Ongoing - Virginia

March 13 - September 6 - John Kingerlee: A Painter's Passage - Kingerlee’s expressive paintings are a combination of gestural brushstrokes and collage defining images that float between representational form and abstraction. This exhibition was originally curated by the late William Zimmer, former contributing art critic for the New York Times, and made available to us through Katherine T. Carter and Associates. www.wkrac.org William King Regional Art Center, Abingdon.

Sunday Naturalist Walk - On going event March - November: Guided tour of the arboretum grounds with a theme that changes each month. $6.00 for non-members; $4.00 for members. 2-3 p.m. 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce, VA. 540-837-1758 ext. 0. http://www.virginia.edu/blandy

First Saturday Walks - Guided tour of the Foundation of the State Arboretum grounds with a theme that varies each month. 10 a.m. - noon. First Saturday each month March-November. $6.00 admission; $4.00 for organization members. 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce, VA. 540-837-1758 ext. 0. http://www.virginia.edu/blandy

Permanent exhibit: - Roanoke Valley, Crossroads of History. Free Fridays: admission is free from 1-4 p.m. every second Friday of the month. Hours: Tues.-Fri. 10a.m.-4p.m.; Sat. 10a.m.-5p.m.; Sunday 1-5p.m. Closed Monday. Adults $2, students (age 6-17) $1, under 6 free. Seniors (60+) $1. Downtown Roanoke - 804/344-0876

Barter Theatre - A theatre for all seasons, open year round, offering comedy, music, drama, family entertainment, and variety and diversity with classic works and plays commissioned especially for our audiences. CONTACT: Barter Theatre, P.O. Box 867, Abingdon, VA 24212, (276) 628-3991.
Birthplace of Country Music Museum - Museum showcasing musical heritage of Appalachian region. Hours of operation: Mon.–Sat. 10 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Sun. 1:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m. Bristol Mall, 500 Gate City Highway, Bristol, VA 24201. No Admission. CONTACT: Bill Hartley, PO Box 26, Bristol, TN 37621, (276) 645-0035.
Birthplace of Country Music Pickin’ Porch. 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Thursdays. Live entertainment featuring bluegrass, gospel, and old-time country music. Bristol Mall, BCMA Museum, 500 Gate City Highway, Bristol, VA 24201. No Admission. CONTACT: Bill Hartley, PO Box 26, Bristol, TN 37621, (276) 645-0035.
Carter Family Fold - P.O. Box 111, Hiltons, VA. The Carter Family Memorial Center features concerts of old time music every Saturday beginning at 7:30 p.m. and an annual two-day festival the first weekend in August. CONTACT: Rita Forrester, Box 111, Hiltons, VA 24258, (276) 386-6054.

November - March - Winter Wonderland Wine Getaway. Escape your routine and join us every Friday evening from November through March for a special Chef's Choice complete three course dinner for $32 per person exclusive of tax, gratuity and alcohol. You'll enjoy a delightful selection of appetizers, entrées and luscious desserts. Chateau Morrisette www.thedogs.com

2009

 June 2009  Back to Top

June 4-7 - 65th Commemoration of D-Day - A four day conference and commemoration featuring discussions, lectures, displays, and a host of other opportunities for veterans to reconnect with friends and mark this momentous anniversary. Over 4000 luminaries will illuminate the 9 acre Memorial in tribute to the 4400 Allied servicemen killed in action on D-Day. National D-Day Memorial, Bedford 540-586-3329 www.dday.org

June 5-7 - Old Court House Civil War Museum Presents: Civil War Generals Re-enactment - Living Historians portray the famous military, political and civilian personalities from the Civil War. See Presidents Lincoln and Davis, Gens. Grant, Lee, Longstreet, Hancock, Jackson, Averill, Matthew Brady, Belle Boyd, etc. Events include discussions and debates, ladies tea, ladies fashion show and a mock trial on Virginia’s right to secede. Evening musical entertainment is a presentation by Stan Clardy called “Soldiers in Gray”. (540) 542-1145. 20 N. Loudoun Street, Winchester. www.civilwarmuseum.org

June 6 - Celebrating D-day at Peaks of Otter Winery - Because of the great sacrifices that was made on June 6, 1944, we would like to encourage everyone to visit The National D-day Memorial. Bedford lost more men per captor than any other place. After your visit, you can then visit Peaks of Otter Winery, present your receipt and receive a 10% discount on your purchase. Taste our wines, visit our farm animals and get advance tickets for The Horse and Hound Wine Festival www.BedfordWine.com   Free Noon-5p.m.

June 7 - Moonlight Trail Ride - Moonlight Trail Ride @ Reba Farm Inn/Saddle Soar Equitainment @ $40.00 per person plus tax.  Refreshments.  8:00 PM enjoy a trail ride in the countryside lit by the moon. www.rebafarminn.com Bedford

June 19-21 - Two-Nights Father's Day Weekend Package @ Reba Farm Inn - Two night weekend package to celebrate Father's Day which includes lodging, meals, and trail ride.  Rates begin @ $340.00 plus tax  Call for more details. www.rebafarminn.com Bedford

June 20 - 7th Annual World War II in Miniature Display - 10:00am to 5:00pm - On this Father’s Day weekend, treat dad to a one-of-a-kind exhibit featuring miniature World War II model planes, tanks, ships, jeeps, historic figures, and more. Sponsored by the Roanoke Valley International Plastic Modelers Society, the event includes over 100 models on display and a book signing. Tours of the Memorial are available throughout the day. Regular fees apply. - National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford - 540-587-8973 www.dday.org

June 20-21 - Father’s Day Celebration at Peaks of Otter Winery - Dazzle Dad with tastes of our many fruit wines.  Taste our wines, visit our farm animals and get advance tickets for The Horse and Hound Wine Festival  www.BedfordWine.com Free Noon-5p.m. Also Visit The National D-Day Memorial, Bedford Museum and Poplar Forest, all within the shadow of the Peaks.

June 21 - Father's Day Trail Ride & Campfire Lunch at Reba Farm Inn/Saddle Soar Equitainment - celebrate Father's Day with a two hours horseback trail ride @ 11:00 AM followed with a campfire lunch at the barn @ $60.00 per person. www.rebafarminn.com Bedford

June 21- Dad's Day at Veramar - It’s Red, White and BBQ at Veramar Vineyard from 11 a.m. to 5p.m. Bring Dad out to have some fun with delicious BBQ, award-wining wines. Fun for the whole family! $25 person (children under 12 half price). Includes one BBQ meal, music, wine tasting. Advance reservations. Food available from noon until 3 p.m. Music begins at 1 p.m. 905 Quarry Road, Berryville. 540-955-5510. www.veramar.com

June 25-27 - Bluegrass at Sedalia - Workshops and vendor booths are offered in a mountainous setting for bluegrass enthusiasts from a multi-state area. - Sedalia Center, 1108 Sedalia School Road, Bedford - 434-299-5080 www.sedaliacenter.org

June 26-27 - Overnight Camping/Trail Ride @ Reba Farm Inn/Saddle Soar Equitainment - Overnight Camping/Trail Ride -- enjoy a 24-hr period with trail riding, camping, refreshments, campfire dinner and breakfast @ $140.00 per person plus tax.  Everything provided:  tents, sleeping bags, food and beverage. www.rebafarminn.com Bedford

July 2009  Back to Top

July 3-5 - Red, White and You at Peaks of Otter Winery - Visit the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford and stop by the our winery for some of our “Chili Dawg”, apple-pepper wine. We accept D-Day dollars. Free Noon-5p.m. Also, Picnic, visit our farm animals and get advance tickets for The Horse and Hound Wine Festival  www.BedfordWine.com  Free Noon-5p.m. Also Visit The National D-Day Memorial, Bedford Museum and Poplar Forest, all within the shadow of the Peaks.

July 4 - Independence Day Celebration - Bring the entire family to hear the Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence come alive on July 4th at Poplar Forest! A festive day of music, dance, historical interpretation and the spirit of patriotism. The celebration will culminate with the annual, stirring reading of the Declaration of Independence from the porch of Jefferson’s retreat. Admission charge for parking and house tours. Grounds activities free. - Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest, 1548 Bateman Bridge Road, Forest - 434-525-1806 www.poplarforest.org

July 4 - Celebrate Independence Day - 10:00am to 5:00pm - with a visit to the D-Day Memorial. Tours will be offered throughout the day. The Memorial will close at 5pm, however, evening fireworks can be viewed from Centertown Bedford or Liberty Lake Park. Regular fees apply. National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford - 540-587-8973 www.dday.org

July 4 - Jordan Springs Independence Day Dinner and Concert - Celebrate the independence of our nation in the free open spaces of the country at historic Jordan Springs Mansion. Culinary delights await you starting at 5 p.m. followed by a concert by the Winchester Orchestra. The orchestra is a top quality 40 piece band that will dazzle your ears with its perfect harmonies.  (540) 667-7744.  1160 Jordan Springs Road, Stephenson. www.HistoricJordanSprings.com

July 7 - Moonlight Trail Ride @ Reba Farm Inn/Saddle Soar Eq - light trail ride @ 8:30 PM @ $40.00 per person plus tax.  Enjoy a ride in the countryside lit by the moon.  Refreshments. www.rebafarminn.com Bedford

July 9-11 - 8th Annual Virginia Southern Gospel Jubilee - A Free admission three night annual event with Professional Southern Gospel singing groups.  Rain or shine, beneath the multi-purpose shelter in Glen Maury Park; 10th Street; Buena Vista, Va. Bring a lawn chair for comfortable seating. Park Camping & Food Concessions are available. 
 Special Guests include:  Mike & Kelling Bowling; The Dills; Soul'd Out
 Quartet; The Freemans; The Oxendines; etc.  For more information:
  http://VaSouthernGospelJubilee.com

July 10 - Belle Grove Ice Cream Social - Bring the whole family at 7 p.m. for some good clean fun and an old-fashioned ice-cream social at beautiful Belle Grove Plantation. We've got all the ice cream you can stand and a discounted rate of $4 for the kids.  (540) 869-2028.  336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown. www.bellegrove.org

July 11 - The 5th annual “Horse and Hound” Wine Festival - Enjoy wine from eight of Va’s finest wineries while listening to good music and visiting art, craft and food vendors. Va’s most unique wine festival has numerous events throughout the day with horses and dogs as the primary attractions.  Families will enjoy this festival because it appeals to both young and old. The event takes place on the spacious and gracious grounds of Johnson’s Orchards, with spectacular Blue Ridge Mountain views. 11am-6pm  Tasters $15--Gen. Adm. $10--Children & Dogs $5 www.BedfordWine.com

July 11 - Cajun Day at Veramar Vineyard - Join us at Veramar for a weekend of Cajun fare from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Light Cajun lunch fare available for purchase. $10 per person includes wine tasting and music begins at 1 p.m. 905 Quarry Road, Berryville. 540-955-5510. www.veramar.com

July 11 - The Sedalia Blues Festival - Blues Competition in the afternoon, followed by headliners and a blues workshop that evening. Definitely the hottest blues ticket in Virginia, this is a must on your summer calendar! - Sedalia Center, 1108 Sedalia School Road, Bedford - 434-299-5080 www.sedaliacenter.org

July 11 - August 23 - A “Peachy” Open House at Peaks of Otter Winery - July 25-26, August 1-2,8-9,15-16,22-23. Sample peaches, nectarines and apples that we make into wine. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy our pavilion. Purchase a bottle of wine and enjoy it while walking out through the orchards and vineyard. Families will enjoy our farm animals. Free noon -5p.m. . . Also, Picnic and Visit The National D-Day Memorial, Bedford Museum and Poplar Forest all within the shadow of the Peaks. www.peaksofotterwinery.com

July 17-19 - VA Horse Lovers Weekend Special - Virginia Horse Lovers Weekend Special is for every horse enthusiast.  Includes two nights lodging, 4-course dinners, 3-course breakfast and
 trail ride thru the countryside.  $380.00 per couple plus tax. www.rebafarminn.com Bedford

July 18 - Dog’s Day of Summer at Veramar Vineyard - Pack up the pooch for Dog Days from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m.! This is a great event for wine and dog lovers alike! Dogs and owners will both enjoy an afternoon at the vineyard. Doggie treats available.  Dogs must be on leash.  905 Quarry Road, Berryville.  540-955-5510.  www.veramar.com

July 18 - Family Day at National D-Day Memorial - 10:00am to 5:00pm Discover the lessons and legacy of World War II through interactive programs, tours, and projects. Activities include Victory Garden projects, book-signings, conversations with veterans, story stations, living history, miniature World War II models on display, and more! This year's event includes a WWII era vehicle show with a variety of military vehicles from the war. National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford 540-587-8973 www.dday.org

July 23 - Jordan Springs Summer Dinner and Concert Series - Treat yourself to a delightful gourmet dinner prepared by Jordan Springs famous chef followed by a stirring concert by Winchester Orchestra. The Orchestra is a 40 piece band of top quality musicians and will begin performing promptly at 8 p.m. after dinner is served. Patrons may partake in dinner or the concert separately on any or all 3 days. Call for ticket information.  (540) 667-7744.  1160 Jordan Springs Road, Stephenson. www.HistoricJordanSprings.com

July 25 - “Touch a Truck…wheels, wings and water!”  Where kids of all ages can climb, - A free community wide happening where kids and adults have the opportunity to see, touch, and interact while learning about dozens of cool vehicles. Additional favorite activities will include events involving “water” such as Firemen’s Foam, misting tent, water spray and possibly even a water slide. Parent supervision is required and cameras highly recommended.  Held at Roanoke County’s Green Hill Park from 10-4PM. www.roanokecountyva.gov/Departments/ParksRecreationAndTourism

July 25-26 - Overnight Camping/Trail Ride @ Reba Farm Inn/Saddle Soar Equitainment - Overnight Camping/Trail Ride in the mountains at Peaks of Otter area. Breathtaking 360 degree views!  Everthing provided -- tents, sleeping bags, snacks/bev, campfire dinner and breakfast and lots of horseback riding @ $140.00 per person plus tax. www.rebafarminn.com Bedford

July 26 - August 1 - Frederick County Fair  - Demolition derby, beauty pageants, live bluegrass music, lawnmower, racing, carnival, livestock shows, petting zoos and more await you at the fair!  (540) 667-8739.  The fairgrounds are on I81 exit 316 on Rt 11 North. www.frederickcountyfair.com

August 2009  Back to Top

August 15 - 2009 Bedford County Family Farm Tour - 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Plan on joining us for a FREE family-oriented event. In celebration of agriculture past and present, this year’s tour will highlight agriculture practices. You will enjoy food samples and informative demonstrations. You are invited to bring a picnic lunch and a camera, but please leave your pets at home. Farm Tour 2009 is sponsored by Bedford County, Bedford Agriculture Council, Poplar Forest, Virginia Cooperative Extension, Bedford Tourism, and Area Businesses www.co.bedford.va.us

August 16 - Richard's Fruit Market Peach and Millinery Festival - Peaches, peach ice-cream, smoothies and live music are just a few reasons you won't want to miss this unique festival. Then there's the millinery! What is that exactly? Beautiful hand-made hats that will strike your fancy with their whimsical designs. (540) 869-1455 Richard's Fruit Market, 6410 Middle Road, Middletown. www.richardsfruitmarket.com

August 22 - Jazz and Wine Festival - Was new in 2008, and met with huge success. This festival will feature a wide spectrum of jazz music, seafood and wine from vendors across Virginia. Be sure to bring a lawn chair and enjoy jazz in a mountain setting. - Sedalia Center, 1108 Sedalia School Road, Bedford - 434-299-5080 www.sedaliacenter.org

August 22 - Sentimental Journey - Join the Memorial for the final end of the summer concert. The Memorial will remain open until 10pm. - National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford - 540-587-8973 www.dday.org

August 29 - September 27 - An Apple A Day Open House At Peaks of Otter Winery - Aug.29-30--Sept5-6,12-13,19-20,26-27. Enjoy the benefits of eating and sampling our many varieties of apples and taste Fruit of the Farm wine. Johnny Appleseed knew that "an apple a day would keep the doctor away”, long before medical science discovered that three apples a day helped with stomach, colon and other medical problems. Take your children to see the farm animals. Free. noon -5p.m . Also, Picnic and Visit The National D-Day Memorial, Bedford Museum and Poplar Forest. www.peaksofotterwinery.com

September 2009  Back to Top

September 9 - Labor Day Bash at Veramar - End the summer with music at Veramar from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. $15 per person includes wine tasting, music and souvenir glass.  Be sure to try our famous Wine-A-Rita.  Gourmet Picnic available if ordered 4 days in advance.  Music begins at 1 p.m.  905 Quarry Road, Berryville.  540-955-5510. www.veramar.com

September 12 - Sedalia's Country Fair - Gives an opportunity to show off your best homegrown produce, home-canned vegetables, meats, fruits, baked goods and floral arrangements, both fresh and dried. An event for the whole family, this festival is sure to please all in attendance! - Sedalia Center, 1108 Sedalia School Road, Bedford - 434-299-5080 - www.sedaliacenter.org

September 18 - Old Court House Civil War Museum Presents: Civil War Weekend - Living Historians portray the military personalities from the Civil War and discuss the events in the Shenandoah Valley during the Civil War. Re-enactors portray the life of the average soldier with a display of uniforms, food, equipment and firing demonstrations and drill displays. Medical procedures of the Civil War, including mock amputations, are also presented.  (540) 542-1145. Old Court House Civil War Museum, 20 N. Loudoun Street, Winchester. www.civilwarmuseum.org

September 19 - Horse And You Event - Fun filled day for everyone!  Pony rides, short loop rides, clinics, demonstrations, vendors, food, entertainment and featuring:  Steeple Chase and Point-to-Point.  Advance ticket sales @ $8.00 per person. Children 6 yrs & under free with paying adult.  Tickets at the gate @ $10.00 per person.  Come and be a spectator or enter your horse for one of the featured races! Reba Farm Inn/Saddle Soar Equitainment www.rebafarminn.com

September 19 - Never Forget - Hundreds of motorcycles will roll into the National D-Day Memorial a tribute to POWs/MIAs presented by members of Rolling Thunder. “Never Forget” takes place at 1PM in Gray Plaza. Seating is limited, and guests are encouraged to bring a chair. Regular admission fees apply. For more information,540-586-3329. National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford. www.dday.org

September 25 - Bedford Centerfest  - One of the region's largest street festivals! Centerfest offers a wide variety of activities to please young and old alike. Artisans and craftspeople from around the state display their works just like market fairs of years past. Live music on four stages. Children's activities abound, and local organizations share useful information with visitors.
Centertown Bedford - 540-586-2148 www.centertownbedford.com

September 26 - Museum Day at Poplar Forest - Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest will participate in "Museum Day," a day when museums and cultural institutions nationwide open their doors free of charge to SMITHSONIAN magazine readers and www.Smithsonian.com visitors. Receive two free admission tickets to Poplar Forest with the Museum Day Admission Card, available in the September issue of SMITHSONIAN magazine or downloaded at www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday  - Thomas
 Jefferson's Poplar Forest, 1548 Bateman Bridge Road, Forest - 434-525-1806 www.poplarforest.org

September 26-7 - Green Hill Medieval Faire & Highland Games - Saturday 10AM-6PM Masquerade Ball at 5-6PM Sunday 10AM–5PM Roanoke County’s Green Hill Park, the site of a spectacular reenactment of medieval times.  Explore the village and enjoy entertainment, eccentric characters, jousting, swordplay, music, handcrafted arts and crafts, vendors, merchants and hearty food and drink. During the Highland Games’ competition the athletes will push themselves beyond the normal physical and mental thresholds of competition www.roanokecountyva.gov/Departments/ParksRecreationAndTourism

October 2009  Back to Top

October 1-4 -  National Competition: North-South Skirmish Association - Member units compete in live-fire matches with original or authentic reproduction Civil War period muskets, carbines, breech loading rifles, revolving, mortars, and cannons.  It is one of the largest Civil War events of its kind in the country.  Free event.  8 a.m.–5 p.m. each day.  Fort Shenandoah, Route 522 N. to Gainesboro, turn right at Route 600 and follow signs to fort.  248-258-9007 www.n-ssa.org

October 3 - Archaeology Open House at Poplar Forest - Mark Archaeology Month with an inside look at archaeology at Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest. Poplar Forest archaeologists will take visitors on special tours to view active excavation sites and the archaeology
lab where artifacts are washed, mended, and labeled. The free tours are offered at 11:15 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1:15 p.m., and 2:15 p.m. - Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest, 1548 Bateman Bridge Road, Forest - 434-525-1806 www.poplarforest.org

October 3 - November 15 - Peak Foliage Open House at Peaks of Otter Winery - October 3-4,10-11,17-18,24-25,31-Nov.1-7-8, 14-15. Enjoy breathtaking views to our farm. Sample apples and fresh cider, along with our Fruit Of The Farm Wines. Enjoy visiting our many farm animals. Free noon -5p.m. . . Also, Picnic and Visit The National D-Day Memorial, Bedford Museum and Poplar Forest. www.peaksofotterwinery.com

October 4 - Tenth Poor Mountain HillClimb - The cyclists congregate at Camp Roanoke and the race begins at approximately 11 AM.  The Poor Mountain run is a gnarly route covering 7 ¾ miles of asphalt, dirt, rock and gravel. This is an excellent course for a fun and exciting race! No one under 14 can participate. Day of registration $25 cash only 8AM-10AM. Online registration powered by www.Active.com  Roanoke

October 10 - A Taste of Tuscany at Veramar Vineyard - Mangia, Mangia...good eats from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. Enjoy a tasting adventure by exploring Italian food and Veramar Wines, not only a delight for the senses but also an expression of the cultural and traditional heritage. Advanced reservations required. $30 per person includes paired tasting of Italian food and wine tasting.  905 Quarry Road, Berryville.  540-955-5510. www.veramar.com

October 10-11 - Arbor Fest at the Arboretum - Drop by Blandy Farm between 10 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. to pick up fall garden supplies.  Choose from a selection of over 50 vendors with fall plantings and other must haves for the serious gardener.  Bring the kids for lots of fun activities!  $5 fee per carload. 400 Blandy Farm Lane, Boyce. 540-837-1758 www.virginia.edu/blandy

October 10 - Winchester Parks Foundation’s International Children’s Festival - Pick up your passport at the door and take a trip around the world!  This FREE fun and educational event for the entire family is from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.  Come ready to learn about countries and cultures from all over the world through interactive displays, live entertainment and international food.  (540) 533-0603. Jim Barnett Park, 1001 E. Cork Street, Winchester www.winchesterva.gov/icf

October 16 - Shenandoah Valley Hot Air Balloon and Pumpkin Glow - Picnic on the grounds of historic Long Branch while enjoying live music and the glow of tethered balloons floating in the skies above you.  Bring your own meal or pick from tasty vendors’ offerings on the grounds.  830 Long Branch Lane, Millwood.  540-837-1856.  www.historiclongbranch.com

October 17-18 - Shenandoah Valley Hot Air Balloon and Wine Festival - Indulge in wine tasting as you enjoy panoramic views of hot air balloons, stroll through artisans’ and crafters’ booths, view antique fire engines, and let the kids enjoy various activities and entertainments.  $10 fee per person.  830 Long Branch Lane, Millwood.  540-837-1856.  www.historiclongbranch.com

October 24 - Red Ribbon week all you can eat pancake breakfast and Car show - The Winchester Elks Lodge and the Shenandoah Valley Young Marines are teaming up for a Drug Awareness Red Ribbon week all you can eat pancake breakfast and car show Sat Oct 24,2009 at the Winchester VA Elks lodge. Address 466 Front Royal pike, Winchester VA. Purchase Tickets in advance $5.00 tickets at the door $6.00. Contact Denise Corder 540-869-9570 ponydoc@rcn.com

October 24 - Market Day: A festival of olden times and tankards - Travel back in time to the early days of Winchester when the Wilderness Road was the best way to go west young man! Enjoy beer, foods, live music, living history demonstrations, and dancing displays that would have been common along the trail. Sutlers will have colonial re-enactment gear for sale. Also tour the period cabin and Abram's Delight home, the oldest in Winchester originally used as a Quaker meeting house. (540) 662-6550. 1430 S. Pleasant Valley Road, Winchester. www.winchesterhistory.org

October 30 - Jordan Springs Hauntings and Happenings Dinner and Tour  - Dare to take a candlelit tour of the historic mansion that has had a colorful past as resort to celebrities, monastery, and rehab center for troubled youth and learn what happens at night in the Stonewall Jackson room! Follow up the tour with a delightful culinary feast prepared by our master chef starting at 7:30. (540) 667-7744.  1160 Jordan Springs Road, Stephenson.  www.HistoricJordanSprings.com

October 31 - 12th Annual Chili Cook Off - This festival takes chili teams to a whole different level! Chili teams start cooking on-site beginning in the wee hours of Saturday morning. The 4-person teams typically have lighthearted themes, but are completely serious about their chili recipes. Don’t miss the fun! - Sedalia Center, 1108 Sedalia School Road, Bedford - 434-299-5080 www.sedaliacenter.org

November 2009  Back to Top

November 6-8 - Mistletoe Market - William King Regional Arts Center presents the 11th annual Mistletoe Market, a holiday gift mart featuring arts and crafts from local artisans and businesses across the Southeast. The season's premier shopping event features holiday items, decorations, jewelry, gourmet foods, clothing, toys, and pottery. www.wkrac.org

November 7 - G.I. Jive - 6:30pm to 11:00pm - 7th Annual G.I. Jive 1940s Dance – Show your support for the National D-Day Memorial while swinging to the unforgettable tunes of the 1940s. The Memorial’s annual 40s dance will take place at the elegant Hotel Roanoke. The hotel is the perfect venue for this amazing evening of fun, food, and dancing. Black tie optional or period clothing attire. Limited tickets available. - 540-587-8973 www.dday.org

November 7-8 - Living History Days and Antiques Appraisal Fair - Step back into the late 18th century during this special family weekend event. Tour period encampments outdoors, view living history demonstrations, and hear early Appalachian music throughout the Manor House.  Bring your treasures to this Antiques Road show style event, where experts provide a customized verbal appraisal and explanation of each object's special qualities.  (540) 869-2028.  336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown. www.bellegrove.org

November 7-9 - Holiday Arts, Crafts & More Extravaganza - This is an annual event. Area artisans, crafters, authors, and musical artists offer their wares for the perfect holiday shopping experience. Sponsored by the GFWC Bedford Woman's and Jr.Woman's Clubs. Portion of the proceeds from admission will benefit the local organizations. - Bedford Elementary School, Below National D-Day Memorial, Bedford - 540-586-4712 groups.msn.com/BEDFORDARTSCRAFTSFAIR

November 11 - Veteran’s Day Observance at National D-Day Memorial - Take time to honor all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces during this special event. The program will include special music, guest speakers, and recognition of all veterans. Free admission from 10am until noon. - National D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford - 540-587-8973 www.dday.org

November 14 - Jordan Springs Give Thanks Dinner and Concert - Celebrate your thanks at Jordan Springs with a feast to end all feasts. Once you have tasted delectable culinary masterpieces, you will be treated to a concert by Winchester Orchestra. The orchestra, beginning promptly at 8 p.m., is comprised of 40 top quality musicians.  (540) 667-7744.  1160 Jordan Springs Road, Stephenson.  www.HistoricJordanSprings.com

November 21 - Thomas Jefferson Wine Festival - Join Thomas Jefferson at the 1st annual Poplar Forest Wine Festival to kick off the holidays and celebrate Virginia’s passion for wine! Ticket price to be determined. Event will run from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest is located at:1548 Bateman Bridge Road
Forest, VA 24551 For more information please call (434) 525-1806 Event subject to change. www.poplarforest.org

November 21 - December 20 - Christmas Time’s A’Coming Open House at Peaks of Otter Winery - Nov 21-22, 28-29-Dec 5-6-,12-13,19-20. Warm apple cinnamon wine and cider will be offered in the wine tasting room. Gift packs of wine and canned products will make wonderful Christmas gifts. Free Noon-5p.m. Visit the Christmas lights at the Elks National Home in "The Christmas Capital of Virginia" www.peaksofotterwinery.com

December 2009  Back to Top

December 4 - Christmas Tours at Belle Grove Plantation - From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day enjoy the magic of a Shenandoah Valley Christmas complete with traditional decorations by regional garden clubs. Relax after your Daytime or Evening tour with Belle Grove’s own Spiced Tea and cookies. Children won’t want to miss Christmas storytelling and a visit with Santa on Sundays. Candlelight and daytime hours available; call for times.  (540) 869-2028.  336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown.  www.bellegrove.org

December 4 - Jordan Springs Christmas Dinner and Concert - Share in the magic of Jordan Springs decorated in holiday splendor including a horse of a different color, Santa's workshop, nearly 50 Christmas trees and over 500 ornaments. A delicious culinary feast will begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by a performance by the Winchester Orchestra at 8 p.m. The orchestra is a 40 piece band of top quality musicians with an amazing repertoire.  (540) 667-7744.  1160 Jordan Springs Road, Stephenson.  www.HistoricJordanSprings.com

December 5 - Bedford Christmas Parade - Santa will be riding at the end of the parade and will be available for visits and pictures afterward. Centertown Bedford – 540-586-2148 www.centertownbedford.com

December 7 - Pearl Harbor Day at the National D-Day Memorial - Join us in remembering the 68th anniversary of Pearl Harbor.  - 540-587-8973 D-Day Memorial, 3 Overlord Circle, Bedford www.dday.org

December 7 - Evan's Home Doll Auction  - One of these lovingly hand-crafted dolls could come home with you! Come bid on exquisite porcelain dolls, dressed in costumes especially crafted by seamstresses to suit each doll. Preview of dolls begins at 2:00 p.m. and the bidding frenzy starts at 2:30 p.m. Don't miss the perfect opportunity to buy an heirloom doll for the little girl or woman in your life!  (540) 662-8520.  Ruth Birch Center, 120 Bellview Avenue, Winchester. www.evanshome.org

December 11 - Christmas Tours at Belle Grove Plantation - From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day enjoy the magic of a Shenandoah Valley Christmas complete with traditional decorations by regional garden clubs. Relax after your Daytime or Evening tour with Belle Grove’s own Spiced Tea and cookies. Children won’t want to miss Christmas storytelling and a visit with Santa on Sundays. Candlelight and daytime hours available; call for times.  (540) 869-2028.  336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown.  www.bellegrove.org  

December 18 - Christmas Tours at Belle Grove Plantation - From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day enjoy the magic of a Shenandoah Valley Christmas complete with traditional decorations by regional garden clubs. Relax after your Daytime or Evening tour with Belle Grove’s own Spiced Tea and cookies. Children won’t want to miss Christmas storytelling and a visit with Santa on Sundays. Candlelight and daytime hours available; call for times.  (540) 869-2028.  336 Belle Grove Road, Middletown.  www.bellegrove.org

December 31 - January 1 - 6th Annual Enchanted Eve - Enchanted Eve held in cooperation with the Town of Vinton is Roanoke County’s alcohol-free, community inspired, New Year’s Eve celebration that begins at 6PM until midnight. All who attend can find the perfect activity and the perfect way to celebrate the coming New Year and. All you need to participate in this spectacular event is an “Enchanted Eve” button, included in the purchase price is all the fun you can possibly imagine!  Call 540-387-6078 www.roanokecountyva.gov/

December 31 - Jordan Springs New Year's Black Tie Dinner and Concert  - Ring in the New Year right at historic Jordan Springs this year! Wear your formal attire for this gourmet dining experience followed by a performance from Winchester Orchestra. The 40 piece top quality band will begin promptly at 9 p.m. after the meal. Visit the web site for ticket information.  (540) 667-7744.  1160 Jordan Springs Road, Stephenson.  www.HistoricJordanSprings.com