Go back in time and rediscover what wowed the first people to find Luray Caverns in 1878. Back when nothing but a flickering candlelight revealed the breathtaking chambers of Luray Caverns for the very first time
Join us on Saturday, August 16, 2025, for Discovery Day! It’s our day dedicated to celebrate that special moment. The Caverns and nearby grounds will be filled with old-fashioned fun from the 1800s.
Candlelight Tour
Take the Grand Illumination Tour and walk through the Caverns lit by soft candlelight. Guides dressed in clothes from the 1800s will tell the story of how the Caverns were found and what happened after.
Live Music by Augusta Blue
From 1 PM to 4 PM, enjoy live music in the Shenandoah Heritage Village. The band Augusta Blue plays acoustic music with an old-time Appalachian feel.
Fun Activities in the Heritage Village
Try hands-on crafts, watch live demos, and learn from people dressed in old-style clothes as they show what life was like in the Shenandoah Valley long ago.
When the sun goes down, enjoy a big fireworks show to end the day with a bang!
Discovery Day at Luray Caverns is a once-a-year experience. It’s great for families, kids, history lovers, and anyone who wants to be inspired by the wonder of the natural world. Come walk in the footsteps of the original explorers—no time machine needed!