Top 17 Must-See Spectator Sports Events in Virginia for 2016
Virginia's diverse landscapes—from pristine beaches and towering mountains to premier venues—and enthusiastic communities host hundreds of sporting events each year. These spectator-friendly competitions offer thrilling action up close as you cheer on athletes in your favorite sports. Discover 17 standout professional and amateur events from 2016 that captivated audiences statewide.
Virginia Gold Cup — The Plains
May 7
A cherished Virginia tradition since 1922 at Great Meadow, this premier horse race draws over 50,000 attendees. Beyond the exhilarating races, enjoy tailgating, Jack Russell Terrier races, hat and tent contests, vendor shopping, and signature Mint Julep cocktails. Purchase tickets and tailgating spaces.
USA Ultimate Beach Championship — Virginia Beach
May 14-15
This national ultimate frisbee showdown on Virginia Beach sands elevates the fast-paced sport blending soccer, football, and aerial skills. Non-stop action, endurance, and sandy challenges make it a must-watch for fans.
LPGA Kingsmill Championship — Williamsburg
May 16-22
Witness elite women professionals vie for over $1 million in prizes on Williamsburg's renowned course. Meet pros, snag autographs, and note: kids 17 and under enter free. Secure your tickets here.
Dominion Riverrock — Richmond
May 20-22
Virginia's largest free outdoor sports and music festival features rock climbing, kayaking, biking, slacklining, paddleboarding, and more. Bring your dog for the jumping contest. Music lineup includes G. Love & Special Sauce, Keller Williams’ Grateful Grass, and Futurebirds. Join Trail Runs, 5K Mud Run, or hikes.
North American Sand Soccer Championships — Virginia Beach
June 10-12
The world's biggest sand soccer tournament unites 11,000+ players from 950 teams across all levels, drawing 200,000 fans along 22 beach blocks. Pros battle for cash prizes on this top resort beach.
Air Force Association Cycling Classic — Arlington
June 11-12
Arlington's premier cycling event welcomes all abilities, spotlighting national pros from the National Criterium Calendar. Catch top names in competitive cycling.
Bike Virginia Tour — Woodstock and Harrisonburg
June 24-29
Connect with cyclists, ride trails, or volunteer for registration, parking, hospitality, and more. Hundreds of volunteers make this tour possible.
2016 USA BMX ‘Stars and Stripes’ National BMX Tournament — Woodbridge
July 1-3
Olympic-qualifying BMX action with pros shredding tracks, part of a 30-race national series. Expect 6,000+ spectators and athletes.
Great Meadow International and FEI Nations Cup — The Plains
July 8-10
Prep site for the U.S. Olympic equestrian team, hosting the first U.S. FEI Nations Cup. Elite show jumping, dressage, and cross-country, plus local shops and vineyards.
VA Commonwealth Games — Lynchburg
July 22-24 (main weekend)
Liberty University's amateur festival spans 60 sports for all ages and skills. Opening ceremonies draw thousands; past events saw 9,000+ athletes.
EVP Beach Volleyball World Championships — Hampton
Aug. 12-13
National tour finale at Paradise Ocean Club with 5,000 athletes from 18 events. Enjoy elite play plus sponsor promotions.
East Coast Surfing Championships — Virginia Beach
Aug. 21-28
North America's oldest surf contest (world's second-oldest continuous) features 100+ pros and 300 amateurs over 54 years across eight beach blocks, with music and activities.
Battle at Bristol — Bristol
September 10
Virginia Tech vs. Tennessee football at Bristol Motor Speedway drew 160,000 fans. Check resale for tickets.
Hampton Roads Hero Games — Hampton Roads
Oct. 5-8
Honor firefighters, police, EMS with 5K, CrossFit, powerlifting, golf, and challenges for service members and families.
US Figure Skating South Atlantic Regional — Ashburn
Oct. 5-9
Top skaters from 10 states/DC compete at Ashburn Ice House. Top four advance to Sectionals—spot future Olympians.
GO Fest — Roanoke
October 14-16
Free 'Go Outside Festival' promotes biking, climbing, hiking, camping. Demo gear, enjoy music, races, 175+ workshops. Pro stunts in BMX, trials, lumberjack sports; dog dock jumping.
Dominion Charity Classic — Richmond
October 31-November 6
PGA Champions Tour at Country Club of Virginia's James River Course stars legends like Tom Watson, Bernhard Langer. Richmond's first since 1990.
Virginia's sports scene thrills spectators with interactive, high-energy events. Relive these 2016 highlights or draw inspiration for future visits.
