MANASSAS, Va. — Discover Prince William & Manassas launched its Civil War Experience Pass this month, which allows visitors to immerse themselves in America’s history through interactive exhibits, tours and special programs.
The $15 pass saves visitors more than 50 percent off the combined entry admissions at six historic sites including Manassas National Battlefield Park, Manassas Museum, Ben Lomond Historic Site, Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, Brentsville Courthouse Historic Centre and Rippon Lodge. The pass is also good for 10 percent off at the Manassas Museum store.
“Current travel trends show that visitors are more likely to book discounted travel packages,” Discover Prince William & Manassas Executive Director Ann Marie Maher said. “By working with our partners, we were able to combine Prince William and Manassas Civil War sites to create this packaged experience.”
The Civil War Experience Pass, which is valid through December 2013, can be purchased at the Manassas Museum, Rippon Lodge, Brentsville Courthouse and Ben Lomond.
The pass was created in time for the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Second Manassas/Bull Run. The Manassas National Battlefield Park, Prince William County and the City of Manassas have planned dozens of events to commemorate the Aug. 1862 battle, which was one of the largest of the Civil War. Events will run from Aug. 24-Sept. 2. Some of the highlights include:
Old Town Manassas: Enjoy BBQ, bourbon and a bonfire Aug. 26 as Manassas officials mark Jackson’s raid on Union supplies at Manassas Junction. The commemoration begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes a National Park Service presentation, food and bourbon tastings for a small fee. After, watch as recreated Civil War box cars are set on fire.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park: Honor the soldiers who fought at the Battle of Kettle Run in August 1862 through an Aug. 25 luminary tour of the battlefield. During the $10 tour, which starts at 8 p.m., hear moving stories about the battle’s impact on soldiers and their families. Free tours will also be offered daily Aug. 25 and 26.
Manassas National Battlefield Park: Explore the battlefield and watch musketry, artillery firing and cavalry demonstrations and presentations of solider camp life. Activities begin at 11 a.m. Sept. 1 and 2. Forty-five minute tours about the opening engagement of Second Manassas will be offered throughout the day.
For a complete list of 150th commemoration events, visit manassasbullrun.com.
Recent Stories
This week, we’re thrilled to host Dr. Babur Lateef, Chairman of the Prince William County School Board, and Jennifer Wall, Gainesville District Representative, for an engaging discussion on the state of education in Prince William County on the next Potomac Local News Podcast.
Rania Lateef, a senior at Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School and the Governor’s School @ Innovation Park, daughter of Prince William School Board Chairman Babur Lateef, has been named one of 40 finalists in the prestigious 2025 Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS). Selected from nearly 2,500 applicants nationwide, Rania is recognized for her groundbreaking research on the effects of artificial light and circadian disruption on biobehavioral systems in Drosophila melanogaster. Her work highlights the impact of sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances on physical and mental health.
Rania credited her success to the supportive academic community of Prince William County Public Schools, her teachers Stephanie Brown and Dr. Alexis Patanarut, and her unique opportunities at GS@IP. As a finalist, she has already won $27,000 and will compete for additional awards totaling over $1.8 million during a week-long event in Washington, D.C., in March 2025. Rania’s journey emphasizes the power of passion and commitment in achieving meaningful scientific discoveries.
The Woodbridge District invites residents to join a Community Update Town Hall Meeting hosted by Supervisor Margaret Angela Franklin. This virtual event offers an opportunity for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and initiatives in the community.
Details of the Town Hall:
Date: January 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Virtual (via Zoom)
Residents can participate in the meeting by joining the Zoom session.
On January 24, 2025, at 12:25 a.m., Sergeant E.E. West responded to a single-vehicle crash at the McDonald’s on Wonder Road. An intoxicated driver, identified as Juan Gomez Alvarez, 38, of North Carolina, entered the drive-thru at a high rate of speed, struck a sign, and came to rest at an awkward angle, blocking the lane.
Gomez Alvarez displayed red, glassy eyes and had a strong odor of alcohol. The investigation revealed that he had been convicted of DUI in New York just the previous day, making this his second offense in five years. He was charged with DUI second offense, refusal, and destruction of property and was taken to Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.
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.
