ABINGDON, Va. — The Virginia Highlands Festival returns to Abingdon this summer, offering an array of events highlighting the region's rich cultural heritage. From July 24 to 31, 2024, the festival features diverse activities, including an antiques and vintage show, arts and crafts, culinary arts, live music, and historical tours.
Founded in 1949 by Robert Porterfield, the Virginia Highlands Festival was initially held at the Martha Washington Inn to preserve and celebrate Southwest Virginia's cultural traditions. Over the decades, the festival has expanded its scope, attracting artists and performers worldwide while maintaining its focus on regional heritage.
The festival's vision and mission have remained consistent with Porterfield's original intent. According to the festival's website, the vision is to be the premier event that showcases the diverse art, culture, and history of Appalachia. The mission is to produce diverse artistic and cultural activities by leveraging the region's creative, historical, and natural resources and building local and regional partnerships to engage and strengthen community participation.
One of the festival's main attractions is the Juried Arts & Crafts Show, which takes place daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 110 W. Main Street, Abingdon. Visitors can explore various handcrafted items from local and regional artists. For those interested in antiques, the Juried Antiques & Vintage Show at the SWVA Higher Education Center offers early bird shopping and showcases a range of vintage treasures.
Music lovers can look forward to live performances, including the Diamond Gala featuring Good Shot Judy and the Appalachian Highland Thunder concert at Delta Blues BBQ & Tumbling Creek Cider Company. These events require attendees to bring their chairs, though seating might not always be necessary due to the lively atmosphere.
Culinary enthusiasts can indulge in special events such as the "Talk. Taste. Tour." culinary arts series, which includes an Appalachian Supper and a variety of food and beverage offerings from local vendors. Outside coolers are prohibited at music concerts, but food vendors and a beer garden are available to meet visitors' needs.
For history buffs, the festival offers tours and lectures on Abingdon's role in the American Revolution, the Historic Homes walking tour, and the Sinking Spring Cemetery tour. The Barter Theatre, founded by Porterfield, also provides backstage tours and performances, further enriching the historical experience.
Youth events, including the Youth Arts & Crafts Tent and workshops, ensure activities for all ages. The festival also features unique outdoor adventures such as the Urban Pathway Walk, the Hidden Treasures walk along the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, and the popular Snorkeling in Whitetop-Laurel Creek.
Festival-goers can follow the Virginia Highlands Festival on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to stay updated on event schedules and any weather-related changes. Printed daily schedules are also available at festival sites, ensuring attendees can easily access the latest information.
Parking is available in limited street locations and parking lots near downtown Abingdon, with ample parking at the SWVA Higher Education Center. For those interested in becoming a vendor or performer, the festival's applications and music committee processes are detailed on their website, though submissions for 2023 are now closed.
The Virginia Highlands Festival continues to be supported by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts, emphasizing its importance as a cultural cornerstone in the region. As the festival approaches, Abingdon looks forward to welcoming visitors from near and far to celebrate the vibrant arts, culture, and history of Southwest Virginia.
For more information, visit the Virginia Highlands Festival website at vahighlandsfestival.org or call (276) 623-5266.
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