Parks and Rec

Prince William

Prince William County Embraces America’s 250th Anniversary with Education, Exhibits, and Lasting Community Connections

By Potomac Local News
Williams Ordinary in Dumfries

Prince William County is deeply immersed in commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, blending local Revolutionary War history with robust educational outreach, research, exhibits, and public installations that connect residents—especially young people—to the nation’s founding story.

On June 9, 2026, Paige Gibbons Backus, Historic Site Manager with the county’s Office of Historic Preservation (part of the Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism), presented an overview of the Prince William County VA 250 efforts to the Board of Supervisors. The local commission, established in 2023, coordinates with state and national America 250 initiatives while emphasizing hyperlocal stories of patriots, loyalists, free and enslaved residents, and everyday contributions from Prince William’s past.

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Features

Free Flag Day Entry at Prince William Forest Park

By Potomac Local News

“The entrance fees are free today at Prince William Forest Park and other national parks across the country,” the park announced on Flag Day. “Flag Day commemorates the day in 1777 when the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the design of the stars and stripes as the United States flag.”

Although the holiday itself wasn’t officially designated until 1949, visitors can enjoy the patriotic celebration with waived fees at the park today.

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Features

Pools Open This Weekend in Prince William and Fredericksburg

By Potomac Local News

“Prince William County Parks & Recreation pools and waterparks are open THIS WEEKEND,” Prince William County Parks & Recreation reported. “Grab your sunglasses, swimsuit and sunscreen and head on down to your favorite pool or waterpark for a splish-splashing good time starting this weekend.”

“The Pool is OPEN! Summer fun starts now at the Doris E. Buffett Pool,” Fredericksburg parks officials announced. “Grab your sunscreen, bring your friends, and dive into a season full of splashes, sunshine, and poolside memories.”

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Features

Rain Cancels Pool Openings Across Region

By Potomac Local News

Several local swimming pools remained closed this weekend as rain and cool temperatures washed out the start of the summer season. Prince William County announced Saturday evening that all outdoor pools and water parks would remain closed on Sunday, May 24, due to inclement weather.

In Manassas Park, officials canceled the Soft Opening for Signal Bay Waterpark on Friday night and kept the facility closed on Sunday because temperatures stayed below 70 degrees with ongoing rain. The city expressed disappointment after months of preparation and encouraged residents to sign up for text alerts for future updates.

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Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg City Council Weighs ‘Penny’ Tax Increase for Safety Cameras in Parks and Trails

By Potomac Local News

Fredericksburg City Council members discussed installing safety cameras in city parks and along trails during a recent budget work session, considering a small “penny” increase in the real estate tax rate to help fund the initiative.

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Stafford

Stafford Supervisors Advance Land Conservation Efforts with PDR Program Update and New Tank Creek Easement

By Uriah Kiser
Widewater State Park in Stafford County. [Photo: Virginia State Parks]

The Stafford County Board of Supervisors on March 17 received an update on its long-running Purchase of Development Rights program and unanimously approved a resolution accepting a co-holder open space easement on a forested preserve in the Widewater area, actions aimed at protecting rural lands and waterways.

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Features

Echoes of Courage: The Rowser Building and the Women Who Lit the Path to Freedom in Stafford County

By Uriah Kiser

Stafford County Parks and Recreation is highlighting stories rooted in the county’s history, with a focus this month on the Rowser Building and the Path to African American Mural.

The Rowser Building, built in 1939 as Stafford Training School, was the only facility in the county where Black students could pursue education beyond the seventh grade during segregation. Local African American families helped fund the land purchase, and the school served students. Over the decades, it evolved into H.H. Poole Junior High and later H.H. Poole High School. In 1976, it was renamed to honor Ella Rowser, an educator who served as a teacher, guidance counselor, and principal.

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Features

New Signs Point Way to Chopawamsic Backcountry Gem in Prince William Forest Park

By Uriah Kiser

Drivers along Joplin Road (VA Route 619) next to Prince William Forest Park may have noticed them recently: a few new signs directing visitors straight to the parking lot for the Chopawamsic Backcountry Area.

These fresh markers are shining a spotlight on a hidden gem tucked within one of Northern Virginia’s most treasured outdoor destinations. For those who love getting away from it all without traveling far, the improved visibility makes this special section easier than ever to find and explore.

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Features

Egg Hunts, Reptiles and Free Movies: Stafford Parks’ Spring Lineup

By Uriah Kiser

Stafford Parks and Recreation is gearing up for a fun-filled spring with a lineup of family-friendly special events designed to entertain kids and parents alike. From egg hunts to reptile encounters and sensory-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone in the coming weeks.

Families looking for engaging ways to spend time together should mark their calendars and register soon—these popular programs tend to fill up quickly.

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Fredericksburg

Rubber Duck Race Revival Announced for Fredericksburg; Vote on Event Name

By Potomac Local News
Overlooking Fredericksburg, the Chatham Bridge, and the Rappahannock River.

Fredericksburg rubber duck races will return after a hiatus. The City of Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events, and Friends of the Rappahannock announced the event revival.

Proceeds will be divided between Friends of the Rappahannock, which supports river conservation, and the FUNd Parks Fund, which supports local parks and recreation.

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