The Virginia Beach Neptune Festival is a vibrant and dynamic celebration that showcases the best of what the coastal city has to offer. As one of the most anticipated events of the year, the festival promises a diverse array of activities, performances, and attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. With a rich history and a stunning oceanfront location, the festival is a must-visit event for anyone looking to experience the cultural heartbeat of Virginia Beach.
Activities and Attractions
The Virginia Beach Neptune Festival offers a wide range of activities and attractions that span the entire length of the boardwalk. According to the organizers, this year's festival will include daily concerts featuring a lineup of over 20 performances from local, regional, and national artists. These concerts will take place across multiple stages set up along more than 30 blocks of the boardwalk.
Neptune Festival Grand Parade (Saturday, September 28)
The Grand Parade is one of the major highlights of the festival. This event is renowned for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, marking the culmination of the summer beach season with a spectacular Grand Finale weekend. The parade features over 100 entries and takes place between 16th and 32nd Streets on Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
Thousands of spectators line the streets to witness the colorful floats, larger-than-life balloons, and costumed characters. Among the parade participants are numerous pirates and King Neptune XLIV with his Royal Court, who march through the 16 city blocks from 11:30 am to 1 pm. The parade also boasts numerous marching bands and music, ensuring a festive and engaging experience for all attendees. Additionally, there are plenty of giveaways for the crowd, adding to the fun.
Neptune's International Sandsculpting Championship (September 27-October 6)
Another festival's standout event is the sandsculpting championship, where magnificent sand sculptures crafted by world-renowned sculptors will be on display. The competition is housed in a large tent to protect the artwork from the elements and provide an optimal viewing experience. The tent will be open to the public on Friday, September 27 – Saturday, September 28, from 9 am to 11 pm, Sunday, September 29, from 9 am to 9 pm, and Monday, September 30th – Sunday, October 6, from 10 am to 6 pm.
Admission is $7 per person, cash only, with children 12 and under admitted free. Additionally, free sand clinics will be offered on the beach at 6th Street on September 28 and 29, providing hands-on learning experiences with master sculptors.
Additional Activities
Visitors can also look forward to the Art & Craft Fair, which will feature over 200 artisans showcasing their handmade creations. Neptune & Namaste, located on the beach at 5th Street, offers a healthy haven for visitors. Start your day with a free yoga session on the beach or join family-friendly fitness events like Free Boardwalk Barre, Beach Bootcamp, HIIT, and dance classes instructed by locals. Other activities include Neptune's 8k Race, a Volleyball Tournament, the Atlantic Regatta, Neptune’s Surfing Classic, DockDogs competition, and a Youth Art Show.
Poseidon’s Playground (September 27-29)
The ultimate kids' zone, free and open to the public, offers non-stop fun for the whole family. Located at Virginia Beach Oceanfront's 17th Street Park, this vibrant area features a plethora of activities suitable for kids of all ages. Families can enjoy a variety of games, including cornhole, giant Jenga, connect four, chess, and checkers. Additionally, there are opportunities to unleash creativity with painting sessions at The Mermaid Factory and enjoy entertainment from magicians, face painters, balloon artists, and more throughout the weekend.
Ticket Prices
The Neptune Festival is mostly free to the public, with certain events like the International Sandsculpting Championship and Neptune’s Surfing Classic requiring an entrance fee.
Location and Infrastructure
The Virginia Beach Neptune Festival takes place along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, spanning from 1st to 33rd Streets on the boardwalk. Virginia Beach is easily accessible from major cities in the region, including Norfolk and Chesapeake, both of which are less than 30 minutes away by car. The festival's location on the picturesque Atlantic coastline also offers visitors the opportunity to explore nearby attractions such as the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and First Landing State Park.
History of the Festival
The Neptune Festival was founded in 1974, making 2024 its 50th anniversary. Over the past five decades, the festival has grown significantly in size and scope, evolving from a local celebration to a nationally recognized event. Each year, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors who come to enjoy the festivities. The festival has been honored with numerous accolades, such as being named one of the top 100 festivals in the United States and one of the top 10 festivals by the Southeast Tourism Society.
