Papa Joe Smiddy Mountain Music Festival returns

DUFFIELD — The 22nd annual Papa Joe Smiddy Mountain Music Festival returns to the region.This year's festival will honor the memory and legacy of Dr. Joesph "Papa Joe" Smiddy, and is sponsored by Cove Ridge Center Foundation, a supporting group of Natural Tunnel State Park. The sponsorship allows this year's festival to be free to attend; a $5 per vehicle parking fee applies.Smiddy was the first chancellor of the University of Virginia's College at Wise. A lifelong educator, he joined the university in 1954. Smiddy was committed to the educational advancements of all those across the region."Papa Joe Smiddy was quite the character, always wanting to spread the joy of Bluegrass music," said Isaac Webb, a member of the board of directors of the Cove Ridge Foundation. "His performances were infectious; we realized a generation of attendees did not have the chance to see him live, so we are planning a video tribute this year."This year's performers will be Dr. Joe Smiddy and Reedy Creek, the Roan Street Ramblers, The University of Virginia at Wise Papa Joe Smiddy Bluegrass Band and a selected band from this year's Pickin' in the Park series.There will be fixed seating under the amphitheater roof, with additional seating on the grass behind the fixed seating. Festival-goers are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. A shuttle will be available for those with mobility issues.On-site concessions and food vendors will be at the amphitheater throughout the festival evening.The festival is set for 5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 31, at the amphitheater, part of Natural Tunnel State Park located at 1420 Natural Parkway.For more information, visit coveridge.com or call the Cove Ridge Center at 276-940-2674.