VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Jeep Fest is coming back to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront for a second year, with a third day added.

The Jeep Fest this year will be held from Friday, Nov. 10 through Sunday, Nov.12, and is hosted by the City of Virginia Beach, Beach Events and IMGoing. This event is the only time of the year the public is allowed to drive of the sands of Virginia Beach.

It started in 2022 as a way to bring people to the city during the off-season for the hotels, restaurants and businesses.

“I thought rain or shine, what can we do on the beach? Let’s put some Jeeps out on the beach. Dig some holes and make some hills and go crawl over them all-day,” said William Younce, Director of Beach Events at IMGoing.

According to Younce, the first event was a success. Their original goal was 500 participants and over 800 people participated during the inaugural event.

It brought in visitors from 18 different states.

“It is definitely a regional eastern thing. License plates as far as Illinois, New York, South Carolina and everything in between,” said Younce.

The event has continued to grow. Over 1000 Jeep enthusiasts are expected to attend the three-day event to celebrate all things Jeep. As of Thursday evening, 1,300 participants had registered and they expect more to register on-site.

It offers a unique opportunity, allowing Jeep owners to bring their vehicles on the sand.

“This is the only time that a Jeep driver can drive on the beach in Virginia Beach on the oceanfront,” said Younce.

Last year, participants loved the chance and opportunity.

“They are having the time of their lives. They actually get to bring their own Jeep, drive up some hills, drive down some holes we built out. It’s really fun. The Jeep community is a real thing,” said Younce.

Event Information

Some events included this year are a sunrise beach cruise, a beach sand obstacle course and a newly added special night course and LED show.

For those participating, on Thursday, Nov. 9 packet pickup will take place from noon – 8 p.m. at the Oceanfront Inn.

Jeeps will take on the sand starting at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 10 with the first Beach Cruise. Click here to view the schedule for the Beach Cruise and Sand Course.

The public is encouraged to watch the parade of Jeeps from the boardwalk. Several events are also open for the public, including Jeep Vendors and 4X4 expo where national industry leaders will showcase their products and services. Jeep Fest will also include a “Show and Shine,” where Jeep owners will be able to display their vehicles with the opportunity to receive awards.

Schedule of evening events:

Thursday, Nov. 9
VBJF Kick-Off Party
7 – 10 p.m.
Oceanfront Eats
(located inside Oceanfront Inn)

Friday, Nov. 10
Brew Down/Show & Shine
New Realm Brewing Co.
5 -9 p.m.
1209 Craft Lane, Virginia Beach VA
Judging @ 5:30 p.m.; Awards @ 8 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 11
Smartmouth Brewing Co.
313 32nd Street, Virginia Beach VA
5 – 8 p.m.
Amazing selection of craft brews
A gathering of the Jeepfest tribe!

Saturday, Nov. 11
Nighttime Sand Course & LED Show
Located on the VBJF Sand Course
8:30 – 10:30 p.m.
Live music!
Oceanfront Eats
(located in the Oceanfront Inn)
Boardwalk @ 29th St

Online registration for the beach cruises and sand obstacle course closed on Tuesday, Nov. 7. On site registration is still available. Additional information about Jeep Fest can be found on their website here.