Franklin County Hosts Mountain Spirits Festival on Oct. 5 in Downtown Rocky Mount
Franklin County, VA (PRWEB) August 30, 2013 -- Authors and artists from throughout the Blue Ridge Mountains region will present their creative works at the annual Mountain Spirits Festival, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Oct. 5 in downtown Rocky Mount.
More than three dozen local and regional authors and artists will display and sell their books, paintings and other artistry in celebration of the area’s Appalachian culture and heritage.
“The Mountain Spirits Festival is not only for avid readers and arts enthusiasts, but also for those interested in local history, heritage and folklore,” said Tarah Holland, tourism development manager. “The event is a great way to learn more about the rich culture and storied traditions found in our diverse communities.”
Under the authors’ tent, patrons will find a variety of genres, including memoir, historical, fiction, children’s literature and more. Featured writers include such locals as Morris Stephenson, presenting moonshine memories with his book, “A Night of Makin’ Likker,” and Tom Howell, presenting his mother’s memoir, “Life With Charlie,” which chronicles Lillian Hannabass Howell’s memories of growing up in Moneta before the creation of Smith Mountain Lake.
In addition, Franklin County native James A. Nagy will showcase his popular book, “Images of America: Franklin County.” The book highlights county history along with more than 200 vintage images. It also contains a foreword written by former Rocky Mount Mayor Mark Newbill.
Among many other authors, the event also welcomes Charles Lytton, author of “New River: bonnets, apple butter, and moonshine,” “The Cool Side of the Pillow” and “The View From the White Rock,” all of which chronicle his life growing up on River Ridge, and Avis Turner, author of “In the Land Where Fairies Cried Tears of Stone,” highlighting her grandmother’s memories of growing up in Patrick and Henry Counties.
The artists’ roster includes Carol Yopp, showcasing a variety of wildlife paintings and Lorraine Siana Roe, presenting her signature photography of Franklin County landscapes.
The event also will feature local musicians, storytelling, live glassblowing demonstrations at The Grainery, children's activities and food vendors.
The Mountain Spirits Festival is held in Rocky Mount’s public parking lot off Claiborne Avenue and adjacent to the Franklin County Public Library.
For more information, visit http://www.mountainspiritsfestival.com. For information about Franklin County and other events, visit http://www.VisitFranklinCountyVa.org, or call (540) 483-3040.
Tarah Holland, Franklin County Office of Economic Dev., http://www.visitfranklincountyva.org, +1 540-483-3040, [email protected]
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