Articles From May/June 2026

Mama Jean’s Barbecue’s slow-smoked meats and soulful sides make it a dining destination.

Best-in-Class ‘Cue

Mama Jean’s Barbecue slings slow-smoked meats, soulful sides, and sought-after specials.
Recreating a Dreamy Blue Kitchen

Recreating a Dreamy Blue Kitchen

Inspired by a beloved former home, this Old Southwest renovation layers sky-blue cabinetry, warm metallic accents, and tailored updates into a kitchen that feels timeless yet entirely personal.
Courtesy of City of Roanoke

Any Way the Water Flows

Century-old tunnels hide a secret beneath the city.
Lakeside Amusement Park was built in 1920 on Mason's Creek., Courtesy of Roanoke Public Libraries.

A Lost Gem

Tanglewood has evolved dramatically in recent months and now includes a YMCA and Carilion Children’s healthcare unit.

As the Mall Evolves

Shopping centers come in all shapes and sizes, and their drawing cards are expanding dramatically in the Roanoke Valley. 
Since COVID, travelers are seeking lodgings that offer personal service and one-of-a-kind experiences. Recently opened properties aim to meet that demand. Examples include The Liberty Trust, Colony House Motor Lodge, and Roanoke Boutique Hotel in Roanoke and the Rowland Hotel in Salem.

A Stay to Remember

Roanoke-area boutique hotels are on the rise.
Local Colors Festival May 16 Elmwood Park

Events Calendar May/June 2026

Top May and June Events Around the Roanoke Area
Bruce and Peggy Todaro on the deck of the Green Goat, with the Wasena Bridge behind them.

Wasena Will Come Full Circle Soon

The new bridge, skate park, and blueway will be welcomed by pedestrians, businesses, and customers. 
Artist Casey Murano discussed her watercolor, Come On, Surprise Me, at an artist talk.

Inspired by Nature

The celebration of a heralded book leads to ongoing community projects.
Artist Brian Counihan, Roanoke Arts and Culture Coordinator Douglas Jackson, and other artists and community members create people-centered floats for this year’s Daisy Art Parade in the main floor of Art Project Roanoke, located in the heart of downtown.

Where Everyone’s an Artist

Art Project Roanoke hosts community events on the first floor and artist studios above.