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The holiday season in Southwest Virginia comes alive with a spectacular lineup of theatrical and musical performances that make this time of year truly magical. From timeless classics to enchanting concerts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Barter Theatre: A Holiday Tradition The iconic Barter Theatre in Abingdon, the nation’s longest-running professional theater, is a must-visit destination for holiday entertainment. This December, delight in the newest adaptation of A Christmas Carol, a cherished tale of redemption and...

The holiday season has arrived, and Southwest Virginia is aglow with magical ways to celebrate! From twinkling light shows to festive events, there’s no shortage of ways to create unforgettable memories this Christmas season. Sure, your neighborhood lights are beautiful, but if you’re ready to take your holiday spirit to the next level, Southwest Virginia’s dazzling light displays are just a short drive away and promise an experience filled with wonder and joy. High Country Lights, Galax For...

Spending time with your family is one of the many things that make the holidays so very special. In Southwest Virginia, where family gatherings are near and dear to our hearts, there are always plenty of fun activities to enjoy together at Christmas. Mountain Lake Lodge’s Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace One of the most joyful places to create holiday memories is the Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace at Mountain Lake Lodge in Pembroke. Nestled amidst the stunning...

Whether it’s homemade Christmas cookies and hot chocolate, a breakfast buffet, or a winter wonderland-inspired dinner, you can experience an authentic taste of the holidays all over Southwest Virginia. Breakfast With Santa Jolly old St. Nick will land his sleigh at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace on Dec. 7, ready to enjoy a delicious meal with his elves at the Family Breakfast with Santa. Enjoy a delightful family experience that includes reindeer games, arts and crafts,...

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Across Southwest Virginia, towns and cities are decking the halls, tuning their band instruments, and rolling out the floats to kick off the holiday season in style with festive Christmas parades. Each parade comes with its own unique flair, making every event a magical experience worth attending. 🎅 Bristol: A Century of Holiday Magic (December 5) For over 100 years, Bristol has dazzled parade-goers with its Christmas spectacle, and...

Hurricane Helene Travel Impact and Updates for SWVA   MESSAGE FROM FRIENDS OF SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA Our thoughts and prayers are with the communities in Southwest Virginia and our neighboring states that have been affected by Hurricane Helene. Although the storm has passed, its repercussions will linger in some areas for weeks, months, and years ahead. The safety of both residents and visitors is our highest priority. The Virginia Department of Emergency Management and the Virginia Department of Transportation are closely...

Experience the magic of the holidays and the fascination of the start of a New Year with Mountain Lake Lodge. This brand new event atMountain Lake Lodge immerses visitors in the rich history of the New River Valley and introduces guests to the breathtaking views throughout Giles County and beyond. Its connection to culture and spotlight from the iconic Dirty Dancing film provides an unmatched experience. Guests can take advantage of the delightful offerings through a Village...

There are many wonderful places to visit in Southwest Virginia, particularly if you love handmade works of art or want to get your creative juices flowing. To make it a little easier to check them off your bucket list, we’ve compiled a list of venues we know you’ll love visiting.    Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace This beautiful state-of-the-art facility is the gateway to Southwest Virginia’s rich culture and creative economy. Here you can enjoy the beautiful work...

Take the Plunge: Can’t Miss Southwest Virginia Water Destinations   It’s summer, the temps are climbing, and the water is calling! If you’re looking to cool off and enjoy some of Southwest Virginia’s most beautiful sites, you’re in luck because the region is overflowing with incredible water destinations. From rivers and lakes to falls and parks, there are a number of must-visit locations in Southwest Virginia that we know will make a big splash with our visitors. Here...

Top Stops Along The Crooked Road  The musical heritage of Southwest Virginia is a celebration of one of the richest traditions in the world - Appalachia music, which includes various genres such as old-time, folk, country, and bluegrass. Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail, known as The Crooked Road, is a regional destination famous for celebrating heritage music throughout the year. It covers 19 counties, 4 cities, and 54 towns and communities. The trail features ten major venues, over...