CHESAPEAKE, Va. — There's a big party in Chesapeake this weekend!
The Chesapeake Jubilee opens at the City Park on Thursday, May 18, and organizers have promised a weekend full of new entertainment, rides, and family fun for all ages.
The carnival returned to Chesapeake last year after a two-year hiatus. Organizers said they're working hard to make this year's Jubilee even better.
Riding past the colorful tents and taking in the sweet smell of funnel cake brings volunteers like Whit Gibbs back to his childhood.
“Grew up out here," Gibbs said. "I really enjoy it.”
He’s one of 100 volunteers that makes the Chesapeake Jubilee happen year after year. And he is following in his dad Berkley's footsteps.
“My dad has been out here since the first Jubilee," Gibbs said. "He was a chairman, I was a second-generation chairman.”
This year the Jubilee hits a big milestone!
“This is our 40th year," said Chesapeake Jubilee Executive Director Stephanie Welke. "Started in 1983 over at Greenbrier Mall”
Welke said they’ll welcome 25,000 to 35,000 people throughout the weekend and there’s something for everyone to try!
"We have pig racing and Worlds of Wonder," Welke said. "Which is like sword swallowing, flame-throwing, all sorts of stuff. And then of course life music on the stage all weekend.”
She said the admission price goes a long way.
"Parking is $10, admission is $3," Welke said. "Once you have admission, all the live music and family acts are included. You can purchase wristbands and ride tickets online, we have a ticketing site.”
Once all the setup is done, Gibbs looks forward to one thing every Jubilee.
"We like to go up to the front and sit and watch the crowd come in when we have that downtime," Gibbs said. "Just seeing all the folks come in and enjoy themselves.”
There are tons of food vendors around the festival grounds. But, vendors won’t start serving up funnel cake, fries, turkey legs, and more until Friday night. The rides are open from 6 to 10 Thursday. The entire Jubilee opens Friday at 5 p.m., at 10 a.m. on Saturday, and at 12 p.m. on Sunday.
A spokeswoman for the City of Chesapeake says there are no planned lane or road closures this weekend. She said in Great Bridge, the southbound 168 Bypass Bridge should remain at two lanes throughout the weekend.
Meanwhile, scheduled work on the Centerville Turnpike Bridge finished up early and the road was fully reopened on Thursday afternoon.
Family Acts
New this year, the Jubilee is bringing the "World of Wonders" show to the city, according to a news release. It'll feature several thrilling acts, including sword swallowers and fire eaters.
Hot Dog pig races and Texas Tommy's Wild West Review show will also appear at the Jubilee for the first time this year.
"We had a great response to our family acts at the 2022 Jubilee so we searched the country for new entertainers to round out our lineup this year," said Stephanie Welke, the Jubilee's Executive Director, in the release.
Each act will have multiple performances throughout each day.
Music
The Jubilee will share the stage with several local musicians throughout the weekend. To cap it all off, attendees will hear a tribute to Lynyrd Skynrd.
"Second Helping: The American Lynyrd Skynyrd Show" has paid tribute to the band and its fans for the last 30 years nationwide, according to a news release. This weekend, Second Helping is making its Chesapeake Debut.
Some of the other performers include "Just Standing," "Magg Dylan" and "The Funky Blues Kings."
Amusement
"Amusements of America" is returning as the Jubilee's carnival midway provider, according to the release.
The provider brings rides, games, and food stands to the weekend. Some of those rides include the "Wild Mouse" and a Ferris wheel.
Special Appearances
Football fans, keep an eye out for special appearances from D.C. football legends.
The Washington Commanders and OrthoVirginia are partnering to host a "virtual combine." It'll give attendees an inside look at how players stay healthy on the field.
According to a news release, professional football players Josh Morgan, Santana Moss, Jordan Reed, and Fred Smoot will make appearances throughout the weekend.
"The virtual combine... is another awesome activity for families to participate in at the 2023 Chesapeake Jubilee," Welke said in a news release. "I know we have a lot of Commanders fans in this area so come on out and meet a pro and Major Tuddy, too!"
Major Tuddy is the Commanders' mascot.
Food
What's a carnival without snacks? Welke said there will be plenty of fun festival food to try this weekend.
"It's my favorite time of the year... funnel cakes, fried Oreos, BBQ, fresh fries... I try one of each," said Welke.
Admission is $3 per person and runs from May 18 through 21. It's at the Chesapeake City Park on City Park Drive.
Don't forget the firework show Saturday night!