Blue Highway Fest brings four days of bluegrass to Big Stone Gap

Big Stone Gap’s October music calendar is about to fill with bluegrass. Blue Highway Fest runs October 8–11, bringing established performers and emerging musicians to the Southwest Virginia town.

The organizer’s announced roster includes Blue Highway, Rhonda Vincent, The Seldom Scene, Dailey & Vincent, Balsam Range and other acts. The festival has also announced The Rice Sisters and Appalachian Skyline as its 2026 Rising Stars Challenge winners.

Start with the correct stage

There is an important location detail for anyone attending opening day: all Thursday performances are scheduled for the 3rd Street Stage downtown, beside the Big Stone Gap Visitor’s Center.

Use the organizer’s daily lineup when choosing a ticket and planning your arrival; a festival roster alone does not tell you which performers share a particular day. The festival website links the current schedule, tickets, lodging and camping information.

For listeners building an autumn itinerary around live music, those details turn a promising lineup into a workable trip. More Virginia performances: Music, Arts & Entertainment.