The Seven Stars Festival is expected to draw a maximum of 23,500 attendees over a three-day period in October, according to Nelson County officials.
The festival will kick off Oct. 10 in Arrington. County Administrator Candice McGarry said county staff and applicable agencies have met weekly with 100X, LLC, the event promoters, for the festival to be held at the Oak Ridge/LOCKN Farms property.
McGarry said the event includes various types of camping: tent, car, recreational vehicles and multiple “glamping” options. Festival staff are set to arrive for site preparation on Sept. 22, according to McGarry.
“Like the Seven Stars, we are individual points of light, radiating more powerfully together,” according to 100X’s description of the festival. “The environment we co-create reflects the heart of our community. How we treat each other, communicate, share, participate, act, and listen defines our collective culture.”
The seven pillars are a celebration of shared values, chief among them inclusion: “a community where all people belong, free from hate or judgment; sovereign self, which strives to practice authentic expression, conscious and active self-empowerment and sharing.”
“Our community is generous and good-natured, who give unconditionally,” 100X says of the pillar.
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Others include “leave no trace” with a pledge to clean up trash, curiosity and keeping an open mind, “kula” (unified heart), “bunga” (wild abandon) in balancing the seriousness of life with mindless fun and nonsensical play, embracing unexpected norms, and experience where to begin home.
“Seven stars is a mindful community that shares a common intention to cultivate a sense of belonging where people feel respected and supported,” according to 100X.
Seven Stars is an 18-and-older festival. The shows will take place rain or shine. It is a cashless event that accepts all major credit and debit cards as well as Apple Pay and Android Pay. Cash payments will not be accepted.
“Seven Stars is tucked away in the rolling hills of Arrington … within the enchanting tapestry of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this land holds a resonance for music lovers, adventurers, and seekers of connection,” according to 100X. “Where open fields meet shaded groves held under boundless skies, Seven Stars offers a sanctuary in nature for our community and anyone who wishes to join. Whether you’re camping under the stars, discovering new spaces, or dancing to your favorite artists, moments here feel intentional — designed to inspire, spark wonder, and awaken the spirit. Seven Stars is where those who believe in the power of music, art, and kula find their home.”
The festival will feature three uniquely designed primary stages with more than 60 musicians and will include hands-on workshops, crafting activities and outdoor adventures.
“Begin your day with ‘Rise and Shine Yoga’ or the ‘Wake Up Workout’ followed by a guided meditation to awaken your body and center your mind,” the festival website reads. “Explore the excitement of group games in ‘Mindlessly Mindful,’ playful expression with ‘KazooBoo’ creations or a guided ‘Expressive Arts’ session to get your hands messy with painting and art making.”
Nelson County Sheriff Mark Embrey recently told the county Board of Supervisors of planning efforts going into the event that will keep many of his deputies busy.
“This is a huge-scale event, much bigger than what we had last summer,” Embrey said at the board’s Sept. 19 meeting.
For more information on the event’s artist lineup or to learn more about the festival, visit www.sevenstarsfest.com.