Events Calendar

Arts & Crafts

In Conversation: Inspired Furniture Then and NowAfter Hours Reception: November 7, 2019 from 6 – 8 p.m.August 1, 2019 – January 26, 2020Price-Strongwell Cultural Heritage Galleries In Conversation: Inspired Furniture Then and Now explores the legacy of furniture making in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee. This exhibition features work by contemporary furniture makers in tandem with historical pieces from the region. Placing …

Music | Family Fun | History/Heritage | Performances

The Crooked Road Open Jam is an informal musical gathering on the 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th Thursday of each month. You don't have to play an instrument to partake, though it's always open to those who do. Either way, just come prepared to have fun and be blown away by the level of talent Southwest Virginia has to offer. Entertainment is free; special a la carte BBQ menu also available. 1st, 3rd, 4th and 5th Thursday of each month 6:30-9:00 p.m.

Arts & Crafts

From These HillsOpening Reception: October 3, 2019 from 6 – 8 p.m.October 3, 2019 – February 9, 2020 William King Museum of Art continues to celebrate the diversity of regional artistic talent with its biennial exhibition, From These Hills: Contemporary Art in the Southern Appalachian Highlands, a major exhibition of new works by artists working in all media in Southwest Virginia, Northeast Tennessee, Western North Carolina, Southern West Vir…

In Our Own Words: Native Impressions 2015-2016November 7, 2019 – February 23, 2019WKMA After Hours: November 7 from 6 – 8 p.m. In Our Own Words: Native Impressions 2015-16, on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, highlights the lives of Native Americans today. This series of prints, produced by Daniel Heyman and Lucy Ganje under the guidance of master printer Kim Fink, was inspired by conversations with members of North Dakota’s four r…

Arts & Crafts

In Conversation: Inspired Furniture Then and NowAfter Hours Reception: November 7, 2019 from 6 – 8 p.m.August 1, 2019 – January 26, 2020Price-Strongwell Cultural Heritage Galleries In Conversation: Inspired Furniture Then and Now explores the legacy of furniture making in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee. This exhibition features work by contemporary furniture makers in tandem with historical pieces from the region. Placing …

Arts & Crafts

The Gallery @ Barr Photographics LLC is excited to announce the holiday installment of the Corner Gallery’s 2019 exhibition series with a collection of giclee on canvas photographic works entitled “Different Perspective” by gallery owner and photographer R. Dean Barr. In his artist statement Dean reveals, “This collection of photos represents just what the exhibit title indicates, images captured from a different perspective. The perspective of an image can be in…

Performances

This annual new play reading festival celebrates the richness of the Appalachian tradition by showcasing the stories of the region, both past and present, and the inspiration it provides the writers who live here.  Each year, Barter chooses 7 new plays for public readings, featuring members of Barter's Resident Acting Company. After each reading there is a discussion with a panel of local and regional theatre professionals, and then the discussion is opened up to the audience for…

History/Heritage | Winter

Native American Film Series - What Was OursLOCATION: Southwest Virginia Higher Ed CenterWHEN: January 23, 2020 at 7 PMCOST: FREE and open to the public Like millions of indigenous people, many Native American tribes do not control their own material history and culture. For the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho tribes living on the isolated Wind River Indian Reservation in Wyoming, new contact with lost artifacts risks opening old wounds …

Music | Family Fun | Performances | Winter | Wine/Beer | LGBT Friendly

Blue Ridge Beverage Presents the 8th Annual January Jams featuring the New Faces of Country Music: Charley Crockett at Barter Theatre Friday, January 24th. For Fans of: Tyler Childers, Sturgill Simpson, Colter Wall Charley Crockett’s been running nearly his entire life, but with the title track to his sixth album, the Texas songwriter looks back at where he came from. “The Valley” chronicles his hard upbringing on the south Texas border in San Benito and his si…

Music | Family Fun | Performances | Winter | Wine/Beer | LGBT Friendly

Blue Ridge Beverage Presents the 8th Annual January Jams at Barter Theatre: Lilly Hiatt. For Fans Of: Jason Isbell, Drive By Truckers, John Moreland, Brandi Carlile Lilly Hiatt returned with Trinity Lane on August 25th, 2017. The 12-song set was produced by Michael Trent of Shovels & Rope and engineered by Andy Dixon at Trent’s Studio Bees in Johns Island, SC. It is the follow up to her acclaimed sophomore album Royal Blue, which Paste Magazine described as “a gl…

History/Heritage | Performances

Appalachian Highlanders Pipes and Drums is once again hosting this year's Burns Night to celebrate the life of Scotland's national bard. Robert Burns was the 18th century Scottish poet - song writer - story teller who helped birth a Scottish renaissance that changed the world. As a Jacobite at heart, Burns was an avid proponent of the American Revolution and an ardent fan of George Washington, even writing an ode to celebrate George's birthday! We are thrilled to be hosting this evening's cel…

History/Heritage | Winter

Native American Film Series - Blood MemoryLOCATION: Southwest Virginia Higher Ed CenterWHEN: January, 30 at 7 PMCOST: FREE and open to the public Battles over blood quantum and ‘best interests’ resurface in the untold history if America’s Indian Adoption Era – a time when nearly one-third of children were removed from tribal communities nationwide. As political scrutiny over Indian child welfare intensifies, an adoption survivo…

Performances

Jimmy V is a recording artist from Cortland, NY - come check out his mix of folk, blues and old country!$5 per adult, all ages welcome

History/Heritage | Wine/Beer

Come dine with history! Enjoy a 4 course meal of colonial favorites by Chef Charles ParkerIn between courses, historical actors, Bill Barker (Thomas Jefferson) and Richard Schumann (Patrick Henry) will speak about their life and times, with an emphasis on viticulture in Virginia$100 per person, seats limited, advanced tickets requiredFundraiser for the Historical Society of Washington County *Al…

History/Heritage | Performances

For one night only at Barter Theatre, meet Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson for an interactive evening of history.  Acclaimed reenactors Bill Barker and Richard Schumann will take the Barter Theatre stage in Abingdon on Thursday February 13, 2020 for "Conversation with Henry and Jefferson," a one-night interactive dialogue you won't want to miss. The program begins at 7:00pm and the doors open at 6:00pm. Guests will enjoy colonial era music from local brothers "Sons…

Music

["Jill Andrews + Darin and Brooke Aldridge","February 14, 2020\nDoors open 7:15pm","Show begins 8:00pm\n \nGenre: Singer Songwriter, Indie Folk, Americana\nFor Fans Of: Josh Ritter, The Milk Carton Kids, Mandolin Orange\n \nJill Andrews Bio:\nA native of East Tennessee, Jill Andrews kicked off her songwriting career as co-founder of the everybodyfields, a band whose mix of Southern genres – folk, country, bluegrass &ndash…

Music

["Asleep At the Wheel","February 15, 2020\nDoors open 7:15pm","Show begins 8:00pm\n \nGenre: Western Swing, Country Rock\nFor Fans Of: Junior Brown, BR549, Dwight Yoakam\n \n“New Routes” the brand-new album by Asleep At the Wheel, marks both a new path forward and a nod to the freewheeling roots (get it?) of one of Texas’ most beloved bands. After a decade of collaborating on record with friends, with “New Route…

Music

["Acoustic Syndicate + Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley","February 22, 2020\nDoors open 7:15pm","Show begins 8:00pm\n \nGenre: Rock, Folk, Bluegrass\nFor Fans Of: Railroad Earth, Greensky Bluegrass, Hot Buttered Rum\n \nAcoustic Syndicate Bio\nAcoustic Syndicate is a musical institution. Since 1994, their unique blend of bluegrass instruments, rock sensibilities, and conscious songwriting has inspired a generation of musicians. Thr…

Music

["Scythian + Lindsay Lou","February 28, 2020\nDoors open 7:15pm","Show begins 8:00pm\n \nGenre: Americana, Irish Country, Folk\nFor Fans Of: Gaelic Storm, The Elders,\n \nScythian Bio:\nWashington DC-based Scythian (sith-ee-yin) began over 12 years ago as a bunch of college buddies playing Celtic music in the streets and has grown to be a headliner on the US Celtic Festival Circuit as well as a name in the Bluegrass\/Americana …

Music

["Amythyst Kiah + Front Country ","February 29, 2020 \nDoors open 7:15pm","Show begins 8:00pm\n \nGenre: Old Time Music, Bluegrass, Folk\nFor Fans Of: Rhiannon Giddens, Mandolin Orange\n \nAmythyst Kiah Bio\nBorn in Chattanooga and now based in Johnson City, Amythyst Kiah’s commanding stage presence is matched by her raw and powerful vocals—a deeply moving, hypnotic sound that stirs echoes of a distant and…

Performances

By William Shakespeare, Adapted by Katy Brown Murder. Power. Lust. Greed. Dark forces fuel the Macbeths' sinister ambition for the crown and their horrifying descent into madness. Don't miss this intimate and action-filled adaptation specifically tailored for Barter's Smith Theatre.

Performances

"A funny, touching, and totally irresistible comedy."By Alfred UhryWhen Daisy Werthan's son hires Hoke to drive her around town, the indomitable Daisy has no idea that her stubborn chauffeur will soon become a permanent fixture in her life.  Over the span of twenty-five years, these two develop an unlikely bond that challenges the idea of friendship during America's Civil Rights era. Featuring two of Barter's all-time favorite actors - Mary Lucy Bivins and Jasper McGruder.

Family Fun | Virginia Green | Workshops/Classes | Eco-Friendly | Spring | Festivals

Come Celebrate Earth Day in Abingdon!EARTH DAY CELEBRATION, PAPER SHREDDING & E-WASTE RECYCLING Admission is FREE. This year there will be groups (non-profits, private groups, local businesses, educators and state & federal agencies) providing a great deal of fun and information to share. T Activities include a rain barrel workshop, a free Kids Zone area with free games & prizes, a “trash to treasure” crafts tent, educational displays, face painting, and a local foods…

Music | Family Fun | Workshops/Classes | Spring | Festivals

Join us for the 4th Annual VA Creeper Fest, celebrating the jewel of SWVA's Outdoor Recreation's crown, The Virginia Creeper Trail. This festival is family and pet friendly, featuring outdoor recreation organizations, outfitters, guides and activities based in SWVA and NETN. Several on-site activities immerse you in experience, including guided bike rides, yoga for runners, kayak & paddle board demos in our on-site pool, obstacle courses, history walks and much more. Full schedule availab…

Performances

Music and Lyrics by Dolly Parton,Based on the 20th Century Fox Film,Book by Patricia ResnickFull of laughter and sidesplitting Southern sass, this Broadway musical comedy is based on the hit movie starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin. Come watch these three unlikely friends as they scheme to take control of their company and learn there's nothing they can't do, even in a man's world. Toe-tapping fun for the whole family!

Performances

By Tom ZieglerA funny, lyrical, & moving play about two strong and stubborn women. Grace, a feisty, cantankerous 90-year-old, plans to live out her life in her ramshackle cabin high in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. She has no use for Glorie, the volunteer health worker assigned to care for her. As the two women get to know each other, they reveal their secrets, dreams, & fears in this story about the power of healing and the joy of life. 

Performances | Wine/Beer

Celebrate the start of summer with good tunes by the river!BBQ, beer & wine slushees availableFree & family friendly

Performances

"A musical delight for the entire family!"By L. Frank BaumMusic and Lyrics by Harold Arlen and E.Y. HarburgThere's no place like Barter to see America's favorite musical! Join Dorothy & Toto as they skip down the yellow-brick road with only a Scarecrow, a Tin Man, & a Cowardly Lion to protect them from the Wicked Witch of the West. This joyous classic is a must-see for young and old alike.

Performances

"If you are looking to laugh or feel good, this play is for you!"By Bo WilsonStorms have flooded the roads, but it takes more than a little rain to keep the Charitable Sisterhood of Pennington Gap, VA from fulfilling their mission. When these ladies meet to organize a relief effort for homeless Guatemalans, they are greeted with a mountain of community donations - & that pile of stuff is hiding a thing or two. Join us in the church basement, where our five angels of mercy will l…

History/Heritage | Performances | Arts & Crafts | LGBT Friendly

Winter WheatBook and Lyrics by Catherine BushMusic by Ben Mackel It’s 1920, the world is changing, and no one feels it more than the Burn family of Niota, TN. The family’s first tractor is purchased, indoor plumbing arrives in town, & a young girl unexpectedly comes into their lives. Meanwhile, the country is abuzz over the controversial 19th Amendment that would give women the right to vote. In the end, women’s suffrage comes down to a single ma…

Family Fun | History/Heritage | Holidays | 4th of July

Abingdon's Independence Day Extravaganza is a family event full of food, music, and fun! The festivities include kids’ activities, a watermelon eating contest, history reenactors, a free concert, and a fireworks finale visible from the Market Pavilion. All activities are free and open to the public.

Family Fun | History/Heritage | Arts & Crafts | Festivals | Antique Shows/Flea Markets

10 Days of Arts, Music, Food & Fun!  Come celebrate the Virginia Highlands Festival in historic Abingdon, VA. Named "Best Art Event" in the region by readers of Virginia Living magazine, the Festival offers activities and entertainment for the whole family. Anchored by an antiques market and an award-winning juried arts and crafts show, the Festival includes live music, historical re-enactments, fine art and photography competitions, performances, creati…

History/Heritage | Festivals | Antique Shows/Flea Markets

Discover those special, hard-to-find items at the Antiques Market & Vintage Show! For many attendees, this is the focal point of the 10-day Virginia Highlands Festival. Antiques lovers spend hours browsing through booths filled with formal and primitive furniture, high–end collectibles, jewelry, porcelain, china, rugs, vintage clothing, linens, paintings, pottery and more! Dealers are constantly restocking, so be sure to visit more than once. The Virginia Highland…

Performances

"Insanely hysterical and wildly believeable"A new comedy by Stephen BrownMegan hates country music singer Rick Montgomery, and she and her best friend Kimmy have decided tonight's concert will be his last. The two teens hatch an ill-conceived plot to kidnap the country music star in this laugh-out-loud, offbeat comedy. Songs will be sung, shots will be fired, and the girls will discover that revenge ain't all it's cracked up to be.

Performances

"A riveting story of the struggle between a father and his son (the creator and his creation)."Adapted by Richard RoseWhen scientist Victor Frankenstein infuses the spark of Life into his Creature, he begins a haunting examination of what it is to be human and the price we pay for playing God. A uniquely theatrical experience, this play is a Barter audience favorite and the perfect way to celebrate the Halloween season.

Music | Family Fun | Performances | Wine/Beer | LGBT Friendly | Festivals

Weird and wonderful street performers will fill downtown Abingdon for Blue Ridge BuskerFest  We’ve lined up acts from all over the region & country to thrill your senses. From fire-eaters to magicians, human statues, one-man bands and everything in between, there won’t be a corner of the Main Street that will disappoint. There is something for all ages! The Imagination Station is all for kids & kids at heart from 11-3pm on the Barter Green. Join them for FREE puppet making, impro…

Performances

Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel, add a dash of Monty Python and you have The 39 Steps, a fast-paced whodunit for anyone who loves the magic of theatre! This two-time Tony® and Drama Desk Award-winning treat is packed with nonstop laughs, over 150 zany characters (played by a ridiculously talented cast of four), an onstage plane crash, handcuffs, missing fingers, and some good old-fashioned romance!

Performances

"The overwhelming audience favorite from Barter's 2019 Appalachian Festival of Plays and Playwrights."A New American Musical by James Harriswith Music Arrangements by Mark HayesFeaturing Music from the World War II EraA world premiers from the author of Civil War Voices. Jewish refugee Henry Stern flees Nazi Germany at the age of five to start a new life with his family in the small town of Opelika, AL. Many years later, Henry makes an amazing di…

"The classic ghost story of Christmas."A traditional adaptation by Richard Rosefrom the book by Charles DickensThe joy of the Christmas season returns with this sparkling production! Come and relive the sheer exhilaration of Ebenezer Scrooge's ghost-guided journey into his Past, Present and Future, where despair gives way to hope, and reclamation awaits all who seek it. A memorable gift to treasure with family and friends that will leave you wrapped in the warmth of the h…

Performances

"A HILARIOUS comedy about FAMILY, FAITH, & FOOD."by Joe DiPietroNick Cristano, a single, 29-year-old, has just been offered his dream job, but it means leaving his hometown. His grandparents, with whom he has eaten Sunday dinner every week of his life, do not take the news well, and they get creative in an effort to keep Nick from leaving. Outrageous plans are made, a blind date is arranged, and stories are told, with hilarious results. The show is guaranteed to make you love yo…

Performances

A raucous one-woman show by Ginna HobenMary loves the holidays. Even when her fiance calls to say he's sick and can't come to Thanksgiving with her family, she makes the best of the day and snuggles in to watch the Macy's Day Parade on TV. But when the parade camera zooms in on her fiance kissing another woman, Mary's holidays take a turn for the ridiculous. What follows is a year of hilarious and strange dates that bring Mary back around to the next holiday season wiser, happier, and …