Features - Page 26 of 141 - Potomac Local News

Stafford Lights Christmas Tree Tonight

Published December 6, 2024 at 11:28AM

The Stafford County Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on December 2, 2022.

Stafford County is gearing up for a magical evening to kick off the holiday season with its annual Tree Lighting Event, scheduled for Friday, December 6, 2024, at the Stafford County Government Center, 1300 Courthouse Road. Beginning at 6 p.m., the event promises various performances, activities, and surprises for the whole family.

Attendees will be treated to holiday music from local choirs and bands, showcasing the talents of Stafford’s youth and community groups. For art enthusiasts, artisans and crafters will offer unique holiday-themed creations.

Fredericksburg Christmas Parade to Light Up Downtown on Saturday

By Potomac Local News

Published December 5, 2024 at 9:20AM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:40AM

Photo: Fredericksburg City Facebook page

Fredericksburg will host its annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. in downtown. The weather will be clear and cold on Saturday night, with temperatures dropping to 28 degrees.

The parade route will follow Caroline and Princess Anne Streets. Attendees are encouraged to dress warmly and wear walking shoes. The event is free and open to the public.

Marching Bands, Floats, and Holiday Magic: Don’t Miss the 78th Greater Manassas Christmas Parade

By Uriah Kiser

Published December 5, 2024 at 9:08AM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:41AM

The magic of the holiday season returns to Northern Virginia as the 78th Annual Greater Manassas Christmas Parade takes to the streets on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 10 a.m. Themed “Christmas in Candyland,” this year’s parade promises a of marching bands, floats, balloons, and holiday cheer.

The parade, a staple of the community for over seven decades, is among the largest holiday celebrations in Northern Virginia. With over 100 units participating, attendees can look forward to performances by local marching bands, including those from Osbourn High School in Manassas, Freedom High School in Woodbridge, and others, alongside decorated floats, dancers, and balloons.

Prince William County Offices Honored for ‘Outstanding’ Initiatives

By Caitlyn Meisner

Published December 5, 2024 at 9:00AM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:41AM

[Anna Tarazevich via Pexels]

Founded in 1934, VACo aims to monitor state and national laws that will impact local governments and recommend actions at the annual conference in November. According to its website, VACo often represents local governments in the Commonwealth at both the state and national levels.

“These VACo awards exemplify Prince William County’s dedication to preserving our rich cultural heritage and creating meaningful career pathways for our youth,” County Executive Chris Shorter said. “They reflect our ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant, resilient community where history is honored, and opportunities are accessible to all.”

Potomac High School Senior Places At National Business Competition

By Aya Karouane

Published December 4, 2024 at 6:32PM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:41AM

Juliocesar Flores [Image: Prince William County Public Schools]

Juliocesar Flores, a senior at Potomac High School, achieved success in regional and state FBLA competitions and earned second place at the National Leadership Conference. He attributes his accomplishments to the guidance of his teacher, Felix Sandy, and the skills gained through FBLA as he prepares to pursue a career in business.

Press Release from Prince William County Public Schools:

Virginia State Parks Offer Holiday Activities for the Winter Season

By Rosa Rivera

Published December 4, 2024 at 7:15AM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:41AM

[Photo: Virginia Department of Conservation & Recreation]

Press release:

Virginia State Parks invites visitors of all ages to experience the magic of the holidays with various festive events across the state. From historic educational programs to enchanting light displays, many parks offer unique ways to create memories and celebrate the holidays amidst Virginia’s breathtaking natural landscapes.

Prince William County Advances Revolutionary War Memorial at Williams Ordinary

By Uriah Kiser

Published December 3, 2024 at 9:45PM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:42AM

Uriah’s note: Welcome to another installment of our History and Heritage Feature Series, which was made possible through the support of Sentara. This series celebrates the rich cultural heritage and history of Prince William County, Stafford County, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg.

The Prince William Board of County Supervisors is advancing plans for a Revolutionary War Memorial at the historic Williams Ordinary in Dumfries, supported by an $81,000 grant from the Virginia Department of Historical Resources (VDHR) Virginia 250 Preservation Fund.

Community Interfaith Concert Scheduled for December 15th in Gainesville

By Dalila Conde

Published December 3, 2024 at 7:48PM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:42AM

[Image: Pixabay]

The program will feature music from the Little Zion Baptist Church, Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, Gainesville High School Ensemble, and the Gainesville Virginia Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, among others. Traditional carols and seasonal favorites will be performed.

Brief messages reflecting on the Christmas season will be shared by Pastor George Carlisle, Pastor James McCray, and President Hans Carlson, who is hosting the event for the first time. Carlson expressed his enthusiasm, emphasizing the concert’s focus on community and holiday spirit.

Slideshow: 2024 Nokesville Tree Lighting

By Caitlyn Meisner

Published December 3, 2024 at 11:00AM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:42AM

Santa and Mrs. Claus spoke to and greeted children who attended the tree lighting. [Photo by Mike Beaty]

The Nokesville Community Christmas Tree Lighting took place on Friday evening following Thanksgiving, officially welcoming in the Christmas holiday.

Coordinated by the Nokesville Community Christmas Parade — which will take place on Dec. 14 — dozens attended to see the neighborhood’s tree lit up for the first time this holiday season. One of those attendees was Virginia State Del. Ian Lovejoy (R-22), who represents parts of western Prince William County.

Free Presentations Offered for Seniors at Hylton Performing Arts Center

By Caitlyn Meisner

Published December 3, 2024 at 9:00AM | Updated December 5, 2024 at 10:43AM

[Graphic courtesy of Lifelong Learning Institute]

The programs are both being held at George Mason University’s Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas. The programs focus on different topics and presented by two experts in their own right.

LLI offers two programs each year in the fall and spring for adults aged 50 and over, drawing on members, local college faculty and residents’ expertise. Classes are typically held at the Hylton Center, as well as local churches, mosques, the Manassas Park Recreation Center and the Manassas campus of Northern Virginia Community College.