News from around the Shenandoah Valley.
Local stories, openings, festivals, and what's happening — curated by editors and gathered from trusted Valley sources.

Dolce: A New Bakery, Caffè, and Gelato Shop Coming Soon to Downtown Luray
The team behind PORCH+VINE is putting the finishing touches on Dolce — a new artisan gelato, espresso, and pastry shop on Main Street in Luray, and the website just went live.

Queen City Mischief & Magic Returns to Downtown Staunton
Mark your calendar for September 26–27, 2026 — Staunton's beloved homegrown wizarding festival is back for another weekend of low-flying owls, Quidditch matches, and Butter Brew on Beverley Street.

Staunton Cracks the Top 4 for the South's Best Culinary Town
The Queen City is officially a Local Palate Top 4 finalist for Best Culinary Town in the South — and round-two voting is open now.

Massanutten Opens 'Mountain Mayhem,' Virginia's First Alpine Coaster
Massanutten Resort's new year-round alpine coaster winds down the mountainside at up to 25 mph — the first ride of its kind in Virginia.

Blue Ridge Bud Co. Opens Trail Supply Outpost in Waynesboro
A new outdoor outfitter has opened in the historic Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace in Waynesboro — steps from the Appalachian Trail, Blue Ridge Parkway, and Skyline Drive.

New Virginia ABC Laws Just Made Life Easier for Shenandoah Valley Distilleries and Restaurants
Four alcohol-law changes took effect July 1 — doubled distillery tasting pours, a fairer MBAR ratio for restaurants, ABC-store tastings, and lighter wholesale penalties. Here's what it means for the Valley.

Elephant Head Opens in Downtown Harrisonburg on Wednesday, July 8
Chef Colin Auckerman's long-awaited new American restaurant with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern accents opens on North Liberty Street this Wednesday, serving dinner nightly from 4–10 p.m.
Rock Bottom Band plays a free show at the Front Royal gazebo this Thursday
The Blue Ridge Arts Council is bringing the Rock Bottom Band to the downtown Front Royal gazebo for a free show this Thursday evening via the Royal Examiner. It is a perfect excuse to grab a lawn chair and head to Town Commons.
Celebrating the cult following of the Roanoke Valley’s unique cheese slaw
Roanoke locals have long championed this spicy, creamy alternative to pimiento cheese. Whether served as a side or a topper for hot dogs, the regional staple is making a comeback via Cardinal News.

Billy Jack's Shack rolls out a bigger, bolder menu in downtown Harrisonburg
The downtown wing and draft spot just dropped a July menu upgrade — think a half-pound Big Iron burger, a buffalo-dill chicken sammy, wagyu sliders, and the return of their famous onion rings.
Winchester welcomes a new farmers market at Solenberger's
Solenberger’s True Value Hardware on Berryville Avenue is hosting a new weekly farmers market where you can support local growers and grab fresh produce, via The Winchester Star.
11 stories published