Sea Side Shellebration - World Turtle Day

Location of First Landing State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: The Bay Lab (inside the Main Visitor Center)
Main Park Address: First Landing State Park, 2500 Shore Dr., Virginia Beach, VA 23451.

When

May 23, 2026. 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Happy World Turtle Day!

Join Rangers on Saturday, May 23 in "Shellebration" of World Turtle Day. Turtle themed activities will be provided at the station located outside of the Bay Lab. Meet our Animal Ambassadors, Rudee and Lynnhaven, the diamondback terrapins, and learn about their important history and role in our local ecosystem.

“World Turtle Day, celebrated annually on May 23 since 2000, is a global initiative created by American Tortoise Rescue to protect turtles and tortoises, along with their disappearing habitats. It highlights the need for conservation, as many species are threatened by pollution, habitat loss, and the pet trade.”

Visit https://worldturtleday.org/ for more information!

Want to learn more about diamondback terrapins? Visit https://dwr.virginia.gov/wildlife/information/northern-diamond-backed-terrapin/

Two diamondback terrapins on a sandy beach.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 757-412-2300
Email Address: firstlanding@dcr.virginia.gov