Virginia voters will head to the polls for the 2026 primary election on Tuesday, August 4.

Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. You can find your polling place here.

The last day to vote early, in person is Saturday, August 1. You can cast your ballot at the new Early Vote Center located at 1251 Turning Point Rd., Bedford, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Learn more about voting in Bedford County here. 

The first day of school for Bedford County Public Schools students is Wednesday, August 19.

Local drivers are reminded to heed school zone speed limits in the mornings and afternoons. School zones are typically 25 miles per hour unless otherwise posted.

Drivers will also want to be on the lookout for students waiting at bus stops in the morning.

The Bedford County Sheriff’s Office will host its National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 4.

The event will be held from 5-8 p.m. at the Runk & Pratt headquarters located at 1208 Perrowville Rd., Forest. Come out to enjoy food, drinks, music, touch-a-truck, and more.

After a hiatus in July, First Fridays at Falling Creek Park returns on August 7 with music by Chase Band.

Bring a lawn chair or blanket. The music starts at 6 p.m.

Food Connoisseurs food truck will be on site, and there will be inflatables for the kids.

The Snoopin' Around Bedford Scavenger Hunt continues through August 7.

More than 20 Bedford businesses and attractions are participating in this even that coincides with The Life & Art of Charles M. Schulz exhibition at the Bower Center of the Arts. You can pick up a passport at the Bedford Area Welcome Center (816 Burks Hill Rd., Bedford).

Learn more about the hunt here.