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