Shenandoah County Tourism: Mayfest is Coming!

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