It is hard for me to believe that it is almost time for the Wayne C Henderson Festival and Guitar Competition at Grayson Highlands State Park on June 15, 2019, and this year marks the 24th anniversary of the festival. 

This fun event started as an appreciation to living music legend Wayne C Henderson and quickly grew into a local favorite.

Ranger Parker Redfox and Wayne C Henderson

It honors the renowned musician and luthier, but a portion of the proceeds are used for a scholarship to help young musicians with continuing education in the field of music. Music is a huge part of the culture of the area and this ensures that the traditions are carried forward.

This year’s event schedule includes Darin and Brooke Aldridge, Redd Volkeart and Bill Kirchen, Shadow Grass, The Harris Brothers, The Sea Cruisers and of course Wayne C Henderson himself. For schedule times, click here. 

he last act of the day, Wayne C Henderson and Friends, are scheduled to take the stage at 5:45 p.m. Concessions will also be available throughout the day. You can find answers to more frequently asked questions online.

Bring a chair and enjoy this fantastic festival on June 15

Grayson Highlands State Park is located in Mouth of Wilson, Virginia. Drive Time: Northern Va., 6.5 hours; Richmond, 5.5 hours; Virginia Beach, 7.5 hours; Roanoke, 2.5 hours; Winston-Salem, 1.5 hours; Charlotte, 1.5 hours; Raleigh, 4 hours. Click here for Google map directions.

Because of the high elevation the weather can be cooler than you might expect in June. This event is rain or shine so you may want to bring a long sleeve shirt, sweatshirt or jacket.

The festival is from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is held at the park's picnic area. Festival tickets are $20 for everyone 13 years old and older. Children under 12 are free with paid adult admission to the festival. The regular parking fee does apply to all vehicles entering the park. The festival is also part of the Mountains of Music Homecoming series sponsored by The Crooked Road. 

If you love bluegrass and old-time music, then you won't want to miss this fantastic festival in the mountains of Virginia.