The Chesapeake Jubilee returns May 18th-21st with new entertainment, thrilling rides, and family fun for all ages

CHESAPEAKE, Va. — The Chesapeake Jubilee, sponsored by Priority Automotive, returns to Chesapeake City Park May 18th-21st. After a successful 2022 event, following a two- year absence, Jubilee organizers have been working hard to bring the best in family entertainment to the community.

“We had 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,” says Stephanie Welke, Executive Director. New at the 2023 Jubilee is the World of Wonders show featuring over ten thrilling acts such as sword swallowers and fire eaters. The Hot Dog pig races and Texas Tommy’s Wild West Review show will also make their Chesapeake Jubilee debut. “Who doesn’t love the pig races?” laughs Welke. “Tommy’s Wild West Review is hysterical; it’s a perfect show for the whole family.” Each act, free with gate admission thanks to Dollar Tree and Washington Commanders/Ortho Virginia, will have multiple performances daily.

The Jubilee is known for having one of the best fireworks displays in the Southeast and this can’t-miss-event will return on Saturday night, presented once again by world famous fireworks producers, Zambelli Internationale.

Welke said the Jubilee also has some great local musical entertainment throughout the weekend. On Sunday afternoon, the performances culminate with Second Helping: The American Lynyrd Skynyrd Show at 3:30pm on the Main Stage. For over thirty years, Second Helping has paid tribute to Lynyrd Skynyrd and the band’s fans by performing the iconic music at venues across the country. With ten members including multiple guitarists, vocalists, a drummer, and keyboardist, Second Helping strives to bring the most realistic Lynyrd Skynyrd concert experience to fans as they possibly can. Skynyrd members such as Artimus Pyle have even played with the bands over the years! “Chesapeake, you will not want to miss this show,” says Stephanie Welke, Executive Director. “Whether you’re a true Skynyrd fan or just know the hits, it’s going to be a great performance.”

Amusements of America will return as the Jubilee’s carnival midway provider, sharing their arsenal of rides, games, and food stands. This year, the family-owned operators boast a digital ticketing system, FunTagg. “Our new FunTagg system is more efficient for our customers, our company, and our fair partners, making purchasing tickets easier than ever” says Dominic Vivona Jr., owner of Amusements of America. “We look forward to showing off our new system at the Chesapeake Jubilee.”

Welke wants to make sure the festival food isn’t overlooked; “it’s my favorite time of the year...funnel cakes, fried Oreos, BBQ, fresh fries...I try one of each,” laughs Welke.

The Chesapeake Jubilee, presented by Priority Automotive, returns to City Park May 18th-21st. Admission is only $3 per person. For tickets and information visit www.chesapeakejubilee.org.