Hi Patrick,
I hope all has been well. Tourism visitation is off to a great start, with new faces in our community enjoying all of the festivities that the county has offered. Music has been one of the biggest draws. Starting with our Gospel Music Fest that occurred during Memorial Day, which was a huge success again. Just over the border in Henry County, they wrapped up Rooster Walk during Memorial Day as well. The First Fridays Summer Jam series has kicked off, and they have had two great shows. The Beach Music Festival was held this weekend, and they had an amazing event with the weather keeping the theme, HOT Fun in the Summertime. Yes, it was hot, very hot! The Dehart Park Pool is open for you to “find yourself there” to cool off during this weather. So, so much to talk about and do!
As our nation prepares to celebrate Independence Day, I want to personally invite residents and visitors alike to join us for Patrick County’s VA250 Weeklong Celebration of Independence. This special series of events honors our Revolutionary War heritage, our local heroes, and the community spirit that makes Patrick County such a remarkable place to visit and call home.
We will have a pre-celebration this week at the Reynolds Homestead, celebrating Juneteenth and a week-long celebration beginning June 29. The celebration begins at William Letcher’s Gravesite in Ararat. Visitors can experience Revolutionary War camps and displays, cannon firing demonstrations, historical lectures, and a fireworks display that will help kick off an exciting week (Fireworks are weather permitting).
On June 30, the Reynolds Homestead will present “Men at War,” highlighting the military service and sacrifices of those connected to the Reynolds family and Homestead. July 1 brings a fascinating presentation at the John D. Hooker Building in Stuart, exploring the history of the Eliphaz Shelton family and their contributions to our region.
The excitement continues on July 3 with activities across the county. The Woolwine Volunteer Fire Department will host a Cruise-In, crafts, music, patriotic contests, and fireworks. The Stuart Farmers’ Market welcomes visitors for the First Friday Summer Jam featuring Slick Jr. and the Reactors, while Fairy Stone State Park offers an evening of live bluegrass music with the Kitchen Pickers.
On Independence Day, July 4, Patrick County will be filled with opportunities to celebrate. The Patrick County Historical Society will dedicate a monument honoring local heroes of the American Revolution beginning at 10 a.m. The Vesta Community Center hosts an Old Time and Bluegrass Music Competition and a Quilts of Valor presentation honoring veterans. DeHart Park will feature pool games, family entertainment, and fireworks.
At 2 p.m., residents throughout the county are encouraged to participate in a countywide ringing of bells in recognition of our nation’s founding. Also enjoy a unique “Red, White, and Canoe” paddling event on Fairy Stone Lake.
Families will also enjoy a countywide scavenger hunt from June 29 through July 4. Five patriotic rubber ducks will be hidden throughout Patrick County. Find one and bring it to the Visitor Center to receive a free commemorative T-shirt.
These events showcase the rich history, scenic beauty, and welcoming communities that make Patrick County a premier destination in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you’re interested in history, music, outdoor recreation, or family fun, there is something for everyone during this weeklong celebration.
For updates and additional information, follow the Friends of Patrick County Tourism Facebook page, our website: https://visitpatrickcounty.org/, or contact the Patrick County Visitor Center at 276-693-2005, which will have all of the latest information on upcoming events.
Once again, come find yourself in Patrick County for a celebration of our history, our home, our music, our families, and the history that has made us. God Bless the United States of America, In God we Trust!!
All my best,
James Houchins
jhouchins@co.patrick.va.us
Director of Economic Development and Tourism
