Even though the holidays are a little hectic — family, friends, and so many holiday parties — it can be a great time to reconnect with home.
Take some time out for new adventures in the Roanoke Region this season. Meet new people, see new places, sample new foods (and brews) … and share.
We’ll be sharing some of our favorite holiday experiences on Instagram, and we’d love to see yours as well. Tag #Get2KnowNoke and #RoanokeOutside (for those outdoor adventures).
This is a great time to show off your region to friends from out of town (or who have moved away) and are looking for a mountain-metro lifestyle where there’s more time to play after work. Not only is the Roanoke Region home to a wealth of opportunity, but it’s perfect for anyone who loves an active lifestyle.
We hope you’ll take time to explore the place where you live (or want to live) this holiday season or take a new look at the Roanoke Region. (It might be different from what you remember.)
Here are a few things to do before it gets too hectic (or when you need a little break from everything else):
Go ice skating – indoors or outside 
Did you know there are three locations where you can skate this season? Elmwood on Ice features outdoor skating (and a cool ice slide), the Berglund Center has open skate sessions, and the Lancerlot Sports Complex has public skate and even drop-in hockey all winter.
Try a craft cocktail
Take your spirits game to the next level and try a signature cocktail from one of the region’s speakeasies – Stellina or 202 Social House in Downtown Roanoke or the Red Rooster Bar in Salem. If cocktails aren’t your thing, Ballast Point Brewing in Daleville has dozens of taps with seasonal craft brews to try.
Challenge yourself (and family) to buy gifts locally
Not sure where to start? Roanoke Outside has a gift guide packed with items and experiences you can buy in the region.
Participate in a holiday lights run, ride, or walk
Join a run or bike ride with others or make your own route to view the holiday lights. No car necessary. Prefer to go a little slower? The Roanoke Co+op is hosting a Wine & lights walk on Dec. 18, beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Get in the spirit with a seasonal craft brew
Big Lick Brewing is showing holiday movies every Wednesday through Christmas. See some of your favorites on the big screen with a Christmas porter or stout, of course. Not into movies? Soaring Ridge is hosting a holiday sing-along — with craft brews, of course!
Catch a hockey game
The Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs home season runs through March, and there aren’t any bad seats in the house.
Take a winter hike
Bundle up and get outside. Some of the best hikes in the winter months include this list of hikes to waterfalls. Don’t be afraid of cooler temperatures; seeing a frozen waterfall is pretty unbelievable.
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