What's Happening in Prince William County, Virginia: Your Weekly Guide
Welcome to your weekly guide to everything happening in Prince William County, Virginia. This page is updated every Monday with the latest restaurants, events, activities, and community news so you always know what is going on in Manassas, Gainesville, Haymarket, Woodbridge, Bristow, and beyond.
Whether you are a longtime resident, considering moving to the area, or just visiting for the weekend, this is your go-to resource for living well in Prince William County. Bookmark this page and check back each week for fresh recommendations and local insights.
Prince William County offers an incredible quality of life from historic downtown Manassas to the rolling hills of Gainesville and the Potomac River waterfront in Woodbridge. There is always something new to discover, and we are here to help you find it.
Happy first day of school! Prince William County Public Schools begin the 2026-2027 academic year today, August 24. Wishing students, teachers, and families a wonderful year ahead.
Restaurant of the Week
The Black Sheep Restaurant in Manassas
Location: 9935 Discovery Boulevard, Manassas, VA 20109
Cuisine: Modern American with Southern and global influences, featuring shared plates, hearty entrees, and craft cocktails in a restored historic barn setting
What to Order: The Bacon Tower is a must-order signature starter: candied Nueske bacon torched tableside with a bourbon glaze ($16). For the main course, the Pulled Short Rib Rigatoni ($35) is a rich, slow-braised favorite, and the Jambalaya Pasta ($26) delivers a spicy Creole kick. Save room for the Bourbon Butter Cake ($16), a house-made Southern classic that regulars rave about. Start with a barrel-aged Old Fashioned from the craft cocktail menu.
Price Range: $20 to $80 per person; shared plates $14 to $20, entrees $20 to $35
Atmosphere: Housed in the historic 1929 Thomasson Barn, The Black Sheep offers a stunning rustic-industrial space with soaring exposed-beam vaulted ceilings, crystal chandeliers over every table, and warm Edison bulb lighting. The setting strikes a rare balance between polished fine dining and comfortable farmhouse charm. The restaurant has an open kitchen, a full bar with craft cocktails, and both indoor and seasonal patio seating. Business casual is recommended but not required.
The Black Sheep has quickly become a go-to date night and celebration destination in Prince William County since opening, earning strong ratings across review platforms for its creative menu, attentive service, and unforgettable ambiance. Open Monday through Thursday 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
Updated August 24, 2026
Community Events This Week
Here are the top events happening across Prince William County this week, August 24 through August 30, 2026. Events and dates are sourced from official county listings and local venues.
First Day of School: Prince William County Public Schools
Date: Monday, August 24, 2026
Locations: District-wide across Prince William County
Details: The 2026-2027 academic year begins today for all 90,000+ students in Prince William County Public Schools. The last day of school is scheduled for Thursday, June 17, 2027. Welcome back, students and educators.
For the full academic calendar including holidays, teacher workdays, and early release schedules, visit the official PWCS website at pwcs.edu.
Historic Manassas Farmers Market
Time: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Location: Harris Pavilion, 9201 Center Street, Manassas
Cost: Free entry
The Thursday edition of Manassas's beloved farmers market. Late August is the absolute peak of Virginia's growing season: vine-ripened tomatoes, sweet corn, peaches, melons, fresh basil, and cut flowers are abundant. Arrive early for the best selection of artisan breads, local honey, and farm-fresh eggs.
Prince William County Farmers Market & Long Family Farmers Market
Time: 3:00 to 7:00 PM (PWC) · 2:00 to 7:00 PM (Long Family)
Locations: 7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge · 2300 Opitz Boulevard, Woodbridge (Sentara parking lot)
Cost: Free entry
Two Thursday afternoon markets in Woodbridge serving the eastern side of the county. Perfect for picking up fresh ingredients for dinner after work. The Long Family market at Sentara offers a convenient location just off Opitz Boulevard.
Bristoe Station Battlefield Guided Tours
Time: 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM (both Saturday and Sunday)
Location: Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park, 10112 Aden Road, Bristow
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
The fourth weekend of the month brings free guided tours of this preserved Civil War battlefield, the site of the 1863 Battle of Bristoe Station. Expert-led walking tours explore the history, strategy, and stories of the battle. Self-guided trails are also available daily from dawn to dusk.
Gainesville Central Farm Market
Time: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: 7500 Old Linton Hall Road, Gainesville
Cost: Free entry
A vibrant Saturday morning market serving western Prince William County with fresh local produce, meats, baked goods, and artisan crafts. August produce is at its peak, so stock up on tomatoes, corn, melons, and peaches.
Dale City Farmers Market & Haymarket Farmers Market
Time: 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM (Dale City) · 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM (Haymarket)
Locations: 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City · 15000 Washington Street, Haymarket
Cost: Free entry
Two excellent Sunday markets serving the eastern and western ends of the county. The Dale City market at the former DMV building site offers ample parking, while the Haymarket market is located right on Washington Street in the historic town center.
Featured Artist: Maggie Hillen at The Loft Gallery
Time: Gallery hours vary (check website)
Location: The Loft Gallery, 313 Mill Street, Occoquan
Cost: Free
Oil paintings by artist Maggie Hillen remain on display through September 6 at this charming gallery in historic Occoquan. A beautiful stop during a weekend visit to the waterfront town and its unique shops and restaurants.
Ben Lomond Historic Site Guided Tours
Time: 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, Friday through Monday
Location: 10321 Sudley Manor Drive, Manassas
Cost: $5 per person, children under 6 free
Tour the historic 1830s plantation house turned Civil War hospital, surrounded by 2.5 acres of formal gardens. The property offers a fascinating glimpse into Prince William County's layered past, from its early agricultural history through the Civil War period.
Updated August 24, 2026
Local News and Developments
Prince William County continues to grow and transform. Here is what is new this week.
POP MART Opens at Potomac Mills
The popular collectible toy and art brand POP MART opened its doors at Potomac Mills mall on August 21, bringing a trendy destination for figurine collectors, art toy enthusiasts, and fans of the brand's signature "Molly" and "Dimoo" characters. The store features blind box toys, art figures, and accessories in a vibrant, Instagram-friendly retail space. POP MART joins the mall's portfolio of more than 200 stores and marks another step in Potomac Mills' ongoing evolution as a shopping destination.
Prince William County Launches 311 Signage to Curb Panhandling
The county unveiled new "Give 311, Not Cash" signage at major intersections on August 21, directing community members to call 311 to donate to local nonprofit organizations instead of giving money to panhandlers. The initiative is designed to redirect charitable giving to verified nonprofits that provide housing, food, and supportive services to individuals in need. The signs were placed at high-traffic intersections across the county as part of a broader effort to address the root causes of panhandling while supporting the nonprofit network.
Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger Announces Resignation
Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger announced on August 21 that she will resign effective September 30, 2026, citing personal reasons. First elected in 2022, Davis-Younger served as the city's first Black mayor. The Manassas City Council will determine the process for appointing an interim mayor to serve out the remainder of her term through the next election cycle.
$93 Million Parkway-Clover Hill Interchange Advances
The county held its first public meeting on August 4 for the $93 million interchange project at Prince William Parkway and Clover Hill Road in Dale City. The project aims to significantly reduce congestion at one of the county's busiest intersections and improve safety for all users. The redesign will include new turn lanes, improved pedestrian crossings, and traffic signal upgrades. Construction is expected to begin in phases over the coming years.
Hepburn and Sons Headquarters Coming to Innovation Park
Hepburn and Sons LLC, a Virginia-based defense engineering and consulting firm, announced an $18.1 million investment to establish a new corporate headquarters at Prince William's Innovation Park in Manassas. The project is expected to create 80 new jobs and received a $400,000 state grant. The headquarters is slated to be fully operational by summer 2028.
Parks Director Seth Hendler-Voss Selected as Falls Church City Manager
Prince William County Parks and Recreation Director Seth Hendler-Voss was selected as the new Falls Church city manager on August 22. During his tenure at Prince William County, Hendler-Voss oversaw significant expansion of the county's park system, including new playgrounds, trail connections, and community recreation programs. A nationwide search for his successor will be conducted by the county.
Updated August 24, 2026
Things to Do This Weekend
This weekend (August 29-30) is the last full weekend of summer before Labor Day. Make the most of these late August days with outdoor adventures, history, and community markets across Prince William County.
Outdoor Activities
- Prince William Forest Park
Explore 37 miles of hiking trails at this 15,000-acre national park in Triangle, VA. The South Valley Trail (7.8 miles) offers a full-day adventure through mature forest, while the Birch Bluff Trail (1.8 miles) is a shorter option with creek access. The park is a National Park Service gem, operated by the NPS with a small entrance fee.
- Leesylvania State Park
This 508-acre Potomac River park in Woodbridge offers five hiking trails, boat launch ramps, a fishing pier, and a beach. Late August is a beautiful time to visit as the river breezes keep things comfortable. Open daily from dawn to dusk.
- Neabsco Creek Boardwalk
Walk the scenic three-quarter-mile boardwalk through the Neabsco Creek wetlands in Woodbridge. This elevated path offers excellent birdwatching, interpretive signs about the local ecosystem, and beautiful marsh views. A peaceful escape that feels far from the suburbs.
History and Culture
- Bristoe Station Battlefield Guided Tours
Free guided walking tours at Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park in Bristow, Saturday and Sunday at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. Expert guides share the history of the 1863 Civil War battle. Self-guided trails are open dawn to dusk daily. Located at 10112 Aden Road, Bristow.
- Visit Historic Occoquan
Stroll the charming waterfront town of Occoquan with its unique boutiques, art galleries including The Loft Gallery (featuring Maggie Hillen's oil paintings through September 6), and waterfront dining. The historic mill town along the Occoquan River is a favorite weekend destination for locals and visitors alike.
- Ben Lomond Historic Site
Tour the 1830s historic house and gardens Friday through Monday, with guided tours at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM. This former plantation house served as a Civil War hospital and sits on 2.5 acres of restored gardens in Manassas.
Family Activities
- Splashdown Waterpark
Located at Ben Lomond Regional Park in Manassas, Splashdown features waterslides, a lazy river, and splash pads. Still operating its summer schedule before Labor Day weekend, this is a perfect way to beat the late August heat. Weekends are busier, so arrive early.
- Farmers Market Run
Saturday morning at the Gainesville Central Farm Market or Sunday at the Dale City or Haymarket farmers markets. Late August is peak season for Virginia produce, so load up on tomatoes, sweet corn, peaches, and melons while supporting local farmers.
Date Night Ideas
- Dinner at The Black Sheep Restaurant + Evening in Manassas
Enjoy modern American cuisine at this stunning restaurant housed in the historic Thomasson Barn on Discovery Boulevard. Start with the Bacon Tower torched tableside, share the Pulled Short Rib Rigatoni, and finish with Bourbon Butter Cake. After dinner, explore Innovation Park or head to Old Town Manassas for a post-meal stroll.
- Sunset at Leesylvania State Park
Pack a picnic and watch the sunset over the Potomac River from the fishing pier or beach at this Woodbridge park. The park is open until dusk, and the views across the river to Maryland are spectacular as the sun goes down.
Updated August 24, 2026
Market Spotlight: Prince William County Real Estate
Understanding the local real estate market is essential whether you are buying, selling, or simply curious about your home's value. Here is the latest data for Prince William County through summer 2026, sourced from the Prince William Area Realtors Association (PWAR) and Bright MLS.
The Prince William County housing market continues to show strong momentum according to the latest PWAR data. In June 2026, 663 homes closed across the county, representing an 18.2% increase compared to June 2025. Year-to-date closed sales are up 12.1%, signaling robust buyer demand even as the market shifts toward balance.
The median sold price reached $599,450 in May 2026, up 3.4% year over year. Inventory has risen to a five-year high, with active listings up more than 30% compared to the same period in 2025. This growing supply gives buyers more options and more negotiating room than they have had in recent years. Days on market have climbed to a range of 36 to 47 days, up from approximately 21 days in 2025, indicating the market is cooling from its peak frenzy into a more sustainable pace.
Single-family detached homes typically range from $625,000 to $730,000 depending on location and condition, while townhomes and condos average approximately $410,000 to $575,000. According to the Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS 2026 Regional Housing Market Forecast, single-family home prices in Prince William County are expected to hold essentially flat with a slight decline of 0.2% from 2025 to 2026, while townhome prices are forecast to rise about 1.9% and condo prices about 1.5%.
Submarket variation remains significant. Gainesville and Haymarket homes typically range from $640,000 to $749,000, while Woodbridge and Triangle sit closer to $507,000 to $533,000. Mortgage rates near 6% continue to keep buyer activity measured but active, and new communities like Quartz District in Dale City will continue adding supply in the townhome and attached home segments.
Updated August 24, 2026
Community Spotlight
Each week we feature a local organization making a difference in Prince William County.
House of Mercy
About: Founded in 2005, House of Mercy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that operates the largest food pantry in Prince William County. Located at 8170 Flannery Court in Manassas, the organization serves thousands of families each month who are facing food insecurity, housing instability, and other critical needs.
Core Programs: House of Mercy runs a comprehensive food pantry that distributes fresh produce, shelf-stable goods, and personal care items to individuals and families in need. Beyond food assistance, the organization provides case management, financial literacy education, and referrals to partner agencies for housing, healthcare, and employment support. During the holiday season, House of Mercy's annual Thanksgiving and Christmas distributions serve hundreds of families with full holiday meals and gifts.
Why We Love Them: House of Mercy has been a lifeline for Prince William County families for over 20 years. The organization was recognized as a Prince William Living Giving Back Award nominee in 2026 for its unwavering commitment to serving the community's most vulnerable residents. Their approach goes beyond simply distributing food; they work to address the root causes of poverty through education, advocacy, and dignified service delivery.
Get Involved: Visit houseofmercyva.org, call (703) 659-4686, or stop by the distribution center at 8170 Flannery Court, Manassas, VA 20109. Food donations are accepted during operating hours, and volunteers are always welcome to help sort and pack groceries.
Updated August 24, 2026
Seasonal Highlights: Late Summer 2026
Late August in Prince William County is the peak of summer abundance before the transition to fall. Here is what to enjoy right now.
Farmers Market Season at Its Peak
Late August is the absolute peak of Virginia's growing season. The Historic Manassas Farmers Market (Thursdays and Saturdays), Dale City Farmers Market (Sundays), Haymarket Farmers Market (Sundays), and Gainesville Central Farm Market (Saturdays) are bursting with tomatoes, sweet corn, peaches, melons, okra, eggplant, basil, and cut flowers at their absolute best. This is the time of year to stock up for canning, freezing, and enjoying summer's bounty at its finest.
Last Days of Summer Waterpark Season
Splashdown Waterpark in Manassas is operating its summer schedule through Labor Day weekend. With August temperatures still reaching the 80s and 90s, it is not too late to enjoy the slides, lazy river, and splash pads. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, making this a great week for a final visit.
First Day of School
Today, August 24, marks the first day of the 2026-2027 academic year for Prince William County Public Schools. After a summer break, students are back in classrooms through the last day of school on June 17, 2027. The Virginia tax-free weekend for school supplies took place August 7-9, giving families a savings window before the school year began.
Looking Ahead to Fall
As summer winds down, start planning for fall events. The Manassas Fall Jubilee typically takes place in September, autumn festivals at local farms kick off after Labor Day, and the changing leaves at Prince William Forest Park peak in mid-to-late October. The first hints of cooler weather usually arrive by mid-September, and fall is a spectacular season for hiking at the county's many parks and trails.
Updated August 24, 2026
Thinking About Moving to Prince William County?
Contact Barbara and Douglas Jennings for expert guidance on homes in Manassas, Gainesville, Haymarket, Woodbridge, Bristow, or anywhere in Prince William County. From 55+ communities to single-family homes, condos, and townhomes, they know the market inside and out.
Phone: 540-840-1133 · Email: Yourexpertadvisors@gmail.com
Schedule a Personalized Community TourInformation deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Restaurant details, event dates, and market data are current as of the publication date and may change without notice. Always confirm event details with the official organizer. Some sources for market data: Prince William Area Realtors Association (PWAR), Northern Virginia Association of REALTORS (NVAR), Bright MLS. Information does not constitute professional advice. Equal Housing Opportunity.