Free events in Virginia Beach, VA

East Coast Hikers plan a visit to the historic Cape Henry Lighthouses at Fort Story, Virginia, with a gentle, go-at-your-own-pace climb up a narrow tower of 191 steps. Two lighthouses stand side by side. The older light can be climbed at no cost, and the newer one welcomes a voluntary $12 donation that supports preservation. The plan includes gathering at the base for group photos before the ascent. Bringing cold drinks is encouraged. At the top, expect expansive views and a refreshing breeze off the Chesapeake Bay. On International Lighthouses Day, the base is open to visitors, and guests should inform the guard that they are there to see the lighthouses.

Season 18 of Old Beach Farmers Market returns with a welcoming showcase of fresh, local food. Shop directly from farmers and food producers offering just-picked produce, pasture-raised meats, artisan breads, cheeses, and other specialty goods, and connect with the people who grow and make what you take home. Enjoy live music presented by Big Juicy Entertainment, featuring local musicians who set a lively tone for the market experience. For ongoing vendor updates, special events, and seasonal recipes, a newsletter keeps the community informed. Operated by a volunteer board dedicated to a vibrant, community driven experience, the market provides a space where local farms and food businesses can thrive. Bring your market bags, stroll the stands, and savor seasonal flavors.

Come out for the MTC Summer Sizzle Car Show at Cavalier Ford Chesapeake Square. This family-friendly show welcomes all years, makes, and models of passenger cars, trucks, and motorcycles, and it’s a judged classes event with multiple class awards plus top awards including Best in Show, Dealer’s Choice, VFW Choice, and Club Participation. There’s also a 50/50 drawing at the conclusion of the show. Registration is onsite only, and spectators do not pay.

Help care for local waterways by removing litter from Crab Creek and the Lynnhaven Inlet Boat Ramp. Bags and litter grabbers will be provided. At the entrance, mention you are there for the Crab Creek cleanup to be directed to the parking lot. Look for the setup next to the house at the picnic tables. Drinks and snacks will be available.

Explore the ViBe Creative District on a guided walking tour of vibrant murals. Departing from the LOVE sign in the district, the route covers about one mile and typically lasts 1 to 1.5 hours. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera, and bundle up during the colder months. Children and dogs are welcome. Free on-street parking is available. This tour is free to the public with support from the Virginia Beach Arts & Humanities Commission, and donations help the ViBe Creative District nonprofit sustain year-round arts programming.

Join a free skateboarding fundamentals clinic at Woodstock Skate Park, focused on helping new skaters learn how to push and ride safely on a flat space. Extra boards will be available for newcomers who do not have one yet.

The Janitors take the stage for a free live performance at Town Center Fountain Plaza as part of the Summer Fest lineup that continues all summer. This outdoor show is weather permitting. The event is produced by the Central Business District Association with support from the City of Virginia Beach, Town Center of Virginia Beach, and Armada Hoffler Realty Trust, and entertainment is booked by Astro Event Company. The Central Business District Association shares reminders, updates, and cancellations on social media.

AOZ performs in a live show, with free entry earlier in the evening before a cover charge applies.

A free 1st Phorm community workout features a full body strength session guided by Body by Summer at LFTgym. Welcoming beginners and seasoned lifters alike, it offers a lively atmosphere with upbeat music, encouraging people, and a workout that pushes participants in a positive way. Beyond the exercises, it emphasizes connection and being part of a supportive community. Attend solo or with a friend. Spots are limited.

Groovin’ by the Bay is back for a free, family-friendly summer concert at Buckroe Beach. Enjoy a mix of oldies, Motown, top 40, pop, and rock favorites, plus dancing and local food trucks to round out the evening. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating and comfortable shoes for dancing.

Live music from Fond Memories comes to the Town Center Fountain Plaza with a free performance that is part of the Summer Fest lineup happening all summer long. The show is weather permitting. It is produced by the Central Business District Association, supported by the City of Virginia Beach, Town Center of Virginia Beach, and Armada Hoffler Realty Trust, with entertainment booked by Astro Event Company.

Brighten up your Monday with a family movie matinee at the library. Movies will be rated G to PG, with the featured lineup including The Good Dinosaur (June), The Croods (July), and Ice Age (August).

The Z Team and VB Surf Sessions have created a weekly on-the-water experience that blends paddling, NOga, and community fun. Bring your own board at no cost, or rent one for 27 bucks. Capacity is limited each week to 24 participants, with 12 rental spots and 12 spaces for those bringing their own boards. To secure a place, text 757-375-7325 and wait for a confirmation. If renting, send 27 bucks via Venmo to Courtney Rollins Zawisa after you receive your confirmation. Participants meet at the Owls Creek Public Boat Launch, located beside the Virginia Aquarium. Renters receive boards on site, and Courtney leads a short introduction on land before heading onto the water. The group takes a relaxed paddle to get comfortable, then comes together for activities that may include in-water meditation or a NOga session. There may also be a casual talent showcase and other lighthearted icebreakers. Parking at the boat launch is $5. Attendees must be able to swim and feel comfortable in the water, and no prior paddling experience is required. There are no refunds. If weather interferes, board rentals shift to the following week. Wear water shoes or flip tops. A life jacket must be on your board to avoid a fine of 75 dollars, and rentals include one.

Music Video Bingo features video snippets and bingo fun led by Devin Martz of Tidewater Trivia, a favorite among locals. There is no cost to participate, and players have several chances to win gift cards and swag. You can stop in for a single round or stay for the entire session. Ask about the Cantina Night dinner and margarita specials.

Put your knowledge to the test with general-topic trivia. It is free to play, and prizes are up for grabs. Reservations are not required, but groups larger than three are encouraged to call 757-689-1747 to reserve a table.

Step into Shadowdark, an RPG where resources are scarce and every choice matters. Arm yourself with unusual weapons and confront fearsome creatures while navigating a perilous world that tests strategy and nerve. Expect a challenging, survival-focused adventure that rewards careful planning. There is no entry fee to participate.

Join in for Little Farmers: Storytime on the Farm at Cullipher Farm. Kids will listen to a farm-themed story featuring animals, nature, and life on the farm. After the book, children take part in a simple hands-on activity inspired by the story to explore, create, and play. The class is designed for young learners (recommended ages 3-7), is free, and requires a reservation since capacity is limited. Parents can attend with no additional ticket.

Experience the Oceanfront Concert Series in Virginia Beach with a performance by Watchhouse at 31st Street Park, where live music fills the air along the iconic boardwalk with the Atlantic as the backdrop. This outdoor show is free and open to the public, bringing fans together for a summer evening by the ocean. Before you go, note that attendees may bring a beach blanket, a towel, or a standard beach chair without a footrest or canopy, as well as a small cooler. Outside food and nonalcoholic drinks are allowed. Re-entry is available with a hand stamp, and strollers are welcome. Alcohol is not permitted, and open or glass containers are not allowed. Please do not bring bicycles, scooters, skateboards, or other vehicles. Pets are not allowed except for certified service animals. Professional camera or video equipment and umbrellas are also prohibited.

Star Wars Shatterpoint fans can take part in casual open play at Tower of Games in Virginia Beach. Entry is free, and there are no prizes. The event is structured as a weekly opportunity for open play in a relaxed setting.

Join for a relaxed hour of coffee, treats, and playful activities designed for babies up to 24 months. It is a chance for caregivers to connect while little ones explore and play with other children. The event is free to attend and open to all guardians, and there is no JCC membership required. Registration/notice is requested ahead of time.

Stop by the Meyera E. Oberndorf Central Library for the 2nd Annual VB TRIAD Community Collaboration Expo: It’s a Family Affair, a free, family-friendly event focused on bringing the Virginia Beach community together. You can browse community resources, health and wellness exhibitors, and safety and crime-prevention information, enjoy fun activities and games, listen to music and entertainment, and connect through networking opportunities. There will also be giveaways and prizes, and there’s free parking. Doors open at 11:15 AM, and registration is required.

Neptune Festival’s Symphony by the Sea Concert Series returns for its 15th season, bringing free orchestral performances to 31st Street Park at the Virginia Beach oceanfront. This concert features Symphonicity Orchestra as part of a lineup that also includes appearances by the Virginia Symphony Orchestra on other nights. These events draw large crowds and the park fills quickly, so early arrival is recommended. VIP Memberships for the full season are available for $175 per person. Benefits include reserved seating for all five performances, valet parking, receptions before each concert with light hors d’oeuvres along with wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages, complimentary popcorn and bottled water during the performance, plus two ticket vouchers per member for an additional Virginia Symphony Orchestra concert of choice and two more for a Symphonicity concert of choice. Rain dates are planned as needed. A paying member may bring children 16 and under at no charge.