Articles Tagged "Harrisonburg"

The dining scene around Rockingham County is known for its international flair, with local restaurants serving up creative cuisine from cultures all around the world. Whether you're in the mood for Korean comfort food, tasty tacos, tempting Thai cuisine, or a classic Italian meal, you won't have to travel far to satisfy your craving. Our real estate agents have the delicious details on 7 of the best restaurants serving international cuisine in Rockingham County.

• Kangnam Style – 1106 Reservoir St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  When you're in the mood for Korean comfort food near Harrisonburg homes for sale, the team at Kangnam Style more than has you covered. Every meal here is created with fresh, local ingredients, using authentic Korean recipes that have been passed down for generations. Their convenient to-go boxes are perfect for lunch during the workday or a quick, flavorful meal while you're exploring the city. The menu here features all of your Korean favorites, with ample options for customization.

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• Magnolia's Tacos & Tequila Bar – 14 E. Water St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  With high-end spins on classic Mexican taco recipes and a selection of tequila that's second-to-none, Magnolia's Tacos & Tequila Bar is a great choice for an evening out with friends in Harrisonburg. The bar serves up every tequila-inspired cocktail that you can imagine, while the dining menu infuses familiar flavors with modern twists. There are also three levels of dining here, including a pet-friendly patio and a rooftop experience that offers panoramic views of the city while you dine.
  
  
• Ciro's Italian Eatery – 101 Downey Knolls Dr., Elkton, VA 22872
  For an affordable, delicious Italian dining experience near Elkton homes for sale, try a visit to Ciro's Italian Eatery. This restaurant brings the flavors of Naples, Italy, to Elkton, with a menu featuring authentic Italian recipes for pasta dishes, pizza, subs, and so much more. Stop by during lunch/dinner on weekdays to enjoy some great daily specials, or visit anytime to enjoy the full menu with dishes inspired by the seasons.
  
  
• El Paso Mexican Grille – 245 S. Stuart Ave., Elkton, VA 22872
  Another local favorite for Mexican cuisine can be found in Elkton at El Paso Mexican Grille, where you can enjoy seasonal menus highlighted by items like chicken tortilla soup. The menu here aims to bring the authentic spices, seasonings, and flavors of Mexico to your dining table and is overseen by expert chef Raul Castillo. There are lunch and drink specials available throughout the week, along with a children's menu that makes this restaurant a popular choice among families.

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• Mashita – 105 N. Liberty St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Once a popular food truck in Harrisonburg, Mashita has grown into a full-service restaurant with a free arcade, in-house bar, and outdoor dining on the patio. Chef Mikey Reisenberg was born in Korea before growing up in the Shenandoah Valley and brings a unique blend of cooking influences to create a menu of Korean cuisine that you won't soon forget. Stop by to enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or keep an eye out for the Mashita food truck, which can still be found in spots around Harrisonburg.
  
  
• Tacos El Primo – 1110 Reservoir St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  One of the most popular food trucks near Rockingham County homes for sale is Tacos El Primo, which can often be found at the corner of Reservoir Street and Dutchmill Court in Harrisonburg. They've been serving up some of the best authentic Mexican cuisine in the area since 2006 and gained a loyal following over that time period. The menu is highlighted by tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas, and tostadas, all of which can be customized to your preferences. They'll also turn anything on the menu into a vegetarian meal, so there's truly something for everyone at this food truck.

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• @Thai Restaurant – 1318 Hillside Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  When you're in the mood for authentic Thai cuisine that fuses the flavors of Thailand with influences from America, you're sure to love a visit to @Thai Restaurant. Everything from the items on the menu to the way that food is presented draws heavily on Thai influences, with many of the dishes served here designed for sharing. In addition to all of the great entrees on the menu, be sure to take a look at the delicious Thai drinks, desserts, and chef's specials available every day.

Ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the amazing restaurants in Rockingham County? Our team is here to help you accomplish your real estate goals. Contact us to buy and sell homes in Rockingham County, VA communities.

If you've been looking at Augusta or Rockingham County homes for sale recently, odds are good you've learned about one of the many things that makes our area special: The flourishing craft brewery scene. Nowhere is that more evident than on the local Beerwerks Trail here in the Shenandoah Valley.

The Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail consists of more than a dozen local breweries and stretches across some of the area's most desirable communities. You are welcome to explore the trail on your own and make your stops wherever you wish. Local tour companies also offer a guided group experience on the trail.

You may already be familiar with the Shenandoah Valley Wine Trail, which offers a similar experience for the vineyards and wineries here in Virginia. Just as the Wine Trail showcases all the outstanding new developments in wine, the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail does the same for the craft brewing scene.

Let's take a closer look at just a few of the many fun and exciting stops along the way:

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• Elkton Brewing Company – 100 North Fifth Street, Elkton, VA 22827
  Elkton Brewing Company is only minutes from some of the best Elkton homes for sale. It brings an age-old family recipe dating from the early 1900s to the Elkton area – a legendary Austrian brew that is now available to the public for the first time. The brewery is located within the spacious yet historic setting of the old Elkton Milling Company building, which was originally founded back in 1890.
  
  
• Brew HaHa Brewing Company – 11704 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, VA 22827
  Brew HaHa Brewing Company stands out as the newest brewery to enter the ranks of the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail. Located near the entry of famous Massanutten Resort, it warmly welcomes beer aficionados as well as those who'd prefer something non-alcoholic. In addition to its "nanobrewery" craft beers, you'll also find small-batch craft sodas with memorable flavors derived from local ingredients.
  

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• Skipping Rock Beer Company – 414 Parkersburg Turnpike, Staunton, VA 24401
  Skipping Rock Beer Company is all about worrying less and living more. Nothing encapsulates that idea better than a high-quality craft beer that's "a reflection of place" from right here in the Shenandoah Valley. Beers that have been lovingly handcrafted down to the smallest detail will greet you along with a relaxed and casual atmosphere full of old friends and new ones who you haven't met yet. As a watering hole near Staunton homes for sale, it simply can't be beaten.
  
  
• The Friendly Fermenter – 20 South Mason Street, Suite B10, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The Friendly Fermenter is here to make the whole experience of craft brewing "friendlier" than ever. Just a short hop from Harrisonburg homes for sale, it approaches this goal with the town's very first DIY "brew on-site" shop. Drop in any time and the helpful staff will be there to show you the ropes. Want to take the hobby home with you? There's also a full assortment of different brewing gear to buy.
  
  
• Brothers Craft Brewing – 800 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Brothers Craft Brewing, originally known as Three Brothers Brewing, offers both large-scale brewing and small, experimental batches you can sample during your own journey down the trail. The brewery is well known in the area for its monthly charity events and its deep involvement in the community. Live music, games, fundraisers, and much more await you, with local food trucks frequently found nearby.
  
  

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• Seven Arrows Brewing – 2508 Jefferson Highway #1, Waynesboro, VA 22980
  Seven Arrows Brewing features a large taproom that gives visitors access to many different offerings of the brand, its lagers foremost among them. Twelve iconic beers are always available, with a rotating cast of characters taking up the rest of the menu. Seven Arrows distinguishes itself with a full kitchen, a lasting collaboration with Nobos Restaurant. It's a terrific pick near Waynesboro homes for sale.
  
  
• Stable Craft Brewing – 375 Madrid Road, Waynesboro, VA 22980
  If you are paying a visit to the horses of the Hermitage Hill Farm and Stables, a working horse farm in Waynesboro, then you'll want to top off your visit by swinging by Stable Craft Brewing. This brewery's barn venue fits right in with the action of the real working farm, and the tours end here so you can get some refreshment. And "fresh" it is: Stable Craft grows its own authentic Cascade and Nugget hops!

Contact us to find out more about the Shenandoah Valley.

Many birds reside in our region during all or part of the year, and local lakes, parks, and trails provide unparalleled opportunities to cross rare and unique birds off your checklist. Our real estate agents are excited to share their favorite birding spots in Rockingham County.

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• Lake Shenandoah - Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  A 36-acre reservoir managed by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Lake Shenandoah is known far and wide for its excellent bird-watching opportunities. It's a major waterfowl stopover in winter, but during the summer visitors will see indigo bunting, gray catbird, song sparrow, and many other species in the bushes and vines around the lake. Meanwhile, green and great blue herons wade in the shallows, and mallards and wood ducks paddle along the shoreline. A footpath encircles Lake Shenandoah, providing access mere minutes from these Harrisonburg homes for sale. 
  
  
• Silver Lake - 2328 Silver Lake Rd, Dayton, VA 22821
  Rockingham County's Silver Lake—not to be confused with the lake of the same name in Haymarket, VA—is a small roadside lake that would be easy to overlook. Located just a few minutes from these Dayton homes for sale, the 10-acre lake could justifiably be called a pond, but because it's surrounded by open farmland, it essentially serves as an oasis for birds. During summer, various swallow species can be seen skimming just above the surface looking for a meal. Barn, tree, bank, and northern Rough-winged swallows are all likely to be in attendance, as well as chimney swifts and belted kingfishers. 
  
  
• Paul State Forest - Ottobine Rd, Dayton, VA 22821
  Spanning 173 acres, Paul State Forest is a picturesque woodland of black birch and American hornbeam, as well as groves of American holly grove and a scattering of bigtooth aspen. Numerous bird species are right at home here, and it's a particularly great place to spot woodpeckers. Red-bellied, downy and hairy woodpeckers are common, while pileated and red-headed woodpeckers are occasionally seen. A variety of thrushes, tanagers, warblers, and vireos also call these woods home, and raptors are also a common sight. Paul State Forest has 2 miles of gated forest roads that are closed to motorized vehicles but open to hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders. 
  
  
• Switzer Lake Area - Switzer Lake Rd, Hinton, VA 22831
  Switzer Lake (also known as Skidmore Lake) is a 112-acre reservoir located not far from these Rockingham County homes for sale. It's an outstanding destination for bird watching near Hinton homes for sale. Osprey and bald eagles may sometimes be seen swooping low above the lake to grab a fish for dinner while herons stalk the shoreline. The surrounding wooded hillsides are home to an array of woodland birds, and you might see wild turkeys and ruffled grouse in grassy areas along the roadsides. Switzer Lake Area provides access, and the lake is also great for kayaking and fishing. 

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• Wildwood Park - 648 W Bank St, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Eastern wood-peewee, mourning dove, blue jay, chimney swift, ruby-throated hummingbird, red-bellied and downy woodpeckers, Carolina chickadee, red-eyed vireo, and American goldfinch are just a few of the birds that you may hear or see at Bridgewater's Wildwood Park. And with its mix of woods and meadows, this 10-acre park is also a haven for over 70 species of butterflies. Wildwood Park is located toward the western edge of town, a stone's throw from numerous Bridgewater homes for sale. The community of Bridgewater also has some additional birding locations, including a bird sanctuary and the Cooks Creek Arboretum. 

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If you're looking for more information on bird watching in Rockingham County, check-in with the Rockingham Bird Club. It's a great local organization that can provide a wealth of insights, along with a chance to connect with your fellow birding enthusiasts in our little corner of Virginia!

Contact us today to learn more about bird watching and other outdoor adventures in Rockingham County. If you're looking for your dream home in Harrisonburg and the surrounding areas, our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way. 

The Rockingham County area features some fantastic golf courses. And when summer returns to the Shenandoah Valley, you can bet that our real estate agents will be out on the links every chance they get. 

With that in mind, we're excited to share some of our favorite golf courses in Harrisonburg, VA, and the surrounding areas. We hope to see you out there this summer!

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• Heritage Oaks Golf Course - 680 Garbers Church Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Voted 'Best in the Valley' many times over, Heritage Oaks Golf Course is a beautiful course designed by William Love. It's owned by the city of Harrisonburg and is located just minutes from many Harrisonburg homes for sale. When you visit Heritage Oaks, you can expect beautiful, well-manicured greens and healthy creeping bentgrass fairways. You can also expect a fair number of challenging shots on this 18-hole, par 40 course. There's also a well-stocked pro shop on-site, and staff pros offer golf lessons and clinics. 
  
  
• Spotswood Country Club - 1980 Country Club Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Opened in 1926, Spotswood Country Club is the only private club within 40 miles of Harrisonburg and offers a splendid 18 holes of golf. Featuring 6,340 yards of golf from the longest tees, the par 71 course at Spotswood is eminently playable and is routinely ranked among the best in the area. The ryegrass surface is welcoming and offers just the right amount of challenges while still being fun for all skill levels. There are also some great amenities on-site, including a swimming pool and clay tennis courts. 
  
  

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• Woodstone Meadows Golf Course - 300 Silverstone Ln, McGaheysville, VA 22840
  One of two gold courses at Massanutten Resort, Woodstone Meadows Golf Course is an 18-hole executive course that offers 5,065 yards of golf for a par of 65. It's arguably the easier and more beginner-friendly of the resort's two golf offerings, though it can still be a lot of fun for more advanced players looking to play a leisurely 18 holes. The fairways are open, and the greens are gently sloping. Woodstone Meadows Golf Course is a short drive from many Mcgaheysville homes for sale and is surrounded by some incredible mountain scenery. 
  
  
• Mountain Greens Golf Course - 1822 Resort Dr, McGaheysville, VA 22840
  The Mountain Greens Golf Course is the more challenging of the two golf courses at Massanutten Resort. This 18-hole beauty offers mountain golf at its finest, with rolling terrain that constantly tests one's abilities. The course is known most for its steeply-terraced tees and fairways, but it's also a truly beautiful course with spectacular views of the densely wooded Shenandoah Mountains. It plays 6,443 yards to a par 72 and was designed by golf legend Arnold Palmer. 
  
  
• Packsaddle Ridge Golf Club - 3067 Pack Saddle Trail, Keezletown, VA 22832
  With a par of 72, the 18-hole course at Packsaddle Ridge Golf Club boasts 7,024 yards of golf from the longest tees. It's a playable yet challenging course for all skill levels, with fairways bordered by trees and some very enjoyable water hazards. There's a driving range on site as well. This golf club is open to members and walk-ins alike, making it one of the great public courses in Rockingham County. Plus, with a convenient location near these Keezletown homes for sale, this is a course you'll want to revisit again and again. 
  
  

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• Lakeview Golf Club - 4101 Shen Lake Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  An outstanding 27-hole facility in Harrisonburg, Lakeview Golf Club offers some of the most exciting golf opportunities in the region. It's made up of three 9-hole courses, and each one (Lake, Peak, and Mountain) offers a unique set of challenges and characteristics. It's a great layout that can be played in multiple configurations, offering plenty of challenges and dynamic play. The 27-hole layout also helps keep the course uncrowded, making it an excellent public course for anyone who wants to have the greens all to themselves. 
  
  
• Sandy Bottom Golf Course - 610 E College St, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Located within Sandy Bottom Park in the Village of Bridgewater, Sandy Bottom Golf Course is a charming, par 3, 9-hole course. It's perfect for practice, for relaxed weekend play, and for getting a quick 9 holes in during your lunch break on a busy workday. There's also a practice green and an 18-hole miniature golf course in the park, along with picnic areas and gazebos, making this a great spot for a family outing not too far from these Rockingham County homes for sale.

Contact us to learn more about life in the Harrisonburg and Rockingham County area. When you're ready to find your dream home in Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley, our real estate agents are here to help every step of the way. 

Our real estate agents know fresh flowers are a "can't miss" Mother's Day tradition!

Mom will be delighted with the thoughtful designs you can get from these hard-working and creative florists, many of whom have been around for decades.

Mother's Day was created in 1908 by Anna Jarvis and became an official U.S. holiday in 1914 under President Woodrow Wilson. Mother's Day is the #2 day of the year to purchase fresh flowers and accounts for about 26% of annual flower purchases.

That's a whole lot of roses!

Let's take a closer look at some of your options for Mother's Day flowers in the Shenandoah Valley:

• Blakemore's Flowers – 4080 Evelyn Byrd Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  If you need fresh flowers near Harrisonburg homes for sale, come on down to Blakemore's Flowers. Known for its collections by lead designer Abby Chick, it offers Mother's Day selections using only the highest quality blooms in palettes and shapes that are sure to start a conversation. You can even get a handcrafted luxury flower subscription that runs in three-month increments up to a full year.
  
  

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• Sparrow's Floral Design – 91 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Sparrow's Floral Design specializes in making your weddings and other special events the best they can be with unique bouquets, arrangements, house plants, and terrariums. Visit in person, and you can also see the delightful shop filled with books, candles, and artworks from local artists. Sparrow's has a strong reputation in the community for its environmental care, offering credit to "recycle" your pots and vases.
  
  
• Staunton Rask Florist – 835 Springhill Road, Staunton, VA 24401
  Staunton homes for sale are just minutes from Staunton Rask Florist, where you can order the Premium Mother Day's "Designer's Choice" bouquet to make this a truly memorable holiday. With all sorts of arrangements running from elaborate to classy, this is one local florist that doesn't disappoint! It's open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the week, so you can see the flowers in person while you buy.
  
  

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• Cristy's Floral Designs – 610-G North Main Street, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Bridgewater homes for sale will benefit from their proximity to Cristy's Floral Designs, which delivers its handcrafted bouquets and other products throughout the local area. From the "Basket Full of Happy" to the "Sweet Hummingbird Bouquet," there's something to suit the taste of every mother. Highly safe "No Contact" delivery is available, and morning orders can be delivered the same day in the local area.
  
  
• Vivian's Flower Shop – 47 West Main Street, Luray, VA 22835
  Want flowers near Luray homes for sale? Just check out Vivian's Flower Shop, a local mainstay that has Mother's Day arrangements with a vibrant spectrum of roses. From the Classic Dozen Red Roses to your own custom rose arrangement using yellow, hot pink, white, or lavender, you can truly express yourself. It's one of the region's oldest flower shops, with a storied history that dates all the way back to 1945.
  
  

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• Wild Buds Boutique – 5968 Main Street, Mount Jackson, VA 22842
  Mount Jackson homes for sale are near Wild Buds Boutique, a haven for the flower lover in your home. There are special flowers for everything you'll find on the calendar, from Mother's Day to Administrative Professionals Day and much more. Don't forget to take a peek at the lovely corsages. For the bestseller, try the "Floral Spectacular Flower Vase," which combines all kinds of lively colors, shapes, and textures.
  
  
• Valley Flower Shop and Greenhouse, Inc. – 127 North Main Street, Woodstock, VA 22664
  From Woodstock homes for sale, you can practically smell the blossoms from Valley Flower Shop and Greenhouse, Inc. – a top Woodstock, VA florist for years. With more than 100 striking Mother's Day arrangements to choose from (including rare orange roses!) Mom is sure to be pleased. The business is family-owned and backs everything it offers with a 100% satisfaction guarantee for your peace of mind.

Contact us to find out more about Shenandoah Valley real estate.

When it's time for vacation, do you head to the great outdoors or immerse yourself in cultural and historical attractions? However you spend your leisure time, you'll find it around Rockingham County. Plan a memorable staycation featuring these great activities and locations recommended by our real estate agents. 

• Rosendale Inn - 17917 Farmhouse Lane, New Market, VA 22844
  Steep yourself in more than two centuries of Shenandoah Valley history at Rosendale Inn. Since its opening in 1790, this charming bed and breakfast has hosted presidents, foreign ministers, and other noted figures. Its convenient location, not far from New Market homes for sale, provides easy access to vineyards and other local attractions. Choose from four presidential-named suites or the Joseph Salyards Cottage, named for a prominent local scholar and educator.
  
  

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• Edith J. Carrier Arboretum - 800 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22807
  Located on the campus of James Madison University, Edith J. Carrier Arboretum is a 125-acre woodland sanctuary and botanical garden. Its namesake, the wife of a former JMU president, was a tireless ambassador for the school. The dog-friendly arboretum includes 3.5 miles of trails where visitors can view wildflowers, trees, birds, and wildlife. Programs and events, such as Nature Study and Wildflower Walks, give people of all ages a chance to learn more about the natural features of these stunning grounds right down the street from Harrisonburg homes for sale. Hours are dawn to dusk daily, and admission is free for all visitors.
  
  
• Grand Caverns - 5 Grand Caverns Dr., Grottoes, VA 24441
  Star in your own science fiction movie when you enter the Grand Caverns. This incredible site is only minutes from Grottoes homes for sale, but it feels like a whole other world. The caverns include more than 200 verified Civil War signatures, providing a fascinating link to a major chapter in Virginia's history. When you're ready to go top-side, enjoy a game of mini-golf or relax by the pool. Don't forget to make a stop in the gift shop for a t-shirt to commemorate your visit. Grand Caverns is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Visit the website for tour information and prices. 

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• Massanutten Water Park - 1200 Adventure Dr., McGaheysville, VA 22840
  The whole family can make a big splash at Massanutten Water Park, within a short distance from McGaheysville homes for sale. With indoor and outdoor facilities, the water's fine any time of year. Indoor features, including the Endless Wave, where kids can hang ten, are heated to a constant 84°F. The outdoor park, which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, includes three new water slides. When the kids are ready for a break, challenge them to games at Diamond Jim's Arcade. Visit the website for the current schedule and prices.
• Swift Run Campground & Pool - 19540 Spotswood Trail, Elkton, VA 22827
  Fall asleep under the stars at Swift Run Campground & Pool, "where the road ends, and nature begins," by Elkton homes for sale. The main campground has a total of 50 sites for tents and RVs up to 44', with space for an additional eight tents on the overflow site. A heated shower house is open year-round, while two swimming pools are available during the summer months. Kids will have fun with catch-and-release fishing in the nearby pond, and the Swift Run Gap entrance to the iconic Appalachian Trail is only 1.5 miles away. Holidays are a special time at the campgrounds, with pig roasts, karaoke, and other delightful activities. Rates are $25 per night for tents and $32 per couple per night for full hook-up.
  
  

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• White Oak Lavender Farm - 2644 Cross Keys Rd., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Once you visit White Oak Lavender Farm, you may never want to leave. Lavender is a versatile flower with soothing properties and applications ranging from cooking to bath and body products. The Haushalter family's farm grows more than 8,00 lavender plants, which are used in products sold on-site. Their Purple WOLF Vineyard, whose name includes an acronym of the farm, produces wines that may be sampled and purchased in the tasting room. Learn more about this fascinating place with a self-guided audio tour of the farm and entrance to the Discovery Area, with interactive gardens, farm animals, a life-size checkerboard, a pond, and picnic tables. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Admission is $3 per person and $12 for families of up to five members. 

Life in Rockingham County is like a never-ending vacation. Learn more about Rockingham homes for sale when you contact us at Old Dominion Realty.

Harrisonburg is known for having some of the best culinary options that Virginia has to offer, with everything from upscale international cuisine to casual family fare. Many of your favorite dining destinations around Harrisonburg County also feature excellent brunch menus, perfect for a family meal, an outing with friends, or a morning date with your special someone. Our real estate agents have all of the delightful details on 8 of the best places to enjoy a morning brunch around Harrisonburg.

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• Magpie Diner – 85 W. Gay St., Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  A local favorite near Harrisonburg homes for sale offering breakfast, lunch, and of course, brunch, the Magpie Diner is a great place for a morning meal. No matter what time you stop in for your meal, you're in for an excellent dining experience and friendly, attentive service.
  
  
• Joshua Wilton House – 412 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Housed in a Victorian-era mansion, the Joshua Wilton House is part inn, part restaurant, and all elegance. You don't have to be a guest to enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, but the unique rooms here make it a perfect place for a staycation close to home. If you do choose to stay at the Inn, you'll be treated to a delicious, complimentary morning meal.
  
  
• Cinnamon Bear Bakery & Deli – 600 University Blvd., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  For a relaxing, casual brunch with tons of healthy food options on the menu, try a trip to Cinnamon Bear Bakery & Deli. With a college atmosphere, a menu focused on fresh, healthy ingredients, and breakfast food offered all day long, this is a place where you can enjoy brunch on any day of the week.
  
  

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• Montpelier Restaurant and Bar – 710 S. Main St., Ste. 149, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Not sure what you'd like to order for brunch? On weekend mornings, the elegant Montpelier Restaurant and Bar has an outstanding breakfast/brunch buffet where you can sample a little bit of everything. The buffet features plenty of brunch favorites, including eggs, bacon, sausage, roasted potatoes, fresh fruit, french toast, an oatmeal bar, and tons of sweet treats to finish off your meal.
  
  
• Little Grill Collective – 612 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  In the mood for brunch with plenty of vegetarian options? The Little Grill Collective is a cafe owned and operated by its workers, with a menu that emphasizes locally sourced, plant-based ingredients. The brunch menu here is mostly filled with vegan and vegetarian options and offers some meat-based meals for the carnivores in your group.
  
  
• Clementine Cafe – 153 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Located in the historic building that was once home to the Strand Theater, Clementine Cafe is an artsy, atmospheric dining spot known for its live entertainment in the evenings and the excellent brunch offered here on weekend mornings. The award-winning outdoor patio is decorated with beautiful plants and local art, providing the ideal atmosphere for an enchanting brunch. Clementine Cafe offers a brunch menu every Saturday and Sunday, from 9:00 AM through 3:00 PM, just in case you're in the mood for a late brunch.

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• Capital Ale House – 41-A Court Sq., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Known for its taproom that features one of the best craft beer selections in all of Virginia, the Capital Ale House is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious brunch after a night on the town. Choose from an eclectic selection of entrees like Welsh Rarebit, Frittata Italiano, or a Bourbon-Caramel Candied Apple Waffle, then pair it with your favorite beverage from the bar. The all-inclusive brunch special includes an entree, sides, dessert, and up to three handcrafted beverages.
  
  
• The Golden Pony – 181 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  For a pub-style brunch in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere, simply pull up a chair at one of the tables on the outdoor patio at The Golden Pony. Brunch is served here on weekend mornings, with classics like biscuits & gravy, shrimp & grits, and Belgian waffles, as well as healthy options like the quinoa cake. Be sure to leave room to sample one of the delicious desserts like carrot cake, bread pudding, or a slice of vegan cheesecake topped with seasonal fruit.

Your next fantastic meal is never far away when you live in Harrisonburg, and our team is here to help you find the perfect home in the city. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Harrisonburg, VA area.

Farmer's markets are much more than places to buy food. Many of these locations serve as community centers, where you can chat with local and regional growers, enjoy live entertainment, and interact with your neighbors. Our real estate agents share their favorite farmer's markets around Shenandoah County homes for sale.

• Adam's Apples and Herbs - 583 Walton Farm Rd., Woodstock, VA 22664
  Don't let the delightful name fool you. Adam's Apples and Herbs offers a wide selection of produce and dairy, including potatoes, eggs, cauliflower, beets, and turnips. In December 2021, the family-owned market near Woodstock homes for sale expanded its scope by purchasing Rinker Cider. Brighten your day with plants from the greenhouse, or take home one of the beautiful arrangements created by Adam's mom. Hours are 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday and Thursday through Saturday.
  
  
• Shenandoah Heritage Market - 121 Carpenter Ln., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Don't go to Shenandoah Heritage Market planning to pick up just a few things. At this amazing market, the largest one around Harrisonburg homes for sale, you'll find all kinds of items you didn't even know you needed. With more than 20 sellers under one roof, you can shop for everything from produce and baked goods to kitchenware and toys to locally handcrafted items, including Amish-made furniture. When you're ready for a break, enjoy a meal at the Hungry Farmer Country Café or just relax on a bench near the peaceful water gardens. Shenandoah Heritage Market is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
  
  

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• Staunton Farmers Market - 101 W. Johnson St., Staunton, VA 24401
  Staunton Farmers Market, located in the historic Wharf district, is truly committed to promoting sustainability and supporting local growers. As a producer-only market, all sellers must be involved in the growing or production of their product. In addition, these activities must take place within a 75-mile radius of Staunton homes for sale. Make your own contribution to sustainability by bringing your food waste to the market's composting station. At least twice a month, live musicians are on hand to provide entertainment. Staunton Farmers' Market is open from April 1 until the weekend before Thanksgiving, with a limited winter market in December. Regular hours are Saturday from 7 a.m. - noon.

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• Swover Creek Farms & Brewery - 4176 Swover Creek Rd., Edinburg, VA 22824
  When you're planning a family outing, "farmer's market" may not be the first choice that comes to mind. But Swover Creek Farms & Brewery is a family-friendly destination, just minutes from Edinburg homes for sale, with something for everyone, including Fido. Pick your own blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, and shop for homemade items in the on-site store. Kids can go back and forth between the indoor play area and outdoor disc golf course, while the pet-friendly facility includes a separate dog park. Afterward, the whole family can share a specialty pizza baked in a wood-fired oven. Hours are 4 p.m. - 8 p.m. Thursday and noon - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
  
  

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• Showalter's Orchard and Greenhouse - 17768 Honeyville Rd., Timberville, VA 22853
  As the saying goes, an apple a day keeps the doctor away. If that's true, you'll always be in good health when you shop at Showalter's Orchard and Greenhouse. Showalter's signature apple cider has become an annual tradition, which prompted the opening of the Old Hill Cidery Tasting Room. More than 30 varieties of apples, as well as two varieties of peaches, are grown in the orchard. Stop off after a day of viewing Timberville homes for sale. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Massanutten Country Corner - 3546 US Hwy. 211 W., Luray, VA 22835
  In the beginning, Massanutten Country Corner was a 1960s-style roadside gift shop, not far from Luray homes for sale. When current owners Jeff and Kristin bought the place, they retained the gift shop flavor while adding a farmer's market and garden store. In addition to seasonal produce and fresh meat, the farmer's market offers dairy products and specialty foods such as jams and jellies, hot sauces, and fudge. Thanks to the gift shop, which features handcrafted items made by local artisans, Massanutten Country Corner is part of the Artisans Trail Network in recognition of the high quality of work. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.

Life in the Shenandoah Valley is full of endless variety. If you're buying or selling a home in the area, contact us at Old Dominion Realty for friendly and experienced help.

Spring naturally brings out the desire to clean, and if you're interested in selling your home, it couldn't come at a better time. Before your home is listed for sale with one of our real estate agents, make sure it will look its best. Spring cleaning can make your home shine and look fresh and clean! This is sure to make it more appealing to prospective buyers and help it stand out from other Rockingham County homes for sale.

The following spring cleaning tasks will help you get your home ready to list:

• Clear the Clutter
  Everyone has possessions that they no longer want or use, and holding onto them makes your home look messier and harder to keep clean. A crowded home also will make prospective buyers wonder if your home has enough storage and makes it harder for them to imagine your home as their own. Before you start spring cleaning, go through your home and remove clothes that are no longer worn, broken, or outgrown toys and household goods that have outlived their usefulness. Items that are still in good shape can be sold or donated.
  
  
• Make a Checklist
  Make a room-by-room checklist of what you need to clean. This helps keep you on track, ensures that areas aren't forgotten, and gives you a sense of accomplishment as you cross items off your list. Break each room down into areas, such as drawers, and then individual tasks such as wiping them down and swapping out any outdated hardware. This checklist can also be used to divide spring cleaning tasks among several family members.

• Shop for Needed Cleaning Supplies
  Make sure you have what you need, including a good all-purpose cleaner and microfiber cloths, before you start cleaning. Supplies that can be used for a myriad of objects and surfaces are ideal to start with, and as you start cleaning, you can always buy a specialty product if there's a need for it. Look for cleansers that have a pleasingly light scent since this can also help your home seem fresh and clean.
  
  
• Don't Forget the Outside
  It's not just your home's interior that needs freshening up in the spring - it's also the outside. The outside of your home will be seen by house hunters even before the inside is. And if it makes a poor impression, they may never make it through your front door. Walk around your home and yard to see what needs cleaning, repairing, and refreshing. You might need to pressure wash the exterior of your home as well as your driveway, patio, deck, and walkways. Paint touch-ups may also be needed. 
  
  
• Wash Everything You Can
  Household items can collect dust that makes them look dirty and dingy, so wash everything you can. This includes curtains, some area rugs, bath mats, and shower curtains. Items that can't be washed should be thoroughly shaken outside and vacuumed using the right attachment. If they've seen better days, you may want to simply replace them, especially if they're relatively inexpensive items.

• Make Your Windows Sparkle
  If you've had your draperies or blinds closed for a good bit of the winter, you may not have noticed how grimy they've gotten. Scrub each pane clean inside and out on a cloudy day so you're not left with streaks. And don't forget to also scrub any sills or trim. Clean windows can make your entire home sparkle and will let sunlight in, giving your home a bright, fresh appearance. Just be aware that sunlight streaming into a home highlights any dust, so make sure to add dusting to your list of spring cleaning to-dos.
  
  
• Clean Easily Overlooked Areas
  Prospective buyers will be looking over your home from top to bottom, so no area is too small to ignore. Clean your light switch plates and outlet covers, and pay attention to the inside of your appliances, drawers, and cabinets because potential buyers will definitely open them.
  
  

• Spend Extra Time on Your Entryway
  Since your entryway will be the first part of your home's interior that prospective buyers will see, take extra time on the area so it makes a good impression. Invest in a new welcome mat, make sure your door is in great shape (including any glass inserts), and clean the floor thoroughly. And if you have any furniture to store shoes, coats, or other items near the door, make sure it's clean and uncluttered. Not only does this make a better impression, but it also gives prospective buyers a place to hang their jackets.

Contact us to see Rockingham homes for sale or Harrisonburg homes for sale. Whether you're looking to buy a home, sell one, or do both, we have the knowledge and experience to make your transaction go smoothly.

Local non-profit organizations work hard to provide needed services and support throughout our area. The holiday season is the perfect time to show those organizations some love by giving back through a donation or volunteering your time to lend a helping hand. This is an especially busy time of year for non-profits, so your support makes a big difference. Our real estate agents have all of the details on 7 local non-profits where you can lend a helping hand this holiday season.

• Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Habitat for Humanity – 800 W. Beverley St., Staunton, VA 24401
  In addition to opening a new ReStore near Staunton homes for sale, the Staunton-Augusta-Waynesboro Habitat for Humanity works all year long to provide safe, affordable housing to community members in need. There are many ways to get involved, whether you make a financial donation or volunteer to be part of one of the organization's many programs. Volunteers are always needed for home builds, home repairs, volunteering in the ReStore, working on community outreach, and partnering with local families to provide valuable support.
  
  
• Ride With Pride – 2435 Shutterlee Mill Rd., Staunton, VA 24401
  The Ride With Pride non-profit is a unique organization that offers therapeutic horsemanship training and services. Therapeutic horsemanship is used as a tool to help people with physical, emotional, or intellectual challenges through the joy and practice of riding horses. Donations are always welcome, and this is also a great place to volunteer your time. Volunteers are needed to tend the stables, care for the horses, teach lessons for clients, provide support during lessons, and help with fundraisers, so there are many roles available even if you're new to riding.
  
  

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• Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition – 85 W. Gay St., Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  While the Shenandoah Valley Bicycle Coalition is located near Harrisonburg homes for sale, the organization has an impact on communities throughout the region. Their mission is to make communities more accessible for bicycle riders by creating trails, developing safe routes for riding to school, creating greenways, encouraging communities to develop safe road riding routes, and empowering new riders. You can contribute by making a donation, volunteering to support events, becoming an advocate, adopting a trail, or even helping create brand new trails in the area.
  
  

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• Augusta County Library – 1759 Jefferson Hwy., Fishersville, VA 22939
  In addition to the main branch in Fishersville, the Augusta County Library operates six smaller branches in communities throughout the region. Charitable gifts are always welcomed by the library, and you can also join the Friends of the Library organization to provide support in a variety of ways. Volunteers are needed at many branches to help with stocking the shelves with books, teaching classes for the community, providing support at charitable events, and many other tasks around the library.
  
  
• The Arc Augusta – 1025 Fairfax Ave., Waynesboro, VA 22980
  Dedicated to offering assistance to people with developmental disabilities (DD) near Waynesboro homes for sale and throughout Augusta County, The Arc of Augusta provides a variety of vital services. Those services include advocating for the rights of people with DD and operating two-day support programs for adults with DD. This is a membership-based non-profit, and by purchasing a membership, you help to sponsor adults with DD who wouldn't otherwise be able to financially manage to attend the day programs. Members also have the opportunity to lend their support by volunteering.
  
  
• Martha's Meals on Wheels of Staunton – PO Box 2354, Staunton, VA 24402
  Established in 1973, Martha's Meals on Wheels of Staunton has been providing fresh, hot, delicious meals to people in need for nearly 50 years. Meals are provided to homebound people and those who cannot prepare their own meals, with no age or income requirement. The organization is supported entirely by donations and relies on volunteers to deliver meals. Volunteers can give their time once per week or once per month to deliver meals in the Staunton area.
  
  

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• Blue Ridge Area Food Bank – PO Box 937, 96 Laurel Hill Rd., Verona, VA 24482
  The Blue Ridge Area Food Bank works to feed the hungry throughout central and western Virginia. Every donation makes a big difference, with each dollar donated providing four meals to people in need. The organization is always in need of volunteers to recover food, work in the warehouse, and work in a variety of support roles at the food bank. You can also host a food drive or a fundraising event for the food bank.

Are you searching for your next home in an amazing Shenandoah Valley community? Our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Staunton, VA area.

The holidays are a wonderful time in Staunton, with local businesses, homeowners, and community organizations going all out to put on some amazing holiday displays. Touring the light displays around Staunton is a great way to enjoy some quality time with your family and get everyone in the holiday spirit. Staunton's Celebration of Holiday Lights is the biggest light display near Staunton, with a variety of ways to get involved yourself or simply drive through and enjoy the show. Our real estate agents have all of the festive details on the best holiday light displays near Staunton this year.

Celebration of Holiday Lights at Gypsy Hill Park – 600 Churchville Ave., Staunton, VA 24401

Held every year at Gypsy Hill Park, Staunton's Celebration of Holiday Lights is always one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season near Staunton homes for sale. Every year, thousands of visitors explore the light displays around the park. This year's Celebration of Holiday Lights takes place every day from 11/22/2021 through 01/01/2022, with the fun starting at 6:00 PM each evening. All of the displays are created by local families, community organizations, businesses, and church groups, so there's plenty of creativity on display each year.

What to Expect at the Celebration of Holiday Lights

Visiting the Celebration of Holiday Lights is like being transported into a holiday wonderland, with dozens of unique, handcrafted holiday scenes lit up throughout the 214 acres of Gypsy Hill Park. In most years, there are more than 80 displays, each created by a local family or community organization. You'll encounter some of your favorite characters from the holiday season, along with dazzling lights, holiday scenes, and a few fun surprises.

The Celebration of Holiday Lights is a drive-through display, so you don't even have to leave your vehicle to see all of the delightful displays. There are also some free attractions that are part of the event, which you can enjoy outdoors. These attractions include free hot chocolate, a live nativity display, caroling from local choir groups, pictures with Santa, and crackling bonfires where you can warm up on a crisp holiday evening.

You will also find some special displays and memorials to honor members of the community. The Field of Deer features a group of deer, each placed to honor a special person and sponsored by a member of the community. This is always one of the most popular, meaningful displays at the Celebration of Holiday Lights. There will also be a Lite a Tree display this year, placed to honor local first responders, firefighters, police, and rescue squad members. These beautifully lit trees are placed by members of the community, and you can even volunteer to place a tree yourself.

Getting Involved in the Celebration of Holiday Lights

The Celebration of Holiday Lights is all about community involvement, and it wouldn't be possible without all of the people who volunteer to create unique displays. Through the Celebration of Lights website, you can fill out an application to create your own display, place a deer in the Field of Deer, or light your own outdoor tree for the Lite a Tree display. Share your holiday spirit with the more than 30,000 people who visit the Celebration of Holiday Lights every year.

Add more fun to the calendar and be sure to check out these other holiday light displays in the area.

Decorations and Lights at Snow & Ice Christmas Shop – 4080 Evelyn Byrd Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22801

Located near Harrisonburg homes for sale, the Snow & Ice Christmas Shop always puts on some great displays for the holiday season. While the store is open year-round, the team at Snow & Ice really goes all out for the holidays. The whole shop is decorated for the season, with light displays, holiday scenes, and so much more. If you're looking for a great place to stock up on decorations and lights to create your own display, this shop also offers everything you need.

Santa on Mountainview – 608 N. Commerce Ave., Waynesboro, VA 22980

Last but certainly not least, we have Santa on Mountainview, a holiday light display put on every year by a local homeowner near Waynesboro homes for sale. This award-winning display has been a local favorite for more than 20 years and only seems to grow every year. The display features more than 50,000 lights and 300 inflatables. The inflatables include popular cartoon and holiday characters, so this is a great display for families with young kids. You can visit every evening after dusk, from Thanksgiving weekend through Christmas.

Are you searching for a home of your own near all of the festivities around Staunton? Let our local real estate team help you find the perfect match. Contact us to buy and sell homes in the Staunton area.

Women have a 1-in-8 chance of getting breast cancer, but early detection can help.

Our real estate agents know that wherever you live, regular screening is essential for overall health. By combining self-exams and regular screening, you are more likely to get the care you need as soon as possible. That leads to a better prognosis and superior health outcomes.

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we want to help make it easier to get this important screening.

No matter if they're looking at Augusta County homes for sale or Shenandoah County homes for sale, our clients often ask us about healthcare resources in our area. Many of our local hospitals feature excellent women's health centers staffed by leaders in the field.

Harrisonburg and Charlottesville both stand out as exceptional places to start or continue a career in medicine. But when you're the one who needs care, you can rest assured that compassionate, quality help is only minutes away. 

You'll find several yearly events dedicated to raising awareness and donations for breast cancer research.

One of the best-known is the Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk/Golf.

The City of Harrisonburg Sponsors the Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer Each Year

Every year, folks from Harrisonburg and all over the area come together in a spirit of solidarity to raise money for breast cancer research through the Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer. This year's event will be special, as it will be returning to an in-person format after the disruption of 2020.

A virtual option will also be available for anyone who wants to participate while avoiding crowds.

In combination with the traditional run/walk, there will also be a golf tournament aimed at raising more funds. Proceeds will benefit Sentara RMH Medical Center, specifically its RMH Foundation for Breast Care and Treatment. Lower registration rates are available for those who act before October 1.

The event will take place on October 16 and be centered on Heritage Oaks Golf Course.

Four Leading Local Facilities to Get a Breast Cancer Screening this October

A breast cancer screening may only take a few minutes, but it can save your life.

Both Augusta and Shenandoah Counties are home to hospitals that stand out within the region for their highly professional staff, easily navigated facilities, and technologies that make patients' lives easier. Here are just a few places where breast cancer screenings are available:

• Sentara RMH Medical Center – 2010 Health Campus Drive, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Sentara RMH Medical Center is a local trailblazer in women's healthcare that was established in 1912 under the name Rockingham Hospital. Today, it serves nearly 218,000 people across seven counties. Harrisonburg homes for sale benefit from its 238-bed capacity, state-of-the-art technology, and experienced physicians, all of which make it a trusted name in health. It is part of the 125-year old nonprofit Sentara system, which operates in Virginia and North Carolina.
  
  
• Augusta Health – 78 Medical Center Drive, Fisherville, VA 22939
  Augusta Health maintains the highest standards of care. Residents of Fisherville and the surrounding area know they're in good hands with the hospital's membership in the prestigious Mayo Clinic Care Network. Representing a commitment to excellence and a patient-centered philosophy, it helps Augusta Health develop plans of care for rare and complex conditions. 

• University of Virginia Health – 1215 Lee Street, Charlottesville, VA 22903
  University of Virginia Health works to put breast cancer screening within reach for all Virginians who need it. Breast MRI, breast ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced mammogram (CEM) are all available, along with diagnostic tests for those showing any current symptoms. The screening used is customized based on the patient's risk factors and medical history. UVA Health also maintains a mobile mammography bus that can visit workplaces and other locations throughout the state. All in all, UVA's health system is one of the most important healthcare resources near Charlottesville homes for sale.
  
  
• Valley Health Page Memorial Hospital – 200 Memorial Drive, Luray, VA 22835
  Valley Health Page Memorial Hospital has been a reliable name in local health for the Luray community for nearly a century now. In 2014, it moved into an all-new, 67,700 square foot replacement facility that includes modern features like private inpatient rooms, an expanded Emergency Department, and more. The old 7,000 square foot site is now an outpatient rehabilitation center. As a Critical Access Hospital, it connects locals with leading specialists and ensures Luray homes for sale are close by truly world-class healthcare.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is in October, so schedule your screening today.

Contact us to learn more about real estate around Harrisonburg.

Fall is in the air, and it's the best time of year to visit your local farms in the Shenandoah Valley! Our real estate agents love this season because of the amazing variety of available crops—apples, grapes, pumpkins—and the fun fall festivals that return year after year. 

If you happen to be in the Charlottesville or Harrisonburg area this fall, be sure to check out some of our favorite local farms, orchards, and markets!

• Back Home on the Farm - 2915 Willow Run Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Offering one of the most fun-packed farm experiences in Virginia, Back Home on the Farm is the sort of place you'll want to visit again in every season. The greenhouse is alive with flowers in spring, and the farm stand is packed with produce in summer. But in fall, the farm is abuzz with activity, including wagon rides, you-pick pumpkins, nightly campfires, and a 7-acre corn maze. The farm is located just outside Harrisonburg, convenient to many Harrisonburg homes for sale.
  
  

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• Showalter's Orchard & Greenhouse - 17768 Honeyville Rd, Timberville, VA 22853
  Showalter's Orchard & Greenhouse is a popular wedding venue in addition to being a working farm, and it's not hard to see why. The place is stunning, with spectacular views across acres of rolling farmland. Autumn is pick-your-own apple season here, and the farm grows more than 30 varieties. Be sure to check out the cider (hard and otherwise) that is made right here on the farm, just minutes from these Timberville homes for sale.
  
  
• Hickory Hill Farm - 3034 Fruit Farm Ln, Keezletown, VA 22832
  Hickory Hill Farm is a picturesque, family-owned farm that has been run by the same family for 30 years. You'll find a different crop ready for harvest in every season: blueberries in June, tomatoes and sweet corn from July through August, and grapes from August into September. The farm is located in Keezletown, not far from these Rockingham County homes for sale. They also sell their produce at the Harrisonburg Farmers Market, which is open Tuesdays and Saturdays from April through Thanksgiving. 

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• Turkey Knob Growers - 17581 Mechanicsville Rd, Timberville, VA 22853
  Peaches in the summertime, apples in the fall—it seems there's always something sweet ready to be picked at Turkey Knob Growers. Nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, the farm grows several varieties of apples, which they package and ship to stores and markets all over the United States. You can also pick up apples in person at their farm stand or order online through their website. Turkey Hill is one of the oldest orchards in the Shenandoah Valley; they've been going strong since 1918. 
  
  
• Overlook Produce and Farm Adventures - 609 Friedens Church Rd, Mt Crawford, VA 22841
  There's a lot to explore in any season at Overlook Produce and Farm Adventures, but fall is definitely our favorite time to visit this Shenandoah Valley farm. They offer a vast pumpkin patch with over 50 varieties of pumpkins and gourds in virtually every size, shape, and color. Fall also brings a sunflower harvest and corn maze, and be sure to check back in next spring for strawberry season! Overlook Produce is just of I-81 and a stone's throw from these Mount Crawford homes for sale.

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• Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store - 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22902
  Offering pick-your-own and pre-picked apples from August through November, Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store is a beautiful place to spend a day in the fall. They also grow peaches that are available well into September and recently launched their own wine label using home-grown grapes. This is a great time of year to enjoy a glass of wine in their beautiful outdoor space. The farm is a short drive from these Charlottesville homes for sale and also has an on-site bakery that's known for making some of the best apple cider donuts around. 
  
  
• Cross Keys Farm - 3022 Cross Keys Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  You'll find just about any fruit or vegetable you can think of at the farm stand at Cross Keys Farm. Each crop is grown right here on the farm and available fresh for as long as it's in season. In fall, apples are the star of the show. Cross Keys Farm includes an orchard that grows modern apple varieties like Ambrosia, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady, as well as unique heirloom apples like Albemarle Pippin, Arkansas Black, and Esopus Spitzenburg.

Fall is a great time to be in Virginia, but we happen to think it's a pretty special place to call home in any season. Contact us today to learn more about life in the Shenandoah Valley area and talk to our real estate agents about finding your Virginia dream home.

September is a month for pumpkins and cooler temperatures, but it is also Better Breakfast Month. There are many ways to celebrate this month centered around the most important meal of the day. You could pledge to eat a healthier breakfast each morning. You could cut out some unhealthy items from your breakfast routine. Or, you could take this opportunity to try one of the awesome breakfast restaurants around Rockingham County. Here are a few that our real estate agents recommend.

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• Magpie: 85 W Gay Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Magpie is a great place to stop for breakfast when looking at Harrisonburg homes for sale. This neighborhood diner serves breakfast all day Tuesday - Friday and a more extensive brunch on the weekends.
  
  One favorite at Magpie is the Peach & Blueberry French Toast. If you'd prefer something savory, try the Turkish Eggs, which are topped with chile butter and served with a cucumber-herb salad.
  
  If you visit for weekend brunch, you're in for even more menu options. The Blackberry Jalapeno Waffle is a unique treat. You could also try the Southern Poutine, which is breakfast potatoes topped with sausage gravy and a fried egg. Wash it all down with a Bloody Mary or White Peach Lemonade. That's a better breakfast!
  
  
• Town and Country Restaurant: 21 West Lee St., Broadway, VA 22815
  Town and Country Restaurant is an American, home-style restaurant a short drive from Broadway homes for sale. They serve classic, comfort food favorites in a laid-back atmosphere.
  
  Some key options to consider here are the omelets and the breakfast sandwiches. The ham and cheese omelet is a delicious choice, as is the egg sandwich. The chip beef gravy, served over biscuits, is another hearty dish.

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• Crossroads Cafe and Catering: 4549 Spotswood Trail #9, Penn Laird, VA 22846
  Crossroads Cafe is a modern cafe worth visiting for a quick breakfast. They have delicious breakfast sandwiches for just $4, and their cheesy golden potatoes are the perfect side dish. Make sure you pair your meal with a caramel macchiato or espresso. They also serve smoothies, and there's a different quiche on the menu each day. 
  
  Crossroads Cafe is within easy reach of many Penn Laird homes for sale. They have large indoor and outdoor seating areas, making this a good spot to visit with your family or a larger group. 
  
  
• Thunderbird Cafe: 42-A Island Ford Road, McGaheysville, VA 22840
  If you're in the area looking at McGaheysville homes for sale, then you should definitely stop by Thunderbird Cafe for a tasty breakfast. They serve it until 3 pm daily, so it's okay if you're a bit late. 
  
  Thunderbird Cafe is housed inside a rustic barn. This is the perfect decor to match their comfort food. Plus, they have an extensive coffee and cocktail menu.
  
  The biscuits and gravy are a tried and true favorite here. The buttermilk biscuits themselves are tender and flaky, and the sausage gravy is packed with flavor. Another great choice is the Wild Wing Waffle, which is a Belgian waffle topped with fried chicken, then drizzled with Buffalo sauce and honey-maple glaze. Then, there's the French Toast. You can order it with cinnamon whipped cream or blueberry cream cheese, and both are excellent.
  
  

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• Merge Coffee Company: 425 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  If you love coffee, then Merge Coffee Company is the perfect place to celebrate Better Breakfast Month. As the name suggests, they have a great selection of hot beverages, including a Coconut Macaroon Latte and cold brew coffee.
  
  The breakfast menu at Merge Coffee offers some sweet and savory dishes, like the Bacon Stuffed Waffles. They're also known for their danishes, which are always tender and fresh.
  
  
• Sunrise Market & Deli: 950 Mason Street, Dayton, VA 22821
  Sunrise Market & Deli is a combination cafe and grocery store. You can enjoy a nice breakfast and then pick up some treats to take home for later. 
  
  One of the favorites here is the Sunrise Daybreaker, a breakfast sandwich built on a cheese biscuit and stuffed with sausage quiche, bacon, and cheese. If you're in the mood for something sweeter, the cinnamon rolls are the perfect treat for your sweet tooth. They even offer a gluten-free version.
  
  Sunrise Market & Deli is conveniently located near Dayton homes for sale, and they're open every day except Sunday.
  
  

Contact us if you're new to the area and looking for a real estate agent. We'd love to help you find the perfect Rockingham County home.

Gardening is a fun pastime that can be done in a large backyard or even in containers on a deck or porch. It adds beauty and value to your home along with color, visual interest, and - depending on what you plant - can produce delicious veggies.
  
Our real estate agents suggest visiting the following Rockingham County greenhouses that our local gardeners love:

• Grass Roots Landscaping - 1084 Virginia Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22802 
  With a visit to Grass Roots Landscaping, located just around the corner from Harrisonburg homes for sale, you're likely to find what you need to start and maintain a beautiful garden. They'll have what you need whether you're just starting your garden or would like to make some additions or improvements to an existing garden. The company sells plants, shrubs, and trees that are well established and, when possible, native to the area. This increases their chances of thriving in local conditions. And if you're looking for tropicals, the greenhouse carries one of the largest selections in the area. You'll also find what you need to spruce up your garden, including mulches, soils, and landscape stones. And if you need help deciding how to design your garden, Grass Roots Landscaping offers these services as well.
  
  

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• Mistimorne Plants - 723 Pike Church Rd., Rockingham, VA 22801  
  Mistimorne Plants, a family-owned plant supplier, grows most of the plants they sell on their own farm using little or no growth regulators, which are chemicals that control the growth of plants. Their selection is very large, with over 60 varieties of tomato plants alone available to help you find just the right type to thrive in your garden. You'll also find plenty of flowering plants and hanging baskets to help beautify your garden and porch. Reviewers have praised the nursery's prices and customer service, so you should expect to get the help you need and pay reasonable prices.
  
  
• Evergrowin' Greenhouses - 6263 Thomas Spring Rd., Bridgewater, VA 22812  
  Family-owned Evergrowin' Greenhouses has been a go-to destination for plants and other gardening needs for decades. It's a local landmark that's even a popular location for school field trips. Situated just around the corner from Bridgewater homes for sale, the nursery has over 150 varieties of perennials you can choose from, as well as plenty of annuals, vegetable plants, and hanging baskets. As your garden grows each season and year, you'll be able to find some wonderful new plants or other improvements to add to it. And when it comes time to give your plants the best environment to thrive in, head to Evergrowin' Greenhouses for dyed or bark mulch as well as mushroom compost, topsoil, and potting soil.
  
  

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• Massanutten Produce - 5375 Spotswood Trail, Penn Laird, VA 22846  
  You can buy hanging baskets and flowers such as mums at Massanutten Produce, located close to Rockingham County homes for sale. And you'll find gardening inspiration in some of the family-owned business' other products for sale, including locally grown fresh fruits and veggies like peaches and beans. Start with the fruit and veggies and complete your shopping with some homemade bread and fresh local milk, cheese, and honey, and you'll have some deliciously healthy additions to your meals.
  
  
• Overlook Produce and Farm Adventures - 609 Friedens Church Rd., Mount Crawford, VA 22841
  Overlook Produce and Farm Adventures has four greenhouses located minutes away from Mount Crawford homes for sale, which allows them to extend their growing season to offer even more plants and produce. You can buy mums and annuals for your garden at their open-air retail market or pick your own strawberries, blackberries, or other fruits when they're in season. If you'd rather not pick your own, you can buy them already picked to save yourself some effort. Many veggies and plants are grown and sold from the farm, where you can also buy meat from animals raised without antibiotics. Overlook is also an entertainment destination since it has a corn maze that you can navigate your way through as you work with your family to find your way out.

Contact us to see Rockingham County homes for sale. Our agents can help you find just the right home, whether you're looking for one with plenty of space for a large, thriving garden or would like a smaller home and yard with a patio for container gardens. 

While it might not qualify as retail therapy, back-to-school shopping is an annual summer ritual. Our real estate agents will be getting their kids ready to hit the books with some strategic shopping at these malls and markets around the Shenandoah Valley.

Valley Mall - 1925 E. Market St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
Looking for top national retailers like H&M, Old Navy, and JC Penney? You'll find them just minutes away from Shenandoah County homes for sale at Valley Mall. Department stores and specialty retailers carrying footwear, cosmetics, accessories, and other school needs are all together in one convenient location. The self-service Visitor Center helps make the most of your shopping expedition. Before your visit, check out the website for information on current sales and promotions. Register for Valley Mall's online Kids Club, a virtual program that uses entertaining activities to promote environmental awareness. Mall hours are 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Sunday.

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Agora Downtown Market - 165 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
In most cities, downtown has traditionally been the primary shopping hub. Agora Downtown Market combines historic Main Street appeal with trendy boutique shops. Everything old is new again at Heartworn Vintage, while Charlee Rose Boutique carries a curated collection of clothing and accessories sourced from women-owned businesses. Handmade bags at Lineage are the brainchild of founder Paul Hansbarger, who was inspired when he couldn't find a diaper bag he was willing to carry. Another modern touch is a focus on fair trade and sustainable items. Tare Apothecary + Refillery, featuring zero-waste goods and supplies for everyday use, is having their grand opening in August. Pick up a latte from Broad Porch Coffee Co., which uses ethically sourced beans from sustainable farms. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

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The Dayton Market - 3105 John Wayland Hwy., Dayton, VA 22821
For more than 30 years, The Dayton Market has been such a popular destination in the Shenandoah Valley that it's become a tourist draw. Nearly 20 independently owned shops are under one roof, providing a casual setting to browse homemade foods along with handcrafted clothing, accessories, gifts, and collectibles. Green Hummingbird Fair Trade Clothing and Tic Tac Toys are two of the top shops for families. You won't be able to resist the tempting aromas coming out of The Pretzel Shop and The Kaffee Klatsch, and no one leaves The Dayton Market without a stop at The Cheese Place. In addition to dozens of savory cheeses and spreads, the shop features an impressive selection of old-fashioned candy such as root beer barrels, gumdrops, and chewy wax bottles. Market hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, while The Cheese Place is also open during the same hours on Tuesday and Wednesday.

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Downtown Staunton
Take your back-to-school shopping to the next level and spend a fun day with the kids exploring Downtown Staunton. Walk around the downtown area and pop in and out of the local shops and with many shops throughout downtown, you are sure to find what you're looking for on your shopping list. Pick up running shoes for your student-athlete at Sole Focus Running. The Book Dragon Shop makes a great stop if you want to add to your child's library. Or buy some vintage apparel for your fashion-forward teen. Regardless of what shops you stop at, you're sure to have a good time browsing!

ShenandoahValleyWeb.com
Do you have a specific shopping list to cover, whether it's for you or the kids? ShenandoahValleyWeb.com has a comprehensive listing of stores, malls, and specialty shops in the area. Entries are sorted into well-defined categories, including bookstores, hobbies and supplies, and sporting goods. One of the entries is University Outpost Bookstore, serving students at James Madison University but open to all. The Outpost is a great source for apparel and accessories for all members of the family, even the four-legged ones. Other helpful features of the website include a map of Shenandoah Valley that indicates significant points of interest, as well as a calendar of events and a listing of attractions and activities in the area.

Grab your back-to-school shopping list and plan your shopping trip! While the kids are hitting the books this year, are you ready to learn more about what makes the Shenandoah Valley such a hot real estate market? Contact us at Old Dominion Realty for friendly and knowledgeable help buying or selling your home.

Our real estate agents know many Shenandoah Valley homebuyers want lots of space for the family dog!

Your canine companion is always a consideration when you look for a new home. But if you're coming from out of town to tour local homes for sale, the odds are good you'll need somewhere special for your pet to stay.

Luckily, the region is dotted with trusted local pet boarding businesses. Many of them have been in operation for decades, and you can count on the staff to care for your beloved pet as if they were their own.

Local pet boarding options range from an afternoon to several weeks. If you're on a longer trip while you compare many different properties for sale, you might find that you save money with boarding compared to hiring an at-home pet sitter at your current place of residence.

Plus, you can rest easy knowing your pet isn't so far away!

No one pet boarding company is perfect for everyone or every pet. So, our team has explored the local area to find plenty of options for you to choose from.

Let's take a closer look at pet boarding, daycare, and grooming brands across Shenandoah Valley:

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• Creature Comfort Inn – 1937 Millner Road, Strasburg, VA 22657
  Creature Comfort Inn has been offering full pet boarding services on eight lush acres of land since 2006. Not far from Strasburg homes for sale, it is situated on picturesque rolling hills. Highly trained pet care specialists curate enrichment activities for each guest, including Dog TV (and Kitty TV). UV air filtration and radiant floor heating provide exquisite comfort along with the mental well-being from specially recorded pet music.
  
  

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• Home Away from Home – 333 Madrid Road, Waynesboro, VA 22980
  Home Away from Home is focused on giving your canine companion a wonderful experience that will keep them happy. Boarding, doggy daycare, and even holiday services are available. You can add on special treats such as pool time at Janet's to further elevate your dog's experience to the height of luxury. It's a great selection for when you're on a journey to visit Waynesboro homes for sale.
  
  
• DogWoods Pet Lodge – 743 Loop Road, Elkton, VA 22827
  Owner Brenda Jolly welcomes you and your pet to DogWoods Pet Lodge, a local fixture since 2008. Brenda brings 35 years of pet care experience to the job and completed a new 8,300-square foot boarding facility more recently. With heated and air-conditioned runs both indoors and out, it is one of the few facilities in the area that caters partly to small animals and birds. Plus, it's just minutes from Elkton homes for sale.
  
  

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• All About Paws – 1685-B Garbers Church Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  A service of Ashby Animal Clinic, All About Paws has the full selection of long-term boarding, doggy daycare, and grooming services to meet any need. Bathing, nail trimming, and clipping can all be taken care of during your pet's relaxing stay. There is a play yard, indoor and outdoor dog kennels, and an exclusive cat room. All staff members are highly trained, and the clinic is just next door. It's ideal when visiting Harrisonburg homes for sale.
  
  
• Mystic Pet Resort and Spa – 1775 Bixlers Ferry Road, Luray, VA 22835
  Mystic Pet Resort and Spa is especially well-loved for its kitty condos. Dedicated to pampering your pets with a full spa experience, every guest gets detailed and personal attention. Facilities are modern, clean, and spacious, with heating and air conditioning. Full grooming is available, and it's very popular for Virginians on vacation in Shenandoah Valley. It's also only a short journey from some excellent Luray homes for sale.
  
  
• Wellspring Farm – 208 Swope Lane, Fairfield, VA 24435
  For a perfect place to keep your pooch happy on your next trip, Wellspring Farm may be the answer. It's an all-inclusive dog resort that integrates plenty of play and social time into the experience. Elderly dogs and those on medication get special attention from highly qualified staff. There's plenty of outdoor space, complimentary food, and comfortable bedding. Fairfield homes for sale are just a quick drive away, too.

Contact us at Old Dominion Realty to learn more about Shenandoah Valley real estate today.

Spring is a beautiful time to be out enjoying the fresh air and sunshine in the Shenandoah Valley. Our real estate agents love springtime in Virginia for a lot of reasons, and one of those reasons is that our favorite disc golf courses are finally open again. 

In fairness, many of these places are open year-round. But if you've ever thrown a disc around during the soggy winter months, you know that it's just not the same. So now that summer is practically at our doorstep, be sure to enjoy some of these awesome disc golf courses in the Shenandoah Valley!

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• Westover Park - 305 S Dogwood Dr, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Arguably the most popular disc golf course in the Harrisonburg area, the course at Westover Park has undergone a series of great renovations and improvements since it opened in 2003. It's a lot of fun to play, with 21 holes that include some tight shots and tricky terrain. It's mostly wooded, with two baskets at each hole for longer or shorter throws. Westover Park is located just minutes from these Harrisonburg homes for sale and is also popular for its swimming pool and skate park. 
  
  
• Hillandale Park - 801 Hillandale Ave, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Spanning 74 acres, Hillandale Park is one of Harrisonburg's most popular parks for outdoor recreation of all kinds. With 18 holes spread across various wooded and open terrain, it's a good option if you want to beat the crowds. 
  
  
• Coyner Springs Park - 2091 Lyndhurst Rd, Waynesboro, VA 22980
  A haven for hikers and bird watchers, 145-acre Coyner Springs Park, offers a beautiful slice of wilderness a stone's throw from these Waynesboro homes for sale. The park is also home to a picturesque 9-hole disc golf course that's great for practicing your skills or having a friendly match. Expect tight fairways through a wooded landscape with some challenging elevation changes. The course and baskets are well-maintained, and the first three holes are located within the park's off-leash dog area. 
  
  
• James Madison University Park - 1090 Devon Ln, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Located on the campus of James Madison University, University Park offers a wide range of recreational facilities, from a disc golf course and running track to tennis courts and fields. The disc golf course starts on a hilltop with great views before entering a more wooded landscape. It's very well-maintained, and while it's technically a 9-hole course, each hole has two baskets, so it can be played as an 18-holer. The course is generally available to university students, faculty and staff on a first-come, first-served basis but may also be reserved in advance. 
  
  

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• Swover Creek Farms - 4176 Swover Creek Rd, Edinburg, VA 22824
  Swover Creek Farms is many things. It really is an operating farm, offering you-pick blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries in season. But it's also a craft brewery and wood-fired pizza restaurant, and part of its rolling farmland has been converted into an 18-hole disc golf course. Course maps are available at the bar, and you'll probably want to stop back in for a pint after the game is over. 
  
  
• Ralph H. Dean Recreation Park- 625 6th St, Luray, VA 22835
  Offering a scenic but challenging 9-hole disc golf course, Ralph H. Dean Recreation Park is a popular park in the community of Luray. The course is mostly flat, open, and spacious, with great views of the Shenandoah Valley. Its challenges come not so much from tricky shots but from sheer distance. A short drive from many Luray homes for sale, the park also has picnic areas, a children's playground—one of those great old wooden ones—and baseball and softball fields. 

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• Montgomery Hall Park - 1000 Montgomery Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
  Encompassing 148 acres of rolling hills, meadows, and woods, Montgomery Hall Park offers up a fun, challenging disc golf course in the city of Staunton. The course has 18 holes, each with a short and a long basket, and spans a wide range of terrain and conditions. Some holes are open and flat, others a little more narrow, hilly and challenging. Improved signage in recent years has added a lot to its playability. This course is convenient to many Staunton homes for sale. 

Contact us today to learn more about disc golf in the Shenandoah Valley and other ways you can enjoy our beautiful parks and green spaces. 

From the charming streets of Harrisonburg to the panoramic vistas of Shenandoah National Park, Virginia's Rockingham County is a place unlike any other. Our real estate agents can go on and on about all reasons why we're glad to call it home, and you can bet that our local cideries will be on that list. 

The rich soil of the Shenandoah Valley makes our region the epicenter of Virginia's apple country, and a scenic drive across Rockingham County reveals a landscape lined with farms and orchards. Pick-your-own apples are a big attraction here in the fall, but local cider is on tap year-round at these amazing Virginia cideries.

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• Sage Bird Ciderworks -325 N Liberty St, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Using locally sourced apples to create their unique, small-batch hard ciders, Sage Bird Ciderworks stands out as one of the best of the best when it comes to Shenandoah Valley cideries. Their craft and attention to detail really shine through in each cider they create, most of which tend to be drier hard ciders with rich, complex flavors. Sage Bird Ciderworks is located in the heart of Downtown Harrisonburg, just minutes from these Harrisonburg homes for sale. Their taproom has a pet-friendly outdoor patio and is known for hosting events ranging from trivia nights to yoga classes. 
  
  
• Old Town Cidery - 326 N Cameron St, Winchester, VA 22601
  Old Town Cidery is an outdoor tasting room located a stone's throw from these Winchester homes for sale. It's always a great spot to sit and sip a local cider or two during the warmer months. They have six rotating taps, and food trucks are often on-site to provide something tasty to go with your cider. Cans are available to take home too, including Old Town's flagship Pippin hard cider. All of the ciders at Old Town Cidery are made using apples grown by Glaize Apples, a family-owned apple grower that's been based in the Shenandoah Valley since 1937.

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• Wild Hare Cider Pub - 17 E Washington St, Middleburg, VA 20117
  The folks at Wild Hare Cider Pub have earned a reputation for creating lively and innovative ciders using local Virginia apples. From their flagship Hatch heritage dry cider to more inventive flavors like their Ophelia cider (fermented with Citra hops and grapefruit peel) there's always something new and interesting to try. Order a flight of ciders at the pub to really experience the different flavor profiles among various ciders. Wild Hare Cider Pub is located in Middleburg, just up the road from some lovely Middleburg homes for sale. They also have two additional locations in Leesburg and Warrenton and will deliver cider right to your door anywhere in Northern Virginia.

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• Potters Craft Cider - 1350 Arrowhead Valley Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903
  Offering expertly crafted cider in a beautiful, rustic space, Potters Craft Cider has quickly made a name for itself among Shenandoah Valley cideries. Founded by two friends with a mutual love for home brewing, Potters emphasizes the "craft" element of craft cider, with tasty creations that blend the crisp taste of local Virginia apples with other flavors like grapefruit, hibiscus, cranberry, and orange blossom. The tasting room is located just outside Charlotte, and convenient to many Charlottesville homes for sale. 
  
  
• Castle Hill Cider - 6065 Turkey Sag Rd, Keswick, VA 22947
  Some of the best hard cider in Virginia can be found at Castle Hill Cider, a historic cidery located on land that has been used to grow apples since 1777. But while they grow a lot of the apples themselves, the cider artisans at Castle Hill also source from other local growers to create their flavorful craft ciders. The taproom and grounds at Castle Hill Cider are also stunning—it's a popular wedding venue—and it's just a short drive from these Keswick homes for sale. 
  
  
• Old Hill Cidery - 17768 Honeyville Rd, Timberville, VA 22853
  Cider making has been an American tradition since Colonial times, long before the idea of craft brewing or even beer itself became popular in the United States. The folks at Old Hill Cidery have made it a point to help revive that tradition. Nestled on a 60-acre farm not far from these Timberville homes for sale, Old Hill Cidery creates ciders that range from bright and effervescent to rich and complex. They're all created in small batches using the more than 30 varieties of apples that are grown on the farm. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in and around Rockingham County, Virginia. From the historic city streets of Harrisonburg to the wide-open countryside of the Shenandoah Valley, it's a beautiful place to live. 

Harrisonburg is known as many things, from the county seat of Rockingham County to the first city in Virginia to be home to its own culinary district. But residents and visitors alike refer to Harrisonburg by a nickname that has stuck with the city for centuries – the Friendly City. Harrisonburg is the 12th largest city in Virginia, known for the warm, welcoming nature of its diverse residents, as well as its mix of urban amenities and small-town feel. Wondering why Harrisonburg is known as the Friendly City? Our real estate agents have the details on the friendly atmosphere you can expect in Harrisonburg and the reasons why you'll love calling the city home.

Why Harrisonburg Is Called the Friendly City

• A City That Began with a Gift
  Harrisonburg is a warm, welcoming city, which was founded when Thomas Harrison, the son of two early immigrants to the area, gifted 2.5 acres of land to the newly formed Rockingham County in 1779. That land would eventually become home to the first courthouse in the county, and the land is still known as Court Square today. One year later, Harrison gifted another 50 acres of land to the county, and the city of Harrisonburg was born. The city was named for Thomas Harrison, and from those humble beginnings, it has grown into the vibrant city that so many residents love today.

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• The Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance
  Anyone shopping for Harrisonburg homes for sale will definitely want to visit the city's downtown area, where you can find many examples of why Harrisonburg is known as the Friendly City. Downtown Harrisonburg is where you'll find many of the historic businesses that make the community such a welcoming place, along with examples of the diversity that has helped shape the city to this day. In 2004, Harrisonburg established the "Downtown Renaissance" program to create a vibrant new downtown area where residents could find food, fun, shopping, and relaxation. The program has been a major success, with many new businesses arriving to make their mark on the Friendly City.
  
  
• A Culinary District Where Food and Friends Mingle
  Downtown is also home to Harrisonburg's Culinary District, the first of its kind in Virginia and an example that many other cities have since followed. The diversity of Harrisonburg's residents is reflected by the wide variety of different types of food that you can find in the Culinary District. Whether you're gathering at a rooftop restaurant at sunset for dinner, a patio on a sunny afternoon for lunch, or grabbing a seat at the taproom of your favorite craft brewery, you're sure to find new friends and fantastic food whenever you visit the Culinary District.
  
  
• Why Students Can Find Fun and a Great Education in Harrisonburg
  The friendliness of Harrisonburg extends to residents of all ages, as college students at local universities can surely attest. Harrisonburg is home to both James Madison University and the Eastern Mennonite University. Both universities add to the culture of life in the city, and many students who come from out of town go on to become lifelong residents of Harrisonburg. Residents of Harrisonburg also enjoy going to sporting events at both universities while celebrating the championships in basketball, lacrosse, field hockey, and football that teams from the universities have won in recent years.

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• Outdoor Fun Is Always on the Menu in Harrisonburg
  City parks are natural places for people to gather for some local fun, and like many cities where you can shop for Virginia homes for sale, Harrisonburg is home to a robust park system that offers a wide variety of outdoor activities. During the summer, you might find an outdoor concert or city festival where you can meet new people in a fun, inviting setting. These parks are also home to sports leagues throughout the year for kids and adults – another way that Harrisonburg brings people together.

• Support Your Friends By Shopping Local
  If you love shopping for art created by local artists and supporting local artisans who create unique items by hand, then you're sure to enjoy spending weekend mornings shopping at the many local businesses that make Harrisonburg such a unique place to call home. From handcrafted clothing, home goods, and fashion accessories to art galleries that showcase the amazing talents of city residents, Harrisonburg has it all. And if you've been searching for a city where you can create your own dream small business, then you'll be sure to love the welcome that you receive from Harrisonburg's residents and the small business community.

Searching for your next home in a city that's as fun as it is friendly? Let our experienced, local real estate team help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Harrisonburg, VA area.

You've heard that everyone's a little bit Irish on St. Patrick's Day. While we don't know if this is really true, we do know that Americans have been celebrating the Irish saint since 1737 in Colonial Boston. The pub crawls of yesterday have given way to smaller gatherings at home. Mix up one of these cocktails to celebrate this year! 

1. Top o'the morning!  

Jessica in the Kitchen offers a non-alcoholic option for the entire family with her Best Green Smoothie. For a fun and healthy beginning of the day, simply toss these ingredients into the blender, give it a whirl, and drink. For each serving, you will need: 

1 cup fresh pineapple chopped or cubed 

2 cups fresh spinach washed and stems removed 

2 small frozen bananas whole 

1/2 cup orange juice 

2. Lovely cuppa tea 

From a simple afternoon gathering to a formal high tea, the Irish seldom let the opportunity pass to enjoy a cup. You can serve traditional teas of all different flavors for a non-alcoholic option, or let the grownups sample a more sophisticated version with the Irish Tea Party from The Spruce Eats.

Whirl the absinthe around the glass to coat it, pouring out the excess. Add the whisky and add tea to taste. The tea should already be chilled and sweetened, so it doesn't immediately melt added ice. Chilling the glass will help the drink stay cold longer. 

1/4 ounce absinthe  

1-ounce Irish whiskey 

4 ounces green tea 

3. Leprechaun's treasure 

If, after your traditional corned beef and cabbage dinner, you're ready for an adult beverage, you have plenty of choices, and with this amazing Irish Gold Whiskey Cocktail, you don't need to dig for gold at the end of a rainbow.

This quick libation doesn't require a shaker or any other bar tools. Just pour ingredients over ice in a Collins glass and garnish with a wheel of lime. You don't have to find the end of a rainbow to enjoy this sparkling treat. This can be made by the pitcher to serve to a group without additional fuss.  

2 ounces Irish whiskey 

1/2-ounce peach schnapps 

Splash orange juice 

4 ounces ginger ale   

4. Delicious old standby 

Would it even be St. Patrick's Day without Irish Coffee? Start with a rich, dark brew and stir in the brown sugar until it dissolves. Add whiskey and top with lightly whipped cream. Cuddle up by the fire and sip through the cream for a cozy night in. For a non-alcoholic version, ditch the whiskey and add ¼ teaspoon of rum extract. Dust the top of the cream with a touch of cocoa for a finished appearance.

1 to 2 teaspoons brown sugar  

4 ounces coffee  

1 1/2 ounces Irish whiskey 

1-ounce heavy cream  

5. Spotlight on the green 

When you want something that screams green, tastes wonderful, and isn't beer, you can't go wrong with this crisp, flavorful drink, the Green Dublin Apple Cocktail. Simply fill a shaker will ice and add the ingredients. Shake for thirty seconds and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a slice of green apple for an attractive presentation. 

2 ounces Irish whiskey  

1-ounce sour apple schnapps 

2 ounces white cranberry juice 

6. Irish elegance

Small, intimate gatherings can be elevated to a memorable level with a few simple touches. For a gorgeous offering, let the cocktail take center stage with Shamrocked from Town and Country Magazine. 

1.5 ounces Midori Liqueur

1-ounce Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey

1/2 ounce Irish Crème

Pour ingredients over ice in a cocktail shaker and shake vigorously. Strain and pour over ice into the glass. The creamy delight looks exquisite in a double old-fashioned glass. Swirl whipped cream on top and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint. 

7. Celebration of Life

When the room is rocking with Irish music, you can't go wrong with a drink that offers tribute both to the James Joyce novel and Irish singers everywhere. What could be more perfect for a party than this iconic cocktail, Finnegan's Wake, also courtesy of Town and Country?

1 oz Jameson 

1 oz Green Chartreuse 

1 oz Luxardo maraschino liqueur 

1 oz lime 

3-5 mint leaves 

Sufficient absinthe to rinse the glass.  

After rinsing a coupe glass with absinthe and pouring off the excess, pour all the ingredients into a shaker of ice. Shake vigorously and pour, topping off with a few fresh mint leaves. 

Looking for a new home with a kitchen perfect for mixing up cocktails? If you'd like to tour any of the gorgeous Virginia homes for sale, Old Dominion Realty would like to help. Our real estate agents will gladly help you find that perfect house among the finest Rockingham County homes for sale. Contact us to make arrangements with one of our real estate professionals.

Among Virginia homes for sale, there are plenty of desirable options. Shenandoah County homes for sale have an extra something more for amateur astronomers of all kinds: Access to unique Shenandoah National Park and its unparalleled night sky.

One of the first things any would-be Copernicus learns is this: If you want a truly phenomenal view of the stars, you need to get away from city lights. Light pollution is the term given to the artificial brightening of night skies because of lights that operate all night long.

Many people don't realize that a sky free of light pollution "looks like the movies" – the whole Milky Way can be visible at night. While it's possible to see it any time of year from anywhere on Earth, it can be virtually invisible unless you find a good vantage point.

Luckily, you can get a great view by visiting Shenandoah National Park. It is recognized as one of the best places for stargazing in the United States.

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Discover the Stars at Shenandoah National Park

A long, narrow park encompassing nearly 200,000 acres, Shenandoah National Park includes part of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River Valley. About 40% of the entire area has been designated a protected wilderness. It is a remarkably serene and quiet place even at the height of the season.

• Exploring the Skies with Frank Perfetti is a weekly event in May through October led by amateur astronomer Perfetti, who has gathered thousands of dazzling night sky photos over more than 50 years as an aviator. No telescope is necessary, but flashlights are required, and a jacket will protect you from the wind.
• Night Skies Events are also held weekly throughout the season. Attendees should bring their own binoculars. A limited number of telescopes are available for use during some meetings. A blanket, chair, and flashlight are the other "must-haves" for making the most of this guided tour of the night sky.
• Twilight Hiking is a journey through the park's "big meadow" at dusk, offering an unparalleled view of the changing mountain sky and emerging stars. Available May through August, it is led by Shenandoah Mountain Guides, who can also tell you about animal signs, seasonal plants, and the local ecosystem.
• The annual Night Sky Festival will return one weekend in August 2021. Kid-friendly learning activities, ranger talks, and stargazing go on throughout the evening on a selected Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. It's a terrific way to introduce young minds to the wonders of the stars!
• Want to meet more night sky enthusiasts? There are several unofficial astronomy groups around the Shenandoah Valley. The most active group is the Shenandoah Valley Stargazers, which you can find on Facebook or on their official website. Visitors to the area are welcome to contact them to learn about night sky excursions.

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• JMU's John C. Welles Planetarium offers free public shows every Saturday from late August through late June. This is an ideal stop for those who start their journey into Shenandoah Valley National Park from Harrisonburg. Other programs include Science Sunday for Girls and periodic "Star Parties," where you can use the telescopes.

Where to Start Your Journey to Shenandoah National Park

Harrisonburg (35 minutes), Waynesboro (46 minutes), and Staunton (54 minutes) are some of the closest towns. Many people choose to start out from one of these communities, using it as a base to enjoy dining, shopping, and local Shenandoah Valley charm between their stargazing trips.

Here's what to know about them:

• Harrisonburg
  The home of both James Madison University (a public research university) and Eastern Mennonite University (a private university), Harrisonburg is an iconic college town. The Rosetta Stone language learning software company has its headquarters here, not far from some of the best Harrisonburg homes for sale.
• Waynesboro
  Waynesboro homes for sale are situated in a community of about 21,000 residents known for a relaxed pace of life. Historic Main Street offers a dazzling assortment of charming locally owned businesses for you to visit. A safe and welcoming town with affordable lodgings for tourists is often the place where local astronomy groups depart on their trips into Shenandoah National Park.
• Staunton
  Staunton is the home of the American Shakespeare Center, a theater company operating out of a replica of William Shakespeare's own Blackfriars Theatre. In 2011, it attracted the Heifetz International Music Institute, a summer music school and festival focused on classical music. Woodrow Wilson's presidential library is located here. Staunton homes for sale feature some true architectural marvels in a historical setting.

Looking for a home near this national park? Contact us at Old Dominion Realty to discover real estate opportunities in Shenandoah Valley.

Spring is just around the corner, and if you're thinking about putting your home on the market, now is the time to start getting ready. The real estate market heats up every spring, and with interest at historic lows, there couldn't be a better time to take advantage of the seller's market. 

Preparing to list your home can be a lengthy process, especially if it's your first time. From cleaning to staging, you may not know where to even start. If you want to make sure your home stands out among these beautiful Virginia homes for sale, be sure to follow these tips below:

1. Find A Good Real Estate Agent
   The first and arguably most important step to listing your home is to find a reputable real estate agent. Referrals from trusted sources are usually the best ways to find a good agent. Working with a trusted real estate agent is the key to a smooth and successful transaction.
   
   
2. Scope Out The Market
   Make sure to do some research about other Augusta County homes for sale, so you can get a sense of what other properties are selling for in your area. Look at homes that are similar in size to your own, as this can help you at least establish a starting point for a sale price.

3. Invest In Lighting
   Lighting is one of the most important aspects of the staging process. If you have rooms in your house that don't receive adequate sunlight, it's time to invest in additional lamps and lighting fixtures. Remember, bright rooms often appear larger and more welcoming. A real estate agent can help you optimize the lighting placements in each room.
   
   
4. Declutter Your Home
   If you're planning to move soon, do yourself a favor and start the decluttering process early. Empty the attic and basement and get rid of any junk you no longer need. Decluttering will not only help streamline the staging process, but it will also make your move a lot easier.
   
   
5. Make Repairs
   If you've been procrastinating on repairing that leaky faucet, running toilet, or squeaky door, now is the time to address it. Go through your home and make sure to repair anything that isn't functioning as it's supposed to. Even if it doesn't seem like a big deal, you can bet that potential buyers will notice.
   
   
6. Depersonalize Your Home
   As much as you may enjoy looking at your family photos and favorite art, any personalized items can certainly be off-putting to prospective buyers. Seeing personalization in a home can make it difficult for buyers to envision themselves living in the home.

7. Paint
   It's always a good idea to add a fresh coat of paint to your home's interior before listing it for sale. This can help give your home a fresh, clean look and also help your rooms appear brighter. Just be sure to stick to neutral colors, as anything bright or creative may turn off potential buyers. 

8. Deep Clean
   Once you're almost ready to list your home, it's time to clean like you've never cleaned before. Every corner, nook, and cranny will need your attention. It's also a good idea to have your carpets professionally cleaned. You don't want potential buyers noticing any dust or odors, so it's best to make sure the home is pristine. 
   
   
9. Create a Relocation Plan For Your Pets
   Your furry friends might be cute, but not every buyer will think so. It's wise to come up with a relocation plan for your pets so they're not in the way when you're showing your home. Also, be sure to hide any bowls, litter boxes, or toys and eliminate any odors caused by your pets.
   
   
10. Consider a Professional Photographer
    High-quality photos are one of the best ways to attract buyers to your listing, so you might want to consider hiring a professional photographer. Good photos are a great way to help your listing stand out from the competition. Check out some of the listing photos for these Staunton homes for sale. If you're having trouble finding a good photographer, ask your real estate agent for recommendations.

Selling your home doesn't have to be an intimidating process. Working with a good real estate agent is the best way to ensure a smooth transaction. If you're planning to list your home this spring, contact us today.

If Harrisonburg is the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, then downtown is its soul. The vibrant 40-block area is packed with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions that embody the city's past and present. Take in the delights of historic downtown Harrisonburg with a visit to these great places recommended by our real estate agents.

• Harrisonburg Farmers Market - 228 S. Liberty St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Did you know that farming is the largest private industry in Virginia? Enjoy the bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables at the Harrisonburg Farmers Market. This local favorite began more than 50 years ago as a modest stand in the parking lot of the Harrisonburg Police Station. Today the pet-friendly market is housed in the beautiful Turner Pavilion. Order online for convenient pickup. 
  
  

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• Ten Thousand Villages - 181 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Harrisonburg tradition meets global flair at Ten Thousand Villages, a delightful fair-trade gift shop in the heart of downtown. You'll find unique artisan-crafted home accessories, gourmet food products, jewelry, and gift items sourced from nearly 40 countries around the world. The non-profit business helps provide vital income for a wide network of artists. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday.
  
  
• Virginia Quilt Museum - 301 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The picturesque Virginia Quilt Museum offers a double-sided look at Harrisonburg history. Exhibits such as "HERstory" and "What's in a Word?" examine the rich tradition of quilting arts in Virginia and how they are intertwined with the overall culture. In addition, the museum is located in the Warren Sipe House, an elegant Greek Revival-style building dating back to 1856. Beginning February 16, the museum will be open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. 
  
  

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• Explore More Discovery Museum - 150 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  At Explore More Discovery Museum, learning is disguised as fun for a day that's both entertaining and educational. Exhibits such as Friendly City Medical Center, TV Studio, and Art Smart help kids develop creative and practical skills while learning more about the world around them. Take the museum experience home with Discovery Kits To Go. Admission is $7.50 per person and free for members. Visits are by reservation only from 9:30 a.m. - noon and 1:30 p.m. 4 p.m. Wednesday and Saturday.
  
  
• Union Station Restaurant & Bar - 128 W. Market St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Union Station Restaurant & Bar, located in the former Wetsel Seed Building, takes its name from the railroad depot that once stood on its south side. Each booth includes photos and literature that serve as a tribute to a specific building that once stood or still stands in downtown Harrisonburg. Immerse yourself in local history while dining on baked crab dip, brisket sandwiches, and other elevated bar fare. Pick up a carryout order after a day viewing Harrisonburg homes for sale. Union Station is open 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
  
  
• Hardesty-Higgins House - 212 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Now serving as downtown's visitor center, Hardesty-Higgins House bears the name of two former residents who had significant roles in Harrisonburg history. Henry Higgins, a physician who was active in local businesses and organizations, originally built the house. It was later occupied by Isaac Hardesty, the first mayor of Harrisonburg. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.

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• Brothers Craft Brewing - 800 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  While Brothers Craft Brewing was founded by three actual siblings, the Shifletts consider the entire community to be their extended family. The brothers renovated a soda bottling plant to realize their dream of bringing top-quality craft beer to the area around Rockingham County homes for sale. Between the year-round flagship offerings, seasonal flavors, and creative one-off styles, there's always something new to try. Orders can be placed for curbside pickup or local delivery. The taproom is open 1 p.m. - 10 p.m. weekdays, noon - 10 p.m. Saturday, and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.

Looking for experienced assistance with Virginia homes for sale? Whether you're buying or selling, we can help you achieve your goal. Contact us at Old Dominion Realty to learn more.

Every once in a while, a holiday comes along that our real estate agents can really get behind. Case in point: National Cheese Lovers Day is coming right up on January 20th!

If you happen to be in Virginia looking for Augusta County homes for sale, then you're in luck. Our neck of the woods happens to be home to some amazing local cheese shops, creameries, and farmers markets, and we're thrilled to give a shout-out to some of our favorites in honor of the upcoming holiday!

• Nu-Beginning Farm Store - 221 N Lewis St, Staunton, VA 24401
  Nestled in the heart of Staunton, the store at Nu-Beginning Farm is your one-stop-shop for all things local, healthy and handmade. Just minutes from these Staunton homes for sale, the store offers everything from homemade grab-and-go meals and handmade crafts to a fine selection of local meats, produce, baked goods, and, of course, cheese. Among their many offerings are a variety of local cheeses from Mountain View Farms and Shenandoah Valley Family Farms. Store hours may vary due to COVID-19, but the Nu-Beginning Farm Store is currently offering online ordering and curbside pickup.
  
  
• The Cheese Shop - 2366 Tinkling Spring Rd, Stuarts Draft, VA 24477
  There's always something new and delicious to discover at the Cheese Shop. Nestled in the cozy community of Stuarts Draft—about 20 minutes from Staunton, VA—this local cheese shop has more than earned its place among the best local purveyors of fine cheeses. They've certainly grown since they started out as a front porch farm stand more than 50 years ago! You'll find an amazing selection, including specialties like bacon cheese, aged six-year cheddar, and horseradish cheese. The Cheese Shop also has goodies of all kinds, from local candies, nuts, and dry goods to soups, spices, and teas.
  
  
• Staunton Farmers Market - Byers St, Staunton, VA 24401
  A staple of the Staunton community since 1993, the Staunton Farmers Market is the perfect place to stock up on local goods. Cheese lovers will usually find several tempting options here, including local products from Ballerino Creamery and a variety of local farms. Hours also vary by season, but the winter market is now open every Saturday from 10 am until 2 pm. For everyone's safety, organizers of the farmers market are asking that all shoppers wear face coverings and maintain at least six feet of social distancing at this time. 
  
  

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• Ballerino Creamery - Staunton, VA
  Focused on making perfectly crafted fresh and aged cheeses using milk from local dairy farms, Ballerino Creamery is, without a doubt, one of Augusta County's finest cheesemakers. This Staunton creamery makes styles ranging from mozzarella and camembert to ricotta and farmers cheese, and every last one is worth tasting. Ballerino Creamery doesn't currently have their own brick-and-mortar store where you can shop for cheeses. But their products are available at numerous shops and stores locally, including Newtown Baking in Staunton and Greenwood Grocery in Crozet. You'll find them set up at several local farmers' markets as well, including the Staunton Farmers Market. 
  
  

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• Harrisonburg Farmers Market - 228 S Liberty St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  There's no end to the unique local products you might find at the Harrisonburg Farmers Market. Local artisan cheeses are always on the menu, along with fresh eggs, honey, jams and jellies, baked goods, arts and crafts, and a wide range of locally grown fruits and vegetables that change with the seasons. The market is open every Saturday from 9 am to 1 pm during the winter season (December through March), and every Tuesday and Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm throughout the rest of the year. Harrisonburg Farmers Market is just footsteps away from many Harrisonburg homes for sale. 
  
  
• The Cheese Place - 3105 John Wayland Hwy, Dayton, VA 22821
  When a store has a name like The Cheese Place, you just know you're going to find something good there. This cozy family-owned shop in Dayton, VA offers dozens of cheeses from some of the best creameries in Virginia and all over the country. You'll never run out of new varieties to try. The Cheese Place is also a great place to shop for spices, dry goods, nuts and baking supplies, local jam and honey, and much more. Plus, they have the best selection of candy around, and they're located just minutes from these Dayton homes for sale. 

Contact us today to learn more about all the great opportunities in Augusta County, and ask our team about finding the perfect Virginia homes for sale. We're here to help you and your family find your dream home in Staunton, VA, and the surrounding areas. 

Have you spent 2020 working from home? If you're like many of us, remote working may be your new nine-to-five. Whether you're browsing our Harrisonburg homes for sale or planning on staying put in your current house, you may be considering ways to turn bedrooms or other areas into a functional working space. Here are a few home office decorating tips from our real estate agents.

Lightening the Workload with Krista Fields

When designing your home office, you'll need to prioritize functionality. Thankfully, that doesn't mean that you need to sacrifice aesthetic. In fact, there are many homes or areas of your home that are ready-made to act as practical offices. Bedrooms with windows are especially easy to convert into offices, as there's already enough space for a desk and the windows provide ample light. Take it from our agent, Krista Fields:

"I do like a lot of light as well as having a space on the top of my desk to put paperwork or files that need my attention. I also like to surround myself with décor that I like; I use "outside the box" accessories such as wooden crates for files and old glass jars or wooden boxes from antique stores to use as pen holders. For an added touch of comfort, I always love having pictures and a cozy blanket."

Along with the natural light, Krista's insistence on creating a comfortable "homey" space within her workspace is a great idea. Her use of antiques and furnishings as nontraditional office equipment bring a fantastic balance to the space. A potted plant would be another excellent addition to a light-filled office.

However, we do recommend that you invest in a few resources to help control the lighting and temperature of your space. Depending on the time of the year, the natural light may provide varying degrees of light and heat. Blinds or curtains are useful, as are anti-glare shields for your computer screen.

Polishing Up Your Workspace with Duane Turner

When you envision your perfect home office, what furnishings do you see? It's natural for many professionals to assume that they need to purchase brand-new office furniture to help them function optimally. Take it from our Duane Turner who had a little help from his wife Catina, you can still accomplish your goals by buying items that are new to you. For example, she's taken an older desk and refurbished it with chalk paint to create a statement piece.

There are dozens of gently used or antique items that you can give a second life to. Thrift stores and antique shops are perfect places to find unique pieces for your home office. Believe it or not, your home is the best place to "shop" first! You'd be surprised how quickly a fresh coat of paint could turn an under-used desk or side table into a useful addition to your office space.

Keep Your Business in the Black (But Your Office in the Red) with Bea Miller

Let's talk about color! Professionals rarely have a say in the décor and design of their company workspaces — but when it comes to a home office aesthetic, all rules are out the window! Just look at what our agent Bea Miller did to her workspace. Her office is cozy and inviting thanks to rich wooden furniture and a warm red wall color. White trim and doors provide contrast while small décor pieces complement the aesthetic.

It's your house which means it's your rules, though we do caution all homeowners to put some consideration into their choice of wall paint. Each color has a psychological impact on us, for example, green sparks creativity, and blue produces calmness. Before you throw your favorite color up on the walls, discover how these hues can potentially influence your productivity. Keep in mind that the amount of natural and artificial light in the space will affect the appearance of the color, too. Remember that you can always choose to make the dominant colors neutral and use your favorite colors to complement the space without having too strong of an influence.

Are you interested in visiting the latest listings of Augusta County homes for sale? Contact us today and let our agents help you find the perfect home office in a new house.

Cold winter weather can be hard on us humans, but it's not easy on our four-legged friends either! Our real estate agents want to make sure your pets stay safe this season, so be sure to take these safety tips into account if you're out there looking at Rockingham County homes for sale!

1. Keep your house humidified.
   You're probably very familiar with the effects of dry winter air on your own skin. Pets suffer in much the same way, so it's best to run a humidifier for both your sakes! Dry, flaky skin can also be exacerbated by coming in and out of the cold, so dry your pets off quickly any time you come inside (especially their feet). 
   
   
   
   
2. Stay inside when it's too cold.
   It's easy to assume that just because pets have fur, they're impervious to the cold. That's actually not the case, and while fur does provide some protection—how much depends on the breed—dogs and cats are susceptible to the cold in the same ways we are. They can get hypothermia and frostbite when it's bitterly cold, so it's best to stay inside as much as possible during cold weather, keeping outdoor potty breaks as brief as possible. Plus, keep a towel near the door to wipe off their paws, legs, and belly after being outside in winter. This isn't just to keep them from bringing snow and ice inside. It's to get rid of any chemicals they might have picked up, like antifreeze and de-icers, which can be toxic.
   
   
3. Dial back the grooming.
   Don't shave your pet down to their shortest hair length in winter. A little extra fluff will help them stay warm. If you have a long-haired breed, you can trim it a little shorter (just enough so that their fur doesn't drag on the snow and pick up ice balls). Also, cut back on your pet's bathing schedule. Frequent bathing removes essential oils from the skin, which leaves cats vulnerable to dry, flaky skin. It's best to bathe your pet less often in winter and ask your vet to recommend a moisturizing shampoo. 
   
   
4. Watch out for spills.
   While antifreeze is toxic to dogs, it has a sweet taste that may tempt them to lick it up off the ground. Do your best to avoid spills in your own yard and driveway, and don't let your pooch lick the ground in areas where there may be chemicals mixed in with the snow. 
   
   
5. Give them a warm bed.
   Your dog or cat bed doesn't have to be fancy, but a warm blanket and/or a bed appropriate to their size will help them stay warm on chilly nights. It's especially important to give your pet a place to sleep if you have wood or tile floors. While you're at the pet supply store. Consider buying a sweater for your dog, especially if they have short fur. Not all pets take kindly to wearing "clothes," so use your best judgment! That being said, most dogs—especially shorter-haired breeds—can benefit from a doggie jacket or sweater when they go outside. And booties can help protect their paws from harsh salt and chemicals. 
   
   
6. Use pet-safe de-icers.
   Contrary to what some product marketing may suggest, no ice melting product is perfect for dogs. Your pet should never be allowed to eat or lick up rock salt or other de-icer products off the ground. But some products are less harmful than others. De-icers made of magnesium chloride are a bit easier on pets' paws than regular rock salt. 
   
   
   
   
7. Feed them a little more.
   Pets may burn more energy in winter than they do in the summer, especially if they're spending time outdoors and their bodies are trying to stay warm. It's okay to give them a little more food than you normally would and the occasional extra (healthy) treat. And as always, make sure they have plenty of water! 

At Old Dominion Realty, we're committed to finding the perfect home for every pet... and their humans too. Contact us today to learn more about how to find pet-friendly Harrisonburg homes for sale!

On a chilly day, our real estate agents love to warm up with a mug of hot chocolate topped with marshmallows and whipped cream. Enjoy this comforting classic with a visit to one of these wonderful coffee shops and restaurants.

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• Merge Coffee Company - 425 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22802
  Local caffeine lovers of all ages find common "grounds" at the appropriately-named Merge Coffee Company in downtown Harrisonburg. The shop was founded by two families of diverse backgrounds as a way of sharing their philosophy of coming together. Stop by downtown or their Mt. Clinton location for a hot or cold drink paired with a delicious pastry. Hours are 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. every day but Sunday.
  
  
• Bridgewater Coffee - 610 N. Main St., Bridgewater, VA 22812
  Between them, the Matthews and Foster couples have four careers and eight kids, yet still found the time and energy to open Bridgewater Coffee. Coincidentally, both families relocated from North Carolina in 2016 and recognized the need for a locally-owned coffee shop near Bridgewater homes for sale. Kids love the hot cocoa made with premium Hollander Chocolate. Bridgewater Coffee is open 7 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  

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• The Kaffee Klatsch - 3105 John Wayland Hwy., Dayton, VA 22821
  While the Kaffee Klatsch began as a dessert shop, espresso and hot chocolate were added to the menu in the 1990s when the coffee trend spread across the country. Today, the family-owned shop's focus is on making the best coffee and hot chocolate around. Want a snack to go with your drink? Try some homemade biscotti, scones, or soft pretzels. Located in the popular Farmers Market, right down the street from Dayton homes for sale, the Kaffee Klatsch is open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Thursday through Sunday.
  
  
• J-Petal - 1645 Reservoir St. #135, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Hot chocolate may be a classic, but you probably won't find it in a more non-traditional spot than J-Petal.  This unique fusion restaurant serves sweet and savory Japanese crêpes, Thai ice cream, and an eclectic assortment of beverages, ranging from hot chocolate and bubble tea to non-alcoholic mojitos and coladas served in light-bulb glasses. Try one of their signature seafood, veggie, and teriyaki bowls, or build your own. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. seven days a week. 
  
  

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• Black Sheep Coffee - 217 S. Liberty St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  After 20 years of experience in the coffee industry, Chance Ebersold knew exactly what he wanted when it came time to open his own shop. Black Sheep Coffee is such a personal vision that Chance used reclaimed wood from tables he built for his own wedding reception in creating the space. The extensive beverage menu is accompanied by a breakfast and lunch selection, including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. Black Sheep is open daily from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  
  
• The Galley - 2430 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Get some comfort food to go with your comfort hot chocolate at The Galley. Traditional favorites such as pizza, pasta, and burgers are made in-house with locally-sourced ingredients wherever possible. For those lazy days, The Galley offers delivery within a five-mile radius for just a $15 minimum order. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Heritage Bakery & Café - 212 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  You won't be able to resist picking up one of the French-inspired pastries at Heritage Bakery & Café to go with your hot chocolate. But you might find that these delicacies, such as cardamom cream cheese macarons or chocolate princess cakes, are almost too pretty to eat. If you're looking for something more substantial, Heritage also serves breakfast all day as well as sandwiches, salads, and a quiche of the day. Hours are 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
  
  
• Grace+Main Coffee Shop - 710 S. Main St., Suite 149-A, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Nestled in the Hotel Madison on the campus of James Madison University, Grace+Main Coffee Shop is a great place to start off a weekend tour of Harrisonburg homes for sale. Check out their grab-and-go case of yogurt parfaits, breakfast sandwiches, pastries, and other tasty treats. Grace+Main is open Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. - 11 a.m. 

What's more comforting than a home of your own in Harrisonburg? Contact us at Old Dominion Realty and let our friendly real estate agents provide expert guidance in buying or selling your home.

The holiday season is a time of celebration and also a time of reflection. There are people in the Shenandoah Valley who could use some help for the holidays this year, and there are many nonprofit organizations in the area working to provide that vital assistance. Whether you donate your time, money, or both, helping local nonprofits is a great way to make a positive difference in your community and bring a little bit of holiday cheer where it's needed most. Our real estate agents have the details on 7 Shenandoah Valley nonprofits where your donation can make a difference this year.

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• Virginia Quilt Museum – 301 S Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The Virginia Quilt Museum is a lovely attraction to visit near Harrisonburg homes for sale, and it depends on donations to keep the doors open for visitors throughout the year. Housed in a beautiful, restored historic home, the museum offers three floors of unique, artistic quilts to explore and is the official quilt museum of Virginia. Financial donations are always welcome at the Virginia Quilt Museum, and you can also volunteer your time to help visitors make the most of their trips to the museum.

• Shenandoah County Animal Shelter – 268 Landfill Rd., Edinburg, VA 22824
  The Shenandoah County Animal Shelter serves a large number of communities near Shenandoah County homes for sale by sheltering pets and helping them find new, loving homes. Interested in offering your support? There are many ways to help, from adopting a pet yourself to sponsoring a pet by making a one-time donation to cover medical procedures that will help the pet find a home. The shelter is always looking for volunteers to help as well, and you can contact them directly to find out which opportunities are available.

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• Shenandoah National Park Association – 3655 US Hwy 211 East, Luray, VA 22835
  Serving many of the parks near Bridgewater homes for sale, the Shenandoah National Park Association offers a wide variety of educational services to help park visitors make the most of their time enjoying the great outdoors. You can support the cause by shopping at the SNPA Bookstore, which is one of the main sources of fundraising for the organization. Pick up a fun, educational gift for the nature lovers on your shopping list, and support a good cause in the process.

• Shenandoah Alliance for Shelter – 135 S Main St., Woodstock, VA 22664
  The Shenandoah Alliance for Shelter is located near Woodstock homes for sale, focusing on charitable activities that help prevent homelessness. By providing financial, utility, and housing assistance for families going through difficult financial times, SAS makes it possible for them to enjoy the holidays in a warm, comfortable home. You can offer your support by making a financial donation online.

• Martha's Meals on Wheels – PO Box 2345, Staunton, VA 24402
  Martha's Meals on Wheels has been a fixture among Shenandoah Valley nonprofits for more than 45 years, and the organization's good work is still going strong today. Primarily serving the community around Staunton homes for sale, Martha's Meals on Wheels provides meal support for seniors living at home. The team here is always looking for volunteers to deliver meals to seniors and brighten their day in the process. Unable to volunteer, but still want to contribute? Martha's Meals on Wheels relies on donations to keep providing healthy meals for seniors, and every donation makes a real difference.

• Page One Food Pantry – 35 N Bank St., Luray, VA 22835
  Page One Food Pantry is located near Luray homes for sale and provides meal support for people in need. It's part of the larger Page One organization, including thrift stores and other charitable endeavors. The food bank is supplied by generous donations from local businesses, clubs, and individuals. There are many ways to help, whether you donate food, make a financial donation, volunteer at the food bank, or volunteer to unload large food deliveries.

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• Staunton Creative Community Fund – 32 N Augusta St., Suite D, Staunton, VA 24401
  Small businesses – and entrepreneurs who would like to launch businesses of their own – have faced many unique challenges this year. The Staunton Creative Community Fund is devoted to helping new small business owners achieve their dreams, and your donation can help make those dreams a reality. Small businesses are an integral part of a healthy community, so your donation has many benefits.

Still searching for a home in your favorite Shenandoah Valley community? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Shenandoah Valley area.

The holidays are upon us, and there's a good chance you have at least one hard-to-shop-for individual left on your list. As always, our real estate agents are all about lending a helping hand. And if we get to give a shout-out to some great local businesses in the Shenandoah Valley region, so much the better! 

These locally-owned Shenandoah wineries are great places to find a gift for someone special. You may even be tempted to pick up an extra one for yourself!

• Bluestone Vineyard - 4828 Spring Creek Rd, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  A beautiful family-run vineyard in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Bluestone Vineyard produces wines that have been nationally recognized for their quality, including their award-winning Chardonnay. Founded in 2008, they credit their success, at least in part, to the unique bluestone (a type of limestone) soil beneath their feet. Indoor and outdoor seating areas are currently open at the vineyard, and masks are required when not seated. Online ordering and curbside pickup are also available for bottles. Bluestone Vineyard is a short drive from Harrisonburg and a stone's throw from these Bridgewater homes for sale. 
  
  

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• The Winery at Kindred Pointe - 3575 Conicville Rd, Mt Jackson, VA 22842
  You'll find an incredible variety of excellent wines at The Winery at Kindred Pointe, a picturesque winery nestled among 58 rolling acres of vineyard and farmland. The winery was founded in 2005 and offers a varied and ever-changing selection. Favorites include their 2013 Chardonnay, which is crisp and unusually complex for a Chardonnay, and their light red, fruit-forward 2015 Malbec. The Winery at Kindred Pointe is just minutes from these Mount Jackson homes for sale and is currently open with limited seating for small groups. You can also call ahead to order wine for pick up or order online and have your wine shipped almost anywhere in the U.S. 
  
  

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• Ox-Eye Vineyards - 44 Middlebrook Ave, Staunton, VA 24401
  Ox-Eye Vineyards spans 100 acres in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and takes its name from the ox-eye daisies that abound on the surrounding hilly meadows. Everything about the vineyard, from its 1,830-foot elevation and southeast-facing slopes to its deep limestone soils, is perfect for growing wine grapes. Their wines are 100% estate-grown, including white wines like their dry, citrusy Traminette, and reds like their peppery, full-bodied Lemberger. You'll find the Ox-Eye Vineyards tasting room in the Downtown Staunton Historic Wharf District, convenient to many beautiful Staunton homes for sale. 
  
  
• Little Washington Winery - 65 Clark Ln, Washington, VA 22747
  Little Washington Winery has earned a reputation as one of the very best wineries in the Shenandoah region. Ranked among the 40 Hidden Gems of American Wineries in 2020, this winery focuses on handcrafted Old World wines of the highest quality. Little Washington's award-winning Meritage—similar to a Bordeaux—has specially been singled out as one of Virginia's finest red wines. Their vineyard and tasting rooms are located in Washington, VA, near Shenandoah National Park and minutes from these Washington homes for sale. 
  
  

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• The Purple WOLF Vineyard - 2644 Cross Keys Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The Purple WOLF Vineyard at White Oak Lavender Farm is a cozy, welcoming winery that sits at the heart of a beautiful family-owned farm. Starting as a modest lavender farm, the farm and vineyard has been open to the public since 2008 and now grow more than 8,000 lavender plants and produce 10 distinct vine varieties. You'll find many unique offerings hare, including red and white wines as well as a Royale Velvet port-style wine, and even wines infused with lavender. The Purple WOLF Vineyard is a short drive from these Harrisonburg homes for sale. 
  
  
• Castle Vineyards - 2150 Mims Rd, Luray, VA 22835
  With a warm, welcoming tasting room that sits amid many acres of splendid farmland, Castle Vineyards exudes hospitality and Southern Charm. It's a working cattle farm and a vineyard, with deep roots in the local community. It's a great spot to spend an afternoon sampling some amazing wines, and you're sure to find a bottle or two worth talking home. Located just minutes from these Luray homes for sale, Castle Vineyards operates in partnership with Barren Ridge Vineyards in the nearby community of Fishersville, VA. At present, the wines served at Castle Vineyards are exclusively from Barren Ridge.

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Shenandoah Valley. It's a special place to call home in any season, but it really comes to life during the holidays, which makes this the perfect time of year to find your dream home. 

The holidays are right around the corner, and our real estate agents are excited about all the possibilities the new season brings. As always, we're also excited to highlight some of our favorite local businesses in the Shenandoah Valley. 

Of course, the holidays are poinsettia season, and if you're looking for a place to pick up a perfect holiday bouquet, you have a wealth of options to choose from in the Shenandoah Valley. These are our favorite local florists for holiday bouquets!

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• Blakemore's Flowers - 4080 Evelyn Byrd Ave, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Nestled in the heart of beautiful Harrisonburg, VA, Blakemore's Flowers is a go-to destination when you need a flower arrangement for any season or occasion. They create some truly beautiful fall and Thanksgiving-themed table arrangements that are perfect for your holiday feast. They also specialize in Christmas bouquets, arrangements, wreaths, and table centerpieces and are always one of the first places to start offering poinsettias when they come into season. Blakemore's Flowers is currently open for both delivery and curbside pickup and is located just minutes from these Harrisonburg homes for sale. 
  
  
• Vivian's Flower Shop - 47 W Main St, Luray, VA 22835
  A family-owned florist with more than 45 years of experience serving the Shenandoah Valley, Vivian's Flower Shop is a perfect place to get your holiday bouquet this year. They offer traditional holiday plants like classic vibrant red poinsettias and unique and spectacular arrangements that utilize all the colors of the season. These holiday arrangements are all but guaranteed to spread holiday cheer. They also have a kind and courteous staff of flower specialists who are always more than happy to help you pick out the perfect bouquet for any occasion. Vivian's Flower Shop is a short drive from these Luray homes for sale. Delivery and curbside pickup are available. 
  
  
• Evergreen & Victoria Floral - 134 E Lee St, Broadway, VA 22815
  From the vibrant fall hues of their Thanksgiving table arrangements to their tasteful Christmas bouquets, Evergreen & Victoria Floral has all your seasonal flower needs covered. They always have vibrant and healthy red poinsettias for the holidays, as well as beautiful arrangements with roses, carnations, and other varieties that bring on the holiday cheer. Evergreen & Victoria Floral is a family-owned full-service florist that's been serving the Broadway, VA area for more than 50 years. They're located a stone's throw from these Broadway homes for sale. Call ahead for curbside pickup!
  
  
• Milmont Greenhouses - 48 Milmont Dr, Waynesboro, VA 22980
  At Milmont Greenhouses, you'll find an incredible variety of holiday poinsettias in a spectrum of colors. More than 30 varieties are available. Choose from classic bright red, pink, white, exotic marbled patterns, and many more. Poinsettias are available from Thanksgiving through Christmas. Located near these Waynesboro homes for sale, Milmont Greenhouses also offers a wide variety of indoor and outdoor plants that change with the seasons. Curbside pickup is available, and you'll definitely want to give them a call when spring planting time rolls around!

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• Cristy's Floral Designs - 610 N Main St Ste G, Bridgewater, VA 22812
  A beloved local flower shop in Bridgewater, VA, Cristy's Floral Designs makes splendid arrangements for Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas, and all other major holidays. They also create unique and beautiful any-time bouquets, and their winter floral arrangements are truly stunning. Using elements like white roses, evergreen boughs, delphiniums, and hydrangeas, the artists at Cristy's craft winter bouquets that truly capture the essence of the season. Call Cristy's Flowers for curbside pickup, or have your bouquet delivered to these nearby Bridgewater homes for sale. 

• Stanley Flower Shop & More - 186 E Main St, Stanley, VA 22851
  The folks at Stanley Flower Shop & More create some truly spectacular floral arrangements, including holiday baskets and bouquets. We're sad to see their last of their fall arrangements go for the season but always look forward to their Christmas creations. You can also browse a wide variety of gifts for any season or occasion, from candles and wreaths to quilts and Amish-made furniture. Stanley Flower Shop & More is known throughout the Shenandoah Valley for their great selection and friendly service, and they now offer curbside pickup and delivery to these Stanley homes for sale. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Shenandoah Valley. From vital local businesses to a specular landscape, we think it's a truly special place to call home, especially during the holidays. 

Fall and winter are seasons filled with lovely scents, from the sweet smell of cookies baking to the warm, familiar comfort of a crackling flame in the fireplace. Local candle makers around Staunton do an amazing job of capturing your favorite scents and creating candles that look just as great as they smell. This is the perfect time to shop for candles to give as holiday gifts and to add a little something extra to your own home while you enjoy the season. Our real estate agents have delightful details on where to pick up locally made candles near Staunton this year.

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1. Redwood & Co. – 1219 Stoneburner St., Staunton, VA 24401
   With everything from candles to scented lotions, hand sanitizer, sprays, and reed diffusers, Redwood & Co. has everything you need to keep your home smelling great. The production facility for Redwood & Co. is located near Staunton homes for sale, and their products are carried by a wide variety of shops in the area and across the country. There are new scent collections for every season, with something to please every taste. The holiday scent collection is always a favorite, and you can order anything you need online if you can't make it to a store.
2. Virginia Made Shop – 54 Roe Rd., Staunton, VA 24401
   The Virginia Made Shop has long been a favorite for locals and visitors alike, with more than three decades of experience selling unique products that have been made in Virginia. This shop stocks a variety of locally made products from artisans in Staunton and throughout the state. There's a great selection of Virginia-made candles available on the shelves, along with regional treats that every member of your family can enjoy.
3. Made; by the People, for the People – 15 E Beverley St., Staunton, VA 24401
   If you love to decorate your home with the unique, unusual, and quirky, then you're sure to fall in love with Made; by the People, for the People. This eclectic shop features locally crafted candles, home décor, clothing, artwork, and so much more, all with a uniquely Staunton spin. You'll find an extensive selection of small-batch soy candles, along with kits, to create candles of your own in all of your favorite scents. The inventory here is constantly updated with new items from local artists and artisans, so check back often.
4. The Sparrow's Nest – 112 E Beverley St., Staunton, VA 24401
   Nearly everything you will find at The Sparrow's Nest has been crafted by hand, and most of it was created in the Staunton area. You're sure to be greeted by a delightful collection of scents as soon as you walk in the door, from both hand-crafted candles and the huge selection of artisan-made, locally-sourced Virginia delicacies on the shelves. The candles here are made by Ruffled Feather Candle Co., a local business that creates every candle by hand with a unique collection of scents that you won't find anywhere else.
5. Key-Z Candles – 850 Statler Blvd., Staunton, VA 24401
   A small, locally-owned candle shop located in the Statler Square shopping center, Key-Z Candles keeps things simple with 100 percent soy candles and wax melts created with a diverse selection of scents. New scents are added regularly, and there are many special, seasonal candles, so you'll find something new each time you shop.

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6. Essentially Zen Body & Bath Co. – 29 Middlebrook Ave., Staunton, VA 24401 
   From soaps and scented oils to candles, bath teas, and so much more, Essentially Zen Body & Bath Co. stocks a nearly endless collection of scents that's sure to feature something to brighten your day. You can order products individually or create a "scent profile" to order curated Zen Boxes tailored to your own unique preferences.

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7. Agora Downtown Market – 165 S Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   Agora Downtown Market is located in the heart of downtown near Harrisonburg homes for sale, with an ever-growing collection of local small businesses under one roof for convenient shopping. If you've been searching for handmade, sustainable products for your home, including locally made candles, then this is a great place to shop. Each of the shops here offers a little something different, from candles made with zero waste to unique vintage finds for your wardrobe. 

If you love shopping local and supporting unique small businesses, now is a great time to find your next home in Staunton. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Staunton, VA area.

With most of us spending more time at home this year, we've gotten used to having our furry friends around us all the time. As you start to venture out again, you might even feel a little bit guilty about leaving them behind. 

Luckily, there are many dog-friendly destinations in Shenandoah Valley. This makes it easy to take your dog with you when you head out for your next adventure! Our real estate agents love taking their dogs out on their days off. Here are a few places they recommend. 

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A post shared by White Oak Lavender Farm (@whiteoaklavender) on Jul 27, 2020 at 9:53am PDT

• White Oak Lavender Farm & The Purple Wolf Tasting Room: 2644 Cross Keys Rd., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The family-owned White Oak Lavender Farm & Purple Wolf Tasting Room welcomes both people and their pets. Stop by for a wine tasting, shop for their home-grown lavender products, and enjoy a tour. Before you finish your day, you'll want to take a drive around so you can get a look at some of the beautiful nearby Harrisonburg homes for sale. 

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A post shared by Shenandoah National Park (@shenandoahnps) on Oct 30, 2020 at 7:05am PDT

• Shenandoah National Park: Skyline Dr. & Thornton Gap (Route 211, Luray, VA 22835)
  If you've been looking at Luray Homes for Sale, you'll definitely want to get familiar with Shenandoah National Park. Here you'll find over 200,000 acres of protected lands and 500 miles of trails. All but 20 of them are dog-friendly. You and your dog can enjoy hiking, watching nature, and taking in the stunning views. Even better, you have enough options to visit a different trail each week, so you never get bored! 
• Gypsy Hill Bark Park: 116 W. Beverley St., Staunton, VA 24401
  When pet owners are exploring Staunton homes for sale, they often ask if there's a dog park nearby. Gypsy Hill Bark Park is one of the most popular. It features separated play areas for large and small dogs and ladders, tunnels, and fire hydrants to make playtime even more fun. There are plenty of benches for you to sit and relax while Fido makes new friends. Dog parks are also a great way to meet new people, especially if you're new to a neighborhood. We definitely recommend adding Gypsy Hill Bark Park to your "must visit" list.
• Purcell Park: 41 Monument Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The 67-acre Purcell Park features three picnic shelters, restrooms, and a walking trail. You can relax with your dog while the kids have fun on the Kid's Castle Playground, little league ball fields, and tennis courts. There's something here for everyone, making it the perfect outing for the entire family.
• Kiwanis Park: 302 Myers Ave., Harrisonburg, VA 2280
  Another great option is Kiwanis Park. Here you'll find 3.8 acres of green space where you and your dog can romp and play. This park also features a basketball court and playground equipment.

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• Charlottesville Dog Bakery: 1652 Old Lynchburg Rd. Charlottesville, VA 22903
  A visit to the Charlottesville Dog Bakery is always a great idea! You'll find lots of fun treats on the menu like Apple Pie, Banana Split, and Pumpkin Pie Treats -- all made with ingredients that support your dog's health. They also sell "Pawcakes" and "Bone Pupcakes" that you can decorate for your dog's birthday or any other special occasion. If your dog has anxiety, you'll love the CBD treats as well. The bakery is located near some of the best Charlottesville homes for sale. On your way home, you'll want to take a drive around and check them out.  

Are you looking for a great pet-friendly home in Shenandoah Valley? There are plenty of options to choose from! Our real estate agents would love to help you (and your dog) find your dream home. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Did you know that a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer every two minutes in the United States? Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer diagnosed in women from the United States, aside from skin cancers. Early detection is one of the keys to successful treatment of breast cancer, which is one reason why it's so important to raise awareness about the disease. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there are many ways to contribute to the cause. Our real estate agents have more details on how you can help, including participating in local fundraisers for Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

• Early Detection Is Key to Treating Breast Cancer
  Learning about breast cancer is one of the key steps that anyone can take during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and early detection of breast cancer is an important place to start. The National Breast Cancer Foundation recommends that women perform self-examinations at least once per month and that women over 40 years of age should have a mammogram every one to two years. Either a primary care physician or gynecologist can also perform a clinical breast exam to check for signs of cancer, which normally takes place during your annual exam.

• Healthy Habits Can Help Reduce the Risk of Breast Cancer
  According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, maintaining healthy habits is an important step in reducing the risk of breast cancer. The Foundation recommends maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, keeping an active lifestyle, and eating fruit/vegetables as part of a balanced diet. Other healthy steps to take include not smoking and limiting the consumption of alcohol.

• Know the Most Common Risk Factors for Breast Cancer
  Learning the risk factors for breast cancer is important for early detection, and people with certain risk factors may also be recommended to begin having mammograms at a younger age. The most common genetic risk factors include a family/personal history of breast cancer or mutations of certain genes. Lifestyle factors that can increase breast cancer risk include heavy alcohol consumption, eating a poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. While genetic risk factors can't be changed, it's possible to improve lifestyle risk factors by maintaining healthy habits.

• How to Participate in the Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5k Run/Walk
  The Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5k has raised awareness and funds in the Harrisonburg area for 18 years. This year's race will look a little different from past years because it has been changed to a virtual event for all participants' safety. Proceeds from the event go toward the RMH Foundation for Breast Care and Treatment, and you can register for the race online. Participants will receive a t-shirt, commemorating their efforts to raise breast cancer awareness.
  
  Since this is a virtual race, you can choose to run anytime during the event dates from October 11 to October 31. You can also run your race anywhere you choose. Pick your favorite park close to Harrisonburg homes for sale, run at a local track, or even complete the race on your own treadmill. When you're finished, you can upload your time online to mark your participation in the event. If you would like to participate but cannot do the 5k, you can also donate directly to the cause through the event.

Ready to start shopping for Virginia homes for sale in communities that support their own? Our team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Harrisonburg, VA area.

March Madness begins on March 17th and our real estate agents cannot wait to fill out our brackets. Even if you're not a die-hard college basketball fan, March Madness offers fun for casual and non-fans alike. The NCAA Men's Basketball tournament starts with 68 college teams playing in single-elimination games until there is one unbeaten team left standing. To make the event even more exciting, fans fill out their own brackets, trying to guess which teams will advance for each round. If you make a wrong selection, your bracket is busted! If the stars align and you choose the winner, you'll be the talk of the town. Fill out your brackets and catch all of the March Madness games at these local sports bars!

• O'Neill's Grill — 221 University Blvd., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  O'Neill's Grill is the hometown hangout for any game during any season on over 40 TVs. If you don't feel immediately at home with their warm, welcoming service, then you'll surely taste the heart that they put into every ounce of their homemade cooking. Bring your friends or make some new ones and enjoy a day full of basketball, beer, and the best home-style meals in town.
  
  
• Jalapeno Southwest Grill — 1039 Port Republic Rd., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Southwest flavor in the heart of Virginia, that's what Jalapeno Southwest Grill is all about. Serving up fajitas, tacos, quesadillas, burritos and more, Jalapeno is a spicy stop for you to share a bowl of queso or guacamole while you count the Sweet 16 down to the Final Four. Just make sure you pencil in the Jalapeno Signature Margarita into your drink bracket — it's a winner every time.  
  
  
• Billy Jack's Shack — 92 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Let's cut to the chase — yes, Harrisonburg locals will admit that the signature dishes, unique tacos, finger-licking-good boxes, and juicy burgers at Billy Jack's Shack are delicious, but we're only here to talk about one thing — donuts! Made in house with a new specialty donut cooked up each week, you've got to make one of these sweet serving a top priority. Try the Psycho Girl Scout with peanut butter, toasted marshmallow, and chocolate chips. Devour the Muddy Pig with Nutella and crispy bacon crumbles or munch through Barb's Desk Drawer with vanilla frosting and M&Ms. Trust us, these donuts are so good you won't even care that your bracket was busted!  
  
  
• Capital Ale House — 41-A Court Square, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Cheer on your favorite Virginia teams at Capital Ale House. Proudly supporting local Virginia beer, business, and agriculture, Capital Ale House has over 450 beers on draught. Their monthly specials feature seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms, giving you a true taste of Virginia in every bite. Come in and enjoy a giant Bavarian pretzel or Prince Edward Island mussels with some of the best beers in the country.  
  
  
• The Golden Pony — 181 N. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  The Golden Pony is a hot spot for scratch-made American food, delicious local beer, and the latest local music. Along with their great burgers, fresh salads, and hearty subs, they offer a pizza buffet throughout the week. If you pop by on the 17th, you'll be treated to a record release party featuring performances from Crab Action and Parmesan Mayonnaise.
  
  
• Jimmy Madison's — 121 S. Main St., Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  March Madness begins on March 17th which is also St. Patrick's Day — don't worry, Jimmy Madison's southern kitchen and whiskey bar will help you celebrate both! Sample a few with a whiskey flight and dive into one of their burgers, tacos, or meats pulled right from the smoker. Even if you're only in the mood for a drink, we insist that you order one of their amazing desserts like the Smores Pie, Warm Apple Blonde, or Chocolate Peanut Butter Pie.

Hoping to score one of our Harrisonburg homes for sale this season? Contact us and we'll help you sink an offer before the buzzer!

Micah Branson, REALTOR® and Associate Broker, talks about why she loves living in Virginia's western Rockingham County.

Fulks Run | Western Rockingham County | Mountain View Elementary School

We've asked our agents at Old Dominion Realty to share with you what they love best about the place they've chosen to call home.  

One of the things I love most about living in my community is my drive home at the end of the day. In the evening, the sun is setting over the mountains west of Harrisonburg, and I drive home right into the sunset. The colors, sunlight, and views are amazing. The four seasons are on full display as you drive west to where we live. The winter sunsets have the most beautiful array of colors, in the spring you see forsythia, daffodils, dogwoods, and redbuds blooming first, summer flowers, crops, and sun give way to fantastic fall foliage and shorter days to go home and spend time together in the evening. Our neighbors are friendly, helpful, and offer smiles and a hand regularly.

Rockingham County Schools

I enjoyed many opportunities and good memories growing up in our Rockingham County Schools here locally. This year my daughter went to Kindergarten, and we are so blessed by and thankful for the opportunity to send her into a vibrant, caring, and fun learning environment at Mountain View Elementary School. Our back to school night featured upbeat music with the staff and faculty lining the halls to welcome us into the school. We shared a meal and got to know our teachers, classroom, and even got to go on a bus ride to familiarize our daughter with all facets of school life before the first day. The first week on Friday she asked why she could not go to school on Saturday. Her teacher posts pictures and video for parents to see and interact with their child's learning, and there are ample opportunities to eat lunch with the kids and volunteer in the school. Our experience has been welcoming, unifying, and a blessing.

Local Sports Teams

My favorite local sports team would have to be the Clover Hill Bucks of the Rockingham County Baseball League. I grew up going to Bucks games in support of my two stud cousins, Addison and Dustin Bowman, and their cohort of a core of talented, competitive and fundamental baseball players who were an exceptional group to take the field together for many years. They were a joy to watch and learn from! Bucks games are a vibrant community event. The RCBL is the oldest continuous wooden bat league in the country. It has a rich history, and the challenge of hitting a moving, tiny baseball with a wood bat is still, in my opinion, one of the hardest feats in sports. The good players are successful 3/10 times at the plate. These players handle failure and move on to the next guy, the next opportunity. Our Bucks have always been hustlers, always been fundamental ballplayers, always been competitors and therefore have competed for many championships! Love going out to ball games at "the Clover Dome" where you can see many familiar faces, get a burger or hot dog fresh off the grill and catch some talented ballplayers competing for the love of the game!

Favorite Restaurant

My favorite local restaurant is the Thomas House in Dayton. My grandparents started taking me there before I can even remember. I always remember it looking the same and being the youngest person in the room. (This rarely happens now!) I take out of town friends to enjoy this local cultural experience! The food is unfailingly wonderful comfort food that feeds the stomach and the soul! You will find me ordering poor man's steak, baked chicken, their chicken casserole and scalloped potatoes and green beans. Not to mention the lettuce salad has some kind of homemade dressing that is honey mustardy but better! The sweet tea and mint tea are on point, and when I feel like I can handle more food, the peanut butter pie is my favorite dessert!

Local Coffee Shops

Local coffee shops are all pretty amazing. I like Shenandoah Joe's for their sweet artwork atop their drinks, Black Sheep for their pour-overs with chocolate undertones and poster that says, "Work hard and be nice to people." What more could you need?

Where I Go for Happy Hour

Favorite place for happy hour. I love the Cracked Pillar in Bridgewater. Always sure to find some family and friends there! The owners are super sweet and have an excellent selection that would appeal to anyone. Love sitting on their outdoor deck and enjoying beautiful weather and delicious fare!

Grocery Store

A favorite local grocery store would be the Sunrise Bakery on 257 (Ottobine Road) in Dayton. They have homemade goodies, a full deli and my friend Zane Wenger of Fat N Sassy BBQ always supplies some sort of smoked meat goodness that can make anyone's day!

Local Event Not to Miss

The favorite local event would be the Rockingham County Fair. I grew up very active in 4-H and FFA and showed market lambs and steers at the fair as a youth. One of my favorite ways to give back is to come full circle and attend the County Fair as a market animal buyer. Our community shines at this event. I love to see all the business owners and operators out together in support of our youth and programs that give them so many opportunities. Seeing so many folks I know and getting to be a small part of supporting this for our youth stirs my soul every year! Not to mention I love the real squeezed lemonade, fries from the fry shack, and the Young Farmers ice cream booth will see me every year!

Spending Time Outdoors

I cannot pick a favorite local activity. I am an outdoor junkie and love everything this area can offer. When I retire, I might lead trips to do all of these things. Here are some favorites. Love to fish from my kayak on the North and Shenandoah Rivers for anything that will bite. I like catching not fishing. My favorite hike is Old Rag in Madison County. It is so high up the vegetation changes, and the boulders up top are the size of cars. You have to scramble through rocks, so cool! Biking I like the Blueberry Trail in Union Springs. Swimming, I love Blue Hole, but it better be 100 degrees that thing is cold! Horseback riding my favorite trail is the North River Gorge. Winds along the river and through the woods. This is fun to do on a bike too or on foot and take a fishing pole but be prepared for lots of river crossings. Hunting my favorite is the beginning of bow season when it's not so cold on family land in Pendleton County, WV with a younger kid along with me and lots of snacks! Fishing my favorite spot is fly fishing at Big Run in Pendleton County, where my grandfather taught me to fly fish.

Local Businesses I Love

Local businesses I love. There are so many. Premier Auto Body. Yes, I have needed them a few times. So fast, so sweet and so welcoming. Blessings Christian Bookstore. If they don't have it, they will order it. They remember my name and are such a sweet, family-run business. Dry River Tree Service. Hardworking guys that take care of each and every customer! Strickler Carpet and Floorcovering. Treat people right and are always reasonable, fast, and professional. The Dayton Farmers Market and all the businesses in there. A local icon for years. Whether it's for a gift, for lunch or just looking I love to walk into the Farmers Market. The Shenandoah Valley Produce Auction. I don't always need a pallet of veggies, but it is always fun to watch them auction off and eat at the local run food stand with homemade goodies!

Three words that describe why I love living in our community. Values. Unity. Creation.

My favorite part of working in real estate is being a part of the process of dreaming with clients! Hearing what stirs the heart of my clients in what they are looking for and working through the process of finding a way to make it happen and navigating the steps to make it come true!

Find out more about Micah Branson on her website.

There was a time when eating a gluten-free diet meant you had limited choices for dining out. However, as more health-conscious people have adopted this way of eating, restaurants are taking note. 

Potential homebuyers often ask our real estate agents for local restaurant recommendations, and we're happy to report that there are many gluten-free dining options nearby. Next time you're in the area looking at Harrisonburg homes for sale, check out one of these excellent gluten-free hot spots. 

1. Vito's Italian Kitchen - 1047 Port Republic Rd, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   Local favorite Vito's Italian Kitchen caters to the gluten-free crowd with a separate gluten-free menu that includes a variety of salads, pasta dishes, and pizza. 
   
   
2. Jimmy Maddison's - 121 South Main St. Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   The home of Southern cuisine, premium whiskeys, and soulful music, Jimmy Mattison's features a wide array of gluten-free menu options that you're sure to love. Try the She Crab Soup, Shrimp and Grits, Blackened Catfish, and Collard Greens with Ham. 
   
   
3. Grilled Cheese Mania - 1476 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   You might not expect to see delicious grilled cheese on this list, but Grilled Cheese Mania seems to have thought of everything. Try their Classic Johnny or the Mama Mania made with mozzarella, pesto, tomato, and sriracha hot sauce. Both of these awesome sandwiches are made with Canyon Bakehouse gluten-free bread so you can enjoy them to your heart's content. 
   
   
4. A Bowl of Good - 831 Mt Clinton Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
   For unique, healthy menu choices, you can go wrong with A Bowl of Good. They serve up hot and cold bowls that can be made gluten-free by switching out the bread or pita and replacing it with corn tortillas or chips. Try the "Out of Africa Bowl" (Nigerian Stew), the "It's All Greek to Me" (Greek garbanzo salad), or the "Red, White, and Moo Bowl" (beef and bean chili). 
   
   
5. Heritage Bakery and Cafe - 212 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   Going gluten-free doesn't mean you have to give up your sweet tooth! Heritage Bakery and Cafe offers gluten-free muffins, giant cookies, and hand-made granola bowls. Dine in, take your treats home with you, or consider booking a spot at one of their super-popular Sunday Tea events. 
   
   
6. Boboko Indonesian Cafe: 217 South Liberty St. #102 Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   A cozy restaurant with delicious ethnic food, Boboko Indonesian Cafe offers a wide selection of gluten-free menu items. You'll definitely want to try the Teriyaki Summer Rolls, Spiced Sesame Salmon, or Potato and Tofu Curry. When you eat at Boboko, you can feel confident that you're getting the highest quality ingredients including antibiotic-free chicken and locally-sourced produce. 
   
   
7. Greens & Grains Cafe - 865 Port Republic Road Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   A popular place for healthy eating alternatives, Greens & Grains Cafe clearly marks the vegetarian and gluten-free options on their menu. Try the Fall Harvest Salad, Crab Bisque, Wild Salmon Salad, or the Mushroom & Brie Soup. 

Want to learn more about all the things there are to love about living in Harrisonburg? We would love to show you around! Contact us today to schedule an appointment. 

There are plenty of Harrisonburg homes for sale to choose from, but any of them will put you right in the middle of fun and excitement. One of the best things about beautiful Harrisonburg is its energetic live music scene. Lots of memorable acts originated right here, so there's always a show going on.

Summer is concert season, and the action is in full swing in August.

Our real estate agents are looking forward to these cool August concerts:

1. Late Bloomer – 181 North Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
   Headlining a night of music on August 13 is Late Bloomer, a North Carolina trio with a unique take on hook-driven guitar rock, punk, and indie. Fresh from their successful third full-length album, they have never sounded more dynamic or compelling than they do now. They'll be joined by indie rock duo Bloom, whose May 2019 EP soared to 100,000 views in just two weeks.
2. Bruce Allen – 1230 Old Furnace Road, Harrisonburg, VA 22802
   Visiting the Fraternal Order of Eagles on Friday, August 16, Bruce Allen will bring his brand of county music to the Harrisonburg stage. Soloist Allen is a veteran of the Nashville music scene known for his versatility, soulful performances, and compelling lyrics. It's all brought to you by one of the most prominent nonprofits from right here in the 'Burg.
3. Unspoken Tradition – 153 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   Bluegrass band Unspoken Tradition celebrates the culture of North Carolina in its music, looking forward to the future while honoring the state's rich past. Now on tour, the five-person band will hit the stage on August 7. Expect to hear their chart-topping radio singles as well as some new takes on their nostalgic, yet sincere sound. You won't want to miss it!
4. The Seldom Scene – 41 F Court Square, Harrisonburg, VA, 22801
   The Seldom Scene is one of the longest-running and most popular bluegrass bands playing in the Harrisonburg area. Founded in 1971 in Bethesda, Maryland, the Seldom Scene is a leading name in progressive bluegrass. Its five members create shows with bluegrass versions of hot hits from genres like country, rock, and even pop. They'll be in Harrisonburg on Friday, August 16.
5. Queen of Jeans – 122 South Main Street, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   Queen of Jeans headlines on August 7 in Harrisonburg, part of a night of music featuring fresh new sounds from young bands. Bringing their experimental alternative sound to Harrisonburg, these musical pioneers – who got started in the business with a debut album in 2016 – have a style that blends subversive elements with angelic female-led harmonies.
6. Rockingham County Fair 2019 – 4808 South Valley Pike, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
   No list of cool August events would be complete without the best way to relax and unwind after a day of visiting Rockingham County homes for sale: The one and only Rockingham County Fair. The Fair has been going since 1949 and has grown every year. Fair Week entertainment will include Morgan Wallen, Aaron Lewis, Scotty McCreery, and many others on multiple stages.

There's much more to see and do in Harrisonburg. With help from our team, you'll find the perfect home to experience it all. Contact us today to learn about local real estate opportunities.

Harrisonburg celebrates July 4 with fireworks, food, family fun, and community events packing the holiday's schedule. Harrisonburg's July 4 celebration has a new name – Friendly City Fourth – and all of your favorite Independence Day events will be returning for another fun-filled holiday.

Start your day with a run, enjoy all of the great food that the city has to offer, participate in family-friendly activities, listen to live music, and settle in for a spectacular fireworks display to cap off the day. Our real estate agents have the details on all of the great events happening in Harrisonburg on July 4.

Friendly City Fourth

• Valley 4th Run – 8:30 am – Main St. and Liberty St., Harrisonburg 22801
  Harrisonburg homes for sale make it easy to participate in all of the fun activities planned for July 4, including the Valley 4th Run to start the day. Kick off the July 4 festivities by choosing your run (1.5 miles, 5k, or 10k), and choosing the charity you would like to support. The race is open to all ages and skill levels, which has helped it grow into the most popular way to start your day in Harrisonburg on July 4.

• Classic Car Cruise-In
  Take a break after your morning run, then head downtown to Turner Pavilion to start celebrating at Friendly City Fourth. All evening, you'll have the chance to scout out the Classic Car Cruise-In, where some of Harrisonburg's most beautiful classic cars will be on display. Of course, you're welcome to show off your own classic ride, as well.

• Food Trucks and Local Beer Garden
  You're sure to build up an appetite enjoying all that Friendly City Fourth has to offer, and there will be plenty of local vendors on-hand to help you conquer that hunger. There will be food trucks from throughout the region serving up July 4 treats, along with a local beer garden featuring the biggest names in the Harrisonburg craft brewing scene.

• Art Market and Kids Activities
  Looking to pick up a souvenir, or find some fun activities for younger members of the family? The art market is an excellent place to pick up something unique for your home or grab a gift that you won't find anywhere else. There are also loads of fun activities for kids throughout the day at Friendly City Fourth.

• Friendly City Fortune Raffle
  Are you feeling lucky? The Friendly City Fortune Raffle is the biggest in the Valley, with more than $250,000 in prizes. Tickets will be available throughout the day, with a winner announced near the close of the evening.

• Live Music All Evening
  Enjoy the soundtrack of summer with live music all evening from Strong Water and Kendall Street Company, two local bands with reputations for putting on an excellent live show.

• A Dazzling Fireworks Display
  All of the day's events build up to the big moment around 9:00 pm when the fireworks show begins. Every year, the fireworks display at Friendly City Fourth seems to get more impressive, and this is set to be the most spectacular display yet.

Still searching for the right home in Harrisonburg, where you can enjoy great holiday events like Friendly City Fourth throughout the year? We can help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Harrisonburg, VA area.

Let's welcome the warmer weather by celebrating Learn to Swim Day on May 18th. Our real estate agents believe teaching your little ones to swim can be a positive experience that helps them develop their motor skills, instills them with courage and exposes them to a fun activity that they can enjoy for the rest of their lives. If you'd like to join us in celebrating National Learn to Swim Day this May, we suggest that you consider these six locations that offer swimming lessons for children.

1. James Madison University Recreation Center – 701 Driver Dr., Harrisonburg, VA 22807 
   James Madison University has a campus that's bursting with immersive learning experiences, and their swim lessons are just as engaging and educational. UREC offers both private and group swim lessons for children and adults. Group lessons are held on Saturday mornings and are divided into three categories: a parent and child group for little ones aged 6 months to 3 years old, a preschool group for 4 and 5-year-olds, and a youth group for kids 6 to 9. Private lessons offer one-on-one instruction for new swimmers aged 3 and above, even adults!
    
2. East Rockingham Recreation Association – 1250 Barracuda Dr., Rockingham, VA 22801 
   Those living in the southeast area of Harrisonburg can find swim lessons conveniently located at the East Rockingham Recreation Association. Their private lessons are open to everyone, even non-EERA members. Your children can take five, 30-minute one-on-one lessons with their instructors and start the summer off swimmingly!
   
   
3. Westover Pool – 305 South Dogwood Dr., Harrisonburg, VA 22801 
   The Westover Pool is located near plenty of beautiful Harrisonburg homes for sale and provides residents with fun all year long! Private swim lessons are available during the summer for residents and nonresidents of all ages. They also have group child swimming lessons which include preschool classes for little ones and five levels of instruction for kids ages 6-15. Westover Pool is a fantastic place for families to come together with their children and make amazing summer memories.
    
4. Sentara RMH Wellness Center – 2500 Wellness Dr., Harrisonburg, VA 22801 
   The Sentara RMH Wellness Center is pleased to offer aquatic activities including group swim lessons. The Baby & Me and Toddler & Me group swim lessons bring parents into the pool with their little ones for a fun and safe session. The Preschool group focuses on children 3-5, and there is also a swim group for kids ages 6-12. Those who would prefer private lessons for their preschool-plus aged children can schedule one-on-one instruction as well.
   
   
5. Ashby Recreational Association – 250 Anaconda Way, Bridgewater, VA 22812 
   This member's only pool offers families a friendly space to play and relax during the summer. The Ashby Recreation Association provides private swim lessons for children that teach them how to be safe both in and near the water. All lessons are geared to each child's developmental age, so every experience is appropriate and positive. Schedule your little one's first lessons on National Learn to Swim Day, and they'll be ready to float on their own by the time summer kicks into full swing!
   
   
6. Staunton-Augusta Family YMCA – 708 N. Coalter St., Staunton, VA 22401 
   The Staunton-Augusta Family YMCA is the perfect place to enroll your child for swim lessons. Although they do offer private swim lessons, they provide group lessons that get children acquainted with the water and learn basic swimming, safety and rescue skills while developing their confidence.

Contact us for information about buying one of our Harrisonburg homes for sale and living in our nearby communities.

In observation of National Lost Dog Awareness Day on April 23rd, our real estate agents encourage the caring residents of West Virginia and Virginia to help their fellow neighbors reunite with their missing pets. Though many of these animals return home to their owners, some of them are abandoned and are discovered by our local rescue centers. After you buy one of our beautiful Virginia or West Virginia homes for sale, we invite you to visit a local adoption center and consider adding a four-legged friend to your growing family.

1. Basset Rescue of Old Dominion – 3445 Seminole Trail, Charlottesville, VA 22901 
   Affectionately known as BROOD, Basset Rescue of Old Dominion is dedicated to finding loving and safe homes for the abandoned basset hounds of the greater Virginia, West Virginia and surrounding areas. If you've always wanted an adorable basset hound, feel free to give BROOD a call while you're shopping Charlottesville homes for sale.
   
   
2. Page County Animal Shelter – 1261 Goodrich Rd., Stanley, VA 22851 
   Page County Animal Shelter has a team of passionate individuals who work hard to make their organization a safe and caring center for homeless animals in need. Close to many Page County homes for sale, Page County Animal Shelter welcomes any individuals who can help them find homes for all of their sheltered pets.
   
   
3. Cat's Cradle – PO Box 2152, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 
   Although Cat's Cradle, located near our wide selection of Harrisonburg homes for sale, primarily cares for the cats of the Shenandoah Valley, they also offer a service that connects members of the community with pet owners that need to rehome their dogs. Find a furry new friend while helping your fellow neighbor find a new home for their pet.
    
4. Rockingham/Harrisonburg SPCA – 2170 Old Furnace Rd., Harrisonburg, VA 22802 
   The folks at Rockingham/Harrisonburg SPCA believe that adopting a shelter pet is an act of compassion. They help new owners by providing each animal with vaccines, flea/worm medication, and a microchip. Save a cute dog that was found wandering near Rockingham County homes for sale and give it a home of their own with help from the SPCA.
   
   
5. Shenandoah Shepard Rescue – PO Box 764, Stephens City, VA 22655
   Every dog deserves a home and the volunteers at Shenandoah Shepard Rescue are committed to pairing their rescued German shepherds and other shepherd breeds with responsible, loving homeowners. In an effort to rescue dogs from untimely deaths in shelters, SSR is trying to expand their reach well beyond the Virginia area. If you're interested in viewing Shenandoah County homes for sale with large backyards, SSR has plenty of German shepherds that would love to call your next property home.
    
6. Humane Society of Shenandoah County – PO Box, 173, Woodstock, VA 22664 
   Located just minutes from beautiful Woodstock homes for sale, the Humane Society of Shenandoah County promotes responsible pet ownership to limit the number of pets that enter into shelters. They provide veterinary assistance to pets of local residents and facilitate a spay/neuter program that can help decrease the number of future abandoned animals in the area. Help the Humane Society accomplish its goal by adopting one of their loving dogs.

National Lost Dog Awareness Day reminds us all that there are many beloved pets that have been lost, abandoned or born into homelessness throughout Virginia and West Virginia areas. However, April 23rd is also a day in which we can celebrate the reunion between lost dogs and their owners as well as shelter canines that find homes with new owners. For more information about VA/WVA shelters or to browse gorgeous area homes for sale, contact us today!

Are you a yoga fanatic, or simply looking for a new, relaxing way to work out close to home? No matter your experience level, yoga can be a beneficial workout for both body and mind. People of all ages and fitness levels participate in yoga classes, and for many yoga becomes a way of life. In addition to being a great place to exercise, yoga classes also present an excellent opportunity to meet new, like-minded people close to home. Our real estate agents are here to help you find the right spot to pursue your yoga passions, with our guide to seven great yoga studios in our OmTown.

Where to Find 7 Great Yoga Studios Close to Home

1. The Center – 217 S Liberty St Ste 201, Harrisonburg
   Harrisonburg homes make it easy to reach many of the yoga destinations on our list, including The Center which is conveniently located downtown. The Center offers classes in yoga, pilates, meditation, and so much more. There are workshops, events, and even a 200-hour training program if you're interested in becoming an instructor.
   
   
2. The Nest Yoga + Fitness Studio – 315 Lucy Dr, Harrisonburg
   With classes for every age, experience, and fitness level, The Nest Yoga + Fitness Studio aims to provide an accessible experience for everyone who attends. Work with instructors to learn the basics, take a specialty class, enjoy a private lesson, or even schedule a relaxing massage.
   
   
3. Evolation Yoga Harrisonburg – 90 N Main St Ste 101, Harrisonburg
   Take a break from the daily grind to enjoy a class at Evolation Yoga, where a small team of instructors can help you accomplish big things. There are classes every day of the week, with 60-minute, 90-minute, and specialty options available at convenient times throughout the day.
   
   
4. A Quiet Place Yoga and More – 725 S High St, Harrisonburg
   Looking for a yoga studio where the focus is always on the individual? At A Quiet Place Yoga and More, classes are designed to make everyone feel comfortable. Practice yoga, learn at your own pace and pick up healthy dining tips from an experienced, friendly team.
   
   
5. FlyDog Yoga – 1039 Millmont St, Charlottesville
   If you're shopping for Charlottesville homes for sale, you won't need to travel far to reach an excellent yoga studio. FlyDog Yoga offers regular classes, workshops, events, and teacher training, in an inspiring, empowering atmosphere. New to yoga? The team at FlyDog will be happy to show you the ropes, and help you start on your journey.
   
   
6. Opal Yoga – 949 Second St SE, Charlottesville
   Head to Opal Yoga in Charlottesville for fun, affordable yoga classes, taught by instructors who love to share the benefits of yoga with people from diverse backgrounds. Purchase a day pass to see what the studio is like, or grab a monthly pass to sample all that Opal Yoga has to offer.
   
   
7. Shenandoah Powerhouse Gym and Fitness Studio – 2800 West Main St., Waynesboro
   Shopping for Waynesboro homes for sale? Then the Shenandoah Powerhouse Gym and Fitness Studio is the perfect place to keep up with your workout routine, with a modern, fully equipped gym, exercise classes of every type, and of course yoga! Other group classes at Shenandoah Powerhouse include spinning, TKO, quick super sculpt classes, and hip hop workouts, so there's always something new to try.

Still searching for the right home near all of the excellent yoga studios in our area? Our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes throughout the Harrisonburg, VA area.

When you're touring Harrisonburg homes for sale, you'll quickly discover our hometown is a beautiful place to live, work, and raise a family. However, there's one more reason to love our city, the newly opened Hotel Madison & Shenandoah Valley Conference Center.  Our real estate agents are passionate about the community we call home, and we're excited to show new clients all we have to offer.

World-Class Meeting Facilities In the Heart of the Shenandoah Valley

Hotel Madison's opening in May 2018 provided a means for the community, James Madison University, and business leaders from across the Shenandoah Valley and beyond to connect.  While interest in a location to hold conferences and conventions in the area existed from some time, facilities large enough to accommodate such meetings had been missing. Hotel Madison's 21,000 square foot conference center features a banquet and ballroom, perfect for both business and industry meetings as well as private events. The hotel and conference center are already booking events well into the future, proof that the outlook for this venue is bright indeed.

Hotel Madison is dog-friendly. We greet your furry friends with a host of treats designed especially to please them. When you make reservations, be sure to tell the staff that your pet will be accompanying you.  Please note not all rooms are designed to accommodate dogs. The hotel charges an additional charge for their stay.

Visitors have easy access to the facility from I-81, Route 11, and the Shenandoah Regional Airport.  It's location at the corner of Main Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Way places Hotel Madison in Harrisonburg's Downtown on James Madison University's campus next to Madison Hall, site of Undergraduate Admissions.

An Air of Sophistication and Rustic Charm

Hotel and conference center guests find an atmosphere of simple elegance alongside superior amenities during their stay. Here you'll find rooms with mountain and downtown views, a farm-to-table restaurant, and spacious ballrooms and boardrooms.  Hotel Madison offers valet parking and concierge service to ensure that visitors have access to area information and can experience all the wonders of the region. The hotel boasts 230 beautifully appointed guest rooms and offers special packages throughout the year. Hotel guests certainly won't go hungry either. In addition to the Montpelier Restaurant and Bar, the hotel also has a coffee and wine bar, a casual dining spot in the lobby, and in-room dining service for those looking to have a private meal. An indoor pool and fitness center are also available for guest use during their stay.  

Building a Stronger Harrisonburg

Hotel Madison is the official hotel of James Madison University and has partnered with the school to offer a unique learning opportunity for its students. The University's Hart School of Hospitality holds classes at the conference center to immerse students in the industry as they learn. Also home to a range of JMU events, Hotel Madison prides itself on helping its students ready themselves for their future. Centrally located in Downtown Harrisonburg, the hotel is an ideal accommodation for those attending events held by other area colleges and universities as well.

Your Harrisonburg Real Estate Professionals

Hotel Madison makes exploring downtown Harrisonburg convenient, and it's easily accessible from major highways and interstates and the regional airport. Contact Old Dominion Realty when you're ready to start your search for homes for sale in Central Virginia's Shenandoah Valley real estate area.

If you are among the estimated 266,120 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer in 2018, you are familiar with the swirling rollercoaster of emotions and questions that come with the diagnosis.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Agencies, hospitals, groups, and individuals working throughout the year to raise money for research, prevention, and treatment of breast cancer. Individuals like you participate in walks, runs, and other special events to raise funds for the cause.  Our REALTORS® are here with information on how you can support the cause in Harrisonburg.

How Harrisonburg Helps in the Fight

16th Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk

Here in Harrisonburg, the 16th Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk is happening on Saturday, October 20. The 5K Run/Walk takes off at Westover Park, 305 South Dogwood Drive, Harrisonburg. The Harrisonburg Parks and Recreation Department is organizing the event. Proceeds from the race provide women in our community with treatment, support, and funding for mammograms at the RMH Foundation for Breast Care and Treatment at the Sentara RMH Medical Center.

The day begins at 7 am with all participants gathering at 9 am for the opening ceremony to hear testimonials from cancer survivors. The race takes off at 9:30 am. Almost 600 individuals and teams participated in the 2017 event.

Old Dominion Realty employees, Janet Harrison and Kari Miller, and family members participating in the 5K run/walk as team members.

Sentara RMH Funkhouser Women's Center - 275 Health Campus Drive, Harrisonburg

The Sentara RMH Funkhouser Women's Center believes a warm, nurturing environment promotes healing for women. Their breast care program includes screening digital mammography or 3D mammography services, breast ultrasound, stereotactic and ultrasound breast biopsies, molecular breast imaging, breast health navigators, a dedicated breast surgeon, and genetic testing.

Massanutten Regional Library - 174 S Main St, Harrisonburg, VA 22801

Harrisonburg's Massanutten Regional Library recently received a $700 grant from the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation to use on books and literature for breast cancer patients and survivors to learn more about living with and recovering from the disease.

The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation - 2821 Emerywood Pkwy #203, Richmond

Whether you've recently received a breast cancer diagnosis, currently undergoing treatment, or are a breast cancer survivor, the Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation works to end breast cancer and to educate Virginians on the facts about breast cancer.

The Virginia Breast Cancer Foundation provides a directory of support groups in Virginia run by hospitals and various community groups.

Published dates and times may vary so be sure to call before attending. Harrisonburg has several groups available:

• Caregiver's Support Group - For caregivers only
  Sentara RMH Funkhouser Women's Center
  530 Neff Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Meeting Days: 3rd Friday of each month / 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm
  Contact: Elaine Dunaway/ 540-689-7065
  Please call to register.
  
  
• General Cancer Support Group - For all types of cancers
  Sentara RMH Funkhouser Women's Center
  530 Neff Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Meeting Days: 3rd Monday of each month / 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
  Contact: Elaine Dunaway/540-689-7065
  Please call to register.
  
  
• Women's Cancer Support Group - A collaborative service of Sentara RMH Hahn Cancer Center and Sentara RMH Funkhouser Women's Center.
  Sentara RMH Funkhouser Women's Center
  530 Neff Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Meeting Days: 4th Thursday of each month
  Meeting Time: 6:00 pm
  Contact: Elaine Dunaway/540-689-7065
  Please call to register.
  
  
• You Can Live Well! - You Can Live Well! is a six-week program offered three times a year for cancer survivors and their caregivers. The group is designed to help lower the distress associated with a diagnosis of cancer, cancer treatment, caregiving, and survivorship.
  Sentara RMH Funkhouser Women's Center
  530 Neff Avenue, Harrisonburg, VA 22801
  Meeting Days: Call for Schedule
  Contact: Elaine Dunaway/ 540-689-7065
  Call for the next group time.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month gives us the chance to shed light on the facts surrounding breast cancer and how we can support the fight by becoming involved in local events.

Join Old Dominion Realty at Westover Park on Saturday, October 20 at 16th Annual Race to Beat Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk. Contact us for more information about the race.

Harrisonburg, lovingly called Rocktown or The Friendly City by locals, has earned its reputation as a home for foodies, arts and culture aficionados, and history buffs. Located in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, Harrisonburg is the perfect combination of city and rural living. 

If you're in the process of searching Harrisonburg homes for sale, and you're questioning about whether to buy or build a home, our real estate agents are proud to say we've helped clients buy existing homes and lots for over 50 years.  Harrisonburg has a number of subdivisions with lots ready to build your dream home.  We're here to introduce you to the Highland Park neighborhood.

Harrisonburg Living: The Highland Park Neighborhood

The Highland Park subdivision in Harrisonburg is no exception with its convenient location on the outskirts of Harrisonburg on its beautiful lots. An ideal site for building a home, Highland Park has been around for more than two decades and offers its residents a welcoming neighborhood feel with plenty of mature trees and a softly rolling landscape. The neighborhood has easy access to shopping, schools, and other popular amenities like the Lakeview Golf Course, Shenandoah Lake, and Sentra RMH Hospital. 

Building a Home in Highland Park

If you're building a home in Highland Park or any one of the Shenandoah Valley's other communities, there are certain factors you'll need to take into consideration before you start.  Here's a checklist of seven things to consider when you're thinking about building a home.

1. Pinpoint Your Building Location
   Choosing where you want to live is just as important as your decision to build a house. You'll want to consider factors like proximity to work, schools, and amenities of course, and if you wish to live in an established community. Take your time, and consult with a qualified real estate agent who can help you narrow your search for the perfect neighborhood.
2. Know Your Budget Well
   You may have already worked out a construction budget, but if you haven't, planning well ahead of time is recommended. What you will pay for your lot will be in addition to the actual home construction cost, and you need to plan for extra expenses during construction such as permits and fees.
3. Selecting Your Contractor
   Deciding who will build your home is a significant decision and one that will affect the entire process. While adhering to your budget is critical, money shouldn't be the only deciding factor in choosing your builder. Check their credentials, references, and warranties offered as well as viewing homes they have recently built in the area. Our real estate agents are an excellent resource for finding local contractors.
4. Design and Features
   Once you know your budget, your location, and your builder, you can focus more on visualizing the house you want to build. Your contractor will likely be able to make suggestions based on your tastes and budget if you do not have a clear image of the result. Be open and honest when communicating with your builder to avoid misunderstandings and costly adjustments during construction.
5. Lot Compatibility
   Another pre-construction consideration is the lay of your land in regards to the type of home you are planning to build. Will any modifications such as extra grading be necessary? If so, will your budget support the additional expense?
6. Work With Local Contractors
   Consider hiring builders and subcontractors from the area, as these professionals are familiar with the land, neighborhoods and construction requirements. Your home builder will also have access to most or all of the subcontractors required to complete the construction of your home. It's much easier to check references and credentials locally.
7. Colors, Fixtures and More
   Perhaps one of the most enjoyable aspects of building your own home is being able to decide on the interior design. Adding your personal touch is essential when choosing the wall color, flooring material, cabinetry, and fixtures, but it's also advised to shy away from trends. Staying with classic design elements may give your home more value in the long run, and you can always add flair with furniture and decor.

We'd love to discuss your real estate goals and partner with you in locating your perfect home or lot for building. Listing agent Gail Mitchell from our team at Old Dominion Realty to learn more about building your dream home in Highland Park.

If there are two things that go better together than cold beer and live music, we haven't found them yet (though, rest assured, we have our best people on it). Until then, the Rocktown Beer and Music Festival is about as good as it gets, bringing its namesake brews and tunes to Harrisonburg, VA every year to great acclaim. This year's festival is right around the corner, and our REALTORS® recommend that you check it out. 

Rocktown Beer & Music Festival - a Harrisonburg Tradition

The Rocktown Beer and Music Festival is now in its 8th year, and it continues to grow. Every year, rain or shine, this event brings 3,000 beer and music fans to Downtown Harrisonburg's Turner Pavilion and Park for a day of fun and festivities. This year, the festival hits Turner Pavilion on Saturday, April 21.

The festival got its start in 2011. Tim Brady, the founder of Pale Fire Brewing Co. and one of the founding fathers of the Rocktown Beer and Music Festival, envisioned a homegrown craft beer festival in Harrisonburg that highlighted the city's vibrant community and growing craft beer scene. The addition of a musical component was a natural fit, and the festival has evolved over the years to feature an eclectic assortment of bands ranging from country and Americana to indie and alternative rock.

Beer, Music, and Community

The 2018 Rocktown Beer and Music Festival is just days away, and it promises to be one of the best yet. Indie rockers The Trongone Band, singer-songwriter ADAR, and modern folk revivalists Illiterate Light are set to perform this year, joining the deep ranks of incredible talent that has graced the stage at past Rocktown festivals, including the likes of Nikki Lane, The War On Drugs, and The Steel Wheels.

Of course, it wouldn't be a "Beer and Music" festival without beer, and craft brew enthusiasts are unlikely to walk away disappointed. The festival will highlight beers from more than 30 craft breweries, including locals like Three Brothers Brewing Co. and Pale Fire Brewing Co. as well as dozens of incredible brewers from across the country. Whatever your craft beer style of choice, you'll have an incredible variety of new and exciting brews to choose from.

Tickets on Sale Now

Your ticket to the Rocktown Beer and Music Festival includes ten 4 ounce pours—your bracelet will be marked each time you have sample—along with a souvenir 5-ounce sampling glass, sampling of 76-plus craft beers, and access to the full day of live entertainment. There will also be plenty of vendors offering food and drinks at an additional cost. Tickets are available online until 3 PM on the day of the festival.

Old Dominion Realty is committed to not only helping you find the best homes in Harrisonburg, but also enjoying your life here to its fullest.   Contact Old Dominion Realty to start your search for a home in Harrisonburg and to learn more about this event, and other great events that are coming up in the Harrisonburg, VA area.

Are you ready to put on your running shoes, spend some time with the community, and support a great cause in the process? Then we hope to see you at the Shenandoah Valley Autism Partnership's 11th Annual 5K Run/Walk for Autism! Every year, this well-attended local event provides an opportunity to raise autism awareness, raise funds for the Shenandoah Valley Autism Partnership, and bring the community together. Many of our REALTORS® with their families and friends will be hitting the streets to participate in the 5K Run/Walk for Autism, and we've got all the details on how you can join us for this wonderful, local event. 

Hit the Streets of Harrisonburg for the 5K Run/Walk for Autism in 2018

The Event: Shenandoah Valley Autism Partnership 5KRun/Walk for Autism
Where: Eastern Mennonite University Commons in Harrisonburg, VA
When: Saturday April 21, 2018
Key Times: Check-In/Walk-Up Registration (7:15 AM), Introductions (9:00 AM), Start of 5K Walk/Run (9:30 AM)

11 Years Strong for the SVAP 5k Run/Walk for Autism

Every year around this time, residents from throughout the Shenandoah Valley come together in Harrisonburg to support the Shenandoah Valley Autism Partnership's 5K Run/Walk for Autism, and raise money for a cause that touches so many of our hearts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 68 children is diagnosed with Autism, which can cause a wide range of developmental challenges. This year's event will be the 11^th Annual Run/Walk for Autism, and support only seems to grow stronger with each passing year.

How to Sign Up and What to Expect on Race Day

Are you ready to register, and support this great event? The easiest option is to register online, with online registration available until April 18, 2018. If you're not able to register ahead of time, simply show up at 7:15 AM on race day, and you'll have the option to register on-site. The registration fee is $20 for individuals, or $15 for each member of a team. There's an added fee of $10 for on-site registration, and it's all going toward a great cause.

The race will take you through the scenic commons of Eastern Mennonite University, and participants are encouraged to reach the finish line at their own pace. You'll have plenty of company if you want to run and try to beat your best time, but you're also welcome to walk at whatever pace is most comfortable.

Support a Great, Local Cause and Have Fun in the Process

The Shenandoah Valley Autism Partnership is dedicated to improving quality of life for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder. SVAP advocates for people with Autism, provides a support system, organizes events like the 5k Run/Walk, and offers networking opportunities for families and professionals. The 5K Run/Walk for Autism is the signature fundraising event of the SVAP, and a great opportunity to get involved with the cause first-hand.

Look for Old Dominion Realty at the 5K Run/Walk for Autism 2018

Our team is proud to support the local causes that make our corner of Virginia such a special place to call home, and we'll have plenty of team members at the 5K Run/Walk for Autism if you'd like to stop by and say hello. Look for Old Dominion team members Janet Harrison, Kari Miller, Linda Goodson, Kristen and Kendra Eppard, Suzanne Riddleberger, and Renee Whitmore at the event this year. We hope to see you there!

Are you shopping for homes in Harrisonburg, and looking to work with a local, knowledgeable real estate team? Contact Old Dominion Realty for all of your Harrisonburg real estate needs.

Harrisonburg Restaurant Week is one of the biggest culinary experiences in Virginia!

It all takes place March 5-11 throughout Harrisonburg, VA. The best restaurants in the city are working together to create a truly enthralling week of fine cuisine and fascinating events.

Not only will you have the chance to sample foods from the area's greatest chefs, but you'll also get to see unprecedented collaborations between Harrisonburg's favorite dining spots. Delightful dishes you can't find anywhere else are a major part of Restaurant Week.

The Best Food and Beyond: Harrisonburg Restaurant Week is a Yearly Tradition

Harrisonburg has long been known for its "foodie culture." It's been recognized by national media for the high concentration of quality dining spots, organic crops, and locavore options.

Not surprisingly, many Harrisonburg residents like to get involved by doing a little cooking of their own. If you love to whip up dinner at home now and then, you won't be disappointed.

Innovative menus are on offer from dozens of restaurants running the gamut from fine dining to American to pizza, bakeries, and sweets. Collaborations will give you an amazing opportunity to check out Harrisonburg's growing craft brewery, winery, and coffee scenes.

In addition to some of the best lunch and dinner menus you'll enjoy all year, Restaurant Week is lauded for its terrific interactive events and workshops. Chef demos and "meet and greets" mean you'll pick up insider secrets from your favorite chefs and even get to know them a little better.

Scheduled events include:

• The Valley Dish IV
  The Valley Dish is a cornerstone event at Harrisonburg Restaurant Week. It is sponsored by Shenandoah Valley Organic as a unique collaborative farm-to-table dinner. The food and drink selections are tailored to showcase the area's outstanding local ingredients.
• Harrisonburg Farmer's Market Chef Demos
  Chef demonstrations at the beautiful Turner Pavilion and Park and include chefs from LOCAL Chop & Grill House and Jimmy Madison's. It all takes place Saturday, March 3 at 9 a.m. – the perfect way to kick off the foodie festivities.
• Inspired Cocktails
  Want to learn how to mix with the best of them? Amateur mixologists can get pointers from the pros when they drop by Food.Bar.Food on Saturday, March 10 starting at 2:30. Owner Amanda Cannon will give you tips on how to create inspired custom cocktails fast.

Got Your Food Fix? Maybe It's Time to Go a Step Further

Harrisonburg is a welcoming community that's just bursting with events like Restaurant Week. No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something that will appeal to you here.

If you want to explore the possibilities and find your dream home in Harrisonburg, the experts at Old Dominion Realty are here to help. Our REALTORS® are always available to offer you the personalized care and local insight that will make your hunt for Harrisonburg homes a success.

Why not get started today? To find out more, contact Old Dominion Realty.

For growing families, school quality is an important factor when buying a home.  Harrisonburg, VA is known for many features that appeal to families--one of the most vital being excellent schools.

Families moving to Harrisonburg will find plenty of public and private school options from pre-K to college prep. Harrisonburg provides an atmosphere where every child has the opportunity to do his or her best academically. 

How to Find the Best Schools in Harrisonburg

Some communities have just a sprinkling of schools, but Harrisonburg is truly rich in this area. With that in mind, it can even be difficult to decide which school is right for your young learners. With a systematic process, you can compare your options more easily.

Here's how:

1. Review School Statistics
   Many factors go into a good school, and not all are easy to measure. Most parents find, however, recent test scores are a good place to start. When scores are high – especially in notoriously difficult subjects like math – it means the "average student" has more chances to excel. Student to teacher ratio is another big one since it indicates personalized attention for students.
   
   
2. Check Out Extracurriculars
   Each school has its own approach to subjects outside the core curriculum, such as art and music. In some areas around the United States, these are being cut – but they can help children grow into well-rounded adults. You can often learn about a school's extracurricular programs by visiting a school's website, as those who offer them tend to emphasize it prominently.
   
   
3. Attend a PTA Meeting
   Although PTA meetings are generally open only to teachers, parents, and administrators, they are usually organized by the parents themselves. Exceptions can certainly be made for someone who wants to join the community, so don't be afraid to reach out. Not only will you get a sense for the issues a school is facing, but also how well parents and teachers collaborate to solve problems.
   
   
4. Speak to Administrators
   School administrators tend to be cautious of anything that sounds like a promise to a particular parent or student. Still, they are often willing to discuss the school in general terms and how it could meet the needs of a particular learner. When the school staff is open, honest, and willing to engage with your questions, it is a good sign of how they will operate in the future.
   
   
5. Plan for Tomorrow
   Depending on your child's age, it is usually a good idea to look ahead to the next "level" of schools. This is especially crucial as middle school students prepare to enter high school. What are the graduation rates? What percentage of students go on to enter college? Are there special college preparatory or accountability programs that can help students overcome challenges?

Choosing the right school takes some effort, but it is well worth it. After all, each student spends a tremendous amount of time within a school's four walls. Children are shaped by whether that environment is a fulfilling one where they can plant the seeds for a successful adulthood!

When it comes to moving to Harrisonburg , many factors come together. In addition to schools, you need to find the right neighborhood and home for you. It could be a daunting task, but Old Dominion Realty makes it much easier.

Our REALTORS® are Harrisonburg real estate experts who deliver sound advice and one-on-one care to each client. We'll be glad to introduce you to a selection of the best Harrisonburg homes – and help you close on your dream home.  Contact us to learn more about relocating to Harrisonburg.

Making Your Move to Harrisonburg Easier

Located two miles south of Washington D.C. right between the beautiful Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains, Harrisonburg attracts new residents every year. It's a great place to move: Up-and-coming professionals, growing families, and retirees all find their way here.

As one of the three top Virginia cities in the area, Harrisonburg is noticeably less expensive than its neighbors Richmond and Alexandria--while still offering truly amazing homes.

Of course, you'll want to start enjoying everything Harrisonburg has to offer as soon as you can. That means taking care of the preliminaries so you'll be comfortable in your new home.

Here's how to navigate some of the most common issues when moving to Harrisonburg:

Driver's License and Registration

You'll find the local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) right on Rt. 11 at 3281 Peoples Drive, Harrisonburg, VA. To get your Virginia driver's license or ID, be sure you can bring multiple forms of identification (such as a passport or valid out-of-state ID.) You'll also need some mail and bills that include your local address, such as utility bills.

Vehicles must be inspected each year to be compliant with state rules. Any local auto servicing center approved to perform auto inspections can get this done for you. An inspection is necessary to accelerate the process of getting your local license plate and registration.

Electricity, Gas, and Fuel Oil

For electricity, you'll need an account with Harrisonburg Electric Company.

Residents moving from out of state may be surprised to see how common natural gas and fuel oil are in Virginia. It's good to be familiar with natural gas services at Columbia Gas of Virginia and propane gas services at AmeriGas. Some popular fuel oil providers include Columbia Gas of Virginia, Rockingham Petroleum Cooperative, and Quarles Energy Service.

Water and Sewer

If your home has existing water and sewer service, all you need to do is drop by the billing office and pay a deposit to switch the service to your name. When you make your deposit on the morning of a business day, you'll usually have service by the end of the day.

Trash Pickup

Trash pickup begins immediately for all Harrisonburg residents living on public streets. The city uses an "all-in-one" approach for its waste and recycling collection. Trash pickup schedule depends on your home's location. It's a good idea to review the local trash collection fees.

Public Transit

The local area provides a wide range of public transit options. In particular, Harrisonburg Department of Public Transportation is known for its clean and efficient buses. Bus schedule and route information can help you plan your trip. Also, take a look at Harrisonburg bus fares.

Pets

Dogs, cats, and other pets are welcome in Harrisonburg. All animals, regardless of species, must be on a leash while in public. Pet owners are responsible for cleaning up after pets while on walks. Animal bites should be reported to Animal Control at (540) 437-2670.

Virginia law requires current rabies vaccinations for dogs and cats aged 16 weeks and up. You can have this performed and get a certificate verifying vaccination status at any licensed veterinary office. Dog licenses are also required for any dog aged 16 and up – a dog license tag should be affixed to the pet's collar any time he or she is not on the owner's property.  Dog licenses are available from locations throughout the city.

We'll Help You Make Harrisonburg Your Home

Want help finding the best Harrisonburg homes? Our REALTORS® are the local experts. Contact Old Dominion Realty to get started.

If you're considering a relocation, December is a great time to discover the beautiful homes in Harrisonburg. The year-end real estate market is a little slower, so you won't have to deal with house hunting crowds. The holiday season is the perfect time to get to know this wonderful city. Winter Wonderfest is a great place to start. You'll get a preview of local lifestyles and traditions with a holiday twist.

Our REALTORS® recommend Winter Wonderfest because it's a local family favorite with something for everyone. You'll enjoy a day of music, holiday treats, and fun that will put you in a holiday mood. You can combine your festivities with a leisurely trek through downtown shops to wrap up your shopping in plenty of time for Christmas.

Winter Wonderfest - Downtown Harrisonburg

This family-friendly event takes place on December 9, from 12 until 6 pm. You'll enjoy a day of fun and entertaining holiday adventures. Your Wonderfest experience begins when you visit the event host, Ten Thousand Villages at Main and Bruce Streets. Throughout the day the shop will twinkle and hum with crafts, refreshments, games, and holiday cheer. It's also the Cookie Tour check-in spot. Here is a list of additional must-do activities.

Art Market

If you appreciate handcrafted gifts, you must visit the 6th Annual Holiday Art Market at Larkin Arts. You'll find beautiful presentations of crafts by local artists and artisans. You can purchase handcrafted jewelry, paintings, woodwork, fiber arts and more. The market also gives you the unique opportunity to meet the creative personality behind the gifts you choose.

Holiday Selfies

When you visit the Agora Downtown Market from 1 to 3 pm, you can create your own holiday fun by snapping a Santa selfie. Look out for the Grinch and Santa's elves throughout the day. When you spot them, snap a selfie and share the fun on Facebook and Instagram. Use the hashtags #WinterWonderfestHburg and #DowntownHarrisonburg!

Holiday Movie "Elf"

By 4:30, you should be ready for a break. If you are, stop by the Court Square Theater for a showing of the holiday movie, "Elf." Admission is free when you present any December 9th receipt from a Downtown business.

Carolers

When you hear carols in the air, you know Christmas is on the way. The Shenandoah Valley Children's Choir will fill your heart and bring the spirit of Christmas a little bit closer as they sing carols throughout downtown.

Cookie Tour

This special event brings young and old in search of cookies. When you take the self-guided tour, you'll make stops at 12 downtown shops, claiming a gourmet cookie at each stop along the way. Visit Ten Thousand Villages between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm to check in. You'll receive a Cookie Tour wristband and a box to hold your cookies.

Get to Know Harrisonburg

Harrisonburg is a wonderful place to live, work, and play all year long. Contact Old Dominion Realty, if you need information about buying or selling a Harrisonburg home, or if you want to know more about local businesses and events.

Shop Small With Us in Downtown Harrisonburg

Ready to hit the shops for the holidays? Like many families with homes in Harrisonburg, VA, you'll probably make plenty of purchases this holiday season. Why not make sure your gifts make an impact on your hometown too? There's no better time than this weekend. Saturday, November 25 is Small Business Saturday, and our REALTORS® want to help you participate. Instead of spending your holiday worrying about Black Friday deals, wait a day and shop at locally owned businesses instead.

When you spend money at a local business, you reap the rewards of your neighbors' talents, and you also make an investment in your community that will come back to you later. Celebrate Small Business Saturday by getting your gifts here in Harrisonburg. Here are a few of our favorite places to find holiday treasures: 

• OASIS Fine Art & Craft, 103 S. Main Street
  Right in the heart of our arts district, this artist co-op is teeming with one-of-a-kind, handmade pieces that will delight your loved ones. OASIS is a store, art gallery, and event space all in one, and it almost exclusively features artists from the Shenandoah Valley, so you know your dollars will stay local. In fact, all staff members are artists or volunteers, so you can ask plenty of questions about the art. Some of our favorite purchases at OASIS have been wearable and functional art, like pottery and jewelry made by local hands.
  
  
• withSimplicity, 44 S. Main Street
  This family-owned beauty boutique is one of Harrisonburg's most pleasant surprises. Handmade with organic, natural ingredients, withSimplicity products prove you don't have to order online or pay designer prices to get high-quality natural cosmetics. Your feminine friends and family members will love the way this makeup looks, feels, and smells, especially if they try to avoid artificial dyes and fragrances (or they care about shopping locally). All withSimplicity products, including powders, toners, pencils, lipsticks, and more, are infused with oils and extracts that are therapeutic-grade and non-toxic.
  
  
• Downtown Wine & Gourmet, 41 Court Square
  Do you have any wine drinkers, or craft beer aficionados in your family? Downtown Wine & Gourmet is one of our favorite places to shop in Harrisonburg, thanks to its helpful staff and huge selection. Get help from seasoned pros as you choose from hundreds of different wines and beers, including unique and rare varieties from all across the globe. This shop also has all the homebrew basics, so you can stock up on hops, yeasts, malts, and all the equipment you need to brew something delicious on your own. If you have a loved one who's getting into drinking or making craft beer, this is the place to go this Saturday.

Where will you celebrate Small Business Saturday? Download our city's free shopping guide, Downtown Harrisonburg for the Holidays, to learn about more local treasures that will be open for business on Small Business Saturday. Then contact Old Dominion Realty today to learn more about our real estate services in Harrisonburg. We look forward to adding your family to our supportive community of neighbors and friends.

Find Your Home Near James Madison University

James Madison University (JMU), located in "The Friendly City" of Harrisonburg, is a nationally recognized university in Virginia and a plays a positive role in the cultural and economic livelihood of Harrisonburg and its surrounding communities.  JMU's seven colleges offer its students 124 bachelors, masters, and doctorate degree programs. The school's athletics program features tennis, swimming, golf not to mention a NCAA Division I Championship football program.

JMU's beautiful campus and surrounding neighborhoods add the finishing touches that create an exciting university lifestyle.  

Faculty and staff members--many of whom relocate to Harrisonburg from other parts of the country--search to find Harrisonburg homes close to JMU to enjoy easy access to the university and the numerous businesses and attractions surrounding it.  Our REALTORS® have put together a list of the nine best neighborhoods near James Madison University to buy a home .

1. Ashby Heights
   This quiet tree-lined neighborhood offers an assortment of attractive homes styles. Residential properties in Ashby Heights are beautifully landscaped, often with a backdrop of luxurious trees and greenery. Current home listings in the area range in from $269,000 to $549,000.
   
   
2. Forest Hills
   The Forest Hills neighborhood features grand homes on beautifully landscaped lots. The neighborhood is an easily walkable distance to the JMU campus, Carrier Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, and other in-town features. Current home listings begin at $450,000.
   
   
3. Old Town
   Old Town is located within the city's historic district. The neighborhood features broad streets and grand 19th and 20th-century homes. Its walkability to downtown and James Madison University make it an attractive location for university families. Current home listings range from $329,000 to $579,000.
   
   
4. Pleasant Hill Acres
   This community is located at the center of the city. It offers nearby shopping and dining options and is close to JMU. Despite its central location, through traffic is prohibited in Pleasant Hill Acres. That makes it a quiet residential choice. Current home listings begin at $248,000.
   
   
5. Preston Heights
   The Preston Heights neighborhood is located just beyond the JMU campus. It features large homes constructed on spacious lots. Current home sale prices in the neighborhood begin at $449,000.
   
   
6. Stone Spring Village
   This quiet community is situated just south of the JMU campus. Homebuyers who choose Stone Spring Village can choose from a variety of existing homes and new home developments. Current listings begin at $274,000.
   
   
7. Sunset Heights
   This community is located southwest of the James Madison University campus and features a variety of home designs. Sunset Heights is within walking distance of the JMU campus. Residents enjoy easy access to local businesses and social venues. Current home listings start at approximately $150,000.
   
   
8. Purcell Park
   Purcell Park offers many of the same features of surrounding communities. It has tree-lined streets, walkability to nearby destinations and a quiet environment, but it offers more economical residential options. The homes are smaller and more affordable than those in grander JMU-adjacent neighborhoods. Current listings range from $155,000 to $209,000.
   
   
9. Airhart
   Like most JMU-adjacent neighborhoods, Airhart residents enjoy comfortable, well-maintained homes and tree-lined streets. The area is walkable to local venues and convenient to public transportation options. Current home prices start at $219,000.

Your Harrisonburg Real Estate Professionals

It can be difficult to choose a home or neighborhood that's compatible with your lifestyle, but our professionals can help. Contact Old Dominion Realty to find a home in Harrisonburg home near James Madison University.

Family Fun at Shenandoah National Park

Both historical and glorious, Shenandoah National Park explodes with wildflower colors during the summer months. Get your camera ready because white-tailed deer are everywhere and you might even catch a glimpse of a black bear or wild turkey. Can you imagine relocating to Harrisonburg, Staunton or Waynesboro and having this wildlife wonderland right in your own backyard? Our REALTORS® at Old Dominion Realty can work with you to find a home in the gorgeous Shenandoah Valley.

• Skyline Drive
  Experience mountain scenery that is beyond description as you drive the 105-mile Skyline Drive in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The drive has many pull-off spots along the way. The route travels through Virginia wine and hill country and features hiking trails if you want to stretch your legs. One of the best trails is a 3.6-mile hike to Lewis Spring Falls. It's about 52 miles into the drive.
  
  
• Ranger Programs
  Take a guided tour of the park with a ranger. The ranger programs run throughout the spring, summer, and fall. The ranger explains historical facts about the valley, as well as pointing out the plants and animals that live there. While you're exploring this wild wonderland, you will also be learning about the history and culture of the area.
  
  
• Bird watching
  Even if you're not a bird watcher, the 190 species of birds in the park are sure to spark your interest. Bring your binoculars to see the rainbow of colors from Carolina chickadees, blue-winged teal, great blue heron and 18 different types of warblers. You can see rare birds in Big Meadows that you can't find anywhere else. Look skyward for Northern goshawks, red-tailed hawks, and sharp-shinned hawks circling overhead.
  
  
• EarthCaching – If you're ready to learn about the geology and history of the park, try EarthCaching. This educational exploration activity involves finding virtual caches, using your GPS in the North, South, and Central parts of the park. When you find these treasures, they provide scientific and historical insights into the spot where you find it. It's free to participate in EarthCache activities.
  
  
• Dining – You can really work up an appetite when you're exploring the park and there are several eateries where you can appease your rumbling belly. Try the Mountain Taproom, Big Meadows Lodge, or the Pollock Dining Room for delicious food and a gorgeous view.

History and Adventure in the Shenandoah Valley

• Harrisonburg – Once known as Rocktown and nicknamed, 'The Friendly City', Harrisburg sits in the Shenandoah Valley. In 2016, the city won the title, '#3 Happiest Mountain Town' by the Blue Ridge Country Magazine. Check out Harrisonburg homes, if you're planning a move to Shenandoah Valley.
• Staunton – If you enjoy culture, as well as adventure, looking at Staunton homes might be ideal for you. Not only is Staunton in the valley, it also has the American Shakespeare Center, which is a replica of Blackfriars Theatre in London that dates back to the Renaissance.
• Waynesboro – This Shenandoah Valley city features 11 historic sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, such as the Fishburn Military School, founded in 1879. It is one of the oldest, all boy military schools in America. If you're a history buff, check out Waynesboro homes for current listings.

Contact Old Dominion Realty when you're interested in buying a home in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. Our team of real estate professionals offers a full range of services for buyers and sellers, priding ourselves on connecting you with the perfect home in Virginia and West Virginia.

Downtown Harrisonburg is Gearing Up for a Mighty Good Time

Harrisonburg residents and the Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance are gearing up for what's expected to be another sell out event at this year's Rocktown Beer & Music Festival on Saturday, April 29, 2017 from 3:00 to 8:30 pm. 

Downtown Harrisonburg is home to an assortment of popular events throughout the year that shine a spotlight on our city.  The Rocktown Beer & Music Festival is one of our most popular events.  When you live in one of the downtown homes in Harrisonburg, good living, good fun and a tremendous community are right outside of your front door.

Here's what you can expect to find at the 2017 Rocktown Beer & Music Festival:

Local Food, Musicians & More

Spring flowers provide a beautiful backdrop for a festival that features food from the best local restaurants, music featuring local bands and musicians, and beers from breweries all over the nation. Harrisonburg locals look forward to this festival all winter, gathering at the Harrisonburg Farmers Market's Turner Pavilion and Park to welcome the arrival of spring and celebrate the best beer, food and music in the Shenandoah Valley. At this year's festival, you'll find:

• Beers from local breweries like Pale Fire Brewing Co. and Brothers Craft Brewing (both sponsors of the event), as well as a wide variety of craft beers on draught. National craft breweries will also be well-represented.
• Along with dozens of beers, there will also be offerings of some of Harrisonburg's best burgers, fare from local pubs, and many other delectable choices.
• Local musical acts running the gamut from blues to soul, big band sounds to rock, and many other genres of toe-tapping tunes. You're sure to find the perfect musical accompaniment for your tasty craft beer and mouthwatering burger.

This year's pavilion space is larger than in past years, too, so you can enjoy kicking up your heels between trying new and interesting brews. Rain or shine, it's a festival that's fun, full of energy and an excellent opportunity for tasting unique beers, trying fantastic foods and listening to new music.

Getting Ready to Rock

The Rocktown Beer and Music Festival is taking place on Saturday, April 29th, beginning at 3:00 p.m. and running until 9:00 p.m. that evening. Tickets range from $22 (for designated drivers and underage attendees) to $75 (for full VIP access and a special VIP section).

• A full-access Rocktown ticket runs just $34 and includes more than 70 available craft beers to sample, a souvenir mug for sampling, and entrance to the entire event including music and food.
• The underage ticket allows kids and young adults to enjoy the festival's music and food offerings; kids under ten can even attend for free.
• The VIP ticket allows you to enter through a dedicated VIP entrance, dedicated craft beer lines with 12 ounce pours in a Rocktown Cup, an area to relax and watch the bands, special VIP tents for sitting and relaxing during the festival, and food and drinks during the festival.

Regardless of the ticket you choose, you're guaranteed a full evening of fun and frivolity, food and music, and an excellent community event.

Come for the Festival, Stay for the Community

If you're considering relocating to Harrisonburg, it's important to work with a local real estate agent who knows the Shenandoah Valley and whose primarily focus is the needs of their customers.  Our team of REALTORS® from Old Dominion Realty are local to Harrisonburg and are ready to help you find a home in Harrisonburg.  Contact Old Dominion Realty to get started.

Harrisonburg: Past, Present and Future 

Harrisonburg, VA is a beautiful and laid-back community with deep historical roots. Although it didn't officially become an independent city until 1916, it's a very old settlement that was founded in 1779. The area played an important role in the Civil War, and now boasts an amazing variety of historical monuments and quaint businesses like the Stonewall Jackson Inn. Converted from a mid-1880s mansion, the Inn is a spectacular destination for resting, relaxing, and exploring the surrounding area of Harrisonburg.

Stepping Back into the Past

The Stonewall Jackson Inn is a unique destination in the Shenandoah Valley. Although its architecture is in the Queen Anne style, its design is more like that of a traditional New England cottage. The original mansion was renovated by two Boston architects using stone and shingles to give it new life and a distinctive look and feel that can't be found elsewhere in the area. The grounds around the Inn encompass two full acres of beautiful landscaping, including gorgeous rosebushes and flowerbeds – there's even a picturesque barn originally intended to house horses and carriages.

While it's unclear who built this majestic home, it's widely believed that a sea captain from the area married a young debutante from the valley and built it for her. The entryways and stairwells bear witness to the idea that the mansion was built for entertaining and grand parties – they're wide enough to allow ladies of the past to pass through with their hoop skirts. There are also nautical touches throughout, such as speaking tubes for room-to-room communication and a beam structure common to ships built during that time.

While there are other inns available in and around Harrisonburg, the Stonewall Jackson Inn provides an experience like none other.

More than Just an Inn

Harrisonburg may have one of the most unique and appealing bed and breakfast inns in the Shenandoah Valley, but there's much more than just an inn to draw your interest. It's in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, less than an hour from Charlottesville, where the University of Virginia is located; just a few hours from the nation's capital, Washington, DC; and near historic Roanoke and Richmond as well. The spectacular Blue Ridge Mountains are along Harrisonburg's eastern boundary, while the Allegheny Mountains are to the west – as you might imagine, the views can be truly breathtaking.

Harrisonburg also offers cultural fare along with its rich history and amazing views. The downtown area is a popular place for festivals, and you'll also find live music and art exhibitions. You can take walking tours, visit Civil War battlefields, and find a treasure trove of history and culture in the nearby museums.

The community also boasts several farmers' markets, businesses that are locally-owned and –operated, culinary delights from excellent restaurants, and food trucks if you're not in the mood to sit indoors while you eat. Walking and biking trails allow you to take advantage of mild temperatures and beautiful landscapes, and the wide streets provide safer biking and walking even when you're just going down the block.

Making Harrisonburg, VA Your Home

Finding the right home in the right community is an important part of being happy in life. At Old Dominion Realty, we know that looking for homes in Harrisonburg – or in another Virginia or West Virginia community – is a big step. Our knowledgeable REALTORS®  are ready to offer professional, friendly service you can rely on. Contact us for more information about buying a home in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley.

Kline's Dairy Bar Delighting Harrisonburg Residents Since 1943 

The process repeats every morning. While most of us are still snoozing, the crew at Kline's Dairy Bar is already hard at work producing fresh ice cream for the day's sales. By the time the afternoon sun is beating down, Harrisonburg residents begin filtering in to enjoy one of the city's tastiest traditions. Kline's Dairy Bar has been delighting Harrisonburg residents for more than 70 years with fresh, flavorful ice cream and a commitment to quality that has never waivered since the business first opened its doors all those years ago.

A Beloved Family Tradition in Harrisonburg

One of the unique things about Kline's Dairy Bar is that it has actually had two different owners without ever experiencing a dip in quality. The Kline family founded the business in 1943 before it was eventually purchased by the Arehart family in 1979. Mike Arehart learned the ropes from Bess Kline and has continued the tradition of excellent ice cream ever since.

• Fabulous Flavors – Cake Batter, Blueberry Cheesecake Swirl, Mocha Coffee Bean, Lemon Gingersnap... no matter what tickles your taste buds, Kline's Dairy Bar has a flavor for you. The ice cream is made fresh every morning, and the available flavors rotate throughout the year. You'll also find familiar favorites like mint chocolate chip, strawberry and chocolate chip cookie dough.
• Four Locations – Harrisonburg homes are closest to the original Kline's Dairy Bar, but the business has also expanded into other nearby communities. In addition to two shops in Harrisonburg, Kline's now has locations in both Staunton and Waynesboro. The Staunton location includes Hog Wild BBQ so you can enjoy dinner and dessert in one place.
• Daily Specials – The ice cream at Kline's Dairy Bar is made fresh every morning and each location has its own schedule of daily specials. With two Kline's locations within the borders of Harrisonburg, city residents get double the chances that their favorite special will be on the menu each day.
• Ice Cream Experts – Kline's Dairy Bar has been producing handmade ice cream with the same technique since it opened its doors in 1943. Kline's relies on a technique called continuous freeze production, which creates less ice cream per batch than more modern techniques, but at a much higher quality. It is quite the labor-intensive process, but the results speak for themselves.

Kline's Dairy Bar and Old Dominion Realty at the Augusta Home and Garden Show

Feeling hungry yet? You're in luck! The 2017 Augusta Home and Garden Show kicks off on March 25, and as always our team at Old Dominion Realty is excited to be a part of it. Since there's no better way to introduce people to life in Harrisonburg and Staunton than with one of the city's most tasty treats, we'll be giving out free ice cream from Kline's Dairy Bar throughout the show.

Stop by our booth to learn more about local neighborhoods, check out our latest listings and enjoy a delicious snack from our friends at Kline's Dairy Bar. The show is a two-day event.  There will be other great booths, exhibits and events to check out while you're here. If you've been searching for inspiration for your spring projects, this is the place to find it.

Our REALTORS® enjoy Kline's ice cream almost as much as they enjoy helping you find the perfect home. Contact Old Dominion Realty to buy and sell homes in Staunton and Harrisonburg, VA.

Forbes Center in Harrisonburg - A Local Shining Star

James Madison University has been deeply involved in the Harrisonburg community since the school first opened its doors way back in 1908, and that special relationship continues to the present day. In addition to providing an excellent education, JMU is well known for its performing arts programs. The Forbes Center for the Performing Arts is a shining example of that commitment to the arts, with a packed schedule that includes student performances, visiting artists, theater, dance, and music. 

The Forbes Center has a show to suit every taste, so it's no surprise that it's at the center of the local arts and culture scene. Just one more reason that Harrisonburg is so beloved by local residents.

Experience Live Arts and Culture at the Forbes Center for the Performing Arts

Opened in 2010, the Forbes Center actually includes a total of five performance venues, spread out over 175,000 square feet of modern construction. Each venue has its own feel, and purpose. Performance spaces include a recital hall, performance studio, main stage, and a dedicated dance venue.

• The venues of the Forbes Center are housed within two buildings, the Shirley Hanson Roberts Center for Music Performance, and the Dorothy Thomasson Estes Center for Theatre and Dance.
• Both buildings are located right next to the main quad on campus – a traditional gathering place for students, faculty, and visitors since the earliest days of JMU. The central location of the Forbes Center also makes parking a breeze.
• Pick any month on the calendar, and you're sure to find a stacked schedule of performances at the Forbes Center. If you plan on taking in a lot of shows, you can also opt for a Masterpiece Season Ticket.
• After the show, be sure to stick around for the question and answer session. Visiting composers, artists, and performers often stick around following a performance, interacting with the audience in an intimate setting that you won't find anywhere else.
• In addition to great shows, the Forbes Center is also home to some fantastic art exhibits. The Duke Hall Gallery of Fine Art features rotating art exhibits, showcasing artists from around the world.
• The Forbes Center wouldn't have been possible without the support of the community, and the generosity of passionate JMU alumni. As a way of saying thanks, the Forbes Center presents the Circle of Excellence in the Arts Awards each year, to recognize local businesses and individuals that support the arts.
• The performing arts have always been a priority for students at James Madison University, so the Forbes Center is also an important educational tool. Students get the chance to practice, learn, and perform in world-class facilities, whether on stage or behind the scenes.

The Forbes Center at James Madison University has quickly become an important pillar in the community, and it's just the start of what Harrisonburg has to offer. Contact our team of local REALTORS® in Harrisonburg at Old Dominion Realty to shop for homes in Harrisonburg, VA, and get ready to enjoy the finest performing arts facility in the Shenandoah Valley.

Old Dominion Realty Joins 104-3 KCY COUNTRY to Support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Old Dominion Realty will be joining Harrisonburg's country music fans as they unite this weekend for the Country Cares for St. Jude Kids Radiothon on February 25 – 26.

104-3 KCY COUNTRY hosts this annual two-day event to support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.  The radiothon raises money for the research and treatment of pediatric cancer and other deadly childhood diseases.  104-3 KCY COUNTRY listeners will have the opportunity to support St. Jude Children's Research Hospitals by calling 1-800-795-1800, or visiting kcycountry.com/stjude to become Partners in Hope by donating just $20 a month.

Old Dominion Realty believes in freely giving back to the local communities in which they do business.  Old Dominion Realty has signed on as a "Giggle Sponsor" for the 2016 event helping to support the weekend's activities. 

The bulk of St. Jude's funding comes from individual contributors allowing doctors and staff members to do what they do best--Save the lives of children regardless of their financial situation.    Country Cares for St. Jude Kids allows St. Jude to share stories of their research and discoveries with the worldwide medical community.

Radiothons have been a part of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital fundraising activities for 25 years. Through the efforts of over 300 radio stations across the U.S., over $600 million has been raise for St. Jude's lifesaving work to "treat the toughest cases, advance cures and reach the world."

About St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital leads the way in how the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other deadly diseases.   With the world's best survival rates for the most aggressive childhood cancers, St. Jude's has invented treatments and helped push the overall childhood cancer survival rate from 20 percent to 80 percent since its opening over  50 years ago.  St. Jude's  is working to drive the overall survival rate for childhood cancer to 90 percent.  Their goal is to never stop until no child dies from cancer.

St. Jude freely shares its medical breakthroughs, and every child saved at St. Jude means doctors and scientists worldwide can use that knowledge to save thousands more children.  Families never receive a bill for treatment, travel, housing and food.  They believe a family should worry about is helping their child live.  Join the St. Jude mission by visiting stjude.org or following St. Jude on facebook.com/stjude and twitter.com/stjude.

About Old Dominion Realty

Old Dominion Realty Inc. is a full service established regional real estate firm offering residential real estate services, property management, residential and commercial appraisal services, consulting, relocation services, commercial sales and leasing services. Affiliated services include auction services, mortgage services and settlement/title services.

Old Dominion Realty is committed to serving and supporting clients and communities with integrity and quality services that are unmatched in the industry.

Have You Made Plans for Valentine's Day Yet? 

Whether you're celebrating with your love or going solo, discover these seven sensational restaurants in Harrisonburg to make this February 14 your most memorable yet.

1. Local Chop & Grill House - Share a meal with the one you love in Downtown Harrisonburg at the Local Chop & Grill House.  Located in the historically renovated City Produce Exchange Building, you'll enjoy local Harrisonburg flavor with high-quality steaks or chops, organically raised poultry, organically grown seasonal produce and fresh baked goods.  Local Chop & Grill House is dedicated to supporting local businesses and bringing you the best of the Shenandoah Valley.
2. Clementine - Clementine is located in the historic district of Downtown Harrisonburg in the former Strand Theater.  Locally owned and operated, Clementine offers Harrisonburg's residents quality food and drinks, live music, art, films and community events in a comfortable, sophisticated atmosphere.
3. Bella Luna Wood Fired Pizza - Bella Luna Wood Fired Pizza is located in Downtown Harrisonburg's historic Livery Building.  Start your evening with an artisan crafted cocktail or local microbrews from our bar.  Share a Bella Luna specialty—a wood-fired pizzas or hand-made pastas--and finish your meal with a delectable dessert.  
4. Billy Jack's Wing & Draft Shack  - If you want something more casual in nature, make plans to visit Billy Jack's.  Serving up delights like fresh wings and Sticky Nugg's (breaded chicken nuggets with our sticky sauce) since 2011.  Try everyone's favorite 10 Napkin Burger with over 20 toppings to choose from or their newly opened oyster bar featuring fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters
5. Texas Roadhouse - Bring your sweetheart to the Texas Roadhouse where the only thing more legendary than their food is fun.  Work up an old fashioned appetite with their line dancers.  Dine on hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, scrumptious sides and fresh-baked bread. Sip on a Texas Roadhouse "Legendary Margarita."  
6. Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint – Valentine's Day is the perfect time for a visit to Jack Brown's Beer and Burger Joint.  Locally known as "a burger joint with a passion for craft beer," Jack Brown's offers over 100 craft beers and an award-winning burger menu.  Jack Brown's high trained staff will take you through the "burger experience" all of Harrisonburg loves to talk about.
7. Vito's Italian Kitchen – Since Valentine's Day is all about amore, don't miss dining at Vitos's Italian Kitchen.  From an appetizer of Bruschetta or Crispy Ravioli to finishing your meal by sharing a cannoli, Vito's Italian Kitchen features 16 beers on tap, a wide selection of fine wines, and delicious pizza, salads, pastas, and entrees.  Bring a big appetite (or ask for a doggie bag).  The portions are huge and dishes are delicious.
   
   

If you're interested in finding the perfect "love nest" in Harrisonburg to call home, contact our local real estate pros at Old Dominion Realty.  Since Harrisonburg is our home too, we have the local knowledge you need to not only find the best local restaurants, but to be the first to know about all of the latest homes for sale.

Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance Hosts Valley Fourth

Harrisonburg, VA celebrates the 4th of July in a "booming" fashion with lots of great food, great music, a parade, fireworks, and family fun.   Enjoy July 4 with family and friends at this year's Valley Fourth celebration hosted by the Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance organization.  From 8 a.m. until long after the fireworks end, you will find the city full of fun activities that celebrate its heritage and the history of the United States.

July 4 Schedule

The day begins at 8:30 a.m. with the Valley Fourth RUN.  This is the Shenandoah Valley's only chipped timing race where runners can choose not only their distance, but also the charity their proceeds will support.  You can run one mile all the way to 10K.  The race includes categories for children and adults.  To receive a race t-shirt, register by June 28.  Pre-registration pricing starts at $10 and must be completed by Thursday, July 2.

Enjoy great food throughout the day.  Various food vendors will offer their fare, but from 12 p.m. until 8:30 p.m., the Grillin' at the Pavilion BBQ cook-off will take place.  The smells wafting through the festival are sure to tantalize your taste buds and give you a taste of what Harrisonburg, VA cooking is all about.  For dinner, consider purchasing a People's Choice Sampling ticket, and sample the People's Choice team entries to vote for your favorite. Enjoy the Rocktown Bites! Food Tours if you're still hungry.

Adults can enjoy Beers N' Cheers from 4 p.m. until 9:30 p.m., with wine from Bluestone Vineyard, great food and an exclusively beer brand from Pale Fire Brewing Co. and Brothers Craft Brewing.

 
The evening ends at 9:30 p.m. with fireworks over downtown Harrisonburg, VA.  The best spot for viewing is the Farmer's Market Turner Pavilion.  Since the event draws thousands of Harrisonburg's family and friends, stake your claim to your spot early.

For the Kids

The Harrisonburg, VA Valley Fourth festival is a family-friendly celebration.  Throughout the day, several activities just for the kids will keep them entertained.  The fun starts with the kids enjoying the Valley Fourth RUN, followed by the "Dreamtime" puppet show at the Court Square Theatre. Then, take the time to enjoy the vendors and food booths before heading to the Explore More Discovery Museum with free admission from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m.

Beginning at 4 p.m. and running until the late evening, Court Square will have a number of children's activities, including face painting, patriotic pooch competition, Touch a Truck with the fire department, a watermelon seed spitting competition, bounce houses and more.  You will not run out of things to do to keep the kids occupied while waiting for the fireworks. 

At 6 p.m., head to Main Street to watch the "Get Outdoors & Get Moving" parade.  Arrive early to get your spot.  The parade route is from the Rockingham County Administrative Building to the City Municipal Building.

Live Performances on July 4

Throughout the day as you wait for the evening to conclude with fireworks, you will have the opportunity to enjoy live performances from great local and international names. At Turner Pavilion from 4:30 p.m. until 6 p.m., The Band Concord will perform.  Love Canon takes the stage at 7 p.m.

Become a Harrisonburg VA Resident with Old Dominion Realty

Harrisonburg, VA comes together not only for the Valley Fourth celebration, but throughout the year.  Contact Old Dominion Realty to find Harrisonburg homes for sale.