MANASSAS PARK, Va. – Residents, local officials, and veterans came together at 1 p.m. Friday, May 23, 2025, for the city’s third annual Memorial Day Flag Ceremony, held in front of City Hall. The solemn event honored the brave men and women who died in service to the country.
The ceremony opened with a presentation of colors by the Manassas Park Honor Guard and included remarks from city leaders and veterans’ advocates. Mayor Alanna Mensing highlighted the city’s historical ties to military service, noting that Manassas Park was originally founded as a community for returning veterans. “I feel both humbled and proud to stand with you… to lower our flag in honor of those who never made it home,” she said.
Councilmember Stacy Seiberling called Memorial Day “a day of remembrance, not celebration,” urging the community to live in a way that reflects the values of those who served. “May we never take our freedom for granted, and may we always honor the memory of our fallen heroes,” she said.
Speakers included representatives from several veterans’ organizations, such as the American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and the Northern Virginia Veterans Association.
Rick Raskin, a past state commander of the VFW, delivered a powerful reminder of the holiday’s meaning: “We gather not for barbecues or sales… but to pay tribute to those who gave their last full measure of devotion,” he said.
The event concluded with the lowering of the American flag and the playing of “Taps” and “Amazing Grace.” Light refreshments were provided by local businesses Yoder’s Donuts and Little Bowl, giving attendees a chance to reflect and share stories of fallen heroes.
Recent Stories

The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is your destination for all arts and culture activities in Northern Virginia. Find a concert, play, poetry reading, or exhibition in your neighborhood—many events are free and family-friendly!
Are you part of a performing arts group, school, or cultural organization? You can add your events and classes, too. The ArtsFairfax Events Calendar is free and easy to use.
Your attendance at local arts events supports small businesses in our community and the art makers who help make Fairfax and its surrounding region so vibrant. With the ArtsFairfax Events Calendar, you can stay curious and stay local to plan your next arts adventure!

Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Christmas in July
Volunteer Prince William will be holding a fun-filled Christmas in July event at Heritage Brewing Co on July 26th from 12pm until 6pm with all proceeds going to support the 2025 Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket Program. Untrim-A-Tree and Senior Basket
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something