Saturday, January 31st, 2026
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 31st of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ WDBJ7 Reporter Leila Mitchell is featured in a 48 Hours episode that highlights her work at the station — the segment aired on Jan.30 and has drawn local viewer interest. WDBJ7
- ➤ Snow and ice are making it hard for residents with disabilities to get around safely, and local services like Meals on Wheels and volunteer groups are coordinating efforts—adjusting routes and schedules to ensure essential aid until conditions improve. WDBJ7
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A local rescue team saved a dog after it fell from an icy cliff on Jan. 30 (following reports of slippery conditions) and the pet is now receiving care. WDBJ7
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Harrison Museum of African American Culture in Melrose Plaza will reopen tomorrow with a ribbon cutting and open house to debut its Healing Hands exhibit that spotlights the legacy of local Black doctors and medical achievements. WVTF
- ➤ The University of Lynchburg is celebrating Black History Month with free events including a reading on Feb. 9 in Hall Campus Center’s Memorial Ballroom, an art exhibit at the Daura Museum of Art through Feb. 26, and a gospel concert on Feb. 22 in Snidow Chapel. WDBJ7
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Due to icy roads after yesterday's snowfall, Roanoke County and Franklin County Public Schools turned to virtual learning to review math and literacy and keep students on track. Officials said the plan helps avoid extending the school year - preserving family schedules. WDBJ7
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Delegate Sam Rasoul requested $600k from the General Assembly to study downtown improvement ideas including a Ferris wheel on Center in the Square and a casino at Berglund Center + upgrades near Roanoke Science Museum. He announced the plan on Jan. 28. WSLS 10
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Salem fans will hear Braden Schenck return to call RidgeYaks games for the 2026 season starting April 2 at Salem Memorial Ballpark — his return renews the longstanding Virginia Tech partnership. WFIR News
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Big Lick Comic Con
10 AM – 5 PM — Berglund Center — Tickets available — Celebrate comics, cosplay, and pop culture with celebrity guests and panels.
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Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Taubman Museum of Art — Ticketed event — Experience a magical evening featuring the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons illuminated by candlelight.
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Valentine's Day DIY Workshop
3-6 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio — Pre-registration required — Create your own unique wood sign with paint and wood stain while enjoying complimentary beverages.
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Public Ice Bumper Cars
12:30-6:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — $11 + fees — Enjoy a fun-filled family activity with ice bumper cars for all ages.
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Rend Collective Concert
7 PM - 1 AM — Jefferson Center — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience an energetic performance from an eclectic collective of multi-instrumentalists from Northern Ireland.
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Perpetual Groove Concert
7-10 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets required — Experience an electrifying blend of rock, indie electronica, and metal from PGroove with an impressive light show.
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Toubab Krewe Live Performance
8-10 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Ticket prices vary — Experience unique music that transcends conventional genres and resonates deeply with the spirit of community.
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Public Ice Bumper Cars
12:30-6:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — $11 + fees — Experience the thrill of bumper cars on ice for children aged 2 and up.
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Riverdance 30 - New Generation
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Tickets required — Celebrate 30 years of Irish dance magic with innovative performances and a new generation of dancers.
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Tuba Skinny Performance
9 PM – 1 AM — Jefferson Center — Cost info not provided — Experience the vibrant sounds of traditional New Orleans music with Tuba Skinny.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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