Event Type: Family Fun

Local basket artisan, Clyde Jenkins, returns to Shenandoah to share his talent of basket making.  Clyde teaches participants how to make a white-oak basket with techniques handed down through the generations.  All materials provided to make one basket. Structured for beginners to intermediate.

Held Thursdays beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive).

• $80.00 per person.
• All materials provided to make one white-oak basket.
• Structured for beginners to intermediate.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!

Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece – no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

Held July 2, 13, & 23 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive).

• $50.00 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11″ x 14″ canvas painting.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

From the legendary authors of Fiddler on the Roof, She Loves Me is one of the most charming romantic comedies ever written. Based on the timeless story that inspired “The Shop Around the Corner” and “You’ve Got Mail”, two feuding shop clerks secretly fall in love as anonymous pen pals. With its lush, romantic score and witty humor, this is a joyous celebration of finding love where you least expect it. (Rated G)

Subscriptions, group sales reservations, and single tickets on sale now! For subscriptions and group sales, please contact the Box Office at boxoffice@su.edu or call 540-665-4569, Monday-Friday, 12-5 pm.

Big Meadows Area (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Hike into the “big meadow” at dusk through the changing colors of the mountain sky and, eventually, the early arrival of night skies as you explore the natural world as it settles into evening. The focus of this hike will be looking for animal signs and seasonal plants as you explore the ecosystems of the meadows. Led by Shenandoah Mountain Guides.

• July 11, 14, 25, & 28
• $30.00 per person
• Reservations required and full payment due at booking, call 877-847-1919.
• A minimum of 15 paying participants required for hike to operate.
• 48-hour cancellation notice provided if program is cancelled due to minimum not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• If less than 48-hour cancellation notice received from participant, deposit is non-refundable.
• Hike will take place in all weather conditions excluding thunderstorms. Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on its status.

Big Meadows Area (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Topic: Venus, 17% Moon, Milky Way

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars.
• Presentation cancelled if there is inclement weather.
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Shenandoah National Park — Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Jeff Alt, a talented speaker and award-winning author of A Walk for Sunshine, enjoys sharing his 2,160-mile Appalachian Trail adventures with Shenandoah National Park visitors. Free.

Jeff uses humor and adventure in a story telling format. His presentations involve music, slides, and personal narration. Alt, an expert hiker, has been featured on Discovery Channel.com and many more. Alt’s books, The Adventures of Bubba Jones: Time Traveling Through Shenandoah National Park and Get Your Kids Hiking: How to Start Them Young and Keep it Fun, are inspiring families to literally, take a hike.

Formed in Detroit in 1953, The Four Tops became one of the most enduring and influential vocal groups in American music history, helping define the “Motown Sound” with hits like “Baby I Need Your Loving”, “I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)” and “Reach Out I’ll Be There”. Unlike many groups of their era, The Four Tops maintained their original lineup for over four decades and earned numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.

Shenandoah Valley Music Festival
217 Shrine Mont Circle
Orkney Springs, VA 22845

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 9:00 p.m.  A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

• The Future of US Crewed Spaceflight – Learn where NASA is headed, literally, with new manned spacecraft and rockets to launch the next generation of American astronauts.

Dayton’s New Heirloom Markets Celebrate Shenandoah Valley Tradition

There’s something timeless about a summer evening in Dayton, Virginia.

The scent of fresh-baked bread drifts through the air. Neighbors gather along historic streets. Farmers proudly display produce grown on land that has been family farmed for generations, while artisans share handmade goods crafted with care and tradition. Beginning this summer, visitors and locals alike will have a new way to experience the heritage and hospitality of the Shenandoah Valley through Dayton’s upcoming Heirloom Markets.

Launching on the fourth Thursday of each month from June through September, the Heirloom Markets will transform three of Dayton’s most treasured historic sites into a vibrant celebration of local agriculture, craftsmanship, food, music, and community. Markets will take place from 5–8 p.m. on June 25, July 23, August 27, and September 24.

The event is a collaborative effort between Rocktown History, Fort Harrison, and Virginia Quilt Museum at Silver Lake Mill — organizations deeply rooted in preserving and sharing the Valley’s history. Together, they are creating more than a traditional farmers market. Organizers describe the markets as “a heritage experience,” designed to connect visitors with the people, traditions, and stories that continue to shape the Shenandoah Valley.

Three Locations for Each Event:

Fort Harrison
335 Main St., Dayton

Virginia Quilt Museum
at Silver Lake Mill
2328 Silver Lake Rd., Dayton

Rocktown History
382 High St., Dayton

For additional event information, vendor applications, and updates, visit Rocktown History’s Heirloom Markets page.

Before she was a legend, she was a girl with a dream. Follow Carole King’s remarkable rise from writing hits for others to finding her own voice as an icon. With unforgettable classics like “You’ve Got a Friend,” “One Fine Day,” “Natural Woman,” and “I Feel the Earth Move,” this Tony Award-winning hit captures the spirit, sound, and soul of an extraordinary artist. (Rated PG)

Subscriptions, group sales reservations, and single tickets on sale now! For subscriptions and group sales, please contact the Box Office at boxoffice@su.edu or call 540-665-4569, Monday-Friday, 12-5 pm.

Skyland Lower Lawn Area and Skyland Historic Conference Building (mile 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive)

Amateur astronomer Frank Perfetti will share with you his love for this great universe and talk about what you are actually looking at when you see the sky.  Presentations take place at Skyland , and will begin with Solar Viewing on the lower lawn area at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the historic conference building beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing on the lower lawn area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Historic Conference Building

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 9:00 p.m. A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

• The Milky Way and You – August is “Milky Way Month”. Learn how to view the Milky Way and more about the fascinating GALAXY in which we live, are made from, and are part of.

Big Meadows Area (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Topic: Venus, Milk Way, 94% Moon @ 10pm

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars.
• Presentation cancelled if there is inclement weather.
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 9:00 p.m.  A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

The Future of US Crewed Spaceflight – Learn where NASA is headed, literally, with new manned spacecraft and rockets to launch the next generation of American astronauts.

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!

Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece – no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

Held August 3, 13 & 24 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive).

• $50.00 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11″ x 14″ canvas painting.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Local basket artisan, Clyde Jenkins, returns to Shenandoah to share his talent of basket making.  Clyde teaches participants how to make a white-oak basket with techniques handed down through the generations.  All materials provided to make one basket. Structured for beginners to intermediate.

Held Thursdays beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive).

• $80.00 per person.
• All materials provided to make one white-oak basket.
• Structured for beginners to intermediate.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.

Shenandoah National Park — Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive)

Join us at Skyland in Shenandoah National Park on August 7 & 8 as Basic City Brewery will be taking over the Taps from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. We will have live music from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on both days.

ON TAP (check website for menu)

BITES
Fish and Chips  $24.99
Running red lights batter cod, French fries, coleslaw, tartar sauce, lemon

Beer Brats  $17.99
Beer-Poached Bratwurst, Pretzel Bun, Beer Cheese, Peppers, Onions, Fries

Loaded Waffle Fries $16.99
Waffle Fries Beer Cheese, Pulled Pork, Tomato, Red and Green Onion, Jalapeno, Sour Cream

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 9:00 p.m. A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

• Mount Wilson Observatory – Learn about the observatory where discoveries changed our view of the Universe forever.

Big Meadows Area (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Topic: Venus, Milk Way, Perseids meteor shower, Saturn @ midnight (Wednesday night)

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars.
• Presentation cancelled if there is inclement weather.
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Big Meadows Area and Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Amateur astronomer Frank Perfetti will share with you his love for this great universe and talk about what you are actually looking at when you see the sky.  Presentations take place at Big Meadows Lodge, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Shenandoah National Park – Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Learn what to do when the “what ifs” of your outdoor adventures turn into the “now whats”. This course will teach you the best items to take on any outdoor adventure and how to best use them in a survival situation. Led by the Shenandoah Mountain Guides.

• Cost: $175 per person.
• Includes a $20 meal voucher redeemable in the Spottswood Dining Room, Terrace Seating, or New Market Taproom upon completion of the event.
• Reservations required and full payment due at booking. Book online or call 877-847-1919.
• Minimum age: 12 years.
• Event will take place in all weather conditions excluding thunderstorms.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 8:00 p.m.  A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

The Milky Way and You – August is “Milky Way Month”. Learn how to view the Milky Way and more about the fascinating GALAXY in which we live, are made from, and are part of.

Shenandoah National Park — Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive)

Learn about land navigation in the absence of technology – magnetic compass, topographic map, even the sun. Never feel helplessly lost again.  This is a full day course, taught outdoors, in the mountains. All needed equipment is provided.

Reservations required. Visit website for full details and to book online. Led by the Shenandoah Mountain Guides.

$175 per person. Rate includes a boxed lunch featuring Roasted Turkey & Cheddar Cheese on a Potato Bun (Lettuce, Tomato, Mustard, Mayonnaise), Apple, Granola Bar, Bag of Chips, Bottled Water, Paper Napkin/Moist Hand Wipe.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 9:00 p.m.  A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

Mount Wilson Observatory – Learn about the observatory where discoveries changed our view of the Universe forever.

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!

Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece – no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

Held Tuesday – August 25 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Skyland (mile 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive).

• $50.00 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11″ x 14″ canvas painting.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Skyland Lower Lawn Area and Skyland Historic Conference Building (mile 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive)

Amateur astronomer Frank Perfetti will share with you his love for this great universe and talk about what you are actually looking at when you see the sky.  Presentations take place at Skyland , and will begin with Solar Viewing on the lower lawn area at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the historic conference building beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing on the lower lawn area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Historic Conference Building

Dayton’s New Heirloom Markets Celebrate Shenandoah Valley Tradition

There’s something timeless about a summer evening in Dayton, Virginia.

The scent of fresh-baked bread drifts through the air. Neighbors gather along historic streets. Farmers proudly display produce grown on land that has been family farmed for generations, while artisans share handmade goods crafted with care and tradition. Beginning this summer, visitors and locals alike will have a new way to experience the heritage and hospitality of the Shenandoah Valley through Dayton’s upcoming Heirloom Markets.

Launching on the fourth Thursday of each month from June through September, the Heirloom Markets will transform three of Dayton’s most treasured historic sites into a vibrant celebration of local agriculture, craftsmanship, food, music, and community. Markets will take place from 5–8 p.m. on June 25, July 23, August 27, and September 24.

The event is a collaborative effort between Rocktown History, Fort Harrison, and Virginia Quilt Museum at Silver Lake Mill — organizations deeply rooted in preserving and sharing the Valley’s history. Together, they are creating more than a traditional farmers market. Organizers describe the markets as “a heritage experience,” designed to connect visitors with the people, traditions, and stories that continue to shape the Shenandoah Valley.

Three Locations for Each Event:

Fort Harrison
335 Main St., Dayton

Virginia Quilt Museum
at Silver Lake Mill
2328 Silver Lake Rd., Dayton

Rocktown History
382 High St., Dayton

For additional event information, vendor applications, and updates, visit Rocktown History’s Heirloom Markets page.

Big Meadows Area (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Topic: Venus, Full Moon, Saturn @ 11pm

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars.
• Presentation cancelled if there is inclement weather.
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 8:00 p.m.  A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

• New Horizons to Pluto And Beyond – 2015 was the year we got to see Pluto, the dethroned 9th planet of our solar system, up close and personal. Learn about the famous dwarf planet from discovery to flyby to the follow on mission.

Local basket artisan, Clyde Jenkins, returns to Shenandoah to share his talent of basket making.  Clyde teaches participants how to make a white-oak basket with techniques handed down through the generations.  All materials provided to make one basket. Structured for beginners to intermediate.

Held Thursdays beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive).

• $80.00 per person.
• All materials provided to make one white-oak basket.
• Structured for beginners to intermediate.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.

Big Meadows Area and Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Amateur astronomer Frank Perfetti will share with you his love for this great universe and talk about what you are actually looking at when you see the sky.  Presentations take place at Big Meadows Lodge, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Shenandoah National Park – Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Learn what to do when the “what ifs” of your outdoor adventures turn into the “now whats”. This course will teach you the best items to take on any outdoor adventure and how to best use them in a survival situation. Led by the Shenandoah Mountain Guides. Reservations required.

• Cost: $175 per person.
• Includes a $20 meal voucher redeemable in the Spottswood Dining Room, Terrace Seating, or New Market Taproom upon completion of the event.
• Reservations required and full payment due at booking. Book online or call 877-847-1919.
• Minimum age: 12 years.
• Event will take place in all weather conditions excluding thunderstorms.

Shenandoah National Park — Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive)

Join us at Skyland in Shenandoah National Park on September 11 & 12 as Basic City Brewery will be taking over the Taps from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. We will have live music from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on both days.

ON TAP (check website for menu)

BITES
Fish and Chips  $24.99
Running red lights batter cod, French fries, coleslaw, tartar sauce, lemon

Beer Brats  $17.99
Beer-Poached Bratwurst, Pretzel Bun, Beer Cheese, Peppers, Onions, Fries

Loaded Waffle Fries $16.99
Waffle Fries Beer Cheese, Pulled Pork, Tomato, Red and Green Onion, Jalapeno, Sour Cream

Big Meadows Area (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Topic: Venus, Saturn @ 10pm, Milky Way

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars.
• Presentation cancelled if there is inclement weather.
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern for engaging presentations about outer space!

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Presentations are held select dates at Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive) and is free to all park visitors. Program start time is 8:00 p.m.  A jacket is recommended and a flashlight is helpful.

New Horizons to Pluto And Beyond – 2015 was the year we got to see Pluto, the dethroned 9th planet of our solar system, up close and personal. Learn about the famous dwarf planet from discovery to flyby to the follow on mission.

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!

Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece – no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

Held September 14 & 24 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive).

• $50.00 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11″ x 14″ canvas painting.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!

Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece – no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

Held Tuesday – September 15 beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Skyland (mile 4.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive).

• $50.00 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11″ x 14″ canvas painting.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Shenandoah National Park — Skyland (mile 41.7 on Skyline Drive)

Learn about land navigation in the absence of technology – magnetic compass, topographic map, even the sun. Never feel helplessly lost again.  This is a full day course, taught outdoors, in the mountains. All needed equipment is provided.

Reservations required. Visit website for full details and to book online. Led by the Shenandoah Mountain Guides.

$175 per person. Rate includes a boxed lunch featuring Roasted Turkey & Cheddar Cheese on a Potato Bun (Lettuce, Tomato, Mustard, Mayonnaise), Apple, Granola Bar, Bag of Chips, Bottled Water, Paper Napkin/Moist Hand Wipe.

Dayton’s New Heirloom Markets Celebrate Shenandoah Valley Tradition

There’s something timeless about a summer evening in Dayton, Virginia.

The scent of fresh-baked bread drifts through the air. Neighbors gather along historic streets. Farmers proudly display produce grown on land that has been family farmed for generations, while artisans share handmade goods crafted with care and tradition. Beginning this summer, visitors and locals alike will have a new way to experience the heritage and hospitality of the Shenandoah Valley through Dayton’s upcoming Heirloom Markets.

Launching on the fourth Thursday of each month from June through September, the Heirloom Markets will transform three of Dayton’s most treasured historic sites into a vibrant celebration of local agriculture, craftsmanship, food, music, and community. Markets will take place from 5–8 p.m. on June 25, July 23, August 27, and September 24.

The event is a collaborative effort between Rocktown History, Fort Harrison, and Virginia Quilt Museum at Silver Lake Mill — organizations deeply rooted in preserving and sharing the Valley’s history. Together, they are creating more than a traditional farmers market. Organizers describe the markets as “a heritage experience,” designed to connect visitors with the people, traditions, and stories that continue to shape the Shenandoah Valley.

Three Locations for Each Event:

Fort Harrison
335 Main St., Dayton

Virginia Quilt Museum
at Silver Lake Mill
2328 Silver Lake Rd., Dayton

Rocktown History
382 High St., Dayton

For additional event information, vendor applications, and updates, visit Rocktown History’s Heirloom Markets page.

Big Meadows Area (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Topic: Venus? Mercury? Full Moon, Saturn @ 9pm

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars.
• Presentation cancelled if there is inclement weather.
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.