Neabsco Regional Park is set to feature another recreational amenity, a new boat launch, by the New Year.
Neabsco Regional Park is a scenic natural area in Prince William County. It includes a 14-mile, $3 million boardwalk through wetlands, is part of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and is rich with opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and learning about local history.
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Press release:
Prince William County Parks and Recreation is hosting its 3rd annual Holiday Walk of Lights at Neabsco Regional Park. The FREE lights display begins Friday, December 6. New this year: in addition to the dazzling light display, visitors can experience the magic of the holiday season with visits from holiday characters, joyful holiday music sung by carolers and an unforgettable holiday shopping experience on select nights. A special sensory-friendly night will be held on Tuesday, December 10. All dates/times and important parking information can be found at pwcva.gov.
Admission is free for this family-friendly event. All are invited to enjoy the beautiful hand-crafted light displays that will light up the park!
Visitors are encouraged to sign up for text alerts by texting the word “lights” to 703-382-6716 to stay connected with latest event information.
2024 Hours of Operation
Friday, Dec 6, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters, Carolers
Saturday, Dec 7, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market
Sunday, Dec 8, 5:30-9:00 pm
Tuesday, Dec 10, (Sensory Friendly Event only*), 5:30-8:00 pm – Holiday Characters, Carolers
Friday, Dec 13, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters
Saturday, Dec 14, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market
Sunday, Dec 15, 5:30-9:00 pm
Wednesday, Dec 18, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters
Thursday, Dec 19, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market
Friday, Dec 20, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Characters
Saturday, Dec 21, 5:30-9:00 pm – Holiday Market
Sunday, Dec 22, 5:30-9:00 pm
Friday, Dec 27, 5:30 pm-9:00 pm – Holiday Market & Characters
Location
15125 Blackburn Road
Woodbridge, VA 22191
Free Parking Information
Shuttle buses will pick up and drop off at Neabsco Regional Park from the following lots:
15101 Blackburn Rd.
Woodbridge, VA 22191
Porter Traditional School (Unavailable December 6th)
15311 Forest Grove Dr.
Woodbridge, VA 22191
Featherstone Elementary SchoolÂ
14805 Blackburn Rd.
Woodbridge, VA 22191
Important Parking Information
Parking at Neabsco Regional Park is reserved for those with a disabled placard or license plate ONLY. All others should park at the designated free parking locations.
No Parking at Rippon Lodge Historic Site
Free Shuttle Bus Available (No Animals Allowed)
A shuttle bus will be running continuously every 7 minutes to pick up and bring visitors to and from from the designated parking lots. The last shuttle picks up at 8:35 p.m., the lights turn off at 9 p.m. Each shuttle ride is approximately 2-3 minutes long.
Where to Park When Bringing Pets
For visitors who would like to bring their dog(s) to Holiday Walk of Lights, there are two options for parking:
- Park & Walk: Park at Porter Traditional School and walk to the Neabsco Creek Boardwalk using the sidewalk/crosswalk at Rippon Blvd & Blackburn Rd. (see map) (Unavailable on 12/6)
- Park & Ride the Cool Bus: Park at the small parking lot at Rippon Middle School adjacent to the ball field and ride the “Cool Bus”. Make sure to ride the “Cool Bus” back with your pet.
Pet Rules
- All pets must be on a leash.
- Please pickup after your pet (please bring your own waste disposal bags)
Food & Beverage
Concessions will be available onsite.
Restrooms
Portable restrooms will be available onsite.
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has lifted the harmful algae bloom (HAB) advisory for Lake Anna due to the end of the recreational season. HABs have affected various branches of Lake Anna since June, with advisories expanded in July to include additional areas. Recent samples from mid-October showed acceptable bacteria levels, meeting the criteria to lift the advisory, despite earlier September samples showing unsafe levels.
The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes VDH and other state agencies, has suspended response sampling for the season. Although HABs may persist in some areas, the public is advised to avoid discolored or scummy water as it could contain toxins. Depending on weather conditions, the Task Force plans to resume monitoring in May 2025.
Press release: Effective immediately, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is lifting the harmful algae bloom (HAB) advisory for Lake Anna due to the end of the recreational season. The Upper North Anna Branches has experienced a HAB since June. In July, the advisory was extended to include the Middle North Anna Branch and the Upper and Middle Pamunkey Branches and Terry’s Run.
Results of samples collected September 18 and October 15 for Upper and Middle Pamunkey Branch indicated potentially toxic cyanobacteria were at acceptable levels allowing the advisory to be lifted.To lift advisories, VDH needs two acceptable samples collected at least 10 days apart. While the October 15 sample results from the Upper and Middle Pamunkey branches and Terry’s Run were at acceptable levels, the September 18 sample results were at unsafe levels of cyanobacteria. No additional sampling is planned.
The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force suspends response sampling and any active HAB advisories at the end of October each year when the recreational (swimming) season concludes and temperatures begin cooling in natural waters.
Algae blooms, which are still present in November in areas of a waterbody, may persist into late fall and possibly winter months. The public should avoid discolored water or scums that are green or bluish-green because they are more likely to contain toxins.
The Virginia Harmful Algal Bloom Task Force, which includes the VDH, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, and the Old Dominion University Phytoplankton Laboratory, will resume response efforts in May 2025, weather permitting.For more information visit www.SwimHealthyVA.com.
These upgrades aim to improve facilities and enhance the guest experience, though park officials urge visitors to check specific park web pages for the most up-to-date information on closures and project timelines.
“These renovations are key to the longevity of our parks,” said Virginia State Parks Director Melissa Baker. “It takes time to upgrade the facilities and make each location more enjoyable for all guests. We look forward to sharing the upgraded cabins and campgrounds when the projects are completed.”
Closures at Westmoreland State Park
Westmoreland State Park, located closest to the Potomac Local region, will be significantly affected. Starting November 1, 2024, all cabins and camping cabins will be closed for renovations, with the closures expected to last through October 2026. The park itself will remain open, and day-use activities will continue as usual, but overnight stays in cabins will be unavailable during the renovation period.
Full List of Affected Parks and Dates
- First Landing State Park: All cabins closed from Nov. 1, 2024, through October 2026.
- Westmoreland State Park: All cabins and camping cabins closed from Nov. 1, 2024, through October 2026.
- Claytor Lake State Park: Campgrounds B and C closed from Nov. 1, 2024, through the 2025 season.
- Fairy Stone State Park: The main campground closed from Dec. 2024 through Feb. 28, 2026. Equestrian campground unaffected, but amenities limited.
- Grayson Highlands State Park: Hickory Ridge Campground, including campsites, yurts, and bunkhouse, closed from Nov. 2024 through April 2026. Chestnut Hollow Equestrian Campground remains open for the 2025 season.
- Bear Creek Lake State Park: Black Oak and Chestnut Campgrounds closed from Oct. 7, 2024, through May 2026. Acorn Camping Loop remains open through Dec. 1, 2024, for tents and small campers under 20 feet.
- Douthat State Park: Douthat Lodge area closed to vehicles until further notice; pedestrian access via Guest Lodge Trail remains.
Despite these closures, daily park operations will continue without interruption, allowing visitors to enjoy trails, picnic areas, and other park features.
For more details and to stay informed about renovation updates, visit the Virginia State Parks website or the individual park pages.
On Saturday, October 18, 2024, a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Annaburg Manor marked the completion of crucial stabilization work on the historic property. The event attracted history enthusiasts, local officials, and community members eager to see the progress made on the beloved 19th-century home.
In addition to the ribbon cutting, attendees were treated to the manor’s first-ever art show featuring local artists.
Manassas acquired Annaburg Manor in 2019 to preserve its historical significance while transforming the grounds into a public park. Originally constructed in 1892 by Robert Portner, a Prussian-born entrepreneur and brewer, the home served as a summer retreat and gathering space for the community. The property later became a nursing facility before being purchased by the city.
The restoration effort, which has thus far cost $4.4 million, including the purchase price, focused on essential repairs and upgrades. Highlights of the renovations include a new slate roof, fresh paint, refinished wood floors, new doors and windows, ADA-compliant accessibility features, and enhanced landscaping. The work also included the installation of new lighting fixtures, offering a glimpse of the manor’s original charm and grandeur. Additionally, archeologists uncovered the foundation of the Portner Tower, a structure that predates the home.
Annaburg Park, located at 9201 Maple St., is now an important community asset, providing residents with another green space in the heart of Manassas. The restoration has renewed interest in the property and will serve as a cultural and recreational hub for years.
The annual Art and Wine Festival will be held at Caledon State Park on November 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and November 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
This family-friendly event features local art, wine tastings, live music, and food trucks. Attendees can enjoy free wagon rides, archery, and camping programs. Tickets are $25 online or $30 at the gate, with free admission for children and non-tasters. Pets are welcome but must be leashed. The festival will proceed rain or shine.
Press release:
The annual Art and Wine Festival will take place over two days at Caledon State Park on Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The festival is an annual crowd pleaser with family-friendly activities and music for all to enjoy. There will be tastings available from local wineries, delicious foods available for purchase from local food trucks and vendors along with beautiful art on display from artists.
“Experience the beauty of fall along with the spectacular variety of local art, flavorful wine and rhythmic music,” said Caledon State Park Manager Nina Cox. “This event is sponsored by our Friends Group, and we are so grateful for everything they do for our park. We hope you come out and celebrate fall with us.”
The park will be offering free wagon rides several times during both days as well as archery and camping programs led by the “Let’s Go” staff.
Tickets are required for each day and are available online at Zeffy for $25 or guests can pay $30 at the gate. Non-tasters and children enjoy free admission.
The Art and Wine Festival is a pet-friendly event. All pets must be supervised and kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Pet owners must clean up after their pets.
This event will be held rain or shine.
For more information, visit the Caledon State Park website.
Dear Readers,
We are excited to present to you the second installment of our History and Heritage Feature Series, sponsored by Sentara. This special series celebrates the rich cultural heritage and history of Prince William County, Stafford County, Manassas, Manassas Park, and Fredericksburg.
We will delve into the historical events, landmarks, and personal stories that have shaped our communities. From in-depth articles on significant historical milestones to spotlights on notable landmarks and engaging oral histories from long-time residents, our series aims to connect you with the past in a meaningful and enlightening way.
We are proud to partner with Sentara, a name synonymous with community involvement and support. Sentara’s sponsorship helps make this series possible, allowing us to bring these important stories to you while highlighting their commitment to preserving our local history.
Join us as we explore the places, events, and people that tell the story of our region’s past. Understanding our history is crucial to building a better future and maintaining the rich traditions that define us.
Thank you for your continued support of local journalism.
Uriah Kiser
Founder & Publisher
Potomac Local News
Annaburg Manor Unveils First Phase of Renovations, Opens to Public
This Saturday, the City of Manassas will celebrate the ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Annaburg Manor, a historic estate built in 1892 by the Portner family. Once a nursing home and hospital, the manor was purchased by the city in 2019 with the vision of transforming it into a public park. After years of renovations, the first phase of the project is complete, opening the grounds to the public.
Mary Helen Dellinger, Curator at the Manassas Museum, spoke about the challenges the city faced while restoring the manor. “The single biggest challenge for us was that there were no architectural plans showing what the building looked like before. We don’t know what the inside of it looked like during Portner’s time; we only have pictures of the outside,” Dellinger explained. Changes made by previous owners complicated efforts to determine which parts of the house were original and which were later additions. To aid the process, the city worked with Portner’s descendants and used old photographs.
The restoration of Annaburg Manor was more of a renovation than a true historical restoration, according to Dellinger. “The home was in rough shape. There was mold, debris, and old systems that needed to be replaced,” she said. While they chose not to fully restore the home to its original 1892 condition, the team aimed to stay as faithful as possible to its historic design.
One notable feature of the renovation is the addition of a fountain to the manor’s grounds. While the original fountain was custom-cast and could not be replicated, a new fountain was installed that pays homage to the original water feature. “It’s not the exact sculpture that was there, but I think it’ll make the house look nice and is a nod to the original fountain,” Dellinger noted.
Beyond the structural renovations, the project aims to enhance the community’s green spaces. “One of the things we heard from the community was that there was nowhere in that area of town that was walkable,” Dellinger shared. Annaburg Manor is expected to provide much-needed green space where locals can relax and enjoy nature.
Looking ahead, there are plans for further development. While the public will initially only be able to tour the grounds, Dellinger hinted at future events and rental opportunities. “You’ll be able to rent the space for any kind of event,” she said, adding that the manor’s spacious porch would make it a picturesque wedding venue, with meetings and other gatherings possible inside the house.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 1:30 p.m. Saturday, October 19, at 9201 Maple Street, Manassas.
Join Stafford County Parks Recreation Facilities and Tourism for a day full of autumn fun and festivities at our annual Fall Family Festival.
During the Tuesday, Oct. 1, Stafford County Board of Supervisors meeting, Parks, Recreation, Facilities, and Tourism Director Brian Southall, we provided details of the increase and the facility's current state. "We’ve been leasing parts of the facility since the mid-'90s. The entire lease for the year is $177,000," Southall said. He explained that the county’s gymnastics program, which serves over 600 children weekly, has outgrown the 25,600-square-foot space, noting, "We’ve outgrown it."
The proposed rent hike prompted a lively discussion among board members, with some raising concerns about continuing to invest in an aging facility. Garrisonville District Supervisor Dr. Pamela Yeung emphasized the need for a more long-term solution. "We need to ask ourselves whether we should continue to invest in this location or seek a more suitable and permanent space for our children," Yeung said. She pointed out that neighboring Prince William County is debating a state-of-the-art sports complex in Woodbridge that, if built, would leave Stafford County behind in providing adequate facilities for its residents.
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