Behind Blue Ridge Country

CURRENT Behind Blue Ridge Country

A black staining polypore growing in Botetourt County, VA.

August’s Wild Edible: Black-Staining Polypore

The black-staining polypore is certainly one of the more fascinating wild edible mushrooms.
Northern Dewberry growing in Botetourt County, Virginia.

July’s Wild Edible: Northern Dewberry

For several reasons, the northern dewberry is often overlooked as a summer berry in the Blue Ridge.
0fb02316-6e33-11f0-9031-1248ae80e59d-Wardensville-aerial

Hardy County’s Fall Festivals: Where Heritage Comes Home

There’s no better time to visit Hardy County, West Virginia, than fall—when the leaves blaze with color, the mountain air turns crisp, and small towns open their doors in celebration.
b9d47722-c9fd-11f0-aa00-1248ae80e59d-6-_1_

Holiday Magic Shines Across Lexington and Rockbridge County, VA

From the cobblestone streets of Lexington to the riverside trails of Buena Vista and the majestic wonders of Natural Bridge, this part of the Shenandoah Valley comes alive with the sights, sounds, and tastes of the holiday season.
b278bbc8-5202-11f0-9ff6-1248ae80e59d-10-2025butter-and-eggs--credit-Joe-Cook

October’s Mountain Wildflower: Butter-and-Eggs

Originally a native of Asia, butter-and-eggs (Linaria vulgaris) was introduced into the United States by way of Europe and can now be found in temperate zones throughout the world.

Departments

Knoxville Asian Festival, August 29-30,  Knoxville, Tennessee. Photo courtesy of Asian Culture Center of TN
Events

Fall 2026 Festivals & Events Guide

From the Virginias and the Carolinas to Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky, our annual compendium is the perfect travel companion. Inside,

4th of July Parade & Festival, July 4, Blowing Rock, North Carolina.
Events

Summer 2026 Festivals & Events Guide

From the Virginias and the Carolinas to Georgia, Tennessee, and Kentucky, our annual compendium is the perfect travel companion. Inside,

CALENDAR OF EVENTS