Wednesday, February 4th, 2026
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 4th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ A local events calendar lists activities including live theater + art exhibitions, live music and community gatherings from today through Feb. 11 in Roanoke, and readers are encouraged to contact venues for any last-minute changes. The Roanoke Rambler
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ Firefighters were discharged from the hospital & are recovering after injuries sustained in a house fire on Feb. 3 while remaining under close medical observation. WDBJ7
- ➤ All four firefighters injured in a January house fire on Courtland Road NW have been discharged from the hospital and are recovering at home after a rapid rescue on Jan. 29 at 10:45 a.m. ABC 13
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ After more than a week off due to heavy snow and ice, Roanoke City School District welcomed students back Tuesday as officials worked with city snow fighters to clear sidewalks, though some parents expressed concerns about lingering icy conditions. WDBJ7
- ➤ Roanoke City School District announced new safety protocols ahead of student returns. District officials said updated security checks and emergency plans will be in place at schools to ensure a safe start. WDBJ7
- ➤ Roanoke City Public Schools will hold a virtual town hall meeting Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. to discuss potential cuts in programs, staffing & supplemental services due to a $16.5 million shortfall highlighted by CFO Kathleen Jackson. Cardinal News
FINANCE NEWS
- ➤ Virginia Tech professor Jesse Lineberry advises young and first-time tax filers to gather essential documents, like W-2s and 1099s, and file sooner to meet the upcoming tax season deadlines. He also notes that recent tax code changes make it important to adjust retirement and savings contributions for tax year 2026. WSLS 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Botetourt County Board approved a hazard analysis study on the Orchard Lake dam (options include lowering, breaching, or repairing the structure) after residents stressed the need to preserve the lake. County officials will work with Richmond-based Timmons Group to assess the risks and decide next steps. WSLS 10
- ➤ Mayor Joe Cobb invites residents to explore transforming the Berglund Center into an entertainment district with amenities including a potential casino. The plan calls for $30 million in public funds — and $300 million in private investment — with a referendum set to let voters decide if the proposal moves forward. Cardinal News
- ➤ Virginia lawmakers will review nearly 30 bills to limit data center water use, including one that would require rainwater harvesting on 30% of roofs; local officials plan a public Q&A on Google’s planned facility for Saturday, Feb. 7 at 11 a.m. at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church. WDBJ7
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ UVA health experts are monitoring three viruses (avian influenza, Oropouche virus, and Mpox) that could cause local health issues. They said changes in the viruses and the presence of local animal and insect carriers may raise the risk of outbreaks. WDBJ7
- ➤ Health officials report that a raccoon collected on Friday, Jan. 23 tested positive for rabies near Thirlane Rd. and Connie Dr. in northern Roanoke County. They urge pet owners to keep vaccinations current and advise citizens to avoid wild animals. WDBJ7
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ The Haven opened downtown on Jan. 29 at 108 Campbell Ave SE with dishes like hot honey dip and burgers and a SuperBowl party on Feb. 8; Covenant Coffee will soon park a mobile trailer by Greenway Park and Mama Jean’s Barbecue revives its historic vinegar pie recipe. The Roanoke Rambler
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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.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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