Sunday, December 14th, 2025
Good morning, Roanoke. Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 14th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Smith Mountain Lake community brought holiday cheer by donating bikes to over 800 children, brightening the season for local families as they prepare for Christmas. WDBJ7
- ➤ Local contractor Nathan Wheat led a community effort that collected over 330 bikes for children this Christmas. The donated bikes will be distributed next week in Franklin, Alleghany, Roanoke, and other areas, and donations are still accepted at Fisher’s Insurance or A&D Wrecker Service (two locations). WDBJ7
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ A Christmas Story returns to Mill Mountain Theatre as a live stage show featuring Ralphie’s quest and a famous leg lamp, running until December 21 (final performances this season) and offering festive fun for families. WSLS 10
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ On Dec. 8, PARK Roanoke changed its downtown garages to a gateless system that uses QR codes + a 4-step payment process to reduce wait times. Some drivers had issues with certain web browsers, but officials said the change eased traffic and improved flow. WSLS 10
- ➤ On Dec. 12, candidates trialed a new physical agility course at the Fire Academy as part of the fire recruitment process. Fire Outreach Coordinator Laura Schnieder and Capt. Nick Schmitt highlighted challenges like dragging a 175-pound dummy and carrying a 50-pound vest (adding extra weight) to test strength and endurance. Roanoke County
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Strasburg won its first state football championship at Salem Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 13 after overcoming a two-touchdown deficit in the first quarter to beat Glenvar 49–27—The Rams’ powerful running game set a historic tone. Cardinal News
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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