Features

Editor’s Note: This feature article was based on a recent conversation from the Potomac Local Podcast with Sarah Burzio, Executive Director of Visit Occoquan. Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/mm39Kdj3plw?si=u3BLNjFXkHCWU-34

As spring blooms along the Occoquan River, this charming riverside town is rolling out a lineup of events and openings that perfectly capture its small-town magic. Just off I-95 yet a world away, Occoquan feels like a hidden gem where 100% locally owned businesses line walkable streets, artists thrive, and neighbors gather under the trees. This May, visitors and residents alike can dive into creativity, community, and cozy reads before the town’s big Riverfest celebration in June.


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Anglers of all ages are invited to the 2026 Occoquan Shad Run this Saturday. The Town of Occoquan is hosting the free event from 9 a.m. to noon on April 11 at River Mill Park, giving participants a chance to fish the historic Occoquan River during the spring shad migration.

Anglers can cast from approved riverbank spots, the footbridge or by launching a kayak or boat directly onto the water. The run focuses mainly on hickory shad, though American shad may appear. American shad must be released immediately because of a statewide conservation moratorium.


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Get ready for the annual Occoquan PEEPS Show in Occoquan

Now in its 9th year, the free, family-friendly event runs April 1-4, 2026, with no tickets required. Businesses and community members craft whimsical PEEPS marshmallow dioramas displayed in shop windows throughout the town and at Town Hall.


Weather

“Town Snow Emergency Routes will go into effect at 9 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, 2026, for anticipated snow-clearing operations,” the Town of Occoquan announced. “As a result, on-street parking, including marked on-street parking spaces, is not permitted on designated snow emergency routes.”

The restriction is intended to allow crews to clear roads efficiently during the anticipated snowfall. Vehicles left on snow emergency routes may be subject to enforcement once the order takes effect.


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“Today we celebrate his dedication, service, and continued commitment to our community,” the town added. “Congratulations, Jason — thank you for all that you do!”

Forman was recognized during the town’s Holiday Dinner, where Mayor Earnie Porta presented the honor following the results of the Prince William Times’ Reader’s Choice awards.


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Hundreds of people filled Mill Street and the steps of Occoquan Town Hall on Saturday night as the town flipped the switch on its Christmas tree, officially opening the holiday season in the small riverfront community.

The tree lighting began just after 6 p.m. in front of Town Hall, where gas lamps, wreaths, and shop lights gave the historic district a postcard feel. Broadcasting live from the event, Potomac Local News described Occoquan as a “nice little postcard, Hallmark movie town” that feels far removed from nearby Washington, D.C., despite sitting just off Interstate 95.


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“Beginning at 9 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, Occoquan Road (Route 906) between Horner Road (Route 639) and Old Bridge Road (Route 641) will be closed to through traffic for approximately two weeks,” the Virginia Department of Transportation announced. “Occoquan Road is scheduled to reopen at the I-95 overpass by 5 a.m. Monday, Nov. 24.”

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Mayor Ernie Porta’s latest Occoquan Radio Podcast recapped the November 5 Town Council meeting and shared updates on local businesses and upcoming holiday events. Here’s what residents should know:

For more on town events, visit VisitOccoquanVA.com/events.


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“Who’s impacted? The impact zone includes areas in Prince William County & Fairfax County located immediately adjacent to the Occoquan River from the Town of Occoquan to Belmont Bay,” the organization added.

The test is part of Fairfax Water’s safety measures for residents, visitors, and businesses along the Occoquan River shoreline. The impact area includes the Town of Occoquan, nearby marinas, Occoquan Regional Park, and river-adjacent homes and businesses.


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