Business News - April 29

Busy weekend ahead! 🍓 Strawberry Festival returns

Author

Joya Garris
April 29, 2025

Thank you for all of the kindness and generosity during our GIVE Roanoke campaign last week. Your donations are greatly appreciated! đź’™ 

This week is full of exciting events, so don’t forget to review the street closures and park rentals.

Today’s Top Three:

  • The annual Strawberry Festival is this weekend.

  • DRI is looking for concert volunteers.

  • Mayor Cobb recognized the Ambassadors for their hard work!

Keep reading to stay informed!  

- Joya Garris, Director of Marketing & Communications

Get Involved

Seeking Volunteers đź’› 

We’re looking for a few dedicated volunteers to help us at the Jordan Davis concert on May 22nd in Elmwood Park. Available positions include beer servers, admissions assistants, ID checkers, and drink ticket sellers. Individuals should register using the link below. Interested groups should email our Events Manager, Tyler, at [email protected].

Stay Informed

Strawberry Festival Weekend 🍓 

Friday kicks off the 45th Annual Strawberry Festival, a fundraiser for the Community School! More than 2,400 volunteer hours contribute to the various aspects of the event— from baking the shortcakes and slicing fresh strawberries, to serving up delicious desserts and chocolate dipped berries. In addition to delicious treats, the festival will feature artisan vendors. The family friendly event is held in Elmwood Park. Don’t forget to stop by!

Dates & Times:

  • Friday, May 2nd, 11am - 7pm

  • Saturday, May 3, 10am-4pm

Thank You for Your Support ❤️ 

Thank you so much to everyone that donated and shared our Give Roanoke campaign! With your help, we raised $7,650 for our Ambassador and Beautification Programs. We appreciate your kindness and generosity!

We accept donations for these programs year-round. If you’d like to donate again, please use the links below.

Business Feature: Total Action for Progress 🌿 

In honor of TAP’s 60th birthday, we’re featuring them in today’s newsletter! Since April 28, 1965, Total Action for Progress (TAP) has helped hundreds of thousands of individuals and families achieve sustainable, equitable economic and personal independence. Today, TAP offers over 20 programs that create opportunities and change lives through education, employment, affordable housing, and safe and healthy environments.

Did you know TAP’s headquarters is located right here in the heart of downtown at 302 2nd Street, SW?

Help them celebrate by joining the 60 for 60 challenge!

Ambassador Update 🧹

Mayor Joe Cobb stopped by DRI’s office to have breakfast with the Ambassadors and recognize them for their hard work and dedication. On behalf of City council, Mayor Cobb presented each team member with a customized letter. The meeting also served as an opportunity for open dialogue about Roanoke.

Additionally, the team began two special Spring projects: mulching and weeding!

Gain Knowledge & Network

Onboard|ROA đź“ť 

This eight-week summer onboarding program integrates interns, new hires, and remote workers with regional employers and our thriving community, ensuring great talent remains in Roanoke. Employers, register your interns and young professionals today! The program begins June 3.

Hiring? Submit a listing to our Jobs Board! đź’Ľ 

Are you looking for a new cook, administrative professional, or accountant? Our jobs board is the perfect place to list your available position(s). Don’t forget to add the important details (responsibilities, benefits, and how to apply). Let’s attract qualified candidates!

Events, Street Closures, & Parking

Downtown Events and Street Closures 🚧

The following street closures and associated events may affect Downtown traffic and business for the week of April 28-May 4.

Upcoming Events 🌆 

Find Downtown Parking 🅿️

With more than 1,300 on-street spaces and 7,000+ off-street spaces, plenty of free or paid parking options exist.

DRI - Your Downtown Partner

Put DRI to work for you! đź’Ľ

Our mission is to make Downtown Roanoke the preferred place to Work, Live, and Play. As a Downtown business, you have a valuable FREE resource at your fingertips. Let us help share your story!

Website Listings on DowntownRoanoke.org - Our business listings often come up among the first in Google searches. Help us enhance your listing by providing us with vital information including website, phone number, description, hours, menus, and images.

Job Listings on DowntownRoanoke.org - Downtown Roanoke is the most vibrant workplace around and a destination for job seekers. Let us help get the word out when you’re hiring!

Event Listings on DowntownRoanoke.org - Our Event Calendar is THE place people go to find out what’s happening Downtown. Get your event in front of the audience you’re looking for.

Important Contacts 👤

Often businesses need phone numbers for government services, such as solid waste, permitting, etc., and other services, such as private parking and transportation.

Check out our list of frequently requested information!