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Fun Facts About VA Beach and Virginia

  • 2,347 motorcoaches can fit end to end between the tollbooths on the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel.
  • The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center has over 800,000 gallons of aquariums.  That’s enough to fill over 4,400 motorcoach fuel tanks!
  • Motorcoaches carry enough people in North America every year to transport the entire population of Virginia 104 times.
  • The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse is as tall as two motorcoaches stacked up in the air, 90 feet.
  • The flight deck of the USS Theodore Roosevelt aircraft carrier can hold 257 motorcoaches parked around the edge of the flight deck.
  • Four motorcoaches stacked up in the air would be as tall as the flight control tower on a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier.

Host City

So cool we're hot - come and see how we "Live the Life". With an average high temperature of 50 degrees, you may not be able to take a dip in the beautiful Atlantic Ocean...but here is what you can do.

  • Take a stroll on our 3 mile boardwalk.
  • Eat some of the best seafood that you have ever had.
  • Take an adventure by kayaking or walking the trails at First Landing State Park or Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Park.
  • Spot a whale on an incredible Whale Watching Trip form the Virginia Aquarium.
  • Hit the links at our world-class Tournament Players Club.
  • Shop 'til you drop in our unique boutiques and shops.
  • ....this list is endless.

Marketplace Events

  • SATURDAY, FEB. 2
    CAVALIER BEACH CLUB EXTRAVAGANZA
    Sponsored by Virginia Beach CVB
    The fire pits are roaring on the sandy shore, the martinis are flowing, and the dancing is getting more robust by the minute. Even in February, Virginia Beach knows how to throw the hottest of Beach parties.  Be sure to join us at the Cavalier Beach Club as you mingle with friends, learn to shag dance, indulge in the sumptuous hors d'oeuvres, and marvel at the grandest display of fireworks exploding over a glimmering Atlantic Ocean. Even the venue itself is famous – after its 1929 opening, every major big band of the last three decades played at Cavalier Beach Club including Tommy Dorsey, Frank Sinatra, Benny Goodman, Cab Calloway, Lawrence Welk and Bing Crosby. Indulge in an evening of casual elegance, as the waves and stars create your perfect backdrop.

  • SUNDAY, FEB. 3
    OPENING CEREMONY AND ALL-DELEGATE BREAKFAST
    Sponsored by Virginia Beach CVB
    Virginia Beach and the Hampton Roads Region of Virginia are home to world-renowned military installations and one of the largest military bases in the country. For the selfless acts of heroism and valor by our U.S. Troops home and abroad, help us salute our brave men and women in uniform during the Opening Ceremony at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Be awed by the dazzling displays presented by the Color Guards and the USO, while indulging in a delectable, hot and savory breakfast. The mission of the USO is to enhance the quality of life and public support for the military members and their families stationed in the Hampton Roads Region.

  • MONDAY, FEB. 4
    TOWN CENTER PRESENTS THE "EDGE OF CHIC"
    Sponsored by Virginia Beach CVB and Virginia Arts Festival
    Discover Virginia Beach’s new stylish downtown area, Town Center, featuring exclusive dining establishments, upscale retail and nightlife only minutes from the oceanfront. Experience a breathtaking performance in the new Sandler Center for the Performing Arts. Roam through the diverse venues at Town Center, while tasting unique epicurean delights from around the world and Virginia Beach’s own coastal cuisine. The evening is designed to stretch the boundaries of elegance and indulgent luxury, while giving you an interactive experience you will never forget.

  • Wednesday, Feb. 6         
    NORFOLK:THE REASON THE MERMAID CAME ASHORE
    Sponsored by Norfolk CVB and Norfolk Partners
    Discover the “Power of the Sea” at Nauticus through interactive theaters, exhibits, and educational programs.   Learn sea stories from Navy Veterans who served aboard the largest and last Battleship, the U.S.S. Wisconsin.  Swing over to the Cruise Terminal for food and dancing in either Norfolk’s Jazz Lounge or Dueling Piano Bar. End the night by following the beat of the drums and the precision drill teams with the Virginia International Tattoo and dancing under the stars on the Elizabeth River on a harbor cruise.

  • Thursday, Feb. 7          
    DISCO INFERNO
    Sponsored by Visit Charlotte
    Get your groove on at Charlotte’s closing Dinner and Dance Party! Retro DJ “Tray Travolta” will spin your favorite hits from the sensational 70’s and prizes will be awarded for the most authentic 70’s threads. ABA leaders and your friends will be dressed in their grooviest duds, so you don’t want to miss this night! Throw in some funky decorations and plenty of room to dance and you have everything you need for a cool night in Virginia Beach. Details to follow, but Leisure Suits and Platform Shoes are suggested!  Be there or be square.

Dine Arounds

SUNDAY, FEB. 3 AND TUESDAY, FEB. 5
Sponsored by Virginia Beach CVB
An unique Coastal Virginia dining experience awaits you! Whether it’s the fresh catch of the day, award-winning crab cakes, mouth watering steaks or just sipping wine by the water’s edge, you’re in for quite a treat. Discover the secret local spots that are fast becoming recognized for their distinctive local flavor and fun year-round. It’s not all about the food – several dining establishments will have entertainment nightly. Be sure to stop by the Virginia Beach Dine Around Booth and let us assist you with your reservations.  And don’t forget to pick up your list of restaurants and tips on how to make your night a most delightful culinary experience.

Dine Around Guide

Menu of Venues: Use this listing for help in planning a group Dine Around experience.

Planning a special event during dine around nights? Contact Teri Wiley at the Virginia Beach CVB for suggestions on getting your clients to your venue (757-385-6665 or twiley@vbgov.com)

We would like to thank our sponsors who will make Marketplace 2008 such a success: