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The Valley Today is a radio show and podcast dedicated to shining a light on the vibrant community leaders and local events that make the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia truly special.  Insightful conversations, engaging stories, and event details connect listeners with the heart and soul of the valley, showcasing its unique culture, initiatives, and people.
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  2. From the Patio to the Parade: Celebrating the Bloom and Beyond

From the Patio to the Parade: Celebrating the Bloom and Beyond

May 1, 2026

It's a bonus Friends of Old Town episode, recorded right in the thick of Apple Blossom! Janet sits down with Brady Cloven from Friends of Old Town and Holly Redding from Winchester Brew Works to cover everything happening in Old Town this weekend — from parade logistics and parking tips to brand-new businesses and a major announcement about a summer event you won't want to miss.

Topics Covered

🍺 Winchester Brew Works — Apple Blossom Weekend

  • The brand-new Cameron Street patio is open — completed a full week ahead of schedule
  • Same square footage as the old patio, longer and narrower, ADA accessible
  • Apple Blossom hours: Friday 2–10 PM | Saturday 11 AM–10 PM | Sunday open to 6 PM
  • Special drink offerings for the weekend: wines from Walsh Family Vineyards, strawberry hard cider and Valley Roots from Old Town Cidery, hard seltzers, slushies, and cocktails
  • Cameron Street serves as the staging area for the Firefighters Parade — prime people-watching from the patio
  • Private rentals available for events; indoor pergola seats 25–50 people

🎂 Winchester Brew Works — 10th Anniversary

  • 10-year anniversary celebration: Saturday, May 16th
  • Bringing back fan-favorite beers from their grand opening, including Mango Wheat and Coconut Canoe Love
  • Currently pouring 20–25 beers on tap (up from 6 at opening)
  • Food truck space limited during construction but expected to return once the drive is completed

🚗 Apple Blossom Parking & Logistics

  • Parking garages open: Court Square, George Washington, Loudoun, and others around Old Town
  • Flat event fee: $25 per day (Friday & Saturday starting 9 AM), credit card only
  • Watch for road closures and towing — check the City of Winchester website for full details
  • Sign up for road closure alerts at the city's website

🛍️ New in Old Town

  • Winchester Tavern — Chef Dan's newest restaurant, located under The Exchange at Loudoun (formerly The Monument) at the top of the walking mall
  • Newberry Building (former Dollar General) — Ben Ritenour of Roma and Alesation hosting popup events all weekend, including live music with a $10 cover.
  • Moon & Moss — new bookstore and shop on the walking mall
  • Please Boutique — new retail shop, just opened

🚧 Boscawen Street Closure Update

  • The city has decided to permanently close Boscawen Street to vehicle traffic
  • Boundaries set at Indian Alley intersection to just in front of City Hall parking lot exit
  • Public design feedback meeting already held; ideas include expanded patios, lawn furniture, fountains, charging stations, and public WiFi
  • Neighborhood Design District meeting: Thursday, May 7th, 5:30–7:00 PM at Taylor Pavilion — public welcome to give feedback

🎸 Taylor Pavilion

  • New stage debuted successfully at Wine Fest
  • Phase two grant application submitted
  • Will host bands during the Dog Days of Summer event (see below)

🌭 Big Announcement — Dog Days of Summer Hotdog Crawl

  • Date: Saturday, August 22nd, starting at noon in Old Town
  • Participating Old Town restaurants will each create their own artisanal hot dog
  • Guests purchase a passport and visit each stop — hot dogs will be voted on
  • Live music at Taylor Pavilion, possible beer garden
  • All proceeds benefit Friends of Old Town
  • More restaurant announcements coming soon

Connect & Follow

Winchester Brew Works

Friends of Old Town