Good morning, Roanoke.

Roanoke firefighters will be seen around Valley View Mall today and tomorrow as they launch the annual Fill the Boot campaign to raise funds for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, a tradition that has continued since 1954.

Roanoke Gold’s Gym hosted its annual Barbell Classic 4 competition on Dec.

12 to benefit Ronald McDonald House of Charities of SWVA & Toys for Tots. Local gym members competed to support these nonprofits.

Roanoke Public Libraries director Sheila Umberger (43 years of service) was honored with a certificate and plaque at City Hall on Tuesday, Dec.

2 and will retire effective January 1; her work modernized the library system and mentored many.

Botetourt County drone service is now helping locate missing pets after several were reported lost.

Officials said the program (launched recently) has already aided local pet owners and will continue its search efforts today.

Downtown crews and police worked early for today’s Christmas Parade as vendors secured streets for families.

Longtime vendor Mr. Kettle Corn (serving for 25 years) said careful preparations helped keep the event safe and festive.

CommUNITY ARTSreach hosted Black Nativity at its event center on Dec.

7, 2025. The nonprofit introduced two new additions (CARE Events Plaza and Nurturing Roots Co-op at 3025 Frontier Road) to boost its cultural programming.

Board of Supervisors Chair David Radford said on Wednesday that investments in Explore Park—business, education, housing and transportation may boost future growth in Roanoke County.

He added that these efforts aim to strengthen local opportunities for residents.

On Dec. 12 at the Fire Academy, Fire and Rescue Outreach Coordinator Laura Schnieder tackled a seven-minute physical agility course that is part of the recruitment process.

She completed tasks such as hose carries and dummy drags while wearing a challenging 50-pound vest — proving her endurance.

Roanoke officials closed Link Street and Maplelawn Avenue Northeast at 3 a.m. Tuesday after a sinkhole was found while plowing snow.

Crews began excavating to stabilize the area and replace a damaged storm drain section, and residents are urged to avoid the work zone.

During the holiday rush, local organizations urge neighbors to check in on loved ones as financial stress and depression can affect mental health + community crisis resources, including dialing 988, are available for immediate support.

High school athletes in the Roanoke Valley signed national letters of intent to secure college scholarships.

Amari Worsham committed to Liberty University — while North Cross seniors Ja’ziel Hart, Jase Rhodes and Nathan Hayes chose UNC Chapel Hill, James Madison and Elon University.

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.

Sicard Hollow Live Performance

6:30-10 p.m. — 5 Points Music Sanctuary — Check event site for cost — Experience fearless improv and psychedelic punk-grass rock as Sicard Hollow lights up the holidays.

Grace Potter Live at The Exchange Music Hall

8 PM – 12 AM — The Exchange Music Hall — Ticket prices TBD — Celebrate the opening of Roanoke's premier venue with an unforgettable New Year's Eve performance by Grace Potter.