The Neptune Festival is back for 2024, and it’s bringing all the excitement and fun to Virginia Beach’s famous oceanfront! This beloved event is one of the largest festivals on the East Coast, drawing thousands of visitors from all over the country. Whether you’re a local or planning a trip, the Neptune Festival is the perfect way to enjoy the last days of summer with friends, family, and fellow beach lovers. Get ready for a weekend filled with live music, incredible art, delicious food, thrilling competitions, and so much more. Let’s explore everything the Neptune Festival 2024 has to offer!
What is the Neptune Festival?
The Neptune Festival began in 1974 as a way to celebrate the end of the summer season in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Since then, it has grown into one of the largest and most popular events on the East Coast. Named after Neptune, the Roman god of the sea, the festival embraces its coastal roots by featuring a wide variety of activities and events that take place right along the beautiful Atlantic shoreline.
The Neptune Festival 2024 will take place from September 27 to September 29, and promises to be bigger and better than ever. It’s a time when the boardwalk comes alive with music, arts, crafts, food vendors, sand sculptures, and even a grand parade. Visitors can enjoy three days of nonstop entertainment while soaking up the sun and ocean views. This festival is all about fun, community, and celebrating life by the sea!
Top Highlights of Neptune Festival 2024
Here are some of the key events and activities that you won’t want to miss at this year’s Neptune Festival:
| Event | Date | Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Boardwalk Weekend | September 27-29 | Music, food, arts, and crafts along the boardwalk |
| International Sand Sculpting | September 27-29 | See amazing sand sculptures created by world artists |
| Neptune’s Grand Parade | September 28 | Colorful parade featuring floats, bands, and performers |
| 5K & 8K Races | September 28 | Run along the scenic oceanfront |
| Neptune’s Art & Craft Show | September 27-29 | Local and national artists display their best work |
| Wine & Beer Tastings | September 27-29 | Sample fine wines and craft beers from local vendors |
| Volleyball Tournament | September 28 | Exciting beach volleyball matches for all ages |
| Symphony by the Sea Concert | September 28 | Free concert featuring the Virginia Symphony Orchestra |
Experience the Boardwalk Weekend
The Neptune Festival’s Boardwalk Weekend is the main event and features something for everyone. Stroll along the Virginia Beach boardwalk and take in the sights and sounds of live music on multiple stages, performances by local and regional artists, and fun activities for all ages. There will be more than 250 artisans from across the country displaying their crafts, including jewelry, pottery, paintings, and photography. It’s the perfect place to find a unique souvenir or gift.
Food lovers will be in heaven with all the delicious options available. Local food vendors will be serving up everything from fresh seafood and classic beach treats to international cuisine. Don’t forget to try the famous funnel cakes, kettle corn, and homemade ice cream. If you’re a fan of seafood, be sure to visit the festival’s “Seafood Fest,” where you can enjoy shrimp, crab cakes, oysters, and more, all fresh from the Chesapeake Bay.
International Sand Sculpting Championship
One of the most anticipated events of the Neptune Festival is the International Sand Sculpting Championship. This world-renowned competition brings together the best sand sculptors from around the globe to create stunning works of art using nothing but sand and water. These incredible sculptures, some standing over 10 feet tall, are true masterpieces that must be seen to be believed.
The sand sculpting event is held under a large tent, so visitors can enjoy the artworks rain or shine. While you’re there, you can also watch live demonstrations, meet the artists, and learn more about the art of sand sculpting. Make sure to bring your camera – these creations are truly Instagram-worthy!
Neptune’s Grand Parade
The Neptune’s Grand Parade is a true highlight of the festival and is fun for all ages. This colorful procession features dozens of floats, marching bands, dancers, costumed characters, and more. The parade is a celebration of community spirit and creativity, with local schools, businesses, and organizations coming together to showcase their talents and enthusiasm.
The parade takes place on Saturday, September 28, starting at 11 a.m. It runs along Atlantic Avenue, giving everyone a great view of the lively procession. Be sure to arrive early to get a good spot, and don’t forget to bring a chair or blanket for comfortable viewing!
Run or Walk in the Neptune Festival Races
For those who like to stay active, the Neptune Festival offers two races – a 5K and an 8K – that take place along the scenic oceanfront. The races are open to runners and walkers of all ages and skill levels, and they’re a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the beautiful coastal views.
Both races start on Saturday morning, September 28. Participants will receive a race t-shirt, a finisher medal, and plenty of cheers from the crowd. Whether you’re aiming for a personal best or just want to have fun, these races are a great addition to the festival.
Neptune’s Art & Craft Show
If you love art, you won’t want to miss Neptune’s Art & Craft Show. The show features over 250 artists and craftsmen from across the country, offering a wide range of unique and handmade items. From fine art paintings and photography to ceramics, jewelry, woodwork, and more, there’s something for every taste and budget.
This is the perfect place to find a one-of-a-kind piece of art or a special gift. The artists are often on-site, so you can meet them, learn about their work, and even commission custom pieces.
Wine & Beer Tastings by the Sea
No festival is complete without great drinks, and the Neptune Festival delivers with its Wine & Beer Tastings event. Enjoy sampling a variety of fine wines and craft beers while taking in the ocean views. Local wineries and breweries will be offering their best selections, giving you a taste of Virginia’s vibrant wine and craft beer scene.
The tastings are held throughout the weekend, and tickets can be purchased on-site or in advance. It’s a great way to relax, unwind, and enjoy some local flavors.
Symphony by the Sea Concert
For music lovers, the Symphony by the Sea concert is a must-attend event. Held on Saturday evening, this free concert features a performance by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra right on the beach. Bring a blanket or chair, sit back, and enjoy the beautiful sounds of classical music while the sun sets over the ocean. It’s a truly magical experience and one of the festival’s most cherished traditions.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss Neptune Festival 2024!
The Neptune Festival 2024 promises to be an unforgettable weekend of fun, music, art, and community in the beautiful setting of Virginia Beach. With so many events and activities to choose from, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in world-class sand sculptures, lively parades, delicious food, or simply soaking up the sun on the beach, the Neptune Festival is the place to be.
So mark your calendar for September 27-29, gather your family and friends, and head to Virginia Beach for the Neptune Festival 2024. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
Make sure to check the official Neptune Festival website for the latest updates, ticket information, and a full schedule of events. We hope to see you there – let’s celebrate life by the sea!
