Summer in Virginia is a time of vibrant celebrations, where communities come alive with music, food, arts, and outdoor activities. From the bustling streets of Richmond to the scenic landscapes of the Shenandoah Valley, the state offers a diverse array of festivals that capture the spirit and culture of Virginia. Whether you’re a local resident or planning a visit, here are some must-see festivals that you should add to your summer calendar.
Richmond Jazz Festival
- When: August 9-11, 2024
- Where: Richmond, VA 23220
- Address: 1700 Hampton Street
- Time: Varies
- Price: $169.38 to $299.25
- Learn more on the Facebook page
A three-day, 360-degree sensory immersion at The Richmond Jazz Festival featuring Fantasia, Ludacris, Artist-In-Residence Wyclef, Regina Bell, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Gregory Porter, Bob James, Snarky Puppy, Elliott Yamin, and more!
The Richmond Jazz Festival is a highlight of the summer, drawing jazz enthusiasts from near and far. Held in the picturesque Maymont park, this festival features a stellar lineup of internationally renowned jazz artists, as well as local talent. With multiple stages set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, attendees can enjoy performances ranging from traditional jazz to contemporary fusion. Beyond the music, the festival offers gourmet food vendors, craft beer, wine, and artisanal crafts, making it a complete cultural experience.
Virginia Beach Neptune Festival
- When: September 27, 2024
- Where: Virginia Beach Oceanfront | Between 1st-33rd Streets
- Address: Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach VA 23451
- Time: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Price: FREE
- Learn more on the Facebook page
The Neptune Festival in Virginia Beach is a beloved tradition that spans several weeks, culminating in a grand celebration at the end of September. This festival pays homage to the sea, with activities that include sand sculpting competitions, a parade, fireworks, and live music. One of the highlights is the International Sand Sculpting Championship, where artists from around the world create incredible works of art from sand. The Boardwalk Weekend is particularly popular, featuring an array of food stalls, craft vendors, and family-friendly entertainment.
FloydFest
- When: July 24 – 28, 2024
- Where: Check, Virginia 24072 | Blue Ridge Parkway
- Address: 5826 Floyd Highway North
- Time: 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Price: Varies
- Learn more on the Facebook page
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains, FloydFest is a multi-day music and arts festival that offers an eclectic mix of genres, including rock, bluegrass, reggae, and folk. This festival is more than just music; it’s an immersive experience with outdoor adventure activities like hiking, biking, and yoga. Attendees can explore the Global Village for unique crafts and foods, participate in workshops, and even join in on late-night jam sessions. FloydFest prides itself on being environmentally conscious, with a focus on sustainability and community.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival
- When: Various dates throughout the summer
- Where: Orkney Springs, VA 22845
- Address: 81 Shrine Mont Circle
- Time: Varies
- Price: Varies
- Learn more on the Facebook page
The Shenandoah Valley Music Festival is one of the longest-running outdoor music festivals in Virginia, celebrating over 50 years of music. Held at the historic Orkney Springs, this festival features a series of concerts ranging from classical and jazz to country and bluegrass. The venue itself is a charming, rustic retreat, providing an intimate and relaxed atmosphere for enjoying live music. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket, and enjoy an evening under the stars with some of the best musical talent the region has to offer.
Chincoteague Island Pony Swim and Auction
- When: July 20 – 26, 2024
- Where: Chincoteague Island, VA
- Address: Varies area of the island
- Time: Varies by day – check Events page for daily info
- Price: FREE
- Learn more on the Facebook page
For a truly unique Virginia experience, head to Chincoteague Island for the annual Pony Swim and Auction. This event, steeped in tradition, involves the wild ponies of Assateague Island swimming across the channel to Chincoteague. The swim is followed by a parade through the town and the auction of some of the foals, with proceeds benefiting the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. The week-long celebration also includes a carnival with rides, games, and delicious fair food. This festival is not only a fun family event but also supports the preservation of the wild ponies.
Virginia Highlands Festival
- When: July 26 to August 4, 2024
- Where: Abingdon, VA 24210
- Address: Varies by activity
- Time: Varies by location/activity
- Price: Varies
- Learn more on the Facebook page
The Virginia Highlands Festival in Abingdon is a celebration of the region’s arts, crafts, and culture. This multi-week festival features a juried arts and crafts show, antiques market, historical reenactments, and a variety of workshops and performances. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, Abingdon provides a picturesque setting for this festival. Visitors can enjoy live music, theater productions, and literary events, along with guided tours of historical sites. The festival also showcases the culinary arts with local food vendors and farm-to-table dinners.
Capital Fringe Festival
- When: June 20 to July 23, 2024
- Where: Washington, DC
- Learn more on the Facebook page
- June 20: Capital Fringe Festival full schedule is live and tickets on sale. Tickets are $15 + $2.51 handling fee. All seats are general admission.
- June 20 & July 11: FreeFringe Lunchtime Teasers, Edward R. Murrow Park 12pm – 1:30pm
- July 15, 16, 17: Fringe Happy Pop Ups 7pm – 10:30pm Locations announced June 20
- July 23: Fringe Audience Awards
Just a short drive from Northern Virginia, the Capital Fringe Festival in Washington, D.C., is a dynamic celebration of independent theater, dance, music, and art. This festival is known for its bold and experimental performances, offering a platform for emerging artists and unconventional works. With venues scattered throughout the city, attendees can experience a wide range of shows, from provocative plays to avant-garde dance performances. The festival atmosphere is lively and eclectic, encouraging creativity and artistic expression.
Winchester Frederick County Fair
- When: July 29 – August 3, 2024
- Where: Clear Brook, VA 22624
- Address: 250 Fairground Road
- Time: Varies
- Price: Varies
- Learn more on the Facebook page
The Winchester Frederick County Fair is a quintessential summer fair, offering a mix of agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and delicious fair food. Held at the fairgrounds in Winchester, this event showcases the agricultural heritage of the Shenandoah Valley with livestock shows, horse pulls, and horticultural displays. The fair also features a demolition derby, truck and tractor pulls, and nightly concerts, making it a fun-filled event for the whole family.
Richmond Folk Festival
- When: September 27-29, 2024
- Where: Brown’s Island • Richmond VA
- Friday, September 27 — 6:30pm – 10:00pm
Saturday, September 28 — 12:00pm – 9:30pm
Sunday, September 29 — 12:00pm – 6:00pm - Price: FREE
- Learn more on the Facebook page
While technically in early fall, the Richmond Folk Festival is worth mentioning as a season-capping event. This free, three-day festival celebrates the richness and diversity of American culture through music, dance, crafts, and food. Held along the banks of the James River, the festival features multiple stages with performances ranging from blues and gospel to bluegrass and zydeco. The festival also includes a folk arts marketplace, regional cuisine, and interactive workshops, offering a comprehensive cultural experience.
Conclusion
Virginia’s summer festivals are as diverse and vibrant as the state itself. From the coastal charm of the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival to the mountainous beauty of FloydFest, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These festivals not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community, celebrate local traditions, and showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage. So, mark your calendars, gather your friends and family, and get ready to make the most of the summer with these unforgettable Virginia festivals.