The Patrick County Chamber of Commerce invites the public to “the largest single-day event in Patrick County,” as Walmart presents the 2016 Virginia Peach Festival, according to Tim Collins, chamber director.
The 29th annual Virginia Peach Festival will be held at the scenic Wayside Park from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 19.
The gates will open at 4 p.m. and the music will start at 6 p.m.
The chamber of commerce has joined with Walmart and other sponsors to once again make this event free to the public. However, $5 will be charged per car for parking, with the money collected to benefit local fire departments and rescue squads.
“Festival-goers will continue to enjoy everything they have come to love about the Peach Festival, including food, crafts, vendors and loads and loads of homemade peaches,” Collins said, “with the addition of having the option to camp at Wayside Park by calling 276-692-4149.”
Headlining this year’s musical line-up will be A.J. Ghent. “Ghent carries on the family tradition as a master of the lap steel guitar,” Collins said. “With a sound that transcends genres, the A.J. Ghent Band has opened up for acts (including) the Zac Brown Band, Govt. Mule, Robert Cray, and the Allman Brothers.”
This year’s program also features the talents of festival favorites Slick Jr. and the Reactors, along with Christopher Wood, “ a musician that has to be heard to be believed,” Collins said.
The music is sponsored by the Historic Star Theatre.
In order to make this event more kid-friendly, the chamber of commerce has partnered with Outdoor Entertainment to make the popular Kids Zone rides free again this year. The Kids Zone will feature an obstacle course, slide and bouncer for children to enjoy.
“So bring the family because there will be something for everyone,” Collins said.
