Good morning, Roanoke.

A chainsaw artist carved wooden bears at the Go Outside Festival—now in its 15th year—in downtown Roanoke, and festival visitors admired his skillful work.

Southern Team Subaru and the Roanoke Valley SPCA hosted a dog adoption event Saturday that gave shelter pets a second chance at life—an effort that also included a cat adoption event and a free pet vaccine clinic that treated 65 animals and awarded the SPCA a $10,000 grant from Subaru Loves Pets.

George’s Flowers, a 44-year local business, is relocating to support Roanoke’s flood plan—owners say their long-standing success comes from staying flexible and adapting over time.

Since 2021, the Youth and Gang Violence Program has worked to lower youth violence in Roanoke by meeting with kids referred by courts or on their own—official numbers show youth crime has dropped.

The program will host a Hope for Healing Fall Festival on November 1—at 621 N Jefferson Street—to offer educational, vocational and mental health resources.

A Roanoke student battling Stage IV bone cancer walked across the stage at William Byrd High School on Sunday to receive his diploma with honors.

Cam, a former football player, was celebrated by family, friends and school leaders for his courage—he became the first student to walk on stage for the class of 2026.

Former Roanoke College swim captain Lily Mullens criticized Congresswoman Spanberger for giving an unclear answer on protecting women’s locker rooms during the October 9 debate, saying that a direct stance is needed to defend women’s rights in Virginia—she stressed that Lt. Governor Sears showed stronger leadership by clearly opposing the policy. Early voting is ongoing and the debate highlights how candidates differ on this key issue.

Roanoke City Sheriff's Office will hold a fundraiser at two local McDonald's on Tuesday, Oct 21 from 5-7 p.m., where deputies will join restaurant workers + proceeds will support Project Lifesaver to help locate people with cognitive challenges.

Governor Glenn Youngkin announced that 104 tourism programs will soon receive over $625,000 in matching-grant funds to boost off-peak travel statewide—local partners will match this with more than $730,000, generating over $1.3 million in new marketing efforts.

The awards, managed by the Virginia Tourism Corporation, are set to help small businesses and tourism organizations drive economic growth.

On Monday, the Roanoke City Council will hear a presentation by Cynthia Morrow from the Roanoke City Health Department showing that local health measures—cancer, heart disease, asthma, and diabetes—are worse than state averages.

Later, the council will hold a public hearing and vote on a rezoning request for a 28-acre lot near Brandon Point Apartments.

Over 500 people participated in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s at Wasena Park this past Saturday to raise funds and awareness for research on the disease.

The event, organized by local groups including the Masons, raised over $145,000 to support memory care and research efforts.

Turnpike Troubadours Concert

5-8:30 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — Tickets from $49.50 — Experience the Wild America Tour 2025 with Turnpike Troubadours and Dawes.

Randy Travis Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the legendary Randy Travis as he performs his timeless hits.

Chili Cook-Off at Center in the Square

12-4 p.m. — Center In The Square — $15 for chili tasting — Celebrate Roanoke's tradition with vibrant flavors and a chance to win prizes.

John Fogerty: The Legacy Tour

7-9 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — Tickets starting at $53.50 — Experience classic rock legend John Fogerty performing for the first time in Salem.

Petals & Potions Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Well Hung Vineyard — $90 per person — Create an autumn floral centerpiece while enjoying a curated wine tasting experience.

Greensky Bluegrass Concert

7-9 p.m. — Jefferson Center — Cost Info TBD — Enjoy an evening of electrifying bluegrass music from Greensky Bluegrass.

TobyMac Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Tickets from $25 — Experience an electrifying evening with TobyMac's inspiring music live in Roanoke.

Disney On Ice: Road Trip Adventures

1-2:30 p.m. — Berglund Center — Family-friendly fun — Embark on a magical journey with Mickey Mouse and friends through iconic Disney destinations.

Shwayze Live

6:30-11:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Tickets available — Experience Shwayze’s feel-good vibes with supporting acts The Quasi Kings and Twin Fin.