The Virginia Tourism Corporation has released the 2017 state and local economic impact data. It is another record year for Virginia with expenditures reaching $25 billion supporting 230,000 jobs, $5.9 billion in salaries & wages and $1.7 billion in state & local taxes.
All Virginia localities saw an increase in travel expenditures in 2017 compared to previous year. The travel industry in the Commonwealth has continued to grow eight years in a row. Travel expenditures increased at a compound annual growth rate of 3.9% since 2010.
In Manassas tourism-related expenditures rose 4.5% to $71,114,795. Annual payroll rose 4.7% to $12,124,407. Employment rose 1.5% to 589 and local tax receipts rose 2.7% to $1,851,267.
Tourism is an important part of the local economy in many communities and especially in the City of Manassas. Few localities in the nation experienced such seminal events as Manassas did during the Civil War. The First and Second Battles of Manassas helped define our City’s place in history and historical-based tourism is a key market for the City. The Manassas National Battlefield Park, Liberia Plantation and Manassas Museum serve as key attractions for visitors.
However, the City’s appeal to visitors now also includes the charm of its Historic Downtown (a Virginia Main Street community), its specialty shopping and dining, and special events. Special events and activities alone account for 300,000 annual visitors to Downtown. In addition to the jobs it creates and the revenue it generates, visitors may be prospective business owners or residents who become attracted to a community because of its tourism vibrancy. Tourism is economic development.
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Since August 2024, Potomac Local News has seen significant growth in our email newsletter readership, with our audience expanding from 14,747 subscribers in August to 18,252 subscribers in February 2025.
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Phil was welcomed with chants of “Phil, Phil, Phil,” and pulled from a hatch on his tree stump shortly after sunrise before a member of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club read from a scroll in which he boasted: “Only I know — you can’t trust A.I.”
At approximately 2:45 P.M. on Saturday, February 1st, units with Stafford County Fire and Rescue (SCFR) responded to a reported structure fire in the 100 block of Aquia Creek Road, near Aquia Creek. Callers reported a neighboring residence on fire, and first arriving units marked the scene less than 10 minutes later and confirmed fire and smoke coming from the rear and roof of a single-family residence.
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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.
