VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) – Dozens came out to ‘Lead the Wave’ at Mount Trashmore Park Friday night, kicking off Something in the Water while celebrating small businesses.
The free event was open to the public and featured live entertainment, food, business opportunities and Something in the Water ticket giveaways.
Carleigh Kearney tells 10 On Your Side she came out for a good time and has her fingers crossed for a pair of tickets to the festival.
“It’s good for everybody to get together and do stuff. Just have fun,” Kearney stated.
For singer Hope Sheree, it’s about showing support for Virginia Beach native Pharrell Williams. Sheree is a part of his choir and has performed at past festivals.
“Anytime he’s doing something I just want to be a part of it because it’s so positive and inspirational. I’m here and it’s a good time,” Sheree said.
Vendors that attended the event included Virginia Beach Public Library, Max Media – 100.5 Vibe, United Way, Coastal Edge, NAMI and Campus757.
Bennett Wales, United Souls, DJ Bee of Fresh Radio, Skuzii, and Gabe Niles performed.
Virginia Sen. Aaron Rouse handed out SITW festival passes to winning attendees.
“It’s like the appetizer before the big meal of Something In The Water Weekend and it’s a way for us to support our small businesses here throughout the city of Virginia Beach,” Rouse told 10 On Your Side, “this is about more than a music festival. It’s about a sense of belonging.”
Mayor Bobby Dyer told us Virginia Beach will be the city of hope and can-do, and it will all start with Something in the Water in two weeks.
“This inaugural event aims to engage and inspire members of the Virginia Beach community,” said Jeff Smith, business coordinator at the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development.
