Local Traditions & Customs in Virginia Beach, United States

1. First Night Virginia Beach

A New Year's Eve tradition featuring local and national artists, food vendors, and fireworks over the ocean.

Community Gathering: Brings together thousands of locals and visitors for a memorable New Year's Eve celebration
Cultural Expression: Showcases local arts and music, reflecting the city's diverse cultural scene
Safe Environment: Offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a secured area for children's activities

Annual arts, sand sculpting, and seafood festivals held in August.

Artistic Showcase: Highlights local and national artists with various mediums including painting, photography, and crafts
Sand Sculpting Competition: Features master sand sculptors creating massive works of art on the beach
Seafood Delight: Offers a variety of fresh seafood from local vendors for visitors to enjoy

A Virginia Beach institution serving locally-sourced seafood and live music.

Seafood Variety: Offers a wide selection of fresh seafood dishes, including local favorites like crab cakes
Live Music Venue: Features live music performances by local and national acts daily during the summer season
Historical Significance: Located in a historic building that has been a part of Virginia Beach's history since the 1940s

A 3-mile long boardwalk running parallel to the beach, perfect for walking, biking, and people watching.

Scenic Beauty: Provides stunning views of the ocean, sandy beaches, and local wildlife
Recreational Activities: Offers opportunities for biking, skating, and jogging along the beachfront
Shopping & Dining: Features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions along its length

A park honoring the U.S. Navy with a monument, gardens, and picnic areas.

Military History: Honors the U.S. Navy and its contributions to Virginia Beach's history
Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding neighborhoods
Relaxation Space: Provides a peaceful setting for picnics, reflection, and relaxation

Haunted history tours exploring the mysterious side of Virginia Beach.

Historical Mystery: Uncovers the hidden stories and mysteries behind local landmarks and buildings
Entertainment Value: Offers a unique, thrilling experience for visitors interested in the paranormal
Local Insights: Provides insights into Virginia Beach's rich history and ghost stories

A world-class aquarium dedicated to marine conservation and education.

Marine Education: Promotes understanding of ocean ecosystems through interactive exhibits and programs
Wildlife Conservation: Supports marine conservation efforts, including sea turtle rehabilitation and research
Beauty & Wonder: Showcases a wide variety of marine life, from sharks and rays to seals and sea otters

A seasonal market offering fresh produce, local crafts, and live music.

Fresh Produce: Offers a variety of locally-grown fruits, vegetables, and flowers
Craftsmanship: Showcases local artisans selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and other items
Community Gathering: Provides a friendly atmosphere for locals and visitors to gather and enjoy live music

A historic fishing pier offering a chance to catch fish or watch the sunset.

Fishing Opportunities: Provides opportunities for fishing, with equipment rentals available on-site
Scenic Views: Offers stunning views of the ocean and sunsets
Historical Significance: A historic landmark, first opened in 1927, that has become an iconic part of Virginia Beach's skyline

Food tours featuring local restaurants and their specialties.

Culinary Exploration: Offers a culinary adventure, exploring the diverse food scene of Virginia Beach
Local Insights: Provides insights into the local food culture and history
Tasty Memories: Creates memorable experiences through delicious food and fun stories

A natural preserve offering wildlife viewing, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities.

Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, including birds, deer, and wild horses
Nature Exploration: Offers hiking trails through various habitats, such as marshlands and forests
Conservation Efforts: Supports wildlife conservation efforts by protecting vital habitats and species

A historic building turned museum showcasing the history of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Military History: Honors the U.S. Coast Guard and its contributions to Virginia Beach's history
Scenic Views: Offers beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding neighborhoods
Historical Exhibits: Features exhibits showcasing artifacts, photographs, and stories from the Coast Guard's past

A museum dedicated to surfing and beach rescue history.

Surf Culture: Highlights the rich surf culture that has developed in Virginia Beach
Rescue Heroes: Honors the bravery and dedication of local beach rescue teams
Historical Artifacts: Displays surfboards, photographs, and other artifacts from the past, showcasing the evolution of surfing in Virginia Beach

An amusement park offering rides, games, and entertainment for all ages.

Family Entertainment: Offers a fun, family-friendly environment with various attractions
Thrilling Rides: Features exciting rides for both kids and adults, including roller coasters and water rides
Games & Prizes: Offers a variety of games with the opportunity to win prizes

A state park commemorating the first landing of the Jamestown colonists in Virginia.

Historical Significance: Honors the historical significance of the first English settlement in America
Scenic Beauty: Offers beautiful views of the ocean, marshlands, and forests
Recreational Opportunities: Provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, biking, and picnicking