Good Morning Virginia Beach!

A big food moment, a full day in the ViBe, and a few updates shaping what’s happening around the city right now. There’s a lot packed into this one.

Keep scrolling, you might find your next plan.

— Kim Checcio

Every year, Livability releases its Top 100 Best Places to Live in the U.S., and the 2026 list is officially out.

And yes…Virginia Beach is on it.

The rankings pull from 100+ data points, looking at everything from cost of living and job opportunities to amenities and overall quality of life. Cities like Huntsville, Alabama and Carmel, Indiana landed at the top this year, with a strong focus on places that offer both value and lifestyle.

Virginia Beach continues to stand out for a reason. Coastal living, a strong local economy, and no shortage of things to do year-round all play a role in why people are choosing to live here and stay here.

And as more national attention lands on cities like ours, it’s another reminder that what we experience every day is something people across the country are actively looking for.

👉🏼 Click Here: See Where Virginia Beach Ranked

Virginia Beach has been selected to host an official James Beard Foundation dinner, and it’s bringing together a lineup of standout local chefs for one unforgettable night.

“Beard at the Beach: A Coastal Virginia Celebration of James Beard”

The event will feature a multi-course menu created by chefs from across the region, each putting their own spin on dishes that reflect the coastal flavors Virginia Beach is known for. It’s part of a national series from the James Beard Foundation, which spotlights cities and chefs shaping the future of food.

Tickets are limited, and events like this tend to sell out quickly. It’s a rare chance to experience this level of dining right here in VB, and a sign of how far the local food scene has come.

👉🏼 Click Here: Read the official press release

Virginia Beach now has an official song.

City Council recently voted to make “Driving East” by Celeste Kellogg the city’s official anthem. The song, released last year, centers around the feeling of heading back toward Virginia Beach, with lyrics about finding peace and calling it home.

If you’ve been to the State of the City this year, you may have already heard it. Kellogg performed the song live alongside a video featuring Mayor Bobby Dyer traveling across the city, which helped spark the idea to make it official.

City leaders say the song will now be used at community events and civic celebrations.

It’s a small but meaningful addition, and one more way the city is leaning into what makes Virginia Beach feel like home.

👉🏼 Click Here: Listen to the Official Song

MOCA is opening its doors and inviting the community in to experience its new home with a full-day celebration.

What to Expect:
• Museum-wide access to explore brand-new spaces
• Opening exhibitions: Nina Chanel Abney: The Pursuit of Happiness and Seamless: Art and Design
• Hands-on art activities for all ages
• Live performances and artist demos
• Community partners and local vendors

Event Details:
• Day: Saturday, May 2, 2026
• Time: 10am–4pm

A great chance to experience MOCA’s new chapter and spend the day surrounded by art, creativity, and the community.

👉🏼 Click Here: Learn More About Community Day

What started as a side passion quickly became something more. After two years and two babies, Kirsten chose to go all in on Dainty & Dazzled, creating a business that allows both creativity and flexibility for her family. She says it’s been the most fulfilling decision, and she’s incredibly grateful for the community that has supported her every step of the way.

At Dainty & Dazzled, community is at the heart of everything they do. From collaborating with local, women-owned businesses to curating events that bring people together, they’re passionate about creating meaningful experiences. Their goal is to support and uplift the women around them while building connections that go far beyond jewelry.

👉🏼 Click Here: Learn more at Dainty & Dazzled

The ViBe Creative District is coming alive for Taste of the ViBe, with tastings, local makers, and a block party all in one afternoon.

Sip & Savor Tour
• Day: Friday, May 8, 2026
• Time: 12pm–4pm

What to Expect:
• Behind-the-scenes stops at some of ViBe’s most popular culinary and craft spots
• 8 curated tasting stations
• Meet local business owners and hear their stories
• Premium tastings + custom artisan gifts

Good to Know:
• Your ticket includes entry to the Block Party after
• Limited to just 100 guests

Economic Development Week Block Party
• Day: Friday, May 8, 2026
• Time: 4pm–6:30pm
• Location: ViBe Park

What to Expect:
• Live music from BJ Griffin & Friends
• Local food trucks
• Interactive art throughout the park
• Community celebration with city leadership

👉🏼 Click Here: Learn More About Taste of the ViBe