The coming month is jam packed with programs and events with PLAY Roanoke. Our adult softball league is kicking into high gear and PLAY Pride softball is right around the corner. Youth athletic leagues are also beginning for soccer, flag football, tackle football, and cheer. The Sunset Spin Cyclocross race happens early September as preparation for the big GO Cross event later in the month! We’re also fully in the swing of things with our After School P.L.A.Y. program, and are excited to offer School’s Out Full Day P.L.A.Y. Care on select school closure days! There’s so much going on at the Fishburn Mansion in the coming weeks, we had to write a separate post (check it out here). That’s not all – take a look at what else we’re planning and get ready to find your September adventure!

Fun at the Discovery Center
Our popular Music on the Mountain series continues at the Discovery Center on September 13, featuring the musical stylings of Soulacoustix and the Empanada Nirvana food truck. We’re also holding two Nature Lab series this fall, beginning with the 6-week Fall Nature Lab beginning September 9 followed by a special 5-week Public Lands themed series beginning in October. Learn more about the Discovery Center.
Skate Sessions
Do you know an 8-10 year old who is eager to learn the ins and outs of skateboarding? Our upcoming Skate Sessions at the Wasena Skatepark are the perfect way to learn the fundamentals with a fun and supportive instructor! Learn things like balance, pushing, stopping, turning, skatepark etiquette, and introductory tricks in this six-week series (September 18 through October 31). More info and sign up.
Football Fest
We’re so excited about our Fall Football Fest to kick off the youth tackle football season on September 19! This will be a combine event with a variety of activities and drills, food truck, bounce house, time to complete your weigh in, and more! Join us in upper Washington Park on September 19 from 10 AM – 2 PM! More info.
Bug & Bat Night
Grab a flashlight and join us for some nocturnal neighborhood fun! We’ll be popping up for this family friendly program at Morningside Park on September 18. We’ll use UV lights to attract nocturnal insects that we otherwise never get to see and use highly sensitive microphones to isolate and amplify the echolocation of the bats flying around the park!
Hit the Trail
Our fall hiking programs kick into high gear this month, with a wide variety of local trails to explore. Catch the fall migration on the Hanging Rock Raptor Observatory Hike, enjoy a unique experience with an historical twist on the Blue Ridge Tunnel Hike, or check out our Senior Summits Series if you’re looking for a hiking crew with fellow 50+ year olds! View all upcoming hiking programs.
Day Trips
This month, we’re offering two fantastic day trips to explore the local region. On September 19 we’ll travel to Winston-Salem for a tour of historic Old Salem, the Museum of Early Decorative Art, restored historic buildings, and gardens. A visit to the Burke’s Garden Fall Festival is also planned for September 26! If you’re interested in more, we’ve got lots of great trips planned through the end of the year for you to check out! View all upcoming Day Trips
Save the Date for the GO Outside Festival!
Looking ahead to October, the annual Carilion GO Outside Festival celebrates everything that makes this region unique: its trails, rivers, mountains, music, and the community that chooses to live life outside. Pro shows, live music, races, countless hands-on activities, and adventure films are just the start of plans for the weekend. Don’t miss region’s favorite festival, coming to downtown Roanoke and Explore Park October 16-18!
Interested in all the upcoming programs and events with PLAY Roanoke this fall? View our Fall PLAY Magazine here!

