Community Events
Belle Grove decorated for the holidays and open for touring December 4-30, 2020
Belle Grove will host, for the first time, the Kris Kringle Outdoor Market on Saturday, December 5, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. and Sunday, December 6, 1-5 p.m. It will have local artisan and craft vendors, socially distanced in the upper level of the Beverley B. Shoemaker Welcome Center and around the property. Masks will be required for everyone 5 and older both indoors and outside (unless eating or drinking). There will also be Storytime with Santa on the front lawn. Food will be sold by Shaffer’s BBQ Food Truck on Saturday. Admission to the Market is free, but there is a fee to tour the Manor House.
“We are delighted to be able to offer this outdoor market,” said Executive Director Kristen Laise. “It is a great way to support local businesses and artisans, while providing a safe holiday shopping experience for our community.”
In December, Belle Grove Plantation including the Beverley B. Shoemaker Welcome Center (which includes the Museum Shop, exhibits, and restrooms) is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Friday-Saturday 10 a.m.-8 p.m., and Sunday 1-5 p.m. Belle Grove will be closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and will close for the winter on December 31.
Guided house tours are offered Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. with tours beginning at quarter past each hour (first tour at 10:15 a.m. and last tour at 3:15 p.m.) and on Sunday 1-5 p.m. (first tour at 1:15 p.m. and last tour at 4:15 p.m.). On Friday and Saturday evenings 4-8 p.m. visitors are welcome to take self-guided tours, the Manor House will be lit by candlelight, and there will be live music in the Parlor from 6-8 p.m. (schedule at www.bellegrove.org). These hours could be subject to change given the ongoing pandemic.
Guided tours of the Manor House have been modified to accommodate physical distancing. There is a limit of ten guests per tour and admission is sold on-site only and on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests over the age of 5 are required to wear masks over their nose and mouth while on the property and maintain six feet of distance from others in the Museum Shop and when looking at exhibits.
Admission for both guided and self-guided Manor House tours is $12 for adults, $11 for members of the military, AAA, the National Parks, and individuals 60 and older. Students 6-16 and National Trust for Historic Preservation members are $6. Children 5 and younger are free. Belle Grove members are free of charge as benefit of their membership. Visitors may join Belle Grove and immediately use this benefit at Christmas along with 10% off non-consignment purchases in the Museum Shop.
The Shenandoah Valley Tapestry is on display in the Beverley B. Shoemaker Welcome Center until December 30. In its honor, the 2020 Belle Grove holiday decorating theme is a “A Homespun Holiday” and features crafts in addition to natural decorations throughout the Manor House.
Belle Grove volunteers decorated the front porch and carriage on the lawn and the Apple Valley Garden Club decorated the Manor House’s front hall, which welcomes visitors as they arrive. The Glen Burnie Garden Club’s decorations in the Parlor surround the 12-foot Norway Spruce Christmas tree donated by John and Judith Tole of Evergreen Christmas Tree Farm in Woodville, Virginia. Middletown Garden Club decorated the Library and Hawthorne Garden Club decorated the Day Sitting Room. Winchester-Clarke Garden Club decorated the Office, and the Little Garden Club of Winchester decorated the Dining Room. Colonial Garden Club decorated the Nursery and Warren County Garden Club decorated the Gold Bedroom. Shenandoah Garden Club of Woodstock decorated the Winter Kitchen and the Northern Shenandoah Valley Master Gardeners Association provided natural and craft decorations in the other rooms of the lower level of the Manor House.
The Shenandoah Valley Tapestry, a community stitching project which was done between 2015 and 2018, depicts in embroidery the painting Winchester and Frederick County, Virginia by Page Huff Dillon, which was in turn, was inspired by the book Defend the Valley by Margaretta Barton Colt. It meticulously illustrates historic sites in Winchester and Frederick County, including Belle Grove. Eighty-one stitchers of all skill levels and ages, from across five states and from abroad worked on the Tapestry. Through community outreach events, 1,400 community members also made one stitch in this unique artwork. There is no admission to see the tapestry on display at Belle Grove.
“We thank Belle Grove for hosting the Tapestry, especially during holiday touring. It has become a tradition for the project’s stitchers to thank the hosting organization with a special needlework project. Since the Manor House was embroidered for the Tapestry, we decided to choose the image of the Plantation Office and Shop for the new community stitching. All are welcome to come and take a stitch. No embroidery skills are required. Afterwards, the piece will be finished by the Shenandoah Valley artists and donated to Belle Grove,” said Irina Galunina the Shenandoah Valley Project Manager.
Belle Grove Plantation is a non-profit historic house museum that is a National Trust for Historic Preservation site and a partner in Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park. It is located off Route 11 at 336 Belle Grove Road south of Middletown, Virginia. Information and updates on holiday tours may be found at www.bellegrove.org or at www.facebook.com/BelleGrove.
Community Events
Blooms and Blossoms: 34th Annual Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Fair at Blandy Farm
The picturesque Blandy Experimental Farm in Boyce, Virginia, will host the 34th Annual Mother’s Day Weekend Garden Fair, inviting enthusiasts to celebrate the beauty of spring amidst blooming flora. Scheduled for May 11-12, 2024, from 9 am to 4 pm, this enduring event coincides with the blossoms of the State Arboretum of Virginia, providing a perfect backdrop for families celebrating Mother’s Day.
Attracting visitors from a radius of up to 300 miles, including those from Clarke, Frederick, Shenandoah, Warren, and Loudoun Counties, the Garden Fair is renowned for its wide variety of native plants, annuals, perennials, herbs, trees, and shrubs. Beyond plants, attendees can shop for garden tools and nature-inspired crafts and enjoy an array of children’s activities, music, and delectable food options. Melanie Mullinax, Communications and Events Manager at Blandy, emphasized the fair’s role as a seasonal highlight, drawing thousands of plant lovers eager to explore new and favorite vendors alike.
As the principal fundraising event for the Foundation of the State Arboretum, the Garden Fair plays a crucial role in supporting the Arboretum’s educational programs and the maintenance of its diverse plant collections. “Shopping at the Garden Fair is more than just making a purchase—it’s about enjoying and contributing to the preservation of nature,” Mullinax noted.
Rain or shine, the event promises a weekend of natural beauty and community spirit. Tickets are priced at $10 per car in advance, available through Eventbrite, or $15 at the gate, with each ticket valid for both days of the fair.
Blandy Experimental Farm, a 712-acre University of Virginia research facility, is devoted to enhancing the understanding of the natural environment. Its grounds, which house the State Arboretum of Virginia, are open to the public year-round, featuring walking trails, gardens, and a Native Plant Trail for educational tours.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit the Blandy Experimental Farm website at www.blandy.virginia.edu.
Community Events
Bethel Life Church Hosts Community Seder Meal
On April 28th, 2024, the Bethel Life Church invites community members to a special Seder Meal held at the Bethel Community Center in Front Royal, VA. This event is set to begin at 10:30 a.m. and offers an opportunity for great food and fellowship.
The Seder Meal is a tradition that commemorates the Passover, marking the Israelites’ liberation from Egyptian slavery. It’s a time of reflection and community, filled with symbolic foods and stories that resonate with themes of freedom and renewal. The Bethel Life Church’s event is open to all, aiming to bring together people from diverse backgrounds to share in this meaningful experience.
Located at 49 Kendrick Ford Road, the Bethel Community Center provides the perfect setting for this gathering. The event promises to offer a taste of traditional foods and a chance to connect with others in the community. It’s an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in experiencing a Seder and learning more about this significant historical and religious event.
For more information, visit the church’s website at www.bethellife.org or contact them directly at 540.635.1826. Whether you’re familiar with the Seder tradition or curious to experience it for the first time, Bethel Life Church welcomes you to join them for a day of remembrance, community, and celebration.
Community Events
“Wings and Wheels” Event Takes Flight at Front Royal-Warren County Airport
Front Royal-Warren County Airport is gearing up for its anticipated “Wings and Wheels” event, a community celebration that combines the thrill of aviation with the charm of classic cars. Scheduled for Saturday, May 11th, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., this event promises a day full of activities, showcasing aircraft and vintage automobiles, with something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Julie van Jaarsveld and Sean Roe, from the airport team, shared insights into the day’s festivities, which will kick off with a pancake breakfast hosted by the Friends of Front Royal Airport at 8 a.m. The breakfast is an excellent opportunity for early risers to fuel up before diving into the day’s activities.
Visitors can expect to see a variety of aircraft displayed on the ramp, offering up-close photo opportunities and the chance to interact with pilots and aviation enthusiasts. Food vendors, including Buffalo Wild Wings and DonutNV, will be on-site to cater to culinary tastes, while the social highlight of the morning, a pancake breakfast, promises a delicious start to the festivities.
The event isn’t just about viewing planes; it includes a car show that awards prizes for the “farthest traveled” and “People’s Choice,” both for airplanes and cars. The local skydiving team will also perform demonstration jumps, adding an adrenaline-pumping element to the day. For those intrigued by skydiving, discounted tandem jumps will be available post-event, and raffles will offer chances to win skydives and discovery flights.
The “Wings and Wheels” isn’t merely a fun day out; it’s a showcase of the airport’s value to the community, often unrecognized. As Sean noted, the airport is a crucial hub for general aviation and plays a significant role in local tourism and the economy. The event aims to highlight these contributions and strengthen community ties through shared interests in aviation and automobiles.
Whether you’re an aviation aficionado, a car enthusiast, or just looking for a unique way to spend a Saturday, the “Wings and Wheels” event at Front Royal-Warren County Airport promises to deliver an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Don’t miss the chance to explore the wonders of flight and the beauty of classic cars in the scenic backdrop of Front Royal, happen on May 11, 2024.
Town Talk is a series on the Royal Examiner where we will introduce you to local entrepreneurs, businesses, non-profit leaders, and political figures who influence Warren County. Topics will be varied but hopefully interesting. Let us know if you have an idea topic or want to hear from someone in our community. Send your request to news@RoyalExaminer.com
Community Events
Samuels Public Library Adult Programming Events for May
You can find and register for all library events on our website, www.samuelslibrary.net.
The Library will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 27th.
One-Time Events
Bird ID and Photography
Saturday, May 18th from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
In person. We will meet at the Shenandoah River State Park visitor center to review bird identification and tips of photographing birds. After the meeting at the visitor center, we will explore habitats that birds frequent to observe them and photograph these flying wonders. Sturdy footwear is recommended. All types of cameras from smartphones to professional cameras and levels of photographers are welcomed. Note: State Park parking fees rules apply for attending this program. The Library has a limited number of LVA state park bags with passes. Availability is not guaranteed.
Ongoing Programs
What the Tech!
Every Tuesday from 2:00 PM to 3:30 PM
In person. Need help with technology? Come by the library’s Meeting Room B where we will be going over computers and other technology basics. Having trouble with your phone, tablet, laptop, or other device? Bring it in, and we’ll help!
Bad Romance
Wednesday, May 1st from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
First Wednesday of every month.
In person. Do you consider yourself a hopeless romantic? Are bad romances a guilty pleasure of yours? Can’t get enough puns? Can you quote every line from your favorite rom-com? Then you should join us for Bad Romance, where Samuels Public Library will have a themed discussion for the romance genre every month. Indulge us with your favorite romance books, movies, music or other media, and possibly discover a new treat in this awesome informal discussion! New members are always welcome!
Genealogy Club
Wednesday, May 8th from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Second Wednesday of every month.
In person. Interested in your family’s history? Already done extensive research and want to be able to share your finds? Join our genealogy club where both novices and experts alike can come together and talk about different genealogy topics.
Books & Beyond
Thursday, May 9th from 6:00 PM to 7:45 PM
Second Thursday of every month.
In person. Do you love books and sharing them as much as we do? Join us to delve into new worlds of conversation about new books at your community’s public library! The theme this month is Nature. Read anything relating to nature, animals, the outdoors, plants, etc!
Phoenix Project – Hope for New Beginnings
Tuesday, May 29th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Third Tuesday of every month.
In person. Serving all members of the Front Royal/Warren County community who have experienced or are currently experiencing domestic violence or sexual assault. Phoenix Project Advocates are available to provide crisis intervention, supportive counseling, safety planning, information, education, and more. Their services are free, confidential, and trauma-informed. Hope. Help. Healing.
Community Events
Earth Day Environmental Commitment Event Sees a Citizen Commitment to Tree Plantings
By whichever name you prefer: Earth, Lone Pine, or Tree Giveaway Day in Front Royal, Sunday, April 21, was a rousing success and then some! That is unless you got there much after 11 a.m. and were looking for one of those 450 native species trees being given away through a grant from the Department of Forestry. We’ll let Aces Committee supporting member Chris Rademacher, who was manning the tree distribution table when we arrived, explain:
“This was an awesome grant from the Department of Forestry. It was funded through their Virginia Trees for Clean Water Program. So, it was a $7,000 grant and we bought these trees and we’re giving them away to the community during our Front Royal Earth Day, Lone Pine Day Festival. And they’re all gone,” Rademacher observed shortly after 11 a.m. before we noted three lonely trees sitting somewhat obscured at some distance behind his table and over toward East Main Street.
Wait, what — nearly 450 trees distributed to citizens attending the festival gone in just over an hour into the 10 a.m. event scheduled to run to 3 p.m. If we recall correctly, 250 trees were given away at last year’s event.
“We had a line of about 45 people waiting for trees at 10 a.m. It was pretty intense. And so we had this really nice flow throughout, I guess it’s only been an hour — And what time is it, 11:20, so about an hour and 20 minutes and all of our trees are gone except for three,” Rademacher said of the steady run on the grant-enabled tree give-away.
And while all trees appeared to have been claimed by about 11:30 a.m. there were still nearly four hours left for informational booth visiting, mingling with friends old or newly made, grabbing a snack at healthy food table displays or a food vendor booth, not to mention getting to know some of the Heavenly Heart Petting Zoo animals before the 3 p.m. final stop would be called.
Of the Earth/Lone Pine Day event, we found this from an online search for Front Royal’s Earth Day event: “Whether you’ve been a part of previous events or are joining for the first time, kick off Spring with us and showcase your commitment to the environment! The event will connect you with diverse, nature-oriented conservation groups that showcase environmental stewardship at its best.”
So, in case you missed it, or just want to be reminded of all the fun you had by not missing it, enjoy this event photo run. And never forget, the earth we leave behind is a key portion of our generational legacy to all generations to come. Certainly something worth gathering to remember and recommit to annually.
Community Events
Front Royal Gears Up for 9th Annual Family Fun Day with a Focus on Community and Tradition
Front Royal is buzzing with excitement as the community prepares for the 9th Annual Family Fun Day, a cherished tradition that brings together families, local artisans, and performers to celebrate Mother’s Day weekend (May 11th) with flair and festivity. This year’s event promises a vibrant mix of activities, including a beloved local crawfish boil, bringing a taste of Louisiana to Virginia.
As the brainchild of local personalities William Huck (aka Crazy Wyllie) and his wife and partner Nina, Family Fun Day has grown from a simple gathering into a major community event. Now in its ninth year, the day is meticulously organized to foster community spirit and celebrate local culture. “Life is too short not to live it to the fullest,” says Crazy Wyllie, who is known for his energetic presence and deep community ties.
The festival kicks off with a parade featuring local groups and colorful floats, setting the stage for a day filled with music, dance, and family-oriented activities. Among the highlights are the crawfish boil, which sells out annually, and various workshops and demonstrations ranging from Frisbee golf to blacksmithing.
This year, approximately 55 vendors, most of whom are from Warren County, will showcase their crafts, contributing to the event’s local flavor. This focus on local talent is a pivot from past practices, aiming to promote community-based economic growth and celebrate regional artisans.
The entertainment lineup is as eclectic as it is exciting. It includes performances by the Jig and Jive Dance Studio and Music Mountain School, promising a day filled with dynamic entertainment. “I love to dance,” admits William, who also participates in the dance performances, adding a personal touch to the festivities.
Family Fun Day is more than just a celebration; it’s a philanthropic event that gives back to the community. Proceeds from the day are donated to local non-profits, demonstrating a commitment to supporting the local community that extends beyond a single day of fun.
“The stronger we are together, the stronger we are unstoppable,” William reflects on the community’s cohesion. This sentiment echoes through the event’s planning, emphasizing inclusivity and mutual support.
As Family Fun Day continues to grow, so does its impact on Front Royal. From revitalizing local traditions to fostering economic and cultural growth, the event is a cornerstone of community engagement. With each passing year, it weaves deeper into the fabric of local life, promising to be a source of joy and community pride for years to come.