Celebrate America’s 250th in Patrick County, VA!
Patrick County is no stranger to important, historic events. Our small county witnessed the birth of a nation and many other historic events. History comes to life in Patrick County. From the rolling hills of Laurel Hill to the historic Reynolds Homestead, Patrick County invites visitors to experience the history and culture that make our county unique. Explore Fairy Stone State Park and walk in the footsteps of moonshiners who once roamed the dense woods. Learn more about the forgotten town of Fayerdale, a once-booming mining town now buried under the lake. Stay at one of the park’s original CC Camp cabins or connect with nature in the newly renovated campground.
We’re celebrating 250 years of American Independence with a week of fun, family-friendly events all over the county. From historic presentations to fireworks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Monday, June 29
Rubber Duck Scavenger Hunt
Starting on June 29th, five patriotic rubber ducks will be hidden throughout the county. Participants have until July 4th to find one of the ducks. Bring your duck to the Patrick County Visitor Center to receive a Patrick County t-shirt.
VA250 Celebration: Letcher’s Gravesite
Our week-long celebration kicks off in Ararat with a special presentation by local author Tom Perry. William Letcher was known as a staunch supporter of American independence before dying during the American Revolution in August 1780. His gravesite is the oldest marked grave in Patrick County. The event will feature educational displays on Laurel Hill Farm, birthplace of Civil War General JEB Stuart, and cannon firings. The Ararat Ruritans will be providing free refreshments. Come out and learn more about the Revolutionary War and Patrick County’s history.
Monday Market at Fairy Stone State Park
Head over to the Monday Market at Fairy Stone State Park for fresh produce, crafts, and more!
Tuesday, June 30
VA250 Celebration: Reynolds Homestead
The Reynolds Homestead will host a special presentation titled Reynolds Homestead: Men at War. Throughout the years, individuals connected to the Reynolds family and the enslaved community of Rock Spring plantation actively engaged in military service. The VA250 event to be held at the Reynolds Homestead on Tuesday, June 30, at 7pm will share the stories of those who actively served in the military, including:
– Richard Joshua Cox carried a Peruvian coin he credited with preserving his life during the French and Indian and Revolutionary Wars.
– How at age 17 A.D. Reynolds, became a Major in the Confederate Army. Squire Cobb, the enslaved valet who remained by his side despite opportunities to escape to freedom.
Wednesday, July 1
VA250 Presentation: Eliphaz Shelton Family
Beverly Woody will give a special presentation on the Eliphaz Shelton family at the John D. Hooker Building starting at 5:30pm. Light refreshments will be provided.
Friday, July 3
Stuart Farmers’ Market
Spend Friday morning at the Stuart Farmers’ Market. You’ll find a great selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables, baked goods, eggs, meats, arts & crafts, flowers, and more.
United States of America 250th Celebration
The Woolwine Volunteer Fire Department will host a special 250th Celebration starting at 5pm at the fire department. Spend the evening celebrating America’s independence at the fun, family-friendly event. Enjoy an array of fun games, crafts, and other activities. Dress up in your best reds, whites, and blues for the most patriotic contest. Bring your classic cars, street rods, or favorite car enthusiast for the cruise-in. This will be a fun evening you won’t want to miss.
The Kitchen Pickers at Fairy Stone State Park
Learn more about the history of bluegrass music and listen to a live performance by the Kitchen Pickers at Fairy Stone State Park! This program will track the origin of this style of music back to its roots and the influence the Scottish, Irish, and English pioneers who settled along the Appalachian Mountains had on it.
The Sunset Market
Enjoy an evening in Meadows of Dan at the Sunset Market. Stroll through a growing collection of local farmers, makers, bakers, artists, and small businesses while enjoying live music, delicious food, and a relaxed evening in the meadow.
First Friday Summer Jam
Head over to the Stuart Farmers’ Market for a fun, family-friendly evening filled with good music, food, and plenty of craft brews. Bring a lawn chair, gather your crew, and enjoy an evening of music, community, and summertime fun before the Independence Day festivities begin. This month’s edition of First Fridays will feature the local favorite Slick Jr. & the Reactors.
Saturday, July 4
Monument Dedication
The Patrick County Historical Society will host a monument dedication at 10am in front of the Patrick County Library. This monument honors local heroes of the American Revolution.
Vesta 4th of July Celebration
Head over to the Vesta Community Center for a fun, family-friendly celebration! Tap your toes to live music as local musicians perform in the bluegrass and old-time competition. Admire the work of local quilters with quilt displays provided by the Mountain Top Quilters. The event will host a variety of games for kids and adults to participate in. Concessions will be available.
Bingo & Tie-Dye at Fairy Stone State Park
Join the Friends of Fairy Stone at the beach for a festive Fourth of July celebration filled with colorful fun! Spend the day tie-dyeing bandanas and playing Independence Day-themed bingo. The Friends of Fairy Stone State Park will provide all materials, so come out and celebrate America’s Independence. This event will begin at 11am.
Dehart Park 4th of July Activities
Stuart’s Dehart Park will host games and other activities starting at 12pm.
Ringing of the Bells
Churches and other locations all across the county will participate in the Ringing of the Bells starting at 2pm. This tradition is encouraged by the US Congressional Resolution 25 (1963).
Red, White, & Canoe at Fairy Stone State Park
Celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a relaxing paddle on Fairy Stone Lake. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and discover what makes Fairy Stone one of the best destinations in Patrick County. Canoes and personal flotation devices will be provided. Please bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen; wear closed-toe shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and/or wet. The program cost is $15 per canoe rental or $5 to bring your own boat. The paddle will begin at 6pm and is subject to change due to weather conditions.
Sunset Market
Enjoy an evening in Meadows of Dan at the Sunset Market. Stroll through a growing collection of local farmers, makers, bakers, artists, and small businesses while enjoying live music, delicious food, and a relaxed evening in the meadow.
4th of July Fireworks
It wouldn’t be the 4th of July without fireworks. Snag your spot near Stuart’s Dehart Park before the sun goes down for the town’s annual fireworks display.
Sunday, July 5th
Milepost Music at Mabry Mill
The Blue Ridge Music Center will host Milepost Music with Jared Boyd from 2pm-4pm. Jared Boyd is a clawhammer banjo and rhythm guitar player from Galax, Va. He has played at the Galax Old Fiddlers’ Conventions and gigs around Virginia and North Carolina solo and as a member of the Twin Creeks Stringband.