Virginia’s 2026 festival season is filled with many opportunities to enjoy the Commonwealth’s hospitality, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences—from spring flowers to jazz concerts and wine tastings throughout summer and fall. No matter your preferences, interests, or budget, you’ll find a festival that suits you and your family. Here are some additional details:
April 24-May 3 
Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival
Celebrating its 99th year, the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival offers more than fifty events over ten days—live entertainment, dances, a carnival, meals, a wine festival, and children’s activities—welcoming visitors to enjoy spring among the apple blossoms. (https://blueridgecountry.com/events/shenandoah-apple-blossom-festival-2026/)
Saturday, May 2, 2026
Chincoteague Seafood Festival
This annual event celebrates the local seafood industry with all-you-can-eat offerings, live music, and artisan vendors. Enjoy local seafood including little neck clams, raw oysters, clam fritters, fried fish, and clam chowder. Live entertainment and more! (chincoteaguechamber.com)
June 25-28
Williamsburg Live
Music, history, and summer ambiance converge on the shaded lawn of Colonial Williamsburg’s Art Museums. Guests can enjoy craft beer, regional cuisine, and performances by distinguished artists such as Melissa Etheridge, Wynonna Judd, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, and Alison Krauss & Union Station. (vafest.org)
July 17 thru 19
Virginia Lake Fest
Lake Fest, now in its 49th year and named among the “Top 20 Festivals in the Southeast,” takes place in downtown Clarksville. Highlights include dazzling fireworks, hot air balloons, a lively street fair, live performances, and plenty of music and dancing. (https://clarksvilleva.com/events/#lakefest)
July 23 thru 25
38th Annual Chincoteague Island Blueberry Festival
Visit the Largest Indoor and Outdoor Fine Arts & Crafts event on the Eastern Shore. Commemorate blueberry season with all-day live music while savoring the old-fashioned deliciousness of fresh blueberries, muffins, pancakes, homemade blueberry pie and ice cream, and plenty more!
(https://chincoteagueislandblueberryfestival.com/)
August 21 & 22
Norfolk Waterfront Jazz Festival
The downtown waterfront in Norfolk transforms each year into the area’s longest-running jazz festival. Jam to performances from renowned entertainers, as well as offerings from local food vendors, art exhibits, and engaging cultural activities. (https://festevents.org/events/2026/jazz-fest/)
SEPTEMBER 26 & 27
Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival
Virginia’s Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival, held at Bernard’s Landing in Moneta, brings visitors together to sample wines from across the state, shop for artisan crafts, listen to live music, and enjoy stunning views of the lake. Join the more than 10,000 people who attend this outdoor event every year for a weekend filled with scenery and flavor. (https://smlwinefestival.com/)
Editorial by Kim Amboy; April 2026