Savor Tradition at the East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic
Updated By Chris Murphy / Written By Elizabeth Rose Engle of Wandering Rose Travels. / Images from Live! On Atlantic.
Food is a great way to gain a sense of place, and adding a competition to the mix is a recipe for fun. The East Coast She Crab Soup Classic dishes out the best of a local culinary tradition. Now in its 11th year, this open she crab cookoff includes 20 area restaurants battling for honors from attendees and experts.
The 2025 event takes place on April 5th, from noon–2:30 p.m. at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront’s 24th Street Park.

East Coast She Crab Soup Classic Participants
Presented by the Culinary Institute of Virginia, the competition features regional restaurants vying for the title of Best She Crab Soup. Attendees taste and vote for the People’s Choice Awards, while four regional cuisine experts serve up Critic’s Choice Awards.

East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic Tickets
Tickets are scheduled to go on sale February 7, 2025: The limited number of East Coast She-Crab Soup Classic tickets usually sell out in advance. Online tickets sell through Ticketmaster.

Location and Parking
Located on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, 24th Street Park hosts top events and entertainment. Parking is available in the 25th Street Municipal Garage at 336 25th Street.
What to Bring
The She Crab Soup Classic happens rain or shine. Dogs and beach chairs are not permitted in the tasting area. Comfortable shoes and sunglasses or hat are advised.
Explore Virginia Beach waterfront dining.
Still Hungry for Some of the Best She Crab Soup in Virginia Beach?
A beloved regional delicacy from Virginia to Georgia, creamy she crab soup stars the blue crab, an Atlantic seafood staple.