Nestled in the area between the Appalachian Mountains and the Atlantic Ocean is the commonwealth of Virginia, one of the oldest states in the country. The Colony of Virginia was established in 1603 by the London Company, the first English settlers in the state. Throughout the history of the state, Virginia has been there for all the important events in America’s early history, such as fighting in the revolution and the Civil War. Their culture has been popularized in the entire country by many of the state’s most important figures, like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson, as well as through a myriad of literature documenting its past. There is even a myriad of historic hotels that showcases this history. Part of Virginia’s culture is festivals. Every city usually hosts its own fair, on top of which there are tons of music and performing arts festivals. If you’re looking to take part in one of their many gatherings, here are some of the most popular festivals in Virginia, USA
1. Virginia International Tattoo
Known as the largest spectacle of might and music, the Virginia International Tattoo is for the fans of music and the military. Showcasing some amazing military bands in an outstanding display of drums, pipes, and maneuvers, this festival has a little something for everyone. Watch the orchestras and bands or the dancers and drill teams that move along to the marching tune. There will be 1000 performers from eight countries showcasing themes of patriotism and honor.
Virginia International Tattoo
Address: Norfolk, Virginia, USA
Website: Virginia International Tattoo
Takes Place: April to May
2. Norfolk Haborfest
For three days in the town of Norfolk, the waterfront turns into the ultimate place to be. Featuring tons of rides and games, Norfolk Haborfest is an outdoor extravaganza that is perfect for the whole family. There are activities on the sea, land, and air so head out to this celebration and check out the cool shops, tasty food, fireworks, games, and all kinds of entertainment.
Norfolk Haborfest
Address: Town Point Park, Norfolk, Virginia, United States
Website: Norfolk Haborfest
Takes Place: June
3. Virginia Highlands Festival
Virginia Highlands Festival has been around since 1943, and it has been a part of the landscape of Virginia and Abingdon for generations. The purpose of the festival is to preserve the culture and the people’s heritage in Southwest Virginia. By showcasing local art from the people of the region, this event is a good time to hang out and see some of the things residents make and are passionate about. Abingdon is a historic part of the state - having been chartered in the 1700s - so exploring the festival and the town is both a fun history lesson and a look into the culture of Southwest Virginia.
Virginia Highlands Festival
Address: Barter Square-Abingdon, Virginia
Website: Virginia Highlands Festival
Takes Place: July
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4. Historic Garden Week
With a place as historic as Virginia, you can bet that there are tons of great attractions to check out around the state. One event you might not know about is Historic Garden Week. Each spring, visitors explore some of Richmond’s historic gardens, homes, and landmarks that make the city unique. The event lasts over a week in April and showcases some of Virginia’s most beautiful spring colors. The event has been going on since 1924, making the event itself pretty historic.
Historic Garden Week
Address: 12 East Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23219
Website: Historic Garden Week
Takes Place: April
Price: 25 - 55 USD
5. Norfolk NATO Festival
Norfolk NATO fest honors NATO and its member countries, and it is also an important part of Norfolk history. Since 1953, the central command of NATO established its base in the city of Norfolk. The festival has been an ongoing party ever since then. For over 50 years, this celebration has been a military showcase for NATO’s member states, while also providing an opportunity for people to get a glimpse of the military prowess of other countries. The purpose of the festival is to have a cultural exchange, maintain peace in the world, and to show off some of the best of Virginia.
Norfolk NATO Festival
Address: Downtown Norfolk, VA, United States
Website: Norfolk NATO Festival
Takes Place: April to May
6. Old Fiddlers Convention
For over 200 years, the fiddle has been a part of the culture of not only Virginia but also the south. It is as much a part of the landscape as anything else, and so is the Old Fiddlers Convention, one of the biggest conventions around. Whether you play or you like to listen, this fun celebration is a weekend full of fiddles and great music. The convention has been going on for over 84 years, and it features competitions as well as fun and family-friendly activities. Camp on-site or simply buy a ticket for the day and enjoy the festivities.
Old Fiddlers Convention
Address: 601 S. Main St, Galax, Virginia 24333
Website: Old Fiddlers Convention
Takes Place: August
7. Hot Air Balloon Rally
Fall Balloon Festival in Morgantown WV. One of our pilots is flying.
Posted by Balloons Over Rockbridge - VA on Sunday, 27 October 2019
Located in the town of Rockbridge in Lexington, the Hot Air Balloon Rally is exactly what it sounds like. Enjoy taking to the skies in one of the oldest methods of air transportation - the hot air balloon! The organization that runs this festival gives all the proceeds to local charities, so not only is it a fun time but it is also for a good cause. Check this out for a full day of music and food, perfect for the whole family. Of course, while you’re here, maybe take a trip on one of the many, on-site hot air balloons.
Hot Air Balloon Rally
Address: 487 Maury River Rd, Lexington, Virginia 24450.
Website: Hot Air Balloon Rally
Takes Place: July
8. Chautauqua Festival
Wytheville might be a small town in Virginia, but it is a place that is passionate about art. The art committee of Wytheville was formed in 1985 and since then they have been hosting art festivals throughout the town. The festival’s organizers aim to promote local artists in many different kinds of mediums, like music and crafts, as well as more traditional mediums like paint. This is one of Wytheville’s most anticipated events, so be sure not to miss it.
Chautauqua Festival
Address: Elizabeth Brown Park, 250 S 4th St Wytheville, VA, United States
Website: Chautauqua Festival
Takes Place: July to August
9. Pungo Strawberry Festival [Last event in 2019]
Who doesn’t love strawberries? Pungo Strawberry Festival is held every year and has been part of the Virginia Beach community since 1985. The yearly event is pretty popular, attracting over 80,000 people every year and growing from only 5,000 during its first year. Naturally, the event is centered around strawberries and the strawberry harvest, but there are tons of great, family-friendly activities at this country-style fair. Enjoy pony rides, arts and crafts, a host of activities, and even a parade.
Pungo Strawberry Festival
Address: 1776 Princess Anne Rd K, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, United States
Website: Pungo Strawberry Festival
Takes Place: May
10. Ella Fitzgerald Music Festival
Known as the “First Lady of Music”, the legendary Ella Fitzgerald is an absolutely iconic artist in the world of jazz, R&B, and blues. She was one of the most successful female artists in the world, and she is absolutely deserving of a music festival dedicated to her work and the sound she brought to the world. The fact that she was also born in Newport News makes the town the best candidate for hosting the event. Set in her hometown, the festival brings in various artists to perform her music, which is great for fans and music enthusiasts alike.
Ella Fitzgerald Music Festival
Address: 2410 Wickam Avenue, Newport News, VA. 23607
Takes Place: April
11. Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
Held every year during the spring months, Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is a fun, family-friendly festival where you’ll probably end up going home with tons of apple-based goodies. But even if you’re not there for the apples, there are still tons of other activities like live band performances, a 10k race, parades, and even a couple of celebrity appearances. Nestled in the historic area of Frederick County, Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is a wholesome, country-style fair.
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
Address: 135 N Cameron St, Winchester, VA 22601, United States
Website: Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
Takes Place: April to May
12. Stars & Stripes Explosion
What is more American than the fourth of July? Just like so many other cities and towns across the United States, there are always celebrations going on on this day. Why not head to the Virginia coast and party at Virginia Beach this Fourth of July to catch a fireworks show? Stars & Stripes Explosion is a celebration of all things U.S.A, with a free fireworks show and lots of free music performances right by the water.
Stars & Stripes Explosion
Address: Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Takes Place: July 4
13. East Coast Surfing Championships
East Coast Surfing Championships is one of the biggest festivals and events in the entire state. Whether you’re into surfing or you’re a surfer yourself, this is the second, longest-running surfing competition in the world. It first started back in 1963, when a bunch of surfers and teens threw a beach party at Virginia Beach. Everyone has been coming back ever since to party and surf. Amateurs and pros come by to compete, and over 100,000 people come to watch.
East Coast Surfing Championships
Address: Virginia Beach Oceanfront; Virginia Beach; Virginia; United States.
Website: East Coast Surfing Championships
Takes Place: August
14. Oceana Air Show
Posted by NAS Oceana Air Show on Sunday, 22 September 2019
For fans of aviation and the Air Force, Oceana Air Show is a perfect way to spend some time checking out the latest and greatest in military aviation. Held at the Naval Air Station in Virginia Beach, there are tons of cool events to enjoy here, like air shows and parachute displays. There are are also a host of land vehicles that guests can come to check out, including trucks and other military and civilian vehicles.
Oceana Air Show
Address: Naval Air Station, Oceana Dam Neck Annex, Virginia Beach, United States
Website: Oceana Air Show
Takes Place: September
Price: 4 - 60 USD
15. Richmond Folk Festival
Folk music and art is a part of Virginia culture, and it has been around since people started settling in the area. Richmond Folk Festival has been going on for over 15 years, and it celebrates the roots and richness of American folk music and musicians from Virginia. The three-day festival is now one of the largest events in the state, bringing in visitors from all over the U.S. Enjoy some food, traditional dance, and tons of great music.
Richmond Folk Festival
Address: 139 Virginia St, Richmond, VA, United States
Website: Richmond Folk Festival
Takes Place: October
Price: Free
16. Shenandoah Valley Music Festival
Started in 1963, Shenandoah Valley Music Festival starts in mid-July. Organized as a way to bring symphonic music to the people of Virginia, the genres presented here have grown to expand into bluegrass, blues, country, folk and, hip-hop. If this is your kind of music, you should definitely check this out. The concert ground is located on the former site of Orkney Springs Hotel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival
Address: Shrine Mont, Orkney Springs, Virginia, United States
Website: Shenandoah Valley Music Festival
Takes Place: June to September
17. American Music Festival
Ongoing for 25 consecutive years, American Music Festival is held on the beachfront every labor day weekend. The festival has been going on for so long that they’re expanding their lineup to include a few more days of fun. This is your standard music festival with tons of great local bands, as well as some big-name performers. Some names that have appeared at American Music Festival include ZZ Top, Journey, The Beach Boys, and Hall & Oates just to name a few. Best of all, a portion of the profits made from the festival go to charitable institutions.
American Music Festival
Address: Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Virginia
Website: American Music Festival
Takes Place: Usually held August to September
18. Neptune Festival
Virginia Beach is one of the most beautiful spots in the state, so there’s no doubt that you can find some pretty amazing festivals around the area. Neptune Festival is located along the boardwalk, so you’ll have tons of options nearby for food and entertainment. There are daily concerts and offerings located over 32 blocks of the boardwalk, plus 27 different performance spaces. Enjoy a weekend of great music from local and international artists, browse through artisanal stalls showing off over 250 pieces or crafts and art. Enjoy a boat show, live music performances, an 8k race, and volleyball tournament.
Neptune Festival
Address: Courtyard by Marriott Virginia Beach, Oceanfront/North 37th Street, Virginia
Takes Place: Usually held in September
19. Miles of Lights
Festivals and celebrations aren’t only relegated to the spring and summer months. There are also a lot of great activities and gatherings during the winter too, like 100 Miles of Lights. Aimed at promoting holiday events for the people of Virginia, 100 Miles of Lights has some pretty elaborate light shows and holiday events in a few cities across the state like Richmond, Williamsburg, Norfolk, and Newport News. Drive on by and take in the view, or get up-close and personal and catch a glimpse of the lights to feel a sense of whimsy.
100 Miles of Lights
Address: Richmond, Williamsburg, Newport News, Hampton, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach.
Website: 100 Miles of Lights
Takes Place: November to January
Price: Free
20. Holiday Lights at the Beach
If you’re around the Virginia Beach area and are looking for a little holiday cheer this season, then Holiday Lights at the Beach is just the spot. Continuing on the trend of holiday light spectacles, the Virginia Beach boardwalk becomes a holiday wonderland with lights, music, and art installations, as well as a 40-foot Christmas tree that lights up the night sky. If you have kids, don’t forget to plan a visit to Santa and grab a picture with Saint Nick.
Holiday Lights at the Beach
Address: Virginia Beach Boardwalk, Virginia Beach, VA, USA
Takes Place: November to January
Price: Free
21. FloydFest
FloydFest is a popular music and arts festival that you perhaps have never heard of. The five-day event began in 2002, and it has camping on-site, as well as a host of stages playing a variety of music in different kinds of genres - rock, bluegrass, folk, reggae, cajun, Yiddish, and African. The festival is more than just music, as a significant portion is dedicated to art and workshops. This includes morning yoga lessons, storytelling, and poetry readings. For those traveling with kids, there is also a “Children’s Universe Tent” that features a new theme every year.
FloydFest
Address: Blue Ridge Mountains, Floyd, Virginia
Website: FloydFest
Takes Place: July
Price: 30 - 185 USD
22. HoustonFest
HoustonFest is a yearly event that brings the people of Galax, Virginia together in support of a good cause. Named after a young local named Houston Caldwell who passed away in April 2010, this yearly festival is held in his memory. Celebrating Houston Caldwell’s passion for music and his legacy in the local music scene, his spirit lives on at HoustonFest. This festival focuses on music, and there are tons of performances and people selling their craft and wares. The purpose is mostly for non-profit, with proceeds going to scholarships and local music programs, as well as to the Galax Volunteer Fire department.
HoustonFest
Address: 601 S Main St, Galax, VA 24333, United States
Website: HoustonFest
Takes Place: June
Price: 30 - 70 USD
23. Richmond Jazz and Music Festival [Last event in 2019]
Coming in for the 12th annual jazz festival is Richmond Jazz and Music Festival. Celebrating all things jazz and funk, this festival is home to tons of great artists both local, national, and international. The event celebrates all kinds of music, so if jazz is not your thing, there are blues, r&b, and hip-hop as well. Come celebrate one of Richmond’s most popular festivals and get a little funky.
Richmond Jazz and Music Festival
Address: 1700 Hampton St, Richmond, VA 23220, United States
Website: Richmond Jazz and Music Festival
Takes Place: August
24. Virginia Film Festival
Photo by Eze Amos
Posted by The Virginia Film Festival on Thursday, 7 November 2019
Virginia Film Festival is hosted by the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, and it aims to bring some thoughtful, insightful, and inspiring movies to the public and to the students and faculty of the University of Virginia. Those who enjoy a good movie should come, as the festival brings in some pretty big names, both in terms of movies and people attending. Guests like academy-award winner Ethan Hawke and best-selling author John Grisham have been guests at previous iterations of this event.
Virginia Film Festival
Address: Graduate School of Arts & Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA
Website: Virginia Film Festival
Takes Place: October
25. Roosterwalk
Posted by Rooster Walk on Tuesday, 25 June 2019
Roosterwalk Music and Arts Festival is another festival that was born from tragedy. It was spawned from the passing of the organizer’s two best friends, Edwin “The Rooster” Penn and Walker Shank, both of whom passed away in their 20s. Created with the idea that every minute is precious, this festival is all about having a good time. Hosted on a large plot of land known as “Pop’s Farm” the yearly Roosterwalk offers great food on-site, as well as art installations and places where people can buy souvenirs and goodies.
Roosterwalk
Address: 675 Hobson Rd, Martinsville, Virginia 24054
Website: Roosterwalk
Takes Place: May
Price: from 10 USD
26. Caledon Art and Wine Festival
Combine the two greatest things in life - wine and art - and you’ll have Caledon Art and Wine Festival. This takes place in King George, Virginia and is a small, local festival that is getting more and more popular by the year. Virginia is actually home to many local wine producers, so what better way to try out some Virginia-made wine than to get a taste of it at this festival? You’re sure to have a good time seeing some local art and sipping some local wine!
Caledon Art and Wine Festival
Address: 11617 Caledon Rd, King George, VA 22485, United States
Website: Caledon Art and Wine Festival
Takes Place: November
Price: Free
27. Red Wing Roots Music Festival
If you’re looking to head out of town and get into nature a little bit but you still want to enjoy some great music, eat great food, and meet great people, then Red Wing Roots Music Festival is the event for you. This festival is looking to go all out and give people the full benefit of a true festival experience. Going on its seventh year, this event offers a lot to love, such as tasty festival treats from local vendors, great music, and even an area for kids. On top of all that, there are workshops and tours available for guests, like hiking and yoga or bike rides around the grounds. And if you don’t feel like driving back home after the festivities, you can always camp on-site.
Red Wing Roots Music Festival
Address: Natural Chimneys Park, Mount Solon, Virginia, United States
Website: Red Wing Roots Music Festival
Takes Place: June
28. Lockn' Festival [Last event in 2019]
Started in 2013, Lockn’ Festival was once formerly known as Interlocken Festival, but they have since shortened the name. For a few years now the festival has been attracting some pretty big names, though it is still primarily focused on smaller bands and musicians of the jam-band genre. The first Lockn’ Festival brought over 25,000 people, so it was already popular right from the start. Musical guests like Willie Nelson, Santana, My Morning Jacket, and Phish have played at this event. For those looking to stay for the whole festival, there are campgrounds on-site so you don’t miss a moment.
Lockn' Festival
Address: Oak Ridge Farm, Arrington, Virginia, United States
Website: Lockn’ Festival
Takes Place: August
29. Hampton Bay Days [Event has passed]
Hampton Bay Days has been ongoing since 1982. The festival is tremendously popular, gathering an estimated 200,000 visitors per year. Bringing people to historic downtown Hampton Bay, the festival aims to promote the importance of Chesapeake Bay. This event aims to preserve the bay and, as a result, so many things found at Hampton Bay Days are environmentally friendly and green. There are plenty of food options and some great musical entertainment, as well as booths and boutiques for shopping.
Hampton Bay Days
Address: 100 Bridge St Suite D3, Hampton, VA 23669, United States
Takes Place: September
30. PANorama Caribbean Music Fest [Event has passed]
![festivals in va | panorama caribbean music fest [event has passed]](http://static.trip101.com/paragraph_media/pictures/002/576/625/large/BisLTs4BlC8.png?1641546710)
You don’t have to be a world traveler or head down south to get the fun of Caribbean life. Listen to the soothing sounds of steel drums and check out the casual atmosphere and relaxation that you only get in the islands. The festival is perfect for the whole family and sitting on the Virginia oceanfront means it will sort of feel like you’re in the Caribbean but you won’t have to break the bank to get there. Experience island culture like food and music and even a free concert on Friday evening.
PANorama Caribbean Music Fest
Address: Virginia Beach, Virginia
Takes Place: May
Festive Virginia
Virginia is a place where you can certainly have a fun time. With so many festivals that cater to different tastes and themes, there’s no doubt that this state probably has a great event that will make you want to head out and go. Everything from food and music to art and culture can surely be found at one of these popular festivals in Virginia.
And since you’re already around the area, why not consider looking through some family resorts and luxury resorts nearby to compliment your experience with these festivals.
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