Best Festivals In Virginia

Virginia: A State of Celebrations

Virginia is a state known for its history, culture, and diverse traditions. It’s not only the birthplace of America, but also a state that’s rich in scenic beauty and vibrant festivals. From music to food, from art to heritage, Virginia’s festivals have something for everyone. Here are the best festivals in Virginia that you won’t want to miss.

🎉 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is a celebration of spring, beauty, and blooming apple trees. Hosted in Winchester, Virginia, it’s one of the oldest and largest festivals in the state, attracting more than 250,000 people every year. The festival features parades, live entertainment, carnival rides, and a beauty pageant.

What is the history of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival?

The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival started in 1924 as a small-town parade to celebrate the springtime. Over the years, the festival has grown to become a week-long extravaganza with dozens of events and activities.

What are some of the must-see events at the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival?

The Grand Feature Parade, the Coronation of Queen Shenandoah, and the Firefighters’ Parade are some of the most popular events at the festival. There are also carnival rides, live music, and a wine festival.

🎉 Virginia Beach Neptune Festival

The Virginia Beach Neptune Festival is a celebration of the beach, the ocean, and the local community. Hosted in Virginia Beach, Virginia, it’s a three-day festival that attracts more than 500,000 people every year. The festival features a sand sculpting championship, a parade, a regatta, a 5K race, and live music.

What is the history of the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival?

The Virginia Beach Neptune Festival started in 1973 as a way to boost tourism in the off-season months. The festival was inspired by the Roman god Neptune, who was believed to be the protector of the sea.

What are some of the must-see events at the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival?

The International Sand Sculpting Championship, the Grand Parade, and the Boardwalk Weekend are some of the most popular events at the festival. There are also fireworks, a wine festival, and a 8K race.

🎉 Virginia Wine Expo

The Virginia Wine Expo is a celebration of Virginia’s burgeoning wine industry. Hosted in Richmond, Virginia, it’s a four-day festival that attracts wine lovers from all over the country. The festival features wine tastings, food pairings, seminars, and live music.

What is the history of the Virginia Wine Expo?

The Virginia Wine Expo started in 2004 as a way to showcase Virginia’s growing wine industry. The festival was inspired by the success of other wine festivals in the country, and it has since become one of the largest wine events in the East Coast.

What are some of the must-see events at the Virginia Wine Expo?

The Walk-Around Grand Tasting, the Master Class Series, and the Savor Virginia Pavilion are some of the most popular events at the festival. There are also wine dinners, a spirits lounge, and a brunch.

🎉 Virginia International Tattoo

The Virginia International Tattoo is a celebration of military music, pageantry, and culture. Hosted in Norfolk, Virginia, it’s a four-day festival that attracts military bands and performers from all over the world. The festival features parades, concerts, and a tattoo ceremony.

What is the history of the Virginia International Tattoo?

The Virginia International Tattoo started in 1997 as a way to honor the military heritage of Virginia and the United States. The festival was inspired by the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland, and it has since become one of the largest military tattoo events in the world.

What are some of the must-see events at the Virginia International Tattoo?

The Virginia International Tattoo Parade, the Virginia Tattoo Gala, and the Tattoo Matinee are some of the most popular events at the festival. There are also military demonstrations, a fireworks show, and a tattoo marketplace.

🎉 Virginia State Fair

The Virginia State Fair is a celebration of agriculture, livestock, and local food. Hosted in Doswell, Virginia, it’s a ten-day festival that attracts more than 200,000 people every year. The festival features farm animals, carnival rides, live music, and a food competition.

What is the history of the Virginia State Fair?

The Virginia State Fair started in 1854 as a way to promote agriculture and industry in the state. The festival has since become a beloved tradition for Virginians, featuring everything from pig races to butter sculptures.

What are some of the must-see events at the Virginia State Fair?

The Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off, the Demolition Derby, and the Virginia Farm Bureau Women’s Pie Contest are some of the most popular events at the festival. There are also carnival games, a petting zoo, and a beer festival.

🎉 Richmond Folk Festival

The Richmond Folk Festival is a celebration of music, dance, and culture from around the world. Hosted in Richmond, Virginia, it’s a three-day festival that attracts more than 200,000 people every year. The festival features live music, dance performances, and traditional crafts.

What is the history of the Richmond Folk Festival?

The Richmond Folk Festival started in 2005 as a way to showcase the diverse cultural heritage of Virginia and the United States. The festival was inspired by the National Folk Festival, and it has since become one of the largest folk festivals in the country.

What are some of the must-see events at the Richmond Folk Festival?

The Virginia Folklife Area, the CarMax Family Area, and the Dominion Energy Dance Pavilion are some of the most popular events at the festival. There are also food vendors, a marketplace, and a children’s area.

🎉 Norfolk Harborfest

The Norfolk Harborfest is a celebration of maritime history, culture, and adventure. Hosted in Norfolk, Virginia, it’s a three-day festival that attracts more than 100,000 people every year. The festival features tall ships, live music, and plenty of seafood.

What is the history of the Norfolk Harborfest?

The Norfolk Harborfest started in 1976 as a way to celebrate America’s bicentennial and Norfolk’s maritime heritage. The festival has since become a beloved tradition for locals and tourists, featuring everything from boat races to fireworks.

What are some of the must-see events at the Norfolk Harborfest?

The Parade of Sail, the Fireworks Extravaganza, and the Bayou Boogaloo & Cajun Food Festival are some of the most popular events at the festival. There are also a crafts marketplace, a children’s area, and a beer garden.

The Best Festivals In Virginia: Celebrate the Heart of America

Virginia is a state that’s full of surprises and delights, and its festivals are no exception. Whether you’re a music lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Virginia’s festivals have something for everyone. From the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival to the Norfolk Harborfest, these festivals are a celebration of Virginia’s rich traditions, diverse culture, and natural beauty. So mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best festivals in Virginia.

FAQs

Q: When is the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival?

A: The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival takes place in late April or early May.

Q: Is the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival a free event?

A: Most of the events at the Virginia Beach Neptune Festival are free, but some events like the sand sculpting championship and the wine festival require tickets.

Q: What is the admission fee for the Virginia Wine Expo?

A: The admission fee for the Virginia Wine Expo varies depending on the day and the type of event. You can check the official website for more information.

Q: Can I bring my pet to the Virginia State Fair?

A: Pets are not allowed at the Virginia State Fair, except for service animals.

Q: Is the Richmond Folk Festival a rain or shine event?

A: Yes, the Richmond Folk Festival is a rain or shine event.

Q: What is the best way to get to the Norfolk Harborfest?

A: The best way to get to the Norfolk Harborfest