Blog
The State of Downtown: A Glimpse into HDR’s Work this Year
In this blog post, we put a spotlight on HDR’s wide variety of work and initiatives and discuss the state of downtown.
People Behind the Presents: Hunter Woodard, James McHone Jewelry
Meet the People Behind the Presents! With this first blog feature, learn from Hunter Woodard, owner of James McHone Jewelry, about the shops’ long history, jewelry gifting advice, and visions for downtown.
Cause for Celebration: 2025 Downtown Harrisonburg Award Winners
On Wednesday, November 19, Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance’s sponsors, donors, volunteers, and supporters gathered at The Church of the Incarnation to celebrate our accomplishments in the last year, to take a look ahead at what’s to come, and to present our 2025 Excellence Awards at our annual Celebration Reception. Learn more about the award winners in this post.
Honoring Service: A Conversation with Grand Marshal Karin Flagle
HDR talks to 2025 Veterans Parade Grand Marshal, Karin Flagle about her service and the importance of recognizing our veteran community.
The Art Beat: Tyler Kauffman
Harrisonburg mural artist Tyler Kauffman shares his story in The Art Beat. From fine arts to large-scale murals, he talks about creative blocks, digital tools, public art, and finding balance between client collaboration and personal expression. His murals across Downtown Harrisonburg bring energy, depth, and emotion to the city’s growing art scene.
Make Thanksgiving Warm & Wonderful
Thanksgiving is almost here, and if you're looking for ways to savor the season, support local businesses, and treat your loved ones, we’ve gathered some of the sweetest deals and most delicious meal offerings.
The Art Beat: Vika Samoylov
Learn about Harrisonburg artist and designer Vika Samoylov in The Art Beat series. Known for her live wedding paintings and portraits, Vika shares how community and creativity shape her art in Virginia’s Downtown Harrisonburg.
Best. Weekend. Ever. Photo Recap
This past weekend was truly the Best. Weekend. Ever. Rain couldn’t even stop it! We are so grateful to our many sponsors and volunteers for making this event possible.
Friendly Faces of the Friendly City — Brad Cohen of Connexa Real Estate
Welcome back to our Friendly Faces of the Friendly City feature! This month, we interviewed Brad Cohen, founder and broker of Connexa Real Estate and a dedicated board member of Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance.
Giardina Orthodontics Has the Best. Weekend. Ever. in Virginia
Okay, we’re still buzzing from the weekend! Being the presenting sponsor of Best.Weekend.Ever in downtown Harrisonburg was honestly everything we hoped it would be and more.
Make This Mother’s Day Magical
Mother’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for ways to show Mom just how special she is, we’ve rounded up some of the sweetest, most relaxing, and most beautiful experiences offered by local businesses this year.
Hop Into the Fun with Easter Specials & Events Downtown
Get ready to hop all over downtown! From brunches and sweet treats, to egg hunts for all ages, there’s something for everyone! Here’s your go to guide for all the festive fun happening this Easter.
Great Community Give — A Day of Giving Back
Each year, Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance (HDR), along with many other local nonprofits, participates in the Great Community Give (GCG), an annual giving event in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County!