John Jackson Piedmont Blues Festival

The mission of the John Jackson Piedmont Blues Festival is to pay tribute to Rappahannock County native John Jackson and his legacy, and to celebrate the musical and cultural heritage of Rappahannock County. Mr. Jackson was born February 24, 1924.  A Celebration of John Jackson’s life and legacy will be celebrated at our Fifth festival on September 26, 2026 through Piedmont Blues music performances, cultural food vendors, historical displays, and educational demonstrations.  This festival will also highlight local organizations and vendors.  The 2026 festival will be held at Castleton Farms in Castleton, Virginia. 

Mr. Jackson was awarded the 1986 National Heritage Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts.  This is the United States Government's  highest honor in the folk and traditional arts.  Rappahannock County is honored to have had such an outstanding citizen as John Jackson who shared his music with us and the worked, while remembering his roots here. This festival is our opportunity to recognize his talents and legacy, our African American history and culture, and Rappahannock county's musical heritage as we unite together to celebrate a remarkable man.