The top outdoor races, festivals, events, and experiences in the Blue Ridge and Beyond. Check out some of our top picks.
June 2023
Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue with Mavis Staples
June 6
Charlottesville, VA
An ambassador and an icon come to the Ting Pavilion on Tuesday, June 6th when Trombone Shorty and Mavis Staples team up for an evening of New Orleans jazz and old school rhythm and blues.
Hiker Fest 2023
June 10
Waynesboro, VA
The first annual Hiker Fest in downtown Waynesboro is a day of live music, activities, food, vendors, yoga, and more all to celebrate hikers and outdoor lovers. Sisters and Brothers will be headlining the free, family-friendly event.
The Wood Brothers with Shovels & Rope
June 15
Charlottesville, VA
The Wood Brothers create music that feels truly lived in, with a bond that can come only from a lifetime together and the comradery of 20 years on the road.
Bushels & Barrels Local Food, Wine & Beer Festival
June 16 & 17
Critz, VA
The Reynolds Homestead, in partnership with One Family Productions, is excited to announce the 9th annual Bushels & Barrels Local Food, Wine & Beer Festival. Celebrating all things local, the event is a two-day event featuring a local food Farm-to-Table dinner, Homebrew Competition and
music festival.
Go with the Flow Music & Brewfest – 4th Annual
June 24
Fries, VA
The 4th annual Go with the Flow Music & Brewfest will be held June 24, 2023 from 12-8 pm. The full day of music entertainment includes The Thrillbillyz, Phonic 45 and LK & The Fleetwoods. Come out for food trucks, axe throwing, vendors, a 5K race and more! Rain or shine, some shelter available.
Night Train Half Marathon (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
June 24
Farmville, VA
Run under the starry skies at High Bridge Trail State Park. With a choice of 50k, ½ marathon, and 5k distances, you are sure to have a unique experience. The top 3 male and female winners for each distance will receive beautiful, handmade pottery from Mainly Clay!
Salem Fair
June 28 – July 9
Salem, VA
The Salem Fair is Virginia’s largest fair and one of top 100 fairs and expositions in America. The much-anticipated annual event runs from June 28-July 9 and features free admission, daily ride specials, an incredible array of performers and an amazing collection of culinary treats.
Ripley WV 4th of July Celebration
June 29 – July 4
Ripley, WA
You’re invited to the USA’s largest small town Independence Day celebration! People from near and far come to Ripley, West Virginia to enjoy family friendly activities, multiple events, local and national entertainers, and a renown fireworks display! There is no cost for attendance!
Mountain State Art and Craft Fair
June 30 – July 2, 2023
Cedar Lakes in Ripley, WV
The Mountain State Art and Craft Fair continues a long tradition of bringing high-quality craftsmanship to the beautiful state of West Virginia. It is known for hosting juried artisans, great shopping, family fun, and entertainment for all! Cost: 12 and older: $5.00 Children 11 and under are free.
July 2023
Summer Jam
July 3
Rockingham, VA
Massanutten Resort is proud to present to you Summer Jam 2023! The event will feature live music, kids’ activities, beer & wine, food trucks, and fireworks around 10 pm! All proceeds benefit the Rockingham/Harrisonburg SPCA.
Summer Sizzle (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
July 16
Williamsburg, VA
York River State Park is the perfect backdrop for a cross-country mountain bike race… at least we think so. Take some laps around the 7.1 mile loop, perfect for beginners and experts alike.
Virginia Lake Festival
July 21-23
Clarksville, VA
Southern Virginia’s largest event, LakeFest (as it is known locally) features hundreds of attractions including hot air balloon shows, 5K, arts and crafts, live entertainment including music and dancing, great local and ethnic food, and the traditional ‘Gathering Of The Boats’ and fireworks show. Free Admission!
Southern Gap Mountain Mayhem Off-Road Event
July 27-29
Grundy, VA
Three Days. Four Nights. Unforgettable Fun! It’s the ultimate off-road event for ATVs, UTVs and motocross bikes in the mountains of far Southwest Virginia. Mud Bogs, Hill Climbs, Drag Racing, Rally Course Racing, Good Food, Vendor Row, Music and More!
August 2023
Guts, Gravel, Glory (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
August 6
Chesterfield, VA
If you can’t get enough of Pocahontas State Park, don’t fret! This dirt road/gravel race, with a bit of double track, is a great opportunity to visit the Park again. Race distance varies from 19 to 50 miles, and CX or mountain bikes work well on this 10k loop.
High Knob Outdoor Fest
August 14-19
Norton, VA
Get Outside in Norton at the High Knob Outdoor Fest! This weeklong celebration of the High Knob Region’s outdoor recreation opportunities features 10+ outdoor trips and educational events and a downtown festival offering live music, food trucks, a beer garden, outdoor vendors/demos, and more.
John Blair Blur (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
August 19
Williamsburg, VA
Trail runners rejoice! York River State Park offers a 10k trail race full of speedy single track and fireroad. Be sure to display your VA State Parks parking pass upon arrival, or pay the parking fee when entering the park.
Ashland Half Marathon
August 26
Ashland, VA
If you’ve never been to Ashland, Virginia look no further than the Ashland Half Marathon to find yourself soaking in every ounce of the colorful town! Escape to small-town Virginia and run 13.1 miles along rolling hills, picturesque fields, and maybe even spot a train or two.
Front Porch Fest 14
August 31 – September 3
Stuart, VA
Held at the foot of the Blue Ridge, Front Porch Fest was born from the idea that life is art, and music is the soul. Featuring a high caliber of artists, this small family-friendly festival is a “don’t miss” in the region and a great event for first time festival goers.
September 2023
Odyssey Trail Running Rampage (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
September 9
Millboro, VA
Welcome fall at Douthat State Park, with a choice of four trail running races. The 50K Ultra, Marathon, Half Marathon, and Six-Miler give runners the opportunity to race through the mountains of Virginia, and some of the best trails in the Southeast.
The Infamous Weekend
September 15-16
Martinsville, VA
This inaugural family-friendly event features 2 days and nights of amazing music from festival hosts, The Infamous Stringdusters plus a supporting lineup curated by the band itself. Enjoy on-site camping, outdoor activities, food, drink, arts, and kids’ activities at the idyllic Pop’s Farm in the rolling foothills of Martinsville, Va.
New River Trail Challenge (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
September 16
Max Meadows, VA
Bike, kayak and run in and along the New River Trail! This relatively flat course, and smooth waters make for a perfect adventure triathlon for both beginners and experts. Participants may compete solo or in teams of two or three, and this is a 50 point bonus race!
Shenandoah River Adventure Race (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
September 16
Bentonville, VA
Push your limits and choose between a 12, 8 or 4-hour adventure race. Located in Shenandoah River State Park, these races will test your physical and mental abilities with exhilarating river paddles, MTB trails with steady climbs and rewarding descents, and checkpoints along the way.
Powhatan 10th Anniversary 10-Miler (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
September 23
Powhatan, VA
Celebrate Powhatan State Park’s 10th anniversary with a 10-mile run through open fields, along flowy singletrack, and along the historic James River. The terrain varies throughout the race, and is sure to keep runners on their toes. Those who register by 9/1 will receive a commemorative short sleeve shirt.
Crazy 8-Miler (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
September 30
Williamsburg, VA
Leap over roots, cross over bridges, and speed through sections of trail at York River State Park. This “crazy” trail race is full of technical and rolling trails, with four aid stations along the route. Prizes will be awarded, and two lucky folks will receive a $85 gift certificate from VA State Parks.
October 2023
High Bridge 5k and 1/2 Marathon (VA State Parks Adventure Series)
October 7
Farmville, VA
Run through the heart of Virginia at High Bridge Trail State Park, and take in the historic commercial district of Farmville. This relatively flat rail to trail conversion has packed crushed gravel, ideal for those looking for something more than pavement. Register by 9/1 for a guaranteed t-shirt, and receive a commemorative medal as you cross the finish line.
The 51st LEAF Festival
October 19-22
Lake Eden, Black Mountain, NC
Weekend passes range $164-$239, including camping. Day tickets and work exchange available.
November 2023
Allianz Partners Richmond Marathon
November 11
Richmond, VA
Whether you take part in the marathon, CarMax Richmond Half Marathon, or VCU Health Richmond 8k, Richmond provides phenomenal course support, great fall scenery, and awesome finisher swag. Don’t miss the 46th running of America’s Friendliest Marathon!
Ongoing
Lime Kiln Theater Summer Concert Series
Through October
Lexington, VA
Lime Kiln Theater brings a star studded lineup to their Summer Concert Series with 49 Winchester, Ricky Skaggs, Marty Stuart, Dan Tyminski, Garrison Keillor and more. Come enjoy world class music under the stars. Local food truck faire, beer, wine and cider will be available to purchase on site.
