Louisa Saturday Sunset Market

May 2, 2026 - October 3, 2026 - 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Louisa Courthouse Square
100 Main Street

If your perfect evening includes a little live music, some local shopping, and that golden-hour glow you only get this time of year… Louisa has something new you’re going to want on your calendar.

The Town of Louisa is launching the Louisa Saturday Sunset Market, and it’s shaping up to be one of those feel-good, can’t-miss community gatherings.

It’s all happening on the lawn of the historic courthouse right on Main Street—100 West Main Street—on the first Saturday of every month from May through October, from 4 to 7 PM.

Picture this… you’re strolling through rows of local vendors, maybe you’ve got something handmade in one hand, something delicious in the other… there’s live music playing in the background, and the sun is starting to dip just enough to give everything that perfect, warm glow.

This is the kind of event that’s built for everyone. Whether you’re out with friends, bringing the family, or just looking for a laid-back way to spend your Saturday evening, there’s something here for you.

And it’s more than just a market—it’s about community. It’s neighbors catching up, local businesses getting their moment to shine, and that unmistakable small-town energy that makes Louisa so special.

If you’re a vendor or musician and want to be part of it, they’re still looking for participants—you can sign up through their interest form and get involved.

CLICK HERE FOR THE INTEREST FORM!

So grab your people, mark your calendar, and get ready to soak in those Louisa sunsets.

The Louisa Saturday Sunset Market—your new favorite way to spend a Saturday evening.

Cultivating Curiosity at Carter Mountain Orchard

June 22, 2026 - August 25, 2026 - 10:30 am - 12:00 pm at Carter Mountain Orchard
1435 Carters Mountain Trail

Looking for a fun and educational way to spend a summer morning with the kids? Carter Mountain Orchard has just the thing.

Every Monday and Tuesday throughout the summer, Carter Mountain hosts Cultivating Curiosity, a hands-on children’s program designed to spark imagination, encourage exploration, and help young learners connect with the world around them.

Perfect for children ages 3 to 8, though all ages are welcome, each session combines learning and fun in one of Central Virginia’s most beautiful settings.

Kids can enjoy storytime, create a take-home craft, and even pick their own fruit when it’s in season. Along the way, they’ll learn about topics like apples, peaches, pumpkins, flowers, bees, and other fascinating parts of life on the farm.

And because no adventure is complete without a little treat, every session also includes a snack.

Cultivating Curiosity is a great opportunity for families to spend quality time together outdoors while encouraging a love of nature, agriculture, and creativity. Whether your child is fascinated by buzzing bees, blooming flowers, or fresh-picked fruit, there’s something new to discover each week.

Sessions take place at Carter Mountain Orchard, located at 1435 Carters Mountain Trail in Charlottesville. The cost is $12 per participating child, and registration takes place on-site. Families are encouraged to arrive at least 15 minutes before the program begins to sign up.

Please note that children must be accompanied by an adult at all times, as this is not a drop-off program.

Give your little explorers a chance to learn, create, and grow this summer with Cultivating Curiosity at Carter Mountain Orchard.

Little Nature Explorers with the he Botanical Garden of the Piedmont

June 30, 2026 - August 4, 2026 - 10:00 am - 11:15 am at Botanical Garden of the Piedmont
950 Melbourne Road

If you’re looking for a fun, free way to get your little ones outside this summer, the Botanical Garden of the Piedmont has just the thing.

Every Tuesday morning from 10 until 11:15, Little Nature Explorers invites children ages 3 to 5, along with their caregivers, to discover the wonders of the natural world through hands-on learning, creativity, and outdoor adventure.

Each week features a different nature theme, giving kids something new to explore every time they visit. Upcoming topics include skinks, frogs, staying cool in summer, dragonflies, and even skunks, with every session featuring story time, a fun art activity, movement, and guided outdoor exploration through the beautiful gardens.

It’s a wonderful opportunity for children to build curiosity, strengthen their connection to nature, and enjoy meaningful time outdoors while learning about the plants and animals that call Central Virginia home.

Best of all, Little Nature Explorers is completely free. While walk-ins are welcome, organizers recommend registering (CLICK HERE) in advance so you’ll receive reminders and any weather updates. The program is only canceled for thunderstorms or high winds, so don’t let a little rain keep you away. Just grab the rain boots and a jacket, and let the adventure continue.

Little Nature Explorers takes place every Tuesday morning at the Botanical Garden of the Piedmont, located at 950 Melbourne Road in Charlottesville.

Horsemanship Camp

August 3, 2026 - August 6, 2026 - 9:00 am - 4:00 pm at Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary
2854 Byrd Mill Road

If there’s a young horse lover in your life who has never had the chance to attend a horse camp, Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary in Louisa is opening the barn doors just for them.

From August 3rd through August 6th, Serenity Farm will host a completely free Horsemanship Day Camp for kids ages 10 to 15 who love horses but have not previously had the opportunity to learn about them.

Camp runs each day from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. at 2854 Byrd Mill Road in Louisa, and lunch, snacks, and drinks will all be provided.

Over the course of the four-day camp, participants will learn how to safely interact with horses and donkeys, understand herd behavior, and explore the psychology of predator and prey. They’ll also get hands-on instruction in basic horse handling, including haltering, leading, and learning how horses move and communicate.

Campers will be introduced to in-hand and liberty work and discover how those techniques relate to training, riding, and everyday handling. There will also be an introduction to basic mounting, although organizers emphasize that this is not a traditional riding-lesson program.

And because horses have inspired artists for centuries, campers will also have the chance to explore equine art and drawing. Think of it as part classroom, part barnyard laboratory, and part creative studio, all with considerably more hay.

Space is limited, and applications are required. To request an application, send Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary a private message through Facebook or email info@serenity.horse.

That’s August 3rd through the 6th, from 9 to 4 each day, at Serenity Farm Equine Sanctuary on Byrd Mill Road in Louisa. A free opportunity for young horse lovers to learn, create, and finally get a little closer to the animals they’ve always admired.

Lunch and Learn: Caring Without Burning Out

August 11, 2026 - 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm at Brooks Family YMCA
151 McIntire Park

Caregiving comes from a place of love… but anyone who’s done it knows it can also be emotionally exhausting.

JABA in Central Virginia is inviting local caregivers to a special Lunch and Learn focused on managing the emotional weight that often comes with caring for a loved one.

The event happens Tuesday, August 11th from 12:30 until 1:30 at the Brooks Family YMCA on McIntire Park Drive in Charlottesville.

This presentation is designed to help caregivers recognize stress before it turns into burnout, frustration, or resentment. Organizers say attendees will learn healthy ways to manage emotional overload, how to ask for help without feeling guilty, and why building a dependable support system matters so much.

The session will also explore respite care options and available community resources that can help caregivers stay grounded and connected while handling the ongoing demands of caregiving.

Whether you’re caring for a parent, spouse, family member, or friend… this Lunch and Learn is meant to remind caregivers that support exists and that taking care of yourself is part of taking care of someone else.

The event is hosted by JABA in Central Virginia and takes place at the Brooks Family YMCA, located at 151 McIntire Park Drive in Charlottesville.

Learn More: 434-817-5222 or info@jabacares.org

75th Annual Brandy Station VFD Firemen’s Fair

August 12, 2026 - August 16, 2026 - 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm at Brandy Station Vol. Fire Dept. Fairgrounds
20057 Fleetwood Heights Road

If you’re looking for one of Central Virginia’s classic summer traditions, mark your calendar for the 75th Annual Brandy Station Volunteer Fire Department Firemen’s Fair, happening August 12th through the 16th at the Brandy Station Fairgrounds in Culpeper County.

For 75 years, this hometown event has brought together families, friends, and neighbors for five days packed with rides, games, food, live entertainment, and community fun. The fairgrounds will once again come alive with colorful midway rides, carnival games, delicious fair favorites, and live music every evening.

Unlimited ride specials will be available daily, with wristband nights beginning Wednesday, August 12th. Organizers are also offering discounted ride wristbands online before the fair begins, making it even easier for families to enjoy all the action.

There are plenty of special events scheduled throughout the week, including the annual parade on Thursday evening at 6:30, a tractor pull on Saturday morning at 10, and cash prize giveaways Saturday night. Whether you’re coming for the rides, the food, the music, or simply the tradition, there’s something for every age to enjoy.

The fair takes place at the Brandy Station Fairgrounds on Fleetwood Heights Road in Brandy Station, August 12th through the 16th. Proceeds help support the Brandy Station Volunteer Fire Department and the services they provide to the community throughout the year.

For schedules, ticket information, and additional details, visit bsvfd.com.

2026 Green Dogs Unleashed 5K & 10K

August 15, 2026 - 7:45 am - 10:00 am at Bryan Park
4308 Hermitage Rd.

Yard Sale and Fish Fry Fundraiser

August 29, 2026 - 7:00 am - 2:30 pm at Christ Tabernacle Church of God in Christ
489 N. WINCHESTER AVENUE

If you love a good bargain and a hot fish plate, Christ Tabernacle Church of God in Christ has your Saturday plans covered.

The church’s Public Relations Department is hosting a combined Yard Sale and Fish Fry Fundraiser on Saturday, August 29th, at 489 North Winchester Avenue in Waynesboro.

The yard sale begins bright and early at 7 a.m., so bargain hunters can get first crack at household goods, clothing, décor, and whatever other treasures may be waiting for a brand-new home. You never know what you’ll uncover when somebody else finally cleans out that closet.

Then, starting at noon, the fish fry gets sizzling. Stop by and enjoy a hot, crispy meal while supporting a great local cause. You can even do a little shopping in the morning, work up an appetite, and return for lunch. That is what we call excellent Saturday strategy.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the church’s Public Relations Department and help strengthen its communication and community outreach efforts, build relationships throughout the area, and support the work the church does for its neighbors.

To place your fish fry order in advance, call or text 540-415-0139.

Again, the Christ Tabernacle Church of God in Christ Yard Sale and Fish Fry Fundraiser is happening Saturday, August 29th, at 489 North Winchester Avenue in Waynesboro. The yard sale begins at 7 a.m., and the fish fry starts at noon.

Come hunt for a treasure, grab a crunchy bite, and help support the community while you’re there.

3rd Annual Mia Ethridge Memorial Ride

August 29, 2026 - 9:00 am - 2:00 pm at Mineral Volunteer Fire Department
201 E 1st St

If you’re looking for a meaningful ride this summer that combines community, remembrance, and a great cause, join the Leatherheads Central Virginia Chapter 29 on August 29th for the 3rd Annual Mia Ethridge Memorial Ride, honoring the memory of Mia Ethridge and supporting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

The ride honors the memory of Mia Ethridge, a firefighter whose dedication and service continue to inspire those who knew her and the community she served. Riders from across Central Virginia will gather at the Mineral Volunteer Fire Department for a day focused on remembrance, fellowship, and support for families of fallen firefighters.

Registration begins at 9 a.m., with kickstands up at 11 a.m. following a rider safety briefing. The ride will begin and end at the Mineral Volunteer Fire Department, located at 201 East First Street in Mineral.

But this event is about much more than the ride itself. Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy live music from Harmony Holler, great food, local vendors, raffles, and opportunities to connect with fellow riders and community members.

The cost is just $20 per bike, with an additional rider costing $10. Most importantly, all proceeds will benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, helping provide resources and support to the families of firefighters who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Whether you’re a rider, a supporter of the fire service, or simply someone who wants to be part of a worthwhile cause, everyone is encouraged to come out and take part in this special event.

The 3rd Annual Mia Ethridge Memorial Ride takes place Saturday, August 29th at the Mineral Volunteer Fire Department. Come help honor a hero who is gone but never forgotten, while supporting the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Back-to-School Blessing Boxes

August 29, 2026 - 1:00 pm at Maple Avenue Park
536 Maple Ave

If you’re looking for a fun way for your child to make new friends, give back to the community, and learn what Girl Scouts is all about, Girl Scout Troop 10604 is inviting families to a special Back-to-School Theme Party in Waynesboro.

The event takes place on Saturday, August 29th, 2026, beginning at 1 PM at Maple Avenue Park, located at 536 Maple Avenue in Waynesboro.

The event is designed to welcome new girls who may be interested in joining the troop. It’s an opportunity for families to learn more about Girl Scouts while enjoying an afternoon focused on friendship, creativity, and community service.

One of the featured activities will be the creation of Back-to-School Blessing Boxes. These care packages are filled with school supplies and encouraging messages to help students start the school year feeling supported and prepared. Girls attending the event will work together to assemble the boxes and help spread a little kindness throughout the community.

Families are also encouraged to contribute school supplies for the project. Needed items include pencils, pens, erasers, crayons, colored pencils, markers, notebooks, glue sticks, rulers, safety scissors, and pencil boxes or pouches. Every donation helps make the blessing boxes a little more special for local students.

Whether your child is already interested in Girl Scouts or you’re simply looking for a positive community event focused on service and friendship, this gathering offers a great way to connect with others while giving back.

The Back-to-School Theme Party with Girl Scout Troop 10604 will be held at Maple Avenue Park, located at 536 Maple Avenue in Waynesboro. Be sure to check the event page for the latest details, and come help kick off the school year with kindness, encouragement, and plenty of smiles.