Art
Ever wonder how Galax got it’s name? In the early 1900s, locals would collect and export the Galax urceolata (a native plant that grows in shaded areas in the Blue Ridge Mountains) to surrounding cities as a source of income. Being such a hardy and beautiful plant, it made a great ornamental addition for florists to use in displays and Christmas decorations. A railroad official, seeing the many carts full of Galax urceolata at the time, suggested the town to be renamed “Galax”. The suggestion spread as far as the Virginia General Assembly, and the name “Galax, Virginia” was officially chartered in 1906.
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Crafting Holiday Decorations with Galax Leaves
Read more: Crafting Holiday Decorations with Galax LeavesA Blue Ridge Christmas isn’t complete without a touch of local greenery. For generations, one plant has stood out—galax leaves. These glossy, evergreen leaves are as much a part of Appalachian culture as they are of the landscape, with their dark, sturdy leaves that last long past the winter frost. When winter arrives and the…
Experience the Magic of the Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention
The Galax Old Fiddler’s Convention is more than a music festival—it’s a week-long immersion into Appalachian music and culture. Each…
World Flavors, Small Town: A Galax Food Tour
It starts the way it always does. “What do you want to eat?” “I don’t know. What do you want…
Galax VA: Where Art Is For Everyone
Imagine yourself weaving through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains to a place where the air pulses with creativity…
The Galax Bass Fiddles: Where Art Meets Heritage
Galax, VA, is often viewed through the lens of music. We’ve had a fiddler’s convention annually for nearly 90 years.…
Insider Secrets to Sweet Treats in Galax
Craving something sweet in Galax? What’ll it be? You want something tasty. Something distinctive. But you don’t know the town.…
Steel Rails to Dirt Trails: The Galax New River Trail
A Journey Begins Stand at the Galax New River Trail trailhead, and it’s hard to imagine the place any different.…
Exploring the Historic Architecture of Galax, VA
When it comes to small towns that defy small-town stereotypes, Galax, Virginia, exceeds expectations. Known for its music and outdoor…
Discover Family Camping at Galax’s Cliffview Campground
When the pace of modern life seems unrelenting—when busy schedules, endless tasks, and noise seem inescapable—you know it’s time to…
BBQ in Galax: The Secret Sauce
By seven in the morning, smoke already lingers above Main Street in Galax. It drifts from a long row of…
Galax Dulcimer: A Unique Appalachian Sound
Music has always found a way to seep into the cracks of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It’s in the air,…
Galax Old-Time Mountain Music: Learned By Ear, Sung With Heart
He’s eleven, holding a mandolin that’s older than he is. The tune he’s picking is older still. In Galax, kids…
Galax Farmers Market: Local Food, Local Folks
For most Saturday morning patrons, the day starts with coffee from a food truck parked at the edge of the…
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City of Galax Visitor's Center 110 East Grayson Street
Galax, Virginia 24333 -
Phone: (276) 238-8130
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Email: info@visitgalax.com
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