The Virginia Highlands Festival

Celebrate arts, culture, and community at the Virginia Highlands Festival, one of Southwest Virginia’s most cherished annual events. Set in the heart of historic Abingdon, this multi-day festival showcases the region’s creative spirit with a wide range of attractions, including juried fine art and craft shows, live music, antiques, performing arts, literary events, historical tours, and more.

For over seven decades, the Virginia Highlands Festival has brought together artists, performers, and visitors from across the Southeast to experience the beauty and charm of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether browsing local artwork, listening to Appalachian music, exploring downtown Abingdon’s shops and restaurants, or enjoying family-friendly entertainment, there’s something for everyone at this signature summer event.

Make plans to attend the Virginia Highlands Festival in Abingdon, VA, and see why it’s been voted one of the best festivals in the Southeast. Come for the creativity—stay for the experience.

Arts & Crafts Show

A staple of the Virginia Highlands Festival in Abingdon for over 70 years. Voted the “Best Art Show in Region” by Virginia Living Magazine readers in 2023, the Juried Arts and Crafts show is a free activity, open rain or shine!

Antiques & Vintage Market

Discover those special, hard-to-find items at the Juried Antiques Market & Vintage Show at the SWVA Higher Ed Center. We’re excited to build on the success of the 2023 festival. Treasures are waiting to be uncovered!

Music Concerts

You can’t have a festival without live music! With a return of the Festival Ball at The Martha, we have music curated for you. Enjoy the region’s best food trucks, plus beer and wine from some of your favorite summer bands.

Outdoor Adventures

Take an adventure during the Festival to the great outdoors. Wherever your wild heart wants to explore, we’ll have guided trips for adults and kids alike. Each year, our festival will focus on a different outdoor asset.

Local History

For over 200 years, Abingdon has been the cultural, political, and economic center of the entire region. People are drawn to Abingdon to hear the stories of this rich history via lectures, walking tours & more.

Writers & Readers Days

Writers & Readers Days are a long standing tradition at the Virginia Highlands Festival, with each year dedicated to an immersive experience in telling your stories.

Culinary Arts & Traditions

Food lovers will find plenty to satisfy their palate throughout the Festival set in Abingdon, Virginia, the Best Small Town Food Scene (USA Today 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022)