SWVAL - Southwest Virginia Alternative Living Expo

06/08/2026

We’ve been hard at work getting the SwVAL RePLAY videos edited and ready for viewing!! Keep an eye out for an announcement on them soon! 😍✨

06/01/2026

SwVAL 2026 is in the books!

When we started down the path of planning this event, it was with the goal of sharing knowledge and connecting folks to resources to help them “live differently” - something many of Ferrum Park members share a passion for… what we never expected was the sheer size of the community that would be built from this simple concept of ‘Alternative Living.’

This weekend was a testament to how vitally important community and connection are for all of us. In a world that can feel unpredictable and overwhelming at times, the vibe at SwVAL was hopeful, upbeat, and focused on how we can all support each other and make this world just a bit better together- with so many concrete ways shared to actually make that happen. A better future is possible, and we hope everyone who visited the expo this weekend walked away with more knowledge, more skills, and a better sense of connection and community. We know we sure did. 💚

Once again, thank you to everyone who came, our amazing vendors, and all of our fantastic speakers and volunteers! Big shout out to our sponsors SolShine Energy Alternatives, Earth's Essentials Apothecary, and Traditional Medicinals for all their support. And to the phenomenal Berglund Center for being a great host for our event!

And from the bottom of our hearts- the Ferrum Park board thanks you for your support of the park project! This is truly a labor of love from folks who care deeply about each other and our environment, and now you’ve helped to keep a dedicated public nature space alive for our amazing little community. 💚

If you liked this year’s event- just WAIT until you see what we have in store for next year!
More details coming SOON!

05/31/2026

What a great day!

A huge thank you to EVERYONE who joined us at this years Southwest Virginia Alternative Living Expo 2026 💚

05/31/2026

Be sure to swing by and say *hello* to SwVAL sponsor SolShine Energy Alternatives! 😍

05/31/2026

Just a few of the fantastic vendors at SwVAL 2026!

05/31/2026

It’s the FINAL day of the SWVAL - Southwest Virginia Alternative Living Expo and we’ll BEE at the Berglund Center all day from 9AM–5PM! 🐝🌿

If you’ve been thinking about coming out, this is your sign. From homesteading and holistic wellness to off-grid living, tiny homes, truck conversions, sustainable living practices, and more - SWVAL is full of inspiration for anyone looking to live a little more intentionally and a little closer to the roots that ground us.

Come spend your Sunday exploring, learning, supporting small businesses, and stopping by to see us for all your favorite hive healing goodies, natural wellness products, honey, skincare, and sweet conversation 💛



Can't make it to the expo? Shop Mountain Thyme products online, anytime, at mountainthymehoney.com, or in-person at The Sweet Spot, our self-serve farm stand, from 9AM-6PM daily.

Why is Virginia for Lovers? Plan a trip & find out: http://www.virginia.org

05/31/2026

05/31/2026

Early behind-the-scenes start to Day 2!
Let’s gooooo! 🙌

05/30/2026

It’s been a beautiful day of learning and connecting - and we’ve got a whole ‘nother great day lined up for folks tomorrow! 😍

05/30/2026

Don’t forget to check out the fantastic conversions while you’re here! 🚐🚌💚