Daily
Roanoke
Thursday, April 9th, 2026
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 9th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Freedom Credit Union is hosting a food drive to support the Boys & Girls Club of Southwest VA. Donations will be accepted at designated drop-off locations this week to help local families in need. WDBJ7
- ➤ On April 18, the free Blue Ridge Kite Festival will return to Green Hill Park in Roanoke County. The event will offer kite flying, family activities, and a special photo op (thanks to Virginia 811) while the first 1,000 kids receive a free kite. WSLS 10
- ➤ A local music compilation featuring neighborhood talent was released yesterday to benefit the Roanoke Refugee Partnership. Organized by community volunteers, the project will raise funds for refugee services + strengthen community ties. WDBJ7
- ➤ Families can join a safety rally at Westside Elementary School this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m to practice safe walking & biking ahead of Walk & Roll to School Day on May 6, where hands-on activities will boost skills on busy roadways. WFIR News
- ➤ A new Roanoke events calendar compiles 30 local happenings for this week, featuring a pop-up putt-putt course at Big Lick Brewing Co. today, live music at community centers, and art, food plus family events through the weekend—check with organizers for updates. The Roanoke Rambler
ACCIDENTS NEWS
- ➤ A downed power line forced officials to close Alt. 220 in Botetourt County (April 8), triggering temporary reroutes for motorists and prompting planned repairs. WDBJ7
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Spill the Honey – Shared Legacies, a film about the Black and Jewish alliance, will screen at the Grandin Theatre on April 16 at 6:30 p.m. The Roanoke Jewish Federation presents the event, with proceeds benefiting the Harrison Museum of African American Culture. WFIR News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Gov. Spanberger signed multiple bills to strengthen schools by expanding career and technical education & streamlining financial aid while increasing parental involvement. The new laws, passed with bipartisan support, aim to boost student success and modernize school facilities. WSLS 10
- ➤ Elementary students from Roanoke County Public Schools raced solar cars on Wednesday at their schools, learning hands-on about renewable energy and teamwork. WSLS 10
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Dr. Sandra Hong explains that spring allergies can cause itchy eyes, throat, and ears and last much longer than colds or flu, which more often bring fever and body aches. People with lingering symptoms (or signs of asthma) should talk to a doctor soon. WSLS 10
- ➤ RSV remains active into spring as federal data shows rates higher than last year, but Virginia will not extend its vaccine period past March and will review orders on a case-by-case basis + experts stress that continued immunization access is key to protecting infants. WDBJ7
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ The Bedford County Planning Commission approved a special use permit for an 82-unit townhome project on Perrowville Road in Forest, voting 3–2 Tuesday evening to include a revised fence buffer (addressing local residents’ safety concerns). The permit now goes to the board of supervisors for a final vote. ABC 13
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Local organizers say the Mighty Eagle Mud Run will challenge participants with a rugged, muddy course & difficult obstacles at a local park later this week. The race is expected to test endurance and boost community spirit. WDBJ7
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Swan Lake
7-10 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the world’s most iconic ballet brought to life by a cast of international dancers in a stunning performance.
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2026 Community School Strawberry Festival
11 a.m. - 7 p.m. & 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Elmwood Park — Free entry — Enjoy delicious strawberry shortcakes and local music amidst artisan vendors.
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Explore & Pour Festival
11 AM – 4 PM — Explore Park — $25 for wine tastings — Enjoy a full day of wine, live music from Latin Heat, and local artisan shopping in a scenic setting.
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