Good morning, Lynchburg.

The Lynchburg Beacon of Hope will host HOPEx 2026 this Friday to feature stories of resilience, opportunity and change in our community.

Local residents are invited to join and experience the event in Lynchburg.

Local entrepreneur Lynne Forth will open Needle Ninja in downtown Lynchburg, offering classes and open studio time for those wanting to learn needle arts.

The creative space will help residents start new projects.

A one-person play about Jackie Robinson opened recently in Lynchburg and offers local audiences a fresh look at his legacy and impact on baseball.

The production uses a solo performance to bring the baseball icon’s story to life.

Local groups host hiring events this spring for summer+seasonal jobs in Lynchburg; organizers plan events at community centers and local businesses to offer new employment opportunities.

Randolph College will host a science festival in celebration of all things science on campus, featuring interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.

Community members can explore hands-on learning opportunities at the event soon.

This March has seen record warmth in Lynchburg with 87 degrees on Sunday and other cities neared 88, while forecasts predict 70s and 80s today followed by Friday showers and near freezing temperatures Sunday morning.

April will begin with continued mild heat as the dome shifts.

Virginia has designated three historic sites as state landmarks, including Lynchburg’s Randolph-Macon Woman’s College Historic District, Montvale High School and Roanoke’s Fishburn Park Keeper’s Cottage.

The Commonwealth’s Board of Historic Resources approved the listings on March 19 in Richmond, marking a milestone for the region’s heritage.

Lynchburg fire officials warn residents to follow the burn ban as open fires are allowed only from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today due to dry weather, low humidity & strong winds heightening the risk of rapid brush fire spread.

Gas prices have risen sharply as families face higher costs after the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil route, remains closed due to conflict in Iran; Virginia lawmakers have weighed in and hope a deal to ease the burden will come soon.

Horizon Behavioral Health will soon open a crisis care center in Lynchburg to safely stabilize community members and reduce unnecessary hospitalizations.

Hometown Health hosted a Giving Day for the American Red Cross on March 25; the event invited Lynchburg residents to donate for disaster relief — funds will help support local emergency services.

HOPEx 2026: Hope in Action

Join Lynchburg Beacon of Hope for HOPEx, the 5th annual evening of live storytelling themed “Hope in Action,” featuring local speakers and Lynchburg City Schools alumni making an impact in the community. Emceed by Executive Director Leidra McQueen with music by Flat Five Jazz, the event highlights stories of everyday hope while supporting scholarships, internships, and post-graduation opportunities for Lynchburg’s youth.

Science Day for 3rd-6th Graders

11:45 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Michels Athletic Center, Randolph College — Registration required — Engage in hands-on science activities designed for children in grades 3-6.

Easter Brunch Buffet at Bella Vista

11 AM – 4 PM — Bella Vista Hotel & Suites — Price TBA — Delight in a festive Easter brunch featuring a bountiful buffet and chef-carved specialties.

Verona Quartet Concert

3-5 p.m. — Randolph College — Ticket info not provided — Experience the acclaimed Verona Quartet, known for their cohesive and dynamic performances.

Passion Pickleball Tournament

10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Ivy Hill Golf Club — Free entry — Grab a paddle and play with purpose while making a difference in the community.

Hickory Crawdads vs. Hill City Howlers

6-7 p.m. — Bank of the James Stadium — Secure your seats — Experience the excitement of the Hickory Crawdads live in action.

501 Coyotes Live Performance

8-10 p.m. — Academy Center of the Arts — Check venue for ticket pricing — Experience the raw, energetic blend of punk and country from Lynchburg's own 501 Coyotes.