Good morning, Roanoke.

6AM City released a new events calendar covering April 1 to April 8, featuring a women’s peace march between Floyd and Rocky Mount and a quirky Paranormal Cirque Specter at Valley View Mall.

The list also features live music, art workshops, fitness classes and more—ask venues for updates.

Roanoke’s Asher’s Coffee is moving to 1302A Grandin Road SW to expand its menu with espresso drinks and a signature waffledilla—its grand opening is set for April 20.

Big Lick Brewing will hire an executive chef and launch a food trailer in May to offer upgraded brew pub fare.

Miranda Thornton, a chemist by trade, turned a bus into Chaos Corner, a rolling art studio offering private party rentals & drop-in splatter sessions.

The Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting this morning and the studio aims to provide a unique creative space in the community.

Roanoke County Public Schools and Carilion Clinic announced a long-term partnership to boost regional workforce development with a $1.25 million investment in medical instruction at a new career center opening in early 2027; the center will replace BCAT and expand health sciences courses for local students.

Kids Square and the Roanoke Valley Resource Authority have teamed up for the Journey of Trash exhibit at Center in the Square, where children will explore an interactive water table (featuring colorful local animal mascots).

The exhibit’s grand opening is Thursday at 10 a.m.

Roanoke County Public School Board met Tuesday night to review its annual budget.

They approved a 4.5% salary increase, added $4.6 million to the health insurance fund and more than $203,000 to the dental fund despite a $3 million revenue shortfall.

Roanoke County Public Schools introduced its first budget yesterday that details investments in classroom technology, teacher training, and facility updates for the upcoming school year (district officials are reviewing feedback).

Carilion is investing over $1 million in school medical instruction at Roanoke County Public Schools today + the funding builds on ongoing partnerships to boost local health care education.

The women-owned health care clinic announced plans to expand its services from Rocky Mount to Salem on March 31 — the expansion is set to begin soon to improve local access to care.

The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation is hosting the first Make Moves Against Breast Cancer 5K Walk/Run in Blacksburg on Saturday, Apr.

25 at 9 a.m. on the Huckleberry Trail to support education, advocacy, and survivors in the region+ organizers hope it will bring hope to local families.

VMI’s TJ Johnson entered the transfer portal on March 31 as he sought a new college team to continue his athletic career.

The move may bring changes to the school’s sports program.

Disco Diner: A Tribute to Widespread Panic

8-11 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Check event page for costs — Experience a high-energy tribute to Widespread Panic featuring talented local musicians.

Chirp at The Spot on Kirk

7-10:30 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Check website for details — Experience a night of progressive rock and funk with Ann Arbor's own Chirp.

Squeaky Feet Jam Band Performance

6:30-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Ticket prices vary — Experience the full-flavor sonic marinade of a modern jam band from Denver.

That's So 70's Live Concert

7:30 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. — Mill Mountain Theatre — Group discounts available — A high-energy celebration of 1970s music featuring the best disco hits, classic rock anthems, and funk grooves.

Local Author Fair

Join us for the Local Author Fair on April 11 from 11–2 at the South County Library, where you can meet local authors, explore a variety of books, and hear the stories behind their work. It’s a great opportunity to connect with the writing community, discover new reads, and support local talent.

Shakedown Citi - Grateful Dead Tribute

6:30-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets available — Experience the vibrant sounds of Shakedown Citi, a Grateful Dead tribute known for their high-energy performances and unique setlists.

2nd Ever Screamiverse Expo

10 AM - 5 PM — Terror Manor — Check website for entry details — Explore the haunted tour with music in a lively midway atmosphere.

Gareth Pearson Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Spot on Kirk — Ticket prices vary — Experience the explosive fingerstyle guitar mastery of The Welsh Tornado, Gareth Pearson.

Leonard Blush and the Camelcals

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Parkway Brewing Company — Not specified — Experience a vibrant rock and roll performance by a versatile live band from Roanoke, Virginia.

Roanoke Valley Holistic Expo

10 AM – 5 PM — Salem Civic Center — Free admission — Experience a day of holistic discovery with inspiring vendors and wellness activities.