Spending time with friends and family is important, but so is listening to good music. Festivals provide the perfect opportunity to do both. With a wide span of genres and on-site activities, there’s a festival for everyone in Virginia. Here are the 10 best music festivals in the state.
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1. FloydFest
Floyd, Virginia
When: July (five days)
The festival’s charm is in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It features various music genres such as bluegrass, folk, cajun, Yiddish, and reggae. You’ll find on-site camping, RV parking, and an array of food and drink vendors.
Each year, Floydfest sets a theme that influences the music lineup, art installations, and workshops. If you want a relaxing, family-friendly outdoor festival for a weekend getaway, Floydfest is perfect for you.
2. Shenandoah Valley Music Festival
Orkney Springs, Virginia
When: July-September (eight days)
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival offers a variety of music genres like country, bluegrass, rock, Americana, and symphonic music. Held at Shrine Mont’s pavilion, the setting is enhanced by the stunning natural beauty of The Great North Mountain.
If you want a laid-back festival to enjoy music and scenic views, the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival is perfect.
3. Hampton Jazz Festival
Hampton, Virginia
When: June (three days)
Jazz takes center stage at this music festival, showcasing both established and emerging artists. Held at the Hampton Coliseum, one of the East Coast’s largest arenas, the event offers a three-day celebration of R&B, soul, and plenty of jazz.
4. Rooster Walk Music Festival
Axton, Virginia
When: May (four days)
Rooster Walk Music Festival combines the beauty of the outdoors with amazing music. It’s regarded as one of Virginia’s top bluegrass and roots music festivals.
There will be on-site camping, hiking, food and drink vendors, and a Kid’s Coop with plenty of activities for children. Parking isn’t available on-site, so plan for alternatives like setting up camp or arranging nearby hotel accommodations partnered with the event to fully enjoy the festival.
5. Red Wing Roots Music Festival
Mount Solon, Virginia
When: June (three days)
Feel the festival vibe with a lineup of great bluegrass, Americana, rock, and country artists. This family-friendly event also offers on-site camping, local campgrounds, RV parking, plenty of food options, and activities for all ages to keep everyone entertained.
6. Lockn’ Festival
Arrington, Virginia
When: September (four days)
Are you a music lover who enjoys jam bands and improvisation? You’ll love Lockn’ Festival. For four days, attendees can experience live music non-stop from their favorite artists until late into the night.
You can keep the party going all weekend by camping on-site. Drinks, food, merchandise, and fun activities enhance your festival experience.
7. Devils Backbone Hoopla
Roseland, Virginia
When: October (three days)
Beers and music go hand-in-hand at Devils Backbone Hoopla. The event celebrates craft beer from Devils Backbone Brewing Company and live performances by local and regional bands.
There’s plenty of food and drinks to enjoy, so come hungry! On-site camping and outdoor activities are available for those wanting to make a weekend out of it.
8. Blue Ridge Rock Festival
Alton, Virginia
When: September (five days)
Blue Ridge Rock Festival features top headliners in rock and metal. This year’s lineup includes Slipknot and I Prevail, who delivered outstanding performances. With prominent acts, this festival is ideal for those wanting to mosh and headbang to their favorite songs.
The event is accessible to people with needs to ensure an inclusive experience. On-site camping is available for overnight stays.
9. Richmond Folk Festival
Richmond, Virginia
When: October (three days)
Richmond Folk Festival is a free event showcasing a diverse lineup of musicians from across the state who perform both traditional and contemporary music.
The festival is family-friendly, featuring crafts, activities, and food that showcase Virginia’s culture. You can camp on-site to fully enjoy your festival experience.
10. Appaloosa Music Festival
Front Royal, Virginia
When: September (two days)
Celebrate the roots of music and culture at Appaloosa Music Festival. You’ll dance all weekend to bluegrass, Americana, Celtic, and more from promising talents. The festival unites people and resonates deeply with its audience through music.
Conclusion
The best music festivals provide fun and memorable experiences for everyone. Virginia’s festivals showcase its music, culture, and cuisine. If you get the chance, be sure to explore Virginia’s festival scene and enjoy all it offers.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival Featured Image by: Lhalsted, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
