Explore, Create & Celebrate in Virginia’s Trail Town

A Day in Damascus invites visitors to explore Virginia’s Trail Town through dozens of free activities and special experiences offered throughout the community.

The day brings together local businesses, artists, outdoor experts, farmers, historians, musicians, and community organizations for a town-wide celebration of the landscapes, traditions, creativity, and people that make Damascus special.

Wander through Big Jake’s Garden with self-guided farm and flower field tours, stunning photo opportunities, and enjoy picking your own fresh bouquet straight from the field to purchase and take home.

For more information, email – bigjakesgarden@gmail.com

A detailed presentation with Bob Riggs on bird migration in the Appalachian Mountains.

For more information, call (323) 276-3046.

Experience Virginia’s first designated Blue Ridge Snorkel Trail right in Damascus Town Park! Borrow a snorkel set from the Damascus Trail Center (first come, first served) and explore the confluence of Laurel and Beaverdam Creek. See dozens of native fish species, including some rare ones, and discover the rich biodiversity of our local streams.

For more information, call (323) 276-3046.

Join Jacob Harris of Stone Fly Co for a 1.5-hour fly fishing casting clinic in Damascus where you’ll get hands-on instruction and tips from a local fishing enthusiast. This clinic is open to anglers of all ages and skill levels. Kids can take part in a friendly, fun casting challenge with the chance to win small prizes, while adults can practice and improve their casting technique.

For more information, call (276) 698-5395.

Meet with trail runners & professional coaches Alyx Barnett ND and Billy Barnett, from Born to Run, for a social all levels group hike & trail run followed by a short strength & injury prevention session with complimentary beverages after. Hosted by Damascus Fitness in partnership with Waters Wellness Collective.

For more information, email dralyxbarnett@gmail.com.

Join experienced bicycle mechanics for a 45-minute interactive parking lot clinic designed to help riders feel confident on the trail. The team will walk participants through essential bike care including safety checks, how to fix a flat tire, and basic gear indexing. Learn simple skills that help you handle trail-side emergencies and keep your bike running smoothly.

For more information, email advdam22@gmail.com.

A welcoming, all-levels yoga class led by Monica Lewis - perfect for stretching, breathing, and easing into your festival day.

For more information, email paulgadola@gmail.com.

Bring your bike for a free tune-up by David Wilson before hitting the trails. Event will be rain or shine at the Trail Center. In the event of bad weather, David will be set up in the DTC Stewardship Garage.

For more information, call (323) 276-3046.

Take a break with snacks and drinks while meeting an expert who can point you to outdoor adventures in and around Damascus. From hiking and biking to fishing, get tips and connections to guides and experiences - one of the best ways to discover the region’s beautiful landscapes.

For more information, email roger@thespeckledtrout.com.

Explore Fig Tree Flower Farm at your own pace with a fun, interactive, self-guided scavenger hunt! Discover the Damascus Dome, a one-of-a-kind wood carving, flower fields in bloom, a stargazing dome, a barn quilt trail, photo opportunities galore, the farm stand, and build your own bouquet from The Petal Pusher, a mobile flower cart. Complete the hunt to receive a small thank-you token, and enjoy popcorn and cold drinks along the way. This fun, interactive experience is a perfect introduction to the farm and all the workshops, events, and adventures coming soon.

For more information, email ftff.damascus@gmail.com.

Test your skills with a single-hole mini golf challenge! One chance to hit a hole-in-one and win a free round of mini golf. Fun for all ages, this quick, hands-on activity adds friendly competition to your festival day. Be sure to check out the high-tech golf simulator and experience how Trail Town Adventure Golf brings the outdoors indoors - rain or shine!

For more information, call (276) 475-7485.

Learn the Highlands’ best-kept wellness secrets and trail care solutions you won’t find on Amazon. Bring your questions and get expert advice from pharmacist Trey Waters, who knows the trails firsthand.

For more information, call (276) 475-5022.

Learn the basics of caring for your Class 1 and Class 2 electric bike in this 45-minute hands-on workshop. With more than 30 years of combined industry experience, the team will cover battery care and longevity, proper cleaning of sensors, and key brake and chain maintenance tips to keep your e-bike performing at its best on the trails.

For more information, email advdam22@gmail.com.

Dr. Tom Foltz of Trail Town Chiropractic will demonstrate the importance of proper alignment of gear and body for optimal performance in all outdoor activities. No matter if it’s hiking, biking, running, camping, fishing, or even bird watching, the gear you're carrying needs to work with your body to prevent injuries.

For more information, call (276) 525-2380.

Meet classroom animals from the local FFA and learn about animal care, agriculture, and farm life in the Virginia Highlands. This hands-on, family-friendly experience connects today’s learners with Appalachian traditions rooted in the land.

For more information, email kdavidson@wcs.k12.va.us.

Take a break and get creative at The Coffee Thief! Choose from a selection of illustrated pages featuring the highlights of Damascus and add your own colors and personal touches to create a unique Damascus stamp print. Relax, create, and connect with the artistry and community of this beloved coffee shop.

For more information, email thecoffeethief.va@gmail.com.

Visual Uprising Photo is offering free portraits to festival-goers that capture real connection and quiet joy. With a gentle, candid approach, these photos reflect you just as you are - natural, relaxed, and full of heart.

For more information, email alison@visualuprisingphoto.com.

Visit Keith & Melanie Holm, owners of 4 Stitches & Giggles Embroidery, for a closer look at the art of machine embroidery. Whether you’re brand new or simply curious, they’ll have a helpful handout with tips for getting started and will be on hand to share advice and insights from their own experience. Stop in, ask questions, and discover how creativity and craftsmanship come together - one stitch at a time.

For more information, email mnkholm@gmail.com.

Description: Beth Mann of Cherry Tree Hill Shop will showcase a charming selection of handcrafted items, including primitive-style mini pillows and vintage-inspired redwork embroidery pillows. Each piece showcases traditional techniques and timeless artistry, perfect for bringing a touch of handmade charm to your home.

For more information, email bethintv@yahoo.com.

A fun, hands-on painting session for kids led by Sharon Rowe, where creativity and color take center stage.

For more information, call Sharon Rowe (276) 608-5264.

Celebrate creativity with the Damascus Art Collective! Meet local artists and makers, explore unique handmade creations, and connect with the vibrant community that brings our town and the surrounding Appalachian region to life.

For more information, email jana.lankford@gmail.com.

Wood artist Gino Di Dio will demonstrate the tools and techniques he uses to transform raw wood logs into abstract sculptures. His work focuses on shape, movement, and material rather than literal representation, inviting each viewer to bring their own interpretation. Stop by at 2:45 and 5pm to watch the process, learn about abstract art, and see how raw wood becomes expressive form. Throughout the day Gino will be offering original pieces for sale and on hand to answer questions.

For more information, email ginodidioart@yahoo.com.

An adult sip-n-paint session with Sharon Rowe, paired with drink specials for a relaxed, creative afternoon.

For more information, call Sharon Rowe (276) 608-5264.

Take part in the Damascus tradition of rock painting. Decorate a rock & then hide it in town as a surprise for others. This activity is free and open to the public. Come browse our book and movie collection, enjoy our Damascus-focused display, visit our story walk, or just stop by for a coffee and a chat. There is something at the library for everyone. Come see why the Damascus branch library has been called "the friendliest library on the trail.

For more information, call (276) 475-3820.

Pause for a moment and share what makes this town feel like home. Visitors and locals alike are invited to write a short memory or reflection about their favorite places and moments in Damascus. Read stories from others displayed throughout the space and add your own voice to the collection. Participants can also pick up a reusable shopping bag to carry their festival finds while celebrating the memories, stories, and community spirit that make Damascus so special.

For more information, email holstonrealty@gmail.com.

Join local geology enthusiasts, Steve Ahn and Aaron Napier for an engaging 2-hour bus tour exploring the rocks, landforms, and geologic stories that shape Southwest Virginia. With a deep passion for all things rocks, Steve and Aaron bring the region’s ancient history to life through accessible, fascinating talks that connect our landscape to the forces that formed it.

Limited spots, to secure your tickets, e-mail devynnenapier@gmail.com.

Step inside restored cabooses now reimagined as a unique lodging experience and explore the history of how rail travel shaped Damascus and the Virginia Creeper Trail, that runs right in front of this unique property.

For more information, call (512) 971-4961.

A guided walking tour through key industrial sites that played a vital role in Damascus’ development during the early 1900s.

For more information, email Erinn Linkous embracingeverything@gmail.com.

Meet the Virginia Creeper Trail Conservancy and dive into the history of one of the most beloved biking and hiking trails in the United States. Discover how the trail transformed from a historic rail line into a world-class recreation destination, hear stories from the community that helped preserve it, and learn why adventurers from across the country keep coming back to experience its scenic beauty.

For more information, email info@vacreepertrail.org.

Embark on a trolley tour with Experience Appalachia! Hear local storytellers bring tall tales, folklore, and history to life - from Cherokee roots to pioneer legends and ghostly mountain mysteries. Wind through scenic trails and landmarks on this family-friendly ride, combining education, entertainment, and the charm of trolley travel.

For tickets and times, e-mail info@appalachia.love.

Enjoy an evening of live music featuring Spectator Bird and Caleb Stine, followed by an afterparty at Green Cove Collective, in a space designed for up-close performances where artists feel welcomed and the community can gather around the music they love.

For more information, email info@cardinalmusichall.com.

Discover Wyndale Gardens state-of-the-art aquaponics system through a live herb tower display, where fresh, nutrient-rich herbs grow in harmony with fish in a closed-loop ecosystem. Learn how this farm-to-table approach redefines local food production, reducing water use by up to 90% while delivering hyper-fresh flavors straight from our greenhouses. Enjoy herb-infused dishes and see why our locally-grown produce is a staple in Appalachian communities.

For more information, e-mail info@wyndalegardens.com.

Join Bad Bagel’s Pet Emporium for a 15-minute farm-fresh peek at how we turn locally sourced meats into our house-made jerky, air dried chicken heads, and chicken feet. We’ll share the natural benefits of whole-animal treats—from joint-supporting glucosamine to cleaner teeth and happier, more satisfied chewers. Our small-batch, single-ingredient process delivers real nutrition with nothing artificial. This pet-friendly session lets you see, smell, and learn while your furry friends enjoy free samples. Discover how simple, responsibly raised ingredients make all the difference. Come experience true farm-to-treat goodness your pets will love.

For more information, email badbagelspetemporium@gmail.com.

Take a tasty tour of Damascus at your own pace with Bites & Brews! Festival-goers can stop at participating restaurants between 12 to 8pm for a small-portion tasting at a smaller price, making it easy to sample everything the town has to offer.

Participating places include:

Cottage Cafe – 30460 Blossom Rd, Damascus
Damascus Brewery – 32173 Government Rd, Damascus
The Damascus Old Mill Inn – 215 W. Imboden St, Damascus
Appalachian Heritage Distillery & Brewery – 110 W. Laurel Ave, Damascus
Damascus Diner – 109 S. Shady Ave, Damascus
The Coffee Thief – 124 E. Laurel Ave, Damascus
Dairy King – 511 Three Sticks Ln, Damascus
Wilson’s Café and Grill – 331 Douglas Dr Ste. B, Damascus
The Tipsy Bear – 338 Douglas Dr, Damascus
Wicked Chicken Winghouse & Tavern – 409 Fritz St, Damascus

Megan Boissiere, herbalist & farmer at Deep Roots Ecostead will provide a short, hands-on session that reflects the Appalachian value of self-sustainability and connection to the land. The 15-minute session will cover growing, processing, medicinal benefits, and ways to connect with the medicine of Turmeric. Sessions will be offered at 1 and 3pm, and Megan will be available throughout the day to answer questions and offer her products for purchase.

For more information, email deeprootseco@gmail.com.

Explore the Damascus Farmers Market and discover the best of our local harvest! Browse fresh produce, homemade goods, baked treats, and handcrafted items from farmers and makers across the Appalachian region.

For more information, email farmersmarket@damascus.org.