Hi Patrick,
Well, we made it! The excitement of Patrick County’s VA250 Week-Long Celebration of Independence came to a close. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who helped make this celebration one of our community’s finest. The committee had a vision, and we saw it come to fruition.
Over the course of the week, we witnessed what makes Patrick County truly special—neighbors working together, volunteers giving countless hours, organizations collaborating, and visitors discovering the rich history, natural beauty, and genuine hospitality that define our county—from our Revolutionary War heritage to our patriotic celebrations, the week showcased the very best of Patrick County.
A sincere thank you goes to every organization, business, church, civic club, nonprofit, volunteer fire department, historical group, musician, vendor, sponsor, and volunteer who dedicated their time and talents. Your commitment transformed ordinary days into extraordinary experiences for our residents and visitors alike.
Thank you to the Reynolds Homestead, the Laurel Hill Preservation group, the Patrick County Historical Society, the Woolwine Volunteer Fire Department, the Stuart Farmers’ Market, Fairy Stone State Park, the Vesta Community Center, DeHart Park, and the many other community partners who hosted outstanding events throughout the week. From historical presentations and military demonstrations to bluegrass music, fireworks, family activities, and patriotic ceremonies, every event reflected the pride we have in our heritage and our future.
I also want to recognize our local businesses, restaurants, lodging partners, and retailers who warmly welcomed visitors from across Virginia and beyond. Your hospitality leaves a lasting impression and strengthens Patrick County’s reputation as a premier destination in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
To everyone who attended—even if you came to just one event—thank you for celebrating with us. Your participation brought our communities together, honored those who came before us, and created new memories for future generations. Seeing families gathered, children learning about our nation’s founding, veterans being honored, and neighbors enjoying one another’s company reminded us why these celebrations are so important.
Special appreciation goes to our county staff; Sabrina Rorrer our summer college intern, Sue Kolljeski, Grace Cooper, and Noah Mabe, our VA250 committee; BJ Nolan, Patrick Delaney, John Reynolds, Mary Dellenback Hill, Ronnie Hayes, Billy Curren, Tom Perry, Ann McConnell, Kieth Gunter, Bud Thompson, our law enforcement officers, emergency medical services, public works employees, tourism partners, and all those working behind the scenes to ensure every event was safe, organized, and enjoyable. Your professionalism and dedication often go unnoticed, but they are essential to the success of celebrations like these.
The VA250 Week-Long Celebration demonstrated that Patrick County is more than a beautiful place to visit—it is a community built on patriotism, service, history, and hospitality. Together, we honored our past while investing in our future as a destination where people come to experience authentic small-town America.
On behalf of Patrick County Tourism and the Economic Development Authority, thank you for making this celebration such an overwhelming success. We are grateful for your support and look forward to welcoming you back for many more events throughout the year.
Until next time, continue to explore, support, and “find yourself here” and celebrate all that Patrick County has to offer.
Our website, https://visitpatrickcounty.org/, will have all the latest information on upcoming events.
God Bless the United States of America, In God we Trust!!
All my best,
James Houchins,
Director of Economic Development and Tourism
