Escape To The Southeast Escape To The Southeast
Monica Mitchell describes her favorite event in Virginia — Floydfest
It’s difficult to choose just one event in Virginia to call my favorite because there are so many incredible events that have become annual traditions for me. When asked to narrow down to just one, I have to choose Floydfest because it’s the one event I find myself anticipating all year long.
Floydfest is a five-day music festival held just outside the town of Floyd in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Music is the main draw, including sounds of bluegrass, folk, country and some funk and jam bands, but there is also a special cultural element to the festival. You experience exactly what it is immediately upon entering the gates from the unique vendors, artists and whimsical decorations. No matter what bands are scheduled, attendees count on the same welcoming and friendly vibe year after year. I’m convinced it’s one of the happiest places on Earth!
Always held at the end of July during the hottest time of the year in Virginia, Floydfest also feels like a summertime retreat. The mountains surrounding the festival bring cooler temperatures in the evenings, requiring a little bundling up after the sun sets over Rocky Knob — one of the most magical sunsets I’ve ever seen. This past summer was my fourth Floydfest, and I’ve already decided I’ll be attending for many, many years to come — and I hope you will, too!
