Apr 28, 2026
Host Janet Michael sits down with Shenandoah County Tourism Director Kary Haun and Abby Walters, President of Strasburg Mayfest Inc., to talk all things Mayfest — one of the Shenandoah Valley's most beloved community festivals. Plus, Kary shares highlights from her morning kayak trip on the Shenandoah River.
In This Episode
- What is Strasburg Mayfest and how did it start?
- The full schedule of events for May 6th–9th
- How Mayfest became its own nonprofit organization
- The Heels & Hops luncheon — what to expect
- Free kids' zone, parade, duck race, and 5K details
- How local sponsors and volunteers make it all happen
- The new Mayfest King & Queen tradition
- Kayaking the Shenandoah River at Seven Bends State Park
- Riverfront and walkable downtown real estate in Strasburg
Key Details: Strasburg Mayfest 2026
- Dates: May 8–9 (Carnival opens May 6)
- Carnival hours: Wed–Thu 6–10pm | Fri 5–10pm | Sat Noon–10pm
- Heels & Hops Luncheon: Friday, May 8
- 5K Race: Saturday morning, meet at the high school
- Pancake Breakfast: Saturday (hosted by Kiwanis)
- Parade: Saturday at 2:00pm
- Duck Race: Immediately following the parade
- Vendors & Crafters: Saturday 10am–5pm on the square
- Evening Entertainment: Cashmere (Friday) | Robbie Lineman Band (Saturday) — both free
- Kids' Zone: Free bounce houses, trampolines, face painters, petting zoo
Resources & Links
- Strasburg Mayfest website: strasburgmayfest.com
- Strasburg Mayfest on Facebook: Strasburg Mayfest VA
- Shenandoah County Tourism: visitshenandoahcounty.com