Country Inn & Suites By Carlson, Roanoke, VA

Jefferson Street gets painted green during this yearly St. Patrick's Day Parade. The parade features bagpipers and...

Jefferson Street gets painted green during this yearly St. Patrick's Day Parade. The parade features bagpipers and marching bands, and throughout the day a number of Celtic bands and folk dance troupes perform. The city's historic market area is also filled with a variety of food vendors serving traditional Irish food and drink.

Hours: Sat, Mar 16, 2013: 11am

This sporting event is one of the city's most popular. The Olympic-like festival is open to men and women of all...

This sporting event is one of the city's most popular. The Olympic-like festival is open to men and women of all physical levels. Contestants compete in more than 40 competitive sports. The opening ceremonies have an admission charge, and some competitions have a nominal entry fee.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Fri, Jul 20, 2012 Sat, Jul 21, 2012 Sun, Jul 22, 2012

Competitors and tasters alike gather in Roanoke to celebrate chili during the Virginia State Championship Chili...

Competitors and tasters alike gather in Roanoke to celebrate chili during the Virginia State Championship Chili Cook-off, which is a sanctioned International Chili Society event. The competition is hot and fierce and runs concurrently with the Strawberry Festival. Tastes of chili are free, but the strawberry creations cost. The event also has a variety of entertainment and family activities and attracts a crowd of about 50,000 yearly.

Hours: Sat, May 5, 2012

Each May, native food, dance, and costumes spill into the Market Square during this fundraiser. The event benefits...

Each May, native food, dance, and costumes spill into the Market Square during this fundraiser. The event benefits Center in the Square, which houses some of the city's scientific and culture displays. More than 40 ethnicities are celebrated in a variety of cultural foods, music, arts, and games.

Hours: Sat, May 19, 2012: 11am - 6pm

From bluegrass to cider, if it's part of Virginia's cultural history, you can find it at this annual festival during...

From bluegrass to cider, if it's part of Virginia's cultural history, you can find it at this annual festival during October. The streets of the city's Market Square are filled with people enjoying the autumn air, riding carriages, and learning how to construct scarecrows. Most events are free, but check listings for times and events.

Hours: October 2012

From sundaes and slushies to shortcakes and dipped strawberries, if it's red and edible, it can be found at this yearly...

From sundaes and slushies to shortcakes and dipped strawberries, if it's red and edible, it can be found at this yearly event. The Strawberry Festival runs concurrently with the Chili Cook-off. There is a charge to sample the treats, with all proceeds proceeds benefiting Community School, offering an independent educational experience to children ages 3 through 14.

Hours: Fri, May 4, 2012: 10am - 5:30pm Sat, May 5, 2012: 10am - 4pm

Known as one of the Southeast's top 20 events, this annual New Year's celebration provides a wholesome family...

Known as one of the Southeast's top 20 events, this annual New Year's celebration provides a wholesome family environment. The city plans activities, concerts, and a magical fireworks display to ring in the New Year.

Hours: Mon, Dec 31, 2012: 6pm - 6am

Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls take to the city zoo to celebrate Halloween. The annual event, which takes place from...

Ghosts, goblins, and ghouls take to the city zoo to celebrate Halloween. The annual event, which takes place from 1pm-4pm on Halloween Day, attracts costumed kids and parents alike. The event offers fun, festive activities that range from scavenger hunts and free pizza to piñata breaking and visits with the resident animals. The Zoo Boo is fun for the young and the young at heart.

Hours: Wed, Oct 31, 2012

This annual street festival, which is held the last weekend in September, honors the area's African American heritage....

This annual street festival, which is held the last weekend in September, honors the area's African American heritage. Henry Street is located near downtown, and the yearly event draws a large crowd. Activities include cultural dances, music, food, and entertainment. The Henry Street Heritage Festival is held in one of Roanoke's oldest black community neighborhoods.

Hours: Event times vary; call for details Sat, Sep 29, 2012