It’s one of Virginia Beach’s oldest races, and registration is now open

VIRGINIA BEACH — The 42^nd annual Virginia Beach Neptune Festival’s 8K Race is coming up.

This year’s competition is on Sept. 29 at 8 a.m. It will include entertainment along the course as part of the festival’s Boardwalk Weekend.

Organizers said the new flat and fast course with ocean views is great for running or walking – even a 26-yard Crab Crawl is available for the age 5-and-under group.

The start and finish lines are located at Neptune’s Park at 31^st Street and Atlantic Avenue. Race spectators are welcome.

The festival’s weekend includes 35 free concerts, art show with 250 artists, Grand Parade and more.

Entrants will also receive a t-shirt, finisher medal and one entry ticket to the Neptune Festival International Sand Sculpting Championship, taking place the same weekend, according to a news release.

There’s also a post-race party at Neptune’s Park at 31^st Street and Atlantic Avenue, featuring live music, Bojangles’ biscuits, bagels, fruit, and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as beer for those age 21 and up, organizers said.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Virginia Beach Lifeguard Association, which works to educate locals and visitors about safe practices in the ocean and on the beach, according to a news release.

Registration is required online here, or call 757-498-0215.