Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings Showcase Returns This September
Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings Showcase Returns This September
Planning your dream wedding starts here! The Central + Southwest Virginia Weddings Showcase returns on Sunday, September 20, 2026, bringing together the region’s premier wedding professionals for an afternoon filled with inspiration, expert advice, and everything you need to plan your perfect day.
Originally scheduled for the spring, the showcase has been rescheduled to September 20 to deliver an even more dynamic experience during engagement season. Whether you’re newly engaged or putting the finishing touches on your wedding plans, this is the perfect opportunity to connect with local vendors and discover the latest trends in the wedding industry.
From stunning venues and talented photographers to florists, entertainment, caterers, planners, décor specialists, honeymoon experts, and more, you’ll have the chance to meet the professionals who can help bring your vision to life—all in one place.
Throughout the afternoon, guests can enjoy live entertainment, gather ideas for every aspect of their celebration, and enter for the chance to win exciting giveaways from participating vendors.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2026 Time: 1–4 p.m. Location: Tresca on 8th, 724 Commerce St., Lynchburg, VA 24504
Attention lawyers in the greater Roanoke and Lynchburg areas – nominate a top lawyer today!
How do you define a top-level attorney?
While a substantial number of wins or taking on high-profile cases can earn you recognition, it’s a lawyer’s reputation—both inside and outside of the courtroom—that really sets them apart.
This year The Roanoker is teaming up with our sister magazines of Lynchburg Living and Lynchburg Business, as well as our partners at DataJoe Research Company, to bring you the Top Lawyers of Greater Lynchburg and Roanoke Valley 2027. This is a peer-to-peer survey—the lawyers included on this list were nominated by fellow lawyers, which speaks volumes about their integrity and professionalism.
Results will be published in the Jan./Feb. 2027 issues of Lynchburg Living and The Roanoker magazine, as well as the January 2027 issue of Lynchburg Business.
2026 Best Of Hall Of Fame Winners
Earning a Best of Lynchburg award should be celebrated, and earning this recognition year after year earns a business a spot in the Hall of Fame.
To place in our Best Of Lynchburg Hall of Fame, a business, person, or place needs to have won a gold level award in a particular category for the majority of the years since VistaMedia first launched the contest in 2014.
Flip through to see who is the best of the best in the region!
(Voting for the 2027 Best Of Lynchburg Awards begins July 25 on LynchburgLiving.com. Look for those winners in the January/February issue of Lynchburg Living!)
Nominate a Champion: 2026 Lynchburg Living Community Champions
Every day, individuals across our community dedicate their time, talents, and passion to making Lynchburg a better place to live. Whether through advocacy, volunteerism, nonprofit leadership, education, healthcare, mentorship, or community service, these local champions work tirelessly to uplift others and create meaningful change.
Lynchburg Living is proud to recognize these extraordinary individuals through our 2026 Community Champions program. This recognition celebrates those who go above and beyond to strengthen our community, support those in need, and make a lasting impact on the lives of others.
Do you know someone whose dedication deserves to be recognized? We invite you to nominate the individuals who inspire, serve, and lead by example. Help us honor the people whose efforts make Lynchburg a stronger, more compassionate, and more connected community.
Submit your nomination today and help us celebrate the champions who make a difference every day.
How Virginia’s revolutionary thinkers helped shape a nation—and left their mark on Central Virginia
Before there was a United States, there was an idea.
The belief that people possessed inherent rights.
That governments derived their authority from the consent of the governed. That liberty was not a privilege granted by a king, but a natural condition of humankind.
These principles, which would become the foundation of the Declaration of Independence and later the Constitution, did not emerge from Philadelphia alone. They were debated, refined, and championed by a remarkable group of Virginia thinkers whose influence helped shape the course of a nation.
As America prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary in 2026, Virginia’s role in the birth of those ideals remains impossible to overlook. And while Lynchburg itself would not be incorporated until 1786—ten years after the Declaration of Independence—the region bears the imprint of the people and ideas that transformed a collection of colonies into a republic.
Among the most influential was Thomas Jefferson.
Born in Albemarle County and educated in Williamsburg, Jefferson drew heavily from Enlightenment philosophers when drafting the Declaration of Independence in 1776. His famous assertion that “all men are created equal” and possess “unalienable Rights” distilled a growing belief that legitimate government existed to protect individual liberty rather than preserve inherited power.
Today, visitors can explore Jefferson’s connection to the region at Poplar Forest, his retreat home in Bedford County. Though constructed after the Revolution, the villa reflects the intellectual curiosity and classical ideals that defined Jefferson’s worldview. The property offers a tangible connection to one of America’s most influential political philosophers and provides insight into the man whose words helped articulate the nation’s founding principles.
Jefferson was not alone in shaping revolutionary thought.
Nearly a month before the Declaration of Independence was adopted, George Mason authored the Virginia Declaration of Rights. Ratified in June 1776, the document asserted that all people possessed inherent rights, including freedom of the press, religious liberty, and protections against government overreach. Historians widely regard Mason’s work as a direct influence on Jefferson’s Declaration and, later, the U.S. Bill of Rights.
If Jefferson gave eloquent voice to the Revolution’s ideals, Patrick Henry supplied its fire.
A gifted orator and fierce advocate for independence, Henry became one of the most recognizable figures of the Revolutionary era through his impassioned speeches against British rule. His declaration, “Give me liberty, or give me death!” remains among the most famous lines in American history.
Henry’s legacy is preserved at Red Hill, his final home and burial site in Charlotte County, less than an hour from Lynchburg. Overlooking the Staunton River, the property serves as a reminder that the fight for independence was not merely waged in distant capitals but was deeply rooted in the communities and landscapes of Virginia.
Another Virginian would help ensure that the ideals of the Revolution endured beyond independence.
Often called the “Father of the Constitution,” James Madison spent much of his life wrestling with a difficult question: How could a government protect liberty without becoming a threat to liberty itself?
Madison’s contributions to the Constitution and the Federalist Papers helped establish a framework of checks and balances that continues to shape American government today. His later advocacy for the Bill of Rights ensured that many of the freedoms first articulated by Mason and Jefferson became protected under federal law.
Taken together, these men represented more than a collection of prominent Virginians. They were participants in a broader intellectual movement inspired by Enlightenment thinkers who emphasized reason, individual rights, and self-government. Their ideas helped transform colonial grievances into a coherent philosophy—one that continues to influence democratic societies around the world.
For Lynchburg and Central Virginia, these stories are not distant history.
The roads, rivers, and communities that surround the city formed part of the landscape where revolutionary ideas took root and spread. The region’s proximity to sites such as Poplar Forest and Red Hill offers residents and visitors an opportunity to explore the people behind the principles that shaped the nation.
As Virginia commemorates the semiquincentennial, it is worth remembering that the American Revolution was not solely a military conflict. It was also a revolution of ideas.
Those ideas were debated in Virginia homes, written into Virginia documents, and championed by Virginia voices. They would eventually find expression in the Declaration of Independence and become the foundation of a new nation.
Two hundred and fifty years later, their influence remains all around us—not only in the historic sites that preserve their stories, but in the enduring belief that liberty, equality, and self-government are ideals worth pursuing.
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a spectacular event on Friday, July 3rd from 8:00 pm to 10:30 pm at Appomattox County High School, featuring a breathtaking 300-drone light show that will paint the sky with patriotic imagery including waving American flags, soaring eagles, and the stars and stripes in stunning aerial choreography, followed by a dazzling fireworks display that will light up the night in a brilliant tribute to our nation’s enduring spirit of freedom and unity.
Independence Day Celebration at Poplar Forest
July 4, 2026 – 10 a.m.
Thomas Jefferson held July 4th as “the only birthday I ever commemorate…” Bring your family and friends out to Poplar Forest, his Bedford County retreat, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in historic style. Enjoy colonial-style entertainment, demonstrations by colonial artisans and craftspeople, archaeological displays, old-fashioned children’s activities, a reading of the Declaration of Independence at 1:30 p.m. and more. Tickets are $15/person ages 16+, under 16 are free. House Tours available for a reduced rate of $10 ages 18+, $7/ages 6-17, and free under 6.
Appomattox Liberty Golf Classic
July 10, 2026 – 8 a.m.
Experience Appomattox is proud to present the inaugural Appomattox Liberty Golf Classic: Where History Meets the Fairway. Join them for this premier event celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary in one of the nation’s most historic communities. Experience a unique 18-hole golf tournament at Falling River Golf Club alongside a continental breakfast to kick off the day. A ceremonial presentation of the colors by historical reenactors will take place as well as immersive historical elements and reenactments along the course.
Colonial Era Liberty Ball
July 11, 2026 – 6 p.m.
You’re invited to step back in time—Colonial Ball style. Visit Appomattox County for a lively 1776-themed ball celebrating the birth of our nation. Whether you’re eager to join in the dancing or prefer to relax and enjoy the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone. Colonial attire is welcome and will be admired but is not required—come as you are and enjoy the sights, sounds, tastes, and trivia of yesteryear. Pamplin Train Depot – 115 Main Street, Pamplin, Virginia
Designed for Gathering
A simple kitchen update evolved into a full-home transformation at Smith Mountain Lake, where thoughtful design, family antiques, and lakefront views create a space built for entertaining.
By: Megan Williams / Photos By: Ashlee Glen
It all started with a conversation homeowners will recognize all too quickly. Jeff Allen and his daughter, Daphne, realized there was one small improvement that could be made to their kitchen space to allow for easier entertaining.
“Then it all snowballed from there,” Allen laughed.
One small shift to make space for a double trashcan led to myriad “what if” conversations. What if we open up this space? What if we had more light in the kitchen? What if this space didn’t just allow for family gatherings, but entertaining the way we want to entertain?
So Daphne called her longtime friend Mady Perillo, co-owner of Greer Design Co.
“Mady really started with a blank slate,” Allen explained. “A lot of what you see here was Mady and her vision.”
Allen’s lakefront home was originally built in the 1990s and it was largely established as a summer home—a quiet retreat that a young family could escape to. As the family grew, got older, and needs shifted, Allen and his brother worked together to add on to the home—adding a large basement den and primary bedroom and bathroom. Then, it became a full-time home for the first time.
When Allen reached out to Greer Design, he was largely still in the Lynchburg area but also traveling back and forth between Smith Mountain Lake and St. Pete, Florida, where he and his wife, Lynette, have another residence.
“From the beginning, our focus was on creating a home that felt bright, welcoming, and comfortable as the home previously was quite dark,” Perillo explained. “Our clients are wonderful entertainers, so making guests feel special was a top priority. Their love of coastal-inspired colors, paired with our passion for creating distinctive and memorable spaces, led us to design each room with its own personality while keeping the overall feel bright, relaxed, and cohesive.”
“Some things were still dated from the 90s and from the addition,” continued Allen. “So we tasked Mady with doing a makeover to who we are today, not when our kids were little.”
And indeed, the home is instantly warm, bright, and welcoming—with conversational nooks and space strategically placed to welcome conversation or to allow large groups of people to spread out. As you walk through the front door, you’re immediately met with an open kitchen. A large island—perfect for many elbows and drink glasses to gather—rests as the focal point of the space before the eye wanders to the dining area and the custom wine wall the Greer Design Co. team had installed. As you walk through the space, you’ll notice that the eye naturally knows which area to focus on next. The wine wall gives way to the screened in porch, where the oversized furniture all but beckons visitors to stretch out and stay a while. From there, a welcome wander to the opposite wall, where large prints of priceless family photos are framed in a grid invite you back inside where the air is cool and the drinks are being poured. Family or visitors need only turn around, however, to be greeted with an unbelievable sight: Floor-to-ceiling windows that give the viewer a full view of Smith Mountain Lake below. Situated on the second to last cove just before the Smith Mountain Lake dam, the water is deep and is rendered a stunning and surprising blue. A seating area invites you to take it all in, from the tiered landscaping that ushers you toward the boathouse and dock to the calm and quiet water itself.
“The homeowners were drawn to a neutral and cozy, coastal-inspired color palette, which became our starting point for the design,” said Perillo. “At the same time, the home included spaces with a very strong Virginia Tech influence, most notably the basement, which featured maroon and orange walls in addition to the mural when we began! Our goal was to honor both of those inspirations without allowing either theme to dominate the overall design. We focused on translating those influences into a more refined and timeless aesthetic.
We incorporated a cozy color palette and sense of ease often associated with coastal interiors, then added antiques, some unique pieces, and varied textures to add depth and character. That collected, layered approach is central to our design philosophy and was especially fitting for this project, given Jeff’s family background in antiques.”
No stranger to Smith Mountain Lake, Allen grew up just across the water at his parents’ lakefront home. His father owned Lawrence Allen Antiques on Old Boonesboro Road (where Meriwether Godsey is today). His father specialized in antiques, some of which reside in Allen’s lakefront home today.
“In our [primary] bedroom, there are two Henkel Harris nightstands,” Allen explained. “They’re called Allen Nightstands, and they are actually reproductions of nightstands that my dad sold. The originals are still in his house today.”
The corner cupboard in the hallway seating area is also one of Allen’s family heirlooms, which Allen recalls his grandmother painstakingly scraping off eight coats of paint by hand to refinish it.
“It’s a nice mix of antique and modern that flows with the house,” Lynette continued.
Throughout the home, the Greer Design Co. team incorporated custom elements that added character and a sense of intention to each space that worked alongside Allen’s staple, family heirloom pieces.
“In the guest bedroom, the unique and budget-friendly paint treatment created depth and visual interest by adding color but keeping the room still light and bright,” Perillo said. “While custom elements in the kitchen—such as the brass range hood—serve as a focal point, mixing cabinet hardware finishes creates visual interest and enlarging the kitchen window adds another focal point while filling the space with more light.”
Layered lighting was another important design element throughout the home. The Greer Design Co. team combined fixtures to create warmth and dimension, including a double layer of sconces framing a family gallery wall that transforms a pass-by wall into a memorable feature. In the downstairs den, they combined three TV consoles to achieve the look of a custom built-in while still being affordable and attainable.
“This home really has evolved over my lifetime,” Allen said, as he looked into the open concept dining room and kitchen from the screened in porch. “It now has everything we need for the family we are today.”
Pool Party Recipes
A vibrant, fresh summer menu that’s perfect for an afternoon by the pool or a lazy evening in the shade
Written & Photographed By: Laura Miner
This collection of fun, vibrant recipes is perfect for a sunny day in the backyard. Much of it can be prepped ahead of time, meaning you get to spend more of the party with your friends and loved ones. When hosting is easier, you may actually get to take a dip in the pool, too!
Better-Than-Takeout Taco Bar (Photo above)
Serves 6
Skip the drive-thru and build the ultimate taco night at home with one of my favorite entertaining meals! When everyone builds their own tacos, you simply create an easy setup that turns taco night into an interactive feast with bold flavors and fresh ingredients in every bite.
Because you can prep most of the ingredients the day before, it makes the party a lot less stressful—simply heat up the final items just before serving.
Best of all, you can totally customize the ingredients that you serve, so everyone’s happy. Grab your favorite proteins, salsas, and toppings, and let’s go!
Ingredients:
2 lbs ground beef
1 can black beans
Jalapeño
Cheddar cheese
2 limes
Cilantro
Pickled onions (see salad recipe)
1 head lettuce
Flour or corn tortillas
1 jar salsa
1 small sour cream
8-10 taco shells
Taco Seasoning Ingredients:
1 tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
Instructions:
1. Do the prep work: Slice the jalapeño, removing the ribs and seeds to decrease the heat (if preferred). Mince the cilantro. Shred the cheese. Shred half of the lettuce, leaving the larger leaves whole for lettuce wraps. Mix together the taco seasoning ingredients and set aside.
2. Cook the beef. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook, breaking it apart until browned. Stir in the seasonings and 1/4 cup of water. Simmer for four to five minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Heat the beans. Drain the liquid from the can, then add the black beans to a small saucepan. Add juice of 1/2 lime, 1 teaspoon cumin, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Heat over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from the heat and stir in 1-2 tablespoons of cilantro.
4. Toast the tortillas, and warm the taco shells. Set out all the prepared ingredients.
Pro tips:
Buy pre-made to save time: Buy shredded cheese, and/or skip the homemade seasoning blend and use a pre-made packet.
Try the standing taco shells. I always find they make it easier, faster, and less messy when friends try to fill their tacos.
Plan your servingware for each element the night before. I like to set out each bowl with a sticky note with what I plan to use it for. This makes party-time feel brainless, and you won’t be scrambling to find the right bowl or forget something you wanted to serve.
Honey-Mint Tropical Fruit Salad
Serves 6
This fruit salad will make your mouth water from across the room! Juicy seasonal fruit gets gently tossed in a dressing of sweet honey and tangy lime juice, with aromatic mint and lime zest to really make it come to life! Serve it chilled for a fruit salad that tastes just as beautiful as it looks!
Dressing Ingredients:
2 tbsp honey
1 lime, zested and juiced
Salad Ingredients:
3 cups fresh watermelon
2 cups strawberries
1 cup blackberries
1 cup blueberries
2 mangos
2 oranges
2 cups pineapple
15-20 fresh mint leaves (about 1/4 cup loosely packed)
Instructions:
1. Dice the watermelon, strawberries, mangos, oranges, and pineapple into bite-sized pieces. Chop the mint.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, zest, and honey.
3. Add all of the fruit to a large bowl, cover, and keep chilled until just before serving.
4. Just before serving, drizzle the fruit with the dressing. Add the mint. Gently toss the fruit salad and serve.
Mango Slushie
Serves 4
This drink is super creamy and dreamy! It tastes like sunshine in a glass! It’s an easy recipe that comes together in minutes with a handful of simple ingredients. Made frozen mango, orange juice, and ice, it blends into the perfect tropical treat for hot summer days. Because the sweet mango flavor pairs perfectly with the bright citrus, you get a refreshing drink that feels a little like a vacation.
It’s really thick, so don’t forget the spoon!
Ingredients:
3 cups frozen diced mango
3 cups orange juice
2-3 cups ice
Juice of 2 limes
Instructions:
1. First, add only the frozen mango, orange juice, and lime juice to your blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Add 2 cups of ice and blend again until smooth.
3. Add the rest of the ice, and blend again for a thicker consistency.
Tip: If it becomes too thick to blend, add a little water.
Optional: For more tropical flavor, swap half of the orange juice with coconut milk.
Grilled Corn & Avocado Salad
Serves 4
This grilled corn and avocado salad is the perfect mix of smoky, creamy, crisp, and fresh. Sweet charred corn, buttery avocado, juicy tomatoes, and tangy pickled onions are tossed together with crisp lettuce and drizzled with a creamy, lightly spicy dressing for a salad that’s packed with flavor and texture. It’s a delicious side dish for summer cookouts, tacos, grilled chicken, or weeknight dinners, and it’s even hearty enough to enjoy as a light meal on its own. Fresh, colorful, and easy to make, this is the kind of salad that’ll make everyone come back for seconds!
Salad Ingredients:
4 ears of corn on the cob
1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes
3 cups mixed lettuce
2 avocados
1/4 cup cilantro
Optional: 1/2 cup crumbled cotija cheese
Pickled Onion Ingredients:
1 red onion
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Chipotle-Lime Ranch Ingredients:
1 cup store-bought ranch dressing
1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
Juice of 1 lime
Optional: handful of cilantro
Instructions:
1. The day before, or at least a few hours before, make the pickled onions. Using a mandoline or sharp knife, carefully slice the red onion thinly. Heat the vinegar until warm but not boiling. Add the pickled onions to a mason jar and pour the vinegar on top. Season with a dash of salt and sugar. Press the onions down until fully submerged. You can top it off with water if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least four hours.
2. Prepare the grilled corn: Preheat a well-oiled grill to medium (about 350˚F). Place the shucked corn directly on the grill, turning occasionally, until the corn kernels are plump and you see light char marks on all sides, about eight to 10 minutes. Set the corn aside to cool slightly.
3. Meanwhile, prepare dressing. Mince the peppers, and juice the lime. Whisk together all the salad dressing ingredients.
4. Prepare the salad. Halve the tomatoes, and dice the avocados. Chop the lettuce. Mince the cilantro. Once the corn is cooled, carefully cut the kernels away from the cob.
5. Add all the salad ingredients to a large bowl, add some pickled onions, and toss with the dressing. Serve right away.
The Living Music of the Hill City
Every time I go to a concert, I notice the feeling of anticipation that builds as you get closer to the start of the show.
By: Charlotte Farley / Photos By: Becky Lambert Photography, Courtesy Of Seven Hills Chamber
That moment feels especially charged when it happens inside the historic Lynchburg Museum, where people registered to vote where they got married, and where the fate of defendants on trial for murder hung in the air.
On most days, the building feels quiet, with pieces of its past on display: artifacts, photographs, and other fragments of lives that once moved through the same streets we do. But in August, the Seven Hills Chamber Music Festival will open its summer concert series inside the museum’s main hall: the former courtroom of an 1855 building designed for voices to carry.
Opening night will layer a Louis Armstrong tribute for trumpet and string quartet, Jessie Montgomery’s Strum, and newly unearthed music by Lynchburg-connected composers into a single evening.
“We have the concerts in what used to be the courtroom,” said museum director Ted Delaney. “We put the performers on the judge’s platform. And if you think about it, the building was designed for that—a group of people gathered to listen to something happening at the front of the room.”
He thinks about it a lot. “It lends itself so naturally to music,” he added. “Having live music performed in that space, to me, is one of the best uses of our very beautiful historic structure.”
Music that Lives in the Room
The Seven Hills Chamber Music Festival is heading into its sixth season this summer. If you’re a music aficionado, that might bring a spark of excitement. On the other hand, you might hear the words “chamber music” and immediately picture old-world royalty having a private concert, seeing it as formal and untouchable—and you won’t be alone there. (Back in the day, I thought chamber music meant Gregorian chanting monks!)
In reality, chamber music simply means a small group of musicians playing together—often one player to a part—in spaces where you can hear and see every detail. It’s music built for conversation: between instruments, between performers, and, if it’s working, between the people onstage and the people listening.
Seven Hills Chamber Music delivers a stunning Bach Brandenburg Concerto. And yes, there’s a sense of intimacy inherent to this genre with its smaller ensembles, closer quarters, and music that asks you to lean in. But Seven Hills is just as committed to contemporary work and performing (and sometimes commissioning) pieces by living composers. I still think about last season’s performance of Stir Crazy by Carlos Simon and the way the flute and violin captured, through sound, what so many of us were experiencing during that time.
More than a Venue: A Partner
For festival co-founder and Lynchburg native Dudley Raine IV, the museum concert started simply: try something different. “We had been playing in a lot of churches, and we wanted to find a space that felt a little less expected. The museum seemed like a great place to try it. We try to use Lynchburg’s history to build a theme,” Raine said, “to tell stories that might have been forgotten.”
Working with Delaney, “he found a whole trove of pieces in the archives and we found pieces and composers I never would have known about otherwise.”
That was three years ago. Since then, the relationship has grown from “a concert in a cool building” into a partnership with its own rhythm.
Festival co-founder Nicole Brancato helps shape the arc of each concert so the music, the space, and the stories all feel like they’re in conversation with one another. One past program drew on the story of Blind Billy and Tom Perkins, a local 19th-century fife-and-fiddle duo. To echo their sound inside the old courtroom, Seven Hills chose works for modern instruments carrying forward the rhythms that once floated over these same hills.
“It’s been really interesting to see the exhibits when we’re there and to start learning about Lynchburg’s history in a deeper way—especially the music,” he said.
Over time, that curiosity has started to shape the concerts themselves. That curiosity led to more research, more local names, and an expanded program, this year supported in part by a Virginia Humanities grant.
The Exchange of Energy
And then there’s the part no one can plan for: the energy the audience brings to the show.
“The last piece we did last year was [by] Kathleen O’Moore,” Raine said. “We gave the audience the music and had them sing along. It was incredible. Just this shared energy—everyone in the room participating. That was one of those moments where you think, ‘This is why we’re doing this.’”
For Delaney, that shift matters.
“Our mission is to connect people to local history,” he said. “But not everyone comes to a museum for that. Some people need a different way in.”
Music, it turns out, can be that way in.
“If someone comes for the performance, and that’s what brings them into this building, then they’re also encountering history,” he said.
A space once used for judgment, record, and decision-making is now holding something less about what was decided, and more about what can still be felt. “To have live music in that space,” Delaney said, “after everything that’s happened there—it’s really special.”
He hopes people walk back out onto Monument Terrace with a different sense of the city they just looked down on. “I want people to be so impressed that such beautiful music was composed here and that such talented composers lived here, walked the streets we do, lived in the same places we live, and work and go to school,” he said. “So many people discount Lynchburg and think, ‘Nobody of any note lived here, nothing important happened here,’ but I see the opposite. This concert is just one small way to have people see what we see.”
It helps that the music itself is anything but small. About half of the festival’s roster has roots in Virginia, and all of them bring serious credentials with them—players who have performed with major orchestras and ballet companies, on Broadway stages and at Carnegie Hall, with institutions like the Juilliard School and the New York Philharmonic, on HBO and Netflix, and at venues around the world. Some are voting members of the Recording Academy, some are Yamaha artists, and all are chamber musicians in the truest sense: collaborators who know how to listen as intensely as they play. When they gather in Lynchburg, the room is holding world-class artistry and hometown memory at the same time.
“I just couldn’t believe how good the music was,” Delaney said, remembering his first experience with this chamber music festival. “And thinking, this came from Lynchburg. Not from Europe or New York. From here.”
On August 12, the room will decide again what it’s going to be. And if you’re there, sitting in that brief, electric pause before the first note, you’ll feel it happen.
2026 LL Fun Guide
As summer settles in, there’s no better time to explore the rich history and vibrant arts scene that define our region.
From captivating theater performances to immersive historical sites, Lynchburg offers a unique blend of culture and storytelling that brings the past to life. Whether you’re rediscovering familiar landmarks or venturing to new experiences, this guide is your perfect companion for an unforgettable summer filled with adventure.
The Back Nine Golf
Experience The Back Nine Golf Simulator — where 30 minutes feels like 90 on the course. Enjoy pro-level analytics, lifelike simulation, and 24/7 access to perfect your swing anytime. Get faster results, elevate your game, and play like the pros. Whether driving, putting, or practicing, it’s golf without limits. Join today and improve year-round.
AquaZoo is home to the most unique experiences. You’ll meet a wide variety of animals from numerous different species. Discover fish, mammals, birds, reptiles, insects, and amphibians from around the planet! During this hands-on adventure, you’ll journey through the Amazon Rainforest, Caribbean, Mayan Jungle, and Pirate Island while touching and feeding the exotic residents!
Lynchburg Cooks for Change returns with a fresh, elevated twist on a beloved community tradition. This community event used to be called Lynchburg Cooks for Hunger Relief and was held at Phase 2. Come out on June 6th for an unforgettable evening filled with incredible food, refreshing drinks, live music, exciting raffles, and all kinds of auctions. Savor tastings form 221 Tap & Table, Benjamins, Charley’s and The Neighbors Place while enjoying a lively atmosphere featuring the Karlee Raye Band. This unique culinary experience brings the community together for a night of connection and purpose. Guests can also enter a raffle for a chance to win your choice of a 4-Wheeler or Jet-Ski from Polaris Motorsports which adds even more excitement to the event. But most important of all, every ticket purchased and dollar raised at this event supports the United Way of Central Virginia, our local Lynchburg Daily Bread, and our local Meals on Wheels of Greater Lynchburg making your night out both enjoyable and impactful.
History comes alive, onstage and outdoors at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. Join us on the grounds of Thomas Jefferson’s private retreat for these special events this summer!
Don’t miss “The Day Is Past and Gone,” Teresa Harris’s poignant drama inspired by the lives of the enslaved people at Poplar Forest and their struggles to survive, with two performances only, on May 29 & 30 at 6:30 p.m.
Plus, join us for a historic salute to our nation’s 250th anniversary, with our “Independence Day Celebration” on July 4th, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., featuring colonial crafts and entertainment, children’s activities, and more!
Nestled on 2,847 stunning acres with old-growth forests, two lakes, and 22 miles of trails, Sweet Briar College is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable summer experience.
Whether you’re a middle schooler dreaming of athletic glory, a high schooler ready to explore engineering, environmental science, or music, or an adult seeking creative renewal, Sweet Briar has something for you. Sharpen your skills in cross country, field hockey, lacrosse, rowing, tennis, or volleyball. Saddle up at our world-class 130-acre equestrian center. Unleash your creativity at our Summer Arts & Writing Retreat, featuring three-day workshops led by our own distinguished faculty.
With room to roam and inspiration around every corner, your best summer starts here.
Explore summer programs at Sweet Briar College today! For more information visit www.sbc.edu/summer-programs
Patrick Henry’s Red Hill
Celebrate America’s 250th Independence Day at Patrick Henry’s Red Hill in Brookneal with an unforgettable evening of history, family fun, and patriotic spirit! A direct descendant of Patrick Henry will take the stage to read the Declaration of Independence aloud and powerfully recite the famous “Give Me Liberty, or Give Me Death” speech. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with local vendors, including food trucks, plus enjoyable activities like historic building tours, Living History demonstrations, children’s games, face painting, and much more! Bring your family, friends, and lawn chairs as the night builds to a spectacular grand fireworks display lighting up the sky. Do not miss this exciting celebration of America’s founding. Still just $10/car! For more information, visit www.redhill.org or call us at 434-376-2044. Plan your visit today!
Check out www.redhill.org and head to our events page to see what’s coming up!
MasterWorks Festival
Experience extraordinary classical music this summer at the MasterWorks Festival, June 16–July 11. Enjoy over 30 free events featuring world-class performances by renowned faculty, guest artists, and outstanding young musicians. Highlights include inspiring orchestra concerts and faculty recitals every Friday and Saturday evening,as well as engaging guest artist masterclasses and recitals throughout the festival. This year’s guest artists include acclaimed soloists such as 2025 Van Cliburn Competition Finalist and MasterWorks alumnus Carter Johnson.
The MasterWorks Festival is a four-week celebration of excellence in the classical performing arts, bringing together exceptional artists and students in performances in an atmosphere of dynamic Christian faith. Come experience music of the highest caliber, free and open to the public.
Moore’s Country Store celebrates 100 years of hot dogs, heritage, and a community that keeps coming back
By: Jeremy Angione / Photos By: Ashlee Glen
Moore’s Country Store recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary by opening its doors to the community that has supported it for generations—serving its trademark hotdogs and other festive favorites.
Owner and Vice President of Moore’s Country Store, Jennifer Moore, said Herman and Della Moore originally opened the business on July 4, 1926, under the name Riverside Station. Over time, local patrons dubbed the eatery as Moore’s Country Store, a name that has endured to this day.
“Moore’s is built around a long-standing tradition of community, food, and family. This dedication to being welcoming and attentive is what helps us maintain the sense of community that Moore’s is known for,” Jennifer said.
David Moore grew up in and around the store that his grandparents opened. After he and Jennifer married, they went on to purchase the business from David’s parents in 1999.
Jennifer began her career at Moore’s as a cashier, but quickly recognized the value of understanding every role within the business.
Moore’s centennial celebration drew a crowd of loyal customers and first-timers alike who enjoyed desserts, festive decorations, and Moore’s trademark hotdogs.
“We couldn’t have asked for a better day. We were able to spend time with almost everyone that came in, even meeting new people throughout the day. It was truly memorable,” Jennifer recalled.
One of the most consistent themes behind Moore’s continued success is its commitment to authentic relationships with the community—relationships that extend far beyond transactions.
“We have long lasting friendships with many of the customers, former and current employees, and vendors. We’ve watched children grow into adults. We have been part of celebrations from birthdays, graduations, and even weddings. We’ve been part of the hard and sad parts of people’s lives and they have been part of ours,” Jennifer mused.
Admittedly, after years of driving past Moore’s flagship location swearing I’d try it one day, I finally stopped in for the first time on the day of the celebration. The shop was bustling as guests trickled in and staff members continued to decorate. Despite the busyness of the store, the atmosphere still felt warm and welcoming, just as Jennifer suggested.
To feel like my visit was complete, I made it my mission to have at least two of Moore’s famous hotdogs. I made sure to load mine with cheese and Moore’s equally famous chili. The ingredients are simple, fresh, and housemade, but still manage to make for a memorable meal that even its owners can’t resist.
Jennifer says her favorites are a “Moore’s Original Hot Dog, without onions, with a mix of the sweet, beefy chili and the hot spicy chili. I also love our house-made chicken salad and our fresh ground beef burgers. You just can’t pick one item.”
To commemorate the history of Moore’s Country Store, the Moores commissioned muralist Michael Twery to paint a visual history of the shop, from its humble beginnings to the current day.
“Michael worked closely with our daughter, Savannah, to ensure the mural captured the spirit and legacy of Moore’s,” Jennifer explained.
One of the most memorable parts of the Moore’s experience is the tree growing right through the roof of the store’s front entrance. Not only is it a unique visual marker for any passersby, but more poignantly, it serves as a visual representation of the Moore’s legacy.
According to Jennifer, in 1974, the original store was badly burned by a fire caused by fireworks in the store that had been set alight by a stray cigarette. Bill Moore, David’s father, saw the reconstruction as an opportunity to add a small tree as a unique element of Moore’s next phase of life.
“What started as a slender trunk only three inches wide has since grown and become a distinctive part of Moore’s.
The tree is nourished by a creek that runs beneath the store, making it an integral element of both the structure and the story of Moore’s Country Store,” Jennifer said.
Of course, over 100 years of operation, Moore’s has seen its fair share of changes. From new locations to creating its own line of products distributed throughout Virginia, Jennifer asserts that the most challenging pivots have been the move to more viable employee benefits, such as health coverage, and the implementation of up to date internet and technology that any century old business would have to adjust to.
“Despite these obstacles, we remained determined to move forward. Our entire crew adapted to every new hurdle, embracing a ‘let’s do this’ attitude. Through every change, we worked together, stayed positive, and kept finding ways to succeed as a team,” Jennifer said.
According to Jennifer, Moore’s Country Store plans to stay the course in order to keep the doors open for the next 100 years.
“We will continue to serve the community to the best of our ability. We will keep our sense of family, tradition, and great, quality food. Our goal is to maintain this location and to extend the reach of our hotdogs, Moore’s Coleslaw, Moore’s Beef Chili and Moore’s Original Hot Dog Chili with Moore’s Original Brands,” Jennifer said.
For anyone who has yet to experience the rich legacy of Moore’s Country Store and all of its products, the flagship location is right on Richmond Highway, marked by that peculiar tree jutting through the front entrance roof.
You can also find more information about Moore’s and find where all their products are available at moorescountrystore.com.
