city created this mermaid coloring page they can color and hang at home and also share using the #Mermaid20 hashtag.
The Virginia Arts Festival is also holding a visual arts competition. This is your chance to create a two-dimensional mermaid of your own. A committee will select winners in two categories: youth ($250 cash prize) and adult, 18 years old and older, ($1,000 cash prize). All artists must have a tie to the Norfolk region to participate. The call for entries ends March 1. Click here for complete details.
