Update: An earlier version of this story referenced the festival as a maple syrup and molasses festival. The correct title is the Molasses Festival.
In the 1970s, Whitetop, Virginia, founded the community-owned Whitetop Mountain Molasses and Maple Syrup Company along with a sugar house to carry out operations. With the help of volunteers, this community tapped trees and rendered maple syrup and molasses for more than 40 years.
Unfortunately, as young potential volunteers moved away from the community for opportunities elsewhere, staffing became scarce and the operation was shuttered.
The sugaring tradition and Whitetop community continue, however. And on Sunday, October 4 both will be celebrated at the annual Molasses Festival in support of the local Mt. Rodgers Volunteer Fire Department.
“They will be selling molasses, of course,” says Shirley Gashi with Grayson County Tourism. “We also have the famous chicken dinner,” which comes with chicken, fried potatoes, green beans, and a roll for $12 per adult and $8 per child. “We have a music line up… it’s all old-time mountain music.” Gashi adds. Among the local musical artists are Ms. Ellie and the Southfolk Ramblers, Honey Dippers, Middlefolk Bluegrass, and more running from 11 a.m. till 4 p.m.
Included in the fun will also be local vendors and crafts, “there’s probably a good 25-30 vendors there.” says Gashi.
According to Gashi, Whitetop consists of a population around 430 residents, so everyone gets involved. “Considering the population, almost everybody in the community comes out. A lot of them have friends and relatives who come in specifically for these festivals.” Gashi says. But if you are from out of town, don’t worry about the lack of connection. “It is really a true sense of community,” Gashi said, “ even if you’re visiting you’re certainly made to feel welcome and at home.”
The annual Molasses Festival in Whitetop, Virginia is a community-rich event for history-lovers, music-fans, crafters, or just folks who enjoy good family fun.
For more information on the Annual Molasses Festival in Whitetop, visit the Molasses Festival event page on Facebook.
