Virginia International PAN Fest

The Virginia International PAN Fest is a musical adventure set to the soothing sounds of steel pan music. The festival’s casual atmosphere appeals to the island community and people of all ages who are intrigued by the unique sounds and style of steel drum music! Fusing together the rhythm of steel bands, ocean breezes, and great international food, the breathtaking Virginia Beach oceanfront becomes an “island paradise” for the weekend.

Co-produced with the Virginia Arts Festival, the Virginia International PAN Fest at its core is a steel drum band competition featuring over 20 high school, college, and community bands from throughout the United States. Bands attend workshops on Friday at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. These workshops are led by nationally-known steel drum artists and educators.

Friday evening features a concert in the 24th Street Park.

On Saturday bands compete for ratings and the coveted Grand Champion Award. In the evening, steel drum headliners play on the main stage.

All performances are free to the public.

The Virginia International PAN Fest has been recognized as one of the American Bus Association’s Top 100 Events. The festival also holds membership in the Student Youth Tour Association (SYTA).

Entertainment Schedule:

Friday, May 6

6:00pm-7:30pm, Nature's Child Reggae Ambassadors

8:00pm-10:00pm, NIU Steel Band featuring Liam Teague

Saturday, May 7

10:00am-11:45am, Elementary and middle school steel band competition

11:50am-6:00pm, High school, private studio, and community steel band competition

7:00pm-8:15pm, Jonathan Scales Fourchestra

8:15pm-8:45pm, PAN Fest awards ceremony

8:45pm-10:00pm, NIU Steel Band featuring Liam Teague