Virginia hosts countless music festivals throughout the year, and we believe each one is worth attending. But, the record for the longest-running music festival in the state belongs to the much-loved Shenandoah Valley Music Festival. Since 1963, this local festival has brought some incredible live music to the Shenandoah Valley, and it’s a lineup that somehow keeps getting better and better. So, whether you consider yourself a music fan or simply love taking part in traditions, you’ll agree that this small-town music festival in Virginia is one you’ll want to attend!

This year’s event runs until September 3rd, 2023. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival website or calling 540-459-3396.

Tucked away in western Shenandoah County awaits a secluded and stunning location for a long-standing Virginia tradition: the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Facebook
The festival is held at Shrine Mont, which is a 1,000-acre retreat and event center owned by the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia.
Each year, the event draws thousands of music fans from across Virginia and even the mid-Atlantic. Visitors share that their favorite part about the concert, in addition to the music, of course, is the relaxed, outdoor atmosphere.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Facebook
Attendees can bring their own chairs, picnic blankets, and food to enjoy while they listen to live performances.
Speaking of music, there's always an impressive lineup to enjoy. From award-winning artists to local bands, there's no shortage of talent here.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Facebook
Some past performers have included Bruce Hornsby, Mary Chapin Carpenter, the Beach Boys, LeAnn Rimes, and many more.

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The tradition started with the American Symphony Orchestra League, which would host summer workshops at the Orkney Springs Hotel every year.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Facebook
These workshops would transform the otherwise sleepy town into a lively event filled with world-class music. The rehearsals would draw the attention of locals and hotel guests alike, who were thrilled by the live performances.

So how did this retreat turn into the music festival we know and love today? According to local legend, one brave audience member who was getting impatient with the orchestra rehearsal's constant starts and stops yelled out a request that they play a full song from beginning to end. The rest, as they say, is history!
Through the years, different styles of music were performed, in addition to the original symphonic concerts held in the first few years.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Facebook
Today, you'll enjoy hearing country music, bluegrass music, pop-rock, folk, and just about everything in between.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Facebook
One thing's for sure: you won't help but have a great time when you attend the longest-standing music festival in the state.
Shenandoah Valley Music Festival / Facebook

Have you ever attended the Shenandoah Valley Music Festival? What did you think about this small-town music festival in Virginia? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! And be sure to check out some places to stay near Orkney Springs, Virginia.

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217 Shrine Mont Cir, Orkney Springs, VA 22845, USA