Virginia International Tattoo 2026

Don't miss the Virginia International Tattoo ~ A Scottish Tradition with an American Soul!

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What is the Tattoo?

The centuries-old tradition of Tattoo originated as a signal from drummers instructing Dutch innkeepers near military garrisons to “Doe den Tap-too” or “turn off the tap”. Hearing the call “Tap-too” soldiers would return to their barracks for an evening roll call. The ensuing parade of soldiers evolved into a military marching band performance now known worldwide as “Tattoo.”

The Tattoos seen across the world today are ceremonial performances of military music by massed bands. Each Tattoo is influenced by the culture of the country they represent. Fans of these massed spectacles of music and might flock to the world’s great Tattoos including Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo in Scotland, Basel Tattoo in Switzerland, and Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo in Canada. But the greatest Tattoo in the United States, and rivaling the largest in the world, is the Virginia International Tattoo.

The Virginia International Tattoo blends tradition and entertainment in the form of bagpipers, military bands, fife and drum corps and drill teams that make up the hunderds of performers who come to Virginia once a year for the festival.

The 2026 Virginia International Tattoo will feature an incredible international cast of more than 800 civilian and military performers from six nations.

At the heart of every preformance will be an emotional and grateful tribute to our Soldiers, Sailors and Marines. With stirring music, heartfelt tributes to those who have served, and appearances by some very special guests, this Tattoo will remind us that as Americans, we enjoy freedoms made possible by 250 years of Service & Sacrifice.

Don't miss the Virginia International Tattoo ~ A Scottish Tradition with an American Soul!

Tues, April 14, 2026

Arrive in Virginia Beach, VA to begin your three night stay at Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center Enjoy an included dinner at Waterman's restaurant at the oceanfront.

Wed, April 15, 2026

Start your day with a hearty included Breakfast at your hotel, then set out for an exciting itinerary that includes the Chrysler Museum of Art, Nauticus and the Battleship Wisconsin. Enjoy Lunch at the Norfolk Grille located within Nauticus, followed by a visit to the MacArthur Memorial. You will be treated to an ice cream cone at Doumar's before wrapping up the evening with dinner at your leisure in Town Center.

B, L

Thurs,April 16, 2026

Start your day with a hearty included Breakfast at your hotel before heading out to explore the fascinating Military Aviation Museum. Enjoy an included dinner at Mermaid Winery in downtown Norfolk, setting the stage for the highlight of the trip - the spectacular International Tattoo performances.

B, D

Fri, April 17, 2026

After savoring your final included Breakfast at your hotel, it's time to check out and begin the journey home, with a delightful stop af the Norfolk Botanical Gardens to cap off the tour.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner

Your Travel Package Includes:

Comfortable deluxe motorcoach transportation
Three-night stay at Hyatt Place Virginia Beach Town Center with convenient luggage handling services
Daily hotel breakfasts (three total)
One lunch and two delicious dinners
Admission to all listed attractions
Services of a knowledgeable local guide throughout the tour