Good morning, Roanoke.

United Way of Virginia’s Blue Ridge cut the ribbon on its new headquarters off Electric Road this morning—its relocation from downtown occurred several months ago.

President Abby Hamilton addressed the gathering while discussing affordable childcare, financial stability for clients and regional non-profit collaboration.

Mill Mountain Zoo will host the Party for the Planet event on Saturday, Apr.

25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event features games+crafts and animal encounters for families looking for fun in the community.

The Voyant Beauty Plant in Roanoke will begin winding down operations on June 30 and stop manufacturing by August 31, affecting nearly 95 workers — though it may continue in a different capacity.

A WARN notice from Virginia Works confirmed the shutdown plan.

Cumberland County in Virginia says it made the first clear call for independence on April 22 by instructing Carter Harrison to read resolutions urging a break from Great Britain — a move researchers say is more definitive than North Carolina’s earlier step.

The seventh annual Roanoke Fashion Week returns this weekend with runway events, designer pop-ups and workshops at downtown venues.

Organizers say the celebration will showcase community style and creativity.

Roanoke City's Director of Economic Development, Marc Nelson, called the five-year remodeling of the RoVa Labs building a 'labor of love' and announced a memorandum of understanding with Carilion Clinic to create a downtown biotech incubator — a ribbon-cutting is scheduled for May 6.

Virginia Western Community College hosted STEM Day — engaging about 1,250 local K-8 students with free, hands-on exhibits provided by regional partners — to offer interactive learning experiences that spark interest in science and technology.

Roanoke’s six-month lane change demonstration on Williamson Road ended today with little change to traffic speeds or volumes, according to city reports.

A steering committee (including residents and business owners) will meet over the summer to recommend permanent changes.

Fiber is declared the key nutrient of the year by registered dietitian Julia Zumpano as it supports digestion and feeds good gut bacteria; including 1-2 fiber-rich foods in each meal such as fruits, vegetables, or whole grains can boost overall gut health.

The Blue Ridge Marathon returns to Roanoke — local organizers expect about 3,500 runners to join the annual race.

Additional details about the route and start time are forthcoming.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Coppélia Performance

3-6 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the whimsical ballet where toys come to life in a magical toyshop.

The Shoobies Live

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Parkway Brewing Company — Free entry — Experience live music in a vibrant brewery setting with rotating food trucks.