Virginia Highlands Festival
Robert Porterfield held the first festival in 1948 on the front porch of the Martha Washington Inn in conjunction with the founding of the famed Barter Theatre (State Theatre of Virginia). His purpose was to preserve and celebrate the cultural heritage of this area. The Festival, over the past 52 years, has grown into a regional festival representing all of Southwest Virginia. Now it not only preserves the arts, crafts and skills that developed in this region, but also imports talented artist and performers from all over the USA and the world for the enjoyment of area residents and visitors.
A volunteer board of over 100 area residents work one year in advance planning events, tours, performances, publications, arranging housing for international performers, transportation within the four square miles of festival locations, and training volunteers for information booths. Board meetings are held once a month on the first Thursday in the month except for the months of August and January. Come and join us. We'd love to have you!
Abingdon is nestled in the mountains of Southwest Virginia, in an area of unparalleled natural beauty that is rich in tradition. Take a moment to discover our history, our local attractions, our many special events, our fine lodging and restaurants, and our community!
Chartered in 1778, Abingdon is a Virginia Historic Landmark. Visitors enjoy amenities usually reserved for much larger communities. You can stroll shaded, brick sidewalks and savor the ambiance of the oldest town west of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or explore a 20-block Historic District filled with outstanding examples of Federal and Victorian architecture.
