5 Fabulous Festivals at Virginia Beach

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Beach destinations are perfect for lazy, relaxing, sun-drenched vacations; if that’s what you’re after, Virginia Beach delivers. But the city also loves to celebrate, and knows how to throw a party. The huge boardwalk and miles of sandy beach invite festivals and fun — and you’ll find plenty all year round in this lively beach town. Take a look at a few of the city’s finest festivals you won’t want to miss.

1. Sand Soccer Tournament and Beach Party

Each June since 1994, the wide Atlantic beaches have hosted an annual sand soccer tournament that the Tourism Society calls one of summer’s top 20 events. With an estimated 10,000 competitors and 35,000 spectators, the Virginia Beach oceanfront becomes one big sports celebration. Even if you’re not a soccer fan, there’s flag football, beach volleyball, fireworks, and celebrity guests —something for everyone. Book a Virginia Beach hotel further south, like the Barclay Towers Resort, if you want a little respite from the fun. The party goes all night long on the Boardwalk.

2. Blues at the Beach Festival

For 17 years, Virginia Beach has paid tribute to one of America’s favorite music genres with the Blues at the Beach bash. Local and national artists and bands perform one weekend each September, and vendors sell everything from soul food to crafts. The event is typically held at 17^th Street Park, right in the heart of the Boardwalk. Stay at the Dolphin Inn right next to the park so you can enjoy the music from your balcony if you don’t feel like navigating the crowds.

3. Hardee’s Latin Festival

This high-spirited celebration is Virginia Beach’s take on Miami’s famous Latin Festival. If you love salsa — both the condiment and the dance — you’ll love this weekend bash. Take salsa dancing lessons and twirl the night away under the stars. Enjoy fast-paced music from nationally recognized performers and browse the fabulous food vendors for an authentic Latin experience. Don’t miss the Saturday night Salsa Cruise featuring dancing, live entertainment, and an open bar.

4. Virginia Beach Neptune Festival

Celebrating the city’s unique beach culture, this September party is the pinnacle of all things Virginia Beach. There’s the Atlantic Regatta, the Sandsculpting Championship, Neptune’s 5K run, the Surf Classic — and don’t forget the Wine Festival! There’s something for everyone at this behemoth bash. You can feel good about partying at the Neptune Festival; it’s also a charitable event, giving over $100,000 a year to Virginia Beach charities. It’s easy to find Virginia Beach hotels right in the middle of the fun.

5. Oceana Air Show

Since 1953, the Oceana Air Show has been thrilling aviation enthusiasts with amazing displays by the Navy’s Blue Angels. If screaming fighter jets don’t get your adrenaline pumping, the parachute demonstrations and pyrotechnics will surely do the trick. The show also includes Kids Fest, with popular activities like face painting, bounce houses, and rock-climbing walls.

Whether you’re in Virginia Beach for a week or just a weekend getaway, you’ll likely find a festival to fill your afternoon. Are you a regular Virginia Beach visitor or resident with a few festival tips? Please share your favorite experiences in the comments below!

About Post Author

Abigail Clark

Abigail Clark is an upcoming freelance writer. She graduated from The University of South Florida with a bachelors in marketing, minoring in journalism. When she isn’t up to her neck in coupons she is enjoying the outdoors fishing. She loves doing reviews for technology, home products and beauty products. If you would like her to do a review for you look her up on twitter @downtownabby17.

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