Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show
Virginia Beach Oceanfront
- Date: 10/9/2026
- Starts: 10:00am
Art meets the Atlantic Ocean each fall at the Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show, one of Virginia Beach’s longest-running and most celebrated annual events (running for over 70 years!). For three days, the Virginia Beach Boardwalk transforms into an outdoor gallery where visitors can browse exceptional fine art and contemporary craft while enjoying beautiful oceanfront views.
The Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show takes place October 9–11, 2026, bringing artists and art lovers together along the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Whether you’re searching for a one-of-a-kind piece to take home or simply enjoy browsing the work of talented artists, this longtime Virginia Beach tradition is well worth adding to your fall getaway.
The event also has an especially important place in Virginia Beach history. Its roots stretch back to 1952, when a group of local artists organized an art show to raise money for a fellow artist. That early event ultimately helped give rise to the organization that evolved into today's Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art. In 2026, the Boardwalk Art Show celebrates its 70th annual event.
What to Expect at the Boardwalk Art Show
The best part of the Boardwalk Art Show is simply taking your time strolling along the oceanfront and discovering the work on display. Expect a wide variety of styles and mediums, with both newer and established artists represented.
Unlike a typical arts-and-crafts market, the Boardwalk Art Show focuses on juried fine art and contemporary craft, making it a particularly fun event for collectors and anyone interested in discovering original artwork. Artists compete for awards based on artistic excellence, with the 2026 Best in Show winner receiving a $10,000 prize.
Even if you aren't planning to purchase anything, wandering through the show with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop makes for a memorable way to spend a fall day in Virginia Beach.
2026 Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show Information
Dates:
Friday, October 9: 10am to 6pm
Saturday, October 10: 10am to 5pm
Sunday, October 11: 10am to 4pm
Location: The event stretches along the Virginia Beach Boardwalk from approximately 24th to 37th Streets, with activity also taking place around 24th Street and 31st Street parks.
How to Get There from Sandbridge Beach
The Virginia Beach Oceanfront is an easy distance from Sandbridge, allowing you to enjoy the excitement of the Boardwalk Art Show while keeping your vacation home base in a quieter beach community.
From Sandbridge, head north toward the Virginia Beach Oceanfront and follow signs toward the Resort Area. Once you arrive, the art show stretches along the Boardwalk between approximately 24th and 37th Streets.
Because this is a popular annual event, allow extra time for traffic and parking. The City of Virginia Beach recommends using municipal parking lots, garages, and available on-street parking during the event.
Is the MOCA Boardwalk Art Show Family-Friendly?
Yes! The Boardwalk Art Show can be a fun addition to a family trip to Virginia Beach. The outdoor format makes it easy to explore at your own pace, and children can see an incredible variety of paintings, photography, sculpture, mixed media, and other artwork while spending time along the oceanfront.
Pair your visit with a walk on the beach, lunch near the Boardwalk, or another Virginia Beach attraction to make a full day of your trip from Sandbridge.
Stay in Sandbridge for the Virginia MOCA Boardwalk Art Show
Enjoy the best of both worlds by making Sandbridge Beach your home base for the Boardwalk Art Show. With Sandbridge Blue, you can stay close enough to enjoy Virginia Beach's events and attractions while returning each evening to the laid-back atmosphere of Sandbridge.
Choose from professionally managed Sandbridge vacation rentals ranging from comfortable condos to spacious beach houses with room for the whole family or group. Spend your days exploring art, beaches, restaurants, and Virginia Beach attractions, then settle into your own coastal retreat at the end of the day.
