Public schools across Northern Virginia will close on Monday, October 20, 2025, in observance of Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights.
Stafford County, Prince William County, Manassas, and Manassas Park schools will all recognize the holiday this year, giving students and staff the day off. Offices and administrative buildings in each division will also be closed.
Historic Manassas, Inc. – From Monday, October 20, through Wednesday, October 22, the Manassas Museum will host the #VA250 Mobile Museum. You can see the free exhibit from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. outside the Manassas Museum.
The team behind the proposed Buc-ee’s Travel Center in Stafford County will meet face-to-face with residents tomorrow to discuss the project and answer questions.
A community information session is scheduled for Monday, October 20, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Colonial Forge High School, 550 Courthouse Road. Representatives from the Buc-ee’s development team will share details about the project planned for Austin Ridge Drive at the northwest corner of Interstate 95 and Courthouse Road, and will hear concerns from nearby residents.
Join us on Sunday, May 31st, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM for a beautifully curated afternoon celebrating the romance and inspiration of European travel. We recommend arriving at 2:45 PM for the best seating. We’ll begin with a brief presentation highlighting unforgettable journeys along Europe’s iconic rivers with AmaWaterways, followed by a special screening of Under the Tuscan Sun — a heartwarming story set against the breathtaking landscapes of Tuscany and the transformative power of embracing life abroad. A minimum $5 per person donation to Manna Food Center is required to attend, and we are proud to match donations up to $500. You may also elect to donate more. Non-perishable food donations are also warmly welcomed. Raffle proceeds will benefit Manna as well, helping provide nourishment and support to families in our community. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of Europe, enjoy wonderful company, and make a meaningful difference. We look forward to welcoming you.
Manassas City Public Schools – Jennie Dean Elementary School is the proud recipient of a $5,000 grant from the Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation. The funds will be used to support Jennie Dean families during the holiday season, said Family Liaison Leydu Cabrera.
Prince William County Public Schools – The Hylton Performing Arts Center launched its 2025–26 season with an evening featuring Broadway and television star Jeremy Jordan. Before the concert, students from Forest Park, Patriot, and Woodbridge High Schools, along with their choir teachers, enjoyed an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience.
On October 22, Fredericksburg City Public Schools will celebrate Unity Day, a special day to wear orange and stand united against bullying. By choosing kindness, acceptance, and inclusion, students and staff help create a school culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and valued.
Prince William County Office of Elections – Today (Sunday, Oct. 19), all early voting satellite locations are open for voting.
Weekdays: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
(Extended until 7:00 PM on Wednesdays)
Manassas Police Department (Facebook) – The DEA National Prescription Take Back Day is happening Saturday, October 25, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Residents can safely dispose of unused or expired medications at one of three convenient drop-off locations: Sentara Lake Ridge, UVA Health Haymarket Medical Center, and UVA Health Prince William Medical Center.
Stafford County Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities – The Stafford County Tree Lighting is back for another year, and organizers are searching for local makers to join the celebration. The event will feature food, games, live music, and hundreds of guests gathering for the holiday season.
The Tree Lighting will take placeon the first Friday of December at the George L. Gordon, Jr. Government Center, 1300 Courthouse Road in Stafford. Festivities begin at 6 p.m.
