Good morning, Roanoke.

Elisa, a 12-year-old known for her kind smile and gentle nature, is seeking a permanent home that will offer steady support so she can pursue her love for art and caring for other children.

Local caregivers say she thrives in simple outings and quality time with a family — a bond she is ready to build.

Family and friends gathered to honor Autumn Bushman on what would have been her 11th birthday with cupcakes, tealight candles, and balloons as symbols of remembrance.

Her mother said the event backed a petition to pass a law making bullying a crime — a measure she hopes will help prevent future tragedies.

Thirteen-year-old Andre is an energetic teen who loves playing basketball—he also enjoys rollerblading and following WWE stars that fuel his passion for outdoor adventure.

He hopes to join a friendly and respectful family that supports his active lifestyle as he pursues his dream of becoming a police officer or firefighter.

On November 30, a southeast Roanoke church was damaged by a fire — congregation members prayed in the aftermath.

Southwestern Health Region launched an online directory for pregnant and postpartum people to find care resources and view health data from an executive order signed in December 2024.

The new website helps users find an OB-GYN, enroll in Medicaid, access mental health support, and share feedback — a central step to boost maternal care.

Many people in Roanoke are beginning to decorate for Christmas after Thanksgiving, so a Cleveland Clinic doctor advises using a stable ladder and proper equipment to avoid falls, cuts, and strains—injuries that occur when unstable furniture or improper ladder use is involved.

He also recommends using glass-enclosed candles and fire-resistant, artificial trees to help reduce fire risks.

Food Lion Feeds is partnering with 55 college basketball teams including Virginia Tech and Liberty University to donate 100 meals for every free throw made this season — the program has already provided over 6.5 million meals since 2019.

Holiday Pops Spectacular by Roanoke Symphony Orchestra

7:30-9 p.m. — Salem Civic Center — $31-$56, Children 12 & under $12 — Experience a heartwarming celebration of holiday classics with LaTetra Lewis and the Pops.

Peen: A Tribute to Ween

8:00-9:30 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — $ — Experience a lively tribute to the eclectic band Ween featuring The Big Debbies with their unique blend of groove and energy.

Fayetteville Marksmen at Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs

7:05-8:35 p.m. — Berglund Center — $3 beers all game long — Kick off the weekend early with Thirsty Thursday while cheering on the Rail Yard Dawgs.

Roanoke's Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9:00 p.m. — Martin's Downtown — Check Eventbrite for ticket pricing — Embrace the holiday spirit with contests, games, and cheers in your ugliest sweater at this festive pub crawl.

The Nutcracker by Southwest Virginia Ballet

3-5 p.m. — Berglund Center — Ticket purchase required — Experience the magic of The Nutcracker with a large cast and live orchestra in this beloved holiday classic.

Handel's Messiah Performance

7-8:30 p.m. — Jefferson Center, Roanoke, VA — Ticket info available — Experience the timeless power of Handel’s Messiah through choral and orchestral performance.

Roanoke Ballet Theatre Presents The Nutcracker

2-8 p.m. — Jefferson Center — $10 children's tickets — Experience the enchanting tale of Clara and her Nutcracker with stunning performances and holiday cheer.

The Santa Cares Experience

1 PM — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Free entry — Enjoy seasonal songs with Santa and capture the holiday magic with Cloud Bobby.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Buffet Celebration

5-8 p.m. — The Regency Room — $56 adults, $28 children under 12 — Indulge in a festive buffet dinner in a historic setting this holiday season.

Illuminights Festival

Half-mile of stunning lights — Explore Park — Ticket details upcoming — Experience the magic of over 650,000 lights and festive activities for families.