Pharrell Williams has officially announced the postponement of his highly anticipated annual festival, Something in the Water, which was scheduled for October 12-13, 2024, at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. In a heartfelt social media post, Pharrell explained that the festival simply “isn’t ready” to meet the high expectations he has for the event and for his home state of Virginia. He emphasized that “Virginia doesn’t deserve better, Virginia deserves THE BEST,” signaling his commitment to delivering an extraordinary experience for festival-goers.
The decision to delay the festival follows a history of challenges, including weather-related cancellations and logistical setbacks. In his statement, Pharrell acknowledged the growing importance of the festival, stating that it has become bigger than himself, and he wants to ensure that when it returns, it does so in a way that truly honors Virginia, which he credits as a major influence in his life. Pharrell, a native of Virginia, made it clear that his love for the state drives his decision, saying, “Virginia made me, and I want to honor it with as much love as it’s shown me my entire life.”
Fans will have to wait until April 2025 for the festival’s return, but Pharrell promises that it will be worth it. “This has to be EPIC,” he wrote, assuring that after the long wait, attendees will experience something truly unforgettable. In the meantime, those who had already purchased festival passes will receive refunds, with local buyers instructed to visit the Veterans United Home Loan Amphitheater for reimbursement. Those refunded will also have first access to tickets for the 2025 edition of the festival.
Despite past setbacks, including a canceled day due to weather and a temporary move to Washington, D.C. in 2022 after the killing of Pharrell’s cousin by a Virginia Beach officer, Something in the Water has remained a beloved event. Previous festivals have featured major performances from artists like Clipse, Justin Timberlake, Post Malone, Usher, and the Wu-Tang Clan.
As Pharrell shifts focus to his upcoming documentary Piece by Piece, which recently premiered at the Toronto Film Festival, fans can look forward to the return of Something in the Water with heightened anticipation. The team behind the festival is determined to deliver an event that lives up to its name and Pharrell’s love for his home state.
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