AUG. 21

KINGSPORT CHAMBER TO HOST U.S. REP. DIANA HARSHBARGER BREAKFAST -- The Kingsport Chamber will host U.S. Rep. Diana Harshbarger for Breakfast at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21, at the Food City Clinchfield Press Room located at 300 Clinchfield St., Kingsport, Tennessee. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear a federal update directly from Rep. Harshbarger, who represents Tennessee's First Congressional District. The Congresswoman will share insights on current legislative priorities, national policy developments and key issues affecting Northeast Tennessee. The cost to attend is $25, and breakfast will be provided. To RSVP, please visit www.kingsportchamber.org/events.

MECC ALUMNI EVENT CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN NURSING EDUCATION -- Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) is honored to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our esteemed Nursing Program at a special alumni event Thursday, Aug. 21, at 5:30 p.m. in the Goodloe Center. MECC invites alumni, faculty, students, and community members to join us in commemorating this milestone. The evening will feature an inspiring keynote address by Barb Bancroft, a renowned educator and speaker whose expertise and insight continue to shape the future of healthcare. Tickets are $50 and will include dinner, drinks, and entertainment. To register, visit https://www.mecc.edu/events/celebrating-50-years-of-excellence-in-nursing-education. For more information, contact Deb Clarkston, Nursing Program Coordinator, at 276-523-2400 or by email at dclarkston@mecc.edu.

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UNICOI COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERSHIP LUNCHEON -- Erwin, TN. The Unicoi County Chamber of Commerce invites local business and community leaders to attend its upcoming membership luncheon on Thursday, Aug. 21, at noon at Erwin Town Hall, located at 211 North Main Avenue, Erwin. The membership luncheon will be sponsored by CSX. During the luncheon, CSX will provide an update on the efforts that are underway to rebuild its Blue Ridge subdivisions. In addition, the membership luncheon will feature exciting updates from the Chamber, including details about upcoming events and initiatives. The event offers a welcoming environment for networking with fellow professionals from across the community, all while enjoying a delicious meal and the chance to win fun door prizes. The luncheon is free for Chamber members, and non-members are invited to attend at a cost of $20 per ticket. Advance reservations are required by Tuesday, August 19, as seating is limited and expected to fill quickly. Non-member tickets must be paid for prior to the event to confirm registration. Reserve your seat by calling 423-743-3000 or email amanda@unicoicounty.org.

AUG. 22

DENNIS PHILLIPS LEADERSHIP KINGSPORT GOLF TOURNAMENT -- The Kingsport Chamber Leadership Kingsport program announced today the 10th annual golf tournament named in honor of former Kingsport Mayor Dennis Phillips. The tournament tees off Friday, August 22, at Cattails at MeadowView. Registration is 8 a.m. with tee time at 9 a.m. Team awards will be given as well as awards for hole competitions for longest drive, most accurate drive and closest to the pin. Cost to enter is $560 per team, with four players per team. This includes green fees, cart, light breakfast and a boxed lunch. Mulligans and red tees will be available for purchase. Hole sponsorships are available for $250. The Dennis Discount Package, which includes a team of four and a hole sponsorship, is $650. To enter the 10th Annual Dennis Phillips Leadership Kingsport Golf Tournament or to sponsor a hole, call the Kingsport Chamber at (423) 392-8820 or send an e-mail to Vanessa Bennett at vbennett@kingsportchamber.org.

SUNNY SWEENEY -- Galax, VA. The Rex Theater welcomes acclaimed singer-songwriter Sunny Sweeney on Friday, Aug. 22, at 7 p.m., for a night of honky-tonk rhythms, clever storytelling, and heartfelt country songwriting. Doors open at 6 p.m. For nearly two decades, Sweeney has carved out her own lane in country music with a distinctive voice that's warm but stubborn, sad but funny, rowdy but thoughtful. Known as a patron saint of broken hearts on the mend, she brings honesty, independence, and emotional depth to every performance. Her upcoming album, "Rhinestone Requiem," is a masterclass in traditional country style, brimming with steel guitar, piano-soaked swagger, and lyrics that land with wisdom and wit. With several critically acclaimed albums to her name, Sweeney is also the host of two popular SiriusXM shows and has recently stepped into the producer's chair alongside her longtime guitarist, Harley Husbands. Tickets are on sale now at rex.theater.

AUG. 23

BARRACUDA, AMERICA'S HEART TRIBUTE -- Marion, VA. The Lincoln Theatre, 117 E. Main Street Marion, VA 24354, will host Barracuda: America's Heart Tribute on Saturday, Aug. 23 at 7:30 p.m. Taking audiences on a musical journey back in time, Barracuda-America's Heart Tribute faithfully recreates Heart's radio & chart-topping hits that are loved by fans worldwide. Hailing from Music City (Nashville, TN), each extremely talented member is world-traveled with an impressive resume. The band is renowned nationwide for its powerhouse vocals, exceptional musicianship, and electrifying live performances. This hand-picked band is the busiest Heart Tribute in the USA. With their highly stylized concert presentation of Heart's greatest hits, no audience member will be disappointed. For more information and event tickets, visit www.thelincoln.org or call 276-783-6092.

BIRTHPLACE OF COUNTRY MUSIC MUSEUM VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION -- The Birthplace of Country Music Museum is actively seeking enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to help share the story of country music with visitors from around the world. The next Museum Volunteer Orientation session will be held on Saturday, Aug. 23, 10 a.m.-noon. This session provides a perfect opportunity for potential volunteers to learn about the various roles available and how they can get involved in this exciting, hands-on museum experience. The museum holds volunteer orientations every other month, with upcoming sessions scheduled for Oct. 18 and Dec. 13, 10 a.m.-noon. Opportunities range from working as gallery assistants and docents to assisting with events, concerts, and programs. Volunteers can also lend a hand in The Museum Store or help with administrative tasks, blog post writing, and collections work. If you are interested in attending, email volunteercoordinator@birthplaceofcountrymusic.org. For more information, visit BirthplaceOfCountryMusic.org.

FAMILY FUN DAY -- Grundy, VA. All Buchanan County school-aged children and their families are invited to come out and celebrate our very first Family Fun Day, a completely free event packed with food, games, prizes, and activities for all ages, on Saturday, Aug. 23, on Main and Walnut Streets in Grundy, by the courthouse. Rain or shine! Please Note: In the case of rain, the event will be moved to the first floor of the Walmart parking building. The day will be divided into two sessions to ensure everyone has an unforgettable time: Pre-K through 5th Grade: 1-5 p.m. Younger children can enjoy carnival-style games, prizes, face painting, inflatables, and more. 6th through 12th Grade: 5-9 p.m. Older kids and teens will have a blast with music from a live DJ, karaoke, limbo, a street dance, and a glow party. Families can expect plenty of food, fun, and age-appropriate activities, all at no cost. For more information, contact the Buchanan County Chamber of Commerce at 276-935-4147 or director@bcchamber.net.

'PETER/WENDY' -- Shreds & Patches Theater Company invites audiences to take flight in their upcoming production of "Peter/Wendy," Jeremy Bloom's reimagining of J.M. Barrie's beloved classic. Stripping the story down to its emotional essence, Bloom's adaptation captures the wonder, longing, and bittersweet truths at the heart of Peter Pan's world. Pro-Art proudly presents Shreds & Patches Theater Company in "Peter/Wendy" on Saturday, Aug. 23, at 7 p.m. at Lyric Theater in St. Paul. Children and students will be admitted free to the performance. Adult tickets are $15 at the door. Learn more at proartva.org.

REPTICON KNOXVILLE: A WALK AMONG THE WILD THINGS -- Knoxville, TN. Repticon, a recognized leader in hosting reptile and exotic animal expos throughout the United States, is coming to Knoxville on Saturday, Aug. 23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., & Sunday, Aug. 24, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at the Chilhowee Park & Exposition Center, Jacob Building, 3301 E Magnolia Ave., Knoxville, TN 37914, with an outstanding mixture of vendors and breeders. This family-oriented, fun-filled event offers guests the opportunity to learn about animals not normally seen in local pet stores. Breeder-vendors are always willing to teach in their field of herpetology. Guests can also shop for a new family pet among the hundreds of reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, arachnids, and small exotic animals. Repticon Knoxville is also the perfect place for them to get merchandise, cages, supplies, and both live and frozen feeders, as well as to get expert advice about caring for their new household member. This event offers a unique family outing suitable for all ages and for a very diverse range of enthusiasts. Ticket options (sold online only) include $15 Super Ticket (entry for both days), $12 Saturday (all day), $10 Saturday (after 1 p.m.), $12 Sunday (all day), $6 for children 5-12, and FREE admission for children 4 and under. To purchase tickets or for more information about the show, please visit our website: https://repticon.com/tennessee/knoxville/.

SOURDOUGH 101 COURSE -- Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is hosting another Sourdough 101 course from 2-3:30 p.m. on Aug. 23 at the V.O. Dobbins, Sr. Complex (301 Louis St.). The cost of the class is $20 for city residents and $25 for non-city residents. No equipment is necessary, and all supplies will be provided. Open for participants ages 16 and older. Sourdough 101 is a hands-on introductory class that covers the basics of maintaining a healthy starter, mixing and fermenting dough, shaping loaves, and achieving that perfect crust and crumb. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your baking skills, this class will give you the confidence you need to bake delicious-tasting sourdough bread at home. Register by going to the V.O. Dobbins Sr. Complex (301 Louis St.) or by visiting https://bit.ly/4mpzldt. You can also click on the CivicRec link in the Connect Kingsport app or go to www.kingsporttn.gov and click on the "CivicRec" link, then search for "sourdough" in the search bar. For more information, visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

WALKING IN FRONTIER FOOTSTEPS: A GUIDED TOUR OF SYCAMORE SHOALS -- Saturday, Aug. 23, 10-11 a.m. at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W. Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: $5. Registration required at www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. Join Museum Curator Chad Bogart for a special guided interpretive walk through the grounds of Sycamore Shoals and along portions of the walking path. Discover the historical events that took place at Sycamore Shoals and their significance in the formation of our State and Country. Dress appropriately for the weather as we will be taking a casual stroll on the walking path and through the park grounds. Portions of the walk will include ground that may not be flat or solid for people with mobility challenges. Meet in the picnic area adjacent to the Visitors Center. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

AUG. 24

SINGING WITH FAITHFUL 2 -- Sunday, Aug. 24, 10 a.m. Vance Bible Church, 425 Broyles Lane, Bristol, Tenn. For more information, call 713-498-1191 or visit www.faithful2.org.

SINGING WITH FAITHFUL 2 -- Sunday, Aug. 24, 3 p.m. Unity Fellowship Church, 917 Cedra Ave., Elizabethton, Tenn. For more information, call 713-498-1191 or visit www.faithful2.org.

AUG. 25

MABRY MILL ROOF REPLACEMENT CELEBRATION -- Meadows of Dan, Va. To celebrate the installation of a new shake roof atop historic Mabry Mill, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation is hosting a ribbon cutting at 11 a.m., Monday, Aug. 25, at milepost 176 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. The public is invited. The project required extensive planning to ensure historical accuracy. Additional shakes will be used to replace the roof at nearby Puckett Cabin. Rangers and National Park Service volunteers are now offering blacksmithing, weaving, outdoor cooking, and traditional Appalachian folk craft demonstrations each week at the mill. The Blue Ridge Music Center hosts free Milepost Music sessions featuring local musicians from 2 to 4 p.m., the first and third Sunday of each month.

AUG. 26

FIRST FOOD PANTRY -- The First Food Pantry at First United Methodist Church in Marion is open and will be open on the fourth Tuesday for January through October and in November and December on the third Tuesday. Hours will be 1-4 p.m. Two dates are now set for January and the church hopes to add additional dates throughout the year. The dates now set are July 22, Aug. 26, Sept. 23, Oct. 28, Nov. 18, and Dec. 16. Check the church's webpage for any schedule changes: marionfumc.org.

NATIONAL DOG DAY ICE CREAM SOCIAL -- The Kingsport Parks and Recreation Department is hosting a special event from 6-8 p.m. on Aug. 26 to celebrate National Dog Day: an Ice Cream Social at Kingsport's Dogwood Park, 800 Granby Road. The event is a great opportunity for dogs and humans alike to socialize with others, while enjoying some tasty treats from Freddy's Frozen Custard. Free pup cups for dogs and custard for sale for the humans. Though the event is free, Kingsport Parks and Recreation officials are asking folks to register to know approximately how many pup cups will be needed. To register, visit https://bit.ly/4lcRqKK. You can also register by clicking on the CivicRec link in the Connect Kingsport app or go to www.kingsporttn.gov and click on "CivicRec," then search for "ice cream social" in the search bar. For more information, visit www.kingsportparksandrecreation.org.

AUG. 27

AL-ANON -- A support group for friends and family of alcoholics and addicts meeting at 7 p.m. every Wednesday in the basement of Lebanon United Methodist Church in Elk Creek, Virginia. For more information, call 276-655-4941.

TN SERVES AND NATIONAL PUBLIC LANDS DAY VOLUNTEER WORKDAY 2025 -- Saturday, Aug. 27, 9 a.m.-noon, at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W. Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: Free. Registration required at www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. As a way to recognize NPLD and participate in the TN Serves initiative, help the staff of Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park with maintaining the Patriot's Path Walking Trail. Volunteers will roll up their sleeves, get their hands dirty, and work together to pull invasive plants such as English Ivy and Japanese Stilt Grass as part of our autumn trail maintenance. For more information, and to register, please visit the website listed above.

AUG. 28

CEMETERY SYMBOLISM -- Thursday, Aug. 28, 7-8:30 p.m., program will begin at the Carter Mansion Visitor Center, 1031 Broad Street, Elizabethton, TN 37643, and proceed to the cemetery. Cost: $5. Registration required at www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. Have you ever wondered about the meaning behind the artwork and symbols on old gravestones? Join Museum Curator Chad Bogart and spend an evening in the burial ground at the historic Carter Mansion. Learn how to translate the language of cemetery symbolism and how these images tell the stories of the deceased. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

SEASONAL FIVE-COURSE WINE DINNER AT HARD ROCK HOTEL & CASINO BRISTOL -- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol's Council Oak Steaks and Seafood will host its first Wine Dinner, a pairing with Moët & Chandon, on Thursday, Aug. 28. This dinner will be prepared with a curated selection of Moët & Chandon Champagnes, carefully chosen to perfectly pair with a delicious and seasonal five-course meal. COURSE ONE: Cornbread & Pimento Cheese Cornbread Crostini with Pimento Cheese & Benton's Bacon - Paired with Chandon Garden Spritz. COURSE TWO: Heirloom Tomato & Pickled Peach Salad, Goat Cheese Mousse, Charred Onion, Shaved Fennel, Arugula - Paired with Chandon Rosé. COURSE THREE: Smoked Ricotta & Blue Crab Ravioli, Josper Smoked Ramp Ricotta, Meyer Lemon, Brown Butter, Asparagus, Fennel Fronds - Paired with Moët Impérial. COURSE FOUR: Grilled Teres Major Steak, Local Mushrooms, Buttered Field Peas, Ash Roasted Shallot Jus - Paired with Moët Brut Imperial Rose. COURSE FIVE: Mango Pavlova Mango Champagne Sorbet, Compressed Mango, Toasted Benne Seed Brittle, Buttermilk Crème Fraiche - Paired with Moët Nectar Imperial Rose. The dinner is $160 per person, which includes the five-course meal and pairings. Reserve a seat online at http://bit.ly/4mlGtrJ. Guests must be 21+ to attend. For more information, visit https://casino.hardrock.com/bristol.

AUG. 29

ANNUAL ALVIN 'BUBBY' CROWDER SR. MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT -- Marion, VA. Come play a round to remember at the Alvin "Bubby" Crowder, Sr. Memorial Golf Tournament, hosted by The Lincoln Theatre. This memorial golf tournament is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 29, at the Holston Hills Golf Course. Registration is $75 per golfer or $300 per team. Play for a chance to win various prizes. Tee sponsorship opportunities are also available. To register, visit thelincoln.org or call 276-783-6092. For more information and event tickets, visit www.thelincoln.org or call 276-783-6092.

AUG. 30

ALBERT HASH MEMORIAL FESTIVAL -- The Albert Hash Memorial Festival will be held Saturday, Aug. 30, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., at Grayson Highlands State Park, Henderson Stage, 829 Grayson Highland Lane, Mouth of Wilson, VA 24363. The festival is held in honor of Albert Hash, fiddler and instrument maker. $10 admission + $10 parking fee per vehicle. Performances by Whitetop Mountain Band, Crooked Road Ramblers, Larry Sigmon & the VA Girls, Martha Spencer & the Wonderland Country Band, Dori Freeman, Scott Freeman, and Willard Gayheart. Crafts & food. Rain or Shine. Bring a chair.

USEFUL PLANTS OF APPALACHIA HIKE -- Saturday, Aug. 30, 2:30-3:30 p.m. at at Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park, 1651 W. Elk Ave., Elizabethton, TN 37643. Cost: Free. Registration required at www.tnstateparks.com/parks/events/sycamore-shoals. Join Park Ranger Taylor Moorefield for a walk through the park grounds and trails to see and learn about useful native plants and trees. From the so-called weeds in your yard to towering Tulip Poplars and deep forest species, learn how Native Americans and frontier folk made natural medicines and nutritious meals from the wild flora of our landscape. This program is free and suitable for all ages and will last approximately 45 minutes. Meet behind the visitor center at the bottom of the ramp. Subject to cancelation in the event of inclement weather. For more information, call 423-543-5808 or visit tnstateparks.com/parks/sycamore-shoals, sycamoreshoalstn.wordpress.com, facebook.com/sycamoreshoals or friendsofsycamoreshoals.org.

SEPT. 2

WATAUGA ASSOCIATION OF GENEALOGISTS SEPTEMBER MEETING -- The Watauga Association of Genealogists will hold their monthly meeting at the Johnson City Public Library and online via Zoom on Tuesday, September 2, at 6:30 p.m. The Zoom link can be found on the first page of the WAGS website at https://wagsnetn.org//. Our guest speaker will be Frank Collins a Retired Program Manager/Statistician for the U.S. Census Bureau and for RTI International. Mr. Collins' presentation will show how the earliest deeds from Jonesborough and the 1796 Plan of Jonesborough fit over modern maps and satellite images using Google Earth and will briefly talk about how the process is done. He will also show how the Sanborn Fire Maps from 1888 and 1939 fit over the current satellite maps and show how structures in Jonesborough have changed over time. His presentation explains how Deedmapper and Google Earth can advance the study of early structures and land records. Free and open to all!

SEPT. 3

SEPT. 4

VIOLIN AND PIANO CONCERT -- Wytheville, VA. The Wytheville Concert Series is proud to announce the opening of its 16th season with a special performance on Thursday, Sept. 4, at 7 p.m. at St. John's Episcopal Church, 275 E. Main Street, Wytheville. The evening will feature Seattle-based pianist Tim Fuller and violinist Kevin Matheson in a program titled "From Paris to Romania." The concert will highlight two sonatas for violin and piano by Romanian virtuoso violinist-composer George Enescu, whose works stand among the most compelling and original music of the early 20th century. The Sept. 4 concert is scheduled on a Thursday evening to accommodate the performers' travel, as they depart for a series of concerts in Seattle immediately following the Wytheville performance. Admission is free, though donations will be gratefully accepted to support both the Wytheville Concert Series and the Wytheville Community College Food Bank. All performances are offered under the artistic direction of Kevin Matheson. For more information and upcoming season details, please visit the Wytheville Concert Series Facebook page.

SEPT. 6

BRISTOL MUSIC CLUB MEETING -- The Bristol Music Club will meet on Saturday, Sept. 6, at 10 a.m. at State Street United Methodist Church. The program will be presented by Dr. Zachary Cooke and Dr. David Mitchell from the King University Music Department. The public is invited to hear these two professors talk about their plans for music at King. Guests are welcome.

SEPT. 8

STROKE AND BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP -- A new monthly group is now underway, offering support and resources to stroke and brain injury survivors and families/caregivers. The meetings take place free of charge at the Lifetime Wellness Center, 1 Health Way in Marion, VA. No registration is required. The public is invited to attend. The group meets on the second Monday of each month, 6-7 p.m. For more information, email: strokegroupswva@gmail.com or call Christy Jackson, 276-685-1205, or Hannah Caudill, 276-944-7266.

SEPT. 9

SUICIDE SURVIVORS SUPPORT GROUP OF THE TRI-CITIES -- Navigating the Ocean of Grief after the Suicide Death of a Loved One, facilitated by Barbara Sims, Ph.D., who lost her son, Christopher Michael Price, to suicide on January 5, 2018. We meet the second Tuesday of each month at the Summit Leadership offices, 3515 Bristol Highway, Johnson City, TN, 6-7 p.m. To get on the contact list for meeting notices or for additional information about this support group, contact Barb Sims at barb@bsims.net.

SEPT. 10

SEPT. 13

SORGHUM FESTIVAL -- The 26th Annual Sorghum Festival will allow visitors to have the opportunity to observe sorghum cane being processed into molasses using a mule-powered mill on Saturday, Sept. 13, at the Tipton-Haynes State Historic Site, 2620 South Roan St., Johnson City, from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. During the morning hours, Maggie the mule will be out turning the cast iron rollers squeezing out the delectable juices to be boiled down into molasses. The sorghum breakfast from 8-11 a.m. will feature biscuits with gravy or sorghum, sausage, bacon, eggs, oatmeal, grits and drinks. Visitors can also enjoy touring the historic structures of the property that will take you back to the 1800s. Local bluegrass and folk music will be played within the nineteenth century barn throughout the day. The historic cave will be open for everybody of all ages to explore and find their inner spelunker. Area historic museums will be on site to help promote the region's rich history. Local food trucks will be on site for visitors to enjoy a picnic lunch. There will also be several local vendors selling homemade crafts. A handful of classic and antique cars from the Model A Mac's group and Carter County Car Club will be on display for visitors view. There will also be several hit-and-miss engines from the East Tennessee Antique Engine Association. Admission with breakfast is $10 for adults, $5 for children twelve and under, and kids under 3 are free. Without breakfast admission is $6 for adults and $3 for children. As always, members of the Tipton Haynes Historical Association are FREE. Sorghum molasses will also be available for purchase, $8 per pint and $4 per half pint. For more information, call 423-926-3631.

SEPT. 17

SEPT. 19

CONTRA DANCE -- Sparta, NC. On Friday, Sept. 19, the Alleghany Arts Council will hold its monthly Contra Dance at the Sparta United Methodist Church, 190 N. Main St, Sparta, NC 28675. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. with an easy-to-learn beginner lesson followed by the main dance at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be available. These dances will be held the third Friday of the month. Tickets are $10 in advance, $10 at the door, and youth 12 and under are free with an adult. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.alleghanyartscouncil.org/events/contra-dance/. Contra dance is a form of American folk dance. It is the older cousin to the square dance. No fancy footwork needed -- if you can walk, you can dance! All the dances are taught and called. No need to bring a partner to join our friendly dance community, and it is appropriate for all ages. Lively music will be provided by Old Time Cookin' and called by George Segebade. The band will serve up driving string band dance music rooted in the NC and VA Appalachian Mountains and its foothills. You'll hear and feel their passion in the music!

SEPT. 20

NEW RIVER TRAIL CHALLENGE TRIATHLON -- Max Meadows, Va. Athletes from across the Mid-Atlantic region will convene at New River Trail State Park on Sept. 20 for the New River Trail Challenge Triathlon, presented by Dominion Energy.  The three-stage, 65.2-mile race, which is a part of the Virginia State Parks Adventure Series, begins with a 40-mile out-and-back bike leg, followed by a 12.1-mile downriver kayak paddle and ends with a half-marathon run along the river. Registration is limited to 250 participants, and athletes of all fitness levels and age groups are invited to compete solo or in teams of two or three. Overall male and female winners will receive a $250 Virginia State Parks gift certificate. The fastest team will receive a $300 gift certificate. Early registration is recommended as the Challenge reached capacity in April last year. Early registrants receive price discounts and are guaranteed a New River Trail Triathlon T-shirt. To learn more or to register, go to virginiastateparks.gov/nrt-challenge.

SEPT. 23

SEPT. 24

SEPT. 27

OPEN MIC POETRY -- Sept. 27, 6 p.m. at the Book Cellar, 112 Court St., Abingdon, Va. @TheBookCellarVA.

OCT. 1

OCT 3

BECKY BULLER -- Galax, Va. The Rex Theater, 113 East Grayson Street, Galax, Virginia 24333, is excited to announce an incredible night of live music with acclaimed artist Becky Buller on Friday, Oct. 3, at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Multi-instrumentalist, singer, and songwriter Becky Buller takes the Rex stage for an intimate evening of award-winning bluegrass. With an impressive résumé that includes three Grammy-winning albums and 10 International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) awards, Becky's music has been recorded by legends like Ricky Skaggs, Rhonda Vincent, and Doyle Lawson. Her latest album, "Jubilee," debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Album Chart, showcasing a deeply personal song cycle about resilience and hope. As a member of the all-female supergroup First Ladies of Bluegrass, Becky continues to shape the genre while also mentoring the next generation of musicians. For more information and tickets, visit https://www.rex.theater.

OCT. 4

JEFF LITTLE TRIO -- Galax, Va. The award-winning Jeff Little Trio, renowned for its innovative blend of Appalachian tradition and contemporary flair, will perform at The Rex Theater, 113 East Grayson Street, Galax, Virginia 24333, on Saturday, Oct. 4, at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Led by virtuoso pianist and vocalist Jeff Little, the trio also features Steve Lewis on guitar, banjo, and vocals, and Luke Little on mandolin. The trio's high-energy shows and seamless fusion of traditional and modern sounds have captivated audiences from NPR to international stages. Jeff Little's piano playing is both masterful and deeply rooted in the musical traditions of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Steve Lewis adds a rich layer of complexity on guitar and banjo. Luke Little brings youthful energy and a modern twist on the mandolin. Tickets start at $22.50 on Eventbrite. For more information and tickets, visit https://www.rex.theater.

SPOOKY BOOK FAIR -- Saturday, Oct. 4. at the Book Cellar, 112 Court St., Abingdon, Va. @TheBookCellarVA.

OCT. 8

OCT. 13

OCT. 14

OCT. 15

OCT. 17

CONTRA DANCE -- Sparta, NC. On Friday, Oct. 17, the Alleghany Arts Council will hold its monthly Contra Dance at the Sparta United Methodist Church, 190 N. Main St, Sparta, NC 28675. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. with an easy-to-learn beginner lesson followed by the main dance at 7 p.m. Refreshments will be available. These dances will be held the third Friday of the month. Tickets are $10 in advance, $10 at the door, and youth 12 and under are free with an adult. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.alleghanyartscouncil.org/events/contra-dance/. Contra dance is a form of American folk dance. It is the older cousin to the square dance. No fancy footwork needed -- if you can walk, you can dance! All the dances are taught and called. No need to bring a partner to join our friendly dance community, and it is appropriate for all ages. Lively music will be provided by Old Time Cookin' and called by George Segebade. The band will serve up driving string band dance music rooted in the NC and VA Appalachian Mountains and its foothills. You'll hear and feel their passion in the music!

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Community Calendar for Aug. 21, 2025: Upcoming local events in the Bristol area

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