The Capital Wing of the Commemorative Air Force will host its first event of the year, the Warbird Expo, on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Culpeper Regional Airport. The event will feature warbird rides in a TBM Avenger torpedo bomber and a Stearman bi-plane, as well as a helicopter demonstration flight. As part of a Mother’s Day weekend promotion, all mothers attending will receive free non-alcoholic drinks from the Law Dawgs food truck.

Here’s the full press release:

Culpeper, VA – The Capital Wing of the CAF, Commemorative Air Force, will be hosting its first event of the year on Saturday May 10 at the Culpeper Regional Airport. This Warbird Expo event will feature warbird rides in a TBM Avenger torpedo bomber and Stearman bi-plane, plus an exciting helicopter demonstration flight at mid-day.

“As this is Mother’s Day weekend, we have a special treat for all the moms in attendance. All Moms will receive free drinks (non-alcoholic) all day at the Law Dawgs food truck,” said Pete Ballard, event coordinator. “Most people think of WWII warbirds as a passion enjoyed by only men. Not true. The Capital Wing has several women members and three of them will be at this Warbird Expo event. Nancy Gorell is a CAF certified Marshaller (an aircraft traffic cop), Val Lackey runs our PX, and Neharika Gambhir wears many hats and was recently featured in the CAF national magazine. All of them will be glad to talk to women and girls about opportunities to be around WWII warbirds at the Capital Wing,” said Ballard. “Oh, and by the way, the Law Dawgs food truck is owned and operated by Rhonda Hunt. She would love to talk to you.”

Featured on the ramp at the Warbird Expo will be one of the helicopters of AirCare6 operated by PHI Air Medical and based at the Culpeper Regional Airport. “We have made arrangements with AirCare6 to let the public get up close to this unique helicopter ambulance,” said Jerry Garegnani, one of the Capital Wing members organizing the event. “The crew of AirCare6, which includes several women aviation nurses, will explain what they do and show the public the inside of the helicopter,“ he said.

In addition, all those purchasing a warbird ride will receive a unique CAF Challenge coin, custom flight certificate, and booklet about their warbird. “For most people, a warbird ride is a bucket list item, a once in a lifetime opportunity,” said Ballard. “We will be providing rides in our TBM Avenger, the largest single-engine bomber of WWII powered by a huge radial engine developing 1,900 hp and the Boeing PT-17 Stearman bi-plane. Either warbird is an exciting experience.”

Warbird rides in the TBM Avenger and Stearman may be booked in advance at the Capital Wing rides website https://www.capitalwingwarbirdrides.org/. Flights not sold in advance will be available for purchase at the airport on the day of the event.

On static display will be a Japanese Fuji LM-1, one of only three still flying in the world, a North American T-6 Texan, and a French Alouette II, the world’s first jet powered helicopter. At mid-day the Alouette will provide a thrilling airborne demonstration, depending on weather and pilot availability.

The Culpeper Regional Airport is located on Beverly Ford Road at Rts 15/29 in Elkwood, VA. Parking and admission are free. The Warbird Expo will be open from 10 am until 4 pm Saturday May 10.

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Looking for something fun to do this weekend? We’ve rounded up the best local events happening Friday through Sunday. Whether you’re interested in the arts, fitness, or environmental awareness, there’s something for everyone in our region.

Art Exhibit at Annaburg
Friday, April 25 – Sunday, April 27
Annaburg, 9201 Maple Street, Manassas, VA
Enjoy a three-day art exhibit hosted by Manassas Parks, Culture, and Recreation. The event begins with an evening reception on Friday from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by gallery hours on Saturday and Sunday from 12 to 4 p.m. The exhibit features a wide range of work by local artists in a beautiful historic setting.
For more information: manassasva.gov or call 703-368-1873

Anything is Pawsable 5K Run – Manassas
Saturday, April 26 | 9 a.m.
Dean Park, 9501 Dean Park Lane, Manassas
This pet-friendly 5K supports the Prince William SPCA and welcomes runners, walkers, and animal lovers. Participants receive a race shirt and pet bandana (while supplies last). Proceeds benefit local animal rescue programs. Rain or shine.
Register or learn more: pwspca.org

Fredericksburg Earth Day Festival
Saturday, April 26 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Old Mill Park, 2410 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg
Now in its 20th year, the Earth Day Festival is a major outdoor event celebrating environmental awareness. Highlights include hands-on kids’ activities, riverfront yoga, live music, and over 100 eco-friendly vendors. The event is free and open to the public.
Read our full preview: Goat Yoga, Raptors, and Riverfront Fun
Event details: fxbg.com

Globetrotters Concert: Fredericksburg Sister Cities and Concert Band
Sunday, April 27 | 3 – 4 p.m.
James Monroe High School Auditorium, 2300 Washington Avenue, Fredericksburg
This free concert showcases music from around the world and celebrates Fredericksburg’s international partnerships. Hosted by the Fredericksburg Concert Band and Fredericksburg Sister Cities, doors open at 2:30 p.m.
More information: fxbg.com

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Looking for a way to connect with nature this spring? Don’t miss the Bluebell Festival at Merrimac Farm on Sunday, April 7, 2024! This family-friendly event celebrates the beautiful Virginia Bluebells in bloom and features guided tours, live music, local vendors, and fun activities for all ages.

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Three local music groups—Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, Gainesville Community Choir, and South Loudoun Youth Chorale—will perform together at the Hylton Performing Arts Center on Saturday, April 5, at 7:00 p.m.

The concert, Illuminare: Songs of Light and Life, will bring 300 musicians together for one evening. The program includes Lux: The Dawn from On High by Dan Forrest, selections from Mozart’s Requiem, and music from video games.

Each group shares a focus on music performance, education, and community involvement.

Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra (OBCO), formed in 1998, is an all-volunteer group that presents concerts in Prince William County. The group is led by Music Director David Kirven. More information is at obco.org.

Gainesville Community Choir (GCC) is a non-auditioned group that includes vocal technique and music literacy in its rehearsals. The choir received the 2023 Seefeldt Award for Outstanding Arts Organization, and its conductor Jacob Lash received the 2024 Seefeldt Award for Outstanding Arts Educator. Learn more at gainesvillecommunitychoir.com.

South Loudoun Youth Chorale (SLYC) works with young singers to build music skills and support music programs. Artistic Director Laura Lazarevich and Associate Artistic Director Erik Jacobs will lead the group. Details at slychorale.org.

Tickets are available through the Hylton Performing Arts Center website. Prices are $25–$35 for adults, $20–$30 for seniors, $5 for youth ages 6–17, and free for children under 5. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The concert will last about two hours with one intermission.

To purchase tickets, visit: hylton.calendar.gmu.edu/illuminare-songs-of-light-and-life

Take a ride back in time and welcome spring in style! Join Fredericksburg Model-A Car Tours for their “Spring into a Historical Model-A Car Tour” on Saturday, March 22, 2025. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., hop into a beautifully restored 1920s Model-A car for a scenic ride through historic Fredericksburg. Tours depart from the Courtyard Marriott at 620 Caroline St and cost $20 per person. Walk-ups are welcome, or you can pre-book your ride online at fredericksburgmodelacartours.com or by calling 989-239-9160.

Have an upcoming event? It’s FREE to share it with us! Just fill out this form: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058 — Provide the event name, date, time, location, a brief description, and a photo or flyer (if you have one). It only takes a few minutes and helps get the word out to thousands of local readers.

Join us for Little Bunny Business on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at Birmingham Green in Manassas. This fun-filled event is designed to bring the community together with activities for all ages.

Event Highlights:

• Meet the Easter Bunny – Don’t miss your chance to snap a photo with everyone’s favorite furry friend!
• Easter Egg Decorating Contest – Get creative and show off your artistic skills.
• Easter Egg Hunt – Search for colorful eggs filled with surprises!
• Egg and Spoon Race – Test your balance and speed in this classic game.
• Free Lunch – Enjoy delicious bites on us!
• Fun Outdoor Games – Plenty of activities to keep the little ones entertained.

Mark Your Calendar!
When: Saturday, April 12, 2025 (Rain Date: April 26, 2025)
Where: 8605 Centreville Rd., Manassas, VA 20110
Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Don’t miss this egg-citing event filled with fun, laughter, and community spirit!

Learn more: birminghamgreen.org

 

Cirque de Paris is coming to Woodbridge. Europe’s most famous circus family returns for an all-new, immersive experience under the big top at Potomac Mills from March 20-30, 2025. Featuring BMX trick riders, grand illusionists, high-flying aerialists, nimble acrobats, and comedic clowns, this 90-minute spectacle is a must-see for all ages. Enjoy an interactive pre-show, fun activities, and delicious treats during intermission. Get tickets and showtimes at CirqueDeParis.com.

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The stage is set, the lights are shining, and the electrifying energy of Jesus Christ Superstar is ready to take over the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The iconic rock opera, which first captivated audiences in the early 1970s, officially opened on March 13, 2025, and will run through April 27.

In a recent interview with Potomac Local News Podcast, lead cast members Anthony Nuccio and Kylie Ernest shared their excitement about bringing this timeless production to the local stage. Nuccio, who plays Judas Iscariot, described Jesus Christ Superstar as a fully sung-through rock opera with no traditional dialogue breaks. “It’s an incredibly high-energy show that blends rock music with a powerful narrative,” he said. “Audiences can expect a visceral and emotional experience.”

Nuccio, whose character is known as both the betrayer and confidant of Jesus, emphasized the human complexity of Judas. “The show does a really good job of showing the nuance and humanity in all characters involved. It’s not just about history—it’s about emotion, relationships, and the political climate of the time.”

Kylie Ernest, who portrays Mary Magdalene, also highlighted the deep storytelling embedded in the musical. “Mary is often portrayed as a background character, but in our production, she’s an integral part of the action. She’s always present, reacting, and emotionally invested in what’s happening,” Ernest said. “It’s been so rewarding to bring her character to life in a way that allows the audience to feel her emotions and struggles.”

For those unfamiliar with Jesus Christ Superstar, the musical is entirely driven by its legendary rock score, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber with lyrics by Tim Rice. Unlike traditional musicals, which incorporate spoken dialogue between songs, this production is non-stop music from start to finish. “Performing in a rock opera is an entirely different challenge,” Nuccio explained. “There’s no vocal break—you’re constantly singing, and that requires incredible stamina. But it also means the energy never dips.”

Ernest echoed that sentiment, noting how music helps convey the intensity of the story. “Even if audiences miss some of the lyrics or political nuances, the music itself carries the emotion. You feel the tension, the joy, the heartbreak—it’s all there in the sound.”

Since its debut in 1970, Jesus Christ Superstar has been both celebrated and controversial. Some traditional audiences initially objected to its portrayal of Jesus and its humanization of Judas. However, the show’s powerful storytelling and musical genius have made it a staple of modern theater. “The show allows us to see Jesus and Judas as real people with complex emotions,” Nuccio said. “That’s what makes it so compelling.”

Beyond its gripping performances, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside brings a fresh perspective to the classic rock opera, incorporating unique staging and deep character dynamics. “Our version places a strong emphasis on the relationship between Jesus, Judas, and Mary,” Ernest noted. “We explore their dynamic as a trio, which adds another emotional layer to the production.”

With its stunning visuals, passionate performances, and a score that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its debut, Jesus Christ Superstar at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts promises to be a must-see event this season.

The production runs through April 27. Tickets are available at riversidedt.com. Don’t miss the chance to experience this rock opera phenomenon live in Fredericksburg.

PRICES:

Adult Dinner & Show – $82 (plus applicable taxes)
Seniors (65+) Dinner & Show – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Children (3-17) Dinner & Show – $70 (plus applicable taxes)
Military Discount (limit 4 tickets with ID) – $77 (plus applicable taxes)
Adult Show Only – $65
Seniors (65+) Show Only – $60
Children (3-17) Show Only – $55

PERFORMANCES:

Thurs. – Sat. Evenings
5:30pm-6:45pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
6:45pm: Show Only Arrival
7:30pm: Performance Start

Sunday Matinees
1:00pm-2:15pm: Meal Service & Appetizers
2:15pm: Show Only Arrival
3:00pm: Performance Start

Unfortunately, tomorrow night’s Skate Night has been canceled due to low registration.

“But don’t worry—we’ve got exciting news! Starting in May, we’ll be hosting monthly Skate Nights, so stay tuned for more details,” the Fredericksburg parks and recreation office writes. “Thank you for your understanding, and we can’t wait to see you on the rink soon!”

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Get ready for a fun-filled evening at Luck O’ The Irish Bingo on March 14 at the ARTfactory in Manassas! Doors open at 6 PM, and the first game kicks off at 6:30 PM. Tickets are $35 for 10 games, each with three squares per game. Need more chances to win? Extra cards are just $10. Enjoy a food bundle (hotdog, popcorn, and soda/water) for $8, with additional food and drinks available for purchase.

Want to share your own upcoming event? It’s FREE to submit! Use this link to get the word out: https://form.jotform.com/221630757468058. Just fill out the form with your event details, and we’ll help spread the news!