Springtime in Virginia is a truly transformative season. As warmer weather slowly returns, the landscape responds in a series of beautiful colors. One of the earliest signs of the arrival of spring is the blooming of the redbud tree. Formally known as the Eastern Redbud, this blossom can be seen in April and May, depending on the region. And while you may be familiar with this beautiful tree, you may not have realized that a town in southwestern Virginia is designated the Redbud Capital of the World. Here’s a look at the charming town of Honaker, which abounds in color this time of year.
The town of Honaker is located in Russell County, Virginia. As you can see by the map below, there’s a stretch of Route 80 designated as Redbud Highway.
Google Maps
Honaker has been designated as the Redbud Capital of the World by the Virginia General Assembly. In fact, the town has celebrated the annual redbud bloom with a yearly festival ever since 1981.
Dayton Redbud Festival / Facebook Sadly, this year’s festival was canceled due to the coronavirus. However, that didn’t stop the redbuds from showcasing their beautiful hues of pinks and reds.
The Eastern Redbud Tree, also known as Cercis canadensis or the Judas Tree, is native to eastern North America.
Janet Moore-Coll / flickr
The Eastern Redbud thrives in the shallow soils of central Appalachia. And while these small trees can be found throughout the U.S., many agree that they’re the most vibrant in this corner of Virginia.
Kathleen Tyler Conklin / flickr
During peak redbud bloom, visitors marvel at the way that the color seems to form a tunnel between Honaker and Rosedale.
ak_phuong / Getty Images
While the third weekend of each April is typically the designated Redbud Festival Weekend, the blooming does vary each year. Once they start to develop into blooms, the color lasts for approximately two to three weeks.
jim Schlett / Getty Images
If you missed peak redbud season this year, fret not! You and your family can look forward to attending the festival or visiting Honaker next season. Stay tuned by visiting the official festival website.
Google Maps
Dayton Redbud Festival / Facebook
Sadly, this year’s festival was canceled due to the coronavirus. However, that didn’t stop the redbuds from showcasing their beautiful hues of pinks and reds.
Janet Moore-Coll / flickr
Kathleen Tyler Conklin / flickr
ak_phuong / Getty Images
jim Schlett / Getty Images
Have you experienced the redbuds in Honaker, Virginia before? If so, we’d love to hear all about it!
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Address: Honaker, VA 24260, USA
