Every September, the streets of Abingdon pulse with a distinctive energy as the Virginia Highlands Festival takes root for four days of creative explosion. This isn’t just an event; it’s a gathering that brings artists, musicians, and craftsmen face to face with an audience eager for authentic culture and spirited adventure. From handcrafted jewelry to folk tunes that ride the mountain breeze, the festival is a vibrant interface between tradition and hands-on enjoyment.

Abingdon itself invites you to explore beyond the festival grounds. Historic Main Street, lined with buildings dating back to the 18th century, provides a practical base for your trip. After your immersion in the festival, consider hiking the nearby Virginia Creeper Trail, where forest trails dare you to quicken your pace beside rushing streams pushing their way downhill. This proximity marries the cultural and natural, creating a weekend trip that feels complete.

Transportation and lodging fall within convenient reach. Parking sprawls near festival locales, but arriving early is your best bet to claim a good spot. For lodging, Abingdon offers everything from cozy B&Bs to practical hotels; planning accommodations well ahead is crucial since the festival attracts crowds from across the region.

Venture to the festival with a plan: map out the artisans you want to meet, schedule the musical performances that spark your interest, and slot in moments to taste the region’s Appalachian flavors. Hydrate often, especially if the September sun is strong. Footwear should be comfortable—festival grounds stretch over several blocks and often involve standing or walking on uneven sidewalks.

The festival thrives on interaction—craft demonstrations encourage questions, workshops invite participation, and food vendors offer bites that connect to local history. Each element is designed to engage you, pushing beyond passive observation toward hands-on experience.

As daylight fades, the rhythm changes. Evening concerts take the spotlight, inviting you to unwind while tapping into roots music that has grown fiercely itself through these mountains. The festival’s atmosphere is an invitation to respect and appreciate a heritage alive and well, not confined to history books.

Whether you come for the crafts, the music, or the chance to walk the streets where culture feels tangible, the Virginia Highlands Festival offers practical adventure with authentic reward. Here, the spirit of Appalachia isn't just showcased—it challenges you to connect and participate.