Friends of Old Town

Independent Bookstore Day 2026
2026-04-25 | VA
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!

Independent Bookstore Day 2026
2026-04-25 | VA
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!

Author Event: Joshua Putnam - A Heavy Metal History Lesson
2026-04-18 14:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | 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!

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.

ReadStart with Rowan
2026-04-13 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-04-09 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-04-07 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: 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.

Author Event: Brian Gilmore - No More Worlds to Conquer
2026-04-11 14:00 - 16:00 | 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: Harmony Joy - Dark Nights of the Soul
2026-04-11 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Centered around four emergency hospitalizations for “behavioral health” over the course of eight years, Dark Nights of The Soul newly honors the turmoil of trying times -while supplementing them with the greater perspective that comes with growth and reflection. Ultimately, it navigates a journey from seemingly impossible pain and fear, doubt and darkness into abundant healing and hope, faith and light.
Join us for Harmony Lee’s event this Saturday!

Shenandoah Valley Indie Bookshop Crawl 2026
2026-04-11 - 2026-04-24 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
This two-week celebration (April 10 – 25, 2026) brings book lovers together across the region, reminding us how much joy there is in gathering around books and in showing up for the independent shops that bring them to us.
Every participant may enter one store-specific drawing for a $50 prize from the participating bookshop of their choice. Simply check the box for your favorite shop on your passport.
Visit 7 or more participating bookshops and collect 7+ stamps or stickers to enter the grand prize drawing for a $25 gift card from each participating store, worth $225 total.
With 7 or more stops, you can enter both a store-specific prize and the grand prize.

FREE Midday at The YDC!
2026-04-07 10:00 - 13:00, 2026-03-03 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.

Author Event: Jason Bucklew - Helixandra
2026-04-04 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
A fast-paced survival thriller about a group stranded on a hidden island filled with prehistoric creatures, dark secrets, and a mastermind pulling the strings. Survival isn’t guaranteed-and escape may come at a deadly cost. Please welcome Jason to the shop and grab a signed copy of his book!

Author Event: Linda Ruth Lee - Way Beyond
2026-04-04 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
With unflinching honesty and emotional depth, Linda Ruth Lee invites readers into her journey through shame, secrecy, and resilience. As a fifteen year old teenager facing an unexpected pregnancy in an unforgiving era, Linda makes a life-altering decision—one that reverberates through her family for years to come. But this is not just a story of loss or regret. It’s a testament to the power of love, forgiveness, and the incredible ways life can be fulfilling.

First Wednesday Community Information Night
2026-04-01 17:30 - 19:00, 2026-03-04 17:30 - 19:00 | Bridging the Gaps, 31 S. Braddock Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Addiction is a struggle — for the person and their loved ones. That’s why at Bridging the Gaps, we’re offering 𝐅𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐖𝐞𝐝𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐀𝐝𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐍𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭, a 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐦𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐡𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐩𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜.
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.
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
▪️Receive Acudetox treatment from our nurse trained as a NADA Acudetox Specialist
▪️Q&A with our clinicians and admissions team
▪️Practical tools and resources for recovery
▪️Connections to local support and community resources
▪️Light refreshments provided
𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐒𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐀𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐝:
💜 Individuals struggling with addiction
💜 Family & friends supporting someone in addiction or recovery
💜 Community members interested in learning more

Spring Sale At Kimberly's, McKee's, and The Market
2026-04-01 - 2026-04-15 | Kimberly’s, 135 N Braddock St, Winchester, VA, 22601, United States
20% off at Kimberly’s, McKees, and The Market
Some exclusions apply.*

Author Event: Mari-Jo Qualey - Soul Evidence
2026-03-28 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
What makes us who we are? When a lethal wave of unexplained comas sweeps across the globe, brain specialist Dr.Isabelle Beckinsale and her team race against time to save humanity—includingher own twin sister. Their discovery that every coma patient’s brain wavesmatch those from a distant star cluster launches them on a mission to thedepths of space, where Isabelle must attempt the unthinkable to prevent humanextinction. Part medical thriller, all sci-fi – grab yours today!

Celtic Fest
2026-03-14 12:00 - 17:00 | Loudoun Street Pedestrian Mall
Hark and gather, ye merry souls!
On Saturday, March 14th, Old Town shall be awash in music, mirth, and Celtic cheer as we proclaim a grand celebration — Celtic Fest!
From the twelfth hour ‘til five of the clock, the Walking Mall shall be transformed into a lively festival village. Those who wander through shall discover:
Lively tunes from pipers and roaming musicians A splendid market of vendors, brought forth in partnership with the fine folk of Ravenwood, offering wares most curious and delightful Hearty food and drink to fortify thy festival spirit Dancing, laughter, and jolly fellowship in the open air
Don thy greenest raiment, gather thy friends and kin, and roam the ancient brick pathways as song fills the breeze and the spirit of the Celts takes hold.
Yet hold fast — for when the sun dips low, the revelry doth not end…
At the seventh hour of the evening, the Celtic Bar Crawl begins! Brave adventurers shall embark upon a noble quest from tavern to tavern, raising glasses, sharing cheers, and keeping the merriment alive well into the night.
So make haste and mark thy calendars — a day of music, magic, and memory awaits in Old Town. Thou art most warmly summoned to the festivities!

Author Event: Anne Marchant - Wild Virginia
2026-03-14 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
A Virginia wildlife conservation officer and a wildlife veterinarian team up to save animals from poachers and traffickers. With the support of colleagues, they rehabilitate sick and injured animals so they can be released. Along the way they engage in several search and rescue operations and solve a case of attempted murder. Dedication to their work leaves no time for romance, or does it? Stop by to grab your signed copy of Marchant’s newest work!

Sip & Start
2026-03-06 18:00 - 20:00 | Winchester Brew Works
Together, we’ll enjoy drinks 🍺 and more from WBW while we start tomato 🍅 plants for your summer garden or container garden with guidance & supplies 🪏 🌱 from Moon Base Farms. Beginners, experts and everybody in the middle are all invited. You don’t need to know ANYTHING about gardening, we’ve got you covered!
Supplies provided in a limited capacity per family/person and there is a suggested $5 donation in cash or card, which we will donate 100% of directly to CCAP (neighbors helping neighbors with food, money and more!).
If you attend and participate, you will leave with:
– A tomato plant or two of your own and instructions for how to not unalive them. We believe in you!
– Delicious refreshments from Brew Works
– A unique discount code for our farms online store to use on produce
– Connections to other gardeners in Winchester & good vibes
– Answers to questions about gardening, farming and related topics.
FAQ:
– Does it cost anything? No, but there is a suggested donation of $5 which 100% will be given to benefit CCAP. The more we raise, the more we help our neighbors in need.
– I have my own seeds and supplies, could I bring them? Yes, you may bring your own supplies (keep it small and consider the venue).
– Will it be family friendly? Adults, and adults with kids are all welcome. If you bring family, please participate with your kids.
– Will I have help if I don’t know what I’m doing? Yes!
– I don’t know where I’ll put the plant. We can chat through and help you choose the best spot!
– What is a Moon Base Farms? We’re a farm in Winchester, nice to meet ya!
See you there and tell your pals!

Finding Your Revolutionary War Hero
2026-03-01 - 2026-03-31 | VA
The Fort Loudoun DAR chapter is sponsoring an event akin to “Where’s Waldo” where participants get a Passport and go to the 38 participating merchants in Old Town to locate each Rev War Hero. Once they get 10 they can go to the Winchester Frederick Co. Visitor Center for a prize.

Celebrating Black History Month: History & Cocktails
2026-02-26 18:00 - 19:30 | Bright Box, 15 N Loudoun Street, Winchester, VA, 22601, United States
Join us for a meaningful and memorable evening as we celebrate Black History Month with History & Cocktails Night at Bright Box Theater.
This relaxed, intimate event will feature short talks and local storytellers sharing stories that highlight Black history in Winchester and the surrounding region. It’s a chance to connect with our community’s past in a welcoming, engaging setting — all while enjoying a night out in Old Town.
Whether you come for the history, the conversation, or the cocktails, this evening is designed to bring people together through storytelling, reflection, and community.
February 26 6:00–7:30 PM Bright Box Theater (Upstairs)
Come early, grab a drink, and settle in for a night that honors the stories that shape our community.
Presented as part of Black History Month in Old Town, with generous support from Valley Health.

Author Event: James Blakey - Shenandoah Fantastic
2026-02-22 12:00 - 14:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Get the latest from local author James Blakey, SHENANDOAH FANTASTIC, and experience the Valley like never before!
Time travelers at the Shakespeare Center…Space aliens at Route 11 Potato Chips…Trolls beneath Luray Caverns…
Twenty-four stories of fantasy, horror, and science fiction in all.

Author Event: Greg Kujala - Working at Love
2026-02-21 14:00 - 16:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Working at Love continues the story of Amanda and David following their graduation from Jefferson Medical College. Amanda chose a residency in pathology at Jefferson, while David opted for psychiatry at the Brigham in Boston. Their long-distance connection over the course of the next five years was difficult to maintain. Both Amanda and David grew in affection and respect for each other despite the time and miles between them. Their story opens after they experience a bump in the road during their relationship.

Spin to Win-chester
2026-02-21 13:00 - 15:00 | Valley Health Fitness Center, 401 Campus Blvd, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Spin to Win-Chester 🚴‍♂️🔥
Think you’ve got what it takes? Spin to Win-Chester is a high-energy spin-a-thon where riders compete, fundraise, and push themselves—all in support of Old Town Winchester. Join us Saturday, February 21 at Valley Health Wellness & Fitness Center for a Winchester-themed ride led by Pam Lambert.
Choose Your Challenge

Beginner Ride: 35 minutes | 1:00–1:35 PM
Perfect for first-time riders ready to jump in and compete
Intermediate Ride: 30 minutes | 2:00–2:30 PM
Faster, tougher, and built for riders looking to level up

The Competition

$250 minimum to ride (fundraise or pay to enter)
Prizes awarded for top fundraisers and standout riders
Rain or shine event
All proceeds benefit Friends of Old Town
Not riding? Donate and back your favorite competiton

Why It Matters
Friends of Old Town is dedicated to fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and economically thriving Old Town Winchester. Through public art, historic preservation, and community-driven initiatives, we celebrate what makes Old Town unique while investing in its future. As stewards of the Virginia Main Street program, we work to create a welcoming place for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Author Event: Rich Follett - The Day it Rained Popcorn
2026-02-21 11:00 - 13:00 | Winchester Book Gallery, 7 North Loudoun Street, Winchester, V, 22601, United States
Welcome to Bliss, a sunny little village where gold is everywhere, but no one really needs it. Life is peaceful until a greedy dragon arrives and starts taking every golden thing in sight.
The villagers are scared, the knights are trying their best, and hope is fading fast. Then two tiny children with a very big idea step forward, and everything begins to change.
Join Johnny and Jane on their brave and clever adventure to save their home, outsmart a dragon, and discover that even the smallest heroes can make the biggest difference.
The Day it Rained Popcorn is a production of the Ravenwood Foundation, a local nonprofit organization for youth based in Winchester, VA.

Celebrating Black History Month: Art & Spoken Word Night
2026-02-19 17:00 - 19:00 | The Typewriter Studio, 127 S. Braddock Street, Winchester, VA, 22601, United States
Join us for an evening of creativity, expression, and community at Art & Spoken Word Night at Typewriter Studio.
As part of Black History Month in Old Town, this event will spotlight local artists, poets, and performers sharing work that reflects culture, history, identity, and lived experience. From powerful spoken word to visual art and creative storytelling, the night is all about honoring voices and perspectives that shape our community.
This is a welcoming, come-as-you-are space to listen, reflect, and celebrate creativity together.
February 19 5:00–7:00 PM Typewriter Studio
Come support local artists, connect with neighbors, and be part of a night that uplifts Black art and expression in the heart of Old Town.
In partnership with Typewriter Studio and Selah Theatre Project, and presented as part of Black History Month in Old Town with generous support from Valley Health.

Galentines Night @ Vibrissa- Winchester
2026-02-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Vibrissa Beer, 10 N. Kent St, WINCHESTER, V, 22601, United States
💘 Calling all besties! You’re officially invited to Galentine’s Night 💘
Grab your girls and join us for a night full of love, laughs, and all the vibes:
-Flower Bar
-Permanent Jewelry
-Custom Hat Bar
-Photo Booth
-DJ
-Drink Specials
Date: Thursday, February 12th, 2026
Time: 6:00–9:00 PM
Location: 10 N Kent Street, Winchester, VA 22601
Whether you’re single, taken, or just here for the dancing — this night is for YOU 💕
