It would be impossible to include all of Roanoke's events in the weekly posts, but there's so much out there to do! (Maybe not impossible, but who has time to read all that?) Instead, here's a list of some venues with consistent programming tailored to special interests:

🧸 The Children's Gallery // Art exhibits, classes, and activities for children. "The Children’s Gallery seeks to recreate the art-critical space of a traditional gallery setting, but with a child’s experience in mind."

🫀 Compress & Shock Foundation // Active in multiple states but based here in Roanoke, they offer free CPR & AED classes "to all communities with a specific dedication to those communities most adversely affected by cardiac arrest due to race, ethnicity, primary language, or access to healthcare education." Class locations vary.

🔮 GLOW Healing Arts // Reiki, massage, cards, crystals, workshops, classes, and gifts/services for the new age, metaphysical types. The events site isn't regularly updated, so it's best to check them out on Instagram or Facebook.

💃 Guia Dance Company // Heat things up with Latin or Ballroom dance classes—when you're ready, show off your skills and meet new people at one of their social dances.

🔨 Hammer & Stain // The eclectic crafter's dream, H&S offers a variety of classes from painting and knitting to resin pouring and flower arranging.

🌱 LEAP (Local Environmental Agriculture Project) // With information about Food Access Programs and farm-to-school programs, LEAP is committed to bringing fresh, healthy food to everyone, regardless of financial status.

🧸 Macaroni KID // While it's not locally run, it's a fantastic resource to find children's activities year-round.

🎭 Mill Mountain Theatre // Roanoke's very own live theatre. In 2024 alone, they've produced (among others) hits like Annie, Shrek the Musical, Waitress, and A Christmas Story.

🏺 Motel Studios // Learn all aspects of pottery creation with the groovy team at Motel Studios! Classes make great gifts, but make sure to check the site regularly as slots fill up quickly.

🎤 Music Lab at Jefferson Center // In addition to hosting an array of music-related masterclasses and workshops, the Music Lab (for a fee) offers "full access to a state-of-the-art multi-track recording studio, multiple sound-controlled practice rooms, and all necessary, professional-level equipment and software."

🕺 The Park Dance Club // This one's for you, queens. The Park has been Roanoke's hottest nightclub since 1978 and hosts an endless variety of dance parties and drag shows.

🤹‍♀️ PBJ Theatre Club // Designed to bring acting classes and small scale productions to the historic Grandin Village and beyond. Check the site for multi-day children's classes year round!

📚 Roanoke County Public Library // The library system holds tons of family-friendly activities including storytimes, D&D evenings, knitting circles, and adult education classes.

🚴‍♀️ Roanoke Outside Foundation // Regular walks, runs, bike rides, and yoga.

⚽️ Roanoke Parks & Recreation // From arts and E-sports to little league and volunteer opportunities, Roanoke Parks & Rec is the authority on classes for the community. Note that most activities have a fee and registration is required. Have fun out there!

🎨 The Studio School // In classes ranging from a couple days to several weeks, you can learn the art of painting, drawing, and mixed media—all skill levels welcome! Located in Towers Shopping Center; fee depends on the class and registration is required.

🪑 Woodcraft // Although it's a chain, Woodcraft of Roanoke may be the most affordable & accessible way to begin your woodworking journey. Beginner and intermediate offerings include bowl turning, knife making, and even how to make those ubiquitous checkerboard cutting boards!