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