Welcome To The Hampton Inn Dumfries/Quantico

Welcome To The Hampton Inn Dumfries/Quantico
Hampton Inn Dumfries/Quantico

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Kids Fun 2012







Welcome to Central Park Funland

Winter Break HeadquartersNew Year's Eve Party/Lock-In*Saturday, December 31st 9pm-1amAdvanced tickets on sale NOW! Only $20 in advance!!!!

*See NEWS & EVENTS for all Winter Break specials!!!

BIRTHDAY PARTIES! GO-KARTS! MINIATURE GOLF! LASER TAG! ARCADE & VIDEO GAMES! PRIZES! BATTING CAGES! RIDES! ATTRACTIONS!
Central Park Funland is Virginia’s premier indoor/outdoor Family Fun Center. Funland has 15 different rides and attractions such as laser tag, go-karts, miniature golf, mini bowling, batting cages, bumper cars, and more! In addtion, Funland has one of the biggest arcades in the region, with over 100 video and redemption (prize) games. We are conveniently located in Fredericksburg, Virginia off of Interstate-95 (exit 130B), midway between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA, about one hour in either direction.

Each year, Funland hosts thousands of birthday parties, groups and families from Northern Virginia, the Washington, DC metro area, Maryland, Richmond, Fredericksburg and the surrounding counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, Prince William, and Caroline, Virginia.

Go-Karts, Laser Tag, Miniature Golf
All less than $5* per ride or game!
Most Rides & Attractions under $4*!

They're back for a limited time! WEEKLY SPECIALS every Friday Night and Wednesday Night.

For Funland’s upcoming holiday events , such as WINTER BREAK, and NEW YEAR'S EVE click Funland News & Events.

For PACKAGE DISCOUNTS on rides, games, food and fun, or for our weekend RAIN CHECK promotion, click Deals.

For daily park information including Go Kart Track times and current park weather conditions, click Today at Funland .

Funland does it AGAIN! The Ultimate Birthday Party Package now includes 4 HOURS OF UNLIMITED VIDEO GAMES!!! Check out our great packages and plan your kid's Birthday Party now. You can even conveniently book on line, day or night. Funland also has great Group Rates for your school, club, church, sports team, or extended family outing.


Check out all of Funland's Rides & Attractions!
RIDES
Grand Prix Go-Karts
Naskart and Rookie Go-Karts
Bumper Cars
Himalaya
Jett Star Mini-Coaster
Frog Hopper
Bumper Boats (CLOSED FOR SEASON)

ATTRACTIONS
Laser Tag
Miniature Golf
Play Zone (HUGE kid's indoor play park/soft play with moon bounce and more!)
Mini-Bowling
Cannonball Blaster
Rock Climbing
Batting Cages
Water Wars (CLOSED FOR SEASON)

*With $100 (130 point) purchase. See Prices for more information.
Register yourPLAY CARD!
eTICKETS*
are HERE!
Prizes on your
PLAY CARD!
*See
GAMES
for details
Winter Break
December 21st
through
January 2nd
$1 OFF* ALL
Rides & Attractions
$10-BuckTuesday
December 27th
1 Hr Wristbands
ONLY $104 Hrs ONLY $25!!!*

New Year's Eve
FAMILY
LOCK-IN*
December 31st
9pm-1am
NEWS & EVENTS
for details
Wednesday
Family Night
Pizza & Pitcher
ONLY $12.99*
VIDEO GAMES add $5
Friday Night
Park after Dark
4 HR INDOOR
Rides & Attractions
ONLY $15!*
OUTDOORS add $5
VIDEO GAMES add $5
1351 Central Park Blvd., Fredericksburg, VA 22401(540) 785-6700 Email: BirthdayParties@centralparkfun-land.com

Sunday, December 25, 2011

Indian Restaurant











"Winner of Best Retail Business"Loudoun Chamber of Commerce
WE NOW DELIVER - FREE (Within 5 miles radius with a minimum $30.00 order.)
Events & Specials :
$15.00 for $30.00 worth of food and drinks.Buy your coupon here:https://www.specialicious.com/specials/rangoli/*************We are open Christmas day for Dinner only.For this Holiday Season, we are open rest of the days regular hours. **********TOP 50 BEST Restaurants of Northern VirginiaNovember 2011.NoVa magazine now in stands.Thank you all for the vote of confidence.***********Winner : Best Virginia Restaurant BLADE Magazine, Washington DC.Details in October 2011 issue. http://www.washingtonblade.com/2011/10/27/best-of-gay-d-c-2011-dining/********Finalist: The Best Small Business Award 2010of Loudoun Chamber of Commerce*********** Recently on "Domestic District"http://sarahmeyerwalsh.wordpress.com/***********Best Bargain of Washington DC area - Again!For the fourth year in a row, 'Rangoli' made it to the TOP 100 Best Bargains list by Washingtonian Magazine.June 2010 issue.************Best Indian Restaurant in Northern Virginia.This prestigious honor has been awarded to 'Rangoli' by Northern Virginia Magazinein the June 2010 issue, cover story - Best of NOVA.A BIG 'Thank You' to all our well-wishers and supporters. **************Great News!'Rangoli' won the Loudoun County Chamber's 'Best Retail Business' of the year 2009********************We did it again!'Rangoli' is in the TOP 50 BEST restaurants of Northern Virginia (Northern Virginia Magazine - November 2009 issue)**********************Washingtonian Magazine - June 2009 issue, has chosenRangoli among the TOP100 Best Bargain Restaurants


Zabb Thai Restaurant

Zabb Thai Restaurant
11010 Sudley Manor Dr, Manassas, VA 20109 Get directions Cross Streets: Between Sudley Rd and Ashton Ave
Zabb Thai Restaurant Business Overview
Zabb Authentic Thai Restaurant is a place where you can cerebrate with great food and excellent service at a reasonable price.
Hours:
Mon-Thu 11:30am-10pm, Fri 11:30am-11pm, Sat 11:30am-11pm, Sun 11:30am-10pm, Open 7 Days
Categories:
Catering Services, Chinese Restaurants, Thai Restaurants, Carry Out & Take Out, Restaurants
Parking:
Lot
Menu:
fried rice, pad thai, sticky rice, vanilla ice cream, tom yum goong, spring roll, fried bananas, tuna salad sandwich, tom yum soup, lava cake, kapow, green curry, panang curry, pineapple fried rice, white chicken
Payment:
Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Debit Cards
Miscellaneous Phone Numbers:
703-392-4245
Specialities:
1/2 Price Appetizer from 4pm-7pm daily
Products and Services:
Authentic Delicious Thai Food, Full bar, Free delivery, private party and catering.
Languages Spoken:
Thai, English
Year Established:
2008
Cuisine:
Thai
Ambiance:
Casual, Elegant, Family Friendly, Fun, Romantic
Feature:
Bar, Buffet, Catering, Happy Hour, Healthy Options, Late Night, Outdoor Seating, Private Rooms
Reservations Policy:
Accepted
Smoking:
No Smoking
Dress Code:
Casual
Price:
$10 - $20
Other Contact Info:
Fax: 703-392-9223Email: Info@Zabbrestaurant.com

Villa Mozart Resturant




Villa Mozart Restaurant
(703) 691-4747
Reserve Now
Menu
4009 Chain Bridge Rd, Fairfax, VA 22030 Get directions Cross Streets: Between VA-236 and Sager Ave

If you are not able to find the time slot you are looking to reserve please call us. The exquisite cuisine, wines and spirits enjoyed at Villa Mozart reflect Chef Andrea Pace's decades of experience and intense passion for serving his patrons only the best. Take advantage of our $20

Three-Course Prix Fixe Lunch (Monday to Friday) and our $39 Three-Course Prix Fixe Dinner


(Monday to Thursday).
Hours:
Mon: 11:30AM - 10:00PM, Tue: 11:30AM - 10:00PM, Wed: 11:30AM - 10:00PM, Fri: 11:30AM - 10:00PM, Sat: 5:30PM - 10:00PM
Categories:
Catering Services, Italian Restaurants
Parking:
Lot
Menu:
tiramisu, risotto, hot dogs, key lime pie, chutney, beef tenderloin, apple strudel, maine lobster, rack of lamb, tapenade, mashed potato, lamb chop, asparagus soup, barolo, brussels sprouts
Payment:
Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Debit Cards
Amenities:
Banquet/Private Rooms, Business Lunches, Daily Specials, Off-Site Catering, On-Site Catering, Prixe-Fixe Menu, TV, Wheelchair Access, Wine
Chef:
Andrea Pace, Chef Owner
Cuisine:
European,Italian,Italian Northern
Ambiance:
Casual, Elegant, Romantic
Feature:
Bar, Catering, Delivery, Great Wine List, Late Night, Private Rooms, Take Out
Reservations Policy:
Suggested
Smoking:
No Smoking
Dress Code:
Business casual
Price:
$10 - $20
Other Contact Info:
Email: info@villamozartrestaurant.com



Friday, December 23, 2011

Black History Month




Address
4243 Loudoun Avenue
P. O. Box 340
The Plains, VA 21098
Region Northern Virginia
Locality Fauquier
Date(s)/Time:
(10:00 AM-3:00 PM)
Phone: (540) 253-7488
Fax: (540) 253-5126
Email info@aahafauquier.org
Website afro-americanofva.org
Website http://www.aahafauquier.org/
African American Museum, History and Genealogical Resource Center also known as AAHA. Guided tours are available to adults for $5.00, students and seniors $2.00 per hour. The museum houses 18 exhibits focusing on Fauquier County and African Americans from Slavery to the Civil Rights Movements. The Charcoal Gallery ~ include historic depictions of Fauquier's second and third generation of African American. The Reference Library contains over 2,000 titles and the Genealogy Center houses resources necessary to document Fauquier's and surrounding Counties early African Americans free and enslaved.
Amenities:• Family Friendly

First Night Alexandria - New Year's Eve Celebration



First Night Alexandria is a family oriented, non-alcohol New Year's Eve celebration held on December 31 at dozens of venues throughout historic Old Town Alexandria. This year's celebration will include 100 live performances at 18 indoor venues, the Annual Fun Hunt, plus children’s entertainment and interactive games, and a spectacular midnight finale with lasers, video, and music at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Free DASH shuttles and the King Street Trolley will transport participants to activities along King Street. New this year, the finale will warm up with a dance party on the Memorial lawn beginning at 10 p.m. with tunes by DJ Ray Casino. At 11:30 p.m. the show goes multimedia, with video, music, and a swirling spectrum of colorful lasers, culminating in a midnight countdown and ball drop. Six thousand balls will drop on revelers. Party-goers will want to snag a ball so they can enter to win prizes. See Photos of First Night Alexandria
First Night Alexandria Schedule and TimesAnnual Fun Hunt: 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.Art activities for children at the Torpedo Factory Art Center: 1 to 3 p.m.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

HAUNTED MONSTER HOUSE










Address
Natural Bridge, VA 24578
Region Shenandoah Valley
Locality Rockbridge
Phone: (540) 464-2253
Website http://www.monstersanddinosaurs.com/Haunted-Monster-Museum.html
Prof. Cline's Attractions http://www.monstersanddinosaurs.com/
Professor Cline’s Haunted Monster Museum “Number 1 weird wonder of Virginia” -Washington Post
Dare to explore the creepy, unique, authentic Victorian manor; like an adventure into an old Vincent Price movie of the '50s. Watch out for the Tingler!
In the Top 10 as one of the best walk-through attractions by the Dark Attractions & Fun House Enthusiasts organization. Non-scary tours available for little ones upon request. Dinosaur Kingdom "It's Amazing, It's Brilliant, It's Hilarious!" -Washington Post
Don’t miss out on fun photo opps! Bring a camera & wander back to 1863; find a hidden valley of dinosaurs discovered by Yankee troops. Journey into the forest of animated displays & funny, impossible scenarios; see a story unfold.
Purchase tickets at The Natural Bridge. Visit Foamhenge (free), just north of The Natural Bridge.
Admission Fee: $9.95 -13 & up; $5.95 -5-12
Amenities:• Family Friendly



Tuesday, November 29, 2011

National Air and Space Museum










Address
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
14390 Air and Space Museum Parkway
Chantilly, VA 20151
Region Northern Virginia
Locality Fairfax
Date(s)/Time:
(10:00 AM-5:30 PM)
Phone: (202) 633-1000
Email info@si.edu
Website http://www.nasm.si.edu/becomeapilot/
Website http://www.nasm.si.edu/museum/udvarhazy/
The Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, an extension of the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum, opened December 15, 2003. It is located near Dulles Airport off of Route 28, just north of the intersection of Routes 28 and 50. The huge facility houses important icons of aviation and space history. Special features include a soaring observation tower from which visitors can watch air traffic at Dulles, flight simulators, and an Imax theater. Other amenities include a museum store and food service. Education and family activities are also offered. Parking is available for a $15 fee. Admission is free.

Amenities:• Family Friendly

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Christmas at Mount Vernon












George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Address
George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
South end George Washington Parkway; 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Hwy
Mount Vernon, VA 22309
Region Northern Virginia
Locality Fairfax
Date(s)/Time:
Friday, November 25, 2011 - Friday, January 06, 2012 (9:00 AM-4:00 PM)
Friday, November 23, 2012 - Sunday, January 06, 2013 (9:00 AM-4:00 PM)
Phone: (703) 780-2000
Dining: (703) 780-0011
Group Sales: (703) 799-8688
Email info@mountvernon.org
Website http://www.mountvernon.org/
Christmas at Mount Vernon http://www.mountvernon.org/
Mount Vernon is joyfully decking the halls for Christmas at Mount Vernon, a special daytime program offered through January. Themed decorations (including 12 Christmas trees), a gingerbread Mount Vernon, historical chocolate-making demonstrations, and 18th-century dancing will be offered. View a five-foot-wide gingerbread replica of the Mansion created by former White House pastry chef Roland Mesnier!
Tour the rarely-open third floor of the Mansion and learn how the Washingtons celebrated Christmas. In 1787, George Washington paid 18 shillings to bring a camel to Mount Vernon for the enjoyment of his guests. During Christmas at Mount Vernon, visitors can meet a camel on the grounds.
Admission Fee: $15/adults; $7 child
Amenities:• Pet Friendly

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Cookery Workshops @ Laughing Duck Gardens & Cookery

Laughing Duck Gardens & Cookery has an ongoing cooking workshop aptly named "Un Dimanche a La Campagne" which translates to Sunday in the Country. This workshop, which occurs once a month, teaches the fine art of preparing a meal. Weather permitting, the class may be invited to walk through the gardens, located at the beautiful foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Rappahannock County, to pick fresh ingredients. And of course, a tasting is a must! All recipes demonstrated will be given out for registrants.


Schedule - Sundays
August 7........... 3.30 - 7.30pm
September 4.... 3 - 7pm
October 4......... 3 - 7pm
November 13.. 2.30 - 6.30pm
December 4..... 2.30 - 6.30pm

For more information on registration, please see Gardening & Cookery Workshops Terms & Conditions


Laughing Duck Gardens & Cookery LLC
PO Box 395
Washington, VA 22747
540.675.3725

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Summer Crab Fest @ Philip Carter Winery


Summertime is the best time to share food and wine with friends. Come to Philip Carter on July 23 for their annual Crab Fest. In the casual setting of our crush pad, roll up your sleeves and taste the sweet fruits of summer. Steamed crab, corn-on-the-cob, roasted potatoes, gazpacho salad and fresh ice cream will be available all day. Dinner will be served with a refreshing, just released 2010 Governor Fauquier/Vidal Blanc.

Admission: $65 per person

Saturday, July 23
5pm - 7pm

For reservations email, info@pcwinery.com

Philip Carter Winery of Virginia
4366 Stillhouse Rd
Hume, Virginia 22639
540.364.1203

Monday, July 18, 2011

Manassas Civil War Commemorative Event

On July 21 through July 24, the Manassas Civil War Commemorative Event will commemorate the Sesquicentennial of the American Civil War and the First Battle of Manassas in Manassas, VA. It will feature living history demonstrations, speakers, art, music, and many other historical commemorations and activities for the family.

Thursday, July 21, there will be a National Jubilee of Peace. This free event will showcase the 1911 Peace Jubilee for the 100th anniversary with vintage automobiles, flags, colorful bunting, peace maidens and a production of the ceremony on the courthouse steps with President Taft and Civil War Veterans.

Friday through Sunday, July 22-24, come spectate an 1860's baseball game played by re-enactors in period attire as they compete in a Civil War Baseball Tournament at Camp Manassas, Jennie Dean Elementary School.

Other events include a Manassas Civil War Military Parade, a Sesquicentennial Tableau Fashion Show, and the Manassas Blue and Gray Ball in the time of 1861.

Some events are ticketed, see site for more details including a map of the area, times and locations of events, and histories.

Thursday, July 21 - Sunday July 24

Harris Pavilion
9201 Center Street
Manassas, VA 20110

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Nature Trail Walk Through Brentsville

Come take a guided tour along the nature trails at Brentsville and learn about plants and animals that live in this part of Virginia!

Brentsville, then the county seat of Prince William County, was established on 50 acres in 1820 and by 1893 had became a primarily rural community. The Brentsville site consists of 28 acres with five historic buildings and various archaeological sites. You can visit the 1822 Courthouse and Jail, the One Room Schoolhouse, the Brentsville Tavern and more. The nature trail highlights the area's beautiful natural resources. Tours can be self-guided and picnic areas are available. Formal tours are available Thursday through Monday from 11am to 4pm or by appointment.

Brentsville Courthouse Historic Center
12229 Bristow Rd
Bristow, VA 20136
703.365.7895

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

ArtStar Theatre Camp Performance @ Workhouse Arts Center

The Workhouse Arts Center proudly presents an ArtStar Theatre Camp Performance on Friday, July 15 at 8pm. This free event is open to the public and will take place in the Performance Tent. 2011 marks the 6th anniversary of tghe ArtStar Theatre Camp! Designed for young people, ArtStar Theatre Camp promotes self-confidence and creative expression, while learning the tools of the theatrical trade: acting, music and theatre dance! If you, or someone you know, are interested in performing arts, then this camp is for you! Led by professional actors and theatre educators, campers produce a Gala Showcase for family and friends!

Friday, July 15
8pm

Free Admission

Workhouse Arts Center
9604 Ox Rd
Lorton, VA 22079

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Alexandria's Birthday Celebration w/ the ASO

Come see the Alexandria Symphony Orchestra perform their Pops Concert for the city of Alexandria's 262th Birthday Celebration! There will be be exhibits and fun activities for children. Alexandria's own Poet Laureate, Amy Young, will be giving a poetry reading you do not want to miss. As Poet Laureate, Young is working towards creating programs to foster an appreciation of poetry, and to encourage creative writing and reading. Come show your support for the arts and enjoy the fireworks show that will conclude the celebration.

Saturday, July 9
4pm - 10pm

Oronoco Bay Park
100 Madison St
Alexandria, VA 22314

Wednesday, July 6, 2011

2nd Annual Ukulele Festival @ Lake Anne

The 2nd Annual Ukulele Festival will take place on July 9th down on Lake Anne Plaza. This year’s line up includes blues artist Del Rey and features special guests Grammy Award winning Marcy Marxer and Cathy Fink. Also in the mix are The Aloha Boys, The Sweater Set & Hoa Mele Wakinekona. For the complete schedule go to the Lake Anne Fan Page! The festival will also include a Beer Garden hosted by local brewery Port City Brewery and a wine bar by Unicorn Winery, so bring a lawn chair and settle in for a great afternoon.

Later that day the Plaza will be host to the Lake Anne Reunion Group—also known as “I grew up on Lake Anne in the 70’s.” LAR as they are affectionately known will be descending on Lake Anne from all over the July 9th weekend. As a part of their entertainment they have a concert featuring the Curb Feelers and Jeff Smith and the band of Steves beginning at 6:00 pm. The beer garden will be open until 8:00 pm.

Saturday, July 9
11am- 5.30pm

Free Admission

Lake Anne Waterfront
1609 Washington Plaza
Reston, VA 20190

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Marine Band Brass Ensemble's Summer Concert Series

Bring along your picnic blankets and lawn chairs and lounge outdoors in the beautiful Semper Fidelis Memorial Park while you enjoy a performance by some of the greatest musicians in the region and the Marine Corps! Admission is FREE, and outdoor concessions will be available.

Thursday, June 30
7pm

Semper Fidelis Memorial Park
National Museum of the Marine Corps
18900 Jefferson Davis Highway
Triangle, Va 22172

Friday, June 17, 2011

Become a Pilot @ The National Air & Space Museum


Come down to the National Air and Space Museum for the seventh annual Become a Pilot Day at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. See 50 visiting vintage, recreational, military, and home-built aircraft on display outside the Center for one day only. Talk to pilots and discover what skills are needed to fly. Inside the Center, test your piloting skills in flight simulators, talk to aviation experts, and enjoy story time and hands-on activities with the kids.

This year, there will be a focus on naval aviation in celebration of the Navy's centennial. Hear speakers and see visiting aircraft from the US Navy. Catch a performance by the US Navy drill team and enjoy a musical performance by the US Navy band, the Commodores.

This event is free and is open to the public. Parking is $15.

Saturday, June 18th
10am - 3pm

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian
14390 Air And Space Museum Parkway
Chantilly, VA 20151


Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Celebrate Fairfax! Festival


Celebrate Fairfax!, Northern Virginia’s largest community-wide celebration, arrives June 10-12, 2011 to the Fairfax County Government Center. Presented by Celebrate Fairfax, Inc, the annual festival hosts tens of thousands of visitors during the three-day run. The 25-acre site is magically filled with fascinating sights and sounds of more than 300 exhibitors, food vendors, crafters and interactive activities. Celebrate Fairfax! showcases live concerts on seven stages, ExxonMobil Children's Avenue, a petting zoo, the Fairfax County Karaoke Championship, carnival rides, and great festival foods. Another fun activity for kids is the Inova Train Ride to Good Health. Nightly fireworks, presented by SAIC, are a highlight of the festival, and one of many great family programs. This year's Bud Light Main Stage features top national headline performers: Third Eye Blind, The Bangles and The Legwarmers!

Hours:
Friday.......6pm - 12am
Saturday..10am - 12am
Sunday.....11am - 7pm

For a full schedule of the line up, click here


Celebrate Fairfax!
12000 Government Center Pkwy
Fairfax, VA 22035


Tuesday, June 7, 2011

JoJo's Original Softserve is Ready for Summer!

Trying to keep cool in this sweltering weather we've been having
lately? One great spot to hit in Dumfries would be JoJo's Original Soft-serve- its just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Dumfries Hampton Inn! They've felt the heat too and have decided to open up with summer hours (11am to 11pm) which runs 7 days a week until September 5! And Jojo's cares about the needs of their customers- will serve rain or shine.

Jojo's is well-known for their tasty desserts and currently the 'coolest' sellers are their Cheesecake Shakes and Banana Splits. Side note: My personal favorite is the Worm Sundae- creamy vanilla ice cream with Oreo sprinkles (being the 'dirt') and gummy worms... it brings out the kid in me :) Also, added bonus: Jojo's is pet friendly to the point of having a special Pup Cup for your furry friends.

So go try out Jojo's ice cream, shaved ice, milkshakes, splits, sundaes, and more with a wide assortment of toppings and flavors. They have everything you need for the perfect frozen treat!

JoJo's Original Soft-Serve
17986 South Main St
Dumfries, VA 22026

Monday, June 6, 2011

Celebrate Drive-In Movie Day!


'Sandy! You can't just walk out of a drive-in!' -John Travolta, Grease

Today, June 6, marks the anniversary of the drive- in movie theater. The first was built in Camden, NJ in 1933. Within fifteen years of its creation, the new idea spread and more drive-ins were built across the country; reaching 5,000 locations by the late 1950s. Now, less than 500 remain in the US.

Why are drive-in movies better than movie theaters?

1. You can bring whatever food/ drinks (sans alcohol) you want- no need for the large shopping bag hiding your McDonald's.
2. You don't have to worry about being too loud or people getting mad at you for crying your eyes out when the hero's father dies.
3. You can use you cellphone as much as you want to give your absentee friends a play-by-play of the movie without getting heckled.
4. You are sure to have your own armrest, no awkward fights over a measly 3 inches with a stranger necessary.
5. Most are dog-friendly, no need to deprive your pets from the big screen movie experience.
6. If you bring your kids along and they aren't too interested in the movie, most drive-ins have a playground...or you can leave them in the car and sit outside in peace.
7. You have complete control over the temperature in your car...no need to be forced to shiver throughout some cheesy vampire movie.
8. Have nervous legs that have you jumping up every half hour or so? At drive-ins there is no awkward shuffle as you trip over legs and dodge angry flying popcorn to get out.
9. Drive-ins provide a more intimate movie-watching experience...snuggle up and enjoy the show!
10. They are just cooler...enough said.

Fact: There are only nine drive-ins still standing in Virginia. If you are currently in the Northern Virginia area, the closest drive-in movie theater is The Family Drive-In Theater located in Stephens City, VA. On June 14th, they will be celebrating their 55th anniversary!

Admission (for two movies)
Adults: 7.50 (12 and up)
Child: 3.50 (3 to 11)
Under 3 is free

The Family Drive-In Theater
5890 Valley Pike (US Route 11)
Stephens City, VA 22655
Movie line: 540.665.6982

Friday, June 3, 2011

Springfield Days!


Springfield Days is a community wide celebration that takes place the weekend after Memorial Day each year in the heart of Springfield, Virginia. Springfield Days 2011 will be Thursday, June 2 through Sunday, June 5. Four days of fun for the whole family! The festivities begin with our Kick-off Reception on Thursday, June 2 at Safford Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Springfield. Take your family out for FamilyFest with games, rides, food and more Thursday through Sunday. Join us on Friday for a fun, family Pasta Dinner or the Student FilmFest. Saturday morning starts with a Springfield 15k/5k Run/Walk. Come see the festivies on Saturday at Springfield Mall including PetFest, Paws-on-Parade, ArtFest, Exhibitors, and Live Entertainment. Also on Saturday will be a Party in the Park with free swimming and an Outdoor Movie in the evening. And this year the Cardboard Boat Regatta is back!

Thursday, June 02 to Sunday, June 05

Find a schedule of events here:

6801 Commerce Street
Springfield, VA 22150
703.437.9101

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

National Go Barefoot Day for Soles4Souls

With summer fast approaching, what better way to appreciate the changing weather- the warmth of the sand, the coolness of the grass or, (if you prefer to remain indoors) the cushy softness of your carpet- than to discard your shoes and go barefoot?

Today kicks of National Barefoot Week which is sponsored by Soles4Souls, a charity which collects new and gently-used shoes for people in need, reaching 127 countries world-wide. Soles4Souls has collected and distributed well over 14 million pairs of shoes, that's one pair of shoes every seven seconds!

Here's how you can help throughout the week:

Visit CharityBuzz. They are hosting a Celebrity Shoe Auction with shoes donated by Brooke Shields, Alex Rodriguez, Justin Timberlake, Paris Hilton and many more.

Clean out your closet, the trunk of your car, old storage bins and donate gently-used shoes. Find a drop off location near you here.

Make an effort to go barefoot for at least 4 consecutive hours during the week and spread the word on how you felt.

On Sunday, religious organizations are encouraged to become involved by accepting donations from members and taking barefoot walks.

Please donate and help spread the word. Here at the Hampton Inn of Dumfries, employees are pitching in to help Soles4Souls achieve their goal to collect 11 million pairs of shoes in 2011. Many people are in need and by donating you are helping to prevent the spread of disease, helping children to get an education, and saving the environment- when shoes break down in landfills, the toxic glue used leaks into the atmosphere and water supply. Help make a difference!

Monday, May 30, 2011

Meade Skelton at St. Elmo's Coffee/ Memorial Day

The community oriented St. Elmo's Coffee Pub features coffees - mostly organic, to include 'bird-friendly' - from around the world, tea, juice, soda, pastries and cereal, sandwiches, soups, and salads. There are board games to play, books for browsing, live music, a gallery of work by local artists, and even a special doggy area with water bowls and treats. Remember to bring your own cup to receive a discount.

This Friday, singer/songwriter Meade Skelton, the piano-playing cowboy from Richmond, will bring his 88 keys of entertainment to St. Elmo's Coffee Pub. Enjoy some of the sweet tea goodness of Meade's music.

Free admission

Friday, June 3
8pm

St. Elmo's Coffee Pub
2300 Mt Vernon Ave
Alexandria, Va 22301
703.739.9268

Happy Memorial Day! Be sure to pause and acknowledge the sacrifices made by people who have served and those who are currently serving our nation. A National Moment of Rememberance will occur at 3pm today.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Memorial Day at Kenmore and Ferry Farm

Spend Memorial Day weekend with history. Visit Historic Kenmore and Ferry Farm where Civil War living-history interpreters will bring the past to life. Learn about period chores and cooking, medicine, and weapons. See exhibitions of cavalry and infantry drilling. Hear period music and play games.

Saturday, May 28...10am - 5pm
Sunday, May 29.....10am - 3pm

Ferry Farm
The Civil War at Washington's Boyhood Home.
Visit with living-history interpreters.
Watch cavalry and infantry close-order drilling.
Enjoy period cooking demonstrations, music, and games.

Admission: Adults $8, Students $4, Under 6yrs Free

George Washington's Ferry Farm
268 Kings Hwy
Fredericksburg, VA 22405
540.370.0732

Kenmore
Cannons at Kenmore: A snapshot of Kenmore during the Civil War
Special interactive tours include stories about female spies, Kenmore as a hospital, and demonstrations of period cooking in the kitchen.
Visitors can talk with Civil War reenactors about what life was like for the typical solider.

Admission: Adults $10, Students $5, Under 6yrs Free

Historic Kenmore
1201 Washington Ave
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
540.373.3381

Planning to visit both sites? Combination admission tickets are available: Adults $15, Students $8
Find more information at http://kenmore.org/

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

ViVa! Vienna! Memorial Day Festival

ViVa! Vienna! is designed to bring the citizens of Vienna and surrounding communities together to highlight the impressive spirit of Northern Virginia and to remember the American heroes who have fought for our nation, some making the ultimate sacrifice. The Memorial Day Tribute beginning at 3PM on Monday, May 30 on the Vienna Town Green All local elected officials have been invited with Congressman Connolly and Vienna Mayor Seeman speaking.

With amusement park rides, food vendors, live music and a children’s entertainment stage with magicians and banjo music, Vienna’s annual festival is a perfect way to start the summer with the whole family.
Saturday, May 28
Food, Entertainment & Rides Only ........10am-10pm
Sunday, May 29
Vendors...10am-6pm, Food & Rides.....10am-10pm, Entertainment...12:00pm-10pm
Monday, May 30
Vendors, Food, Entertainment & Rides..10am-6pm

Free Admission
$1 per ticket for rides

Historic Town of Vienna
245 Maple Ave West
Vienna, VA 22180

Friday, May 20, 2011

18th Century Spring Market Fair @ Claude Moore Colonial Farm

Celebrate spring at this local colonial museum and working farm’s first Market Fair of the season! Dance and sing to period music. Play quoits and other games, and watch a children’s puppet theater. Order nails from the Blacksmith, and herbs and flower plants. Browse the latest in Colonial American fashions at the Seamstress, Millinery and Stillatory stands. Enjoy roast chicken, fresh asparagus, sugar cakes and fruit pies. Stroll living history museum grounds. See Farm family and community members in character and costume, as well as chickens, turkeys and other farm animals.

Saturday & Sunday, May 21- 22
11am - 4.30pm

Admission: Adults $6
Children 3-12 and Seniors $3

Claude Moore Colonial Farm
6310 Georgetown Pike
McLean, VA 22101
703.442.7557

Monday, May 16, 2011

Walk to End Alzheimer's- PWC

An estimated 5.3 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s today. Memory Walk is the Alzheimer’s Association’s signature walk event designed to bring people together from all walks of life who have been affected by Alzheimer’s disease. Register and Join us this Spring in Prince William County.. We’re on the MOVE to end Alzheimer’s! To start a team or make a donation, contact the Alzheimer’s Association National Capital Area Chapter at www.alz.org/nca/ or 800-272-3900. The Alzheimer’s Association’s Memory Walk, is the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research programs.

Saturday, May 21
Registration Begins ...... 8am
Program & Walk Begins.. 9am
Register Here

Prince William County
Harris Pavilion
9116 Center St
Manassas, VA 20110

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Happy Limerick Day!!

Limerick Day celebrates the birthday of Writer Edward Lear (1812-1888). It also, of course, celebrates Limerick poems. Limericks were popularized by Lear in 1846 in his Book of Nonsense".

This day is a time to enjoy and get your fill of Limerick poems. We are so glad that it came along to brighten up our lives. Celebrate Limerick Day in style by writing a Limerick or two of your own. Or, sit down and read a few humorous Limericks. They are guaranteed to make you smile.

A Limerick is a humorous verse or poem. It is five lines long. It's name comes from the city of Limerick, Ireland. The first two lines rhyme with the fifth line rhyme. The third and fourth lines rhyme.

So here we go...

There once was an Inn down the way
which helped those with no place to stay
Hampton was its handle
no others can hold a candle
free smiles and waffles everyday!

Not bad for a first attempt! Write a limerick and bring a grin to someone's face- either from the touching thought or how bad it is, you are guaranteed a smile :)

For tips and more limericks check out:

Monday, May 9, 2011

Flying Circus Airshow @


Every Sunday May through October, watch daring expert pilots perform stunts in vintage biplanes. Enjoy a picnic lunch as a parachute jumper opens the show and a wingwalker hangs upside down from the biplane's wing. Standard and Aerobatic Biplane rides are offered before and after each show. $10 adults; $3 children 3-12; children under 3 are free Sundays, May through October Gates open at 11am. Show begins at 2:30pm each Sunday. Check out their Facebook.


The Flying Circus Airshow
5114 Ritchie Rd
Bealeton, VA 22712
540.439.8661

Monday, May 2, 2011

Touring Rippon Lodge of Woodbridge

Rippon Lodge was built around 1747 by Richard Blackburn and is one of the oldest houses still standing in Prince William County. You are invited to take a virtual tour of Rippon Lodge with local historians to discover the grandeur and importance of this important colonial home.

Visiting Rippon Lodge

Tours of Rippon Lodge are offered from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Friday through Sunday, May through October, and by appointment. Grounds are open during operating hours. We offer a special location for your upcoming social or business lunch. Learn more about our tours and a lunch at Luncheons at Rippon Lodge.

For information about tours and programs, contact:


Rippon Lodge Historic Site

15520 Blackburn Road

Woodbridge, VA 22191

703-499-9812 or 703-792-4754

http://www.pwcgov.org/

Monday, April 25, 2011


On the last Sunday of every month, take a free guided nature tour of the grounds of the Belmont Estate, home of artist Gari Melchers, with Virginia Master Naturalists. Tours start outside the Museum Shop and Stafford Visitor Center at 2:00pm. Members of the Central Rappahannock Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist program will lead tours of the woods and fields at Belmont. Aside from the historic house, carriage house, and outbuildings, the walk covers about 1 mile of trails and touches on the historic ruins that illustrate Belmont's past - including a grave-site, springs, pumphouse, and river overlook. The trail covers steep and rough terrain, and may be muddy at times, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Tours will take place in rain, snow or shine. No reservations are necessary.


Last Sunday of each month, 2 p.m.

Belmont
224 Washington Street,
Fredericksburg, VA 22405
540.654.1015
http://www.umw.edu/gari_melchers/