CulpeperFest Returns June 12 With Music Finals, Local Flavor, and Family Fun

Culpeper’s signature community event is back this summer as the 46th annual CulpeperFest returns on Friday, June 12, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Germanna Daniel Technology Center.
 
Organized by the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce, CulpeperFest is widely recognized as the area’s largest business‑to‑community event, drawing more than 4,000 attendees each year. The free, family‑friendly festival brings together local businesses, organizations, food vendors, and live entertainment in a single evening designed to celebrate and connect the community.
 
A highlight of this year’s event is the return of the Soundwave Showdown, a local music competition held in partnership with Jewell Tone Music & Art. After preliminary rounds in May, three bands have advanced to the finals and will perform live at CulpeperFest: Chang Band, PB&J, and Situation Normal.
 
“The Soundwave Showdown adds so much energy to the event,” said Sarah Langland of the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase local talent and give these musicians a chance to perform on a main stage in front of the community.”
 
In addition to the live music finals, CulpeperFest will feature more than 100 vendors, along with a variety of entertainment and attractions for all ages. Attendees can explore indoor and outdoor vendor booths, enjoy a selection of food trucks, and visit the event’s beer and wine garden.
 
Family‑friendly activities will be a major focus of the event, with offerings including a dedicated children’s area, caricature artists, and barrel train rides. Demonstrations and performances throughout the evening will include aerial arts by Ducking Gravity, cultural dance performances, a birds of prey showcase by Earth Quest, and large vehicle displays.
 
“CulpeperFest is one of those events where you really see the community come together,” Langland said. “Whether you’re coming for the music, the food, or just to spend time with friends and family, there’s something here for everyone.”
 
Returning this year, attendees will have the option to purchase VIP parking passes for $25, which allow guests to park on pavement close to the event and walk directly in, bypassing shuttle transportation. Proceeds from VIP parking will support the Chamber’s scholarship fund. Handicap parking will also be available in the same area for those with appropriate placards or tags.
 
CulpeperFest remains free and open to the public, continuing its long‑standing mission of connecting local businesses with residents in a fun, accessible way.
 
For more information, including a full list of vendors and event details, visit www.culpeperfest.com.

 



Photos from CulpeperFest 2025. Photo credit Strong Arm Media.