Change is in the air for Hope Valley with the foundry to be built and the upcoming mayoral election. Elizabeth arrives home from a trip to Hamilton. A potential investor arrives in town to discuss the oil business with Lucas.

Elizabeth's book is finally published and it’s the talk of the town. Lucas plans a surprise party to celebrate the event, but some bad book reviews have Elizabeth in a less social mood.

Elizabeth sees a new side of Lucas when a flu bug leaves her without a babysitter, and he volunteers to watch Little Jack.

School Inspector Augustus Landis is back in town and starts questioning Elizabeth’s new accreditation to teach Angela. Lucas and Nathan decide to have a race, animal vs. machine.

Lee writes a new editorial in the Valley Voice. Gowen worries about the oil company’s intentions now that Fiona has all but secured a deal with investors.

Mayor Hickam decides that Hope Valley needs to get back to its hopeful, joyous roots and decides to host Hope Valley Days, a collective celebration inspired by giving, fun, hope and love.

Residents of Hope Valley continue to enjoy the town’s firstever Hope Valley Days Festival. But with an unwelcome visitor unexpectedly still in town, everyone comes together not just in celebration, but to help one of their own.

Walden returns to town, putting more pressure than ever on Lucas and the residents of Hope Valley. Bill comes up with a plan to stop Walden while new investors arrive from the oil company.

Elizabeth and Rosemary disagree on the best way to share unsettling news with the town about the coal mines, but that’s put behind them when Rosemary hears even more shocking news.

With the mine reopening imminent, Gowen decides to take drastic measures to make sure it stays closed. Elizabeth and Lucas struggle to communicate with each other. Lucas gets out of town to clear his head.

Elizabeth worries about her relationship with Lucas, while Bill helps Gowen through the fallout of the mine explosion. Rosemary and Lee receive some news.