Important Appalachian Festivals to Know for Appalachian Studies

Appalachian festivals celebrate the region's rich cultural heritage through music, crafts, and storytelling. These events highlight local traditions, foster community engagement, and preserve the unique identity of Appalachia, making them essential to understanding the broader themes in Appalachian Studies.

1. Mountain Heritage Day (Western Carolina University)

   • Celebrates the cultural heritage of the Appalachian region through music, crafts, and food.
   • Features local artisans showcasing traditional crafts and skills.
   • Includes performances by regional musicians, highlighting Appalachian music genres.

2. Appalachian Festival (Cincinnati, Ohio)

   • Focuses on the arts, crafts, and culture of the Appalachian region.
   • Offers a variety of workshops and demonstrations on traditional Appalachian crafts.
   • Hosts live music performances, storytelling, and food vendors featuring Appalachian cuisine.

3. Hillbilly Days Festival (Pikeville, Kentucky)

   • Celebrates the unique culture and heritage of Eastern Kentucky.
   • Features a parade, live music, and a variety of food options, including local specialties.
   • Raises funds for local charities and community projects through various activities.

4. Appalachian String Band Music Festival (Clifftop, West Virginia)

   • A gathering of string band musicians from across the country to celebrate traditional Appalachian music.
   • Offers workshops, contests, and jam sessions for musicians of all skill levels.
   • Emphasizes the preservation and promotion of old-time music traditions.

5. National Storytelling Festival (Jonesborough, Tennessee)

   • Recognized as one of the premier storytelling events in the United States.
   • Features storytellers from diverse backgrounds sharing tales that reflect Appalachian culture.
   • Encourages the art of storytelling as a means of preserving history and culture.

6. Galax Old Fiddlers' Convention (Galax, Virginia)

   • The oldest and largest fiddlers' convention in the United States, celebrating old-time music.
   • Attracts musicians and fans from all over, featuring competitions in various categories.
   • Promotes the preservation of traditional Appalachian music and culture.

7. Appalachian Fair (Gray, Tennessee)

   • Combines traditional fair activities with a focus on Appalachian culture.
   • Features livestock shows, craft exhibits, and live entertainment, including music and dance.
   • Highlights local agriculture and community involvement through various competitions.

8. Autumn Glory Festival (Oakland, Maryland)

   • Celebrates the beauty of fall in the Appalachian region with a focus on local arts and crafts.
   • Includes a parade, live music, and various outdoor activities for families.
   • Promotes local businesses and tourism while showcasing the region's natural beauty.

9. Vandalia Gathering (Charleston, West Virginia)

   • A celebration of West Virginia's cultural heritage through music, dance, and crafts.
   • Features performances by traditional musicians and dancers, as well as craft demonstrations.
   • Aims to preserve and promote the state's folk traditions and cultural identity.

10. Appalachian Festival (Roanoke, Virginia)

    • Highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Appalachian region through arts, crafts, and music.
    • Offers a platform for local artisans and musicians to showcase their talents.
    • Engages the community with workshops, demonstrations, and family-friendly activities.