
There's nothing like celebrating Independence Day in Virginia! The Commonwealth is rich in history and takes special pride in re-creating and celebrating the Fourth of July in a variety of unique and awesome ways. Here are just a few of the opportunities to explore the region and celebrate this weekend:
Friday, Jul 1, 2022
Rotary Independence Day Festival at Franklin County High School in Rocky Mount 5PM
July 4th SML Weekend & Five Shades of Gray at Gills Creek Marina & Lodge in Wirtz 6PM
Saturday, July 2, 2022
Mountain Lake Lodge Fireworks in Pembroke at 5PM
Spirit of America Independence Day Celebration at Smithfield Plantation in Blacksburg 5:30PM
Summer Music Series & Fireworks Display: The Kind at Eagle Landing in Newcastle...

There is just nothing like summer in southwest Virginia. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and lakes; people know how to create amazing experiences in the great outdoors around here. I have put together a few great opportunities to get you started this summer!
For the water lovers….
Adventure Center Weekend at Wilderness Landing, June 24-26th
Roots Reggae Pool Party and Retreat at Apple Ridge Farm, June 25th Noon-2AM
Tube the Roanoke River with Roanoke Mountain Adventures, Daily
Paddleboard, Ski, Boat, and More with Roanoke Outside Foundation
For the beer & wine crowd….
Father's Day Weekend!
There is no better place to be than southwest Virginia on Father's Day Weekend. From Antique Tractor Shows to Famous Chicken Sandwiches and Baseball, the Roanoke Valley has a little bit of everything!
FRIDAY
Southwest Virginia Antique Farm Days at Franklin County Recreation Park
2150 Sontag Road, Rocky Mount, VA from 8AM-5PM
Salem Red Sox Home Series vs. Delmarva: 90's Night 1004 Texas Street, Salem at 7PM
SATURDAY
Breakfast with the Animals at Mill Mountain Zoo in Roanoke from 8:30-10:30AM
Southwest Virginia Antique Farm Days at Franklin County Recreation Park 2150 Sontag Road, Rocky Mount, VA from 8AM-5PM
Juneteenth Celebration with Queen Vegan's Famous "Chicken" Sandwiches at Eureka Park from Noon to 3PM
Summe...

Bees aren't kittens. Some of us shiver in fear when one buzzes in our ear! They're not really cuddly or funny, though some could argue that they are cute.
By now, we all know that pollinators are in decline due to habitat loss, invasive species, pesticides, and predators. But these little workers fertilize plants to form seeds, berries, fruit, and other plant food that we absolutely love.
Here are a few ways that you can support the pollinators in your community!
Let's face it, we're all busy. Almost everyone I talk to has a full to-do list and struggles to find time to stop and smell the roses. But, what good are the roses if we never take time to appreciate them? Create some space in your day and inside or outside of your home (or both!) to simply enjoy the moment.
Do you have a space inside or outside of your home where you can set aside your day to truly relax and be still? What it looks like for one person might be completely different than for another. Whether it's a den, a sunroom, a garden, a deck, or a zen zone; you can create indoor and outdoor spaces that allow you to unwind and relax.

Some things to consider: