Activity Schedule
It’s our mission to get as many people outside as possible October 15-17. Use this schedule to plan outings with our region’s businesses, clubs, and outdoor organizations. Be sure to tag @roanokegofest when you share photos of your adventures.
Make sure to check out the ONGOING tab below for activities that will be happening the entire time.
For the most part, festival hours are Friday: 5-8pm, Saturday 10am-8pm, Sunday 10am-5pm. However, there are exceptions such as morning yoga and bike rides, Banff film festival, concerts, silent disco…etc. Your best bet…check the schedule and mark your favorites.
Go Quest Team Challenge with Starr Hill Brewery
Our popular 2020 event created as a unique way to challenge and bring friends together, when they might not be able to physically be near one another, is back again for 2021! Teams of up to six individuals will have exactly 102-hours, October 14-17, to complete 100+ missions.
Feel the GO Fest spirit as you venture from one mission to the next. You’ll keep up with competitors on the social feed and track your progress on the GO Quest leader-board, all on the app.
Find up to 5 other people (6 including you!) to form your team. These can be your quaranteam here in town, or you can team up from afar! These missions can be completed together or separately. Pick a team captain who will create the team in the registration portal, but each of you will need to register separately and “join” the appropriate team.
The missions will range in difficulty level and point value. Examples of missions include hiking/running the Roanoke 7 Summits, participating in a GO Fest scheduled activity like a bike clinic, completing your own beer mile, trash tag, or cooking a tasty treat out of something you find in nature.
More information at: https://roanokegofest.com/go-quest/
Friday Morning Yoga
GO Get Vaccinated
The Virginia Dept of Health is bringing the COVID vaccines to you. Get your jab while enjoying all GO Fest has to offer.
ASK A THRU HIKER
Whether you’ll be a north bounder, a south bounder, section or brand new to hiking, start off on the right foot by asking an Appalachian Trail thru hiker!
Try some gear, ask your questions, and get ready to hit the Trail with confidence!
Have you done your share of hiking?
Come swap some Trail Stories!
Also, stop by anytime during GO FEST
and register to win a variety of prizes!
ProTown BMX Show present by Lancerlot
The Pro Town BMX stunt show is quite the aerial spectacle featuring professional bikers many of whom have competed in X Games, Gravity Games and more! Watch as they flip, spin and perform amazing acrobatic feats all while riding a bicycle.
Lacerlot: The only place to Learn to Skate! Make The Lot your holiday skating tradition. lancerlotsportscomplex.com
Hop On, Hop Off Cycle Pub presented by Gentry Locke
Star City C
ycle Pub will be offering “hop on, hop off” rides between local establishments. If you see the cycle pub riding by, flag it down and hop on…then when you get to a brewery you want to check out just hop off. Star City Cycle Pub will be doing a continuous loop between Golden Cactus, Big Lick Brewing, Three Notch’d Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery. Ride Responsibly, Gentry Locke.com.
The pick up/drop off location in the heart of GO Fest is located on Church Avenue, next to Deschutes Brewery.
The cycle pub will be running Friday (6-9pm), Saturday (4-6pm) and Sunday (1-4pm).
Member One Lumberjack Show
The Member One Lumberjack Show–a collection of the most flannel wearin’, ax swingin’, log rollin’, and saw pullin’ lumberjacks (and Jills) out of Hayward, Wisconsin–will be joining us at GO Fest to run the gamut on rough, tough lumberjack skills.
You’ll see a full treatment of timber-crushing action – whole logs of pine sliced in seconds; axes hurled from distances of up to 20 feet; the best tools of the lumberjack trade, from modern tech to old time implements; and more feats of “lumbersexual” strength. Throw in some laughable narration by the frontman, not to mention some pretty entertaining antics from the lumberjacks themselves, and you’ve got a show that never disappoints.
The Lumberjack Show is brought to you by Member One Federal Credit Union. Member One is a proudly local, full-service financial institution serving southwest and central Virginia. Their passion is to provide individuals and businesses in our community with financial tools they can count on, from everyday essentials to major money milestones.
Kayak Types Class
Learn about the different types of kayaks and the intended purposes of each.
Boat Demo (All Ages)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Parkway Beer Relay presented by Fleet Feet
– Participants must have proof of age and obtain an ID band from the ID tent prior to the event
– 2 to 4 members per relay team (Minimum of 2 per team)
– Beer must be consumed before starting each lap
– Empty cups must be deposited in the trash. NO LITTERING!
– Participants must alternate on each lap
– On laps 2,3, and 4 participants must be tagged by preceding teammate before beginning their lap
– Unnecessary contact with other participants could result in disqualification (beer mile is not a contact sport)
– Mandatory pandemic safe high fives to each other after completing the race
– Most importantly have fun, laugh, and enjoy making memories with your friends
Banff Mountain Film Festival presented by Mast General Store
The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour has been providing outdoorsy folk from around the world with mountain culture for over 40 years. The films shown as part of the traveling world tour are inspiring, adventurous, and thought-provoking, created for like-minded audiences in cities, mountain towns (like Roanoke), and villages in over 40 countries.
Gates open at 6:30pm and films will begin at 7pmish. There will be food, beer and vendors in Elmwood throughout the weekend, this includes during the films.
This year BANFF will be a part of the annual Anthem Go Outside Festival thanks to Mast General Store, kicking off the entertainment in Elmwood Park on the Haley Toyota Stage. GO Fest will be asking for donations at the door for the Friday showing, but no ticket price is required.
All proceeds from both events will go to benefit Project Outside, a community fund created to 
support outdoor capital improvement projects, maintain key outdoor assets, and help launch and support businesses in the outdoor sector.
Last year GO Fest, through sponsors and concert ticket sales, was able to award fourteen Project Outside grants totaling $100,000 that supported trail development, greenway maintenance, ProjectPark to improve the Villa Heights Rec Center, provided much-need equipment to trail organizations, support local outdoor businesses impacted by COVID, frisbee golf courses, and support a start-up businesses catering to mountain bike tourism.
To learn more about Project Outside go to- https://www.roanokeoutside.com/project-outside/
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
ENO Silent Disco presented by Freedom First
The Eno Silent Disco, presented by Freedom First, is back this year!
DJs spinning tunes to wireless headphones – it’s something you just have to experience to fully understand. So, come grab a pair of headphones, and check out the best dance party around.
We’ll be rocking tunes in Century Plaza Friday and Saturday nights with two sessions each night (7pm-8:30pm and 9:30pm-11pm).
Headphones are given out first-come-first-serve. Please be mindful of those waiting to get their groove on and share the love (aka headphones).
Free thanks to Freedom First Credit Union’s support.
Three Notch’d Brewing LocalZone Stage
Local favorites play hits and originals for a fun-filled, dancin’ in the streets kinda party. The Three Notch’d LocalZone Stage will be set up near the market square on Wall St. SE outside of Three Notch’d Brewery Roanoke. Buy your beer inside any of our nine participating venues in downtown Roanoke, and you can take your alcoholic beverage in a specially marked cup out into the streets to enjoy live music, vendors, stunt shows, shopping and more.
- Friday, October 15
- 6-8 pm – The Jared Stout Band
- Saturday, October 16
- 12-2 pm – Dropping Julia
- 3-5pm – GOTE
- Sunday, October 17
- 12-2pm – Charissa Joy
ENO Silent Disco presented by Freedom First
The Eno Silent Disco, presented by Freedom First, is back this year!
DJs spinning tunes to wireless headphones – it’s something you just have to experience to fully understand. So, come grab a pair of headphones, and check out the best dance party around.
We’ll be rocking tunes in Century Plaza Friday and Saturday nights with two sessions each night (7pm-8:30pm and 9:30pm-11pm).
Headphones are given out first-come-first-serve. Please be mindful of those waiting to get their groove on and share the love (aka headphones).
Free thanks to Freedom First Credit Union’s support.
Go Quest Team Challenge with Starr Hill Brewery
Our popular 2020 event created as a unique way to challenge and bring friends together, when they might not be able to physically be near one another, is back again for 2021! Teams of up to six individuals will have exactly 102-hours, October 14-17, to complete 100+ missions.
Feel the GO Fest spirit as you venture from one mission to the next. You’ll keep up with competitors on the social feed and track your progress on the GO Quest leader-board, all on the app.
Find up to 5 other people (6 including you!) to form your team. These can be your quaranteam here in town, or you can team up from afar! These missions can be completed together or separately. Pick a team captain who will create the team in the registration portal, but each of you will need to register separately and “join” the appropriate team.
The missions will range in difficulty level and point value. Examples of missions include hiking/running the Roanoke 7 Summits, participating in a GO Fest scheduled activity like a bike clinic, completing your own beer mile, trash tag, or cooking a tasty treat out of something you find in nature.
More information at: https://roanokegofest.com/go-quest/
Tour de Dirt
The 15th annual Tour De Dirt takes place October 16 on the back roads of Floyd County.
A spectacular bike ride exploring lesser-known roads in Floyd County. This is a ride and not a race, meant for fun and fellowship and appealing to riders of most any age. All proceeds from the entry fee go to support Floyd’s own Plenty! Farm & Fresh Food Pantry.
There are 15, 37, 57, and 76 mile options.
Downtown Obstacle Challenge
This will be a fun challenge designed for everyone. The event takes place in Elmwood Park and will include running or walking plus various obstacles and challenges to complete. This challenge is for athletes ages 18 & up. To register, visit our website – FergusonFitness.com
Junior Ranger Program
Ride With Jeff Lenosky, The Trail Boss
Grab your mountain bike and spend a few hours riding (and learning) from the legendary Jeff Lenosky during a fun interactive group ride experience.
Jeff will lead two rides on Saturday and two on Sunday.
Saturday Rides:
- 9am at Carvins Cove (meet at Bennett Springs Parking Lot) – Register
- 2pm ride Mill Mountain (meet in front of the Elmwood Stage at GO Fest) – Register
Sunday Rides:
Hustle/Haven Match Express
Imagine feeling energized, endorphins coursing through your veins, only to bliss out with a gentle stretch that sends you into deep relaxation, all in 45 minutes! We aren’t joking when we claim this is a match made only in (Hustle) Haven. Class starts on the bike and ends on the mat – come get your yin and yang on with us.
Beginner Yoga
Beginning Yoga: Saturday @ 9:00 am (Century Plaza)
Join us for a gentle beginner’s class, suitable for yoga newbies or anyone who wants to start their day with a leisurely paced and gentle class. 45 minutes (with Harrilyn Mills and Uttara Yoga Studio).
Group Coffee Ride w/ Downshift & RMA
Downshift Bikes & Roanoke Mountain Adventures are teaming up to present this inclusive and welcoming cycling activity. This ride will focus on the simple joy of pedaling with others and sipping a hot cup of coffee in a pleasant setting. It’s an easy 9-mile loop that is open to all riders and all styles of bike.
Creature From Carvins Cove Enduro
Virginia’s Blue Ridge Creature from Carvins Cove is a two-day mountain bike experience.
Saturday is an enduro and Sunday is a XXC/XC race, both days are at Carvins Cove.
- Enduro (Saturday at 9am): Chip timed with no start order. Hangout with your buddies and transfer at your own pace. The average rider will finish in about 4 hours. Come race enduro in the USA’s second largest municipal park with over 60 miles of trails.
- XXC/XC (Sunday at 9am): 16 mile and 44 mile options.
The Bank of Fincastle Fall 5k 10k Run
The 35th Annual Bank of Fincastle Fall 5k and 10k Run will take place on Saturday, October 16th in the historic Town of Fincastle. The race begins at Central Academy Middle School and winds through the beautiful and historic town. Feel free to run or walk during the event. Registration fees for ages 18 and under are just $15 and 18 and over $30. Proceeds benefit scholarships to local high school students and charities selected by The Botetourt Rotary Club. Trophies, medals and ribbons will be awarded, plus all participants will receive a custom long-sleeve performance shirt. Registration opens online July 5th.
Kids Fitness Challenge
We have an awesome event for kids to play outside and have fun. Join our awesome kids’ instructors for a fun challenge that will have kids running, jumping, climbing and playing! Designed for kids ages 4-8.
GO Fest Ace Chase 2021
Welcome to the GO Fest 2021 Ace Chase! We are excited to bring back a GO Fest event that invites players of all skill levels to have fun, compete for great prizes, and get some great schwag! Space is limited, register here:
https://www.discgolfscene.com/tournaments/GO_Fest_Ace_Chase_2021
The event will follow a similar format as in years past. Participants will attempt to make ACES on a shortened course layout ranging from approximately 75-150 feet while all using the same disc provided in the player pack. This year participants will be receiving a custom GO Fest stamped Innova Invader, their newest driving putter/approach disc favored for tight fairway shots.
Your $20 registration includes 1 Custom GO Fest stamped Innova Invader, a classic All Hyzer’s Eve stainless water bottle, and a classic AHE disc golf towel. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes will be awarded.
We will be set up at 9:30 am for folks to pick up their player’s packs and we will be looking to begin the Ace Chase promptly at 10:00 AM.
Boat Demo (Adult Only)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
River Characteristics / Hazards Class
Learn the basic river hazards and characteristics you will experience and how to spot them.
ASK A THRU HIKER
Whether you’ll be a north bounder, a south bounder, section or brand new to hiking, start off on the right foot by asking an Appalachian Trail thru hiker!
Try some gear, ask your questions, and get ready to hit the Trail with confidence!
Have you done your share of hiking?
Come swap some Trail Stories!
Also, stop by anytime during GO FEST
and register to win a variety of prizes!
Tasty Bite Sampling
Weʻll be sharing samples of delicious Tasty Bite Madras Lentils.
Free Bike Helmets for Children and Young Adults
Brain Injury Services of Southwest Virginia is happy to pass out free bike helmets to children and young adults. Please visit us, learn about the importance of helmets, get fitted, and get a helmet!
Limited supplies.
Member One Lumberjack Show
The Member One Lumberjack Show–a collection of the most flannel wearin’, ax swingin’, log rollin’, and saw pullin’ lumberjacks (and Jills) out of Hayward, Wisconsin–will be joining us at GO Fest to run the gamut on rough, tough lumberjack skills.
You’ll see a full treatment of timber-crushing action – whole logs of pine sliced in seconds; axes hurled from distances of up to 20 feet; the best tools of the lumberjack trade, from modern tech to old time implements; and more feats of “lumbersexual” strength. Throw in some laughable narration by the frontman, not to mention some pretty entertaining antics from the lumberjacks themselves, and you’ve got a show that never disappoints.
The Lumberjack Show is brought to you by Member One Federal Credit Union. Member One is a proudly local, full-service financial institution serving southwest and central Virginia. Their passion is to provide individuals and businesses in our community with financial tools they can count on, from everyday essentials to major money milestones.
Rangers Crew Exhibition Battle
The Rangers Dance Crew, featuring elements of, the legendary Club Rockers lead by Off The Hook, Life By Movement, Virginia Tech Breakdance Club, and various independent artist from the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas. (Potential crowd participation if following Covid restriction and CDC guidelines.)
With various performances from the featured artist.
All Levels GO Flow
All Levels GO Flow: Saturday @ 11:00 am (Elmwood Park Stage)
Appropriate for beginners and experienced practitioners alike, this all-levels class will focus on alignment, breath, and mind/body balance. Let’s Go Outside and flow! 45 minutes (with Laura Leonard and Uttara Yoga Studio).
ProTown BMX Show present by Lancerlot
The Pro Town BMX stunt show is quite the aerial spectacle featuring professional bikers many of whom have competed in X Games, Gravity Games and more! Watch as they flip, spin and perform amazing acrobatic feats all while riding a bicycle.
Lacerlot: The only place to Learn to Skate! Make The Lot your holiday skating tradition. lancerlotsportscomplex.com
Roadside Maintenance and Flat Repair
Learn to fix a flat and perform basic maintenance for road and in-town bikes.
Junior Ranger Program
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
Boat Demo (All Ages)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Trailside Flat Repair and Maintenance
Learn to fix a flat for your mountain bike, and other basic maintenance skills to keep you riding!
Three Notch’d Brewing LocalZone Stage
Local favorites play hits and originals for a fun-filled, dancin’ in the streets kinda party. The Three Notch’d LocalZone Stage will be set up near the market square on Wall St. SE outside of Three Notch’d Brewery Roanoke. Buy your beer inside any of our nine participating venues in downtown Roanoke, and you can take your alcoholic beverage in a specially marked cup out into the streets to enjoy live music, vendors, stunt shows, shopping and more.
- Friday, October 15
- 6-8 pm – The Jared Stout Band
- Saturday, October 16
- 12-2 pm – Dropping Julia
- 3-5pm – GOTE
- Sunday, October 17
- 12-2pm – Charissa Joy
YMCA Group Exercise
Class will take participants through a typical YMCA Group Exercise class. This class will either be Zumba, Kid’s Fit, or HIIT (beginners high intensity interval training). Please come and join us and get moving during this class
Member One Lumberjack Show
The Member One Lumberjack Show–a collection of the most flannel wearin’, ax swingin’, log rollin’, and saw pullin’ lumberjacks (and Jills) out of Hayward, Wisconsin–will be joining us at GO Fest to run the gamut on rough, tough lumberjack skills.
You’ll see a full treatment of timber-crushing action – whole logs of pine sliced in seconds; axes hurled from distances of up to 20 feet; the best tools of the lumberjack trade, from modern tech to old time implements; and more feats of “lumbersexual” strength. Throw in some laughable narration by the frontman, not to mention some pretty entertaining antics from the lumberjacks themselves, and you’ve got a show that never disappoints.
The Lumberjack Show is brought to you by Member One Federal Credit Union. Member One is a proudly local, full-service financial institution serving southwest and central Virginia. Their passion is to provide individuals and businesses in our community with financial tools they can count on, from everyday essentials to major money milestones.
Recovery Demo
Come work on recovery, mobility and flexibility with us at GO Fest! You’ll get to try out the latest Hyperice Recovery tools and products along with instruction on stretching and recovery techniques. The Hyperice suite of products are designed to help to relieve tension, unlock sore muscles, and prime your body and mind to be at their best, so you can always find the simple fun in doing what you love to do, more.
ProTown BMX Show present by Lancerlot
The Pro Town BMX stunt show is quite the aerial spectacle featuring professional bikers many of whom have competed in X Games, Gravity Games and more! Watch as they flip, spin and perform amazing acrobatic feats all while riding a bicycle.
Lacerlot: The only place to Learn to Skate! Make The Lot your holiday skating tradition. lancerlotsportscomplex.com
All About Composting!
Come to the Clean Valley Council tent, see our new compost trailer, and learn more about composting with our partner the Harvest Collective.
Ride With Jeff Lenosky, The Trail Boss
Grab your mountain bike and spend a few hours riding (and learning) from the legendary Jeff Lenosky during a fun interactive group ride experience.
Jeff will lead two rides on Saturday and two on Sunday.
Saturday Rides:
- 9am at Carvins Cove (meet at Bennett Springs Parking Lot) – Register
- 2pm ride Mill Mountain (meet in front of the Elmwood Stage at GO Fest) – Register
Sunday Rides:
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
Paddles Class
Located at the demo pool. We will go over canoe vs kayak paddles and various strokes.
Boat Demo (All Ages)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Roadside Maintenance and Flat Repair
Learn to fix a flat and perform basic maintenance for road and in-town bikes.
Three Notch’d Brewing LocalZone Stage
Local favorites play hits and originals for a fun-filled, dancin’ in the streets kinda party. The Three Notch’d LocalZone Stage will be set up near the market square on Wall St. SE outside of Three Notch’d Brewery Roanoke. Buy your beer inside any of our nine participating venues in downtown Roanoke, and you can take your alcoholic beverage in a specially marked cup out into the streets to enjoy live music, vendors, stunt shows, shopping and more.
- Friday, October 15
- 6-8 pm – The Jared Stout Band
- Saturday, October 16
- 12-2 pm – Dropping Julia
- 3-5pm – GOTE
- Sunday, October 17
- 12-2pm – Charissa Joy
All About Composting!
Come to the Clean Valley Council tent, see our new compost trailer, and learn more about composting with our partner the Harvest Collective.
Hop On, Hop Off Cycle Pub presented by Gentry Locke
Star City Cycle Pub will be offering “hop on, hop off” rides between local establishments. If you see the cycle pub riding by, flag it down and hop on…then when you get to a brewery you want to check out just hop off. Star City Cycle Pub will be doing a continuous loop between Golden Cactus, Big Lick Brewing, Three Notch’d Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery. Ride Responsibly, Gentry Locke.com.
The pick up/drop off location in the heart of GO Fest is located on Church Avenue, next to Deschutes Brewery.
The cycle pub will be running Friday (6-9pm), Saturday (4-6pm) and Sunday (1-4pm).
Boat Demo (Adult Only)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Hustle and Sculpt
Designed to get things toned, this flow is full of high energy, loud music and sweaty feels. Unlike a traditional flow, this format will sprinkle in cardio bursts between body weight work and emphasizes deep core strengthening…all in 45 minutes! This class hits all the muscles a traditional flow doesn’t- a perfect addition to your yoga practice.
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
Paddle Gear Class
We will go over different types of paddling gear and uses of each.
Trailside Flat Repair and Maintenance
Learn to fix a flat for your mountain bike, and other basic maintenance skills to keep you riding!
ProTown BMX Show present by Lancerlot
The Pro Town BMX stunt show is quite the aerial spectacle featuring professional bikers many of whom have competed in X Games, Gravity Games and more! Watch as they flip, spin and perform amazing acrobatic feats all while riding a bicycle.
Lacerlot: The only place to Learn to Skate! Make The Lot your holiday skating tradition. lancerlotsportscomplex.com
Boat Demo (All Ages)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Member One Lumberjack Show
The Member One Lumberjack Show–a collection of the most flannel wearin’, ax swingin’, log rollin’, and saw pullin’ lumberjacks (and Jills) out of Hayward, Wisconsin–will be joining us at GO Fest to run the gamut on rough, tough lumberjack skills.
You’ll see a full treatment of timber-crushing action – whole logs of pine sliced in seconds; axes hurled from distances of up to 20 feet; the best tools of the lumberjack trade, from modern tech to old time implements; and more feats of “lumbersexual” strength. Throw in some laughable narration by the frontman, not to mention some pretty entertaining antics from the lumberjacks themselves, and you’ve got a show that never disappoints.
The Lumberjack Show is brought to you by Member One Federal Credit Union. Member One is a proudly local, full-service financial institution serving southwest and central Virginia. Their passion is to provide individuals and businesses in our community with financial tools they can count on, from everyday essentials to major money milestones.
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
Vintage Trouble in Elmwood
The annual Anthem Go Outside Festival will be rocking out Elmwood Amphitheater at this year’s downtown Roanoke event, featuring headliner Vintage Trouble on the Haley Toyota stage – Saturday, October 16.
Vintage Trouble is a Los Angeles-based band known for its electric stage presence and acrobatic frontman Ty Taylor. Go Fest continues to push the envelope, attracting bands that fall outside the norm for the region’s typically classic rock and country music genres, hoping to appeal to more diverse audiences.
Vintage Trouble, the Saturday night show in Elmwood, will bring swaggering rock, soulful blues, R&B grooves, and pop ambition into a bold and brash brew. The talented quartet has logged 3,000 shows across 30 countries on tour with divinities such as The Who, The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Lenny Kravitz, and Bon Jovi, to name a few. They’ve performed on Later… with Jools Holland, Jimmy Kimmel LIVE!, Conan, The View, and The Tonight Show in addition to receiving acclaim from New York Times, NPR, The Wall Street Journal, Billboard, and Rolling Stone.
Saturday night Vintage Trouble concert will be $25/ticket (kids 12 and under free). Tickets will be sold onsite for an additional $5 gate fee. Gates open at 6:30 pm, with the opening act Lazy Man Dub Band starting at 7 pm. The headliner begins at 8 pm. Seats are first-come, first-serve.
All proceeds go to benefit Project Outside, a community fund created to support outdoor capital improvement projects, maintain key outdoor assets, and help launch and support businesses in the outdoor sector.
Last year GO Fest, through sponsors and concert ticket sales, was able to award fourteen Project Outside grants totaling $110,000 that supported trail development, greenway maintenance, ProjectPark to improve the Villa Heights Rec Center, provided much-need equipment to trail organizations, support local outdoor businesses impacted by COVID, frisbee golf courses, and support start-up businesses catering to mountain bike tourism.
Rangers Crew Exhibition Battle
The Rangers Dance Crew, featuring elements of, the legendary Club Rockers lead by Off The Hook, Life By Movement, Virginia Tech Breakdance Club, and various independent artist from the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas. (Potential crowd participation if following Covid restriction and CDC guidelines.)
With various performances from the featured artist.
ENO Silent Disco presented by Freedom First
The Eno Silent Disco, presented by Freedom First, is back this year!
DJs spinning tunes to wireless headphones – it’s something you just have to experience to fully understand. So, come grab a pair of headphones, and check out the best dance party around.
We’ll be rocking tunes in Century Plaza Friday and Saturday nights with two sessions each night (7pm-8:30pm and 9:30pm-11pm).
Headphones are given out first-come-first-serve. Please be mindful of those waiting to get their groove on and share the love (aka headphones).
Free thanks to Freedom First Credit Union’s support.
ENO Silent Disco presented by Freedom First
The Eno Silent Disco, presented by Freedom First, is back this year!
DJs spinning tunes to wireless headphones – it’s something you just have to experience to fully understand. So, come grab a pair of headphones, and check out the best dance party around.
We’ll be rocking tunes in Century Plaza Friday and Saturday nights with two sessions each night (7pm-8:30pm and 9:30pm-11pm).
Headphones are given out first-come-first-serve. Please be mindful of those waiting to get their groove on and share the love (aka headphones).
Free thanks to Freedom First Credit Union’s support.
Go Quest Team Challenge with Starr Hill Brewery
Our popular 2020 event created as a unique way to challenge and bring friends together, when they might not be able to physically be near one another, is back again for 2021! Teams of up to six individuals will have exactly 102-hours, October 14-17, to complete 100+ missions.
Feel the GO Fest spirit as you venture from one mission to the next. You’ll keep up with competitors on the social feed and track your progress on the GO Quest leader-board, all on the app.
Find up to 5 other people (6 including you!) to form your team. These can be your quaranteam here in town, or you can team up from afar! These missions can be completed together or separately. Pick a team captain who will create the team in the registration portal, but each of you will need to register separately and “join” the appropriate team.
The missions will range in difficulty level and point value. Examples of missions include hiking/running the Roanoke 7 Summits, participating in a GO Fest scheduled activity like a bike clinic, completing your own beer mile, trash tag, or cooking a tasty treat out of something you find in nature.
More information at: https://roanokegofest.com/go-quest/
Sunrise Sound Bath
Sunrise Sound Bath: Sunday @ 7:00 am (Elmwood Park Stage)
Greet the sun and begin your day with a soothing “sound bath” on Elmwood Stage. Gongs, singing bowls, chimes, and bells will be played to help you find ease and peace. Experiences can range from a deep meditation and a calming relaxation, to relief from headaches or respite from anxiety. Mats will be provided but please bring anything else you need to help you get cozy. 45 minutes (with Betsy Whitesell and Uttara Yoga Studio)
Hustle/Haven Cycle
Hustle/Haven Cycle w/ Christine.
Our signature 45-minute, rhythm-based indoor cycling class. Low lights, loud music, dance party on the bike that is sure to make you sweat and leave feeling like you just had the time of your life on the (cycle) dance floor!
Junior Ranger Program
Ride With Jeff Lenosky, The Trail Boss
Grab your mountain bike and spend a few hours riding (and learning) from the legendary Jeff Lenosky during a fun interactive group ride experience.
Jeff will lead two rides on Saturday and two on Sunday.
Saturday Rides:
- 9am at Carvins Cove (meet at Bennett Springs Parking Lot) – Register
- 2pm ride Mill Mountain (meet in front of the Elmwood Stage at GO Fest) – Register
Sunday Rides:
Kids and Family Yoga
Kids’ and Family Yoga: Sunday @ 9:00 am (Elmwood Park Stage)
Grab the kids and join us for a family friendly practice! Focus will be on fun and accessible poses, gentle breathing practices, and cultivating a love for yoga. 45 minutes with (Precious McCullough, young assistants Elijah and Anais, and Uttara Yoga Studio)
Creature From Carvins Cove Enduro
Virginia’s Blue Ridge Creature from Carvins Cove is a two-day mountain bike experience.
Saturday is an enduro and Sunday is a XXC/XC race, both days are at Carvins Cove.
- Enduro (Saturday at 9am): Chip timed with no start order. Hangout with your buddies and transfer at your own pace. The average rider will finish in about 4 hours. Come race enduro in the USA’s second largest municipal park with over 60 miles of trails.
- XXC/XC (Sunday at 9am): 16 mile and 44 mile options.
Boat Demo (Adult Only)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Tasty Bite Sampling
Weʻll be sharing samples of delicious Tasty Bite Madras Lentils.
Free Bike Helmets for Children and Young Adults
Brain Injury Services of Southwest Virginia is happy to pass out free bike helmets to children and young adults. Please visit us, learn about the importance of helmets, get fitted, and get a helmet!
Limited supplies.
Member One Lumberjack Show
The Member One Lumberjack Show–a collection of the most flannel wearin’, ax swingin’, log rollin’, and saw pullin’ lumberjacks (and Jills) out of Hayward, Wisconsin–will be joining us at GO Fest to run the gamut on rough, tough lumberjack skills.
You’ll see a full treatment of timber-crushing action – whole logs of pine sliced in seconds; axes hurled from distances of up to 20 feet; the best tools of the lumberjack trade, from modern tech to old time implements; and more feats of “lumbersexual” strength. Throw in some laughable narration by the frontman, not to mention some pretty entertaining antics from the lumberjacks themselves, and you’ve got a show that never disappoints.
The Lumberjack Show is brought to you by Member One Federal Credit Union. Member One is a proudly local, full-service financial institution serving southwest and central Virginia. Their passion is to provide individuals and businesses in our community with financial tools they can count on, from everyday essentials to major money milestones.
Cycle and Sculpt
Cycle and Sculpt (combo cycle & yoga).
Want the best of both cardio worlds at H/H? 25 minutes of cycle + 25 minutes of sculpt + 10 minutes of final relaxation will have you feelin’ werked in more ways than one. A complete full body challenge – this class is designed to improve stamina, cardiovascular endurance, and muscle strength.
Partner Yoga
Partner Yoga: Sunday @ 11:00 am (Century Plaza)
Bring a friend, spouse, child—anyone!—and join us for a fun and creative all-levels yoga class that fosters connection and communication! No partner necessary, though- we’ll pair you up if needed. 45 minutes (with Susi Hutchison, Harrilyn Mills, and Uttara Yoga Studio).
Junior Ranger Program
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
Throw Ropes Class
Throw rope types and their uses. Learn how to properly utilize them effectively.
Boat Demo (All Ages)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Three Notch’d Brewing LocalZone Stage
Local favorites play hits and originals for a fun-filled, dancin’ in the streets kinda party. The Three Notch’d LocalZone Stage will be set up near the market square on Wall St. SE outside of Three Notch’d Brewery Roanoke. Buy your beer inside any of our nine participating venues in downtown Roanoke, and you can take your alcoholic beverage in a specially marked cup out into the streets to enjoy live music, vendors, stunt shows, shopping and more.
- Friday, October 15
- 6-8 pm – The Jared Stout Band
- Saturday, October 16
- 12-2 pm – Dropping Julia
- 3-5pm – GOTE
- Sunday, October 17
- 12-2pm – Charissa Joy
Deschutes Brewery Oyster Roast with Bloom Restaurant
Celebrate Virginia’s beauty and bounty on Sunday, October 17th, during GO FEST 2021, at Century Plaza in downtown Roanoke.
This year’s Oyster Cook-Out will feature fan-favorite “Rappahannock” oysters from Rappahannock River Oyster Company. Oysters will be prepared by local restaurant bloom | Restaurant & Wine Bar, and served alongside tasty beer pairings from Deschutes Brewery. Buckets and Beers will be served hourly. All tickets and scheduled time slots are limited to TEN BUCKETS each so don’t wait!
FEE INCLUDES:
- One bucket of FRESH STEAMED (served warm) “Rappahannock” Oysters (~18 oysters/per bucket)
- Classic accouterment: hot sauce, Saltine crackers, fresh lemon, and bloom cocktail sauce.
- Two, 4oz. damn tasty beer pairings from Deschutes Brewery (additional beverages available for purchase)
- Snacks: Lemon-Thyme Cornbread, Whipped Hot-Honey Butter, and 3 Cheese Pimento cups.
- 30-minute table reservation in Century Plaza
RSVP and GET UPDATES in our Facebook Event
**SELECT YOUR PICK-UP WINDOW WHEN PURCHASING**
Time slots include 12:30, 1:30, 2:30 and 3:30. That’s only 40 total buckets, we will sell out fast.
Hop On, Hop Off Cycle Pub presented by Gentry Locke
Star City Cycle Pub will be offering “hop on, hop off” rides between local establishments. If you see the cycle pub riding by, flag it down and hop on…then when you get to a brewery you want to check out just hop off. Star City Cycle Pub will be doing a continuous loop between Golden Cactus, Big Lick Brewing, Three Notch’d Brewing, and Deschutes Brewery. Ride Responsibly, Gentry Locke.com.
The pick up/drop off location in the heart of GO Fest is located on Church Avenue, next to Deschutes Brewery.
The cycle pub will be running Friday (6-9pm), Saturday (4-6pm) and Sunday (1-4pm).
Free Sunday Concerts in Elmwood
Pack a picnic, grab a beer, kick back, and listen to live music in Elmwood from 1 pm-4 pm, Sunday afternoon . . . and it’s free thanks to our partnership with the Berglund Center.
The afternoon kicks off with JGC Trio followed by The Floorboards.
JGC Trio is Roanoke’s new favorite power trio! Jake, George, & Colby. Jake Dempsey on the bass, George Penn on drums, and Colby Elswick on guitar/vocals.
The Floorboards are an American roots rock ensemble hailing from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The band marries rock & roll and country roots with the sights and sounds of southern mountain towns. Jake and Rob shake the leaves from the trees. Chris coaxes stringed cries from the hills and hollers. Matt writes and sings the story.
ProTown BMX Show present by Lancerlot
The Pro Town BMX stunt show is quite the aerial spectacle featuring professional bikers many of whom have competed in X Games, Gravity Games and more! Watch as they flip, spin and perform amazing acrobatic feats all while riding a bicycle.
Lacerlot: The only place to Learn to Skate! Make The Lot your holiday skating tradition. lancerlotsportscomplex.com
All About Composting!
Come to the Clean Valley Council tent, see our new compost trailer, and learn more about composting with our partner the Harvest Collective.
Ride With Jeff Lenosky, The Trail Boss
Grab your mountain bike and spend a few hours riding (and learning) from the legendary Jeff Lenosky during a fun interactive group ride experience.
Jeff will lead two rides on Saturday and two on Sunday.
Saturday Rides:
- 9am at Carvins Cove (meet at Bennett Springs Parking Lot) – Register
- 2pm ride Mill Mountain (meet in front of the Elmwood Stage at GO Fest) – Register
Sunday Rides:
Boat Demo (Adult Only)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
Transporting Boats Class
Learn how to properly load / unload your boat along with securing to the vehicle.
Member One Lumberjack Show
The Member One Lumberjack Show–a collection of the most flannel wearin’, ax swingin’, log rollin’, and saw pullin’ lumberjacks (and Jills) out of Hayward, Wisconsin–will be joining us at GO Fest to run the gamut on rough, tough lumberjack skills.
You’ll see a full treatment of timber-crushing action – whole logs of pine sliced in seconds; axes hurled from distances of up to 20 feet; the best tools of the lumberjack trade, from modern tech to old time implements; and more feats of “lumbersexual” strength. Throw in some laughable narration by the frontman, not to mention some pretty entertaining antics from the lumberjacks themselves, and you’ve got a show that never disappoints.
The Lumberjack Show is brought to you by Member One Federal Credit Union. Member One is a proudly local, full-service financial institution serving southwest and central Virginia. Their passion is to provide individuals and businesses in our community with financial tools they can count on, from everyday essentials to major money milestones.
Boat Demo (All Ages)
Try out Silverbirch Canoes and Tootega Kayaks in the pool.
Rangers Crew Exhibition Battle
The Rangers Dance Crew, featuring elements of, the legendary Club Rockers lead by Off The Hook, Life By Movement, Virginia Tech Breakdance Club, and various independent artist from the Roanoke Valley and surrounding areas. (Potential crowd participation if following Covid restriction and CDC guidelines.)
With various performances from the featured artist.
ProTown BMX Show present by Lancerlot
The Pro Town BMX stunt show is quite the aerial spectacle featuring professional bikers many of whom have competed in X Games, Gravity Games and more! Watch as they flip, spin and perform amazing acrobatic feats all while riding a bicycle.
Lacerlot: The only place to Learn to Skate! Make The Lot your holiday skating tradition. lancerlotsportscomplex.com
All About Composting!
Come to the Clean Valley Council tent, see our new compost trailer, and learn more about composting with our partner the Harvest Collective.
Vinyasa Flow
Vinyasa Flow: Sunday @ 4:00 pm (Elmwood Park)
Unite with your center in this class featuring plenty of sun salutations mixed with unique sequencing to move your body and still your mind. This is an all-levels class, with modifications provided for beginners and more challenging options provided for experienced practitioners. 45 minutes (with Leilani Dibble and Uttara Yoga Studio)
Ultimate Air Dogs Presented by Mast General Store
Just one of the many ways your pooches can enjoy GO Fest. As one of the premiere dock jumping organizations in the country, Ultimate Air Dogs is a crowd pleaser, and is voted best event at GO Fest every year.
Come see true athletes at work which trained dogs in a variety of breeds compete in events such as distance jumping, “catch it” where they have to catch a toy of their choice in mid-air, and “fetch it” where a soft bumper is suspended in mid-air and dogs must knock the bumper off its holder while jumping the furthest distance possible.
There will also be opportunities for you dogs to try it themselves! Receive some basic instruction from professional trainers, and see if your dog has what it take become an air dog. $20/dog.
Ultimate Air Dogs is made possible from support by Mast General Store.
Lapidary Art
Lapidary is the art of cutting and polishing stones. Participants will have the opportunity to polish stones using a polishing wheel.
Lichenorknot Plant Co – Pot Your Plant!
Pot your own plant in our potting station or keep your hands clean and we’ll do it for you!
1)Pick a Plant 2) Pick a Pot 3) Pick Up Later
Snowball and Ski Toss
We will have two fun events outside our booth: (1) participants throw plastic hoops onto the tips of different length skis at different distances. (2) participants throw styrofoam “snowballs” into bowls at different distances. We have prizes to give to participants.
Demo Pool, presented by Freedom First
Ever wanted to try out a stand up paddle board, and never got the chance? Been wanting to work on your paddle stroke? Come check out the GO Fest demo pool and try your hand at a new watercraft! Instructional classes and demos will also be offered throughout the weekend.
Stop by the Freedom First tent next to the demo pool and enter to win a kayak and Yeti cooler.
Kids Bike Course
Calling all the littlest riders out there! The kids bike area will be open throughout the festival giving kiddos the chance to try out a balance bike and get some laps in. We’ll have several balance bikes available, but feel free to bring your own bike as well. Have fun out there!
Demo an E-Bike
Stop by the Cardinal Bicycle tent and check out the latest Specialized e-bikes…then take one for a test ride.
Orvis Casting Pond
Learn about the newest fly casting gear with the knowledgeable staff at Orvis.
Orvis staff, along with Trout Unlimited and DWR, will be doing casting demonstrations throughout the weekend. Due to current COVID restrictions all demonstrations will be done by Orvis, Trout Unlimited, and DWR staff/volunteers.
Used Gear Exchange tent
You probably have some outdoor gear you no longer use? Why not make room for some new gear! Looking for a new-to-you piece of gear? Stop by and browse the deals.
Bring your outdoor gear to the Used Gear Tent (located in Elmwood Park along the water fountain walkway) and the Boy Scouts will help you sell it.
Here’s how it works if you have gear to sell:
- You put your name, price of item, and phone number on a tag that is attached to the piece of gear.
- You leave your gear there and the Boy Scouts will keep an eye on it.
- If a person stops by and is interested in purchasing your gear they will give you a call to arrange a time to meet and finalize the sale.
- At the end of GO Fest it is the sellers responsibility to stop back by the tent to pick up their gear in the event it did not sell. Any gear not picked up will be donated to the Boy Scouts.
Dick’s Sporting Goods Tailgate Experience
Stop by the Dick’s Tailgate Experience Tent in Elmwood Park for classic tailgate games, grilling, and live sports on TVs.
Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club Membership Drive and Information Event
Using a large map of the AT the participant(s) try to complete the entire trail by answering trivia type questions about the AT. The whole process is done with tongue in cheek and all participants get a “reward” for playing.
Rewards are items such as AT stickers, Adventure magazines and other trinkets.
The Alpinist Movie
Take a break from GO Fest and head over to the Grandin Theatre and watch The Alpinist.
Marc-André Leclerc climbs alone, far from the limelight. The free-spirited 23-year-old makes some of the boldest solo ascents in history. With no cameras and no margin for error, Leclerc’s approach is the essence of solo adventure.
Movie times: Four times a day 10/15-17 and 10/22-24.
“GO Fest Letterboxing” with Camp Bethel Outdoors
Learn to navigate the great outdoors all within the festival grounds with a compass (on your phone), a GO Fest map, and several clues. Gather your first clue at the Camp Bethel Outdoors booth and use your Go Fest Map and a compass to find your first letterbox hidden at other partnering booths. Each box contains a stamp, a stamp pad, and a clue to guide you to your next box. Your route includes 3 stops before arriving back at the Camp Bethel Outdoors booth to receive your final “Mysterious Prize.” Along the way, you meet other fun people and gain map and compass skills.
See Yourself in Blue at RPD
GO Fest Virtual Run presented by Fleet Feet
Introducing the GO Fest Virtual Run presented by Fleet Feet!
This is a 100% virtual run – but it’s not your average virtual run. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Project Outside AND you have the chance to win up to $600 in prizes from Fleet Feet!
Here’s how it works:
- Sign up for GO Fest Virtual Run for only $5 (that’s a $5 donation to Project Outside)
- You can donate more to Project Outside when you register if you wish (pretty please, our outdoors need your help!)
- RUN or WALK any distance – it just has to be done during GO Fest Weekend AND outside – October 15-17, 2021
- Get a sweet GO Fest Virtual Run decal – perfect for your car or your Hydroflask. Pick up at the Fleet Feet tent at GO Fest! We’ll mail it to you if you’re out of state. (Please send an email to casey@fleetfeetroanoke.com to confirm if you’re out of state)
- ENTER TO WIN UP TO $600 IN INSANELY AWESOME PRIZES FROM FLEET FEET! Sorry, this is for locals only. Prizes include a head-to-toe outfit from Brooks (including shoes) + more. Only registered participants are eligible to win prize pack.
Fun Dog Obstacle Course
Interested in having your dog doing agility courses? This is a fun small scale introduction to a few of the obstacles found in many agility courses. Agility courses are fun for both human and dog, and it is a great bonding exercise with your pet too!
Air-Dry Clay Crafts
Use air-dry clay to create or paint a plate, bowl, or coaster imprinted with leaves and flowers.
The Great Trash Race
Participants will race other people in their group to sort through trash to select recyclables from the trash. Using trash grabbers, individuals will have to correctly place all recyclables into the recycling bin. Winners will earn a sticker to show off their amazing knowledge!
Sidewalk Sale
Join us at Walkabout Outfitter in downtown Roanoke for our Sidewalk Sale during Go Fest 2021. Browse the highest quality brands in outdoor sports and fashion, snap some free samples*, and save up to 70% on select merchandise!
*while supply lasts
Self-Guided Bicycle Tours
Take one of RIDE Solutions 40+ self-guided tours to explore all that Roanoke has to offer while on two wheels instead of behind the wheel of a car.
Guess the Pack Weight
Did you know most backpacks have five adjustable straps to help alleviate a heavy load and adjust to the terrain at hand? Come stop by Walkabout Outfitter for all of your outdoor needs, and get fitted for a backpack while you’re here! Both day hikers and longer distance hikers need to be aware of pack weight to avoid damage to the item’s seams and injury to self.
All weekend long, we will have a sample backpack filled to the brim. Take a guess at how much our pack weighs and you can win fun prizes! The closest guess to the pack’s actual weight will win. :)
One entry per person. Winners will be announced on Monday, October 18th.
Self Guided Hikes
Find a new hike GO Fest weekend!
Leave the asphalt, cars, and noise behind and lose yourself while taking a walk in the woods. From the well-known Appalachian Trail and its most photographed point, McAfee Knob, to some hidden gems such as Harkening Hill or Hoop Hole Trail, there’s a hike that suits every type of adventurer.
Each of the hikes listed include trail information, tips for parking, what you should look for along the way, and how tough (or easy) the hike will be.
So lace up your boots, grab a bag and hit the trail. You won’t be disappointed.
Ninja Course
Kids will be able to climb, crawl and jump through our Ninja Course as they practice their balance, speed and agility!
Make-Your-Own Soccer Kit
Backyard Bass
Come test your casting skills with Backyard Bass! Kids will cast to fish shaped targets and reel in their catch!
Plant THIS not That
Working with the public to identify invasive species plants and learn which native plants to grow in their place.
Straw Bale Gardening
Straw bale gardening demo with growing vegetables in small, portable space
Knot Tying with Camp Alta Mons
Learn to tie various knots (square knot, figure 8, figure 8 on a bight, figure 8 follow through, tautline, clove hitch, and others!) at the Camp Alta Mons booth!
Self-Guides Mountain Bike Rides
Virginia’s Blue Ridge is the only East Coast community with a Silver-Level Ride Center designation by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA); come see why we’re the Mountain Bike Capital of the East.
The Blue Ridge Mountains have produced the best mountain biking trails in the East Coast. Whether you are into single speed, downhill, or cross country you will be spent after a day on these trails.
The region is home to multiple trail systems — Mill Mountain Park, Explore Park, Douthat State Park, and Carvins Cove to name a few — that include multiple ride options that can give you a short half-hour ride or occupy you all day long. Add each of these areas to your bucket list, check them off one at a time, and be prepared to come back again and again.
And we’re not ashamed to say the region is home to a few stand-alone epic trails as well. These are classic Roanoke mountain bike rides and not for the faint at heart. Some are one-way rides, so consider a shuttle and plan in advance. These adventures include the Patterson Creek Trail System, Arcadia Up and Over, Dragon’s Back and Dody Ridge.
Lapidary Art
Lapidary is the art of cutting and polishing stones. Participants will have the opportunity to polish stones using a polishing wheel.
Lichenorknot Plant Co – Pot Your Plant!
Pot your own plant in our potting station or keep your hands clean and we’ll do it for you!
1)Pick a Plant 2) Pick a Pot 3) Pick Up Later
Snowball and Ski Toss
We will have two fun events outside our booth: (1) participants throw plastic hoops onto the tips of different length skis at different distances. (2) participants throw styrofoam “snowballs” into bowls at different distances. We have prizes to give to participants.
Demo Pool, presented by Freedom First
Ever wanted to try out a stand up paddle board, and never got the chance? Been wanting to work on your paddle stroke? Come check out the GO Fest demo pool and try your hand at a new watercraft! Instructional classes and demos will also be offered throughout the weekend.
Stop by the Freedom First tent next to the demo pool and enter to win a kayak and Yeti cooler.
Kids Bike Course
Calling all the littlest riders out there! The kids bike area will be open throughout the festival giving kiddos the chance to try out a balance bike and get some laps in. We’ll have several balance bikes available, but feel free to bring your own bike as well. Have fun out there!
Demo an E-Bike
Stop by the Cardinal Bicycle tent and check out the latest Specialized e-bikes…then take one for a test ride.
Orvis Casting Pond
Learn about the newest fly casting gear with the knowledgeable staff at Orvis.
Orvis staff, along with Trout Unlimited and DWR, will be doing casting demonstrations throughout the weekend. Due to current COVID restrictions all demonstrations will be done by Orvis, Trout Unlimited, and DWR staff/volunteers.
Used Gear Exchange tent
You probably have some outdoor gear you no longer use? Why not make room for some new gear! Looking for a new-to-you piece of gear? Stop by and browse the deals.
Bring your outdoor gear to the Used Gear Tent (located in Elmwood Park along the water fountain walkway) and the Boy Scouts will help you sell it.
Here’s how it works if you have gear to sell:
- You put your name, price of item, and phone number on a tag that is attached to the piece of gear.
- You leave your gear there and the Boy Scouts will keep an eye on it.
- If a person stops by and is interested in purchasing your gear they will give you a call to arrange a time to meet and finalize the sale.
- At the end of GO Fest it is the sellers responsibility to stop back by the tent to pick up their gear in the event it did not sell. Any gear not picked up will be donated to the Boy Scouts.
Dick’s Sporting Goods Tailgate Experience
Stop by the Dick’s Tailgate Experience Tent in Elmwood Park for classic tailgate games, grilling, and live sports on TVs.
Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club Membership Drive and Information Event
Using a large map of the AT the participant(s) try to complete the entire trail by answering trivia type questions about the AT. The whole process is done with tongue in cheek and all participants get a “reward” for playing.
Rewards are items such as AT stickers, Adventure magazines and other trinkets.
The Alpinist Movie
Take a break from GO Fest and head over to the Grandin Theatre and watch The Alpinist.
Marc-André Leclerc climbs alone, far from the limelight. The free-spirited 23-year-old makes some of the boldest solo ascents in history. With no cameras and no margin for error, Leclerc’s approach is the essence of solo adventure.
Movie times: Four times a day 10/15-17 and 10/22-24.
“GO Fest Letterboxing” with Camp Bethel Outdoors
Learn to navigate the great outdoors all within the festival grounds with a compass (on your phone), a GO Fest map, and several clues. Gather your first clue at the Camp Bethel Outdoors booth and use your Go Fest Map and a compass to find your first letterbox hidden at other partnering booths. Each box contains a stamp, a stamp pad, and a clue to guide you to your next box. Your route includes 3 stops before arriving back at the Camp Bethel Outdoors booth to receive your final “Mysterious Prize.” Along the way, you meet other fun people and gain map and compass skills.
See Yourself in Blue at RPD
GO Fest Virtual Run presented by Fleet Feet
Introducing the GO Fest Virtual Run presented by Fleet Feet!
This is a 100% virtual run – but it’s not your average virtual run. 100% of the proceeds will go directly to Project Outside AND you have the chance to win up to $600 in prizes from Fleet Feet!
Here’s how it works:
- Sign up for GO Fest Virtual Run for only $5 (that’s a $5 donation to Project Outside)
- You can donate more to Project Outside when you register if you wish (pretty please, our outdoors need your help!)
- RUN or WALK any distance – it just has to be done during GO Fest Weekend AND outside – October 15-17, 2021
- Get a sweet GO Fest Virtual Run decal – perfect for your car or your Hydroflask. Pick up at the Fleet Feet tent at GO Fest! We’ll mail it to you if you’re out of state. (Please send an email to casey@fleetfeetroanoke.com to confirm if you’re out of state)
- ENTER TO WIN UP TO $600 IN INSANELY AWESOME PRIZES FROM FLEET FEET! Sorry, this is for locals only. Prizes include a head-to-toe outfit from Brooks (including shoes) + more. Only registered participants are eligible to win prize pack.
Fun Dog Obstacle Course
Interested in having your dog doing agility courses? This is a fun small scale introduction to a few of the obstacles found in many agility courses. Agility courses are fun for both human and dog, and it is a great bonding exercise with your pet too!
Air-Dry Clay Crafts
Use air-dry clay to create or paint a plate, bowl, or coaster imprinted with leaves and flowers.
The Great Trash Race
Participants will race other people in their group to sort through trash to select recyclables from the trash. Using trash grabbers, individuals will have to correctly place all recyclables into the recycling bin. Winners will earn a sticker to show off their amazing knowledge!
Sidewalk Sale
Join us at Walkabout Outfitter in downtown Roanoke for our Sidewalk Sale during Go Fest 2021. Browse the highest quality brands in outdoor sports and fashion, snap some free samples*, and save up to 70% on select merchandise!
*while supply lasts
Self-Guided Bicycle Tours
Take one of RIDE Solutions 40+ self-guided tours to explore all that Roanoke has to offer while on two wheels instead of behind the wheel of a car.
Guess the Pack Weight
Did you know most backpacks have five adjustable straps to help alleviate a heavy load and adjust to the terrain at hand? Come stop by Walkabout Outfitter for all of your outdoor needs, and get fitted for a backpack while you’re here! Both day hikers and longer distance hikers need to be aware of pack weight to avoid damage to the item’s seams and injury to self.
All weekend long, we will have a sample backpack filled to the brim. Take a guess at how much our pack weighs and you can win fun prizes! The closest guess to the pack’s actual weight will win. :)
One entry per person. Winners will be announced on Monday, October 18th.
Self Guided Hikes
Find a new hike GO Fest weekend!
Leave the asphalt, cars, and noise behind and lose yourself while taking a walk in the woods. From the well-known Appalachian Trail and its most photographed point, McAfee Knob, to some hidden gems such as Harkening Hill or Hoop Hole Trail, there’s a hike that suits every type of adventurer.
Each of the hikes listed include trail information, tips for parking, what you should look for along the way, and how tough (or easy) the hike will be.
So lace up your boots, grab a bag and hit the trail. You won’t be disappointed.
Ninja Course
Kids will be able to climb, crawl and jump through our Ninja Course as they practice their balance, speed and agility!
Make-Your-Own Soccer Kit
Backyard Bass
Come test your casting skills with Backyard Bass! Kids will cast to fish shaped targets and reel in their catch!
Plant THIS not That
Working with the public to identify invasive species plants and learn which native plants to grow in their place.
Straw Bale Gardening
Straw bale gardening demo with growing vegetables in small, portable space
Knot Tying with Camp Alta Mons
Learn to tie various knots (square knot, figure 8, figure 8 on a bight, figure 8 follow through, tautline, clove hitch, and others!) at the Camp Alta Mons booth!
Self-Guides Mountain Bike Rides
Virginia’s Blue Ridge is the only East Coast community with a Silver-Level Ride Center designation by the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA); come see why we’re the Mountain Bike Capital of the East.
The Blue Ridge Mountains have produced the best mountain biking trails in the East Coast. Whether you are into single speed, downhill, or cross country you will be spent after a day on these trails.
The region is home to multiple trail systems — Mill Mountain Park, Explore Park, Douthat State Park, and Carvins Cove to name a few — that include multiple ride options that can give you a short half-hour ride or occupy you all day long. Add each of these areas to your bucket list, check them off one at a time, and be prepared to come back again and again.
And we’re not ashamed to say the region is home to a few stand-alone epic trails as well. These are classic Roanoke mountain bike rides and not for the faint at heart. Some are one-way rides, so consider a shuttle and plan in advance. These adventures include the Patterson Creek Trail System, Arcadia Up and Over, Dragon’s Back and Dody Ridge.
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