As we know from home renovation shows, old buildings can be full of surprises — both good and bad! Luckily the Harrisonburg Homes Team of Kline May Realty was in for a treat when they renovated their Downtown office space in 2012. As they tore down drywall in the former Wilson Jewelers location, they uncovered a wall full of curious writing and fun illustrations. This artwork turned out to be graffiti that dated back to the 1890s — a piece of Harrisonburg history, perfectly preserved in time. more
A seemingly empty first floor of MODdisplays building doesn’t paint an accurate picture of the lively business that goes on inside. What many don’t see is the hustle and bustle of the second floor, where the staff is hard at work – and having fun. more
You'll already be downtown for Friendly City Fourth — don't let the fun stop there! Plenty of downtown businesses will also be open on the 4th of July. So when it's time to get out of the sun, head downtown and shop or dine at one of your favorite establishments: more
By Graham Schiltz — When Blue Nile closed in October 2014, downtown Harrisonburg lost more than the only Ethiopian dining option in a 50-mile radius. The restaurant’s basement hosted local music of every genre, from experimental noise to hip-hip to death metal. It was one of Harrisonburg’s only music venues, and it gave musicians a chance to perform and connect with each other. more
If you’ve lived in the Valley for any length of time, you’ve probably heard of Blue Ridge Architects. And if the name isn’t familiar, you’ve definitely experienced their work. A long-time Downtown Harrisonburg resident, Blue Ridge Architects — recently rebranded as “Blueline” — was founded 15 years ago and has had a hand in designing and building such prominent Downtown fixtures as Turner Pavilion, the Friendly City Food Co-Op, and the JMU wing of the Ice House building. I recently sat down with founder and owner Randy Seitz to talk their newly announced rebranding, their 15-year anniversary, and how the values and culture of Harrisonburg make them successful even as they expand into the national market. more
Looking for some great activities to keep your kids entertained this summer? Look no further! Downtown Harrisonburg has plenty of wonderful workshops and camps just for kids as well as events that the whole family can enjoy. more
Looking for the perfect way to spend Father's day? Look no further. Downtown has the perfect event for you and that special guy in your life this Father's Day. From brunch to brews and a slew of pretty amazing gifts, Downtown Harrisonburg is the place to go to show the father figure in your life just how special he is! more
Bright blue, yellow, and red pieces of glass make up the word LOVE in a colorful mural soon to be displayed on the Water Street wall of the Oasis Fine Art & Craft building. more
Sometimes home is not a house or where we were born; instead, it becomes a place we create far from what was once familiar to us. In November of 2005, James Carter, along with his wife, Angela, and toddler, Eve, left his birthplace in the World Heritage Site and historical city of Bath, England, to create a home in the Shenandoah Valley. After visiting the area in years prior, the couple agreed that The Friendly City was a place they could build a life together. With only ten boxes of belongings, no housing, no transportation or solid job offers, James Carter took a risk which would ultimately result in him achieving The American Dream. Prior to moving to Harrisonburg, VA, the Carters initiated an online business for the sole purpose of funding their overseas move. The business, Parentbaby.com, sold pregnancy and baby products — the same products James’ spouse, Angela, purchased during her pregnancy while visiting her home of southern Virginia. These products were not easily found in the UK, and was James’ first instance in discovering his love for entrepreneurship and online marketing. This venture was the beginning of Carter’s passion for marketing, and would eventually lead to him opening his own full-service downtown Harrisonburg marketing agency, Digital Minerva. more
