Galax’s musical identity is shaped by the Old Fiddler’s Convention, which returns annually before the second weekend in August. Meanwhile, the Rex Theater, first opened in 1940, brings music history to a live stage with local, regional, and national acts. Between planned urban development, a trail through the city, and the road route to the Blue Ridge Parkway, Galax offers a range of experiences for culture and landscape enthusiasts.
Musical Tradition on Different Stages
Since 1935, Felts Park has been the venue for the Old Fiddler’s Convention. Exceptions include weather-related relocations indoors, the event’s cancellation during World War II, and its cancellation in 2020. If you’re planning your trip around the convention, check the exact dates for the relevant year.
The Rex Theater also hosts Blue Ridge Backroads Live, a weekly radio show featuring old-time and bluegrass bands. The show adds its own musical focus to the theater’s live music offerings. The program and performances may change; if a particular date is key to your trip, check in advance.
Music is also passed on to the next generation: at the Chestnut Creek School of the Arts’ Junior Appalachian Music Program, students aged 9 to 13 learn local old-time music. Classes take place twice a week during two school-year terms. Participants can borrow a guitar, fiddle, mandolin, or banjo. Enrollment requirements may change; if you’re interested in participating, check the current options.
A Look at Galax’s History
The Galax Commercial Historic District reflects Galax’s development as a planned manufacturing and trading town in the first decades of the 20th century. Its grid layout of rectangular blocks makes the planning approach tangible. The history of commerce and urban development adds another perspective on the city alongside its musical identity.
Trail and Road Route: Two Ways to Explore the Surroundings
The New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park along a converted railroad corridor and passes through Galax. For 39 miles, it runs parallel to the scenic and historic New River. The 57 miles refer to the trail’s total length; the 39 miles refer to the stretch that runs alongside the river. The Galax trailhead is next to Route 58.
The Galax Scenic Loop offers a different perspective. It heads south on Route 89 and meets the Blue Ridge Parkway a few miles south of the Blue Ridge Music Center. Along the parkway, the landscape features include far-reaching viewpoints and winding stretches along mountain ridges. If you’re planning to drive the route, check conditions on the parkway in advance.
West of Galax, in Grayson County, lies Matthews State Forest. The 566-acre forest includes mixed stands of hardwoods and eastern white pines. Its management takes recreation, wildlife, timber production, and water quality into account. The local recreational offerings also include the Galax Municipal Golf Course, which covers 65 acres.
Local Products and Practical Information
The Galax Farmers Market features locally grown fruits and vegetables, handmade goods, and regional specialties. Vendors also offer ripe fruits and vegetables, homemade jams, and artisan baked goods. Offerings vary by season. Activities for children are also available during the season; the program may change.
The Visitors Center offers local information and maps to help you explore the area. This provides guidance on the different things that make Galax distinctive—from music and city history to the trail and road route.
Discover more destinations: Galax, Essex County, Augusta County, Middlesex County, Northampton County, Hopewell, Scott County, Giles County.
For the broader travel overview: Virginia.
