Best Virginia Beach Festivals to Check out: Visitors Guide
The City of Virginia Beach is a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning beaches, lively boardwalk, and rich cultural scene. Each year, it hosts a plethora of outdoor festivals that draw visitors from all over the country. These outdoor festivals and events celebrate everything from music and art to food and local heritage, providing endless entertainment for residents and tourists alike. Whether you're a fan of live music, delicious cuisine, or unique arts and crafts, Virginia Beach's outdoor festivals offer something for everyone.
The city's beautiful coastal setting provides the perfect backdrop for these festivals, making each event a memorable experience. From the bustling atmosphere of the boardwalk to the serene beauty of the parks and waterfronts, Virginia Beach transforms into a festival paradise during the warmer months. With a wide range of events to choose from, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the diverse offerings of this dynamic city.
Best Virginia Beach Festivals to Check out: Visitors Guide
When planning a visit to Virginia Beach, choosing the right hotel is essential to making the most of your stay. The array of accommodations available caters to every type of traveler, whether you're seeking luxury, family-friendly amenities, or budget-conscious options. From beachfront resorts offering stunning ocean views to cozy boutique hotels nestled in quieter neighborhoods, Virginia Beach ensures that visitors find the after a day of exploring the area's numerous attractions. From lush maritime forests to serene riverfronts, the region's campgrounds provide a perfect backdrop for both relaxation and adventure, catering to everyone from seasoned campers to families looking for a unique vacation experience.
If you are looking to stay busy with unforgettable events, be sure to plan your trip to the oceanfront resort area of Virginia Beach for these special events. The following festival's many offerings guarantee there is something that everyone will enjoy from daily concerts to authentic food you will be immersed in so much fun at any of these Virginia Beach festivals.
List of Outdoor Festivals in Virginia Beach
Neptune Festival The Neptune Festival is one of Virginia Beach's most iconic events, held annually in late September. It features a variety of activities, including the popular Boardwalk Weekend with sand sculpting competitions, live music, a grand parade, and a wine festival. The festival celebrates the city's coastal heritage and brings together the community for a weekend of fun and entertainment around the 17th street park and blocks of the boardwalk surrounding.
2. East Coast Surfing Championships (ECSC)The ECSC is the second-longest-running surfing competition in the world, held annually in August. Besides showcasing the talents of top surfers from around the globe, the event also includes live music, beach volleyball, and a 5K run. The ECSC is a celebration of beach culture and attracts surf enthusiasts and spectators to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
3. Virginia Beach Wine FestivalThe Virginia Beach Wine Festival, held in October, is a favorite among wine lovers. Set against the scenic backdrop of the oceanfront, the festival features wine tastings from local and international vineyards, gourmet food pairings, and live entertainment. It’s an ideal event for those looking to relax and enjoy the finer things in life.
4. Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art ShowThis prestigious art show, organized by the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), takes place in June along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. The event features the works of hundreds of artists from across the country, offering a wide range of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. It's a must-visit for art enthusiasts and collectors.
5. Virginia Beach Street Food FestivalHeld in July, the Virginia Beach Street Food Festival is a culinary delight featuring food trucks and vendors offering a diverse array of street food from around the world. From gourmet burgers to exotic desserts, the festival provides a delicious journey through various cuisines, complemented by live music and family-friendly activities.
6. La Fiesta Virginia Beach is a popular Latin music and cultural festival held annually in Virginia Beach. This event celebrates Hispanic and Latin American culture through music, dance, food, and art. La Fiesta typically features live performances by renowned Latin artists, dance exhibitions showcasing traditional and contemporary dances from various Latin American countries, and a variety of food vendors offering authentic Latin cuisine.
The festival aims to promote cultural diversity and unity within the community while providing a festive atmosphere for attendees to enjoy. La Fiesta Virginia Beach attracts a diverse audience, including local residents and visitors from neighboring areas, who come together to experience the vibrant rhythms and flavors of Latin America.
Throughout the event, attendees can immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of the Latino community through music performances that span genres like salsa, merengue, bachata, reggaeton, and more. Dance enthusiasts can participate in workshops or simply enjoy watching skilled dancers showcase their talents on stage. The festival also serves as an opportunity to educate attendees about different aspects of Hispanic culture, from traditional crafts , colorful cultural costumes to modern art forms.
7. Beach Blanket Movie Series During the summer months, 17th Street Park hosts the Beach Blanket Movie Series, where the entire family can enjoy free outdoor movies. Attendees bring their blankets and lawn chairs to relax and watch family-friendly films under the stars.
8. Beach Music Cruise-In Held in May, this festival features live beach music performances and classic cars on display. It's a weekend of dancing and nostalgia, celebrating the sounds and styles of the beach music era around the 25th streets and park.
Virginia Beach's outdoor festivals are a testament to the city's vibrant community spirit and its ability to celebrate diverse interests. From music and art to food and wine, these events bring together people from all walks of life to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer. Each festival provides a unique experience, showcasing the creativity and enthusiasm of Virginia Beach's residents and visitors.
Whether you're a local or a tourist, attending these outdoor festivals is a fantastic way to experience the culture and charm of Virginia Beach. The city's picturesque settings, combined with the lively atmosphere of its festivals, create unforgettable memories and foster a sense of community and togetherness. So, mark your calendars and join in the celebrations that make Virginia Beach a top destination for festival-goers.
These parks in Virginia Beach serve as vibrant hubs for community gatherings and celebrations. From music festivals and movie nights to cultural celebrations and wine tastings, there's always something happening at 25th Street, 17th Street Park, and 31st Street Park. These events not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community and highlight the diverse cultural fabric of Virginia Beach. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, attending these festivals offers a fantastic way to experience the city's lively spirit and beautiful outdoor settings.
Music Festivals and Virginia Beach Events
Virginia Beach is a haven for music lovers, hosting a variety of music festivals each year that draw in crowds from all over. These events showcase a range of musical genres and feature performances by both renowned and emerging artists. Here are some of the key music festivals you can look forward to in Virginia Beach:
American Music FestivalHeld over Labor Day weekend, the American Music Festival is the largest outdoor music event on the East Coast. Taking place on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, the festival features performances by national, regional, and local artists across multiple stages. It spans various genres, including rock, jazz, country, and R&B, offering something for every music lover.
Virginia Beach Patriotic FestivalCelebrated over Memorial Day weekend, the Patriotic Festival honors the military and their families with three days of concerts, air shows, and military demonstrations. The event features performances by top country and rock artists, making it one of the largest patriotic celebrations in the region.
Virginia Beach FunkFest Beach PartyThis lively event celebrates the rich history and culture of funk music, taking place in August at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The FunkFest features performances by legendary funk bands, delicious food vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere that keeps the crowd dancing all night long. It’s a unique and energetic festival that highlights the contributions of African American musicians to the genre.
Neptune Festival’s Boardwalk WeekendWhile not solely a music festival, the Neptune Festival’s Boardwalk Weekend, held in late September, features multiple stages with live music performances. The festival spans various musical genres and includes local and regional bands, adding to the festive atmosphere of this iconic event.
Something in the Water FestivalCreated by Grammy-winning artist Pharrell Williams, the Something in the Water Festival is a multi-day music and cultural festival held in April. The event features a diverse lineup of artists across genres such as hip-hop, R&B, pop, and more. In addition to music, the festival includes art, culture, and wellness activities, making it a comprehensive cultural experience.
Virginia Beach Oceanfront Concert SeriesThroughout the summer, the Virginia Beach Oceanfront hosts a series of free musical performances at various outdoor venues, including the 31st Street Stage and the 24th Street Park. These concerts feature local and regional bands covering a wide range of genres, providing free entertainment for visitors and residents alike.
The Audacy Oceanfront Concerts Series is a series of live music events held on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. These concerts are organized by Audacy (formerly known as Entercom), a leading media and entertainment company, in partnership with local sponsors and venues. The series typically features a diverse lineup of musical performances across various genres, including rock, pop, country, and more.
Virginia Beach Patriotic Festival Celebrated over Memorial Day weekend, the Patriotic Festival honors the military and their families with three days of concerts, air shows, and military demonstrations. The event features performances by top country and rock artists and attracts thousands of attendees, making it one of the largest patriotic celebrations in the region. The Memorial Day Weekend Salute in Virginia Beach, also known as the Patriotic Festival, is a significant annual event that honors the military and their families. Held over the Memorial Day weekend, this festival features a combination of concerts, military demonstrations, air shows, and various family-friendly activities, all aimed at celebrating and showing appreciation for the armed forces. One of the most popular attractions is the air show, featuring thrilling performances by military aircraft. This can include flyovers, aerobatic maneuvers, and demonstrations by elite flying teams such as the Blue Angels or Thunderbirds.
The festival hosts performances by top country, rock, and pop artists, attracting thousands of attendees. These concerts are a major highlight and are usually held at outdoor venues along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.American Music Festival Held over Labor Day weekend, the American Music Festival is the largest outdoor music event on the East Coast. It takes place on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront and features performances by national recording artists, regional, and local bands across multiple stages. The festival spans various genres, including rock, jazz, country, and R&B, offering something for every music lover. The 31st Street Parks is one of the main stages for this festival, featuring live shows by national, regional, and local artists across various genres.
Virginia Beach FunkFest Beach Party This lively event celebrates the rich history and culture of funk music, taking place in August at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. The FunkFest features performances by legendary funk bands, delicious food vendors, and a vibrant atmosphere that keeps the crowd dancing all night long. It’s a unique and energetic festival that highlights the contributions of African American musicians to the genre.
Virginia Beach’s festivals are a testament to the city's dynamic and diverse cultural scene. From the massive American Music Festival to the genre-specific FunkFest, there’s something for everyone. These festivals not only bring world-class entertainment to the city but also create a sense of community and celebration. Whether you're into rock, funk, country, or hip-hop, Virginia Beach offers a festival experience that will leave you wanting more. So, tune into the rhythms of this vibrant coastal city and enjoy the musical delights that Virginia Beach has to offer year-round.
