Top May Events in Virginia Beach 2026

Mark Your Calendar for these May Events in Virginia Beach

Updated By Chris Murphy

The month of May is full of fun and exciting events in Virginia Beach. Whether you’re searching for family-friendly events, food and drink events, live music or free festivals, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. Be sure to pick up a Virginia Beach Visitors Guide to find even more events happening throughout the year.

Here are our top events happening in Virginia Beach.

May 2-3: Atlantic Coast Kite Festival

Kite enthusiasts and spectators unite for the Atlantic Coast Kite Festival! This cherished event offers a rich array of activities that cater to people of all ages and skill levels. On the beach from 16th-18th Streets
FREE and open to the public

May 8-9: Virginia International PANfest

At the 24th Street stage, ensembles have the opportunity to perform in our Virginia International PANFest competition that is free and open to the public! We will be celebrating this incredible art form with live performances that will feature 15 – 20 minute long live performances of steel bands from across the US, ending the day with performances from our Opening and Headlining entertainment.

May 8-9: Beachy Music Weekend

Beach Music Weekend features bands on the beach with dancing under the stars for a jam-packed blast from the past! The top Beach Music bands from up and down the East Coast descend on the Virginia Beach oceanfront in a nostalgic salute to the “good old days” of hot tunes and cool times.

May 15-17: Pungo Offroad Monsters on the Beach

Pungo Offroad Monsters on the Beach, presented by Eastern Truck & Accessories, brings thrills and chills to the Virginia Beach oceanfront as Monster Trucks battle for ultimate sand domination! This family-friendly event is loud, fast, and exciting. Make sure you see the BIGGEST Monster Truck show in the mid-Atlantic ON THE BEACH with a race and stunt course built right on the Beach at 6th Street and bleachers overlooking from the boardwalk. Sand dune ramps and junk cars combine to make the racecourse fast and fun for drivers and spectators alike. Buy Tickets

May 22-24: Memorial Day Weekend Salute to Summer

FREE and open to the public at 17th and 24th Street Parks. Enjoy the cool sounds of summer as the season of sun and fun kicks off on Memorial Day Weekend! Free concerts at 17th Street Park, 24th Street Park, and 31st Street Park feature local bands representing different genres and musical stylings. These concerts Friday, May 23-Sunday, May 25 complement the perfect weekend to sun, swim, and surf at the East Coast’s premier resort.

May 29-31 Jackalope Fest

Jackalope Fest returns to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront from May 29–31, 2026. This free, three-day action sports festival features world-class competitions in skateboarding, BMX, and BASE jumping. Attendees can enjoy live music, food trucks, and beachside vibes, making it an adrenaline-packed experience for athletes and families alike.

May 30: CoVa Burger Battle

The CoVa Battle of the Burgers returns to Chesapeake City Park on May 30, 2026. This 21+ event features local restaurants competing for the “best burger” title through delicious slider samples. Attendees enjoy live music, craft beers, and specialty vendors. Tickets include burger tastings and a magazine subscription. Buy Tickets


Want more Events?

CALENDAR: Check out our Virginia Beach Visitors Guide calendar of events to help plan your activities!
CALENDAR: Looking for events at the beach? View our This Week At The Beach Calendar showcasing all events at the oceanfront.

NEWSLETTER: Or sign up for our Virginia Beach Destination Newsletter to receive exclusive content for planning your vacation getaway to Virginia Beach!

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