County Tourism Director Ann Marie Maher says it starts with bringing more travel sports teams to the region.
“Our location is perfect because we’re right in the middle of the East Coast,” Maher said. “According to the Sports Travel and Events Association, 52% of all sports tourism happens in the southeastern region of the U.S.”
- The high percentage is attributed to the region’s temperate climate.
- Sports tourism is an $11.4 billion industry in the U.S.
“…If we could just get a piece of that, you know what would it mean to Prince William County residents?” Maher asked.
- It would mean more businesses for hotels and restaurants.
- Reduced travel to sporting events for area residents who already travel long distances to compete.
In order to help bring more sports tourism tournaments here, the county has added a full-time position that will focus on ensuring these events are held in the county – events such as the Tough Mudder run that was held in June at Silver Lake Park.
- The Tough Mudder run was not without controversy, but Maher holds that the event was positive for the county.
- The economic impact was $1.4 million for county businesses.
“It really put us on the map,” said Maher.
It was also a boon to Silver Lake Park. “We had many residents who came out and said I didn’t even know this park existed,” Maher added.
Travel sports facilities are often nothing more than large open tracts of land converted into fields.
- The ounty has a lot of already existing infrastructure they can utilize for such facilities, as well as plenty of opportunity for economic development because the county is still growing.
- Maher said this doesn’t mean they would want to use the Rural Crescent — an area of rural land between Quantico Marine Corps Base and Manassas National Battlefiled.
- The goal is to “create new economic development opportunities that preserve open space and preserve the rural area,” said Maher.
“We have 60 parks. We have one hundred and fifty-five miles of trails- there’s just so much available that’s really under-utilized in a lot of ways.” Maher said.
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Fredericksburg’s Winter Restaurant Week is happening now! From Friday, January 17, through Sunday, January 26, 2025, you can explore the city’s vibrant food scene and enjoy unique dishes at participating restaurants. It’s a perfect way to support local chefs and try something new while collecting stamps for the Restaurant Week Passport program.
Here’s how the passport works: Pick one up at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center, participating restaurants, or print it online. Collect stamps by dining at at least five participating restaurants to qualify for prize drawings. Drop off your completed passport at the Visitor Center by 4 p.m. on Tuesday, January 28, or mail it in.
Looking to add a little extra love and excitement to your life? Meet Luna and Roisin, a delightful duo of bonded Chihuahuas who are sure to win your heart!
Luna, the fabulous 7-year-old, and her younger sister, Roisin, a sprightly 5-year-old, are inseparable and ready to find their forever family. These two pint-sized pups come as a package deal, bringing twice the cuteness, cuddles, and companionship to your home.
Why settle for one when you can double the adorable? Luna and Roisin are the perfect pair for someone looking for love in a small package.
The dynamic duo is currently being cared for at the Prince William County Police Department’s Animal Services Bureau near Manassas.
Virginia National Bank is proud to serve the communities of Haymarket and Manassas with exceptional banking services tailored to your needs. The Haymarket branch is located at 15240 Washington Street, Haymarket, and can be reached at 703-335-7890. The branch operates Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The Manassas branch, conveniently located at 8091 Sudley Road, Manassas, can be contacted at 703-366-1607. This branch shares the same operating hours, with both branches closed on Saturdays.
Whether you’re looking for personalized banking services or financial solutions, Virginia National Bank is here to help.
Visit one of their convenient locations today!
Step into the life of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll with Riverside Theater’s electrifying production of “Heartbreak Hotel.” Featuring Elliott Litherland as “Old Elvis” and Luke Purcell as “Teen Elvis,” this high-energy show will have you singing, dancing, and cheering all night long.
In this episode, we sit down with the show’s stars to hear about their roles, what drew them to this production, and how they’re bringing Elvis Presley to life on stage. They share everything from personal connections to Elvis’s thrill of performing in this iconic musical!
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.
