While our area may look serene and quiet from a distance, you’ll find upon entering the Blue Ridge Crossroads that this region is rich in history and alive with activity.

For most of the year the tiny town of Hillsville claims a population of fewer than 3,000. However, during Labor Day weekend, 300,000 treasure hunters and antique collectors descend upon the area for the annual Hillsville VFW Gun Show and Flea Market, the largest flea market east of the Mississippi. Similarly, the quaint city of Galax swells with musicians and music lovers during the annual Old Fiddler’s Convention. Numerous other activities, events, and festivals are held throughout the year, among them the Leaf and String Festival,  Smoke on the Mountain and the Mountain Foliage Festival.

Visitors who want to engage their inner history buff can step back in time as they meander around the Matthews Living History Farm Museum, a 21-acre working farm which gives visitors a glimpse into life on a farm circa 1900. Other great attractions for history enthusiasts include the 1874 Carroll County Courthouse and the Historic 1908 Courthouse in Grayson County. The 1908 Courthouse is home to many historical artifacts from the area and hosts a variety of local events, including a popular Music Jam every Wednesday.

In 2005, a small group of craftsmen began what is today ‘Round the Mountain, a network of artisans whose mission is to promote sustainable economic development of the region’s communities by assisting local artisans with marketing, educational, and entrepreneurial opportunities. Comprised of members from all over Southwest Virginia, ‘Round the Mountain promotes education and tourism through a trail system and a variety of classes.

So come by and experience an area thriving with activity and rich in cultural heritage. We can’t wait to share it with you.