Good morning, Lynchburg.

River Ridge in Lynchburg is hosting many holiday events that start today and run through Christmas Eve, including live music beginning November 24, ornament decorating with the Grinch on December 3 and December 20 from 4 to 6 p.m., a Wonderland market on November 20 and Christmas Eve, and photo sessions with Santa today—with pet photos on Mondays from November 17 until December 15. Other events include Sensory Santa on December 6 and 14 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. and a Mrs. Claus story time on December 9 from 6 to 7 p.m.—all planned to bring festive cheer this season.

On Friday, Pierce Street Gateway held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its new Pavilion and Children’s Play Garden at 1301 Pierce Street in the Pierce Street Historic Renaissance neighborhood.

The project—supported by donors Change for Change Caring Meters and L3Harris—now provides an outdoor space for family activities and community workshops.

Jerry's Kids held its second annual dinner at Bella Vista Hotel in Lynchburg on Thursday night to raise funds for parents seeking to adopt—offering grants up to $12,000 for approved families and having supported nine couples so far.

A Lynchburg elementary school closed on November 14 after a gas leak was detected, and officials evacuated students to ensure safety.

The Lynchburg City School Board voted unanimously to support seven city council legislative priorities for 2026 — including lifelong learning, public safety, and quality of life — and tabled the endorsement of school choice funding.

The board said its vote shows a focus on community improvements for the coming year.

The new parking lot at the Ed Page entrance of the Blackwater Creek Trail is now open to the public and adds 38 parking spaces for visitors.

The project was funded by a $125,000 donation from the Awareness Garden Foundation and City Council, plus minor work remains on the traffic signage and sediment basin.

Exploring the Gardner Heist and the Essence of Art

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Sydnor Performance Hall — Free entry — Delve into the infamous Gardner Museum heist and discover the enduring significance of art in American culture.

Lynchburg Turkey Trot

8-10 a.m. — E.C. Glass High School — Registration opens August 4, 2025 — Gather your flock for a fun-filled turkey trot experience in-person or virtually.

The Blind Boys of Alabama: A Joyful Christmas Celebration

4-6 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $20 – $67 — Celebrate the festive season with the Grammy-winning sounds of The Blind Boys of Alabama in a joyous Christmas performance.

A Christmas Carol

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Wolf Den Downtown — Check local listings — Experience an original adaptation of the beloved holiday classic with your favorite characters.

Reindeer Run 2 Miler

9 A.M. — Hydaway Outdoor Center — Cost varies — Dash through picturesque trails with festive cheer, cookies, and support for a great cause.

DEKA Strong Fitness Challenge

Event — Time Range — Jamerson Family YMCA — Cost Info — Test your strength and endurance without the run in a supportive, high-energy environment.

Dailey & Vincent: Candy Canes and Coal

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $24 – $55 — Experience a festive night filled with holiday classics and heartfelt music from Grammy-winning duo Dailey & Vincent.