Something in the Water Festival — History
Something in the Water Festival, an annual event held in Virginia Beach, has become a defining cultural and economic force in the city since its inception in 2012. Organized by the Virginia Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism, the festival celebrates the city’s coastal identity, community spirit, and artistic creativity through a blend of music, art, and local culture. Named after the phrase “something in the water” — a colloquial reference to the city’s reputation for producing successful musicians and artists — the festival has grown from a small gathering into a major regional attraction. It draws thousands of attendees each year, contributing significantly to the local economy while fostering a sense of pride among residents. The festival’s history reflects Virginia Beach’s evolution as a cultural hub, its commitment to supporting the arts, and its ability to transform a local idea into a national phenomenon. This article explores the festival’s origins, its development over time, and its broader significance within the context of Virginia Beach’s geography, culture, and economy.
History
The origins of the Something in the Water Festival can be traced back to 2012, when the Virginia Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism sought to create a new event that would celebrate the city’s unique identity and artistic talent. The festival was inspired by the observation that Virginia Beach had produced a disproportionate number of successful musicians, including artists like Miley Cyrus and Lil Nas X, who have roots in the area. This phenomenon, often referred to as the “something in the water” theory, became a rallying point for the festival’s organizers, who aimed to highlight the city’s creative potential. The inaugural event took place at the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a historic and iconic location that has long served as a gathering place for residents and visitors alike. The first festival featured local musicians, food vendors, and art installations, drawing an estimated 10,000 attendees.
Over the years, the festival has expanded in scope and scale, becoming one of the largest free music festivals in the United States. By 2015, the event had grown to include multiple stages, a larger lineup of national and international artists, and increased community involvement. The festival’s success has been attributed to its ability to balance local and global appeal, ensuring that it remains accessible to Virginia Beach residents while attracting a broader audience. In 2020, the festival faced a significant challenge when the COVID-19 pandemic forced its cancellation. However, the organizers adapted by hosting a virtual version of the event, which reached millions of viewers online. This pivot demonstrated the festival’s resilience and commitment to innovation. By 2023, the festival had fully returned to its in-person format, with attendance surpassing 150,000 people. The festival’s history reflects not only the city’s cultural ambitions but also its ability to adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining its core mission of celebrating creativity and community.
Geography
The Something in the Water Festival is held annually at the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a 1.5-mile-long promenade that stretches along the Atlantic Ocean. The Boardwalk, completed in 1984, has long been a central hub for tourism, recreation, and cultural events in Virginia Beach. Its location on the coast provides a unique setting for the festival, combining the natural beauty of the ocean with the vibrancy of urban entertainment. The Boardwalk’s proximity to the ocean and its extensive infrastructure, including restaurants, shops, and public transportation, make it an ideal venue for large-scale events. The festival’s layout takes advantage of the Boardwalk’s open spaces, with stages, food vendors, and art installations spread across the promenade.
The geography of Virginia Beach plays a crucial role in the festival’s success. The city’s coastal location offers a mild climate year-round, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors. Additionally, the Boardwalk’s position along the Intracoastal Waterway and its access to nearby beaches and parks enhance the festival’s appeal. The surrounding neighborhoods, such as Virginia Beach Downtown and Ocean View, contribute to the area’s lively atmosphere, with their mix of historic buildings, modern amenities, and cultural institutions. The festival’s geographic context underscores Virginia Beach’s reputation as a coastal city that seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban development. This setting not only enhances the festival experience but also reinforces the city’s identity as a premier destination for arts and culture.
Culture
The Something in the Water Festival is deeply rooted in Virginia Beach’s cultural identity, reflecting the city’s diverse population, artistic heritage, and community values. The festival serves as a platform for local artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their talents, fostering a sense of pride and belonging among residents. It also highlights the city’s commitment to inclusivity, with programming that features a wide range年 of genres, from hip-hop and rock to jazz and electronic music. The festival’s emphasis on local participation is evident in its partnerships with community organizations, schools, and cultural institutions, which help to ensure that the event remains accessible to all.
Beyond its musical programming, the festival celebrates Virginia Beach’s broader cultural landscape through art installations, food vendors, and interactive exhibits. These elements reflect the city’s multicultural heritage, with offerings that range from traditional Southern cuisine to international dishes. The festival also incorporates educational components, such as workshops and panels, that explore the intersection of music, art, and social issues. This approach aligns with Virginia Beach’s broader cultural initiatives, including its support for the arts through programs like the Virginia Beach Arts Festival and its designation as a UNESCO Creative City of Music. By integrating local and global influences, the festival reinforces Virginia Beach’s role as a dynamic cultural hub that values creativity, diversity, and community engagement.
Economy
The Something in the Water Festival has had a significant economic impact on Virginia Beach, contributing to the city’s tourism industry, local businesses, and employment opportunities. As one of the largest free music festivals in the United States, the event attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, generating revenue for hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments. According to a 2022 report by the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development, the festival contributed an estimated $12 million to the local economy in that year alone. This figure includes spending by attendees on accommodations, food, transportation, and other services, as well as the economic activity generated by the festival’s vendors and sponsors.
In addition to direct economic benefits, the festival has helped to elevate Virginia Beach’s profile as a premier destination for arts and culture. This increased visibility has led to a rise in year-round tourism, with visitors drawn to the city’s beaches, historic sites, and cultural attractions. The festival also supports local entrepreneurs and small businesses, many of whom participate as vendors or performers. By providing a platform for these individuals, the festival helps to sustain the city’s creative economy and promote innovation. Furthermore, the event has created job opportunities for residents, ranging from event staff and security personnel to marketing and logistics professionals. The economic impact of the festival underscores its importance not only as a cultural event but also as a driver of growth and prosperity for Virginia Beach.
Attractions
In addition to its musical programming, the Something in the Water Festival offers a variety of attractions that highlight Virginia Beach’s natural and cultural resources. The festival’s location on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk provides access to a range of nearby attractions, including the Virginia Beach Aquarium & Marine Science Center, the Virginia Beach Museum of Art, and the First Landing State Park. These sites, which are often visited by festival attendees, contribute to the city’s reputation as a destination that combines coastal beauty with cultural enrichment. The festival itself features interactive exhibits, art installations, and family-friendly activities that appeal to a wide audience. These attractions not only enhance the festival experience but also encourage visitors to explore the broader offerings of Virginia Beach.
The festival’s proximity to the ocean and its integration with the Boardwalk’s infrastructure make it a unique event that blends urban and natural environments. Attendees can enjoy the festival’s programming while also taking advantage of the Boardwalk’s amenities, such as its restaurants, shops, and public transportation options. This accessibility ensures that the festival remains inclusive and convenient for both residents and visitors. Additionally, the festival’s emphasis on sustainability, including efforts to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices, aligns with Virginia Beach’s broader environmental initiatives. By incorporating these elements, the festival reinforces its role as a celebration of both cultural and natural heritage, making it a standout attraction in the region.
Getting There
The Virginia Beach Boardwalk, where the Something in the Water Festival is held, is easily accessible by car, public transportation, and walking. For visitors arriving by car, the Boardwalk is located in the heart of Virginia Beach, with ample parking available in nearby lots and garages. The city’s Virginia Beach Transportation system, which includes buses and trolleys, provides convenient access to the Boardwalk from various parts of the city. Additionally, the Boardwalk is within walking distance of several hotels, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a central hub for visitors.
For those traveling from outside the city, the festival is accessible via major highways such as Interstate 264 and U.S. Route 17, which connect Virginia Beach to neighboring areas and cities. The city’s Virginia Beach Regional Airport offers direct flights to and from several major U.S. cities, providing an alternative for visitors who prefer air travel. Public transportation options, including shuttle services and ride-sharing platforms, are also available to help attendees navigate to and from the festival. These transportation options ensure that the festival remains accessible to a diverse audience, reinforcing its role as a community event that welcomes both locals and visitors.
Neighborhoods
The Something in the Water Festival takes place in the Virginia Beach Downtown area, a vibrant neighborhood that serves as the city’s cultural and commercial center. This neighborhood is characterized by its historic architecture, bustling streets, and proximity to the ocean, making it a popular destination for residents and tourists alike. The festival’s location in Downtown Virginia Beach allows it to benefit from the neighborhood’s existing infrastructure, including its well-developed transportation network, restaurants, and retail stores. The surrounding area also includes other neighborhoods such as Ocean View and Cape Henry, which contribute to the city’s diverse urban landscape.
The Downtown neighborhood, in particular, plays a crucial role in the festival’s success, as it provides a dynamic backdrop for the event’s programming. The area’s mix of