The Waldensian Festival held annually in August, began as the "Festival of the Glorious Return" to commemorate one of the most important dates in Waldensian history. In the late 17th century King Louis XIV of France, attempted to destroy the Waldensian people. At his command, thousands were killed and those who survived were thrown into prison. After other European protestants protested against the persecution, those men who survived prison were released and forced into exile in Geneva, Switzerland.

Festival Schedule:

Friday, August 12, 2022

Tours at the Waldensian Heritage Museum - 10am-5pm - Waldensian Heritage Museum - Rodoret Street

Main Street Begins Closing - 5pm - Main Street - Praley Street to Italy Street

Cruise In, Food Trucks, Beer & Wine Garden - 5:30pm - Main Street - Praley Street to Italy Street

Mayor's Welcome & Opening Announcements - 6:45pm - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

Live Music by The Cat5 - 7pm -11pm - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

From This Day Forward - outdoor drama - 8pm - Fred B. Cranford Amphitheatre - Church Street

Saturday, August 13, 2022

Waldensian Footrace - 8am - Valdese Recreation Department

LPDA Bocce Tournament - 8am - LPDA

Exhibits Open - 9-6pm - Main Street - Old Rock School to Carolina Street

Food Trucks Open - 9-9pm - Main Street near Main Stage area

Tumblemania Gymnastic Demonstration - 9am - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

Open Art Competition & People's Choice Award - 9am - Old Rock School - Art Galleries

FREE Kidz Zone Opens - Bouncy Houses & Water Obstacle Courses! - 9am - 4pm - Main Street (Praley to Old Rock School)

Piedmont & Western Railroad Museum Open House - 9am-3pm - Old Rock School - Train Museum

Tours at the Trail of Faith - 9am-5pm - Trail of Faith - Church Street

Tours at the Waldensian Heritage Museum - 10am-5pm - Waldensian Heritage Museum - Rodoret Street

Outdoor Drama Preview - 10:30am - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

Gravity Check Jugglers - 11am - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

Waldensian Presbyterian Church Service & Traditional Meal - 11am - Waldensian Presbyterian Church

The Brother's Cooperative - 12pm - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

Debbie Huffman Dance Academy Demonstration - 2pm - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

BAND - 3pm - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

Beer & Wine Garden Opens - 5pm - Main Street - near Main Stage Area

The Catalinas - 7pm -10pm - Main Stage (Rodoret & Main Street)

From This Day Forward - outdoor drama - 8pm - Fred B. Cranford Amphitheatre - Church Street

Fest Date: August 12 - 13, 2022

Location: Various Location in Valdese, NC

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