This Month, Check Out the Wednesday Lunch Concerts at Harris Pavilion

If you work in Old Town Manassas, this summer presents a new, fun way to enjoy your lunch break. The Wednesday Lunch Concerts at Harris Pavilion are happening every week through the end of August from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., right over your midday break. It's the perfect opportunity to escape the office and regroup after a grueling morning.

Pack a picnic lunch or grab something at the 10-plus eateries scattered around Old Town. There are many within walking distance of the Harris Pavilion, making it easy to pick up lunch and still have time to enjoy the show. An eclectic mix of musicians and bands populate the lineup with each week offering something a bit different. Since the concerts are free, and tables and chairs are set up for listeners, it couldn't be easier to soak up some tunes on your lunch break.

Public Domain/Pixabay/dlohner

On Aug. 6, Attend a Free Book Talk with Author David T. Gilbert at the Manassas Museum

Virgina is a state with unrivaled history, much of which is deeply rooted in the Civil War. Many have been able to delve into this history through the written word, including author David Gilbert, who recently penned the novel “Civil War Battlefields: Walking the Trails of History." Lucky for history buffs, Mr. Gilbert will be gracing Manassas with a book talk on August 6th at 1:30 p.m. at the Manassas Museum.

The book covers a rich historical recap of over thirty battles fought in Virginia throughout the duration of the Civil War. From the famous Gettysburg to the lesser-known Antietam, there isn’t a detail that has been missed. The book covers not only topography and geographical information on each and every site but also provides detailed historical maps, insight into military conduct during the battles, and an insider look at information not readily available to all eyes. It’s a truly enlightening novel, and you can be sure that Mr. Gilbert will have even more tales to tell at the book talk.

Mark Your Calendars for Battle Street Live in Old Town Manassas

Music lovers can unite during Battle Street Live, a summer concert series taking place in Old Town Manassas. Hosted by beloved downtown restaurants Okra’s, Monza, and Badwolf Public House, this event brings all sorts of music genres together. You may have guessed the host location is Battle Street, so grab some friends and a couple chairs and camp out for a perfect summer night.

Each weekend evening you’ll be serenaded by a different performer or group (check out the entire schedule online). The weekend of August 3-5 promises to bring no shortage of talent with five concerts total. Kicking off the weekend on Friday evening is indie sensation Leon Rector at 6 p.m. Then Saturday you can catch two shows, Caleb Hacker at 5:30 p.m. and Chugalug with a mix of pop and rock classics at 9 p.m. Sunday you’ll get two more great ones with Zack Quintana at 5 p.m. and Mandatory Recess at 9 p.m. All shows you don’t want to miss, so pencil them in now!

Head to the Mariachis Tequila and Taco Festival in Manassas on July 28

Mariachis Tequileria and Restaurant won't just be celebrating National Tequila Day for a single day. Tequila is such an important part of the menu at Mariachis that the eatery will celebrate the spirit all week long, from July 24th to the 28th. And to round out the week of fun, Mariachis Tequila and Taco Festival takes over the evening of Friday, the 28th.

In honor of the event, Mariachis will be dishing out its own authentic Mexican food and also invite other vendors to come and do the same. The Bone will be on hand serving up its classic Southern barbecue, while the Grilled Reaper food truck brings its gourmet tacos and treats. Live music, Mexican beer, and, of course, plenty of tequila and margaritas are also on the itinerary for Mariachis Tequila and Taco Festival. Purchase your $8 general admission ticket today to ensure you have a spot at the fun event.

Cool Off as You Zoom Down a Slide at Splashdown Waterpark

On a hot, sunny day in Manassas, Splashdown Waterpark is a popular place to cool off. The park recently opened its gates for the summer, meaning it's time to brave the Pipeline Slide Tower. Two enclosed slides twist around the four-story tower, shooting riders from the launchpad up top into a pool of sparkling blue water below. You could say the same about the cannonball slides, which promise a big splash when you land in the pool.

If you're looking for a leisurely activity, head to the Lazy River. Climb atop an inner tube and float slowly along its 770 feet of gently ebbing winding waters. You can also splash around in the activity and leisure pools, pack with floaties and fun, or attempt to hop from one water-top lily pad to the next with only a net above to hold onto. The kids' play area is a great place for families to hang out as it features smaller slides, fountains, and even a 250-ton sand beach. After playing the water, refuel at Woody's Pizza, Barefoot BBQ, or one of the other on-site eateries.

Public Domain/Pixabay/zsoravecz

How to Spend July Fourth in Manassas

To find one of the splashiest fireworks displays in Northern Virginia, look no further than Celebrate America right here in Manassas. This massive 4th of July Festival launches with a day-long bash in Historic Downtown Manassas and culminates with a stunning fireworks show.

Come to the train depot, Harris Pavilion, or Manassas Museum at 3 p.m. to begin having some holiday fun. This is when the kiddie rides open up for families. Then at 4 p.m., food vendors and crafters welcome guests to their booths. Explore and enjoy until 9:15 p.m., when you should take up your post on the museum lawn (preferably with a blanket or lawn chairs) for the fireworks show. Admission to the lawn is free, but if you're interested in getting a closer look at the fireworks, buy a ticket to the bash atop the downtown parking garage roof. It includes food, drink, and front-row seats to the action.

Sip a Pint at Heritage Brewing Company

There's a lot to love about Heritage Brewing Company. The Manassas-based brewery was founded by veterans in 2013 and continues to be run by veterans, so sipping a pint of beer here is a patriotic act. These vets weren't just concerned with earning a livelihood, they wanted to earn it in the right way. So they spent tons of time brainstorming ways to make their brewery as sustainable as possible, and they only craft organic brews.

Keep these facts in mind when you come to the Taproom. Each beer here is special. The flagship brews include the Freedom Isn't Free IPA, Kings Mountain Scotch Ale, and American Expedition Honey Ginger Wheat Ale. Heritage also crafts seasonal suds and limited-series beers, such as the Legendary American Spirit, a Session IPA that pairs well with summery foods such as garden salads and barbecue.

See What’s In Store at Totally Vintage Designs in Manassas

Totally Vintage Design houses a varied mix of trendy clothing and jewelry, DIY and crafting tools, glassware and gifts, and other trinkets and keepsakes. It's a fun spot in Manassas to go and browse, especially if you're searching for the perfect present for a friend or something sweet to spruce up your apartment or wardrobe.

Peruse the colorful collection of high-end candles, each emanating a sweet fragrance that will instantly bring an element of serenity to any room. Check out the vintage home accents, like whitewashed rocking chairs and rustic wooden wall hangings. You can also bring home some materials to create your own home decor, like the Faux Real Mineral Paint. Free of any harsh chemicals and available in a wide array of hues, this eco-friendly paint will beautifully refinish a cute thrift store find.

The Harris Pavilion’s Take Out Tuesday Concert Series Kicks Off on June 6

As the air warms and the flowers bloom, it's the perfect time to head outside and drink in some fresh air. The Take Out Tuesday Concerts at the Harris Pavilion provides an opportunity to do just that. Every Tuesday (except July 4th) through the end of August, the Pavilion hosts a performance by one of the area's top artists.

The concert series kicks off with local band Eddie's Mom on June 6th and then moves through a roster of eclectic musicians until August 29th, when Gary Smallwood closes out the summer. Before you pull up a piece of lawn at the evening concert, stop at an Old Town restaurant for a takeout dinner. You'll receive 10% off your meal on Take Out Tuesday Concert nights. If you still need a snack after dinner, you might be able to find one at the small farmers' market that accompanies the concerts in the park.

Public Domain/Pixabay/Larisa-K

All Aboard for the 23rd Annual Heritage Railway Festival on June 3!

All aboard! Mark your calendars for the 23rd Annual Heritage Railway Festival taking over the rails on Saturday, June 3. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. you’ll be able to bask in the sun while soaking up entertainment all around, then take a ride on an excursion train to Clifton and back again.

The excursions will boast special guests like Chase from Paw Patrol and Belle from Beauty and the Beast to truly make your kiddos' day. Chase will take the morning trips at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. with Belle running the show in the afternoon at noon and 1 p.m. Beyond excursions, you’ll enjoy tons of live music and artisans, food for when you work up an appetite, and more!

You can grab your tickets at the Train Depot or online until the event. They’re only $5 per person if you pay cash or $6 per person if you pay by credit card.

Public Domain/Pixabay/jfulgham

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