6th Annual Broken String Bluegrass Festival
Program Details & Spotlights
Immerse yourself in a full day of premier bluegrass music and pristine countryside views at the 6th Annual Broken String Bluegrass Festival. Held on the expansive grounds of Death Ridge Brewery (situated on a historic Civil War campground), this festival features an outstanding lineup of top-tier bluegrass bands performing on the main stage, including the legendary Lonesome River Band. Warm up by the fire pits, grab a cold glass of craft beer or cider, and browse a marketplace of local craft and food vendors.
For those of us living the lake life at Lake Anna, a short, scenic drive up through the rolling hills of Virginia’s Piedmont region is always a welcome weekend adventure—especially when it leads to one of the most anticipated musical gatherings of the season. The 6th Annual Broken String Bluegrass Festival brings the finest picking, grittiest vocals, and warmest community vibes to Jeffersonton. Taking place on the sweeping, historic grounds of Death Ridge Brewery, this festival has quickly grown from a local favorite into a premier destination for bluegrass purists and casual music lovers alike.
There is something deeply magical about hearing banjo rolls and fiddle solos echoing across a landscape steeped in history. Death Ridge Brewery sits on a historic Civil War campground, and as you gaze out over the pristine countryside, you can feel the layers of time that make this corner of Virginia so special. As the afternoon sun begins to dip, the brewery's famous fire pits will be lit, casting a cozy glow over a crowd of friends, neighbors, and travelers sharing a love for authentic, handmade music.
This year's lineup is nothing short of spectacular, anchored by the legendary, award-winning Lonesome River Band. Renowned for their hard-driving rhythm and soaring harmonies, they represent the absolute gold standard of modern bluegrass. Between sets on the main stage, you'll have plenty of time to explore the festival grounds. Death Ridge will be pouring their signature craft beers and local ciders, while an eclectic marketplace of local artisans, crafters, and food trucks serves up delicious eats and unique, hand-crafted Virginia treasures.
Whether you are a die-hard bluegrass fan who knows every flatpicked run by heart, or you're simply looking for a perfect day trip to escape the daily grind and enjoy the fresh country air, the Broken String Bluegrass Festival offers an unbeatable slice of Virginia culture. Grab your favorite camp chair, gather your crew, and get ready for a day of foot-stomping rhythm and memories that will last long after the final chord fades.
Why You Should Attend
- World-Class Talent: Catch legendary headliners like the Lonesome River Band alongside a curated lineup of incredible regional bluegrass acts.
- Stunning Historic Setting: Sip craft brews on a gorgeous, expansive property that served as a Civil War campground, offering panoramic views of the Virginia countryside.
- Local Flavor: Enjoy an outstanding selection of Death Ridge Brewery's estate-brewed beers, local hard ciders, and a diverse lineup of popular food trucks.
- Artisan Shopping: Browse a vibrant marketplace featuring local vendors, artists, and craftsmen showcasing unique, locally-made goods.
- Unbeatable Autumn/Spring Vibes: Warm up by the signature outdoor fire pits as the evening cools down, creating the ultimate cozy festival atmosphere.
Insider Tips
- Bring Your Own Seating: Seating is lawn-style on the brewery’s expansive grass fields. Be sure to pack comfortable lawn chairs or a large, thick picnic blanket to claim your perfect spot in front of the stage.
- Dress in Layers: The festival runs from late morning to night. Virginia's countryside can get surprisingly chilly once the sun goes down, so bring a warm flannel, jacket, or throw blanket for the evening sets.
- Arrive Early for Prime Parking: This is a highly popular regional event. To secure a close parking spot and get your chairs set up in the sweet spot of the soundboard, aim to arrive shortly after gates open.
- Carpool from Lake Anna: Gather your lake neighbors! Carpooling is highly recommended to ease parking and ensure everyone has a designated driver after enjoying Death Ridge's excellent craft selection.
- Check the Pet Policy: While Death Ridge is generally a very pet-friendly venue, large festival crowds can be overwhelming for some animals. If you bring your leashed furry friend, consider setting up a bit further back from the main stage speaker stacks.
⚓ Local Visitor Navigation Tips & Parking
This is a ticketed, all-ages event, and tickets must be purchased in advance via Afton Tickets or the brewery's website. Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets for the main stage field. Friendly, leashed pets are welcome, and they can even enjoy the on-site Grrowler dog park.