Events at Peabody's Nightclub, Virginia Beach

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16 November 2019 Saturday / 09:00 PM

Peabody's Nightclub, Virginia Beach

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26 July 2018 Thursday / 10:00 PM

Peabody's Nightclub, Virginia Beach

About Peabody’s Nightclub

Peabody’s Nightclub is a legendary oceanfront dance club in Virginia Beach, located at 209 21st Street (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). Open since the late 1960s, it bills itself as a “high energy” club that has been “serving Hampton Roads since 1967” (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). Today it’s strictly a 21+ venue (with special college-night exceptions) and one of the largest nightclub spaces on the Virginia Beach boardwalk. In fact, local sources proudly tout it as having “the biggest dance floor in VB” (www.visitvirginiabeach.com). Peabody’s attracts a mixed crowd of tourists and locals; no wonder it’s celebrated for its packed, 360-degree dance parties, booming sound and state-of-the-art lighting setup (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com) (www.vybeful.com). Walking in one is hit by “pulsating lights” and “dynamic visuals,” creating “a sensory feast” for music fans (www.vybeful.com). Signature features include top-40 and EDM DJs, live acts of many genres, and $3 happy-hour specials early in the evening (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com) (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). Over the decades it has remained a beachside staple – long hailed as “a beacon” of Virginia Beach’s nightlife scene (www.vybeful.com) – where energetic crowds gather nightly until closing time.

Events and Programming

Peabody’s packs its calendar with dance parties and concerts almost every week year-round. The club is open Thu–Sat each week (and occasionally Sun) (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). Weekly specials are legendary: **Thursday nights** are “Ladies Night” (women enter free all night) and **Friday nights** are billed as “College Night” (free entry with a college ID) (www.visitvirginiabeach.com). Saturdays are the biggest party night, usually with the heaviest beat-driven DJ lineups. Beyond these club nights, Peabody’s regularly books touring DJs and bands. Recent lineups have included top EDM, bass and hip-hop acts like Borgore, DJ Drama, Acraze and Sickick, as well as metal/rock bands such as Sevendust and Fit For A King (www.viberate.com) (www.viberate.com). The club often hosts theme parties and holidays too – for example, elaborate Halloween and New Year’s events (with costumes, giveaways, and special performances) are held annually. Ticket prices vary by event: most club nights charge a modest cover (often $10–$15) while big concerts or themed parties can go higher. In general, tickets for headline shows might range from around $20 up to $40 depending on the artist and demand. Many events sell out, so fans are advised to watch the venue’s announcements and grab tickets early. (On “Ladies Night” and “College Night” you can usually just line up at the door with your ID (www.visitvirginiabeach.com).)

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for concerts and special events at Peabody’s are typically available through official outlets well in advance. The club’s team sells tickets via its own box office in Virginia Beach and through authorized online sellers (no walk-up scalpers). Popular shows often go on sale as soon as they are announced — sometimes months in advance for big names — so checking the venue’s calendar is recommended. For many events, tickets can also be purchased at the door on show night until they’re sold out. Keep in mind that for free nights (e.g. Ladies Night, College Night) no ticket is needed ─ just arrive early to secure entry. Standard covers on club nights are usually charged at the door (often around $10-$15), while headliner concerts and festivals cost more. Early-bird or presale tickets, if offered, typically appear on local event listings or the club’s social media pages; fans sometimes sign up for the venue’s newsletter to get presale codes. In general, it’s safest to buy in advance for widely known acts. Doors usually open well before showtime (often 1.5–2 hours early) (seatgeek.com), so arriving early lets you avoid lines for entry or the bar.

Seating and Layout

Peabody’s is primarily a standing-room nightclub with a vast dance floor that spans the center of the room. There is minimal fixed seating: the best vantage point is usually right in front of the stage or DJ booth, where you can fully feel the thumping sound system. Along the sides and rear there are high-top tables and a few bench areas for resting, as well as a long bar where people can perch. A positive note: the club’s layout is described as “both expansive and intimate,” meaning it can accommodate large crowds while still offering small “cozy corners” for a quieter drink (www.vybeful.com). For example, near the walls or in raised alcoves you can find slightly roomier spots away from the densest part of the floor. If you prefer less bass, avoid standing right next to the main speaker stacks — those get very loud. Acoustically, the sound is loud and clear throughout the floor. (Depending on the event, the stage isn’t too high, so even at the back you’ll see the performers.) In short, there are no bad seats for a dance club — everyone stands and dances — but die-hard fans often wander toward the front rails after doors open. A small VIP section is usually available near the stage (often corner tables with bottle service), which must be reserved ahead of time.

Getting There and Parking

Peabody’s is easy to find: it’s at 209 21st Street, right off Atlantic Avenue along the boardwalk (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). The closest major intersection is 21st & Pacific (one block west of Atlantic). If driving, several city-operated parking lots are within a short walk of the club. In fact, one public lot is “directly across the street” from the club (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com), and a larger municipal lot sits on 21st near Pacific Avenue (about 2 blocks away). These beach area lots are metered or have flat fees (check posted rates), but notably the city offers free 2-hour street parking on Atlantic Avenue during the off-season (November through March) (virginiabeach.gov). Street parking along 21st, Pacific and adjacent avenues is abundant but sometimes time-limited, so plan accordingly. Public transit can drop you even closer: during the summer months the free “VB Wave” trolley (Route 30) runs along Atlantic Avenue every 15-20 minutes (gohrt.com), and the boardwalk shuttle (Route 31) extends down to 18th Street. Local Hampton Roads Transit buses also serve the oceanfront area. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and taxis are popular; drop-offs are usually made on 21st Street (behind the club, off Atlantic). One tip: if you’re staying at a nearby oceanfront hotel (like the Holiday Inn or Sundial Inn just blocks away (www.visitvirginiabeach.com)), it’s often easier to walk, since the entire area is very walkable after dark.

Inside the Venue

Upon arrival, you’ll be subject to a standard ID and security check – remember that this is an indoor club/nightspot, so carry a valid photo ID. The main entrance leads into a high-energy space with a wraparound bar, DJ booth at one end, and balcony railing or seating at the other. The club has a full liquor bar serving beer, wine, mixed drinks and house cocktails (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). (Note: the famous “Hammer Time” happy hour from 7–9pm kicks off many nights with $3 drink and food specials (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com), so if you arrive early you can enjoy cheap cocktails.) Peabody’s atmosphere is very lively – think of it as a “sensory feast” of sound and light (www.vybeful.com). You’ll hear top 40, EDM and hip-hop pounding from start to finish, punctuated by bright strobes, lasers and fog machines. The environment stays energetic late into the night (most weekend nights run until around 2:00 AM (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com)). Staff are around the bar and floor to help; there are restrooms and usually an (optional) coat check for shows. Most nights are casual dress, and a local observer has noted that men typically wear nice slacks or jeans with a shirt (although no formal dress code is enforced) (www.tripadvisor.com). Cameras and video cameras are typically discouraged – the focus is on dancing. Cell service generally works well inside, but don’t expect public Wi-Fi. Keep your belongings in sight, and know that the club enforces bag-check for large items. If it’s a concert or special event, check your tickets and arrive early: lines can form at peak times, and as noted above doors may open 1–2 hours before showtime (seatgeek.com).

Nearby Amenities

Peabody’s prime location means all sorts of amenities are within easy reach. For pre- or post-club meals, numerous restaurants and bars line Atlantic and Pacific Avenues. Within a block you’ll find family-friendly spots and beach pubs like Hidden Pearl (inside the nearby Holiday Inn at 24th), 21st Street Seafood Company (a casual bar/restaurant on Pacific at 21st), and Azteca’s Mexican Grill (Atlantic & 19th). National chains (Subway, Taco Bell, etc.) and local pizza joints are also walking distance. Hotels are literally a stone’s throw away: the Sundial Inn and Atrium Resort are just behind the club (www.visitvirginiabeach.com), and across Atlantic at 23rd you have the Oceanfront Holiday Inn and Wyndham. If you travel a few blocks along Atlantic you’ll reach the bustling boardwalk, with huge hotels such as the Hilton (26th Street) and oceanfront shopping/museums. When deciding what to do, you can easily plan dinner or drinks near these hotels before hitting the club. As a general tip, arriving in the resort area a couple hours before showtime gives you time to park or grab a bite nearby; after closing, the oceanfront hotels also have shuttle or taxi stands (note however that city rules limit cruising in cars along Atlantic late at night).

What Makes This Venue Special

Peabody’s stands out for its history and atmosphere. It isn’t just another nightclub – it’s part of Virginia Beach lore. A published guide calls it “a cornerstone” of the local club scene, noting its legacy of “legendary parties, unforgettable memories, and unadulterated fun” (www.vybeful.com). Unlike trendier one-hit-wonder venues, Peabody’s has adapted over decades, consistently drawing crowds of all ages. Musicians love it too, because it combines strong club amenities with an audience ready to dance with the same party energy one might find at a festival. The room’s lighting and sound are built for drama: any photographer or visitor will mention the “pulsating lights,” giant speakers and club-heavy smoke that set a special tone (www.vybeful.com). Themed events are another hallmark – for years it’s been famous for its holiday bashes (notably Halloween and New Year’s Eve) and for keeping things fresh with nights dedicated to various genres (Oldies, EDM, hip-hop, etc.). Locally, many people have stories of “first concert” or “first big night out” at Peabody’s, giving it a beloved status beyond just any bar. It’s also one of the few remaining venues right on the boardwalk that survived period crackdowns on nightlife, meaning it carries extra nostalgia for longtime residents. All these factors – the size of the dance floor, the state-of-art production gear, the continuity since 1967 (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com) (www.visitvirginiabeach.com), and the affectionate crowd culture – make Peabody’s feel like a true one-of-a-kind beachside nightclub.

Visitor Tips and Information

Peabody’s can be a wild party, so a little planning goes a long way. Here are some tips: - **Accessibility:** The club is on ground level and generally wheelchair accessible, but bathrooms may be tight. If you have special needs, call ahead to confirm. - **Dress and Age:** There is no strict dress code (www.tripadvisor.com), but note the strict age policy: normally 21+, though Thursday and some special nights allow 18+ with ID (www.visitvirginiabeach.com). Carry valid government ID (driver’s license or passport) if you’re coming to party. - **Doors and Timing:** Doors swing open well before show time (often 90–120 minutes prior) (seatgeek.com). Arrive early for early shows to get a good spot in line and enjoy the “Hammer Time” specials. Most big nights end around 2:00 AM (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com), when the music cuts off. - **Tickets:** If a show interests you, buy tickets early, especially if it’s a paid concert. For free events like Ladies Night or College Night, show up early and be prepared to wait in line if needed. - **What to Bring:** ID and cash (cards are accepted at the bar, but smaller cover charges can be cash-only). Small purses or clear bags are fine, but large backpacks and outside alcohol are not allowed. Leave large cameras at home – pocket phones are okay for quick snapshots, but professional cameras/recording gear are prohibited. - **Good Spots:** Standing on the main floor gets you closest to the action; those wanting to chill can use the bar or high tables on the sides. Keep an eye on your valuables; popular spots include the railing in front or the “cozy corners” along the back wall. - **After the Show:** Taxis and rideshares converge on 21st Street (behind the club). If the lot is full, nearby parking is available on streets one block north on Pacific or downtown. Note that Atlantic Avenue often has two-hour free parking at night during winter (virginiabeach.gov). - **Common Mistakes:** Don’t show up without ID (no talk of fake IDs— they strictly check). Avoid wearing team jerseys or overly casual cut-offs. And remember, even though the club is high-energy, rowdy behavior or drug use is policed – stay safe and party responsibly.

How do I buy tickets for a show at Peabody’s, and do they sell out?

Tickets are typically sold through Peabody’s official channel or authorized sellers well before the event. For big concerts, it’s best to buy online as soon as they go on sale (often weeks or months in advance). Many club nights have only a small cover charge at the door (or free entry for special nights), so tickets may not be needed for those. Popular headline shows can sell out, so plan ahead and get your tickets early.

What are the usual ticket prices for Peabody’s events?

Cover charges vary widely. On normal club nights, expect a modest cover (often $10–$15). Special events and concerts have higher costs, typically in the $20–$40 range depending on the artist. Theme nights like Ladies Night or College Night are often free for qualifying guests. If in doubt, check the event listing – it usually notes the price or cover charge. Remember that tax and fees may apply, but no matter what, buying early often ensures you pay face value rather than a premium.

Where is Peabody’s Nightclub located and how do I get there?

Peabody’s is at 209 21st Street, Virginia Beach (the corner of 21st Street and Pacific Avenue, one block off Atlantic Ave). If you drive, there are city parking lots within a block (one is right across the street) and street parking on adjacent roads. Public transit and the free summer trolley run close by; the Atlantis Avenue trolley (VB Wave Route 30) drops off directly at Atlantic & 21st during the season (gohrt.com). Rideshares and taxis can stop on 21st Street behind the club. If you're staying on the boardwalk, it’s just a short walk west from Atlantic Ave and the Central 19th Station.

Is there parking available, and what does it cost?

Yes. The city operates several public parking lots near 21st Street (one right across from Peabody’s (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com)). These lots usually charge a flat fee or hourly rate. Street parking is also common on Pacific and Atlantic Avenues. Importantly, Atlantic Avenue offers 2-hour free parking nightly during the off-season (Nov 1–Mar 31) (virginiabeach.gov). Just be mindful of posted signs and time limits. On busy nights, arriving early helps you secure a spot. Using the boardwalk trolley or a ride service can be a hassle-free alternative if you prefer not to park.

What is the seating arrangement and are there reserved seats?

Peabody’s is primarily a standing-room club. There are no fixed seats on the main dance floor – everyone stands and dances. A few high-top tables and benches line the perimeter for resting, and there is a bar counter with stools. The best spots on a concert night are usually right in front of the stage or DJ booth. A semi-private VIP section (with couches or bottle service tables) exists in one corner; those are reserved in advance and are not fixed seating. Since it is an active nightclub, think of most of the space as open floor rather than theater seating.

What is the dress code at Peabody’s?

There is no formal dress code. However, patrons generally dress “smart casual” or club-friendly. Men typically wear nice jeans or slacks with a collared or casual shirt, and women wear summer dresses or jeans with blouses. Flip-flops and beachwear are usually frowned upon. In short, avoid overly casual or beach attire; nicer casual clothes will help ensure entry (www.tripadvisor.com).

What items are not allowed inside?

Common prohibited items include outside food or drinks (the bar serves all beverages inside), large backpacks, weapons or sharp objects, and any illegal substances. Peabody’s has a bag check for security. Photography equipment beyond a phone is not allowed (no DSLRs or video cams). Basically, bring only your ID, phone, and wallet. Smoking isn’t allowed indoors by law, so use sidewalk areas.

Is Peabody’s wheelchair accessible?

Peabody’s is on one ground-level floor and should be generally wheelchair accessible via its main entrance. There are ramps and an open floorplan. However, doorways can be narrow and the restrooms are traditional nightclub style. Patrons requiring assistance should contact the club in advance. As with any busy venue, staff will do their best to accommodate guests, but seating is limited so accessibility can be tight.

What forms of ID are accepted and what is the minimum age?

Valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, passport, military ID) is required for entry. The club is strictly 21+ on most nights. (The only exception is College Night on Fridays, when 18–20 year-olds with a college/university ID are admitted (www.visitvirginiabeach.com).) If you look 30 or older it’s a good idea to have ID handy, as staff are vigilant about age rules. No minors are allowed on Sat/ and Thu nights without exceptions.

Are there food and drinks available inside?

Yes. The venue has a full-service bar offering beer, wine, spirits and mixed drinks (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). Light snacks (like popcorn, nachos or wings) may be available during happy hour specials (“Hammer Time” from 7–9pm (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com)). There is no full kitchen, so larger meals are not served. Outside food and drinks are not allowed, so plan to buy from the bar once inside. The bar stays open late, and prices are typical nightclub rates (usually cash and card accepted at the bar).

Can I re-enter if I leave the club?

In general, re-entry is not guaranteed at nightclub events. If you leave, the staff may mark your hand or wrist upon exit (if they allow it) to let you come back. Typically, once you are out, you may not re-enter without buying a new ticket or cover again. It’s best to settle everything (coat check, restroom, etc.) before going outside. If bad weather or other emergency arises, speak to security about your options.

How early should I arrive before a show or party?

It depends on how eager you are. Doors often open 1–2 hours before the advertised start (seatgeek.com). Arriving early (especially for big acts) lets you avoid long lines and snag a good spot. For regular club nights, many fans arrive just after opening to hit the happy hour specials, then dance back by midnight. If you’re interested in front-row viewing or crowd-free entry, plan to get there as soon as doors open.

When does Peabody’s typically close?

Most weekend events run until around 2:00 AM. In fact, special events like a Halloween party have been scheduled from 7:00 PM until 2:00 AM (www.peabodysvirginiabeach.com). Weeknights and themed nights may close earlier (often around midnight or 1 AM), but always check the specific event listing. By law, music and alcohol service stops at 2:00 AM at the oceanfront, so expect last call around that time on party nights.

What nearby hotels or restaurants are convenient for a Peabody’s outing?

There are plenty. Within a block of 21st Street you’ll find casual spots like the Hidden Pearl (Holiday Inn Oceanside, 24th St.), 21st Street Seafood (Pacific Ave.), Azteca’s Mexican Grill, plus deli and pizza counters along Atlantic. If you need to stay nearby, the Sundial Inn and Atrium Resort are literally around the corner (www.visitvirginiabeach.com). Several oceanfront hotels on Atlantic (Holiday Inn at 26th, Wyndham, etc.) are just a short walk east. All these areas have dining and bars for pre-drinks and meals. (Tip: boardwalk restaurants and bars from 18th to 24th make a fun crawl before or after Peabody’s.)

What is the capacity of Peabody’s Nightclub?

Exact official capacity isn’t published, but it’s considered a medium-sized club. Industry listings suggest on the order of a few hundred (around 200+ people) (venuemaps.net). The large dance floor can fit a crowd, but it’s not a massive arena. For reference, the venue holds roughly the same number as a busy bar or small theater. (So don’t expect thousands of seats.)