Two November events will celebrate Southwest Virginia’s creative economy, connecting artisans for professional development and welcoming shoppers to a holiday market featuring more than 40 regional artisans.
ABINGDON, VA (Thursday, October 22, 2026) – ‘Round the Mountain Artisan Network will host two events celebrating the region’s artisan community on November 6 and 7, 2026, through grant support from Virginia Humanities.
The 2026 Southwest Virginia Artisan Conference will take place Friday, November 6, from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Heartwood Artisan Galleries & Visitor Center in Abingdon. Designed to help artisans strengthen their creative businesses, the conference will offer practical insights, opportunities to connect with fellow makers, and ideas attendees can put to work in their own businesses.
From building marketing skills and reaching new customers to growing a sustainable creative practice, the conference will equip participants with tools, knowledge, and connections to support their next stage of growth. An optional afternoon lunch and workshop will also be available for an additional fee.
On Saturday, November 7, the 2026 Made in Southwest Virginia: Holiday Market will welcome visitors from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Heartwood. Featuring more than 40 ‘Round the Mountain artisan vendors, the market will offer visitors an opportunity to shop for locally made gifts while supporting the artists and craftspeople who contribute to Southwest Virginia’s creative economy.
“Southwest Virginia’s artisans are an important part of what makes our region distinctive,” said Kim Davis, Executive Director of Friends of Southwest Virginia. “These events create opportunities to support our artisans, strengthen connections across the creative community, and share the quality and character of the work being made here in Southwest Virginia.”
Both events are supported through a grant from Virginia Humanities, helping ‘Round the Mountain continue its work to support the region’s cultural assets and creative economy.
For additional information and registration details for the Artisan Conference, visit swvaarts.com. For information about the Made in Southwest Virginia: Holiday Market, call (276) 492-240.
*********