The Shenandoah Valley Relay For Life season is getting underway — and organizers have a new date to mark on your calendar. The Relay For Life 2026 Kickoff will take place on Monday, January 26, 2026 at 6:30 PM at American Legion Post 27, 3021 John Wayland Highway in Dayton. All Relay participants, volunteers, and community supporters are invited to join an evening of information, community, prizes, and plenty of soup.
One of the evening’s highlights is a community soup potluck. Bring a homemade soup to share, or come ready to sample a variety of recipes prepared by fellow Relayers. Attendees will cast votes for their favorite soup, and the winning recipe will earn $500 toward the winner’s Relay fundraising page, generously sponsored by Dupont Community Credit Union.
In addition to the soup prize, there will be more chances to win:
- $500 Soup Prize awarded to the crowd-favorite soup, funded by Dupont Community Credit Union.
- $50 Amazon Gift Card raffle donated by 2026 Relay Event Lead Dee Dee Sencindiver with Nest Realty.
To be entered in the raffle and eligible for prizes, follow these three simple steps:
- Register for Relay For Life.
- Raise $26 between January 1 and January 26, 2026.
- Attend the Kickoff event on January 26.
The Kickoff is the perfect way to start the Relay season: get the latest event information, meet fellow Relayers, learn how to maximize fundraising, and enjoy a warm, community-centered evening. Whether you’re a seasoned team captain or new to Relay, the event offers practical updates and a chance to connect face-to-face before the season ramps up.
Registration and fundraising details are available through the Relay For Life local page and team leaders. Bring your registration confirmation or fundraising progress to the Kickoff to ensure you’re entered for prizes. If you have questions about bringing a soup, dietary labels, or setup, contact your local Relay organizers or event lead.
Come for the soup, stay for the community, and help launch an inspiring Relay For Life season. Please share this announcement to help spread the word and make the kickoff a full house.