Join the Ultimate Coastal Celebration at the Forty Third Poquoson Seafood Festival in Poquoson, Virginia, USA

The Poquoson Seafood Festival is one of Virginia‘s most beloved annual events, offering a unique opportunity for families, friends, and visitors from all over to experience the best of Chesapeake Bay’s culture and traditions. The 43rd edition of this celebrated festival, held from October 17 to October 19, 2025, promises to be bigger and better than ever, drawing thousands of people to the picturesque city of Poquoson, located along Virginia’s stunning coastline. For more than four decades, this festival has honored the area’s rich maritime heritage while offering an exciting mix of entertainment, arts, food, and community spirit.

A Rich Tradition Honoring the Working Watermen

At the heart of the Poquoson Seafood Festival is a deep respect for the working watermen who have helped shape the Chesapeake Bay’s economy and culture. The festival honors these individuals and their contribution to the region’s seafood industry by showcasing their hard work and celebrating their craftsmanship. Visitors can learn about traditional waterman practices, including how crab pots are made, the history of oyster harvesting, and other essential aspects of the Chesapeake’s water-based economy.

The festival’s mission to celebrate local maritime culture resonates with Poquoson residents and visitors alike, giving attendees the chance to explore the unique history of the region. The event also shines a light on the ongoing importance of the Bay to local fishermen and the ecosystem.

Fun for the Whole Family

One of the key reasons why the Poquoson Seafood Festival stands out in the region is its emphasis on being a family-friendly event. It offers activities and entertainment options that are appealing to people of all ages. Whether you’re a couple looking for an enjoyable day out, a group of friends seeking some lively entertainment, or a family with children wanting to have fun together, the Poquoson Seafood Festival has something for everyone.

Live Music for Every Taste

Music is a central part of the festival experience. Every year, the festival presents an outstanding lineup of performers, ensuring there is music for all tastes. The festival spans three days, with each day featuring different styles of live performances.

Friday, October 17: To kick off the weekend, local favorite Tidewater Drive, known for its party and dance music, will take the stage. Performing from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM, this vibrant local band will get everyone in the festival spirit and set the tone for the fun-filled weekend ahead.

Saturday, October 18: The lineup on Saturday includes The Bill Miles Band, bringing their regional flair and crowd-pleasing tunes to the stage. Afterward, Good Shot Judy, the Mid-Atlantic’s premier high-energy jazz band, will perform. Known for their exceptional jazz music, this group is sure to entertain with their dynamic performances that encourage visitors to get up and dance.

Sunday, October 19: The festival wraps up with an 80s throwback, as The Evolution Chorus and THE DELOREANS bring the best of 80s music to the festival. From classic rock hits to catchy pop anthems, these performances will provide a fun finale to the weekend.

Beyond these main acts, the festival also features local talent, with performances by groups like the Poquoson High School Band, Poquoson Islanderettes, and Poquoson Dance Academy. Acoustic music fans can also enjoy performances at the Dockside Food Pavilion Stage, which showcases a variety of local and regional acoustic acts.

Arts & Crafts Showcases Local Talent

The Poquoson Seafood Festival is also well-known for its exceptional arts and crafts display, one of Virginia’s largest outdoor arts shows. The Poquoson Art League Juried Arts & Crafts Show will feature approximately 175 local artisans showcasing their creations, ranging from coastal paintings and sculptures to unique jewelry and handcrafted pottery.

For those interested in taking home a memorable keepsake or a one-of-a-kind gift, the festival’s Arts & Crafts Show offers an incredible selection of pieces that reflect the beauty of Virginia’s coastline and the talents of local artists. Many artists draw their inspiration from the Bay’s natural surroundings, creating works that capture the tranquility of water scenes, vibrant sunsets, and the region’s wildlife.

Art lovers and collectors alike will have the opportunity to meet the artists, learn about their creative processes, and purchase exclusive works of art directly from them. The show is a great place to find coastal-inspired décor, handcrafted jewelry, and unique gifts that cannot be found in traditional retail stores.

Chesapeake Bay Flavors Await

No visit to the Poquoson Seafood Festival would be complete without indulging in some of the finest seafood the Chesapeake Bay has to offer. The Food Pavilion is the heart of the festival’s culinary offerings, and it offers a true taste of the Bay. Whether you’re a long-time seafood lover or trying Chesapeake Bay flavors for the first time, there’s something for every palate.

Festival-goers can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, shrimp, oysters, soft-shell crabs, and clam strips. For those craving traditional comfort food, there are also hearty servings of fried chicken, French fries, and funnel cakes. In 2024, the festival served over 9,000 crab cakes, 620 gallons of soups and chowders, and 19,000 pounds of French fries, proving just how popular the food is.

In addition to the seafood, the festival offers alternative food options such as smoked BBQ, gator bites, and corn on the cob for those seeking a break from seafood. Visitors can enjoy the delicious flavors prepared fresh on-site, with options ranging from steamed to grilled to breaded, offering a variety of ways to savor the freshest ingredients from the Bay.

Children’s Activities for the Young and the Young at Heart

The Children’s Area is one of the most exciting features of the Poquoson Seafood Festival, with a wide array of activities that kids and families will love. Magician John Kingry will entertain the little ones with magical performances, while the Rainbow Puppets Show Production adds an interactive and playful experience for children of all ages. There will also be amusement rides by Cole Shows, offering thrilling rides and games for kids to enjoy throughout the festival weekend.

In addition to these activities, Jack’s Jungle will present an educational animal show and an interactive petting zoo, where children can meet and learn about various animals. These fun and educational experiences are designed to engage kids in the festival’s unique coastal theme and give them a chance to interact with nature.

Working Watermen’s Heritage Display

Another popular attraction at the festival is the Working Watermen’s Heritage Display, where visitors can explore the region’s rich maritime traditions. The exhibit showcases the skills and tools that have been passed down through generations of watermen, including the construction of crab pots, net-making techniques, and the tools used for oyster harvesting. It’s an immersive and educational display that offers a deeper understanding of how the Chesapeake Bay has sustained local families for centuries.

Festival Hours, Parking, and Logistics

The Poquoson Seafood Festival will be held at Municipal Field from October 17 to October 19, 2025. The hours are as follows:

• Friday, October 17: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Saturday, October 18: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Sunday, October 19: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission to the festival is free, with all concerts included in the entry fee. Visitors are encouraged to bring their beach chairs or blankets for seating during musical performances at the Municipal Field.

Parking for the festival is available for a $10 cash fee, which helps support local community projects and student scholarships. General parking is located at 51 Odd Road, and accessible parking is available at 830 Poquoson Avenue (a handicapped placard is required). Directional signs from I-64 Poquoson Exit (256B) will guide visitors, and festival staff will be on hand to assist with parking.

A Souvenir to Remember the Event

No trip to the Poquoson Seafood Festival would be complete without a keepsake to remember the experience. Festival-goers can purchase official 2025 Poquoson Seafood Festival T-shirts and jackets, which feature original artwork by local artist REBA Arts. These stylish souvenirs serve as a tribute to the festival’s celebration of Chesapeake Bay’s bounty and are a great way to remember this special event.

A Tradition That Brings the Community Together

The Poquoson Seafood Festival is more than just an event; it is a celebration of the people, culture, and traditions that define this beautiful corner of Virginia. Whether you’re drawn to the live music, delicious seafood, artistic crafts, or the family-friendly activities, there’s no shortage of fun at this annual festival. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Virginia’s coastal heritage, learn about the Bay’s importance, and create lasting memories with friends and family.

As the 43rd edition of the festival approaches, now is the time to mark your calendars and plan your visit to Poquoson. Whether you’re a local or a newcomer, the festival offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that showcases the very best of Virginia’s rich maritime culture.

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