Issuu

ROAD Trip!

Your Guide to Quick Summer Getaways in Virginia and Beyond

ABOUT THIS SECTION

Road Trip! is published by Rappahannock Media LLC and inserted into its three newspapers: InsideNoVa/Prince William, the Rappahannock News and the Culpeper Times. Additional copies are being made available for pickup at various locations in Fauquier County, Culpeper County and elsewhere in the region. Some of the content in this section was provided by the advertisers. All content ©2026.

RAPPAHANNOCK MEDIA LLC

PRESIDENT Dennis Brack dbrack@rappnews.com

CHIEF OPERATING

OFFICER

Bruce Potter bpotter@insidenova.com

ADVERTISING SALES

MANAGERS

Connie Fields cfields@insidenova.com

Jim Kelly jim@whglifestyle.com

Jennifer Margerum jmargerum@culpepertimes.com

ART DIRECTOR

Kara Thorpe

309 Jett Street Washington, VA 22747 (540) 675-3338

BETS: Northern Virginia

Celebrating Our Shared Heritage

With summer just a couple of weeks away, InsideNoVa and our sister publications are thrilled to present this special edition of “Road Trip!,” a curated guide to quick summer getaways across Virginia and beyond.

This year’s edition holds particular significance as we join the nation in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Our region serves as a vibrant gateway to this milestone, offering unique opportunities to engage with the history that forged our democracy while enjoying the best of modern-day Virginia. Starting with the historic grounds of Mount Vernon, the spirit of “America 250” is everywhere. You can explore high-tech augmented reality exhibits at the National Museum of the United States Army or step aboard historic tall ships during “Sails on the Potomac” in Alexandria. For those seeking adventure, the “Wheels and Warbirds” event in Culpeper offers a bucket-list chance to see living pieces of our heritage in the sky and on the ground.

Our local partners are also marking the occasion with exclusive offerings, such as Prince Michel’s limited-edition commemorative wine and Tap 29’s celebration beer glass. Beyond the historical commemorations, this section highlights the rich cultural fabric of our community, from the 90th anniversary of Virginia State Parks to lively local festivals like the Watermelon Pickers’ Fest and the Amissville Carnival.

Whether you are seeking a reflective walk through George Washington's estate or a festive family day at a local fair, we invite you to use this guide to plan your own patriotic journey. Join us this summer as we celebrate 250 years of the American story through the people, places and events that make our region truly exceptional.

NATIONAL ARMY MUSEUM Showcases the American Revolution

CELEBRATE AMERICA’S 250TH at George Washington's Mount Vernon

CELEBRATE THE 90TH ANNIVERSARY OF VIRGINIA STATE PARKS

GWays to Celebrate America’s 250th Summer at George Washington’s Mount Vernon

museum exhibits, working farm and gardens, visitors can also enjoy the following events and activities:

New Beer Garden: The new outdoor Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant Beer Garden features rotating local craft beers, wine and a special food menu and is open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 4 until 7 p.m. No estate admission is required to visit the beer garden.

George Washington Whiskey Tastings: Sample spirits produced using 18th-century distilling techniques while learning about George Washington’s historic distillery.

eorge Washington’s Mount Vernon invites visitors to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at one of the nation’s most iconic and beautiful historic destinations.

“Mount Vernon offers one of the most meaningful and memorable ways to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary,” said Douglas Bradburn, president and CEO of George Washington’s Mount Vernon. “Whether guests are enjoying fireworks over the Potomac, sampling whiskey made using George Washington’s original distilling methods, or walking through the mansion and historic grounds, they are experiencing the history that created our nation.”

Visitors can now also take advantage of Mount Vernon’s new shuttle service from the King Street Metro station in Alexandria. The scenic shuttle ride along the Potomac River provides a convenient connection to the estate, while free onsite parking remains available for guests who prefer to drive.

In addition to exploring the estate’s recently restored mansion, immersive

Author Lecture, June 16: Historian Gautham Rao talks about his book, “White Power: Policing American Slavery,” which shines a light on the violent legacy of the slaveholding oligarchy and the brutal policing of Black Americans.

Freedom Before Emancipation Family Day for Juneteenth, June 19-20: A two-day program explores how enslaved people at Mount Vernon resisted enslavement and pursued freedom before emancipation. Visitors can experience specialty tours, live music, historical character performances, hands-on activities and commemorative ceremonies honoring the lives and legacies of the enslaved community at Mount Vernon.

Lunch at the Library: Inside Alexandria’s Beautiful Historic Homes, June 30: Join author Robert F. Weinhagen for a lunchtime discussion exploring the architectural beauty and preservation stories behind some of Old Town Alexandria’s most remarkable historic homes. Hosted at the George Washington Presidential Library.

Independence Fireworks, July 3 and 4: Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an evening of fireworks over the Potomac River. Event includes patriotic music, 18th-century entertainment, Revolutionary War encampments, family activities and appearances by General Washington. Tickets are on sale, and advance purchase is recommended.

An American Celebration, July 4: Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with George Washington with a day of patriotic activities, live music, historical demonstrations, Revolutionary War encampments and family-friendly entertainment across the estate. Guests can also witness a naturalization ceremony welcoming new U.S. citizens.

BEST BETS

in Northern Virginia

Polo in the Park

Enjoy a Saturday evening of two arena polo matches on the grounds of historic Morven Park in Leesburg. Each match will showcase the skills of nationally and internationally recognized polo players, performing at the top of their game. Spectators are encouraged to bring a picnic, including their beverage of choice, or visit food vendors.

WHEN:

Saturdays in June and July, starting June 6, 6-10 p.m.

WHERE:

Morven Park International Equestrian Center, 41580 Sunday Morning Lane, Leesburg

TICKETS: Start at $45.

MORE INFORMATION:

48th Annual ALX Jazz Fest

Enjoy live performances by some of the region’s top jazz performers during an expanded three-day event, along with inspiring words by renowned poets. Visitors can also experience hands-on art projects, lawn games, food vendors and drinks all afternoon.

WHEN:

Friday, June 12, noon-6 p.m.; Saturday, June 13, noon-9 p.m.; Sunday, June 14, noon-6 p.m.

WHERE:

Waterfront Park, 1A Prince St., Alexandria

HOW MUCH: Free

MORE INFORMATION: alexandriava.gov/arts/alexandria-jazz-fest

Sails on the Potomac

Step aboard four historic tall ships – including the 1883 Portuguese vessel Gazela – docked along the Old Town waterfront as Alexandria celebrates its role in the founding of the nation. Tour the decks, explore the 250th History Village and Outpost, browse public art, and catch live music and fireworks Saturday night. Timed tickets for ship tours are free but recommended in advance.

WHEN:

Friday, June 12, through Sunday, June 14. Ship tours

noon-6 p.m. daily; 250th Village, noon-6 p.m. Friday and Sunday, noon-7 p.m.

Saturday; performances, noon-6 p.m. Friday and Sunday, noon-9 p.m.

Saturday. Fireworks Saturday at 9 p.m.

WHERE:

Alexandria Waterfront, Founders Park and Waterfront Park, Alexandria

HOW MUCH:

Free; evening receptions require tickets

MORE INFORMATION: alexandriava.gov/Sails250

Manassas Bee Festival

Visitors will celebrate pollinators as they listen to live music and garden and pollinator speakers. Dress like a pollinator and have fun with bee-inspired crafts; participate in a spelling bee and yoga on the lawn, and enjoy local brews and food vendors. A 2K “Honey Hike” starts at 9:15 a.m. from the Manassas Museum Lawn to the event.

WHEN:

Saturday, June 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

WHERE:

Liberia House and Grounds, 8601 Portner Ave., Manassas

HOW MUCH:

Free

PARKING:

A tractor shuttle will provide free rides from the Manassas Parking Garage (9102 Prince William St., across from the museum lawn) to the festival at Liberia; return rides will be available back to Historic Downtown Manassas.

NEW THIS YEAR:

Special brews will be served, made with local honey from the Liberia House & Grounds’ apiary, historic Liberty Street apiary, and local beekeeper backyard apiaries.

MORE INFORMATION: visitmanassas.org/event/manassas-bee-festival

Fairfax County Drone Light Show

As part of Experience Fairfax 250, the Fairfax County Park Authority will debut its drone light show during the Lake Fairfax 250th Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27. Instead of traditional fireworks, hundreds of synchronized drones will light up the night with music, motion and patriotic images. Guests can spend the day enjoying everything Lake Fairfax has to offer, from trails, boating and camping to live music, food trucks and family activities.

WHEN:

Saturday, June 27, noon-10 p.m. (Rain date, Sunday, June 28)

WHERE:

Lake Fairfax Park, 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston

PARKING (PER VEHICLE):

$20 online through June 26 at 11:59 p.m. Get your parking pass in advance. $25 at the gate. Pedestrians and cyclists enter free.

MORE DETAILS: fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/lake-fairfax/ 250th-independence-day/062726

Prince William County Fair

The Prince William County Fair is the largest county fair in Virginia. The annual event includes livestock demonstrations and competitions, a petting zoo, home arts exhibits, tractor pulls, a rodeo, demolition derbies, baby contests, live music and a variety of midway shows. Games and carnival rides attract visitors of all ages.

WHEN:

Friday, July 31, through Saturday, Aug. 8, varying times each day.

WHERE:

Prince William County Fairgrounds, 10624 Dumfries Road, Manassas

MORE INFORMATION: pwcfair.com

The Gazela, a circa 1883, is the oldest and largest ship at Sails on the Potomac.

New Exhibit at National Army Museum Showcases the American Revolution

Northern Virginia’s portal to the thrilling and history-making moments of the American Revolution is found at the National Museum of the United States Army.

Off the Fairfax County Parkway, just minutes from Interstate 95, visitors can travel back 250 years through the latest technology, hands-on activities and some of the rarest period artifacts to ever go on public display.

“American Revolution: The Augmented Exhibition” is the museum’s latest addition. Presented by The Army Historical Foundation and produced by French technology company, Histovery, this familyfriendly experience uses augmented reality and portable tablets to drop visitors into 360-degree recreations of the events that forged American democracy.

Complementing the high-tech experiences are the real-life pieces of history in the special exhibit, “Call To Arms: The Soldier and the Revolutionary War.” Life-like figures of America’s first soldiers are surrounded by artifacts that few have ever seen.

The exhibit’s most recent addition is a gold pocket watch given by Gen. George Washington to the Marquis de Lafayette – two of the Revolution’s most consequential leaders.

All exhibits are included with the museum’s free admission and parking.

The Augmented Exhibition is closed on Mondays. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Unearth a Story During Summer Reading at Prince William Libraries

This summer, Prince William Public Libraries invites you to dig a little deeper. With this year’s theme, “Unearth a Story,” readers can uncover hidden worlds, explore the past and discover something new with every page.

From dinosaurs to gardening and everything in between, Prince William Public Libraries offers more than 350 free programs to spark curiosity, creativity and connection for all ages.

Sign up for Summer Reading in person, online, or on the Beanstack Tracker app and track your reading progress. After you read for 500 minutes, pick out a free book to keep and be entered in a prize drawing. Prizes are available while supplies last. Learn more at pwcva.gov/SummerReading.

Catoctin Creek transforms tasting room

Catoctin Creek Distilling Company is happy to announce a comprehensive refresh of its tasting room experience, featuring extended hours, an expanded cocktail and mocktail program, enhanced guest hospitality, and a Grand Re-Opening celebration scheduled for July 1.

The changes are largely due to the recent passage of state legislation that allows distilleries to pour larger amounts of their spirits per customer. For more details, please see catoctincreek.com.

Tea Distinguishes McAllister’s Deli

The care we put into sourcing, crafting, sweetening and serving our tea is what truly distinguishes us from other brands. At McAlister’s, we’re passionate about tea and committed to ensuring every glass is perfectly prepared – from the very first sip to the last.

McAlister’s Deli also makes gathering simple with a wide variety of fresh, handcrafted menu options everyone can enjoy. From satisfying breakfast selections and flavorful lunch favorites to delicious snacks, McAlister’s catering is a convenient and reliable choice – available for pickup, delivery and even same-day ordering.

Ways to Celebrate America’s 250th Summer at George Washington’s Mount Vernon

George Washington’s Mount Vernon invites visitors to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary at one of the nation’s most iconic and beautiful historic destinations.

In addition to exploring the estate’s recently restored mansion, immersive

museum exhibits, working farm and gardens, visitors can also enjoy the following events and activities:

George Washington Whiskey Tastings: Sample spirits produced using 18th-century distilling techniques while learning about George Washington’s historic distillery.

MORE DETAILS

Visit mountvernon.org/250

BEST BETS

Shenandoah Valley and Western Virginia

Watermelon Pickers’ Fest

The Watermelon Pickers’ Fest is an annual gathering of 19 local and nationally known musicians performing bluegrass, country and Americana music. In addition to the performances, the festival offers a variety of workshops, craft and food vendors and activities for children.

WHEN:

Thursday, Sept. 10, through Saturday, Sept. 12 (22nd annual); special events and workshops are also scheduled Sept. 10 for an additional fee.

WHERE:

Clarke County Ruritan Fairgrounds, 890 West Main St., Berryville

HOW MUCH:

$135.05 (including a $10.05 fee) for three-day general admission; varying pricing for single day or multiple-day passes and for children. See website for information on overnight camping passes.

PARKING: Free

MORE INFORMATION: watermelonpickersfest.com

Oak Grove Folk Music Festival

The Oak Grove Folk Music Festival features three days of folk and acoustic music, including concerts, an open mic Saturday and a gospel sing Sunday morning, all in a small open theater setting in a forest of old oak trees. Food and drink will be available to purchase.

WHEN:

Friday, Aug. 28, concert begins at 7:30 p.m. (gates open at 6 p.m.); Saturday, Aug. 29, 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. (gates open at 10 a.m.); and Sunday, Aug. 30, 10:30 a.m. (gates open at 10 a.m.)

WHERE:

Oak Grove Theater, 845 Quicks Mill Road, Staunton

PARKING: On-site, free

HOW MUCH:

$35 Friday; $70 Saturday; $40 Sunday; $100 for a three-day ticket; children under 12, free

DETAILS:

Food trucks on site, or bring a picnic

TICKETS: oakgrovefestival.com/tickets

MORE INFORMATION: oakgrovefestival.com

Freedom Food Festival

Main Street in downtown Lexington will be converted into a community street and music festival featuring live music, beer/wine sales, desserts and tasty July 4th picnic-style fare. This fundraiser pairs local celebrity chefs and restaurants with area nonprofits in a festive, family-friendly atmosphere. The festival will be held rain or shine.

WHEN:

Friday, July 3, 5 to 10 p.m.

WHERE:

East Washington Street and South Main Street, Lexington

HOW MUCH:

Admission is free; tickets are required for a meal from one of the food tents. Tickets are $20 in advance; $25 day of event

PARKING: Free

4th of July British Invasion! with music by AbbeyRoad - the Ultimate Beatles Party Band

What would be more appropriate for America’s 250th anniversary than…. A British Invasion (again).This time with tunes from AbbeyRoad-the Ultimate Beatles Party Band, featuring music from The Beatles, Dave Clark Five, Herman’s Hermits and more. Grills available for hot dogs and burgers.

WHEN:

Saturday, July 4, noon-8 p.m.

WHERE: DuCard Vineyards, 40 Gibson Hollow Lane, Etlan

TICKETS:

$12 in advance; $20 at the door

MORE INFORMATION:

Wakefield: More Than a School, a Community That Shapes Lives

In a world increasingly focused on rankings, resumes and rapid achievement, Wakefield stands apart by remembering something essential: Education is ultimately about people.

It is about shaping thoughtful, compassionate, capable human beings who are prepared not only for college or careers, but for meaningful lives. That mission is visible every day across the Wakefield campus: in classrooms filled with curiosity, on athletic fields where teamwork matters as much as winning and in the countless moments of connection that define the school community.

What makes Wakefield special is not simply its academics, athletics, arts programs or growing STEM opportunities. It is the culture created when students are genuinely known by their teachers, challenged to grow and encouraged to lead with integrity.

Wakefield understands that education is not one-size-fits-all. Every child arrives with unique talents, interests and ambitions, and the school’s greatest strength may be its ability to nurture those individual gifts while building a strong sense of belonging.

Walk through the halls at Wakefield, and you immediately sense the difference. There is rigor, certainly, but also warmth. Students

are encouraged to ask difficult questions, take intellectual risks and engage deeply with the world around them. Teachers do more than deliver lessons. They mentor, inspire and model lifelong learning. In an age where students can often feel anonymous, Wakefield creates an environment where relationships matter.

That spirit of innovation is especially evident in Wakefield’s expanding robotics program, which has quickly become a source of pride. Students involved in robotics are not simply learning technical skills; they are developing creativity, collaboration, problem-solving and perseverance. Whether designing, coding, building or competing, they experience hands-on learning that prepares them for an increasingly technology-driven world.

More importantly, the program reflects Wakefield’s broader philosophy that students learn best when they are challenged to think critically, work together and apply knowledge in meaningful ways.

Equally important is the school’s commitment to character. Wakefield students are taught that success is not measured solely by accomplishments, but by how they treat others and contribute to their communities.

Service, leadership and empathy are woven into the fabric of school life. Whether organizing outreach efforts, supporting classmates or stepping into leadership roles, students learn that responsibility and compassion go hand in hand.

The arts, athletics and STEM programs also play a vital role in shaping the Wakefield experience. Performances, games, robotics competitions and team victories are celebrated not only for showcasing talent but also for reflecting dedication, resilience and collaboration. These experiences teach students how to persevere through setbacks, work toward shared goals and discover confidence in themselves.

At a time when education faces enormous challenges and pressures, Wakefield offers a compelling reminder of what schools can and should be. It is a place where excellence and kindness coexist, where achievement is balanced with humanity and where students are prepared not just to succeed, but to make a difference.

Wakefield is more than a school. It is a community that shapes lives, and that is an education worth celebrating.

R.H. Ballard Shops & Gallery: An Artful Mix of Unique Gifts and Fine Art

Located in the heart of Little Washington, this destination shop and gallery is a visual symphony of unique home goods, specialty gifts, fine art and decor.

Established in 1997, the Ballards began as a small art gallery offering beautiful rugs and fine art. Robert Ballard has over 50 years of experience in the art world, curating galleries and museums from New Zealand to Washington.

MORE INFO

307 Main St., Little Washington, Va. Open daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. rhballard.com

Over time, Joanie Ballard expanded their offerings to include beautiful table linens from Le Jacquard Francais, unique finds from their travels around Europe, vintage treasures and thoughtfully curated items for women, children and the home. There is definitely something for everyone.

This award-winning business is also known for its excellent customer service, both online and in its brick-and-mortar location. It is a testament to the couple’s shared passion for quality products, fine art and design and their genuine joy in offering an exquisite curated selection of items to beautify any home.

BEST BETS

Central and Piedmont Virginia

Orange County Music Festival at Montpelier

Kick off Independence Day weekend on the historic grounds of James Madison’s estate with a day of live country music headlined by Chris Cagle, with supporting acts Dan Tyminski Band, Dylan Schneider and James Tamelcoff. Arrive early to tour Madison’s home and explore the gardens and trails before the music begins. Food, beer, wine and bourbon vendors round out the festivities.

WHEN:

Friday, July 3. Gates open 9 a.m.; music 4-9 p.m.

WHERE:

James Madison’s Montpelier, 11350 Constitution Highway, Montpelier Station, Va.

HOW MUCH:

$27.37 until July 2; $53.74 after. Buy tickets at rappnews.link/hck

MORE INFORMATION: orangevachamber.com/orange-music-festival

Amissville Carnival & Parade

A slice of Americana will slowly roll along U.S. 211, about 20 minutes from both Warrenton and Culpeper, in late June as the Amissville Volunteer Fire and Rescue parade returns. The annual event and its accompanying carnival offer a healthy dose of small town summer goodness, when the community comes to cheer the carnival queen and play the midway games.

WHEN:

Wednesday, June 24-Saturday, June 27; parade: Thursday, June 25, 6:45 p.m.

WHERE:

Amissville Volunteer Fire And Rescue, 14711 Lee Highway, Amissville

HOW MUCH:

Free to attend; tickets sold for carnival rides, games

FOR

MORE INFORMATION:

facebook.com/AmissvilleVFR and amissvillevfr.org/parade

Brandy Station Firemen’s Fair

Rides, games, food and fun for the whole family, along with live music every evening.

WHEN:

Wednesday, Aug. 12, and Thursday, Aug. 13, 6-10 p.m.; Friday, Aug. 14, 6-11 p.m.; Saturday, Aug. 15, 1 p.m. to midnight; Sunday, Aug. 16, 1-9 p.m.

WHERE:

Brandy Station Fairgrounds, 20057 Fleetwood Heights Road, Brandy Station

PARKING: Free

HOW MUCH:

Free admission; fee for midway rides, food (wristbands run $20-$30 depending on day/time)

MORE INFORMATION: bsvfd.com

Culpeper Rodeo

Bull riding, barrel racing and mutton busting will all be part of the fun at this charity event to benefit the Kelly Street Boxing Club for at-risk boys.

WHEN:

Saturday, Sept. 5, 2 to 8 p.m.

WHERE:

Culpeper Agricultural Enterprise, 10220 James Madison Highway, Culpeper

HOW MUCH:

Online presale tickets: adults $20, youth lawn seating $15; VIP seating and food $75. No refunds.

DETAILS:

The rodeo will be held rain or shine.

MORE INFORMATION: culpeperrodeo.com

Great Meadow July 4th Celebration

Celebrate the holiday with a vendor village, kids zone, aerial shows, live music and of course “The Big Boom” at Great Meadow in the Plains.

WHEN:

Saturday, July 4. Gates open at 4 p.m.

WHERE:

Great Meadow, 5089 Old Tavern Road, The Plains, 20198

MORE DETAILS: gmjuly4th.com

C’ville Spectacular Fireworks Show

Gather your friends and family and celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday at Carter Mountain Orchard. The event features front row seats for the C’ville Spectacular fireworks show.

WHEN:

Saturday, July 4, 5:30-9:30 p.m.

WHERE:

Carter Mountain Orchard, 1435 Carters Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, 22901

MORE DETAILS: chilesfamilyorchards.com/calendar/ happy-birthday-america-2026

BY IRELAND HAYES/FOOTHILLS FORUM

Wheels and Warbirds Coming to Culpeper Airport for America 250 Celebration

To celebrate America 250, the Capital Wing of the Commemorative Air Force will present a special Wheels and Warbirds event featuring a classic and exotic car show, plus World War II-era aircraft at Culpeper Regional Airport for one day only on Saturday, July 11.

The event will be open to the public from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with free parking and free admission. Warbird rides are available at prices to fit every budget from $325 to $995. Advance car show registration is $20 per car. Culpeper Regional Airport is on Beverly Ford Road off Route 15/29 in Elkwood.

Also appearing at the Wheels and Warbirds event will be various military vehicles, reenactors, a Civil War balloon presentation, static warbirds, the Capital Wing PX (Post

eXchange) selling all kinds of aviation and military swag, a B-26 bomber turret and a T-33 jet ejection seat. The New Dominion Band will perform live at the event and a French Alouette, the world’s first jet powered helicopter, will provide a demonstration flight. Two food trucks will be on site.

Warbird rides will be offered in a TBM Avenger torpedo bomber, Boeing PT-17 Stearman biplane and a Fairchild UC-61 Forwarder. Other warbirds on the flight line will include a Vultee BT-13, North American SNJ, Stinson OY-1, Piper L-4 Grasshopper and a Japanese Fuji LM-1. If available, a replica of a rare Japanese A6M Zero fighter will be on static display.

Due to the limited number of available warbird flights and show cars, attendees are

Stay. Explore. Your Easy Escape to Virginia Wine Country

Just minutes from downtown Culpeper along scenic Route 29, Prince Michel Vineyard & Winery and Tap 29 Brewery offer the perfect stop for your next Virginia road trip.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing afternoon tasting, a weekend getaway or a spontaneous summer adventure, Prince Michel brings together awardwinning wines, craft beer, casual dining and overnight accommodations all in one destination.

Celebrating over 40 years of Virginia winemaking, Prince Michel continues its tradition of excellence under awardwinning winemaker Bryan Jones, crafting wines that showcase the best of Virginia wine country. Guests can enjoy standout selections, including the Governor’s Cup Gold Medalwinning 2024 Petit Manseng, while enjoying live music and relaxing among scenic vineyard views.

This summer, celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with Prince Michel’s limited-edition commemorative wine or our collectible Tap 29 250th Celebration beer glass – available exclusively at the winery and brewery while supplies last.

Looking for something refreshing for the road ahead? Be sure to try the SASS Wine Cellars canned wine collection featuring four fun and flavorful wines crafted for road trips, concerts, campfires and pool-side summer adventures.

Want to extend your stay? Cozy on-site accommodations make it easy to turn a quick stop into a memorable weekend escape.

encouraged to purchase rides and registration in advance through the Capital Wing website: CapitalWingCAF.org

“For many people, flying in a warbird is a true bucket-list item, a rare chance to step into the past and experience these historic aircraft,” said Pete Ballard, event organizer for the Capital Wing.

“These aren’t museum pieces sitting behind ropes – they’re living pieces of our nation’s heritage,” Ballard added. “We’re excited to bring that experience to the greater Culpeper community and give people a chance to connect with the past in a way they’ll never forget. At the same time the public can see some outstanding classic and exotic cars on display.”

VISITORS CAN ALSO ENJOY:

• Wine and Craft Beer Flights & Tastings

• Casual Dining at the Tap 29 Pub

• Unique Finds in the Gift Shop

• Wine & Brew Clubs

• Self-Guided Tours

• Live Music Every Weekend Friday-Saturday

• Monday Night Trivia from 6-7:30 p.m.

• Happy Hour every Thursday from 3-5 p.m.

Worth the Detour. Only at Prince Michel.

PLAN YOUR VISIT AT: www.princemichel.com

154 Winery Lane, Leon, VA 1-800-800-WINE (9463)

Celebrate the 90th Anniversary of Virginia State Parks

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is celebrating the 90th anniversary of Virginia State Parks in June, marking nine decades of conserving and stewarding the state’s natural, scenic, cultural and historic resources.

Efforts to establish a statewide park system in Virginia were led by the State Commission on Conservation and Recreation in the 1920s. The commission brought together leaders who

understood the importance of protecting Virginia’s natural resources.

Their early vision for the park system came to fruition on June 15, 1936, when Virginia opened six state parks simultaneously. Today, the park system has grown to 44 parks, and the commission, now known as the Department of Conservation and Recreation, is celebrating its 100th anniversary.

“Virginia’s state parks are built on the idea

that our natural and cultural treasures should be protected and accessible to everyone,” said Nikki Rovner, director of the department. “As we celebrate these milestones, we honor the people who initiated this journey and recommit ourselves to ensuring Virginia’s outdoors continue to inspire and serve future generations.”

To honor the anniversary of Virginia State Parks, the system will host History and Culture Weekend on June 13 and 14. This statewide event gives visitors the chance to explore the park system's legacy through family-friendly programs held across the state.

Each participating park will highlight its unique cultural heritage, historical significance and the communities that helped build and sustain it.

Events throughout the weekend will include:

• Ranger-led history hikes and tours

• Exhibits and demonstrations showcasing traditional skills

• Storytelling sessions, cultural presentations and guest speakers

• Interactive programs for children

• Opportunities to learn about historic structures, conservation efforts and the evolution of the park system

“For 90 years, people from all walks of life have found meaning, inspiration and community at Virginia State Parks,” said Dave Collett, acting assistant director of park operations. “We're honored to carry forward a legacy that has protected and shaped the outdoor experience in Virginia for decades.”

MORE INFORMATION

To learn more about History and Culture Weekend or to find a special event near you, visit dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/history-culture-day.

Catoctin Creek transforms tasting room

From dinosaurs to gardening and everything in between, Prince William Public Libraries offers more than 350 free programs to spark curiosity, creativity and connection for all ages.

Designed to transform the tasting room from a traditional sampling counter into a welcoming cocktail destination, the updates focus on comfort, service and a more refined presentation of the distillery’s award-winning spirits. The changes are largely due to the recent passage of state legislation that allows distilleries to pour larger amounts of their spirits per customer. For more details, please see catoctincreek.com.

Tea Distinguishes McAllister’s Deli

wine tasting to weekend