Friends of Old Town

Author Event: Brian Gilmore - No More Worlds to Conquer
2026-04-11 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
More than a historical account, No More Worlds to Conquer is a personal exploration that bridges the past and the present. Gilmore, who was born and raised in DC, illuminates this history and reflects on his own place in its literary tradition. This multigenerational account will resonate with poetry enthusiasts, local DC scholars, and anyone interested in the rich traditions of African American literature.

Author Event: Greg Kujala - Fifty Artists of the Shenandoah Valley
2026-04-12 12:00 - 14:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
This first Volume of Artists of the Shenandoah Valleyprovides an in-depth look at the most talented creatives working out of theShenandoah Valley in Virginia and West Virginia. An often overlooked group ofartists, this collection presents a vibrant and multifaceted selection of theart world, showcasing inspiration and ideas from across the big valley.

ReadStart with Rowan
2026-04-13 16:00 - 17:00 | Youth Development Center, 302 S Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
ReadStart is a twice-weekly literacy program that provides young learners with a strong foundation in early reading skills, combined with individualized tutoring support. Designed for children ages 7-12 who may need additional help in fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, this program aims to boost reading confidence, close literacy gaps, and foster a lifelong love of reading.
The program integrates evidence-based literacy instruction, small group work, and one-on-one support to meet each child at their current level and help them grow.

Author Event: Jeff Bennett - The Black Belt of Virginia: Untold Stories of African American History
2026-04-18 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
See the history of more than seventy Black communities lost in Virginia. Read the story of a 135-year-old church and the meaning behind land passed down through generations. These stories show the strength and impact of Black families before and after slavery. Perfect for history lovers and older readers, this collection brings forgotten voices back to life.

Author Event: Joshua Putnam - A Heavy Metal History Lesson
2026-04-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
A Heavy Metal History Lesson is the world’s first collection of stories that delve into the historical events and figures that inspired ten different heavy metal songs. Art has long served as a vessel for history—whether through poetry, musicals, literature, or film—presenting world history to the masses, with varying degrees of accuracy. A Heavy Metal History Lesson aims to educate headbangers about world history and the events that inspired some of their favorite tracks!

Independent Bookstore Day 2026
2026-04-25 | V
JOIN US FOR THE 13TH ANNUAL INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE DAY!
This national one-day party held the last Saturday in April celebrates independent bookstores across the country online and in-store. Through exclusive books and literary items, celebrations, and everything in between, it’s a book party you don’t want to miss!

Independent Bookstore Day 2026
2026-04-25 | V
The Winchester Book Gallery is delighted to be celebrating the 13th Independent Bookstore Day! We will be open 9 am to 9 pm with fun for everyone! There will be snacks and book fun all day long! Please stop in: play and shop with us!

NOVA+ Bookstore Crawl
2026-04-25 - 2026-05-31 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Celebrate Independent Bookstore Day and kick off a month-long literary adventure with the 2026 Bookstore Crawl! Beginning April 25, swing by any participating indie bookstore to pick up your official printed passport, then start exploring throughout the month of May.

Greener Living Day at The YDC!
2026-04-25 11:00 - 16:00 | Youth Development Center, 302 S Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Greener Living Day is a free, community-centered sustainability event hosted by The YDC, designed to inspire environmentally conscious living through education, hands-on experiences, and local connection. This free event brings together families, community members, and local organizations for a day focused on learning, growing, and working toward a greener future.
Throughout the day, attendees can explore interactive planting and horticulture stations, learn practical sustainability tips from guest speakers, and connect with local businesses and organizations committed to environmental stewardship. Participants will have the opportunity to plant something of their own, either to take home or to contribute to The YDC’s growing community garden, a youth-led initiative that will continue beyond the event.
Greener Living Day also features live music, art, and ongoing activities that make sustainability accessible, engaging, and fun for all ages. With presentations on plant care, greener living practices, and the value of sustainability in everyday life, the event offers meaningful takeaways while celebrating community collaboration.
At its heart, Greener Living Day is about bringing people together, strengthening local partnerships, and empowering youth and families to play an active role in caring for the world around them. We invite the community to join us for a day of learning, connection, and shared responsibility as we grow something lasting together.
LIVE PERFORMANCE BY: The 5th Mode Collective
Confirmed Community Partners:
Moon Base Farm
Michael Recycle
Hillary Sortor
The Nature Journaling Club
WinReady
Jordan Herring, The Native Plant Festival
Bee City USA
Northern Shenandoah Valley Extension Master Gardener Association
WSPCA
Julia Carter and Carie Holbrook, Public Services
Sustainability Matters
Publisher Holistic Living Now
The Station Mobile Cafe
Apple Hill Farm

Author Event: Will Hackman - Radically Reframing Climate Change: A Guide to Saving Ourselves
2026-04-25 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Author Will Hackman identifies three main obstacles to solving climate change: polarization, paralysis, and stale, ineffective messaging. He empowers readers to turn their anxiety or apathy into passion, and anger into action at the personal, community, and government levels. Come celebrate Apple Blossom, Independent Bookstore Day, and Will Hackman’s new release! He will be here to sign books, answer questions about his book, and chat about anything climate related.

Author Event: Katherine Applegate, Kate DiCamillo, John Schu
2026-04-28 17:00 - 19:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Kate DiCamillo is one of America’s most beloved storytellers. She is a former National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, a two-time Newbery Medalist, and the author of Orris and Timble: The Beginning and Orris and Timble: Lost and Found. John Schu was previously the Ambassador of School Libraries for Scholastic Book Fairs and has worked as a classroom teacher and school librarian; he advocates for the people and things he cares about most: kids, books, schools, and the libraries—and librarians—that connect them! He is the author of the picture books This Is a School, This Is a Story, and young adult novel, Louder Than Hunger. Katherine Applegate is the Newbery Medal-winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author of numerous books for young readers, including The One and Only Ivan, Wishtree, Crenshaw, the Endling series, the Roscoe Riley Rules chapter book series, and the Animorphs series. Stop in April 28th to meet all three authors and grab signed copies of their books!

Author Event: James and Nichole - 'Twas Night Before Apple Blossom
2026-05-02 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Within ‘Twas the Night Before Apple Blossom, there are illustrations in a series of watercolor style images commissioned to capture the festival experience. As a loose adaptation of “’Twas the Night Before Christmas”, it is written in poetic style with some traditional lines and historical facts interwoven into the personal narrative. The book shares about the significance of the apple orchards throughout the region and describes several key elements of the Festival including the Firefighters’ Parade, the Grand Feature Parade, Fireworks over Handley and the Midway/Carnival.

Author Event: William F. Gray - It Sleeps Below
2026-05-02 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
After thirteen-year-old Samantha Morris almost drowned in her parents’ lake, the nightmares that followed paled in comparison to the real-life horrors of watching her mother descend into madness. By the end of the summer, Kate Morris disappeared without a trace. Now an adult, Samantha is faced with another unexpected loss in her partner Ellie as well as the return of the nightmares.
Only now, they’re bleeding into her waking hours, forcing her to question herown sanity, and they’re only getting worse. As the line between real and imaginary continue to blur, physical manifestations of her dreams beg the question: is she losing her mind like her mother, or is she being targeted by something far more sinister? Love craftian cosmic horror and dark mystery meet to form It Sleeps Below, a horror novel with grief and loss at its black, beating heart.

FREE Midday at The YDC!
2026-05-05 10:00 - 13:00 | Youth Development Center, 302 S Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Midday at The YDC is a relaxed, inclusive daytime program designed to give families a place to connect, learn, and spend meaningful time together. Open to all school-aged children and their caregivers, this drop-in experience invites families to use The YDC as a community space that supports curiosity, creativity, and connection.
During Midday at The YDC, families have access to our reading rooms, art supplies, game room, and esports room, allowing children of mixed ages to explore interests at their own pace. Parents and caregivers are required to remain with their children at all times, making this a shared experience that encourages engagement and community building.
This program takes place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and is open to all families, whether you homeschool, have a day off from school, or are simply looking for a welcoming place to spend part of your day. The cost is $5 per day per family, and the first Tuesday of each month is free. Families are encouraged to bring snacks and drinks and enjoy the space in a way that works best for them.
Midday at The YDC creates room in the day for learning, creativity, and belonging, right in the heart of our community.

First Wednesday Community Information Night
2026-05-06 17:30 - 19:00, 2026-06-03 17:30 - 19:00 | Bridging the Gaps, 31 S. Braddock Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
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This October, attendees will be able to receive Acudetox (ear acupuncture), a technique used in addiction recovery to help reduce cravings, manage stress and anxiety, ease insomnia, and support healing.
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▪️Receive Acudetox treatment from our nurse trained as a NADA Acudetox Specialist
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▪️Practical tools and resources for recovery
▪️Connections to local support and community resources
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? Individuals struggling with addiction
? Family & friends supporting someone in addiction or recovery
? Community members interested in learning more

Winchester Civil War Weekend '26
2026-05-08 15:00 - 2026-05-09 17:00 | shenandoah valley civil war museum
Step back in time during Winchester Civil War Weekend 2026, happening May 8–9 in Winchester.
This two-day weekend brings history to life with expert talks, guided tours, and hands-on experiences across some of Winchester’s most iconic Civil War sites. From kickoff programs and a live podcast on Friday to battlefield tours, artillery demonstrations, and trivia on Saturday, there’s something for both casual history fans and dedicated enthusiasts.
Events take place throughout Old Town and surrounding historic locations, with programming led by historians and local experts. Registration and admission vary by event.

Author Event: Patti Bonesteel - Ramona and Izzy I’ll Be Here for You
2026-05-09 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
We are excited to welcome Patti Bonesteel to the bookstore! Patti lives inBaldwinsville, NY with her husband, Bob, and their four daughters. After 25years teaching elementary school and a lifelong love of nature, she poured herexperiences into titles like “The Flamingo with Two LeftFeet,” “Amari and the Big Surprise… It’s Not Monkey Bread,””Search!: Adventures of Peyote and Violet,” “Barkley and LeaveIt to the Beavers,” “We Can… and We Do,” and her newest, “Ramona and Izzy I’ll Be Here for You.” She will be at the shop to sign copies of all of her books. Come meet Patti and picked up a signed copy or two!

Mother's Day Bloom Bar
2026-05-09 12:00 - 16:00 | Kimberly’s, 135 N Braddock St, Winchester, VA, 22601, United States
Bloom Bar + Brunch = The Perfect Saturday!
Join us the Saturday before Mother’s Day, May 9th from 12-4, for our Bloom Bar with Allison of Dozer Pharms. Stay for bite to eat at The Market At Kimberly’s with a special Mother’s Day menu: cinnamon rolls, avocado toast, and $5.00 mimosas or hot tea + a chocolate truffle.
Bring the kids, do your shopping, and get your Mother’s Day Gift wrapped!

Author Event: C.N. Steinhour - The Lifesaver
2026-05-09 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
When Avery Taylor stumbles across an unconscious classmate in the river, he fears a life is at stake. Although his quick actions are enough to save Tristan, Avery’s left with more questions than answers about that fateful night: What was Tristan doing in the river in the first place? Could all the rumors about him be true? And why should Avery care so much, anyway?Joyful and raw, The Lifesaver is an emotional look at the human connection and how it can change a life in more ways than one.

Author Event: Bryan Lienesch - Safe Harbor
2026-05-16 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Help us welcome back Bryan Lienesch and celebrate his latest book! Jackson Clay returns, and in an attempt to relax in the wilderness, finds himself and his friend embroiled in a seemingly spontaneous murder. Join him as he talks with a host of peculiar characters. Can you solve the mystery?

Author Event: June Smalls - Hear Them Sing
2026-05-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
High in the treetops, way up in the sky, there’s a symphony. The chirring of an American robin, the whistle of a black-capped chickadee—these birdsongs all come together to create the sounds of your backyard. But do you know which sound belongs to which bird?
With this fully illustrated guidebook and soundboard, kids can learn the whistles, chirps, and coos of 14 birds from North America by simply pressing a button. Each page comes with stunning watercolor illustrations from Zev Labinger that capture the birds in their natural habitats, accompanied by fun facts from June Smalls that cover everything from population size to nest structure. And you’ll find true-to-size illustrations of each bird’s egg! Packed with everything a kid needs to stay entertained and engaged, Hear Them Sing is the best first guide for young birders and outdoor adventurers. All you have to do is look up!
Join us in welcoming back author June Smalls for her new release book!

YDC Wildflower Art Night
2026-05-28 18:30 - 20:30 | Youth Development Center, 302 S Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
This spring, The YDC invites community members to gather for Wildflower Art Night, a creative evening centered around abstract painting, reflection, and community connection.
Taking place on Thursday, May 28 from 6:30PM–8:30PM at The YDC, A Center for Youth & Community in Winchester, this special event will be led by local artist Lindsay Browning and inspired by the colors, movement, and natural beauty of wildflowers in the Shenandoah Valley.
Designed for both beginners and experienced artists, the evening will guide participants through an expressive abstract painting practice that encourages playful experimentation with color, texture, and composition. Through gentle creative prompts, participants will explore themes of growth, renewal, and connection to the natural world while creating meaningful artwork in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The evening will include:
? A guided abstract painting session with Lindsay Browning
? All art materials provided, including canvases, paints, brushes, and aprons
? Light refreshments, music, and a relaxed creative setting
? A completed abstract wildflower painting to take home
? A sunflower seedling for each participant to continue nurturing beyond the event
Wildflower Art Night is open to teens and adults ages 12+ and reflects The YDC’s ongoing commitment to fostering creativity, accessibility, and community enrichment through arts-based programming.

Summer Art Class
2026-06-03 10:30 - 11:30, 2026-06-10 10:30 - 11:30 | Youth Development Center, 302 S Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Our Summer Art Series at the YDC is a fun, creative opportunity for kids to explore, learn, and express themselves in a welcoming environment.
Made possible by the generosity of our donors, this program is offered free of charge to families in our community.
Each week features a new project designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and encourage self-expression. Ms. Lindsay will be back leading the series, joined by a few special helpers along the way to bring fresh ideas and energy to each session.
This program is best suited for ages 6–12, however we’re happy to work with families. If you have a child outside of that age range who is interested, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
We look forward to creating with you this summer!
Please contact ad***@***dc.org with any questions!

First Friday
2026-06-05 17:00 - 21:00 | Winchester Downtown Walking Mall, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Friday nights are back in Old Town Winchester.
Join Friends of Old Town for First Fridays, a monthly community celebration bringing live music, local artists, vendors, pop-ups, food, shopping, and extended downtown energy to the Walking Mall throughout the summer and fall.
Each First Friday features:

Live music at Taylor Pavilion
Local artists and makers
Vendors throughout the Walking Mall
Specials and extended hours from downtown businesses
Family-friendly activities
DORA drinks throughout Old Town

Whether you’re grabbing dinner, shopping local, meeting friends for drinks, or just wandering downtown, First Fridays are all about giving people another reason to stay a little longer and experience everything Old Town has to offer.
2026 First Friday Dates:

June 5
July 3
August 7
September 4
October 2

Event runs from 5–10 PM.
Music and programming may vary each month.
Presented by Friends of Old Town and sponsored by First Bank.

Author Event: Sarah Lauck - The Weeping Willow
2026-06-06 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Sixteen-year-old Rene DuPont has endured a lifetime of pain, abuse, and abandonment—until one night of horror and fire leaves him scarred but not broken. From the ashes rises Red, a teen forced into adulthood, survival, and ultimately healing. With the help of a long-lost grandmother, a mysterious estate in Virginia, and secrets hidden in the trees of Mourner’s Crossing, Red must reckon with his past to unlock his future. The Weeping Willow is a gripping coming-of-age mystery rich in emotional depth, resilience, and the unbreakable bond of found family.

Author Event: Haley Hodges - Eros Rex
2026-06-06 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Eros Rex introduces Haley Hodges’ vibrant poetic voice, at once sensual and reverent, restless and devoted. Hodges’ sonically impactful lines are brash and honest in addressing God, and these poems viscerally situate spirituality in the everyday world, whether in Burger King or the back yard. Come meet Haley at the shop and grab a signed copy!

Author Event: Steve Carpenter - The Allure and Peril of the Appalachian Trail
2026-06-07 12:00 - 14:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Contrary to Bill Bryson’s popular book’s title, hiking the Appalachian Trail isn’t just “a walk in the woods.” It is a long and strenuous hike and danger abounds for unwary hikers. For many, the risk of peril adds to the allure of the trail. In this enthralling volume, long-time hiker Steve Carpenter explores the joys of the trail and the misfortunes that have befallen hikers. Including some history of the trail, Carpenter relays encounters with wildlife, accidents on the trail, stories of sex and murder, and meetings with larger-than-life thru hikers. Stop by the bookstore and grab a signed copy from author Steve Carpenter!

Author Event: Stephanie S. Gardner - Mattie’s Story: Adventures in Dayton
2026-06-13 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Stephanie Gardner’snovellas are inspired by real people, places and events from the historicalShenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains. From mountaineer history inpost-Civil War Thornton Gap to Victorian life in the town of Dayton, thesestories are sure to please fans of regional fiction and folklore.
