6 Under-The-Radar Music Fests In Virginia To Hit Up This Summer

Virginia is for music lovers.

1. Red Wing Roots Music Festival - July 13-15

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This super-scenic music festival has a setting you won't believe — it's held in Natural Chimneys Park & Campground in the Shenandoah Valley. There’s more than just music you’ll love at this festival; it takes advantage of its "venue" with organized biking rides, hikes, runs, and even yoga.

2. The Richmond Folk Festival - October 12-14

Instagram: @garritos

Over 200,000 people come to downtown Richmond's riverfront every year to participate in this FREE event. That's right, 100% $0 to get in on the most diverse festival in Virginia. This is probably the only place you can hear live Hindustani classical music while double-fisting a banh mi and a plate of jerk chicken.

3. Patriotic Festival - June 1-3

Instagram: @thefullsound

Patriotic Festival honors and celebrates the armed forces right on the Virginia Beach Oceanfront with three full days of country artists and military expos and displays. A must-see: the impressive military vehicle display right on the beach at 17th Street.

4. LOCKN' - August 23-26

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LOCKN' is named for its double stages that feature performances running seamlessly between the two. This way, every festival goer has the same unique experience: four days of jam bands set to the primo backdrop of the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

5. Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion - September 21-23

Instagram: @znlupetin / Instagram: @dustbowlrevival

Bristol was officially designated by the US Congress as the birthplace of country music, so it would only be fitting that this festival would be all about roots and Americana. Rhythm & Roots Reunion hosts over 130 bands across 20 stages in downtown Bristol.

6. FloydFest - July 25-29

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For variety, FloydFest is your best bet. It's got a good mix of pop-rock, bluegrass, and Afrobeat; big and small acts (Foster the People are headlining this year); and a great juxtaposition of glamping and outdoor adventures, including disc golf and paddling in Little River. This year's theme is "Wild," so prepare your body.

Got some new summer inspo? Get your tickets now, and head down to Virginia. Share with your music fest buddy!