Entertainment

Top 5 Reasons to Visit the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market

Top 5 Reasons to Visit the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market
Posted on by Editor

Since 1988, the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market has been a staple of our community. Growing from the seed of an idea and just a handful of vendors, it’s blossomed into two markets with more than 80 vendors. The City of Manassas Farmer’s Market was voted Northern Virginia’s Best Farmer’s Market in 2020 by Virginia Living Magazine —just one of its many awards.

Though the Farmer’s Markets are open year-round, they’re now in Peak Season Market mode where they become bountiful with the new year’s harvests. New plants, flowers, herbs, vegetables, and fruits show up as they come in season.

But farmer’s markets aren’t just places to pick up veggies, flowers, and the occasional giant pretzel. Here are five of the biggest ways the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market benefits all of us at Arcadia Run, as well as our entire Manassas community:

1. Stimulate the local economy

A University of California study found that those selling directly to consumers (you) at farmer’s markets generate twice as much local economic activity per dollar of sales when compared to non-direct sellers. You’re not paying for things that are created states or countries away; you’re buying good directly from local farmers, artists, and artisans. An added benefit of supporting local producers is they actually create more local jobs.

2. Preserve local farmland and rural livelihoods

Farming and prospering in a rural environment have never been easy. As jobs and life moves evermore tech-based, a rural life is an even more difficult proposition. From 1992-2007, for example, 21% of mid-sized farms in the U.S. ceased operations. But farmer’s markets don’t just give established farmers a place to sell their wares, they also provide a space and platform for new farmers to build momentum with their own rural businesses. By shopping at the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market, you directly support all your local rural entrepreneurs.

3. Reduce pollution

When you go to a store, the food you purchase travels from the producer through many delivery points before finally appearing on the shelf. This product journey averages an estimated 1,500 miles. But farmer’s markets deliver straight to you, avoiding the need for all that additional travel. This results in a lot less pollution and waste. Yup, that tomato you get from a farmer’s market doesn’t just taste better, but it’s also healthier for you and the planet!

4.Access fresh all-natural foods easier

The term is food desert: a place where it’s difficult to get fresh foods. They exist in parts of urban and suburban communities, and greatly affect the wellbeing of anyone in the desert. Farmer’s markets are a great solution, as straight-from-the-farm food is plentiful. Plus, the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market participates in the SNAP program, making fresh and healthy food even easier for everyone. You can learn more about the SNAP program by emailing Melissa Williams (who also gave us a little more info for this blog post).

5. Explore your community and expand your palate

Farmer’s markets are places where communities gather. As such, you can meet a huge cross-section of Manassas all in one place. Make friends with people from across the county, chat with farmers and artisans from all around the area, and marvel at the work of artists from right next door. You’ll also get to taste all the flavors and tastes that make Manassas so delicious: Peruvian, West-African, Argentinian, Spanish, and more! By exploring the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market, you grow closer to your entire community.

Okay, so now you know some of the great benefits that farmer’s markets bring, but you’re still a little curious as to what to expect. Here are a few highlights of things you can find at the City of Manassas Farmer’s Market:

  • Fresh produce, meats, and eggs from nearby farms
  • Locally made honey and other bee products from apiaries in Stafford County
  • Wine straight from the vineyards and craft brews from small breweries all over Manassas
  • Hand-made gourmet baked goods, vegan chocolates, melt-in-your-mouth fudge, and cinnamon buns bigger than your hand
  • Artisanal clothing, art, and jewelry
  • Wood crafts and kitchen accessories
  • And all sorts of fun things for your home, your kids, and your pets

The City of Manassas Farmer’s Market can be found on Thursdays at the Harris Pavilion in Historic Downtown Manassas, and Saturdays at the Prince William Commuter Car Park. The hours for both markets are 8 am to 1 pm., with Peak Season Markets at both locations running until mid-November.

At Arcadia Run, you’re less than a 15-minute drive from both Farmer’s Market locations. As convenient as a trip to a regular supermarket, the Farmer’s Markets will provide you with the freshest local produce, meats, eggs, spices, and other ingredients. And then you can bring all that deliciousness home to your large Arcadia Run kitchen and create some truly scrumptious (and healthy!) works of culinary perfection. Bon appétit!

The Manassas Railway Festival is Coming Down the Line

The Manassas Railway Festival is Coming Down the Line
Posted on by Editor

There would be no Manassas if it wasn’t for the railroad.

What started as just a place where railroads met grew into the wonderful town we know and love today.

Every year, we salute the history of the railroads and their importance to Manassas with a celebration of history and ingenuity, coupled with memorabilia, special vendors, and fun live performances.

That’s why we’re so excited for the 26th Annual Manassas Heritage Railway Festival on June 5: one of our favorite Manassas, VA events!

Let’s learn a little more about the history of the railroad in Manassas and a little more about what you can expect at the festival.

Manassas Comes to the Railroad

What we know as Manassas started as Manassas Junction: a crossroads with railroad tracks that led to Richmond, the Shenandoah Valley, and Washington, D.C. It was where the Orange and Alexandria Railroad (O&A) and the Manassas Gap Railroad (MGRR) met.

The O&A railroad stretched in many directions, also connecting to the Virginia Central and Virginia & Tennessee Railroads. Stops along the O&A included: Alexandria, Springfield, Fairfax, Culpeper, Orange, and traveled on Virginia Central tracks all the way to Charlottesville and Lynchburg.

The MGRR began construction in 1851, and by 1859, it stretched through Manassas Gap and into the Shenandoah Valley. It was originally planned to extend through Loudon County, too, but the Civil War got in the way and construction ceased.

During the Civil War, the ability to transport troops, weapons, and meat along these supply lines was invaluable. In fact, the MGRR became the first American railroad to move troops into battle.

It makes sense, then, that the First and Second Battles of Bull Run took place nearby, as Manassas Junction was so strategically important! And while Confederate forces won both battles, Manassas Junction remained mostly under Union control for the duration of the war.

But these railroads didn’t just fade after the war. Before and after, they moved goods and supplies both from and to local farmers and businesses faster and for far less money than any other transportation method. Railroads helped the area prosper, and since so many trains were passing through Manassas Junction, eventually a town formed.

And so, we celebrate the importance of the railroads to Manassas with this annual event.

Things to Find at the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival

Called “Train Day” by us locals, the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival is full of all sort of sights and sounds to experience. Throughout the day, live performances will fill the air, complementing the various whistles of visiting trains.

And you will see trains of all shapes and sizes. Commuter and freight trains stop by for this glorious event, as do (schedules permitting) more classic trains. Plus, model railroads are on display letting your imaginations explore even more tracks and vistas.

But a festival isn’t complete without things to buy and stuff to eat, and the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival is no exception. Train memorabilia vendors will be everywhere, ready to help you bring a little of the festival home with you. Because nothing is more fun that the drive home when you’re wearing your very own engineer’s cap!

At Arcadia Run, you’re always close to something amazing because history abounds in every direction. Old Town Manassas is just 14 minutes away, and Bull Run Regional Park (where those battles mentioned above took place) is less than 10 miles away. Living at Arcadia Run puts you in the middle of everything, which is why living here is so much fun.

Coming June 5, in the heart of Old Town Manassas, VA, enjoy an event like no other. For more information on the 26th Annual Manassas Heritage Railway Festival, click here.

Spring 2018 Events to Look Forward to in Manassas

Spring 2018 Events to Look Forward to in Manassas
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One of the many benefits of living close to a place like Historic Downtown Manassas, is that there is never a shortage of awesome events throughout all four seasons of the year! Just minutes from Arcadia Run, take a look below at all of the events you can look forward to this spring season:

 

Historic Manassas Spring Restaurant Week – March 19th to 25th

Take advantage of some great offers at your favorite local Manassas restaurants including Monza, Carmello’s, Zandra’s Taqueria and more! Offers include 2 for $25 and 3 for $35. Click here for more information and kick off the spring season with tasty deals.

 

Hop Around Downtown – March 25th to March 31st

If you’re looking to go on a shopping spree soon, look no further than Downtown Manassas during the Hop Around event. With each purchase at a participating store, you will have a chance to win a prize!

 

Mariachis Tequileria Kegs ‘n Eggs Craft Beer Fiesta – March 31

With over 30 beers to sample, live music for your dancing pleasure, awesome food, and even an “adult egg hunt”, this is an event you don’t want to miss if you are a fan of craft beer!

 

April Showers Bridal Show – April 8th

If you are one of those lucky someones getting ready for your wedding day, be sure to attend the April Showers Bridal Show! See gorgeous wedding dresses up close and personal, learn some pro tips from professionals in the industry, and enjoy hors d’oeuvres.

 

12th Annual Live Well Festival – April 21st

You’ve promised yourself that this was going to be the year you took care of your health, and what better way to kick it off than with this annual festival? With plenty of health-centered activities, vendors, and more, in addition to 5k, 10k, and 1 mile runs, be sure to stop by!

 

10th Annual Band Festival – April 22nd

For the tenth year in a row, join the rest of the music lovers in Manassas by heading on over to the Harris Pavilion for a day filled with live performances from some of your favorite local bands!

 

Community Reading Festival – April 28th

This family friendly event comes to the heart of Manassas for a great time focused on education. Visit the Harris Pavilion for free books, giveaways, a variety of crafts, and live music playing through the air.

Fall Festivals for the Whole Family in Manassas, VA

Fall Festivals for the Whole Family in Manassas, VA
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The days are getting shorter and the leaves are changing colors…it must be fall at Arcadia Run! Now that classes have started and the kids are back in school, it’s time to think of some fun activities to get you through those tough first few weeks. Luckily, Arcadia Run is just minutes from some of the best fall events and activities in the area! Check out some of our top picks for local events happening this fall near Arcadia Run.

 

2017 Manassas Latino Festival– September 24, Harris Pavilion, Manassas

Discover the rich culture of the area’s Latin American communities at the Manassas Latino Festival! The festival will highlight food, music, and art, and will even have activities for kids, such as piñatas! Eat delicious food and listen to live entertainment all afternoon at this free event in Old Town Manassas.

 

Manassas Steins, Wines & Spirits Festival– September 30, Harris Pavilion, Manassas

Rain or shine, its time for a glass of wine! Or craft beer, or local distilled spirits…the choice is yours at the Manassas Steins, Wines, and Spirits Festival. Listen to live music while discovering your new favorite local brew or wine. This year is sure to be one for the books, as the event is introducing the Oyster Tent, with delicious freshly shucked oysters.

 

35th Annual Manassas Fall Jubilee– October 7, Manassas

Whether you’re going for the first time this year or have been going for years, the Fall Jubilee is a Manassas staple! There’s fun for both kids and adults with over 100 crafter and community booths, live music and entertainment, AND it’s free. For the competitive souls out there, not only is there a pumpkin pie baking contest, but there is a pumpkin pie eating contest. If you’re over 21, be sure to check out the Beer & Wine Garden on the lawn for local beer and wine samplings.

 

Bad Wolf Brewing 4th Annual Fall Festival– October 7, Manassas

Kick off pumpkin beer season with a trip to Bad Wolf Brewing’s 4th Annual Fall Festival! With live music, food trucks, local vendors, and of course plenty of beer, you won’t want to miss this party. Even better, Bad Wolf will be releasing the coveted BadWolf Pumpkin Saison and a specialty cask just for the event. Kids are also welcome, so get your tickets now.

 

WMZQ Fall Fest– October 7, Jiffy Lube Live

You’ll be able to die a happy man (or woman) after seeing Thomas Rhett at WMZQ Fall Fest! Jam along to all of Thomas Rhett’s hits, plus hear music from opening acts Dan + Shay, and Walker Hayes. Jiffy Lube Live is right down the road from Arcadia Run, making it easy to Uber home after a day of tailgating.

 

Which event are you looking forward to this fall? Check out everything Arcadia Run has to offer by visiting us online at arcadiarun.com.

 

 

 

 

Manassas Events to Attend Before Summer Ends!

Manassas Events to Attend Before Summer Ends!
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Summer is quickly coming to a close and there is no better time to take advantage of the amazing weather and summer events right here in Manassas! While you’re hanging out downtown, you can also enjoy a local restaurant and do a little bit of back to school shopping! Just a few miles from Arcadia Run, Downtown Manassas is the place to be seen, so check out the remaining summer events happening soon!

 

Friday Family Movie Night

August 18th – Storks at Harris Pavilion

The last Family Movie Night this summer is sure to be one of the best! If you’re looking for something to do with the kids on Friday night, this is the perfect opportunity to get them out of the house!

 

Take Out Tuesday Concert Series

Joe Chiocca on the 22nd and Gary Smallwood on the 29th, 6-8pm Harris Pavilion

Get a 10% discount at participating restaurants downtown for takeout food and enjoy a relaxed concert setting while you eat and listen to tunes.

 

Sunday Concert Series and Ice Cream Social

August 19th and 26th 3-4:30pm Harris Pavilion

Bring the kids over to the Harris Pavilion for free ice cream after a show played by one of our favorite local orchestras.

 

First Baptist Church Community Festival

August 19th 11am-3pm Harris Pavilion

Enjoy a festival of food, games, music, vendors and fun for the whole family provided by the First Baptist Church!

 

Civil War Weekend

August 25th-27th Manassas Museum

Experience history first hand with live reenactments, educational activities, tours, food, music and more! A perfect event for the whole family, pick and choose which events to go to this weekend all throughout Manassas.

 

Saturday Night Adult Dance (on a Friday!)

August 25th 8-11pm Southern Persuasion

Join us for an adults only dance party at the Harris Pavilion while jamming out to this local group.

 

First Friday in Historic Downtown Manassas

September 1st 6-9pm

Celebrate Manassas’s last First Friday this month with activities and specials going on in shops and restaurants throughout the town.

 

Bands Brews and Barbeque
Sept 9th, 12-6pm, Manassas Museum Lawn

Now officially in it’s 7th year, Bands Brews and Barbeque is the perfect end of the summer celebration. What more could be better than great music and great food?

 

Tuesday Summer Farmers Markets

In addition to the year round farmer’s markets, don’t miss the last few summer farmer’s markets ending soon!

 

42nd Annual Edgar Rohr Memorial Antique Car Meet

September 16th, 10am-3pm at the Manassas Museum

In its 42nd year, join the community for an antique car meet to see some of the coolest rides around.

 

Battle Street Live

Just to add to your musical entertainment options for the summer, come on over to Battle Street to dine at your favorite restaurant while enjoying a new band each time! View the schedule here.

 

Now that you have a full list of events happening over the next few weeks, it’s time to fill up your calendar and make the most of the warm weather here in Manassas!

Kid-Friendly Summer Activities in Manassas, VA

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The littles (or bigs) are finally out of school for the summer! They are excited for lazy summer days sitting by the pool at Arcadia Run, but you are worried about what will happen when they utter the dreaded phrase: “Mom, I’m boredddddd.” Not to worry! Arcadia Run is located near some great places to take the kids and keep them entertained all summer long. From parks to fun and games to learning about history, they’ll have plenty to tell the teachers about what they did this summer. Check out some of our favorite things to do with kids this summer in Manassas, VA.

 

Splash Down Waterpark

There’s no better place to beat the summer heat with the kids than a visit to the waterpark! With slides, pools, places to splash around, and covered pavilions, this is the perfect place to spend a whole day. Splash Down even has a variety of food, snack, and ice cream options for purchase. Not to mention, you’ll get to tire the kids out at the same time they are having a blast. The water park offers daily tickets, as well as season passes and specials.

 

Signal Hill Park

Take a short drive over to Signal Hill Park with the kids and even the dog! This park has everything, from basketball courts to playgrounds to miles of trails. Grab a couple of friends or other parents their kids for an afternoon shooting some hoops, or having a picnic at the picnic table area.

 

Fourth of July Fireworks

The Fourth of July is the perfect time to grill, play outside, and watch fireworks with the kids. Head on over to Signal Hill Park on the 4th for their annual fireworks celebration! Admission is free for everyone, and they’ll have a variety of food trucks available just in case. Fireworks start at 9:15pm, so bring a blanket and get ready to watch a great display.

 

Urban Evolution

Do your kids have a lot of energy? Try out Urban Evolution! They host parkour summer day camps for kids through the entire season. They’ll get to jump around with their friends or siblings under the supervision of professional trainers, and work off some of that energy! They also have a variety of classes for adults to try if you’re looking to stay active this summer.

 

Manassas National Battlefield Park

Your kids will be sure to stop their grumbling about going to a historic site when you get to the Manassas National Battlefield. Let them roam the battlefields, check out the cannons, and even see a live action demonstration! They offer several kid friendly activities and getting them outside and exploring will ensure that they’re not being zombies in front of a TV or computer screen all summer vacation.

 

With ball courts, a pool, a firepit, and just a short drive from all these activities, living at Arcadia Run just gets even better in the summertime! Check out all we have to offer by visiting us online.

Upcoming Events in Manassas, VA

Upcoming Events in Manassas, VA
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Stonewall Jackson at Manassas Battlefield

Looking for something to do after work near your new apartment at Arcadia Run? Check out a few of these upcoming events in Manassas VA!

Ice Skating at The Harris Pavilion

Saturday January 21 (12:00 pm to 10:00 pm)

The Loy E Harris Pavilion (9431 West Street, Manassas, VA)

Spend an Saturday ice skating at The Harris Pavilion with friends, or stop by Wednesdays 6:00 to 8:00 pm for The Harris Pavilion’s free skate night!

Books on Tap

Thursday January 26 (7:00 pm to 8:30 pm)

BadWolf Brewery (8420 Kao Circle, Manassas, VA)

Join in on the fun with the newest book club that’s the talk of the town- Books on Tap, hosted by BadWolf Brewing Company and the Prince William Library System. Books on Tap will feature perfectly paired books and brews, from various genres from week to week. Stop by your local Prince William County library to pick up a copy of this week’s book—Ready Player One by Ernest Cline.

Book Talk

Sunday January 29 (1:30 pm to 3:00 pm)

Manassas Museum (9101 Prince William Street, Manassas, VA)

Meet author Marc Leepson for a talk about his new book What So Proudly We Hailed: Francis Scott Key, A Life, at the Manassas Museum

Open Mic Night @ Jirani

Thursday February 2 (7:30 pm – 10:00 pm)

Jirani Coffeehouse (9425 West Street, Manassas, VA)

Jirani Coffeehouse hosts Open Mic Night every Thursday starting at 7:30 pm. The sign up list will start at 5:00 pm – stop by to show off your singing talent! Visit Jirani’s website for additional information.

First Friday Souper Bowl

Friday February 3 (6:00 pm to 9:00 pm)

Historic Downtown Manassas, VA

Join your friends and neighbors from Arcadia Run at the Historic Downtown Manassas infamous First Friday series – Souper Bowl! As local restaurants meet to compete in the third annual Souper Bowl, locals can enjoy delicious (and unlimited) soup samples for just $10. Who will be this year’s Souper Bowl Champion? Will it be Philadelphia Tavern, The Bone, Carmello’s or Monza? You decide! Taste all of the soups and you can vote to crown the winning restaurant!

Sources: visitpwc.com, visitmanassas.org

Fun Holiday Events in Manassas!

Fun Holiday Events in Manassas!
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During the holiday season, there are plenty of ways to get into the spirit around Manassas, VA and even here at Arcadia Run! Check out all of these amazing events happening soon:

Nov 26th – A Christmas Carol: Beginning on November 26th through the next few months, The Center for The Arts at the Candy Factory will be hosting multiple showings of A Christmas Carol. Get into the holiday spirit by going to see one of the most coveted holiday shows of all time right here in Manassas, so check out all show of the show dates.

Nov 26th – Small Business Saturday: Support local businesses here in Manassas by shopping on Small Business Saturday in Downtown Manassas on Nov 26th! Get a head start on your holiday shopping with specials and sales all day long at your favorite local stores.

Nov 28th – Arcadia Run Toy Drive: From this date through December 12th, stop by the clubhouse to donate a new toy to families in need with Arcadia Run’s “Gifting for Families” toy drive. After all, it is the season for giving!

Nov 29th – Manassas Gingerbread Contest: Each year the town of Manassas holds their annual Gingerbread House Contest that runs from November 29th to December 16th. Stop by various shops throughout Historic Downtown to vote for your favorite entry! The winners will be chosen on December 16th.

Nov 30th – Swing Machine Big Band’s 5th Annual Christmas Extravaganza: Join the Hylton Performing Arts Center for this annual holiday music event form 7:30-9pm!

Dec 2nd – Merry Old Town Christmas Tree Lighting: A classic celebration with old-fashioned family fun, this year’s tree lighting is going to be one for the books! Enjoy the sweet sounds of classic holiday music from special musical guests and await Santa’s arrival on the train before the town’s tree is illuminated! This celebration will take place from 5-8pm.

Dec 3rd – 71st Greater Manassas Christmas Parade: From 10am-12pm, join the Greater Manassas area for a longtime tradition spanning generations, featuring over 2000 participants and 100 units! 

Dec 15th – The Nutcracker: The Manassas Ballet Theater and Manassas Theater Orchestra are putting on a brilliant rendition of this classic Christmas tale. Bring the whole family to the show for an unforgettable night at the Hylton Performing Arts Center for one of the 10 show days!

Dec 17th – Arcadia Run Holiday Party: Join your friends, family, and neighbors for a fun holiday party at the Arcadia Run Clubhouse from 12pm-4pm. There will be carolers, games, food, and more!