Fall in Virginia Beach means cooler temperatures, fresh seafood, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coast! One of the area's favorite fall traditions is returning for its 45th year: the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum's Pig & Oyster Fest!
Taking place on Sunday, October 25, 2026, this annual celebration brings together locals and visitors for an afternoon of fresh oysters, Southern barbecue, live music, and community fun at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Best of all, the event supports the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum and its mission to preserve the area's rich coastal history.
Fresh Oysters & Southern Barbecue
Come hungry! The Pig & Oyster Fest celebrates two coastal favorites: oysters and savory pork barbecue. Guests can enjoy freshly prepared oysters, delicious barbecue, fried chicken, and other tasty offerings while soaking up the oceanfront atmosphere.
Whether you're an oyster enthusiast or prefer classic Southern comfort food, there's something to satisfy your appetite.
Live Music & Coastal Entertainment
What's a coastal festival without live music? The Pig & Oyster Fest features entertainment from DogJaw, bringing a lively soundtrack to an afternoon of great food and good company.
Grab a drink, find a spot to relax, and enjoy the music while catching up with friends or meeting fellow festivalgoers.
With plenty of opportunities to socialize, the festival captures the welcoming community atmosphere that makes Virginia Beach special.
Silent Auction for a Great Cause
In addition to the food and entertainment, guests can participate in a silent auction featuring a variety of items and experiences. It's a fun opportunity to take home something special while supporting a meaningful local cause.
Proceeds help the Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum continue its work preserving and sharing the stories of the area's coastal communities.
Supporting Virginia Beach's Maritime Heritage
The Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum is more than just the host of this annual festival. Located along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, the museum preserves the fascinating history of the region's maritime heritage, from early lifesaving services and shipwrecks to the surfing culture that has shaped the community.
Through historical artifacts, interactive exhibits, and educational programs, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the people and traditions that helped make Virginia Beach what it is today.
Attending the Pig & Oyster Fest is a great way to enjoy a local tradition while helping preserve these stories for future generations.
2026 Pig & Oyster Fest Event Details
Ready to attend? Here's everything you need to know before heading to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Location: 24th Street Park and Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
Address: 2401 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451
General Admission: $80
Youth Tickets (Ages 8–20): $30
Children Under 8: Free with an accompanying adult ticket
Tickets are available online, but don't wait until the last minute! This popular annual fundraiser sold out in advance last year.
Make a Fall Getaway Out of It!
Why not turn your visit to the Pig & Oyster Fest into a relaxing fall getaway? October is a wonderful time to visit Sandbridge Beach, with fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the coast.
Spend the morning walking along the shoreline, head to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront for an afternoon of oysters, barbecue, and live music, then return to the peaceful surroundings of Sandbridge to unwind.
Whether you're planning a weekend escape with friends or a family vacation, Sandbridge offers a great home base for enjoying local festivals and everything the Virginia Beach area has to offer.
Browse our Sandbridge vacation rentals and start planning your next coastal getaway!
