Blog and Local Stories of Halifax County, VA

Merry and Bright

Returning home for the holidays or looking for a new family tradition? While Halifax County may not be blanketed in snow like the north pole, you’ll still find plenty of warmth, hospitality, and holiday cheer in our community. From light displays at the state park, to Christmas tea in a

November 27, 2024

Holiday Shopping Guide

Still searching for that ideal holiday gift for your loved ones? Whether you’ve procrastinated until the last minute or simply enjoy the thrill of discovering unique finds, we’ve curated a list of local small businesses catering to all your shopping needs. Embrace the spirit of giving while supporting small businesses

November 19, 2024

Halifax Tourism Hosts Fall Conference

Halifax and Berry Hill Resort was the location for the Sold Out VADMO Fall Meet Up 2024. Thanks go to hosts LaTonya Hamilton and Ben Owen of Halifax County Tourism for planning an exciting, experiential and educational conference. Activities included a tour and group event at Virginia International Raceway (VIR),

October 16, 2024

Frightening Festivities in Halifax County

So, what can we look forward to this Halloween? After looking at our crystal ball we’ve put together a list of all the Fall and Halloween experiences you can discover in Halifax County this October. Whether you’re looking for treats, thrills, costume contests, or drinks, there is a variety of

October 15, 2024

Reelin in Fall

Hi, Brian Clark here to talk to you today about the best and most effective fishing patterns, and areas for largemouth bass on the Kerr Reservoir, better known as “Buggs Island” Lake. I have spent many hours in my more than 20 years on this body of water. I have

October 11, 2024

Sip, Savor & Explore the SoVa Craft Beverage Trail!

Covering two picturesque counties–Mecklenburg and Halifax–the SoVa Craft Beverage Trail features 11 distinct venues, including 7 wineries, 3 breweries, and 1 distillery. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, this trail is the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and craft culture. But that’s not all–there’s a passport challenge! Visit at

September 20, 2024

Paw-some Local Attractions to Enjoy with Your Dog

Are you planning a vacation, but you don’t want to leave your four-legged friend behind? We get it – in Halifax County, dogs are man’s best friend, too. From working alongside their owners on local farms to greeting arriving guests from the porch, our pets are more than companions, they

August 22, 2024

The Blueway Series III: The Dan River

Experience the Dan River, part of the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, where three rivers and two lakes span Halifax and Mecklenburg counties. This unparalleled paddling destination offers untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife, and easy access from major metro areas. Whether you seek a leisurely lake excursion or a challenging multi-day river

July 31, 2024

The Blueway Series II: Banister Lake and Banister River

In this instalment of The Blueway Series, we’ll be examining the Banister Lake and Banister River. Experience the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, where three rivers and two lakes span Halifax and Mecklenburg counties. This unparalleled paddling destination offers untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife, and easy access from major metro areas. Whether

July 19, 2024

The Blueway Series: The Staunton River

Experience the Southern Virginia Wild Blueway, where three rivers and two lakes span Halifax and Mecklenburg counties. This unparalleled paddling destination offers untouched landscapes, abundant wildlife, and easy access from major metro areas. Whether you seek a leisurely lake excursion or a challenging multi-day river adventure, the Blueway delivers. In

July 16, 2024

Barbecue Wars Comes to South Boston, Virginia

Nationally featured barbecue pitmasters wage an all out barbecue war in South Boston, Virginia on July 13 from 2 – 6 p.m. on the grounds of the Gazette-Virginian offices, located at 3201 Halifax Road. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased online or at The Gazette-Virginian office, and part of

July 3, 2024

Top Seven for Summer Fun in Halifax County

Get ready to soak up the sun and make the most of your vacation with our top-7 things to do in Halifax County this summer. From exciting events, to indulging in fresh seasonal dishes, or sipping refreshing beer at our local brewery, this list has it all. Follow these seven

June 9, 2024

In Full Bloom: Top Springtime Activities in Halifax County, VA

After a long winter, spring is finally here! All the signs are here in Halifax County – warmer weather, blooming flowers, longer days, and the distant roar of motors speeding around a track. Escape cabin fever and winter doldrums while enjoying these genuine Halifax County spring experiences. Watch a Race

March 1, 2024

Halifax County is for Lovers

Planning a special evening or weekend for your significant other but don’t know where to start? Halifax County has a variety of unique and fun attractions perfect for a date, whether it’s your first outing as a couple or an anniversary celebration. We’ve made a list of date ideas and

February 2, 2024

25 Must Try Halifax Experiences in 2025

To celebrate the new year, we’ve created a list of 25 authentic Halifax County experiences to try in 2025. Based on popular attractions among visitors and some of our personal favorites, the activities on this checklist are some of the best the county has to offer. Whether you’re visiting for

December 30, 2023

Springfield Distillery – Handcrafted Spirits and Traditions

If you’re a fan of handcrafted spirits and are looking for a unique experience in Halifax County, Virginia, then a visit to Springfield Distillery is a must. This family-owned distillery is nestled in the bucolic rolling hills of Halifax County and is known for its award-winning small-batch spirits. The distillery is a

September 1, 2023

From Farm to Festival: The Halifax County Cantaloupe

Welcome to Halifax County’s most anticipated event of the summer! Prepare yourself for a night filled with friends, food, festivities, and sweet cantaloupes. Celebrating its 43rd year, the Virginia Cantaloupe Festival has become a beloved tradition among both locals and visitors. You may be wondering: what makes these cantaloupes so

July 10, 2023

Top 10 Must Try Experiences for your next race weekend in Halifax County Virginia

Top 10 Must Try Experiences for Your Next Race Weekend in Halifax County, VA

Welcome to Halifax County, Virginia, home of South Boston Speedway and its legendary short-track racing. As you bask in the exciting atmosphere of race weekend, don’t forget to take several pit stops along the way and explore the diverse experiences our community has to offer. Fuel your need for speed

June 16, 2023

Resurrecting the Past – The Story of Noland Village

Located at the intersection of Morton’s Ferry and Cole’s Ferry in Providence in northern Halifax County, lies Noland Village. Once a commercial hub for northeastern Halifax County, the small community thrived as farmers brought tobacco for sale, their wives shopped at the general store, and families came to worship on

April 28, 2023

Kid Friendly Activities in Halifax County VA

Kid-Friendly Fun in Halifax County

World of Sports The World of Sports is a must-stop for any family visiting Halifax County. Why? It has a variety of activities to keep kids (and parents) entertained throughout the day. Kids will enjoy ducking and dodging while playing laser tag, speeding around turns in a go-kart, and competing for high

May 24, 2022

Fishing in Spring

Greetings from historical Halifax County, Virginia, and the waters that call it home. I am the son of both. I am native born with an unrestrained love for the waterways of my home. I have fished, hunted, or explored every mile of navigable water in and around Halifax County. My

April 25, 2022

The Halifax County Barn Quilt Trail: Our Community Quilt

You may see one painted on the side of a barn while driving picturesque country roads in Halifax County. You might see one proudly displayed on the side of a stately home in one of our historic districts. You may even see one while walking downtown districts of the county

April 15, 2022

Top 5 to Celebrate Spring in Halifax County

After a long winter, spring is finally here. All the signs are here in Halifax County – warmer weather, blooming flowers, longer days, and the distant roar of motors speeding around a track. Escape cabin fever and winter doldrums while enjoying these genuine Halifax County spring experiences. Shop a Local

March 21, 2022

On the Rise: The Undeniable Power of Women-Owned Businesses

Within a half-mile stretch in Downtown South Boston, a plethora of women owned businesses fill the retail space and bring life to a small-town Main Street. These local women entrepreneurs represent a growing trend. According to the 2019 American Express State of Women-Owned Businesses Report, the number of women-owned businesses

March 7, 2022

Crossing of the Dan

Most scholars of the American Revolutionary War believe the war for independence was won in the South. However, one of the most neglected episodes of the war was The Crossing of the Dan, just west of South Boston in Halifax County, Virginia. In the past few decades, historians have begun

February 8, 2022

Winter Bass Fishing in Halifax County VA

Nature’s Secret is Patience: Winter Fishing in #HalifaxVA

Greetings from historical Halifax County, Virginia and the waters that call it home. I am the son of both. I am native born with an unrestrained love for the waterways of my home. I have fished, hunted, or explored every mile of navigable water in and around Halifax County, VA.

January 31, 2022

No Place Like Home

It’s that time of year that we welcome friends and family back for the holidays. Whether you’re catching up with friends, welcoming family for the holidays, planning a no-fuss outing, or need to keep the children entertained, we’ve created the perfect list of activities for a hometown reunion. Catch Up

November 10, 2021

The Ghost of Berry Hill

Berry Hill Resort has long been rumored to be haunted, as suggested by visitors and locals alike. After all, the property, which dates back to the 1770s, has had multiple uses – farm, family home, resort, with all the stories that come along with 250 years of history. Over the

October 31, 2021

Say “I Do” to Halifax County

First comes love, then comes marriage. Now that you’ve finally found the one – the love of your life, you’re ready to tie the knot. However, the elementary school rhyme ignores one crucial aspect – wedding planning. Some find it enjoyable, others a headache. Regardless of the category you fall

August 21, 2021

Top-5 Activities for your Guy’s Weekend in #HalifaxVA

Looking to throw the most awesome bachelor party ever? Are you and your best buds trying to shake things up and experience something out of the ordinary? Social scientists have noted guys tend to hang out while doing activities, but you probably already knew that. The key to an awesome

June 18, 2021

Good Times are Brewing in Downtown South Boston

Do you know what perfectly ends a day of traveling? An ice-cold craft beer. I’d maintain a craft beer perfectly ends any day – a long day at work, after floating the river, watching a race, or maybe even after your family reunion (no judgment here). If you consider yourself

May 25, 2021

Most Instagrammable Places in #HalifaxVA

#historylover From its Greek Revival architecture to the stone ruins that dot the expansive property, the historic Berry Hill Resort is sure to add some elegance to your Instagram account. The mansion’s interior is decorated to recreate the atmosphere the Bruce family would have enjoyed in the 19th century, conjuring the opulence

May 21, 2021

Sustainable and Beautiful

Located in South Boston, Oak Grove has had an electric car charging station for five years, one of only four in Halifax County. Motorists who arrive in hybrids or electric cars get a third night free. The inn was the state’s first to have a solar photo-voltaic system to generate

April 20, 2021

Living the Patio Life in #HalifaxVA

What is it about dining outside that feels so irresistible and relaxing? Perhaps it transports us to our childhood backyard campouts filled with stories, s’mores, and lots of laugher. Outdoor dining combines the appeal of the unfettered backyard with the civility of chairs, silverware, and glasses, while still celebrating the

April 14, 2021

Rainy Day Fun

Shop ‘Til You Drop Rain, rain, you can stay, I’m just going to shop all day! Escape the rain and spend the day shopping, browsing antique stores, boutiques, and consignment shops. You never know what treasures and collectibles you’ll discover when browsing local antique stores such as Toots Creek Antiques in Halifax

April 6, 2021

Plan Your Outdoor Adventure in Halifax County

Fresh air. The sun in the clear blue sky above on your skin. The combination of rustling leaves, chirping birds, and the babbling of a nearby creek is the soundtrack of the day. There’s nothing quite like a day in the great outdoors spent viewing native wildlife, hiking a trail,

March 6, 2021

The Mother of Modern Medicine

In 1951, a tissue sample was taken from a poor, dying black woman without her consent. These cells were unlike anything the doctor had previously seen – they doubled at an astounding rate, but even more significantly, they did not die. Cultivation of the cells revolutionized modern medicine, being used

February 17, 2021

Seven Locations to Discover Black History in Halifax County

Seven Locations to Discover Black History in Halifax County Throughout February, we reflect and celebrate the contributions of African Americans to our nation and communities. Rich in history, Halifax County is a perfect place to commemorate the contributions made by people of African descent. The locations listed below are ideal

February 1, 2021

Five Ways to Enjoy Winter in Halifax County

Winter in Halifax County Winter has arrived in Halifax County, along with all the joys of the season: family time, shared meals, and cozy fireside chats. Whether you’re visiting family or stopping through for the weekend, these activities will make the most of your time in Halifax County. The best

January 7, 2021

Out of This World Views

A hidden gem of the community, Staunton River State Park is nestled on the shorelines of the SOVA Wild Blueways. It has several notable qualities, being one of the first Virginia state parks opened nearly a century ago, its location at the convergence of the Dan and Staunton Rivers, in

November 28, 2020

Halifax County African American Heritage Trail

Meadville Community Center 7114 Chatham Road | Nathalie, VA 24577 The Mead Community Center is the realization of a dream of Caleb Robinson, who imagined an African American gathering place to enhance and educate the community. Professor Robinson was born in Jamaica in 1864 and graduated from Virginia Union University

September 17, 2020

Partners in Wine

I like wine. Pinot Noir, Malbec, Cabernet, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose, you name it. If it comes from a grape, I like it. I’m always up for learning more about wine -especially when it involves tasting–so after an epic girl’s weekend of antique shopping and spa treatments in South Boston,

September 8, 2020

600 Acres of History

Tucked away just outside of South Boston is one of the area’s oldest hidden treasures. The Berry Hill Resort is a stately Greek revival mansion steeped in history and standing proudly on 650 park-like acres. The more than two centuries old main house has been carefully restored to its original

September 8, 2020

Top Five for Family Fun at Staunton River State Park

Staunton River State Park offers a full schedule of activities during summer, and lots of things to do all year round. Here are five suggestions to start off with for family fun, plus one bonus. 1. Disc golf Spend a day out on the golf course, the disc golf course

May 22, 2020

Visit Priceless Sculptures Guarded by Goats

What attraction in Halifax County is the most unique? I would say Robert Cage Sculpture Farm, which has an amazing collection of whimsical art created by cast-off industrial materials. I often drive friends and guests to this amazing garden, with a goat bridge over the main driveway and dozens of

May 22, 2020

Top 5 Places to Discover Halifax History

Originally inhabited by indigenous people, the county was settled by Englishman and founded in 1752. Over the following centuries, Halifax County has plenty of history to reflect upon. From hosting important battles in major wars, establishing itself as a tobacco community, to being home to a woman whose cells changed

May 22, 2020

Walk the Barn Quilt Trail in Historic Halifax

The Town of Halifax has many pieces of Barn Quilt art located throughout the town, and Halifax with its historic homes and buildings is a perfect place to walk. Starting at the Town of Halifax Farmers Market, where you can park your vehicle, walkers can traverse an easy 1.8-mile out

May 22, 2020

A Storied History

Like much of the south, racing is a popular pastime and spectator sport in Halifax County. With two tracks of our own, South Boston Speedway and Virginia International Raceway, racing has been a celebrated and important role in the history of Halifax County. Following the inaugural races of both tracks in 1957, the

May 21, 2020

Dining in the Historic Town of Halifax

As someone once said, “Food is the Ingredient that Binds us Together.” This quote not only applies to the three unique restaurants of the Town of Halifax but also the community in general. The dinner table has been a place to share stories, memories, and spend time with loved ones

May 19, 2020

Paddle Historic Halifax

The Town of Halifax offers excellent water access at Banister Lake. Put in at the boat landing on US 501 North and enjoy this beautiful body of water. The 400-acre lake with 10 miles of backwater upstream, consists of natural woody debris and some aquatic vegetation for habitat. Anglers are

May 5, 2020