Get ready for a new movement to build Downtown Harrisonburg as a destination where dog-friendly businesses thrive and pets enjoy memorable experiences! On this twentieth anniversary year, we are delighted to announce a new focus for the future of Downtown Harrisonburg: developing programs and events that are dog-forward as well as welcoming new dog-focused businesses to the Downtown Harrisonburg community. We look forward to working on this new focus to make Harrisonburg known nationally as "The Dog-Friendly City." more
Happy Valentine's Day! As part of our twentieth-anniversary celebration at Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance, we invited the community to share their love stories (romantic, platonic, family, etc.) that feature Downtown Harrisonburg. We LOVED reading everyone's stories and have shared some of our favorites on Facebook and Instagram. Check out the full collection of stories below, and prepare to feel warm and fuzzy. more
Voting is now open for Virginia Living's Best of 2023. It's no surprise to locals that several Downtown Harrisonburg businesses and attractions have made the nomination list, but we need your help in order to help these nominees place at the top. more
Welcome Eastern Mennonite University students to Downtown Harrisonburg! We are excited for you to discover our downtown community during Royal's Do Downtown - EMU’s Block Party event on Thursday, September 22 from 5 - 8 PM at Turner Pavilion. In the meantime, let us introduce you to some of the friendly faces of the Friendly City who graduated EMU. Read on for favorite memories and words of wisdom. more
This year has gone by in a blur and when we look back at what we accomplished this year, it's easy to see why! Our small but mighty team at HDR had a different focus each season adjusting to a "new normal" and keeping our community members engaged with downtown and our locally owned businesses. Let's take a look back at how we celebrated and contributed to the Downtown Harrisonburg community in 2021 and see what is on the horizon for the new year! more
Are you ready to count down to 2022? Usher in the start of the new year with family, friends, and community in Downtown Harrisonburg! Some of your favorite Downtown businesses are offering up special events, promotions, and extended hours, check out the roundup below to plan your festive weekend. more
The holiday shopping season kicks off this week with Black Friday on November 26 and Small Business Saturday on November 27! Shopping at local, independent businesses, like the 50+ retailers in Downtown Harrisonburg, helps build up our community by keeping funds circulating in Harrisonburg's economy. The variety of shops in our downtown district ensures that you'll find something for everyone on your list! more
Explore 30+ unique locally owned businesses online & in-person more
Whether you are looking to outsource your Thanksgiving meal or pick up a few sides, desserts, and drinks for your holiday feast, Downtown Harrisonburg has you covered! Check out our roundup for all things Thanksgiving, including ways that you can sweat it out before and after the big day! more
It’s that time of year again! The Friendly City Fortune raffle is entering its fifth year of giving contestants fabulous prizes and funding downtown programs. With each ticket giving you TWO chances to win cars, getaways, and cash with proceeds benefiting Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance, entering the raffle really is a win-win. Are you still on the fence about whether the raffle is a good fit for you? Let’s see if we can change your mind. Here are seven (lucky) reasons why you should consider purchasing a ticket this year. more