The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is pleased to announce that Mike Robinson will serve as the Featured Speaker at the Ladies Horticultural Luncheon, presented by Hilltop, and hosted by the Women’s Auxiliary of the Virginia Horticultural Society on Friday, May 1, 2026.
A lifelong resident of the Shenandoah Valley, Mike Robinson is a respected local historian, author, and storyteller whose work has brought the rich history of Winchester and Frederick County to life for thousands. A graduate of James Wood High School, Class of 1988, Robinson developed a deep appreciation for the region’s heritage at an early age—an interest that would later define his career.
He is best known as the author of the Winchester Tales book series and the creator of the widely followed Winchester Tales Facebook page, which connects more than 40,000 readers who share a passion for local history and storytelling.
Robinson’s journey also took him beyond the Valley. In 1994, he moved to Los Angeles, where he worked in the animation industry with Hanna-Barbera and Nickelodeon Animation Studio. During this time, he served as a Production Coordinator on the beloved children’s television series Dora the Explorer, gaining valuable experience in storytelling and creative production.
In 2004, Robinson returned home to Winchester and completed his history degree at Shepherd University, focusing on Civil War studies. Since then, he has dedicated himself to preserving and sharing the stories of the region, blending careful research with a warm and engaging narrative style that resonates with both longtime residents and newcomers alike.
Robinson is currently partnering with the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival on his most ambitious project to date—100 Stories of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival – Celebrating 100 Years. This highly anticipated book explores the festival’s origins and highlights the people, places, and traditions that have shaped its legacy in the Shenandoah Valley. Based on extensive research and firsthand interviews, the book offers a unique and personal look at one of the region’s most cherished traditions. Limited copies will be available for early order in Fall 2026, with wide release planned during the festival’s 100th centennial celebration in 2027.
Robinson is honored to be part of the 99th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®, a celebration that embodies the history and community pride he has spent years documenting. Through his writing, speaking, and ongoing research, he continues to connect people to the stories that make Winchester such a special place to call home. He also extends his gratitude to his wife, Amanda, and children, Amelia and Fynnley, for their continued love and support.
Mike will speak at the Ladies Horticultural Luncheon, presented by Hilltop on Friday, May 1, 2026 at 10:30 am. At 6:00 pm Friday evening, he will ride through the Hang 10 Car Wash Firefighters’ Parade and through the Glofiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 1:30 pm.
