In 2015, newlywed poets Jack Callan and Judith Stevens kayaked down Virginia’s Little River while on vacation. As they paddled, they marveled at a stunning natural rock overhang that resembled a granite amphitheater. Inspired by the serene beauty of the spot, Judith envisioned an event that would merge poetry, nature, and adventure. She suggested bringing their poet friends from the coast to the mountains, where they could kayak down the river, write poems as they floated, and later share their creations with an audience on the riverbank.
To test the acoustics of their impromptu venue, Jack paddled across the river and listened as Judith recited a freshly written poem from her kayak. Her voice drifted effortlessly over the water, confirming that their vision was possible. With enthusiasm, they approached their friend Daniel Sowers, owner of “On the Water Outfitters,” who embraced the idea and offered his farm as the festival’s venue. By June 2016, the first Little River Poetry Festival was born.
In its early years, the festival primarily drew poets from the Tidewater region, where Jack and Judith had deep literary roots. Over time, the festival expanded to include local poets from Floyd and the surrounding mountain communities, creating a vibrant blend of voices and perspectives. Anchored on the first weekend of June each year, the event quickly gained a reputation for its unique fusion of poetry with outdoor activities.
Unlike traditional poetry readings confined to bookstores or cafes, the Little River Poetry Festival encouraged immersion in nature. Attendees could participate in dawn bird walks, hike to the summit of Buffalo Mountain, or gather around a campfire for s’mores and singalongs. Yoga sessions, writing workshops, and meals prepared by Floyd’s talented chefs added further appeal. This mix of literary and outdoor experiences fostered a dedicated community of poets and poetry lovers who returned year after year.
Over the past decade, the festival has been a launching pad for many poets who have gone on to publish their work. It has also featured special guests, including Floyd area teachers and historians Sharon Wood and Beth Huddleston, as well as artists and musicians like Brian Magill, who introduced audiences to exotic Javanese instruments. The festival has continually evolved, adding new elements while maintaining its original spirit of creativity and camaraderie.
As the Little River Poetry Festival prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary, organizers promise an exciting lineup of new and returning events. The festival will take place from Friday, June 6, to Sunday, June 8, at the Sowers’ Farm, also home to “On the Water Outfitters” at 2053 Thunderstruck Road in Floyd, Virginia.
Festival-goers can look forward to six open mic sessions where they can share their original poetry and a variety of creative workshops led by experienced poets. Those who prefer to listen can enjoy featured readings from some of the festival’s most celebrated voices. A Saturday morning kayaking trip down the river remains a signature event, allowing participants to write poems on the water before reading them aloud at the natural rock amphitheater. Primitive camping (tent, RV, or car) is available for $10 per night, and locally catered meals will be offered onsite.
A unique addition to this year’s festival is guided horseback riding led by horsewoman Jansen Sowers. Riders will explore the scenic trails of a fourth-generation family farm, experiencing some of Floyd’s most breathtaking landscapes from the saddle. Two two-hour rides are scheduled for Friday, June 6, offering an unparalleled way to connect with nature. This year’s Little River Poetry Festival will also feature Chef Adam Morrison of Two Trees Catering, who will provide meals in the meadow (meal tickets can be obtained via donation day of).
The festival’s literary lineup is as impressive as ever. Returning Floyd poets Colleen Redman and Katherine Chantal will be joined by Norfolk’s featured poet, Angela Stevens. The festival also continues to attract poets from Roanoke, Blacksburg, Richmond, and beyond, including Jamie Bell, Piper Durant, Michelle Acker, Rachel Anne Morris, Maggie Dillow, Dorian North, Rifke, and Erika Joyner.
Visual arts will also be part of this year’s celebration. Richmond-based artist Becky Taylor will showcase her work alongside Northern Virginia’s Kara Braciale, an artist affiliated with the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). The festival will also feature the return of beloved poet-educator Beth Huddleston, who was formerly of Floyd and now lives in Winchester.
A highlight of the weekend is the Saturday night panel discussion, “Practice Makes Poets: A Conversation on Process,” led by Rachel Anne Morris. This engaging session will explore the creative practices that help poets refine their craft. On Sunday, the festival concludes with “Now, What Do We Do?”—a poetry ensemble discussion featuring Northern Virginia poet Eric Forsbergh, Roanoke teacher Maggie Dillow, and other distinguished guests.
With its unique combination of poetry, nature, and community, the 10th Annual Little River Poetry Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned poet, an aspiring writer, or simply a lover of literature and the outdoors, this festival offers something for everyone.
Weekend passes are $60, and single-day tickets are $20. Drop-ins are welcome. Primitive camping accommodations for tents, RVs, and cars can be reserved upon registration, and parking is free!
Kayakers should reserve their spots in advance at www.onthewaterinfloyd.com, and horseback riders can make reservations at www.alongthewaterinfloyd.com.
For more information, visit the Little River Poetry Festival Facebook page or the official website at www.littleriverpoetryfest.com. Celebrate a decade of poetry, adventure, and inspiration at the Little River Poetry Festival!