Explore the Magic of Appalachia: A Guide to the 77th Virginia Highlands Festival

Get ready to celebrate! From July 24 to August 2, 2026, the 77th Virginia Highlands Festival returns to Abingdon, Virginia. Founded in 1949 by Robert Porterfield, this storied tradition has grown into one of the region’s most beloved cultural events, drawing visitors from across the country to experience the very best of Appalachian art, music, food, and history.

Whether you are a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, this year’s festival promises an unforgettable 10-day journey through the heart of Southwest Virginia.

Celebrating 250 Years of Appalachian Beauty

Art is at the core of the festival, and the 2026 Juried Fine Art Exhibition at The Abingdon Arts Depot carries the special theme: “Beauty & History: Celebrating 250 Years of Appalachia”. Beyond the fine arts, you can explore the Juried Arts & Crafts Show, featuring over 100 quilts on display at the Virginia Highlands Quilt Show, and the Juried Antiques & Vintage Show at the SWVA Higher Education Center, where rare treasures and timeless pieces await.

Music for Every Generation

This year’s musical lineup is a nostalgic journey through the decades. Highlights include:

• Kick-Off Concert: Featuring Club Rewind (80’s Tribute) on July 24.
• Blast From The Past: A 90’s Tribute concert coupled with a Hot Air Balloon Glow on July 31.
• Fly High: A 2000’s (Y2K) Tribute concert and balloon launch on August 1.
• Tunes at Noon: Free daily regional songwriter performances held throughout the festival.

A Culinary Journey

Appalachian food traditions take center stage with events like the “Appalachian Supper Goes Retro!” on July 23. Throughout the week, you can enjoy local hard cider and coffee tastings, visit the Abingdon Farmers Market, or take a curated farm tour to discover the source of our region’s flavors.

Adventure and Heritage

For those who love the outdoors, the festival offers guided rock climbing at Hidden Valley WMA, freshwater snorkeling with the Blue Ridge Discovery Center, and sunset pontoon cruises on South Holston Lake.

History buffs shouldn’t miss the Living History Tours at Sinking Spring Cemetery or the Abingdon Spirit Tours, led by the “Haint Mistress” Donnamarie Emmert.

For the Readers and Writers

The 2026 Writers & Readers Day features a keynote presentation by Jeannette Walls, the celebrated author of The Glass Castle. Additionally, the Highlands Writers Fair runs throughout the week, showcasing local published authors and their latest works.

Fun for the Whole Family

The festival is designed for all ages, with a Youth Arts & Crafts Tent on the Barter Green and the Wolf Pup Scavenger Hunt, where kids can earn their very own toy wolf pup. The festivities conclude with the Back to School Bash on August 2, featuring Tuatha Dea and National Night Out at The Meadows Sports Complex.

Plan Your Visit

With so many events happening across Abingdon and Washington County, the best way to keep track is to build your own personalized itinerary on the festival website.

Join us this summer to broaden the story of Appalachia and create memories that will last a lifetime. For the full schedule and ticket information, visit the official festival portal. Virginia Highlands Festival Schedule | Events in Abingdon