Because everyone has been isolated inside with families for over a year, Jack Callan and Judith Stevens – founders of the Little River Poetry Festival – are extending a special invitation to the residents of Floyd County.  During the Sixth Annual Little River Poetry Festival, Sunday, June 6, will be designated as “Floyd Day”.  On this day, all Floyd residents will be special guests of the Stevenses, invited to attend at no cost.
“Floyd has given us so much,” says Judith.  “It’s our favorite place to be.  Our hikes up the Buffalo, paddling trips year-round, camping in Daniel’s meadow – it’s hard to beat.  The town has opened its heart to us, and we lost our hearts to it.”
On the special Floyd Day, the Norfolk-based husband and wife will host a “Floyd Day Music Jam,” inviting musicians of all levels to come down and celebrate.  The Festival will welcome everyone with a banjo, a fiddle, a mandolin, a guitar, or any musical instrument to stop by and share their songs.  A microphone will be waiting where musicians can step in front of a receptive audience for a special experience.
As they are Floyd County poets, festival mainstays, Katherine Chantel and Colleen Redman, will join the Sunday Floyd Day celebration by introducing their latest books.
Poets from all over Virginia, as well as few from out of state, will be featured readers; leading workshops, nature walks, and gentle yoga.  The fun begins Friday, June 4, from 2:00 pm to 10:00 pm.  The events and activities will continue all day on Saturday, June 5, from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Among the festivities, visitors can attend readings by youth poets, Cas Horne of York, Pennsylvania, Coral Kendall of Norfolk, Star LaBranche of Chesapeake, Edith Blake of Portsmouth, and Beth Huddleston of Winchester.
On Saturday, with a cast of five readers from Floyd and other areas, poet-musicians Brian Magill of Yorktown and Jim Best of Meadows of Dan, will accompany a dramatic ensemble performance, “Courage: To Speak the Truth.”  They will also have individual readings.
Also on Saturday at 9:00 am, visitors are invited to join the poets as they embark upon the Festival’s unique kayaking challenge!  While on the water in their kayaks, poets will write a new poem on their way to the rock overhang that serves as a natural amphitheater.  Visitors are invited to float or paddle along the river journey with the poets.  At the journey’s end, the poets will then read what they have written to those on the water, as well as to those waiting on the riverbank.
During the Festival, home-cooked meals will be provided on-site by donation.  All Covid-19 health precautions will be taken to keep visitors safe.  Masks are encouraged, seating will be socially distanced, and hand-washing stations will be provided.
Primitive camping will be available for those who wish to camp in the meadow. For guests who prefer indoor lodging, accommodation can be found at Floyd Hotel, Oak Haven Lodge, or any of the outstanding Bed and Breakfasts throughout Floyd County and the surrounding area.
The Little River Poetry Festival is a casual affair, so guests are encouraged to “come as you are”.  No need to dress up.  Due to the outdoor setting for the festival, casual attire could be the better choice.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and use the “lawn chair clause” when feeling the need to “opt out” and take a nap in the meadow.  Along with a journal or notebook, guests are also encouraged to pack rain gear, a flashlight, sunscreen, warm clothing for evening programs, and summer attire for sunny days.
This family-friendly event begins at 2:00 pm on Friday, June 4 and ends at 3:00 pm on Sunday, June 6.  Cost is $45 for the entire weekend, or $15 per day.  Drop-ins are welcome.  There is an additional $35 charge for the optional kayak trip down the Little River.
Each year, Daniel Sowers, owner of “On the Water Outfitters,” along with his family, sponsor the Festival on their farm at 2053 Thunderstruck Road.  Look for the big, open-sided tent in the meadow at “On the Water,” across from the Little River. Free parking.
“If you write poetry,” says Judith, “would like to learn how to write poetry, or simply enjoy reading or listening to poems and storytelling, come on down to the meadow.  All ages and abilities welcome.”
For more information about the Festival, or to book tickets, visit online at  www.littleriverpoetryfest.com.  You may also follow the Festival on Facebook at LittleRiverPoetryFest.

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