Harrisonburg is a vibrant city known for its rich community spirit! This community spirit is carried out with its love of lively annual events! As the year unfolds, Harrisonburg becomes a hub of excitement, with a calendar packed full of cherished traditions and eagerly anticipated celebrations. From food festivals that showcase the city’s local restaurants to spirited block parties that bring the streets to life, Harrisonburg’s annual events offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a local seeking to immerse yourself in the community or a visitor looking for an unforgettable experience, join us as we delve into the colorful tapestry of Harrisonburg’s most beloved yearly gatherings. Get ready to mark your calendars and embark on a journey through the vibrant pulse of this enchanting city!
Taste of Downtown
Harrisonburg foodies know that the best ticket in town is the Taste of Downtown, Harrisonburg’s Restaurant Month! Celebrate the Downtown Harrisonburg Culinary District with culinary activities and events, an official dining guide, and more. For one solid month, Harrisonburg has a chance to connect with local chefs, explore Harrisonburg cuisine, and enjoy all things food and drink downtown.
Rocktown Beer & Music Festival
Each year, 3,000 people congregate at the Turner Pavilion & Park to enjoy good beer, good music, and the great community of Harrisonburg. The Rocktown Fest is a Spring event that occurs each April and features the quality and diversity of America’s craft beer culture and some of the best performances from local and national touring bands. More than 60 beers and hard ciders are available for sampling, guaranteeing something for every beer enthusiast!
Best. Weekend. Ever.
Best Weekend Ever is an event that spreads across the entirety of Downtown Harrisonburg to create a downtown-wide block party with music, entertainment, and activities for all ages around every corner! There will be live music, magicians, community art projects, arts and crafts activities, walking tours, food specials at restaurants, food trucks, sidewalk sales, touch-a-truck, Sip & Stroll, and more!
Block Party in the ‘Burg
Newcomers to the Friendly City won’t want to miss the Block Party in the ‘Burg! The party is ostensibly a welcome to incoming JMU students who want to get to know Harrisonburg better. Explore Historic Downtown and enjoy activities that will allow you to “Leave Your Mark” on the city, and make your own Tie-Dye t-shirt to celebrate the ‘Burg! Learn about more than 30 local businesses and enjoy giveaways and yummy free samples as you become more familiar with Downtown Harrisonburg.
Harrisonburg International Festival
Harrisonburg’s favorite festival features international food trucks and artisan booths, a Global Village, and a list of downtown businesses that offer international food, entertainment, and activities. You can wander on your own through the exhibits or try the self-guided tour of the festival. The festival proudly boasts the motto of “Educate, Entertain, and Eat!”, and you will not be disappointed!
Valley Fest
Take a short trip to Massanutten in August and enjoy the view in style at this amazing music festival! Enjoy yummy food and delicious craft beer while grooving to great live music on the mountain. Proceeds benefit community initiatives supported by the local Rotary Clubs of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, allowing you to give back to your community while you “get down” to the music.
Sing Me High Music Festival
Celebrate music and faith at this very popular two-day festival. Sing Me High is family-friendly, alcohol-free, and full of joy! The festival features local musicians, a songwriting competition, activities for children, delicious food, and even a pie auction! Celebrate the end of the summer season with your family and friends at this very special festival of praise and song.
Rockingham County Fair
Join the county and celebrate our local farmers at the Rockingham County Fair! The Shenandoah Valley is home to some of the best agricultural products in the country, making the fair the perfect place to truly enjoy the “taste of Virginia”. Enjoy traditional livestock judging and fair events as well as great live music and amusement rides. Join your community in celebrating this special tradition.
Massanutten Fall Festival
Have a great time with your family and support the local Fire & Rescue Squads at the Massanutten Fall Festival! Shop from vendors offering original art, handcrafted jewelry, sand art, candles, and so much more, or sample tasty local food, beer, and wine. The chairlift ride to the top of Massanutten allows you to enjoy the amazing view of the Shenandoah Valley from the top of the peak. Delightful fall activities for the entire family!
Downtown Skeleton Festival
Celebrate the “Spooky Season” with trick-or-treating, costume contests, pumpkin carving, and lots of other fun activities! Past events have included kid, dog, and adult costume contests, a weird science lab, tarot card readings, wacky shacks, face painting, photo booths, and much, much more. A guaranteed good time for the whole family – find out what’s happening this year!
Winter Wonderfest
The holiday season is a great time to be downtown! Join the Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance for Winter Wonderfest! Sip & Stroll and shop while enjoying family-friendly activities, vote for your favorite gingerbread house, tour downtown in a horse-drawn carriage, visit Santa & Mrs. Claus, and much more. Finish the day with the City of Harrisonburg’s annual Holiday Parade and tree lighting. This is a can’t-miss part of Harrisonburg during the Holidays!
Harrisonburg offers a wide array of traditions and community events – these are just a small sample of all the wonderful annual events you can enjoy in our city! To stay up to date with even more events in our community, check in regularly with our Events in Harrisonburg! We regularly post happenings we think our residents would love. Find the perfect event for you and your family.