The Arts & More

The Alleghany Highlands has developed a reputation as a vibrant arts community. Artisans and visual artists are inspired by the beautiful surroundings. Their work can be seen in shops and galleries around the county. Performing arts is also thriving here, with musical and theatrical performances at various venues, including the beautifully renovated Historic Masonic Theatre.

Alleghany Highlands Arts & Crafts Center*: 439 E. Ridgeway St., Clifton Forge · From the east, Exit 27, I-64; from the west, Exit 24, I-64 540-862-4447 · highlandsartsandcraft.org · The gallery’s changing exhibits feature works produced by Highlands artists, as well as artists from other areas. The shop sells juried handmade items, such as: pottery, wooden ware, jewelry, stained glass, needlework, quilts & other fiber & graphic arts. Hours: January-April: Tues.-Sat., 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; MayDecember: Mon.-Sat., 10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Admission: Free

Alleghany Highlands Arts Council*: 111 N. Lexington Avenue, Covington 540-962-2787 · arts4allalleghanyhighlands.com · For many years, the Arts Council has brought inspiring, live professional performing arts events to the area. The annual series includes regional and local performances, as well as a children’s series. The Performing Arts Series has been recognized as one of the most highly successful entertainment & cultural series in the state.

Appalfolks of America Association*: 1047 Ingalls St., Clifton Forge Appalfolks has created a rich legacy by forming The Virginia Opry, which debuted in Clifton Forge on October 16, 1992, at The Historic Masonic Theatre that was operating as The Historic Stonewall Theatre at the time. On July 1, 2020, The Virginia Opry was designated as the Commonwealth of Virginia’s official Opry. Appalfolks owned and operated the theatre for 12 years before donating it to the Town of Clifton Forge in 2003. STARS (Special Theatrical Artists Revue and Showcase), a troupe of performers who have intellectual challenges and/or physical disabilities, debuted in 1996 in the theatre and continues to serve the community along with The Virginia Opry. Clifton Forge School of the Arts*: 518 Church St., Clifton Forge 540-862-7275 · cfsota.org · The community art school of the Alleghany Highlands offers a broad range of fine and applied arts to children and adults. Offering hundreds of classes and workshops annually for all ages and interests. The school also offers a historic mill that is home to the annual German Christmas Fair – Kriskindlmarkt and the MayFaire – a celebration of Spring & the Arts.

Cora Dance Alleghany*: 510 Main St., Clifton Forge · 540-862-5655 coradance.org · Cora Dance creates transformative dance experiences while addressing barriers that restrict individuals from accessing the art form. Cora programs foster diverse people finding common ground, allowing all involved – artists, students, audiences and community members – to authentically connect through art.

Garth Newel Music Center*: 403 Garth Newel Lane, Hot Springs 540-839-5018 · garthnewel.org · High-quality musical performances, educational programs and personal interaction among musicians and guests.

Historic Masonic Theatre & Amphitheatre*: 510 Main Street (Theatre), 513 Church Street (Ampitheatre), Clifton Forge · 540-862-5655 historicmasonictheatre.com · Constructed in 1905, the operated as an opera house and Masonic Lodge and has undergone renovations to restore it to its former glory. It features live music and theatrical performances and is home to the Virginia Opry and the Southern Gospel Review. Amphitheatre offers outdoor performances including concerts, shows, auctions, flea markets and outdoor movies; also has a community park. Admission: Varies by performance

Surround your next special event with breathtaking mountain views. Weddings, reunions and other events are always welcome in the Alleghany Highlands.

Blue Ridge Vineyard: 1027 Shiloh Drive, Eagle Rock, VA 24085 540-798-7645 · blueridgevineyard.com · Come to the country, linger in the barn, watch for wildlife in the spacious pasture, marvel at the beautiful mountains of the Blue Ridge, and enjoy the fruits of the vineyard. You can traipse through the vineyard, follow the nature paths, picnic anywhere, and look for Logan (the bear).

Chimney Springs View*: 514 Mount Pleasant Dr., Covington 203-912-1976 · Outdoor photography venue

The Farm at Glen Haven*: 4301 Longdale Furnace Rd., Clifton Forge 434-962-5822 · thefarmatglenhaven.com · Steeped in over 185 years of Alleghany County history, a unique event venue located along the Cowpasture River. From weddings, to live music, our guests revel in the natural beauty of our stunning mountain views, pristine river and acres of wildflowers.

Fyvie Farms*: 111 East Country Club Lane, Covington · 540-205-9254 Nestled in the Alleghany Highlands, a few minutes off of I-64, 150 scenic acres await you. Enjoy the amenities the 80-year-old local landmark has to offer, including walk paths, wide open outside celebration spaces, intimate gardens and an indoor space that will seat 75-100.

Jack Mason’s Tavern & Brewery*: 402 E. Ridgeway St., Clifton Forge 540-862-5624 · jackmasonsbrewing.com

Merry Go Round Farm*: 3730 Llama Drive, Covington · 804-339-3434 Voted Best Wedding Venue in Virginia Living Magazine. It would be hard to find a more scenic spot, with its 18th-century log cabin, a converted barn, gardens, mountain views and even peacocks roaming the landscape.

WestWinds Venue*: 4905 Indian Draft Road, Covington, VA 24426 540-969-9175 · Established in 2019, the WestWinds Venue is hoping to make dreams come true with breathtaking mountain views and locations for family and friends to get together.