Feb 17, 2026

Town of Lebanon

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A Small Town that Does Big Things

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Perched in the valley below the Clinch Mountains in Southwest Virginia in Russell County sits the Town of Lebanon. Established in 1818, this idyllic town centers around a cozy Main Street dotted with small businesses and a local theatre, which is its hub. The Russell Theatre, with the motto “Where Community and Performing Arts Come Together,” entertains audiences with a robust lineup of live performances, movie screenings and special events, such as The Clinch Concert Series, Tales From the Front Porch and the Annual Haunting on Main.

“The theatre brings the arts to Lebanon,” says Shane Farmer, director of The Russell Theatre and Parks and Recreation for the Town of Lebanon. “We never had ballet and now we hold recitals and other dance shows. The theatre is a big draw for our county and a great little venue in the heart of downtown.”

First opening its doors in 1936, The Russell Theatre has had several closures over the years. However, the Town purchased the building and restored it during the Covid pandemic, and today’s updated facility is equipped with impressive upgraded lighting and video capabilities, and can do just about anything according to Farmer.

Lebanon hosts several main annual events including Cedar Fest, a two-day festival the second weekend in June, and the Lebanon Freedom Festival on the Fourth of July. The Annual Beach Party, in mid-August, delivers coastal vibes to Lebanon by ways of a sand-filled parking lot, beach music and food trucks. Community gatherings are also a regular occurrence at Old Mill Park, a green space with a gazebo, and Theatre Park Pavilion (an outdoor area next to The Russell Theatre), which will offer “open sessions” on Tuesday evenings as part of Pickins on the Porch, new in 2026.

Recreational opportunities also abound here. J.S. Easterly Park features tennis courts and nature trails, including a scenic waterfall on Little Cedar Creek, and Lebanon Town Park has a variety of courts, including a brand new pickleball complex. These parks also include updated, accessible playgrounds for children to enjoy. The Lebanon Community Recreation Center also offers a wide-range of activities for all ages.

While Lebanon recognizes its deep roots, the Town is continually growing as a community and a destination. From 2018 through 2020, its downtown district underwent a significant revitalization and a bar & grill recently opened for business. Other popular downtown spots include a local café & taphouse and a photo-ready LOVEwork sign. With the motto “Progressing for The Future,” Lebanon takes pride in being a forward-thinking Town, which Farmer notes “is always trying to do new things.” Come for a visit and see for yourself how this small town does big things!