Lexington might be best known for its historic architecture and prestigious educational institutions, but this charming city of roughly 7,000 residents boasts a surprisingly diverse and active music scene. From intimate coffee house performances to outdoor festivals celebrating bluegrass and folk traditions, Lexington offers music lovers plenty of opportunities to experience live performances throughout the year.
Historic Venues with Modern Sound
The heart of Lexington’s music scene can be found just west of its historic downtown district. Lime Kiln Theater, a converted lime quarry, stands as one of the area’s most unique performance spaces. This open-air amphitheater hosts a summer concert series that brings in regional and national acts, particularly those specializing in Americana, folk, and bluegrass. The natural limestone walls create remarkable acoustics, while string lights draped overhead create an enchanting atmosphere on warm Virginia evenings. The intimate main stage holds only 675 guests with a combination of bench and lawn seating. The 2025 season will be announced in March.
Campus Culture
Washington and Lee University and Virginia Military Institute both contribute significantly to Lexington’s musical landscape. The Lenfest Center for the Arts at Washington and Lee hosts more than 175 performances and events each year ranging from classical choir concerts to student jazz ensembles and visiting artists. The 300-seat Wilson Concert Hall, with its exceptional acoustics and intimate setting, provides an ideal space for chamber music and solo performances.
Many cadets at the Virginia Military Institute participate in the Regimental Band, the Commanders Jazz Band, the Institute Brass Ensemble, the Herald Trumpets and Drummers, and the Cadet Buglers. These groups perform at many local functions. VMI recently hired Lt. Col. Matthew Halligan to serve as the new director of music.
Seasonal Events
Davidson Park is the heart of the summer music scene for Friday’s Alive. This free concert series runs through the warmer months, bringing an eclectic mix of local and regional performers to downtown Lexington. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere encourages attendees to bring picnics and lawn chairs while enjoying everything from blues and rock to country and folk music against the backdrop of historic downtown.
Music in the Garden at Boxerwood Nature Center offers one of the area’s most unique concert experiences. Set within the beautiful grounds of this local nature center and arboretum, this intimate outdoor music series combines live performances with the natural beauty of the gardens. Musicians perform in this serene setting as audiences relax among the flowers, trees, and peaceful landscape. The series is held on select Fridays from May until December and typically features acoustic performances, chamber music, and small ensembles that complement the tranquil environment, creating a perfect harmony between nature and music.
Cavernous Concerts
The Grand Caverns host a Subterranean Concert series. The acoustics of the caverns themselves add a distinctive sensation to the performances. The only underground concert series on the east coast of the oin the east coast of the United States is limited to 75 tickets per performance. The Grand Caverns were designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1973. Tours of the caves have been offered since 1806. Attending an intimate performance there is one of the most exclusive live music options in the area.
Supporting Local Artists
The city’s commitment to supporting local musicians is evident in its various open mic nights and musician showcases. Devils Backbone Outpost Tap Room & Kitchen features up-and-coming local talent every Friday and Saturday night, providing crucial performance opportunities for emerging artists. Brew Ridge Taps also hosts live music on a regular basis. Come for the music, stay for the beer.
Regional Festival Highlights
Just a few miles from Lexington, the Nothin’ Fancy Bluegrass Festival in Buena Vista has become one of the region’s premier bluegrass events. Held at Glen Maury Park, this multi-day festival draws bluegrass enthusiasts from across the country. The festival, named after the host band Nothin’ Fancy, features both established and emerging bluegrass talents performing against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Festival-goers can enjoy camping, food vendors, and impromptu jam sessions that spring up throughout the grounds, creating an immersive bluegrass experience that highlights the rich musical heritage of the Shenandoah Valley region. The family-friendly atmosphere and mix of traditional and contemporary bluegrass makes it a must-visit event for both casual listeners and dedicated bluegrass fans. The 2025 event will be held September 18-20.
Another highlight of Glen Maury Park’s musical calendar is the Bank of Botetourt Beach Music Festival, bringing the sounds of beach music to the mountains each summer. This beloved event transforms the park into a celebration of shag dancing and the distinctive beach music sound that has become synonymous with summer fun in the Southeast. Festival attendees spread out their lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy a Friday concert and a Saturday full of music, dancing, and community spirit. The 2025 event will be held July 25-26.
The Maury River Fiddler’s Convention, a cherished traditional music gathering since 1994, celebrates the region’s deep roots in old-time and bluegrass music. This annual event brings together musicians of all ages to compete in various categories including fiddle, banjo, guitar, and band competitions. Beyond the formal competitions, the convention creates an atmosphere where musical knowledge is shared across generations, with informal jam sessions and workshops helping to preserve and perpetuate the traditional music of the Appalachian region. The event serves as a vital link in maintaining the area’s rich musical heritage while fostering new talent in traditional mountain music. The 2025 dates have not been announced.
While not specifically a musically-focused festival, the Rockbridge Community Festival, held annually in late summer, includes multiple stages featuring local and regional talent. This family-friendly event showcases everything from traditional mountain music to contemporary rock bands, reflecting the diverse musical tastes of the community.
Looking to the Future
While Lexington maintains its small-town charm, its music scene continues to evolve and grow. Recent years have seen an increase in collaboration between venue owners, local businesses, and educational institutions to bring more diverse musical offerings to the community.
For visitors and residents alike, Lexington offers a surprisingly rich tapestry of musical experiences. From the historic walls of the Lime Kiln Theater to casual coffee house performances, the city proves that big sound can come from small places. Whether you’re a fan of traditional mountain music, classical compositions, or contemporary rock, Lexington’s venues and events provide numerous opportunities to experience live music in unique and memorable settings.
The best way to experience Lexington’s music scene is to simply dive in. Check local event calendars, follow venue social media pages, and don’t be afraid to try something new. In a town where history and harmony blend so seamlessly, every performance becomes part of the ongoing story of this remarkable Virginia community.