Some of the earliest musicians to record country music came from this area. This rich history has kept the traditional arts alive and flourishing in Galax, Virginia.

The Galax Old Fiddler's Convention has been held annually the second week of August since 1935.

This music competition has earned Galax the distinction of being know as the "World Capital of Old Time Mountain Music". Attracting participants and visitors worldwide. Old Time, Bluegrass and Folk Music are showcased as well as flatfoot and clogging dancers. Young and old compete for prizes, but it's the family atmosphere and the opportunity to play music with old friends that keeps people coming back year after year.

The Downtown Fest is held on Friday and Saturday in Galax during the Old Fiddler's Convention and features music, crafts, food, dance and activities for children.

The Galax Leaf & String Festival is held the second weekend in June every year. Craft vendors, food concessions, instrument makers and music fill the streets for this 3-day festival. A special music event is held at the Blue Ridge Music Center on Saturday night.

"Blue Ridge Backroads Live," a unique weekly radio show featuring Old Time and Bluegrass bands from throughout the region, is broadcast live at the Rex Theatre by the local radio station and reaches 4 states and over 40 counties. The shows are attended by many local residents as well as visitors from around the globe. Tour buses are always welcome.

The renovated historic Rex Theatre in downtown Galax, Virginia serves as a venue for various music events, community theater presentations and special public meetings.

The Blue Ridge Music Center at Milepost 213 on the Blue Ridge Parkway, was established by the U.S. Congress to celebrate a living musical culture and commemorate the historic roots of American music.

The new facility, 12 miles from Galax, includes an outdoor amphitheater, interpretive center, luthier shop, and natural areas. Weekend events are held June through September offering performances and educational exhibits.

The Blue Ridge Music Center is operated by The National Council for the Traditional Arts with cooperative agreements from The National Park Service. The music center enjoys a very cordial relationship with the City of Galax, Virginia.