A Cultural Crossroads
Day One
Take a walking tour of Downtown Harrisonburg, one of Virginia’s first designated Arts & Cultural Districts and home to a thriving arts community that represents a variety of different backgrounds. The galleries glorify the dedicated work of local artists and artisans, the theatres proudly boast exciting lineups of performing art entertainment, and museums capture enriching history and culture.
Begin your day on the Artisan Trail browsing the work of a diverse group of artists by gallery-hopping through the city. Stop to see the rock glass sculptures at Creative Etchings or bustle through Larkin Arts’ marketplace then soak in the work of local artists at Oasis Fine Art & Craft’s exhibits, and participate in an art workshop at the Spitzer Art Center.
Working up an appetite? Stay downtown and dine at Clementine Cafe, which not only provides diners with unique menu choices and vegetarian options made with local ingredients, but also an environment inspired and influenced by the arts. You’ll be surrounded with vibrant artwork as you dine and may even catch a live musical performance from emerging artists that frequently play on the restaurant’s stage.
Before the sun sets walk to the grassy lot beside the downtown Turner Pavilion to see Harrisonburg’s LOVEworks public artwork structure. Each of the four “LOVE” letters represents an important part of the Harrisonburg community: diversity, agriculture, outdoor adventure/recreation, and the arts. Make sure to snap a picture and share your “LOVE” for Harrisonburg on social media.
Day Two
As a location rich in history and culture, Harrisonburg is home to several museums, each filled with its own unique stories. So, continue your exploration of the arts right where you left off in Downtown Harrisonburg by stopping through a few favorites, like the historic Virginia Quilt Museum, the exhibits-only Valley Turnpike Museum, or for the children only Art Smart Studio at Explore More Discovery Museum.
Complete your exploration of the arts at either the intimate Court Square Theater or grandiose Forbes Center for the Performing Arts, where tickets will grant you a night of the best entertainment in town. With a continual cycle of independent and foreign films, live music and concerts, theatrical performances, dance presentations, comedy skits, and much more, either venue will be sure to provide you with a performance that caters to your tastes and interests.