Good morning, Lynchburg.

Bedford County was awarded a $1 million USDA Rural Community Facilities Grant — the funds will be used to restore the former Montvale school building on U.S. 460.

The project will help preserve this historic community asset for future use.

On Friday, the Lynchburg Police Department announced the passing of retired K9 Arko—who served from 2016 to 2021 and earned awards for bravery—and officers say he was a loyal guardian whose heroic actions forged an unbreakable bond with his handler Lieutenant Godsie.

On Thursday, Horizon Behavioral Health opened its new Crisis Care Center in Lynchburg.

The center now offers mental health & substance abuse support to local residents.

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.

Morgan Wade Live Performance

7:30-9 p.m. — Historic Theatre at the Academy Center of the Arts — $39 – $87 — Experience powerful storytelling through Morgan Wade's music reflecting her journey of self-discovery and resilience.

Candlelight: Christmas Carols on Strings

4:30-5:30 p.m. — Sydnor Performance Hall — $ — Experience a candlelit string performance of beloved Christmas carols in a festive atmosphere.