Public Programs

The Virginia Institute of Marine Science and its federal partners serve the citizens of Virginia and the mid-Atlantic region by offering a wide variety of free public programs, both on the VIMS campus in Gloucester Point and at venues throughout Hampton Roads and the lower Chesapeake Bay region.

After Hours Lecture Series

This monthly series of public lectures by scientists from VIMS and elsewhere explores the hot issues facing Chesapeake Bay and the coastal ocean. Learn more and register here.

Discovery Labs

Offered by the Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve program at VIMS, these monthly labs provide a hands-on opportunity for adults and children to explore selected aspects of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem.

Marine Science Day

VIMS' annual open house is a fun-filled event for the whole family. Join us in Gloucester Point for exhibits, children's activities, seining, lab tours, seafood cooking demonstrations, mini-lectures, and much more.

Public Tours

These 1.5 hour guided walks take place on Friday mornings during the summer months and are most interesting for adults and older children. Reservations are required. To reserve a space or schedule a special group tours at other times of the year, call 804-684-7846.

Speakers Bureau

This program provides opportunities to invite VIMS faculty and staff for talks or other outreach activities at your school, club, business, community organization, or other venue. Call 804-684-7846 or e-mail [[programs]] for more information.

Mini-Schools of Marine Science

VIMS offers "mini-schools" on various aspects of marine science and policy for the general public and educators. Taught by VIMS faculty and staff, mini-schools provide an in-depth exploration of topical issues in marine science for non-scientists.

Seafood Symposia

The Chefs' Seafood Symposium is an annual educational program for culinary professionals, culinary students, and representatives from the seafood industry and related businesses. Participants leave with information, resources, and recipes to help them make more informed seafood choices as well as tastier dishes!

Technical Training

VIMS offers several programs designed to meet the needs of Virginia's coastal decision-makers. The Center for Coastal Resources Management (CCRM) at VIMS offers Tidal Wetlands Workshops in the spring and fall for members of citizen Wetlands Boards. The Chesapeake Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (CBNERRVA) at VIMS offers a Coastal Training Program that promotes science-based decision-making and targets identified training needs.

Maury Lecture Series

The lectures in the Maury Marine Science Lecture series are aimed at a scientific audience but are open to the public. Seminars typically take place on Friday, and begin with a reception at 3:00 pm in the Watermen's Hall lobby; the presentation follows at 3:30 pm in McHugh Auditorium.