Happenings: The Only Roanoke Events Calendar You’ll Ever Need. Week of 11/5 to 11/12.
Looking for something to do? Find numerous options in our Happenings calendar.

We scoured 30 disparate community calendars (yes, 30) so you didn’t have to. From live music to theatre, lectures to drag shows, we’ve got you covered. We encourage folks to contact the venue directly to learn of any last minute changes or cancellations.
Have a Happening? Does your business want to sponsor a newsletter? Reach out to us at news@roanokerambler.com with “Happening” in the subject line. Have fun!
This weekend
- Thursday, 11/6 to Sunday, 11/9 — Disney on Ice presents Road Trip Adventures at the Berglund Center Coliseum (710 Williamson Rd., Roanoke). ($)
- Friday, 11/7 to Saturday, 11/8 — Blackout Events at Terror Manor (805 Norfolk Ave. SW, Roanoke). Are you afraid of the dark? Terror Manor kills all the lights for this final weekend event, and each group is allowed just one glowstick to light their way. All children under 16 must have an adult on premises. Enter at your own risk. ($)
- Friday 11/7 to Sunday, 11/9 — “On Golden Pond” presented by Exit, Pursued by A Bear Theatre at Community High School (302 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke). Continues through November 16. ($)
- Friday, 11/7 to Monday, 11/10 — Paranormal Cirque III at the Salem Civic Center (1001 Roanoke Blvd, Salem). A crazy yet fun fusion between Circus, theatre, and cabaret in perfect harmony with the evolution of a show that brings you back to when we dream ... and when we had nightmares and fantasies. Restricted show. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or guardian over 21 with valid photo ID; no one under age 13 admitted. Purchase tickets here. ($)
- Saturday, 11/8 to Sunday, 11/9 — Blue Ridge Potters Guild Annual Show and Sale at Patrick Henry High School (2102 Grandin Rd., Roanoke). Guests can browse hundreds of unique, handmade pieces — from mugs, bowls, and dinnerware to intricate vases, wall art, and contemporary sculpture. Each work is individually created by skilled artisans who are eager to share their craft, techniques, and inspiration with visitors. Enjoy live pottery demonstrations, offering an up-close look at wheel-throwing, hand-building, and glazing techniques. Admission and parking are free. Refreshments will be available for purchase, and the venue is accessible.
Wednesday, Nov. 5
- 5 to 9 p.m. — Cigar 101 at Bison Head Cigar Lounge (20 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke). Learn the whole process of cigar making, from the time the seed is planted till the tobacco is rolled. Our special guest will also be teaching how to smoke a cigar properly as well as cigar etiquette.
- 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Foster Burton at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 6 to 9 p.m. — Jazz Nights hosted by Brian Mesko at Six and Sky Rooftop Grille (1 Market Sq., Roanoke).
- 6:30 p.m. — Open Mic Comedy Night at Big Lick Brewing (409 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke).
- 7 to 11 p.m. — Open Mic at The Front Row (356 Salem Ave., Roanoke). Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just have something to say, this is your chance to shine.
- 10 p.m. — Live music: Karaoke Night at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke).
Thursday, Nov. 6
- 9 a.m. to noon — Open Art Studio Space at Wellness on Melrose (2502 Melrose Ave. NW, Roanoke). Work on your own project or get inspiration from a resource artist. Use our supplies or bring your own. All artistic levels are welcome. Repeats weekly.
- 4 p.m. — Gaymer Day at Roanoke Diversity Center (425 Campbell Ave. SW., Roanoke). Hang out with other local young adults in the lounge, watch the latest music videos, play board games, chat and mingle. Bring your controllers and play your friends with our Nintendo Switch or Playstation, or start an RPG, card games and board games.
- 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Small Town Royals at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 5:30 to 7 p.m. — Living Beyond Loss: Questions about Grief and Bereavement presented by Carilion Clinic at the Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). Guest speakers Dr. Robert Neimeyer and Dr. Carolyn Ng will explain steps to healing during grief. No cost to participate. Registration is required.
- 6 to 8 p.m. — Live music: Circus Child at Twisted Track Brewpub (523 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke).
- 7 to 11 p.m. — Karaoke Night at The Front Row (356 Salem Ave., Roanoke). Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just have something to say, this is your chance to shine.
- 7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 7) — Live music: Mariee Siou at The Spot on Kirk (22 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
- 9:30 p.m. — Live music: Latin Night with JStop Latin Soul at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke).
Friday, Nov. 7
- 4:30 to 7 p.m. — Networking: The Young Professionals Late Night Lounge at the Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). The Young Professionals Lounge is an exclusive space for prospective members to network and learn more about membership benefits and programming. This event is free and welcoming to all young professionals and includes a drink ticket for those who become a member or upgrade their membership. Bring your friends for a night of art, drinks, and fun.
- 5 to 8 p.m. — Opening reception: “Colors” at Art on 1st (300 1st St. SW, Roanoke). Color can transform a space, evoke emotion, or shift perspective. For this group exhibition, we invited artists to explore the role of color in their work and how it influences the way we see and feel. This show runs through Dec. 27.
- 5 to 8:30 p.m. — Opening reception for Raven Skye McDonough’s “Redefining the Art of Collage” at Left of Center Art Space (24 Campbell Ave. SW, Roanoke). This show will be up through November 29.
- 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. — Live music: Father Sun at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 6 p.m. — Live music: Friday Food Truck and Tunes at Sweet Donkey (2108 Broadway Ave., Roanoke).
- 6 to 8 p.m. — Art Showing + Social: “American Viscose Plant Revelations” presented by I Heart SE at Riverdale Community Room (1860 9th St. SE, Roanoke). Artist Kevin Deck is a lifelong maker, a full-time architect, and a weekend painter, working and living in Roanoke, Virginia. Drop in to see this uniquely Southeast Roanoke exhibit, meet the artist, enjoy light refreshments, and connect with I Heart SE neighbors. Original paintings, Giclee prints, and copies of Kevin’s book will be available for sale. FREE to attend. ALL are welcome.
- 6 to 9 p.m. — Live music: Mason Creek at Twisted Track Brewpub (523 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke).
- 6:30 to 8 p.m. — Author event: Winslow Homer: American Passage – Talk and Book Signing with William R. Cross at the Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). Meet author, historian, and scholar William R. Cross, whose book, “Winslow Homer: American Passage,” dives into the life of an artist who led his life on the frontlines of history, making archetypal images of American culture. The event is pay as you wish. Registration is highly encouraged to reserve your seat. ($)
- 7:30 p.m. — Live music: Jack Marion and the Pearl Snap Prophets at Olde Salem Brewing Company (315 Market St., Roanoke).
- 7:30 p.m. — Live music: Southwest Virginia Songwriters Association Fall Showcase at the 3rd Street Coffee House (305 Mountain Ave. SW, Roanoke). Hear four different artists performing their original songs in the round including Bill Stanton, Gary Marchesano and with special guest Paul Crum.
- 8 p.m. — Live music: Solacoustix at Rosie’s Gaming Emporium (1135 Vinyard Rd., Vinton)
- 8 to 11 p.m. — Live music: Blue Connection at Pok-E-Joe’s (105 E. Washington Ave. Vinton).
- 9:30 p.m. — Live music: Travis Reigh at Sidewinders (16 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke).
- 10 p.m. — Live music: Half Moon at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke). Purchase tickets here. ($)
Saturday, Nov. 8
- 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. — 540 Card Show at the Salem Civic Center (1001 Roanoke Blvd, Salem). Sports/Trading Cards and Collectibles Show.
- 11 a.m. — Virginia Veterans Parade in downtown Roanoke (starting at Jefferson St. and Highland Rd. intersection; ending at Campbell Ave. and Williamson Rd. intersection). Find a map here.
- 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Smith Mountain Lake Chili Festival at Bridgewater Plaza (16410 Booker T. Washington Highway, Moneta). A competitive chili cookoff is at the center of the action with teams going all out with themes, decorations and costumes! Enjoy chili tastings and then cast your vote for “People’s Choice” and “Showmanship.” Also awarded is an overall “Best Chili” trophy. ($)
- Noon — Twisted Track Brewpub’s 5th Anniversary Party featuring Gak! (523 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). Party all day; music starts at 6 p.m.
- Noon to 1 p.m. — Steppin’ with Nish: Pop-Up Hip Hop Step Cardio — Brown Sugar Edition presented by Let’s Conquer Fitness at 601 11th St. NW, Roanoke. Expect hip hop beats, fire combos, and that “we outside” energy — all while breaking a sweat and having fun doing it. Under 14 with parent or legal guardian. ($)
- 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. — Live music: Adam Markham at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 2 to 4 p.m. — Silent Book Club at Canvas & Coffee Art Cafe (1731 Grandin Rd., Roanoke). No assigned reading. No pressure.
- 3 p.m. — Goat Yoga at A Few Old Goats Brewing –– Roanoke (515 8th St. SW, Suite 228, Roanoke). ($)
- 4 p.m. — Salem Red Sox Rebrand Launch Party at Carilion Clinic Field (1004 Texas St., Salem). The launch party will feature the official team name reveal, live music, exclusive new merchandise, fireworks and more! The event is free and open to the public.
- 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Live music: RipeJive at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 6:30 p.m. — Live music: Goodtime Alibi at Big Lick Brewing Company (409 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke).
- 7 p.m. — Live music: Toby Mac Heaven on My Mind: Start to Finish at the Berglund Performing Arts Theatre (710 Williamson Rd., Roanoke). ($)
- 7 p.m. — Live music: Shauna Dean Cokeland & The Last Arizona at Blindhouse Beer Company (534 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke).
- 7 to 9 p.m. — The Ultimate Words x Vinyl x Vibes Speakeasy Pop-Up presented by Verses Lounge & Collaborative Center at Caribbica Soul (215 Market St., Roanoke). A live DJ set mixed with curated cocktails and spoken word featuring powerful artists and stories that move the room. RSVP. Get the password. Step inside. ($)
- 7 to 10 p.m. — Live music: Lonesome Joy at Fork in the Alley (2123 Crystal Spring Ave., Roanoke).
- 7:30 p.m. — Live music: Greg Greenway with Greg Trafidlo, Kathy Acosta, & Britt Mistele at the 3rd Street Coffee House (305 Mountain Ave. SW, Roanoke). This is a special Saturday performance.
- 8 p.m. — Live music: Loud Clangin’ & Bangin’ at 5 Points Music Sanctuary (1217 Maple Ave. SW., Roanoke). ($)
- 8 to 11 p.m. — Live music: Stegall & Rutledge at Pok-E-Joe’s (105 E. Washington Ave. Vinton).
- 10 p.m. — Live music: Travis Reigh at Sidewinders (16 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke).
- 10 p.m. — Live music: The Snozzberries + Airshow at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke). Purchase tickets here. ($)
Sunday, Nov. 9
- 11 a.m. to Noon — Yoga at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem). ($)
- Noon to 4 p.m. — Big Lick Bachata Brunch: 2 Year Anniversary at the Roanoke City Market Building (32 Market Sq. SE (Roanoke). Get festive and dress in BLLU colors (pink, orange, purple and/or blue) to help mark the occasion. There will be a beginner-friendly mambo lesson with instructor Lisa at 12pm, and then DJ Perico will be playing a mix of salsa, bachata, kizomba, zouk, and merengue. ($)
- 2 to 3 p.m. — Networking for Creatives: The Art Mixer presented by Get2KnowNoke at Second Cafe (813 5th St. SW, Roanoke). Calling all creatives! Muralists, designers, writers, musicians, makers, and artsy types of all kinds: this one’s for you. It’s the final Creative Hour of the year, hosted by the G2KN Talent Ambassadors Sebastian Harlow and Gabrielle King. Whether you’re new to the area or just now finding your people, this is your moment to mix, mingle, and get connected.
- 3 p.m. — Live music: Beethoven’s Pastorale presented by Roanoke Symphony Orchestra at the Jefferson Center’s Shaftman Performance Hall (541 Luck Ave., Roanoke). ($)
- 5 to 7 p.m. — Live music: Music on the Mountain featuring Dave Corbitt & Jeremy Davall presented by City of Roanoke Parks and Recreation at Mill Mountain Discovery Center (2000 JB Fishburn Parkway, Roanoke).
- 5 to 8 p.m. — Live music: Noah Spencer at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 5 to 8 p.m. — Live music: Jacob Ritter from Wilson Springs Hotel playing Solo at Fork in the Alley (2123 Crystal Spring Ave., Roanoke).
- 7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 7) — Live music: Clive Carroll at The Spot on Kirk (22 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
Monday, Nov. 10
- 6:30 p.m. — Live music: Irish Music Session at Big Lick Brewing Co. (409 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke).
Tuesday, Nov. 11 — Veterans Day
- 4 to 7 p.m. — Open Art Studio Space at Wellness on Melrose (2502 Melrose Ave. NW, Roanoke). Work on your own project or get inspiration from a resource artist. Use our supplies or bring your own. All artistic levels are welcome. Repeats weekly.
- 4 to 8 p.m. — Happy Hour for All at A Few Old Goats Brewing –– Roanoke (515 8th St. SW, Suite 228, Roanoke).
- 5 to 8 p.m. — Live music: Jared Stout at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 7:30 p.m. (Doors open at 7) — Live music: Mama's Broke with Chris Acker at The Spot on Kirk (22 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
- 9:30 p.m. — Live music: Christian Q. & Co. at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke).
Wednesday, Nov. 12
- 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Live music: Mercy Creek at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
- 6 to 8 p.m. — Silent Book Club at TXTUR at Fire Station No. 1 (13 Church Ave. SE, Roanoke). No assigned reading. No pressure.
- 6 to 9 p.m. — Jazz Nights hosted by Brian Mesko at Six and Sky Rooftop Grille (1 Market Sq., Roanoke).
- 7 p.m. — Screening: “We Are Fugazi from Washington, D.C.” at the Grandin Theatre (1310 Grandin Rd. SW, Roanoke). Created to commemorate the 20 years that have passed since DC-based post-hardcore band Fugazi’s last live appearance (November 4, 2002, at The Forum in London)... This unique archival assemblage celebrates the fans and their cameras, as much as the band itself — a collision/ collusion of the ephemeral moment on stage, and the moments captured on camera. ($)
- 7 to 11 p.m. — Open Mic at The Front Row (356 Salem Ave., Roanoke). Whether you're a poet, musician, comedian, or just have something to say, this is your chance to shine.
- 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7:30) — Live music: Earth with Stebmo at The Spot on Kirk (22 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
- 10 p.m. — Live music: Swamp Flower at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke).
Looking ahead
- Nov. 13, 7 p.m. — Flood of 1985 Remembered with Salem Museum Panel Discussion at Salem Museum (801 E. Main St., Salem). Members of the Salem Rescue Squad and Salem Fire-EMS will recount the events of the Flood of ‘85, when a record-breaking flood surge turned many streets and neighborhoods into roaring rivers of muddy debris. Scores of people clung to roofs awaiting rescue as the Roanoke River poured over its banks on 11/4/85. Through the valiant efforts of first responders, no lives were lost within city limits that day. Listen to firsthand accounts of those rescues and split-second decisions. The panel will begin following the Museum’s annual meeting of the membership. All are welcome to attend. ($)
- Nov. 15, 5:30 to 7 p.m. — “Can You Spot a Lie?’” storytelling competition at The June Bug Center (251 Parkway Ln. S., Floyd). Part of Tellabration!™, a worldwide storytelling celebration.
Ongoing
- Through Nov. 16 — “On Golden Pond” presented by Exit, Pursued by A Bear Theatre at Community High School (302 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke). ($)
- Through Nov. 29 — Raven Skye McDonough’s “Redefining the Art of Collage” at Left of Center Art Space (24 Campbell Ave. SW, Roanoke).
- Through Dec. 12 — “Curator Off Duty” Exhibition at Olin Hall Galleries at Roanoke College (240 High St. Salem). This is an open exhibition for any and all artists living in Virginia. This exhibition invites artists and creators of all ages, skill levels, and backgrounds to submit a work of art to be shown at Olin Hall Galleries. The only curatorial criteria is that each submission must fit within one cubic foot. Curator Off Duty aims to unite the Virginia visual arts community through diversity and inclusion. Open through December 12.
- Through Dec. 27: “Colors” at Art on 1st (300 1st St. SW, Roanoke). Color can transform a space, evoke emotion, or shift perspective. For this group exhibition, we invite artists to explore the role of color in their work and how it influences the way we see and feel. All styles, mediums, and experience levels are welcome.
- Saturdays through Dec. 27 — Downtown Roanoke Food & Cultural Tour starting at 11:15 a.m. from Hotel Roanoke (110 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). A walking tour that connects Roanoke's local food scene with the city's colorful history. Visit six food-tasting locations within the historic and vibrant downtown historic district. Delicious samplings, enough for a hearty meal for most, are served from locally-owned eateries at iconic historic locations. ($)
- Every Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — VA Works Assistance presented by the Virginia Department of Workforce Development and Advancement in Meeting Rooms B and C at the Roanoke City Main Library (706 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke). Do you need help with your job search? Looking for temporary income support or transition and training services? Visit the workforce experts at their satellite desks at the Main Library in downtown Roanoke.