The free three-day festival features outdoor adventures, live entertainment, food vendors, climbing, bike demonstrations and more.
ROANOKE, Va. – The Carilion GO Outside Festival kicked off Friday evening at Elmwood Park, bringing three days of outdoor activities, live entertainment and competitions to the Roanoke Valley.
The free festival runs Oct. 16-18 at two locations: Elmwood Park in downtown Roanoke and the Adventure Outpost at Explore Park.
As visitors began arriving Friday, WSLS spoke with ProTown BMX riders were practicing for their shows throughout the weekend.
Vendors at the event are offering food, outdoor apparel and recreation equipment.
Kait Pedigo, events manager for the Go Outside Festival and Roanoke Outside Foundation, said organizers want visitors to experience everything the festival has to offer.
“The number one thing about Go Fest is to just wander, explore, discover because there’s so much here,” Pedigo said.
Visitors can watch performances, browse vendor booths or participate in activities, including climbing, bicycle demonstrations and paddling. Explore Park also features a Ninja Warrior course, river activities with Rock Outdoors, Ultimate Air Dogs and a mountain bike race scheduled for Sunday.
At Elmwood Park, visitors can check out the Campfire Stage, which features conversations and films, including Catching Pinecones, made by a local filmmaker.
“I’d say probably at least 100 vendors and at least that many activities to do,” Pedigo said.
The festival also features live music, outdoor films, professional stunt shows and competitions. Friday’s lineup includes the Fleet Feet Beer Mile and Mountainfilm, with additional performances and activities scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.
Beyond recreation and entertainment, organizers say the festival is designed to bring people together while keeping outdoor activities accessible.
“We’re all about getting outside. It’s free to attend. We want to celebrate the outdoors. We want to celebrate this community. It’s about the people. It’s about the fun and the activities,” Pedigo said.
Organizers are also emphasizing sustainability this year by encouraging attendees to bring reusable cups for beverages and to clean up after themselves.
According to the Roanoke Outside Foundation, Go Fest draws about 40,000 people to the Roanoke Valley and generates roughly $3 million in economic impact for the region.
The festival continues through Sunday, Oct. 18, with activities at both Elmwood Park and Explore Park. Admission is free.
Visitors can find the full schedule and event details on the official Go Fest website.
Copyright 2026 by WSLS 10 – All rights reserved.
