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 week's Happenings calendar is sponsored by Taubman Museum of Art:

This weekend

• Thursday, 12/18 through Sunday, 12/21 — “The Tragedie of Macbeth” presented by Showtimers Community Theatre (2067 McVitty Rd. SW, Roanoke). Fueled by fear, Macbeth takes to heart the words of the Granny Witches and pressure from his wife, to kill their great leader Duncan, and assume his seat in power. His small Appalachian town watches as their new ruler slowly descends into madness, causing more bloodshed as superstition leads to paranoia. ($) 
• Friday, 12/19 through Sunday, 12/21 — Guided Candlelight Tours of the Galleries at the Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). Enjoy 45-minute tours starting at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30 p.m. beginning on this third night of Late Nights at the Taubman. These tours are held in conjunction with the popular Candlelight Concerts taking place at the Museum this weekend, but you don’t have to attend the concert to experience these special tours. ($)
• Saturday, 12/20 through Sunday, 12/21 — Salem Gun & Knife Show at the Salem Civic Center (1001 Roanoke Blvd, Salem). No loaded firearms. No exceptions. ($)
• Saturday, 12/20 through Sunday, 12/21 — “The Nutcracker” presented by Roanoke Ballet Theatre at the Jefferson Center’s Shaftman Performance Hall (541 Luck Ave., Roanoke). ($)
• Through Sunday, 12/21 — Closing weekend: “A Christmas Story” presented by Mill Mountain Theatre (1 Market Sq., Roanoke). Set in the 1940s, the play follows the adventures of young Ralphie Parker, who desperately wants a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas despite warnings from his parents, teacher, and even Santa Claus. ($)

Wednesday, December 17

• 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Live music: Foster Burton at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem). 
• 6 p.m. — Silent Book Club at Ursula’s Cafe (511 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke). No assigned reading. No pressure.
• 6 to 7:30 p.m. — 10th Annual Grandin Holiday Lights Extravaganza in the Historic Grandin Village (2014 Memorial Ave., Roanoke). Wear your reflective gear (the roads will be open) and come on out to see all the lights!
• 7 p.m. — Live music: Tim Martin and Brian Wheeling at Brambleton Deli (3655 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke).
• 7 p.m. — Live music: Solacoustix at Montano’s International Gourmet (7813, 3722 Franklin Rd. 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. 
• 7:30 p.m. — Live Music: Morgan Wade at the Jefferson Center’s Shaftman Performance Hall (541 Luck Ave., Roanoke). ($)
• 7:30 p.m. — “A Foxy Little Christmas Jazz Show” at Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center (110 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). Enjoy the velvet vocals of T-Fox and the energy of his band while sipping festive cocktails in the AKA Speakeasy, transformed into the Fox City Jazz Club for the night. Picture warm lights, holiday sparkle, and the smooth sounds of the Jazz Age, perfect for celebrating the season in style. Reservations: 540.853.8280 or by email. ($)
• 9:30 p.m.  —  Live music: Ben Trout Band at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke). 

Thursday, December 18

• 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Live music: Jared Stout at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem). 
• 7:30 p.m. — Live music: Farmer Family Band Presents: Songs for the Season at The Spot on Kirk (22 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
• 8 to 11 p.m. — R&B Karaoke at Kirk & Soul (312 2nd St. SW, Roanoke). Sing your heart out — talent optional. ($)
• 9:30 p.m. — Live music: Awen Family Band at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke). 

Friday, December 19

• 11 a.m. to noon — Lucy Addison historical marker unveiling (at the intersection of Orange Avenue and Burrell Avenue, Roanoke) This marker will recognize the property at 40 Douglass Ave. NW, Roanoke.
• 4 to 7 p.m. — Christmas at the Farm at the Blue Ridge Institute and Museum (20 Museum Dr., Ferrum). The 1800 farm will be lit with lanterns and will offer free cookies and cider, and a variety of vendors selling their unique items.
• 5 to 9 p.m. — Holiday Late Nights: Night Three at the Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). The special ticketed exhibition Making American Artists: Stories from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, 1776-1976, will be open each of the first three Friday nights in December (regular ticket rates apply to adults; school children are free during this time).
• 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Live music: Jordan Harman & the Humble Brags at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem). 
• 6 p.m. — Honoring the Life and Legacy of Dr. Walter S. Claytor at the Harrison Museum of African American Culture’s new location (2502 Melrose Ave. NW, Roanoke). This lecture honors Dr. Walter Claytor on what would have been his 100th birthday, highlighting his remarkable life, leadership, and enduring contributions to the community. Through reflection and shared stories, we celebrate his life. ($)
• 6 to 10 p.m. — Dickens of a Christmas Night Three RVSPCA Pet Costume Contest (1 Market Sq., Roanoke). The beloved Roanoke Valley SPCA Pet Costume Contest returns, taking place on Salem Avenue at the Plaza behind the Market Building. Pet owners may start registering their pets at 5:30pm the night of the event. The contest begins at 6:30pm.
• 6:30 p.m. — Live music: Ryan Greer at Big Lick Brewing Co. (409 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke). 
• 7 p.m. — Live music: Grooves & Goods with Femme Fatales Vinyl Club at The Spot on Kirk (22 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
• 8 p.m. — Live music: Isaac Hadden Family Christmas Jam at 5 Points Music Sanctuary (1217 Maple Ave. SW., Roanoke). ($)
• 8 to 11 p.m. — Live music: S & M Acoustical at Pok-E-Joe’s (105 E. Washington Ave. Vinton). 
• 9 p.m. — Ugly Sweater Karaoke at Corned Beef & Co. (107 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke). 
• 10 p.m. — Live music: Ugly Christmas Sweater Party with Mad Iguanas at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke). Purchase tickets here. ($)

Saturday, December 20

• 10:15, 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m. — Final Weekend: Songs & Stories with Santa (formerly Fantasyland) at the Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). Santa teaches important lessons of love and sharing as he tells original stories, sings, plays guitar, and interacts with the children through fun activities. Santa has set program times; advanced tickets are required, and tickets are non-transferrable. Every Saturday until Christmas. ($)
• 11 a.m. — Angels of Assisi Mega Adoption Event at the Berglund Center (710 Williamson Rd. NE, Roanoke). With 12 local rescues and shelters participating, puppies, kittens, dogs, cats, bunnies, and even a couple mini horses will all be waiting to meet you. Pet-focused vendors will be on site, and Santa Claus will be waiting at the exit to take adoption portraits with your new family member.
• 3:30 p.m. — Live music: The Holiday Mix: Live Christmas Music Experience at the Eye Planetarium (inside the Science Museum of Western Virginia at 1 Market Sq., Roanoke). Reserve your tickets in advance. ($)
• 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. — Soul Serenity hosted by Juice Smith at the Harrison Museum of African American Culture’s new location (2502 Melrose Ave. NW, Roanoke). The show is about the return of true expression. The return of art in verbal form, at a time when it is desperately needed. ($)
• 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. — Live music: The Kind at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
• 6 p.m. — Live music: Copycat Syndrome at Twisted Track Brewpub (523 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). 
• 6 p.m. — Yule Masquerade Ball at the Historic Fishburn Mansion (714 13th St. SW, Roanoke).  As the longest night gives way to the returning light, we gather to honor the turning of the Wheel and the sacred magic of Yule. Guests are encouraged to come dressed in their finest masquerade attire - formal, festive, and full of flair. Masks are a must, and a special prize will be awarded for the most captivating and creative ensemble. ($)
• 6 p.m. — The Hustler’s Ball: Not Your Average Gala: An Evening of Excellence at Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center (110 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). Join us for an unforgettable evening as we step into An Era of Excellence — celebrating a decade of community, creativity, and culture. ($)
• 6:30 p.m. — Live music: Goodtime Alibi at Big Lick Brewing Co. (409 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke). 
• 7 p.m. — Live music: A Very Locatelli Christmas presented by The Roanoque Baroque Chamber Orchestra and the Roanoque Baroque Chamber Choir with guest violinist Isaac Kay at First Evangelical Presbyterian Church (2101 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke). ($)
• 7 to 9 p.m. — Line Dancing with Angela at The Alley Cat (335 S. Main St., Rocky Mount).
• 7:05 p.m. — Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs vs. Birmingham Bulls at the Berglund Center Coliseum (710 Williamson Rd. NE, Roanoke). ($)
• 7:30 p.m. — Live music: MTI’s Jingle Bells Rock Show at Olde Salem Brewing Company (315 Market St., Roanoke). 
• 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7) — Live music: Zoso: The Ultimate Led Zeppelin Experience at the Harvester Performance Center (450 Franklin St., Rocky Mount). ($)
• 8 p.m. (Doors open at 7:30) — Live music: Salsa Noke: Holiday Pajamas Dance Party at The Spot on Kirk (22 Kirk Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
• 8 p.m. — Inaugural Santa Con at Corned Beef & Co. (107 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke). Come dressed as a good or bad santa, reindeer, frosty, present or anything holiday themed! DJ and holiday cocktails. Corned Beef & Co gift cards to first, second and third place for best dressed! 
• 8:45 p.m. — Live music: Candlelight: Queen vs. ABBA presented by Fever at the Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). ($)
• 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. — Snowfall “The Season Finale” starring 42 Dugg at Status Restaurant & Lounge (213 Williamson Rd. SE, Roanoke). ($)
• 10 p.m.  — Live music: Half Moon Christmas Jam at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke). Purchase tickets here. ($)

Sunday, December 21 

• 11 a.m. to noon — Yoga with BodyMindSoul Yoga at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem). ($)
• 1 p.m. — Live music and storytelling: The Santa Cares Experience at 5 Points Music Sanctuary (1217 Maple Ave. SW., Roanoke). 
• 3 p.m. — Live music: Sittin’ In with Robbie ft. Chad Nickell at Starr Hill Pilot Brewery & Side Stage (6 Old Whitmore Ave., Roanoke). Shannon’s Birthday Celebration! 
• 3 and 7 p.m. — Live music: Vienna Light Orchestra at the Berglund Performing Arts Theatre (710 Williamson Rd. NE, Roanoke). ($)
• 4:30 to 8 p.m. — Live music: Foster Burton & Friends Benefit for Masterpiece Alliance at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
• 6 to 9 p.m. — Christmas Carol Karaoke with DJ Rob at Atheling Meadworks (123 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke). 

Monday, December 22

• 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.. — Art reception: Jasmine Beane’s “Threads of Kwanzaa: A Celebration in Color and Textiles” at the Gainsboro Library (15 Patton Ave. NW, Roanoke). Beane’s textile art brings the Seven Principles of Kwanzaa to life through bold color, pattern, and symbolism. Each banner blends traditional African fabrics with contemporary design, creating visual stories that honor heritage, unity, and collective purpose. 
• 5 p.m. — Live music: Drew Freeland & The Goodtime Sinners at Parkway Brewing Company (739 Kessler Mill Rd., Salem).
• 6:30 p.m. — Live music: Irish Music Session at Big Lick Brewing Co. (409 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke). 

Tuesday, December 23

• 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). 
• 6:30 p.m. — Live music: Holiday Cookie Swap at Big Lick Brewing Co. (409 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke). Bring your best cookies, share with friends, and pair with some great beers!If you're feeling extra festive, wear your ugly holiday sweater or jammies.
• 8 p.m. — Naughty & Nice Party at Corned Beef & Co. (107 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke). ($)
• 9:30 p.m. — Live music: Christian Q & Co. at Martin’s Downtown Bar and Grill (413 1st St., Roanoke). 

Wednesday, December 24 — Christmas Eve

• 6 p.m. — Buchanan Christmas Eve Luminary Display along Main Street in the Town of Buchanan. Volunteers begin placing luminaries at 3:00 p.m. and lighting begins at 5 p.m. with the candles burning through midnight.

New Year’s Eve Events

• 4 p.m. — Rudolph’s New Year’s Eve Celebration with live music by Hot Fuss at Six and Sky Rooftop Grille (1 Market Sq., Roanoke). ($)
• 6 p.m. — Live music: New Year’s Eve Celebration with the Klaxton Brown Band at the  Taubman Museum of Art (110 Salem Ave. SE, Roanoke). ($)
• 6 p.m. — New Year’s Eve Gala presented by Preceptor Omicron at Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center (110 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). ($)
• 6 p.m.. — Killer Countdown Murder Mystery at Stave & Cork (115 E. Main St., Salem). Play a character, solve clues, and interrogate all of the suspects. Everyone will get their character role at this adults-only murder mystery event, so be sure to arrive on time. Purchase advance tickets. ($)
• 6 p.m. to 3 a.m. — A Night at the Oscars New Year’s Eve Dance Party at The Park Dance Club (615 Salem Ave. SW, Roanoke). ($)
• 6 p.m. — Live music: New Year’s Eve Party at Sidewinders (16 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke). ($)
• 6:30 p.m. — Live music: Same As it Ever Was: Talking Heads Tribute featuring Mojo Sauce Hornsmen at 5 Points Music Sanctuary (1217 Maple Ave. SW., Roanoke). ($)
• 7 p.m. — New Year’s Eve Concert with Kam’ron Smith & Connor Hunt at The Copper Still (25156 Virgil H Goode Hwy, Boones Mill). Live country music from Kam’ron Smith and Connor Hunt With Dj sets in between! Free champagne toast at midnight. ($)
• 8 p.m. — Live music: Grace Potter with Holy Roller at The Exchange Music Hall (201 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke).
• 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. — Live music:New Year's Eve Celtic Fiddling at Atheling Meadworks (123 Campbell Ave. SE, Roanoke). 
• 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. — New Year’s Eve Party at Corned Beef & Co. (107 S. Jefferson St., Roanoke).

Ongoing Festive Events

• Through Dec. 23 — Opening Night: Santa’s Winter Wonderland at Blue Ridge PBS (1215 McNeil Dr., Roanoke). From the moment you arrive at this magical holiday lights drive-through, you’ll be surrounded by twinkling lights, festive music, and whimsical holiday scenes — each one handcrafted with care to capture the spirit of the season. Closed on Mondays. 
• Through Dec. 25 — Land of Lights at Franklin County Recreation Park (2150 Sontag Rd., Rocky Mount). Drive the half mile loop and enjoy the Christmas lights with your whole family! Donations accepted.
• Through Dec. 31 — Botetourt Chamber Tinsel Trail Opening Night in downtown Fincastle. Beautifully decorated trees, specially designed by local businesses and organizations. 
• Through Jan 1 — Fashions for Evergreens at Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center (110 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). 
• Through Jan. 2 — Vintage Fantasyland exhibit at O. Winston Link Museum (101 Shenandoah Ave. NW, Roanoke). The vintage Fantasyland decorations from the old Heironomous location in downtown Roanoke will be on display at the museum this season. Regular admission applies. While you’re in the building, check out the Deck the Doors event in the Virginia’s Blue Ridge lobby, featuring doors creatively decorated by local businesses, artists, and nonprofits. Visitors can vote for their favorite door— with dollars — to support the museum’s mission. (Note: Santa will be appearing at the Taubman Museum of Art this year.) ($)
• Through Jan. 3 — Buchanan Festival of Trees in the Town of Buchanan (19753 Main St.). Admission by donation. ($)
• Through Jan. 3 — Buchanan Festival of Lights in the Town of Buchanan (19753 Main St., Buchanan). The Lights will be on each evening beginning November 29th through January 3rd, with admission by donation. For additional information please call the Buchanan Town Hall at 540-254-1212. ($)
• Through Jan. 4 — Illuminights at Explore Park (56 Roanoke River Parkway Rd., Roanoke). Wander a half-mile wooded trail filled with over 650,000 dazzling lights, new themes, and festive fun for the whole family. ($)
• Through Jan. 5 — The Elf on the Shelf Adventure presented by Downtown Roanoke, Inc. all around Downtown Roanoke. Come on a fun scavenger hunt and find the Scout Elves hiding in downtown stores. Find them all and be entered for a chance to win $1,000. See website for rules. 

Ongoing

• Through December 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 December 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. ($)
• Weekends through Dec. 31 — S’mores on the Courtyard at Hotel Roanoke and Conference Center (110 Shenandoah Ave., Roanoke). Pick up the S'mores Kit in STEAM Coffee + Eatery while making new friends, sharing stories and enjoying the tradition of making S’mores. Every weekend in December. ($)
• 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.