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.
Music & Mindfulness Program- Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges
June 14, 2026 - June 22, 2026 - All Day at Graves Mountain Farm and Lodges
225 Graves Mountain Ln
If you know a talented young musician in Central Virginia, here’s an incredible opportunity coming up this summer in Madison County.
The Music & Mindfulness program is returning to Graves Mountain Farm & Lodges in Syria, Virginia, running Sunday, June 14th through Monday, June 22nd.
This eight-day overnight program is sponsored by the Blue Ridge Center for Music & Creative Arts in collaboration with Music & Mindfulness, a Pennsylvania-based nonprofit organization. The program gives advanced high school orchestral and vocal students a powerful opportunity to expand their musical abilities while also connecting with nature and learning mindfulness techniques that help build focus, confidence, and resilience.
Throughout the week, students receive one-on-one instruction, participate in small group and chamber music sessions, and rehearse for orchestral and choir performances. They’ll also explore new styles of music through introductory workshops in genres like jazz and bluegrass, and take part in lively jam sessions and collaborative concerts.
But the experience goes beyond music. Students will also practice mindfulness techniques designed to reduce stress and strengthen the mind-body connection. The schedule includes activities like yoga, meditation, nature walks, swimming, horseback riding, campfires, karaoke, and more — all set in the beautiful surroundings of Madison County.
Even more impressive, every student attends on a full scholarship, with instruction, meals, and lodging all covered. That’s made possible through the mission of the Blue Ridge Center for Music and Creative Arts and the generosity of community supporters who help ensure no talented student is left behind due to family income.
Students interested in attending must submit an application, and community members who would like to support the next generation of musicians and artists are encouraged to donate to help keep the program thriving.
You can learn more or make a contribution by visiting blueridgecenterarts.com or by mailing donations directly to the Blue Ridge Center for Music & Creative Arts in Madison.
Calvary Chapel Charlottesville VBS
June 21, 2026 - June 25, 2026 - 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm at Calvary Chapel Charlottesville
1284 Sunset Ave Ext
Looking for a fun, faith-filled way for the kids to spend part of their summer? Calvary Chapel Charlottesville is getting ready to launch its Vacation Bible School, “Illumination Station,” happening Sunday, June 21st through Thursday, June 25th.
Designed for preschool children age 4 through kids who’ve completed 5th grade, Illumination Station promises five evenings packed with music, games, Bible lessons, activities, and plenty of summertime fun… all centered around shining a little extra light into the world around us.
Each evening kicks off at 5:45 and wraps up around 8:30, making it a perfect after-work and after-camp option for families across Central Virginia. And parents, one less thing to worry about: dinner will be served every night for all registered children.
Organizers say the goal is to create a warm, welcoming environment where kids can learn, laugh, make friends, and enjoy an unforgettable week together during what they’re calling “the brightest week of the year.”
Again, that’s Illumination Station Vacation Bible School at Calvary Chapel Charlottesville, happening June 21st through the 25th for ages 4 through completed 5th grade.
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.
HAM Radio Field Day
June 27, 2026 - June 28, 2026 - All Day at Curtis Memorial Park
18 Fairway Drive
What happens when the power goes out, cell towers stop working, and the internet disappears?
For thousands of amateur radio operators across the country, that’s exactly the kind of challenge they’ve been preparing for.
The Rappahannock Valley Amateur Radio Club is inviting the public to experience Amateur Radio Field Day on Saturday and Sunday, June 27th and 28th at Curtis Memorial Park in Stafford County.
Field Day is a nationwide event that brings together HAM radio operators to practice the skills and communication techniques that can become critical during emergencies, severe weather, and natural disasters. It’s part training exercise, part community event, and part friendly competition as operators attempt to make radio contacts with stations across the country and around the world.
You may be surprised to learn that local amateur radio volunteers regularly provide communications support for community events throughout the Fredericksburg region, including many area races and public gatherings. During Field Day, they’ll be setting up temporary radio stations, testing equipment, and demonstrating how radio operators can stay connected when traditional communication systems aren’t available.
Visitors are encouraged to stop by, ask questions, and even get behind the microphone themselves. You might make a contact with someone hundreds or even thousands of miles away using nothing more than radio waves and a little curiosity.
Whether you’re interested in technology, emergency preparedness, public service, or you’re simply looking for something unique to do with the family, organizers say there’s plenty to see and learn.
The event is sponsored by the Rappahannock Valley Amateur Radio Club and sanctioned by the ARRL, the national association for amateur radio.
Field Day takes place rain or shine, day and night, June 27th and 28th at Curtis Memorial Park in Stafford County.
Because when all else fails, communication still matters.
Guilty Pleasures Snack Festival
June 27, 2026 - June 28, 2026 - 10:00 am - 5:00 pm at Fredericksburg Convention Center
2371 Carl D. Silver Parkway
The Guilty Pleasures Snack Festival is bringing a weekend full of sweet and savory indulgence to the Fredericksburg Convention Center on June 27th and 28th.
The festival is a celebration of all things salty, sweet, and over-the-top delicious, featuring bakeries, candy makers, gourmet snack creators, dessert artisans, and specialty food brands from across the region. Guests can explore aisles packed with decadent baked goods, handcrafted chocolates, gourmet popcorn, loaded desserts, savory snacks, and unique foodie creations not typically found in big-box stores.
Designed for food lovers and snack enthusiasts alike, the Guilty Pleasures Snack Festival gives attendees the opportunity to discover new treats, support local makers and small businesses, meet vendors, enjoy samples throughout the event, and shop for take-home favorites.
The event runs from 10 AM until 5 PM both days at the Fredericksburg Convention Center, located at 2371 Carl D. Silver Parkway in Fredericksburg.
General Admission tickets are available for $9.43 including fees. Discounted tickets for seniors, active or retired military, and first responders are available for $8.38 including fees.
Whether you love gourmet sweets, salty snacks, baked treats, or discovering new local food creators, the Guilty Pleasures Snack Festival promises a full day of indulgent fun for every kind of foodie.
James Madison VFW Post 2217 Celebrates the 250th Birthday of Our Great Nation
June 27, 2026 - 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm at James Madison VFW Post 2217
19105 Brick Church Road
Looking for a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday? Then make plans to head to Orange County on Saturday, June 27th for a community celebration hosted by the James Madison VFW Post 2217 in Orange.
The VFW is inviting veterans, active service members, their families, and the general public to come together for an afternoon of food, fellowship, and patriotic spirit as the nation marks this historic milestone. Organizers say the event is completely free to attend, although donations will be welcomed to help support the VFW and its ongoing efforts for veterans and the community.
The celebration runs from noon until 4 PM at the James Madison VFW Post 2217, located at 19105 Brick Church Road in Orange. Guests can enjoy classic barbecue favorites including hot dogs, hamburgers, and more while spending the afternoon honoring the people and history that helped shape the country over the last 250 years.
Whether you’re a veteran, a military family, or just somebody looking to celebrate with neighbors and friends, everyone is welcome to stop by, grab a plate, and enjoy the afternoon.
Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with the James Madison VFW Post 2217 in Orange!
The Foundry at Basic City Beer Company – Make Room at the Table
June 28, 2026 - 3:00 pm - 8:00 pm at The Foundry at Basic City Beer Company
1010 East Main Street
If you’re looking for a great way to enjoy some live music while supporting a cause that directly helps families right here in our region, mark your calendar for Sunday, June 28th.
The Foundry at Basic City Beer Company in Waynesboro is hosting Make Room at the Table, a special fundraiser benefiting River City Bread Basket, a program of The Lifeworks Project that works to combat food insecurity throughout our community.
The event runs from 3 until 8 PM and is built around a simple but powerful message: there’s always room for one more at the table, and together we can help make sure no one in our community goes hungry.
Guests can enjoy an afternoon of outstanding local music featuring Kai Crowe-Getty at 4 PM, the Jen Tal Band at 5:15, and SKANK taking the stage at 6:30.
Doors open at 3 PM at The Foundry, located inside Basic City Beer Company on East Main Street in Waynesboro.
Admission is donation-based, making it easy for everyone to participate. Give what you can, knowing that every contribution helps support meals, resources, and assistance for neighbors facing food insecurity. QR codes will be available throughout the venue for convenient digital donations, and a traditional cash donation box will also be available.
Whether you’re able to give a little or a lot, simply showing up helps raise awareness and support for an important mission that impacts lives across our area.
So come out on Sunday, June 28th, enjoy some fantastic local music, connect with friends and neighbors, and help Make Room at the Table for those who need it most.
50th Anniversary of the Downtown Mall
July 3, 2026 - 10:00 am - 10:00 pm at The Downtown Mall
700 E Main St
If you’ve spent any time in Charlottesville, chances are you’ve made memories on the Downtown Mall. Maybe it was dinner with friends, a concert at Ting Pavilion, shopping, a festival, or just a stroll along those iconic brick walkways.
Well this summer, Charlottesville’s Downtown Mall is celebrating a major milestone. On Friday, July 3rd, the Downtown Mall turns 50 years old, and the community is invited to an all-day birthday celebration marking five decades as the heart of the city.
The festivities begin at 10 o’clock in the morning with a historical walking tour led by the Albemarle Charlottesville Historical Society. Throughout the day, visitors can also explore special exhibits looking back at Charlottesville in the 1970s.
At 4 PM, the Birthday Bash kicks off at Central Place with free ice cream, family-friendly activities, and live entertainment. Then at 5:30, Fridays After Five gets a special anniversary edition as local favorite Baaba Seth takes the stage at the Ting Pavilion.
As the sun sets, the celebration becomes even more magical. At 8:30 PM, community members carrying handmade lanterns will march through the Downtown Mall in a glowing lantern parade along the historic bricks.
Then at 9 PM, the evening concludes with ECHOES: 50 Years of the Charlottesville Downtown Mall, a one-night-only light projection created by local artist Jeff Dobrow. Historic photographs and stories will come alive across the facade of the CODE Building, transforming Charlottesville’s history into a stunning public art experience.
It’s a day of music, history, art, and community celebrating one of Charlottesville’s most treasured landmarks. CLICK HERE for the complete schedule, lantern parade information, and workshop registration details.
4th Annual Independence Day Celebration at Southern Revere Cellars
July 3, 2026 - 4:00 pm - 10:30 pm at Southern Revere Cellars
1100 E Jack Jouett Rd
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with an afternoon and evening of family-friendly fun at Southern Revere Cellars in Louisa. The 4th Annual Independence Day Celebration returns Friday, July 3rd, featuring live music, food trucks, local vendors, activities for all ages, and a professional fireworks show at dark, all while helping raise money for veteran charities.
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with an afternoon and evening packed with family-friendly fun at Southern Revere Cellars in Louisa on Friday, July 3rd from 4 PM until dark.
This annual celebration features beer, wine, food trucks, local vendors, games, live music, and a professional fireworks show, while helping raise money for veteran charities. The Steel Warriors Motorcycle Club will once again assist with parking and event support.
- Admission & Parking
Early bird parking passes are available through July 2nd for $10 per vehicle. Parking purchased at the gate on July 3rd will be $20 per vehicle, with cash encouraged for faster entry.
A limited number of VIP Tailgate Parking Passes are available, offering prime gravel lot access and a faster exit after the fireworks. Organizers encourage guests to purchase parking passes in advance, as attendance is limited and entry may be cut off once capacity is reached.
General parking will be located in grassy fields. Shuttle service will be available, and a limited number of closer parking spaces are reserved for guests with official handicap tags or plates, though availability cannot be guaranteed.
- Activities & Entertainment
Festivities throughout the day include:
- Flag presentation
- Watermelon eating contest at 5 PM with separate kid and adult heats and prizes
- Face painting
- Bounce houses
- Cornhole
- Can Jam
- Free mobile golf trailer experience from Power Play
- Puff Away Cigar Lounge
- On-site flash tattoos from Brass Monkey Tattooz
- Additional activities to be announced
- Vendor Market
A vendor market will run from 4 PM until 8 PM and feature a variety of local businesses and artisans, including baked goods, candles, crafts, fishing products, outdoor gear, boutiques, woodworking, and more.
- Live Music
Richmond-area band Superglide RVA will perform live from 6 PM until 9 PM.
- Fireworks
The evening concludes with a professional 15-minute fireworks show beginning at dark, approximately 9:15 to 9:30 PM.
- Food & Drinks
Guests can enjoy a wide variety of food and beverage options from:
- From the Farm BBQ
- River City Wood Fire Pizza
- Crozet Seafood
- CubaMex
- Dreamsicle Ice Cream Truck
- A&K Sips & Bites
- Event Guidelines
Guests are welcome to bring folding chairs and blankets. Pop-up tents are not permitted. Outside alcohol and large coolers are prohibited.
For safety reasons, the main entrance will be restricted during the fireworks show and may close no later than 8 PM or when parking reaches capacity. Organizers recommend arriving early to enjoy the full event.
Because of the fireworks, guests are encouraged to leave pets at home.
- Event Location
Southern Revere Cellars
1100 East Jack Jouett Road
Louisa, Virginia
The 4th Annual Independence Day Celebration is presented by Dark Horse Lawn Mowing, Local Eats, Visit Louisa, Woodard Properties, and Rappahannock Electric Cooperative.
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