The 5 Best Festivals Around Harrisonburg

Festivals in the Valley are more than events—they’re celebrations of local culture, food, and community spirit. In this year’s Best of the Valley readers’ choice contest, voters honored festivals that bring neighbors together with live music, crafts, seasonal traditions, and family-friendly fun. These gatherings capture the heart and energy of the region—one day, one smile, one memory at a time.

Elkton Autumn Days in Elkton transforms the town into a vibrant fall festival with craft vendors, artisan goods, seasonal foods, and kids’ activities. The event feels like a warm pie on a crisp autumn day—perfect for browsing handcrafted treasures, sampling local treats, and enjoying live entertainment in a welcoming small‑town setting.

Bridgewater Lawn Party brings neighbors together for a summer evening of food trucks, live music, and fireworks by the river. Hosted by the local volunteer fire department, the event combines community spirit with playful fun—bounce houses for kids, local bands to set the mood, and a grand finale that lights up the sky in a celebration of summer.

Dayton Days Autumn Celebration offers three days of fall-themed festivities that highlight Dayton’s community heritage. With craft shows, seasonal foods, tractor pulls, live music, and children’s events, it captures small-town charm and brings families together to enjoy the season’s bounty and camaraderie.

Highland County Maple Festival celebrates the region's maple syrup tradition with a weekend full of pancake breakfasts, historic syrup-making demonstrations, arts and crafts, and Appalachian music. Visitors can explore vendor village while savoring fresh syrup on hot cakes—an event that blends natural flavors with mountain hospitality.

Woodstock VFW Craft Fair & Community Festival offers a local touch with hand-made crafts, baked goods, and community booths—all organized by the local VFW post. It’s a festive space where families can shop for artisan creations, support veterans, and enjoy small-town fellowship.

These festivals reflect what Best of the Valley voters value most: seasonal celebration, creative craftsmanship, and events that weave local culture into shared experiences.

Thanks, ChatGPT.