Welcome to the second edition of my Field Notes column, focusing on the news tidbits and items of interest from far Southwest Virginia that crossed my desk this week. And welcome back to those who helped make the first edition of this column one of Cardinal News’ most-read stories over the long Memorial Day weekend.
This is the place for local news that doesn’t make it into a full story, presented in briefs that are easy to read and digest. This column is where you can find some of the latest happenings in the area’s cities, towns and counties.
What’s going on in your hometown? Let me know at susan@cardinalnews.org and don’t forget to include a photo.
Bristol’s Rhythm & Roots Reunion marks a quarter-century this year
It’s hard to believe, but this year’s Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion will mark its 25th anniversary, and organizers announced on Wednesday that they are pulling out all the stops.
The reunion is a three-day festival featuring live country, bluegrass, folk, rock, roots and just about every other genre of music you can think of from across the country. If the music on one stage or spot in downtown Bristol doesn’t suit you, take a few steps and you can listen to another band or entertainer. It’s a music lover’s paradise and it takes place on State Street in Bristol’s vibrant downtown.
R&R is a division of the Birthplace of Country Music, which also announced the lineup that will round out this year’s festival. It includes Sierra Ferrell, Old Crow Medicine Show, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Los Lobos and more regional favorites. This year’s festival takes place Sept. 11-13.
“Since the very beginning 25 years ago, the robust music communities of Bristol and the surrounding Appalachian region are the lifeblood of Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion,” festival Director Richard Oakley said in a news release. “From well-known hometown heroes to regional up-and-comers that are ready to take off, we take great pride in showcasing a diverse cross-section of the best and brightest artists that our mountains have to offer.”
The reunion pays tribute to the historic 1927 Bristol Sessions, which led to the Twin City’s designation as the birthplace of country music. The 2026 festival will serve as the kickoff for the 100th anniversary of the Sessions.
Three-day general admission and single day tickets are on sale now online or in person at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum.
Regional development effort launched by Friends of Southwest Virginia
Also on Wednesday, Friends of Southwest Virginia launched a regional development initiative designed to strengthen the region’s economy by leveraging its tourism, outdoor recreation, arts, culture and heritage assets.
The effort, Destination Southwest Virginia, will serve 19 counties and four cities and establish a shared vision and strategic roadmap for the region’s future growth, according to a news release. It is funded by the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission.
Friends of Southwest Virginia is partnering with Destination by Design, a destination planning and community development firm, and Headwaters Economics to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the region’s assets, visitor economy, market opportunities and economic impact. The project will identify strategies to strengthen communities, support local businesses, enhance visitor experiences, attract investment and increase economic opportunity throughout the region.
As part of the planning process, residents, business owners, community leaders, tourism partners and others are being asked to participate in a regional survey that will help shape priorities and recommendations for the 10-year plan.
You can take the survey here.
‘Ride for a Cure’ will be hosted by Washington County Sheriff’s Office
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office invites motorcycle riders, Jeep drivers and all road warriors to join them for the St. Jude Benefit Ride for a Cure on June 6.
This scenic, approximately 3.5-hour ride will guide participants through the scenic landscapes, mountain curves, picturesque towns and memorable stops of Virginia, Tennessee and North Carolina.
The journey will start at the sheriff’s office in Abingdon and end at the Damascus Volunteer Rescue Squad, 32094 Government Road, where there will be a post-ride meal of barbecue, hot dogs and the trimmings plus dessert for $12.
Items will also be auctioned off during the dinner gathering. All proceeds will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and its mission to advance cures and the means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases.
The ride is open to all street-legal vehicles. In case of rain, the event will be held June 13.
