Good Morning Virginia Beach!

This week is all about local wins, community moments, and a few things worth marking on your calendar.

Here’s a peek at what’s waiting for you:

Scroll on to see what’s new, what’s coming, and what’s worth checking out around town.

— Kim Checcio

Big travel news for our city. Virginia Beach just earned a spot on The New York Times’ 52 Places to Go in 2026, landing at #50 and putting VB on a global must-visit list.

The article calls out what many locals already know. Virginia Beach is leveling up.

Another major draw mentioned is Atlantic Park Surf. Well, of course.

And beyond the beach, the article highlights the newly restored Francis Land House, where visitors can connect with the area’s deep and complex history through thoughtfully curated exhibits.

From surf and sports to art, music, and meaningful history, Virginia Beach is having a moment. And according to The New York Times, the world should be paying attention.

This weekend and throughout the month, our community is honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a variety of local events and service opportunities. From family-friendly activities like the “I Have a Dream” art project at the Virginia Beach library to parades, story walks, concerts, and community celebrations in Norfolk, Smithfield, Newport News and beyond, there’s something for everyone to reflect, learn, and serve together.

👉🏼 Find the full list of events, dates and locations here

The City of Virginia Beach’s Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP) is gearing up for another year. Designed for teens and young adults ages 16–21, this paid summer program helps participants gain real-world work experience, build professional skills, and explore future career paths through hands-on job placements, mentorship, and workplace readiness training.

What to know now
📅 Applications: Jan 15
⏳ Program length: 8 weeks (summer)
👥 Ages: 16–21
💵 Paid positions with career coaching and mentorship

Now’s a great time for families and students to learn more and be ready when applications open.

👉 Program details and updates

Good news for families with preschoolers! Kids ages 3–5 can enjoy free, unlimited admission to both Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA with the 2-Park Preschool Pass — just register online and visit the park to activate it. The pass is valid through Nov. 1, 2026 once your child’s first visit happens by May 31, 2026. This special offer gives your little ones a year full of rides, splashy water fun, and seasonal events designed for young guests. Parents, just note that parking and special events like Christmas Town aren’t included with the pass.

👉🏼 Learn more and register here

A lot is happening around town. Here’s a quick look at what’s new, popping up, or officially opening very soon.

🥐 TOUS les JOURS is Coming to VB
The beloved French-Asian bakery known for fresh breads, signature cakes, and daily-made pastries is opening its Virginia Beach location this February. Croissants and coffee lovers, get ready.
👉 Sneak peek

🥪 Potbelly Opens in Kempsville
Potbelly is opening its first Southeast Virginia location on January 20 at Fairfield Shopping Center in the Kempsville area. A grand opening celebration follows on January 30.

🍽️ Virginia Beach Restaurant Week is Almost Here
Local restaurants across Virginia Beach are rolling out special prix-fixe menus for Virginia Beach Restaurant Week, making it the perfect time to try a new spot or revisit a favorite. Reservations are highly recommended.
👉🏼 Find all the details here

We’ve got something delicious to celebrate. A local favorite made Yelp’s annual list of the Top 100 Restaurants in America for 2025, earning national recognition alongside eateries from across the country.

It’s a big honor for our food scene and a great reason to get out and support one of our area’s standout spots.

👉🏼 Read more about it here

Our next Hampton Roads Dinner Club is happening on January 21, and we’re excited to bring this experience back after a great December dinner turnout.

If you’re new to Dinner Club, read more about it here.

👉🏼 Register for our next event happening in the Hilltop area!

Friday, 1/9
Winter Waterfowl Walks | 8:30am
First Fridays: Commonwealth Brewing Company | Commonwealth Brewing Company | 6:00pm
Surf + Cinema | Atlantic Park Surf | 5:00pm
Whats Your Muse? | Virginia Beach Art Center | 6:00pm
VBGIGs: Philippines (FREE) | Zeiders American Dream Theater | 7:30pm

Saturday, 1/10
Survival of the Slowest | Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center | 9:00am
Virginia Aquarium's E-Cycling | Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center | 9:00am
Surf Wellness | Atlantic Park Surf | 10:00am
The Home Owners Expo | Chesapeake Conference Center | 10:00am
Pet Adoption Event | Pups and Pints | 12:00pm
Plan B Kids Comedy Show | Zeiders American Dream Theater | 2:00pm
Virginia Beach Winter Wildlife Festival Movie Night | First Landing State Park | 4:30pm
Sunk Ship Gala III | The Gala 417 | 5:00pm
A FAREWELL TO PARKS AVENUE: PARTY + SILENT AUCTION | Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art | 6:00pm
The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show | APEX Entertainment | 6:00pm
Radio 80s @ Voodoo Brewing! | Voodoo Brewing Co. | 8:00pm

Sunday, 1/11
A FAREWELL TO PARKS AVENUE: COMMUNITY CELEBRATION | Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art | 10:00am
The Home Owners Expo | Chesapeake Conference Center | 11:00am
2026 Coastal Virginia Weddings Showcase | The Founders Inn and Spa | 1:00pm
The Upside Down Unwind | Dave and Buster's | 1:00pm
It's a Jazz Orchestra, Charlie Brown! | Sandler Center for the Performing Arts | 4:00pm
Symphonicity: Lollipop Concert | Sandler Center for the Performing Arts | 4:00pm