First Friday

Manassas

Manassas to Limit Downtown Events Amid Rising Public Safety Concerns

By Uriah Kiser
Exterior of Manassas City Hall on Center Street
Manassas City Hall

Following concerns over underage drinking and unregulated alcohol consumption, the Manassas City Council has implemented a new policy to limit the number of events held downtown. The decision, discussed at the October 21 council meeting, aims to reduce the strain on city resources and improve public safety, particularly for the popular First Friday gatherings in Downtown Manassas.

The policy will reserve one weekend each month as a “respite weekend,” when no significant events will be held in downtown, allowing city infrastructure and staff a much-needed break. Furthermore, city officials are considering reducing the frequency of First Fridays and other recurring events to manage safety risks and improve the experience for residents and local businesses.

Go to Manassas to Limit Downtown Events Amid Rising Public Safety Concerns Read more
Manassas

Exclusive: Underage Drinking, Alcohol Violations a Problem at Manassas First Friday

By Uriah Kiser

Concerns over underage drinking and people bringing outside alcohol into the First Friday event in Manassas have prompted city officials to reconsider how the popular downtown gathering is managed.

This one’s for the people who really care about local news.

Locals Only members get deeper reporting, more context, and fewer shortcuts.

Think that’s you?
👉 Join Locals Only
Already a member? Sign in

Go to Exclusive: Underage Drinking, Alcohol Violations a Problem at Manassas First Friday Read more
Manassas

First Fridays Under Scrutiny: Manassas Considers Event Management Changes

By Uriah Kiser
Manassas City Council

The Manassas City Council is re-evaluating the popular First Fridays event, a staple in the city’s historic downtown, following feedback from residents, businesses, and local authorities regarding public safety and overall event management.

At the heart of the review is the need to balance the community appeal of First Fridays with growing concerns about safety, traffic congestion, and parking. The council is considering changes to ensure the event remains a vibrant part of city life while addressing logistical challenges.

Go to First Fridays Under Scrutiny: Manassas Considers Event Management Changes Read more
Features

Souper Bowl: A culinary adventure to kick off First Friday events in 2024

By Uriah Kiser
Downtown Manassas [Photo: Manassas Economic Development]

According to Jheanel Butler, HMI event coordinator, the diverse soups include Sancocho from Puerto Rico Café, a hearty stew with a unique blend of beef cuts, chicken, and root vegetables. Grounds Central Station will serve roasted butternut squash soup, while SemiFreddo Italian Cuisine will present green lentil soup with prosciutto. Other highlights include Creamy Potato Soup from Vera’s Kitchen, Beef Brisket Chili from The Bone, Brunswick Stew from Hog Shack Bar-B-Q, and the intriguing Cheese Burger Soup topped with bacon from The Philadelphia Tavern. Vegans can delight in the Vegan Tomato Soup with a non-vegan grilled cheese bite from Honey & Ivy Gluten-free.

This year’s ticket includes a collectible anniversary mug for attendees, who can choose to use it at the event. Disposable tasting containers will also be provided. To add an interactive element, attendees will receive a map of all the stops with a QR code for online voting.

Go to Souper Bowl: A culinary adventure to kick off First Friday events in 2024 Read more
News

Manassas author pens ghost mystery book on antique shops 

By Amelia Breeden

“The story is told from the point of view of Mary Worthington, the eldest spirit, who serves as both the group matriarch and narrator. When items for sale arrive at the store without spirits attached, the group becomes concerned. In attempting to figure out why, the spirits discover that the old farmhouse itself conceals a century-old secret. A ‘cozy’ mystery engages the reader in the story without overly graphic violence or language.”

Go to Manassas author pens ghost mystery book on antique shops  Read more