Recognized as Best Charity Gala by Virginia Living Magazine, Commotion in the Ocean has become "THE" Virginia Beach social event of the fall season and draws over 800 patrons ranging from young professionals to prominent business leaders. Commotion in the Ocean features great music, dancing, plentiful beverages and delicious food. Jump into the action with impressive live and silent auctions featuring highly-coveted recreation, entertainment, and vacation packages.

Commotion in the Ocean is planned by the Aquarium Connection and proceeds raised this year will support the Virginia Aquarium Foundation’s Stranding Response Program. Several years ago, the Aquarium Connection, a membership society comprised of young leaders, successfully raised funds for the purchase of a boat, trailer and truck for the Stranding Response Program. These resources are critical to the work the team performs on a daily basis. The Stranding Response Team, a group of staff members and highly-trained volunteers, responds to hundreds of stranded sea turtles and marine mammals each year. They are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days each week.