Experience living history demonstrations, engaging lectures, theatrical performances, live music, heritage crafts, family activities, and unforgettable community events.

In September 1780, hundreds of Southwest Virginians gathered at the Abingdon Muster Grounds before marching with Patriot militia toward the pivotal Battle of Kings Mountain. Nearly 250 years later, LibertyFest invites you to walk in their footsteps and discover how Abingdon played an important role in America's fight for independence.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an arts lover, or simply looking for an incredible weekend getaway, LibertyFest offers something for every age and interest level. The majority of programs are free and open to all ages.

Event Schedule

Thursday, September 24
4:00 PM – Foundations of Liberty Opening Ceremony
Abingdon Muster Grounds (Retirement Lawn)

7:30 PM – Thursday Night Jams featuring the Dave Eggar String Quartet: Bridgerton Baroque
Abingdon Market Pavilion

Also Featuring:
• Barter Theatre seasonal productions
• VA250 Mobile Museum Experience on Remsburg Drive

Friday, September 25
10:00 AM – Merchants of the Holston Valley Lecture
Abingdon Train Station

1:00 PM – Fincastle Resolution Lecture
Abingdon Train Station

3:00 PM – Sinking Spring Cemetery Preservation Lecture
Sinking Spring Cemetery

6:00 PM – 1860 Base-Ball Game & Demonstration
The Meadows Sports Complex

7:30 PM – Kings Mountain at Barter Theatre
Barter Theatre's Smith Theatre

Also Featuring:
• Additional Barter Theatre seasonal productions
• VA250 Mobile Museum Experience on Remsburg Drive

Saturday, September 26
9:00 AM – Living History Weekend (Day 1)
Fairview Farm & Homestead

9:00 AM – Heritage Artisans Craft Fair
William King Museum of Art Park

2:00 PM – Kings Mountain at Barter Theatre
Barter Theatre's Smith Theatre

3:30 PM – March to the Muster Grounds & Troop Send-Off
Downtown Abingdon → Muster Grounds → Abingdon Market Pavilion

7:00 PM – Stew & Brew Square Dance
Abingdon Market Pavilion

7:30 PM – Kings Mountain at Barter Theatre
Barter Theatre's Smith Theatre

Also Featuring:
• Grand Opening of the William King Museum of Art's new Worrell Wildlife Art Wing
• Additional Barter Theatre seasonal productions
• VA250 Mobile Museum Experience on Remsburg Drive

Sunday, September 27
10:00 AM – Living History Weekend (Day 2)
Abingdon Muster Grounds

10:30 AM – Fighting Parson Conventicle
Abingdon Muster Grounds

11:00 AM – Colonial Picnic & Apple Fest (Closing Celebration)
Abingdon Muster Grounds

Also Featuring:
• William King Museum of Art Worrell Wildlife Wing Grand Opening celebrations continue
• Additonal Barter Theatre seasonal productions
• VA250 Mobile Museum Experience on Remsburg Drive

Throughout the weekend, be sure to explore Abingdon's award-winning restaurants, locally owned shops, historic Main Street, outdoor recreation, art galleries, and cultural attractions while celebrating America's 250th anniversary.

Mark your calendar and make plans to spend the weekend in Abingdon!

A complete schedule of events, event details, visitor information, and additional VA250 activities in Abingdon, Virginia is available at visitabingdonvirginia.com/va250.