QUANTICO, Va. — A live band playing the music in an open park is one of the definite sounds of summertime.
Country Singer Tyler Toliver kicked off the Cowles Auto 2014 Salute to Our Troops Music Series in Raftelis Potomac River Park located at 408 River Road in Quantico on Saturday. More than 150 people  packed the park with blankets and chairs to hear Toliver and his band.
In the park, there were barbecue and ice cream vendors, and a beer garden was set up for all ages around the live music stage.
The music stopped just before 9 p.m. and Quantico Mayor Kevin Brown took the stage and welcomed everyone. With the Quantico Honor Guard behind him,he thanked everyone for coming to the park for the music and what appears to be a new Memorial Day tradition in the town — a spectacular fire works show made possible by Quantico Tactical.
For at least 20 minutes, fireworks were lunched over Hospital Point and they illuminated the sky. Some of them exploded bright white with embers that trickled back down to earth to resemble a weeping willow tree, while others were bursting with color.
As I sat on the ground with my wife next to the Potomac River, our heads tilted toward the sky, the sound of small children oohing and ahhing over the light show was made our experience worth the trip. And, let’s face it, what could be more patriotic than our community coming together to honor our military with a fireworks show at the crossroads of the Marine Corps?
I’ve have never seen so many visitors in the Town of Quantico as I did Saturday night. Many families were strolling Potomac Avenue with their children out enjoying an evening of warm spring weather, puffy clouds, and a light river breeze. Stores were open and people were sitting at sidewalk tables eating and drinking.
In the newly improved Reftelis park, new paved walking paths invite people to come play near the river shore. It was a great place to hold an event like this.
For so many in our area, for so long, the tradition has been to get out of town on Memorial Day weekend. In recent years, the Rolling Thunder rally that attracts thousands of bikers to the region has become a local tradition.
Now, thanks to the work of those who put on this community celebration in Quantico, we can now add fireworks on the Potomac River to that growing list of local Memorial Day weekend traditions.
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Award-winning brand Always Flavored is relocating across the street from 610 to 619 Caroline St., with plans to open by March 31, 2025. The move allows for an expanded selection of hot sauces, seasonings, and gourmet products, plus tastings and events.
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Ritabeata’s Mild Sauce – 2nd place (International Flavor Awards)
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A grand opening celebration is planned.
In this Potomac Local News Podcast episode, host Uriah Kiser sits down with Craig Wade, President of the Prince William Association of Realtors, and Matthew Rathbun, President-Elect of the Fredericksburg Area Association of Realtors. They discuss the latest trends in the local real estate market, the impact of rising interest rates, and the challenges first-time homebuyers face in Northern Virginia.
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Looking for a furry friend who can steal your heart? Look no further than Chloe, the 5-year-old Maremma Sheepdog, waiting for her forever home at the Prince William County Animal Shelter.
Chloe isn’t just any dog—she’s an Italian superstar in livestock protection, with a personality as impressive as her heritage. This lovable lady may have a calm and gentle demeanor, but don’t let her laid-back attitude fool you—she’s a heart-stealer extraordinaire!
Chloe is ready to charm her way into your home, and she’s patiently waiting for someone special to give her the love she deserves. Are you ready to make room for Chloe in your life?
Visit the Prince William County Animal Shelter today to meet Chloe and other wonderful animals available for adoption. For more information or to contact the shelter, visit www.pwcva.gov/department/animal-services. Don’t wait—come see Chloe today, and you might just find your new best friend!
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
