Octoberfest Celebrations in Shenandoah County, VA As the leaves change and the weather gets cooler, Shenandoah County is hosting three Octoberfest events to welcome fall, celebrate Bavarian culture, and remember the area’s German roots. Originally, Octoberfest marked an 1810 royal wedding with two weeks of feasting, horse racing, and lots of beer. Since then, it’s become an annual event in Germany as well as the wider world. Look for high energy gatherings with dancing and traditional music, German-themed food, beer, and folks decked out in dirndls and lederhosen. Here’s how to raise a glass ..read more

Sustainability has become a prevailing trend in the wineries of Shenandoah County, Virginia, with wineries embracing eco-friendly practices. Our county’s wineries are increasingly recognizing the importance of sustainability, not just as a responsible choice, but as a necessary step towards ensuring a thriving future for the industry and the environment. From vineyard management to winemaking processes, wineries are seeking ways to minimize their carbon footprint, reduce waste and conserve resources. Practices are evolving to reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals and embrace organic and biod ..read more

  Walk or float the State Park and visit wine country in Shenandoah County Nestled between the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah County is the perfect weekend getaway. Located at the junction of Interstates 81 and 66, just west of Washington DC, Shenandoah County is an easy drive from many city centers.     Spring is a beautiful season to enjoy a hike at one of the newest State Parks in Virginia. Seven Bends State Park sits along one of the seven river bends that its name references. Choose from several types of hikes, including one that is flat and take ..read more

Did you know that January 31st is National Plan a Vacation Day? Since traveling promotes happiness and helps reduce stress. You might just be inspired by all there is to do in Shenandoah County and start planning your 2023 getaways!   Whether it’s a romantic trip for Valentine’s Day or just hoping to spend some alone time away from the daily grind we have you covered.   You’ll find rustic cabins surrounded by mountains and forests. Explore outdoor adventure, soak up the mountain views and unique culture, dine on mouthwatering farm-to-table meals, or just chill and listen to some loc ..read more

Shop Local…. Online. It certainly has been a wild ride these past few months with so many of the little things we take for granted suddenly with operating rules of six foot distance, mask-wearing, or take-out dining only. Many people have been looking into alternative ways to get supplies to their homes and online shopping is often a go-to resource. We all know that the big box stores are an easy click away, they keep your financial info and address stored so that you only need to whisper what you need and a few days later… poof! It’s at your door. But what about the small businesses that we ..read more

-Winter is a wonderland in Shenandoah County, Virginia after the first snowfall as the higher elevations often maintain their dusty snow-covered peaks throughout December, January and February. It is a perfect place to enjoy some of your favorite outdoor winter activities. So, it’s time to pull those snow pants, hats and scarves out of the closet!  Here are a few great ways to get out and enjoy the cold mountain air. The horses at Fort Valley Ranch put on their own winter coat for the season and will give you a peaceful ride through mountain trails for stunning views. These horses are as ..read more

The winter holidays are one of our favorite times of the year to get outside, see friends, go caroling, and of course, sip hot cocoa. Every year is a little different, but one thing remains the same– tree lighting, holiday lights and a good Christmas market always puts us in the Christmas spirit.     Shenandoah County knows how to celebrate the holidays, from drive-through lights to virtual tree lightings, Christmas is happening all across Shenandoah County, Virginia. You might even have a hard time picking which activities and events to partake in.     Don’t wor ..read more

In early June of 2022, Brenda, the Tourism and Economic Development Coordinator for Shenandoah County reached out to CORE to ask if we had any photos or videos of The Peters Mill and Tasker’s Gap Trails that they could use in their advertising and media.  Attendees: Jendra Rambharos & Andy Sams (the photographer) – Orange Jeep JKU Andrew Taylor – Silver Nissan Xterra Dawn Keslar – Black Toyota 4Runner Mike o’Grady – Red Jeep JKU We unfortunately did not have a significant number of pictures of the trails for a variety of reasons, the primary of which was the difficulty of the trail ..read more

   Bring the Family together for a Summer Experience in beautiful Shenandoah County, Virginia! Get closer to nature and build family bonds with a visit to Shenandoah County. Attractions here are no-frills and not fancy, but are   guaranteed to bring smiles and warm hearts. Hike in the woods, skip rocks on the river, feed llamas, pick berries and explore caverns   are just a few ideas, but imagine a place that allows for together time, marveling at the views, enjoying farm-fresh foods and creating   beautiful memories.  Agricultural Experiences Once ..read more

Shenandoah County’s Wine and Art Scene Shenandoah County is lauded for its beauty and wealth of outdoor entertainment options. But Virginia is also known as the “birthplace of American wine,” and residents have been growing and pressing grapes here for 400 years. Shenandoah County is home to nine vineyards that produce tasty and complex wines and take advantage of some of the area’s most impressive views. And while you might think the wine and natural landscapes are all you need to be happy, Shenandoah County also has a thriving art culture. From a historical pottery exhibit to world-class s ..read more