Did anyone on Mt Tabor Rd hear an explosion last night? I’m 1 1/2 miles from Main St on Mt Tabor. It even woke my dog up!

New to the area, looking for a new Dentist and a new PCP. Any suggestions appreciated 🙂

More than 40 kids attended last month’s camp, which is part of the Virginia Association of First Responders’ efforts to bolster fire and rescue recruitment efforts.

The new Cardinal News staff include four reporters, an editor, and people experienced in fundraising, administration and community engagement.

The presidential search committee meets again Tuesday. Here are some things the members ought to be asking, if they aren’t already.

Hey I can sublease my room for fall 2026, for 600/month including utllities,

You get a standing desk, closet, a mattress, one FREE parking space. TV and couch in the living room with it. Let me know if you'd be interested.

Any recommendations on good coffee shops with solid iced coffee? I’m not a cold brew fan, so would love recommendations of shops with good coffee!

Are there people in this group with a Boston Terrier that would like to meet up? I’ve always wanted to participate in a Boston meet up or as I’ve seen them called “Boston Tea Parties” 😂 I have a 13 year old Boston Terrier and I’ve always wanted her to meet other Bostons!

For those looking for fun this weekend (7/18 & 7/19) in Blacksburg and the NRV, here's 26 local events you can enjoy with many of them having no admission charge.

Weekend Rundown of Fun:
1. 2026 Snowville Volunteer Fire Department Craft Show and BBQ Dinner
Snowville Volunteer Fire Department, Hiwassee
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Craft Show Admission: Free, Dinner: $12.00
The Snowville Volunteer Fire Department is hosting its annual community fundraiser featuring a craft show with regional vendors, face painting, and hourly door prizes. A complete BBQ or hotdog dinner will be served from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with all event proceeds directly benefiting the fire department.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938311

2. Summer Health Fair 2026
Blacksburg Boxing and Fitness, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Admission: Free
Join Blacksburg Boxing for a fun, family-friendly day focused on health, wellness, community, and local businesses right here in the New River Valley. Blacksburg Boxing is bringing together 20+ amazing local vendors from across our community for a free event designed to help you discover ways to improve your health, support local businesses, and connect with others in the area. There will be free subs from Hokie House Sub Shop while supplies last, giveaways, local resources, special offers, and more.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=926183

3. Two Day Reptile Sale & Expo
Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke
Saturday, July 18, 2026 and , 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM,
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM,
Admission: Free
The Mountain Lake Conservancy Reptile Expo & Sale invites guests to explore a diverse variety of reptiles and learn educational facts from expert presenters in a relaxed outdoor atmosphere. The two-day event features regional vendors with reptiles available for purchase and is open to both lodging guests and day visitors.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938232

4. America's 250th Celebration with Patrick Henry
Warm Hearth Village Center, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 1:00 - 2:30 PM
Admission: Free
Warm Hearth Village hosts a historic patriotic celebration featuring a presentation of the famous "Liberty or Death" speech by Patrick Henry's fifth great-grandson, Patrick Henry Jolly. The event also includes local Revolutionary War history discussions led by the Daughters of the American Revolution, music by the HearthSong Singers, and complimentary cake and refreshments.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937538

5. July Genealogy Saturday
Alexander Black House & Cultural Center, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Admission: Free
The Alexander Black House & Cultural Center hosts its monthly session where ancestry experts provide free research assistance to help attendees explore their family trees. Visitors can come with specific historical questions or simply start their genealogical journey from scratch.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=926525

6. Play: The Novelist by Theresa Rebeck
Theatre 101, Virginia Tech
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 2:00 - 4:00 PM and 7:00 - 9:00 PM,
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Admission: Free
Virginia Tech and the Town of Blacksburg’s 2026 Summer Arts Festival proudly presents the play "The Novelist" by Theresa Rebeck, directed by Robyn Berg, with three performances. This delicious play by writer for stage and screen Theresa Rebeck, is an intelligent and funny ensemble drama. A family of artists are both cruelly destructive and fiercely protective of one another. Performances feature a cast and crew of both the Virginia Tech community and greater community, reflecting the festival’s emphasis on collaboration and uplifting local artistic talent.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=926348

7. 2026 Open House at Mountain Lake Biological Station
Mountain Lake Biological Station, Pembroke
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
The Mountain Lake Biological Station hosts its Annual Open House on Salt Pond Mountain, offering a close-up look at local research on native plants, animals, and fungi. This family-friendly event invites visitors to tour scientific laboratories, explore art studios, take guided nature walks, and interact directly with resident scientists and artists. Due to active research and wildlife on the station property, personal dogs are strictly prohibited, and carpooling is highly encouraged due to limited parking.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937501

8. Leslie Brooks in Concert
White Dog Winery, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 2:00 - 4:00 PM
Admission: Free
White Dog Winery hosts seasoned singer-songwriter and guitarist Leslie Brooks for an intimate live performance. Attendees will enjoy her eclectic, storytelling musical style that spans jazz, country blues, soulful ballads, folk, and Americana favorites.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937522

9. Free Movie: Lilo & Stitch
Pulaski Theatre, Pulaski
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 2:00 - 3:30 PM and 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Admission: Free
Sponsored by the Ruritan Road Ruritan Club, the historic Pulaski Theatre will host two free community screenings of Disney's classic 2002 animated family adventure "Lilo & Stitch." Affordable snacks and drinks will be available at the concessions stand to support the local theater.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938317

10. Craft: Pocket Dino Pets for Ages 9 & Up
Christiansburg Library, Christiansburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 3:00 - 4:00 PM
Admission: Free
Create your own pocket pet using materials provided. Choose a dinosaur and create their home however you want. Recommended for ages 9 & up.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938316

11. Paws & Prizes: Lucky Numbers Night
Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 4:00 - 8:00 PM
Admission: Free
Mountain Lake Lodge hosts a charitable evening by the Salt Pond starting with a "Pups at the Pub" adoptable dog meet-and-greet, followed by multi-round Lucky Numbers drawings for local gift cards. Event game card sales cost $5.00 per pack, with 100% of the proceeds directly supporting the rescue operations of Little Big Dog Rescue.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938208

12. July Flashlight Tour
St. Albans, Radford
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 4:30 - 6:30 PM
Admission: $20.00
St. Albans Sanatorium hosts a guided evening flashlight tour blending regional history with chilling paranormal tales from its 120-year-old walls. Participants must be at least 16 years old, are required to wear closed-toe shoes, and should bring their own flashlight to navigate the dark, un-climate-controlled halls. Tickets must be purchased in advance and a limited number are still available.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=927212

13. July Bingo Night
Radford Coffee Company, Radford
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Admission: Free
Radford Coffee Company invites the community out for its monthly family-friendly bingo night. It is completely free to play, offers chances to win prizes, and features the shop's full selection of signature drinks and food items.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937439

14. Palmyra in Concert
Dire Wolf Disc Golf, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 5:30 - 9:30 PM
Admission: $20.00
Dire Wolf Disc Golf presents an intimate, outdoor evening of live music featuring the acclaimed progressive Appalachian folk trio Palmyra. Attendees are welcome to bring their own blankets, chairs, food, and beverages to enjoy the band's rich three-part harmonies and string fusion instrumentation.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=927026

15. Bike4Alz Night
PK's Bar & Grill, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Admission: Free
PK's Bar & Grill hosts a special fundraising event on the back deck welcoming the 2026 Bike4Alz cross-country cycling team as they arrive in Blacksburg after starting in San Francisco, California. Community members are invited to meet the collegiate riders, share their personal stories, and donate directly to help the non-profit organization reach its $150,000 Alzheimer's research goal.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=926360

16. Septapus in Concert
Rising Silo Farm Brewery, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 6:00 - 9:00 PM
Admission: Free
Septapus is an original rock, jazz, funk and fusion band composed of several folks who like Blacksburg, Virginia too much to leave. The music of Septapus is best described as the partially fermented residue of a collision between the Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Mothers of Invention en route to a Jethro Tull concert in honor of the Ramones.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937561

17. Family Friendly Magic & Comedy Show with Joseph Young
Rock House Marina, Pulaski
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
Admission: Free
Rock House Marina hosts its 2nd annual waterfront comedy and illusion show featuring award-winning Christian magician Joseph Young. The family-friendly performance is completely clean, highly interactive, and free for all ages to attend.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938314

18. Movie Night at The Barn with the Horses featuring "Spirit"
Snider Farms Equine LLC, Blacksburg
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 7:00 - 8:30 PM
Admission: $12.00
Snider Farms Equine LLC invites families to a unique indoor arena movie night to watch the animated adventure film "Spirit Untamed" alongside the horses in the barn. Complimentary popcorn and water are provided, and attendees should call ahead to RSVP and bring their own lawn chairs or blankets.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938309

19. Summer Music in the Garden with Jimothy
Brick House Pizza, Radford
Saturday, July 18, 2026, 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Admission: Free
Brick House Pizza's outdoor music series continues with a live performance by Jimothy, a popular multi-genre band based in the New River Valley. Fronted by singer-guitarist Jim Bohon, the group delivers an upbeat show reflecting their deep passion for live performance.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937412

20. Tactical Forest Laser Tag Club at Virginia Tech's Sunday Battle
Pandapas Pond, Blacksburg
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
The Tactical Forest Laser Tag Club at Virginia Tech hosts an immersive afternoon of outdoor tactical laser tag games in the woods of Pandapas Pond. This beginner-friendly, adult-oriented (18+) event provides standard equipment for players and emphasizes team strategy, movement, and outdoor exercise.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937568

21. Class: Introduction to West Coast Swing Dancing
1711 North Main Building (Bell Electric), Blacksburg
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 2:00 - 3:30 PM
$15.00 per class or a special intro package of $40.00 for all three classes
Dance With Lane hosts the second installment of a three-part introductory dance series focusing on West Coast Swing. Participants will learn the core foundations of this constantly evolving, contemporary partner dance style in a social and active learning environment.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937510

22. Sunday Afternoon Music with Jim Korb
New River Vineyard & Winery, Fairlawn
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 2:00 - 5:00 PM
Admission: Free
New River Vineyard & Winery hosts acoustic guitarist Jim Korb for a relaxing afternoon performance. Guests can bring blankets or lawn chairs to enjoy a mix of classic country, classic rock, and blues covers alongside handcrafted wines, beer, and frozen wine slushies.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938308

23. Ice Cream Social with Artist Starroot
Floyd Country Store, Floyd
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 3:00 - 6:00 PM
Admission: Free
The Floyd Country Store hosts a community ice cream social at its old-fashioned soda fountain to celebrate a new gallery art opening. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the featured local artist, Starroot, while enjoying a free single scoop of ice cream alongside complimentary coffee and tea.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938319

24. Jonah Carden in Concert
Rock House Marina, Pulaski
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 3:00 - 6:00 PM
Admission: Free
Rock House Marina hosts acoustic blues-rock musician Jonah Carden for a live performance. The experienced West Virginia songwriter will deliver a dynamic solo performance showcasing a unique sound that blends classic blues, folk, rock, grunge, and jazz.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937521

25. New River Blues Society presents the Reverend Billy C. Wirtz
Pulaski Theatre, Pulaski
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 4:00 - 7:00 PM
Advance Tickets: $10.00, At the Door: $15.00
The New River Blues Society presents Reverend Billy C. Wirtz at the historic Pulaski Theatre. This unique, R-rated live performance masterfully blends high-energy boogie-woogie piano playing with outrageous social comedy and musical storytelling.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=938307

26. Dean Trimble in Concert
Palisades Restaurant, Eggleston
Sunday, July 19, 2026, 5:00 - 7:30 PM
Admission: Free
The Palisades Restaurant hosts a live dinner concert featuring New River Valley acoustic musician Dean Trimble. Guests can enjoy fine dining while listening to a classic selection of 1970s and 80s soft rock favorites alongside traditional country music covers.
Link: http://www.nextthreedays.com/FeaturedEventDetails.cfm?E=937451

For all the weekend events, check out:
• http://www.nextthreedays.com/featuredevents.cfm

Thanks for reading and have a great weekend! Sorry for the late post, just got back into town late last night.

Incoming transfer student to vtech (female) from MD, looking for a sublease with other females (not a need, if there’s a single person unit then that’s fine too). Budget is 500-800. I don’t have pets but I don’t mind if others have them (willing to take care of your pets for you too). Would prefer to have a tour first around and move-in by 15th august :)

I’m respectful to personal spaces.

The Department of Enviromental Qualilty has issued an Air Quality Alert for most of the state as far west as the Roanoke Valley, as unhealthy levels of smoke are expected to reach the surface on this Friday.

Please recommend best places to go watch the World Cup Final on Sunday, with the game sound on, of course. Thank you!

Need help navigating a tough talk with your employees? Researchers are developing an AI training tool that offers coaching and customizable scenarios.

First off, I'm from Louisiana, haven't been to Virginia at all, but I'm excited to be taking a huge first step. I'm nervous about it! But I'm here to embrace the change, my job is in Blacksburg, what's renting like? What should I know moving there

Hello!

I'm currently applying for a job at Virginia Tech and was hoping to hear from people who live in Ithaca about what it's like as a young professional (late 20s/early 30s).

I'm especially curious about the social side of life. How easy is it to make friends outside of work? Are there organizations, clubs, sports leagues, volunteering, or other ways to meet people around this age? What's the dating scene like?

I'm a little concerned because it's such a college town. I currently live in another college town, and one challenge I've found is that a lot of social opportunities are geared either toward undergraduate students or families, which can make it harder to find a community of other young professionals.

I'm not too worried about nightlife or bars. I care much more about building a social circle and finding a community.

I'd love to hear any honest thoughts or experiences, especially from people who have lived there in their late 20s or early 30s. Thanks! 😊

If there are any parents of elementary-aged kids here, you may be interested in this petition that’s circulating about technology usage in MCPS schools for the youngest grades: https://www.fournorms.com/campaigns/petition-for-intentional-technology-use-in-mcps-schools