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Come see why Abingdon was named an “American Dream Town” (2006) and why the Virginia Highlands Festival is a Top 20 “must see” event (featured in National Geographic Traveler, April 2005)!
Antiques Market. Antiques lovers spend days browsing through tents filled with an impressive array of furniture, collectibles, folk art, jewelry, accessories, books and primitives. Back by popular demand: Antiques Mini-Seminars.
Art & Photography. Highlights include the Juried Art Show, Youth Art Show and Juried Photography Show. Harry Thompson, a nationally recognized artist, will conduct a five-day Watermedia Workshop.
Arts & Crafts. Artisans from throughout the Southeast continue vibrant and lasting traditions as they exhibit fine art and market crafts in the Festival’s juried show and the Fiber Arts Quilt Show.
Creative Writing. Nationally recognized authors will be featured in book signings and workshops. Back by popular demand: the Festival’s Creative Writing Competition.
The Great Outdoors. Whether by foot or by bike, get a close-up look at ecology, wildlife habitats, farms and cave environments. Local experts will show you the geological faces of the area, and naturalists will guide you on leisurely walks looking for wild plants and animals.
Local History & Culture. Re-enactments include Civil War generals, an indentured servant, and more. Returning will be tours of historic sites for both young and old. New this year: Join archaeologists at Digging for History at the Fields-Penn 1860 House Museum.
Home & Garden. Take a peek in other people’s homes. Learn about organic farming and sample foods produced locally with down-home common sense. Back by popular demand: Two days of Kitchen Tours.
Music. Performances range from Classical Sundays to a weekday Noon Time Series, to Celtic Weekend, Gospel Music Day, and two days of Old-Time/Bluegrass Music.
Performing Arts. Headliners include renowned juggler Mark Nizer and the Tennessee Children’s Dance Ensemble. In the middle of it all is the historic Barter Theatre in repertory and the Appalachian Festival of Plays & Playwrights.
Youth & Family. Once again, the Youth Tent will feature hands-on activities, including Marble Making and Potter’s Wheels. For kids of all ages, the Beach Party will feature The TAMS and lots of sand for shagging the night away.
For more information, including a schedule of events, visit the Virginia Highlands Festival online at www.VaHighlandsFestival.org [2]