Good morning, Lynchburg.

The Freedom to Give Donation Drive is live as Freedom First Credit Union partners with Feeding Southwest Virginia to support local families with donations.

The program began on Jul. 17 and is accepting contributions from community members today.

Pirate Days returns for its 13th year as a fundraising celebration for local children, featuring a costume contest, live music and volunteer activities that draw visitors from near and far.

The event moves to Wind Vineyard today to accommodate low water levels & keep the festive spirit.

Main Street reopened Friday, July 17 for two-way traffic between the Lynchburg Expressway and Commerce Street (ending a detour via Court Street).

A ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held Tuesday, July 21 at 9:30 a.m. in front of the Lynchburg Community Market as Downtown Renewal Phase IV nears completion.

Raven Lounge on Main St. will close permanently on July 26 after an unexpected building sale led the owners to step away, and live music will continue at a new venue organized by the team preparing to purchase the business.

Showtimers Community Theatre presents The Drowsy Chaperone at its local venue + performance dates and ticket information will be announced soon.

The Department of Water Resources announced Friday that residents and businesses should use water wisely amid a drought warning, though current protocols do not require restrictions (no new measures).

Officials said they will monitor the Pedlar Reservoir and the James River to adjust plans if needed.

Local farms and water supplies are facing strain from a worsening drought in the area.

Governor Spanberger addressed the issue on Jul. 16 — officials are reviewing potential water restrictions to conserve resources.

Virginia lawmakers met with farmers at Hammock Dairy Farm on Friday to kick off an agriculture tour, where they discussed the 2026 farm bill and raised concerns about rising production costs and workforce challenges while planning future actions in the Senate.

Smoke from Ontario wildfires is lowering Lynchburg's air quality today, with AQI readings at 177 and forecasts of moderate to unhealthy levels for sensitive groups.

Officials advise residents to limit strenuous outdoor activity and take precautions like closing windows (or using HEPA filters) to protect against smoke.

NBA all-star Ralph Sampson visited the Lynchburg Boys and Girls Club on Friday to share his basketball career insights and life lessons with local youth.

The Hall of Famer plans to return with his sons to host future clinics and a scholarship program for kids.

The War And Treaty Concert

7:30 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — Tickets available — Experience the powerful, soul-stirring sounds of husband-and-wife duo The War And Treaty in an unforgettable live performance.

Bespoke Tote Bag Workshop

10:00 – 11:30 AM — Riverviews Artspace — $35.00 — Create a unique tote bag with colorful fabric hummingbirds in a no-sew workshop led by artist Katie Martin.

Old Crow Medicine Show Concert

7-9 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — Pricing not specified — Experience a vibrant celebration of American string-band tradition with a dynamic performance by Old Crow Medicine Show.