Virginia is home to a vibrant cultural scene, offering a diverse array of music festivals, conventions, and historical celebrations. Whether you’re a fan of live music, arts, science fiction, or outdoor festivities, the state’s 2025 event calendar has something for everyone.
From world-famous concerts and pop culture conventions to bluegrass music gatherings and surf park openings, here are the top 7 upcoming events and festivals in Virginia in 2025 that you won’t want to miss.
1. MarsCon 2025 – Virginia’s Longest-Running Sci-Fi Convention
📅 Dates: January 17–19, 2025
📍 Location: Holiday Inn Virginia Beach – Norfolk, Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia’s longest-running science fiction and fantasy convention, MarsCon 2025, celebrates its 35th anniversary with the theme “Galactic Empires & Epic Interstellar Legends”. The event will feature guest appearances by acclaimed authors, artists, musicians, and gaming experts, making it a must-attend for sci-fi and fantasy fans.
Why You Should Attend?
✔ Meet renowned sci-fi and fantasy authors
✔ Enjoy gaming sessions, cosplay, and panels
✔ Themed parties and musical performances
🔗 More Information: MarsCon 2025
2. FloydFest 2025 – A Music Festival in the Blue Ridge Mountains
📅 Dates: July 23–27, 2025
📍 Location: Floyd, VA
Set in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, FloydFest is a five-day celebration of music and arts, bringing together a mix of rock, bluegrass, reggae, folk, and world music artists. Beyond music, attendees can enjoy local arts & crafts, dance workshops, yoga sessions, storytelling, and poetry readings.
Why You Should Attend?
✔ A diverse lineup of artists across multiple genres
✔ A family-friendly festival with a dedicated children’s area
✔ Scenic outdoor setting with camping options
🔗 More Information: FloydFest 2025
3. GalaxyCon Richmond 2025 – The Ultimate Pop Culture Convention
📅 Dates: March 27–30, 2025
📍 Location: Greater Richmond Convention Center, Richmond, VA
For comic book, anime, and sci-fi fans, GalaxyCon Richmond is a multi-genre convention featuring celebrity guests, voice actors, comic book creators, cosplayers, and gaming tournaments.
Why You Should Attend?
✔ Meet pop culture icons and voice actors
✔ Participate in cosplay contests and gaming competitions
✔ Join engaging panels and workshops
🔗 More Information: GalaxyCon Richmond
4. Metallica at Lane Stadium – A Historic Concert in Virginia
📅 Date: May 7, 2025
📍 Location: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, VA
For the first time, rock legends Metallica will perform at Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium as part of their M72 World Tour. Opening acts include Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies, making this a once-in-a-lifetime event for metal fans.
Why You Should Attend?
✔ Legendary rock band performing at an iconic venue
✔ Experience the energy of a live stadium concert
✔ Special guest performances by Pantera and Suicidal Tendencies
🔗 More Information: Metallica at Lane Stadium
5. Something in the Water Festival – Pharrell’s Iconic Music Festival
📅 Dates: April 2025 (Exact dates TBD)
📍 Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Curated by Grammy-winning artist Pharrell Williams, Something in the Water Festival is set to return to Virginia Beach in 2025 after a postponement. This event celebrates music, art, and culture, featuring a star-studded lineup and immersive experiences.
Why You Should Attend?
✔ Live performances by top international artists
✔ Beachfront festival experience with art installations
✔ A cultural celebration with fashion, food, and innovation
🔗 More Information: Something in the Water Festival
6. Old Fiddlers’ Convention – The World’s Largest Bluegrass Festival
📅 Dates: August 4–9, 2025
📍 Location: Felts Park, Galax, VA
Established in 1935, the Old Fiddlers’ Convention is the world’s oldest and largest gathering dedicated to bluegrass and old-time music. Each year, thousands of musicians and fans from around the globe come to celebrate this rich musical tradition.
Why You Should Attend?
✔ Authentic bluegrass and Appalachian folk music
✔ Live competitions featuring world-class musicians
✔ A historic festival with over 80 years of tradition
🔗 More Information: Old Fiddlers’ Convention
7. Opening of Atlantic Park and Surf Park – A Surfing Paradise in Virginia Beach
📅 Expected Opening: Summer 2025
📍 Location: Virginia Beach, VA
Developed by Pharrell Williams, the Atlantic Park Surf Park will be a 2.6-acre Wavegarden surf lagoon, making it one of the most exciting new attractions in Virginia. The park is part of a $350 million entertainment district, featuring a live concert venue, restaurants, shops, and urban residences.
Why You Should Visit?
✔ First-ever surf park in Virginia Beach
✔ World-class artificial waves for all skill levels
✔ New entertainment and dining experiences
🔗 More Information: Atlantic Park and Surf Park
Why You Should Attend These Virginia Events in 2025?
🎶 Diverse Music Festivals & Concerts
From Metallica’s stadium show to Pharrell’s Something in the Water Festival and FloydFest’s multi-genre lineup, Virginia is hosting top-tier live performances in 2025.
🎭 Cultural & Pop Culture Experiences
Events like GalaxyCon Richmond and MarsCon bring together fans of sci-fi, comics, and gaming, while the Old Fiddlers’ Convention preserves America’s bluegrass heritage.
🌊 New Attractions & Outdoor Fun
The opening of the Atlantic Surf Park offers an exciting new destination for surfing, entertainment, and beachside leisure.
Conclusion
Virginia’s 2025 event lineup promises an unforgettable year of music, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a legendary concert, a weekend festival, or an immersive pop culture experience, these top 7 events will deliver excitement and adventure.
For more travel and lifestyle updates, visit CarValor.
