Special Events
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Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation hosts multiple special events throughout the year for our residents and visitors!
Fall Events
Where Wonder Grows: Sanctuary
Oct 17 - Dec 16
Step into a landscape where flowers move, birds sing, peacocks come to life, and thousands of illuminated forms transform the familiar surroundings of Mt. Trashmore.
International Coastal Cleanup
Sept. 19, 2026 | In partnership with volunteer organizations and individuals around the globe, the International Coastal Cleanup® (ICC) engages people to remove trash from the world’s beaches and waterways.
Ghoula Palooza
Oct. 17, 2026 - 11 am - 2 pm | Get your costumes ready for a spooktacular time at the annual Ghoula Palooza at Great Neck Recreation Center! Join us for an unforgettable family-friendly event filled with Halloween magic.
Autumn in the Air
Nov. 7, 2026 | A one-day festival to celebrate all things fall at Mount Trashmore!
America Recycles Day
Nov. 21, 2026 | Larkspur Middle School
Join us in promoting sustainability by recycling electronics and paper to help reduce waste and protect our environment.
Winter Events
Santa’s Stocking Old Fashioned Craft Bazaar
Nov. 14, 15, and Nov 21 and 22, 2026. Now in its 48th year, this event features a variety of craft vendors each weekend.
Winter Wildlife Festival
Jan. 24-Feb. 1, 2026 | Join us in January for a month-long celebration of coastal wildlife and nature featuring a flock of engaging programs to embrace our coastal beauty.
Chill at the Hill
Dec. 12, 2026 | Take a break from the holiday hustle and chill at the hill! Head to Mount Trashmore for an evening of music, art, lights and winter fun for the whole family.
Spring Events
Cherry Blossom Festival
March 27 – April 3, 2026 | Celebrate the blossom season with a variety of programs that promote the rich culture and beauty of Japanese music and art at Red Wing Park.
Earth Week
April 18 – 25, 2026 | This week-long event brings the Virginia Beach community together to raise awareness about environmental issues and promote sustainable practices.
Rising Sun Pow Wow
May 16, 2026 | Join us for the Rising Sun Pow Wow, a celebration of the Nansemond Tribe and Native American culture at Larkspur Middle School.
Summer Events
Parks After Dark
June 4 – Aug. 22, 2026 | Seasonal summer event that takes place on select weekends and parks.
Party At the Pier Summer Series
June 16, 18, 23, 25 and July 14, 16, 21, 23 | Seasonal summer event for family fun in Sandbridge featuring movies, concerts, activities, and more!
Play All Day
June 21 | Join Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation for Play All Day VA (PADVA), a statewide celebration of the longest day of the year through the power of play.
July 4th Celebration
July 4, 2026 | Celebrate with your friends and family at our annual July 4th Celebration at Mount Trashmore Park!
Beeps & Eats
Sept. 19, 2026 | Join us for family-friendly fun, food, touch-a truck, and community all in one place!
Paddle Battle
Get ready for a day of fierce competition, good vibes, and paddle-powered fun! Our pickleball tournament at PickleballVB brings players together for a day of friendly competition and fun on the court.