Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion
The Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion is a prominent outdoor concert venue located on the boardwalk in Virginia Beach, Virginia, hosting a diverse range of musical acts and events. Originally constructed in 1993, the pavilion has undergone several name changes reflecting its corporate sponsors, but remains a central hub for entertainment in the city. Its location provides a unique atmosphere, combining the excitement of live performances with the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
History
The venue initially opened as the GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater in 1993, quickly becoming a popular destination for national touring acts. The original construction was part of a larger effort to revitalize the Virginia Beach boardwalk and attract more visitors to the oceanfront. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the amphitheater hosted a variety of performers, ranging from popular rock and pop bands to country music stars and classical ensembles. [1]
In 2008, the venue was renamed the Verizon Wireless Amphitheater Virginia Beach following a sponsorship agreement with Verizon Wireless. This change reflected the growing trend of corporate naming rights for entertainment venues. Further changes occurred in 2016 when it became the Farm Bureau Live at Virginia Beach, and again in 2021 when Atlantic Union Bank secured the naming rights, resulting in its current name, the Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion. [2] These name changes, while frequent, have not diminished the pavilion’s role as a significant cultural and economic driver for Virginia Beach. The City of Virginia Beach continues to oversee the operation and maintenance of the facility. [3]
Geography
The Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion is situated directly on the Virginia Beach boardwalk, at 18th Street. This prime location offers attendees easy access to the beach, restaurants, and other attractions along the oceanfront. The venue is positioned with the stage facing west, allowing concertgoers to enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean during performances. The surrounding area is heavily developed with hotels, condominiums, and commercial establishments catering to tourists.
The pavilion’s geographic location also presents unique logistical challenges. Limited space on the boardwalk necessitates careful planning for crowd control and traffic management during large events. The proximity to the ocean requires the venue to be designed to withstand the corrosive effects of saltwater and potential storm surges. The City of Virginia Beach actively manages the surrounding infrastructure to accommodate the influx of visitors during concerts and festivals. [4]
Culture
The Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion plays a significant role in the cultural landscape of Virginia Beach, providing a platform for a diverse range of musical genres and artistic expressions. The venue hosts concerts featuring national and international touring artists, as well as local bands and performers. The types of performances vary widely, including rock, pop, country, reggae, and electronic music.
Beyond musical performances, the pavilion also hosts other events, such as festivals, community gatherings, and special celebrations. These events contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of the Virginia Beach oceanfront and attract visitors from across the region. The venue’s open-air design and oceanfront location create a unique and memorable experience for attendees. The pavilion’s programming is designed to appeal to a broad audience, reflecting the diverse interests of the local community and tourists. [5]
Attractions
The Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion itself is a major attraction, drawing concertgoers and event attendees to the Virginia Beach oceanfront. However, its location enhances its appeal by providing easy access to numerous other attractions. The Virginia Beach boardwalk, which stretches for three miles, offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Nearby attractions include the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, offering exhibits on marine life and conservation; the Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, showcasing modern and contemporary art; and several state parks providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. The pavilion’s proximity to these attractions makes it a convenient destination for visitors seeking a comprehensive entertainment experience. The oceanfront itself is a major draw, offering opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. [6]
Getting There
The Atlantic Union Bank Pavilion is readily accessible by various modes of transportation. For those traveling by car, ample parking is available in nearby parking garages and lots, although these can fill up quickly during major events. Public transportation options include the VB Wave, a free trolley service that operates along the oceanfront, and local bus routes.
For visitors staying at oceanfront hotels, the pavilion is often within walking distance. Bicycle rentals are also available, providing a convenient and eco-friendly way to reach the venue. The closest airport is Norfolk International Airport (ORF), approximately a 30-minute drive from Virginia Beach. Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also readily available in the area. [7]