Things are Happening Again
Though COVID-19 will likely remain with us for the foreseeable future, some semblance of a new normal is emerging. It’s the summer in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, and that means events and more events!
Races and More Races
Coming up in April is the Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon – which includes a half-marathon, a 10k and of course, America’s toughest road marathon! Thousands from across the Nation race along the Blue Ridge Parkway in this marathon. The race is owned and operated by Roanoke Outside Foundation whose mission is to make outdoor activity and environmental stewardship a core component of our community’s lifestyle. Proceeds from this non-profit event benefit the parkway and local charities. The marathon is followed by Carilion Clinic IRONMAN 70.3 Virginia's Blue Ridge . A grueling swimming, biking and running competition taking place at Carvins Cove, on the Blue Ridge Parkway and in downtown Roanoke. Thousands of competitors from across the Globe participate in this event in June.
New this year, these events will be joined by the USA Cycling Amateur Road National Championship. USA Cycling recently announced that Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, with support from the City of Roanoke and Botetourt County, will host the 2022 USA Cycling Amateur Road National Championships. Several hundred athletes from all over the country will compete for a chance to earn national titles in the road race, individual time trial, and criterium. This event will take place June 29 through July 2 and along with the recent announcement of Virginia's Blue Ridge Twnety24 cycling team, helps bolster the area’s claim as the premier cycling destination on the East Coast.
Concerts and Events
Many of the above-mentioned races are accompanied by music concerts and other associated events. In addition to these, there is the Budweiser Summer Series in Downtown Roanoke, the Dr. Pepper Park at the Bridges summer concert series and various events and concerts the Berglund Center. These will be joined by Market Days Downtown each Saturday, various events at Elmwood Park and a number of events and activities at Center in the Square, the Taubman Museum of Art and the Jefferson Center. These are but a few of the events that will take place through the spring and summer here in Roanoke and the surrounding area.
Spring and summer have arrived – events are happening once again! Go Outside, get to a venue and enjoy all that Roanoke has to offer!
-Bob
