Prince William Living January 2026

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GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM

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NEW YEAR, NEW HOBBIES

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WINTER COMFORT RECIPES

prince william living January 2026

The premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas

Financial & Physical Health PAGE 4

Williams Ordinary PAGE 8

Want to Be a Prince William Star?

PAGE 20 princewilliamliving.com

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table of contents January 2026 | Vol. 16 | No. 1

FEATURE STORY Financial & Physical Health: Prioritizing Both for a Better Year

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DEPARTMENTS

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12

FROM THE PUBLISHER New Year, Same Great Content

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DESTINATIONS Williams Ordinary: Linking Dumfries Past to Its Future

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GIVING BACK Give Back Prince William: Helping Nonprofits Be Seen, Heard, and Supported 10 FAMILY FUN New Year, New Hobbies

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LOCAL FLAVOR Easy Winter Comfort Recipes for Busy Families

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ON A HIGH NOTE Want to Be a Prince William Star?

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CALENDAR

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COLUMNS YOUR FINANCES HEALTH & WELLNESS HOME & HEARTH

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12 14 24

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prince william living Rebecca Barnes

PRINCE WILLIAM LIVING PUBLISHER rbarnes@princewilliamliving.com OPERATIONS COORDINATOR David Lezcano, admin@princewilliamliving.com ONLINE EDITOR Carole Keily, news@princewilliamliving.com GIVE BACK PRINCE WILLIAM INITIATIVE info@givebackpw.org EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER Diane Puigdomenech, dpuigdomenech@princewilliamliving.com

Erin Pittman EDITOR IN CHIEF epittman@princewilliamliving.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Rebecca Barnes, Steffany Cartellone, Carla Christiano, Katherine Gotthardt, Erin Pittman, Bennett Whitlock SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Katherine Gotthardt GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Alison Dixon/ImagePrep Studio

VISIBILITY PACKAGES sales@princewilliamliving.com SUBSCRIPTIONS info@princewilliamliving.com

Prince William Living, the premier lifestyle magazine of Prince William and Greater Manassas, is published monthly by Prince William Living, Inc. The opinions expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Prince William Living. © Copyright 2025 by Prince William Living, Inc. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced or translated without written permission.

Visit the Prince William Living website at www.princewilliamliving.com for reprint permission.

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2 | January 2026 prince william living

from the Publisher New Year, Same Great Content

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appy New Year! Cheers to the start of a wonderful year. Start the year strong by taking care of both your physical and financial health. Never thought about how those two things are linked? Read our feature for some terrific tips to enrich and support both areas of your life.

We’ve got additional ways for you to enrich your life in 2026 throughout this issue. Dip into some rich Prince William history in Destinations. Carla Christiano offers up a detailed account of Williams Ordinary. Perhaps you’re looking for creative enrichment and wish to launch your stage career. Our On a High Note piece provides information on area acting groups and how to get involved.

Sometimes the best enriching activities occur at home. Maybe your culinary creativity has been dying to show itself. In Local Flavor, I’ve compiled easy winter comfort recipes for those cold January days. Follow the recipes or add in your own culinary flair! And who better to find fulfillment with than your family?

Erin Pittman suggests finding a new hobby as a family and provides a variety of ideas to get you started in Family Fun. It wouldn’t be one of our issues without a nod to the nonprofits giving back all around us. In this month’s Giving Back article, I share the details of our mission at Give Back Prince William.

Help us help nonprofits in our area by donating or subscribing to the magazine.

There’s even more to discover in Health & Wellness, Home & Hearth, and Your Finances, so cozy up and read on.

Wishing you a prosperous–and warm!–new year!

Rebecca Barnes

Publisher, Prince William Living Magazine

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FINANCIAL & PHYSICAL HEALTH

Prioritizing Both for a Better Year

By Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt

T

he connection between financial and physical well-being is a strong one. Area experts agree that money matters can significantly influence a person’s overall quality of life. Even so, the critical ability to prioritize health while making ends meet is often overlooked, especially during challenging times.

According to John Marshall Bank, “Major sources of financial strain such as divorce or losing a job have ripple effects that affect not only you but your family and the people you care for.”

Financial strain also negatively impacts mental health which has a direct relation to physical health, they said. For example, research shows some people may experience symptoms of major depression—which can be brought about by losing a job or home or a death in the family. These symptoms may include a lack of

4 | January 2026 prince william living

personal hygiene, decrease in energy, unhealthy eating and coping habits, and more.

Other issues, like falling victim to fraud, especially if the victim is an older adult, place strain on them and their caregiver making affording medication and medical care much more difficult “When you're financially stable, you can devote your time, energy, and money into things that better your physical health: eating healthier, a gym membership or just time to exercise in general, doctor's appointments for preventative care instead of reactionary care,” they explained. But still, life often gets in the way.

Ken Bernard, M.D., M.B.A., chief clinical officer for UVA Health Prince William and Haymarket Medical Centers, and Zan Zaidi,

budget, tracking spending, building an emergency fund, and managing debt not only provide peace of mind but can also reduce stress levels that negatively affect the body. For those missing essential pieces, such as steady income, assessing job opportunities, reaching out to employment agencies and working with financial experts can help. Working with social services and emergency resource organizations may also be key, depending on the situation.

Ken Bernard, M.D., M.B.A.

Zan Zaidi

chief medical officer for UVA Health’s Community Medical Centers and Clinics in Northern Virginia and Culpeper, echo these findings.

“There’s no doubt that financial security plays a pivotal role in reducing stress, better nutrition and eating habits, and motivation to exercise,” Zaidi said. “Financial stability is closely tied to both mental and physical health.”

However, the relationship works both ways. “Good physical health means higher energy levels and greater productivity, which can help improve one’s income,” he explained.

When finances are challenging, healthcare becomes more challenging. Bernard described the phenomenon as “financial toxicity,” a term that refers to the negative financial consequences experienced by patients and their families as a result of medical treatments for chronic conditions.

Experts agree that there are realistic ways to build a healthier life, physically and financially, especially by accessing the right support.

Focusing on finances and health enables people to be better equipped to handle life’s challenges and enjoy a healthier, more secure future. Small changes in financial habits and health routines can have a big impact on overall well-being:

2. Prioritizing Preventive Healthcare

Most medical professionals will say, don’t wait for a problem— schedule routine examinations and preventive screenings. If health costs are a concern, research community clinics or slidingscale providers in the area. The Prince William area has several, including the local health department, GPW Health Center, and services through local hospitals.

3. Managing Financial Stress for Better WellBeing Chronic stress over money can cause high blood pressure, lowered immunity, and unhealthy habits. Consider techniques like mindfulness, exercise, or talking to a financial counselor to help manage anxiety related to finances. Sometimes, just having a plan for managing money can greatly improve mental and physical health.

4. Making Healthy Choices on Any Budget

Healthy eating and regular exercise are not exclusive to those with high incomes. Plan meals, shop sales, and look for affordable, nutritious staples. Explore free or low-cost ways to stay active, such as walking, using online workout videos, or joining community programs. Explore local parks and trails, find others invested in their health, and keep moving.

1. Building a Strong Financial Foundation Establishing financial health means having income stability, manageable debt and the ability to handle expenses. Setting a

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5. Protecting Health and Finances

Remember that poor health can impact your ability to work and increase out-of-pocket expenses. If possible, invest in health insurance, disability insurance or a health savings account. These steps can help protect your finances if you face unexpected health challenges, breaking the cycle between illness and financial strain.

Finding More Support

John Marshall Bank provides resources, products, and services to prevent the kind of downward spiral experienced by those who cannot afford to prioritize health. One resource addresses cases of fraud or abuse. John Marshall Bank offers card and payment controls, alerts, and other ways to ensure customers’ financial safety. More information can be found at johnmarshallbank.com/ resources/security-center.

“Just as it is with any type of scam, recognizing the methods that financial criminals use to deceive and steal from is an important first step in preventing financial abuse,” their website says. This is especially true for seniors.

“We all need to work together to make sure our seniors, their caregivers, families, and friends know the signs to look for that a criminal is after your money,” said FBI Criminal Investigative Division Assistant Director Michael Nordwall in a Facebook post.

On the physical health side, Bernard noted, “Most health systems, including UVA Health, are required to maintain financial assistance and charity care policies. These programs often include assistance or discounted care for patients—both uninsured and underinsured—who need help managing their medical bills.

“Every patient’s financial situation is unique, and health systems, like UVA Health, are committed to offering some form of relief to those in need,” he added.

“Each year, we help thousands of patients find solutions to their billing issues. We help you pay your medical bills with financial

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aid, payment plans, and support for finding the right solution for you,” reads the UVA Health websites.

Find questions and answers at uvahealth.com/support/billing-andinsurance/financial-aid or by searching “UVA Health financial assistance.”

Enjoying this issue of PWL? Get it delivered to your inbox all year long by subscribing at princewilliamliving.com/all-accessmembership.

Katherine Mercurio Gotthardt has written for Prince William Living for more than 10 years. An award-winning author and poet, she is an advocate for mental health and the arts. Learn more about her work at KatherineGotthardt.com.

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Photo courtesy of Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation

destinations

Williams Ordinary

Linking Dumfries Past to Its Future

O

By Carla Christiano

utside the white picket fence of the Williams Ordinary in Dumfries, a steady stream of traffic flows by on Route 1 (Main Street). Few drivers notice the stately brick building standing guard at the corner. It is a remnant from Dumfries’ heyday as a port and county seat, but it’s also key to Dumfries future. “It’s one of those landmarks that tells the story of who we were and who we’re becoming,” said Dumfries Mayor Derrick R. Wood.

Dumfries’ Past and the Ordinary’s Beginnings Once the site of the county courthouse from 1759 to 1822, early Dumfries had schools, a theater/opera house, grist mills, a bakery, a granary, a shipyard, race track, tobacco warehouses, a ferry to Maryland, and taverns and ordinaries. Most of those disappeared years ago. Williams Ordinary still stands—one of three remaining colonial buildings and the only one on Main Street.

Later known as Love’s Tavern and the Stagecoach Inn, Williams Ordinary was built around 1790 and served food and drink (including alcohol). Oral history led historians to initially believe it was built around 1765. Subsequent research and

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dendrochronology, which counts the tree rings of the wood in the building, pushed back the date. “It’s still an old building. It’s just not as old as we thought,” said preservationist Bill Backus with the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation.

By the time the ordinary was built, things were changing in Dumfries. Nearby Quantico Creek was silting in from runoff from surrounding farms and plantations, making the harbor impassable for ships. Businesses left. Despite this, the ordinary’s builders hoped to turn things around by building a grand place “to attract the best people, the best visitors,” he said. The builders constructed a unique structure with all-header bond brickwork more commonly found in Annapolis, Maryland, and Tidewater Virginia, than in Northern Virginia.

Because the ordinary was a public space, it was also the site of some sadder aspects of local history. During the early 1800s, the ordinary held a variety of auctions, including those of enslaved people, said Backus. “It’s a story that we want to make sure is being told. For a lot of these people, that is the only evidence of them in the historical record,” he said.

During the Civil War, the ordinary served as a headquarters for Confederate General Lewis Wigfall, commander of the Texas

Photo courtesy of Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation

Photo courtesy of VDOT

Main Street of Dumfries with Williams Ordinary in background, 1919

Prince William and the Revolutionary War Exhibit at Williams Ordinary

brigade and an ardent secessionist. By the early 1900s, it was converted into a hotel.

Outside will be a park with a memorial to the American Revolution and Prince William’s contributions. “There will be no ball fields or hiking trails. We want to make sure that people can use it as a place to get out and relax,” said Backus.

Because Route 1 was “the main north south highway in the eastern United States, it drives business back to that area. It helps the building survive,” said Backus. With the advent of the interstate highway system in the 1940s and 1950s and less traffic on Route 1, the building was turned into a residence and would remain privately owned for almost 60 years.

County Ownership After more than two years of negotiations, the county purchased the Williams Ordinary and its associated 1.7-acre site in 2007 from its last private owner, Pete Costello, for one million dollars.

The intent, according to news articles at the time, was to return the building to its original purpose.

“When the county purchased it, the idea was to preserve it,” said Backus. They put a protective easement on the property and planned to partner with a private entity to develop it. Then the financial crisis hit in 2008. “The market crashed and not a lot of people were interested in doing a business venture,” he said.

Unable to find any takers for a business, the Office of Historic Preservation decided to move its administrative office to the ordinary. The office is still there on the upstairs floor.

Old Building and a New Use In 2020, conversations began again about what people wanted in Dumfries and what the building could be used for. Community feedback recommended turning the old building into an exhibit space as well as cultural space. Displays inside discuss the history and culture of eastern Prince William as well as the story of Prince William and the Revolutionary War “through the eyes of Prince William residents, from soldier to civilian, from white to black, from free to enslaved,” Backus said. A temporary exhibit on Batestown, a nearby historic African-American community, launches Juneteenth weekend.

With Dumfries’ purchase of 161 acres on nearby Quantico Creek for a future waterfront district, Williams Ordinary is poised for a new era. “We’re viewing this as a unique opportunity to help reimagine the future use for this building because Dumfries is changing,” said Backus.

“It’s hard to get a sense of how big Dumfries was in the 1700s, how important Dumfries was. Williams Ordinary, like some historic buildings, are good cultural historical landmarks in that you can see the history. It helps link that story to us today,” said Backus.

“As we move forward with our Destination Dumfries 2044 Comprehensive Plan, Williams Ordinary will continue doing what it’s always done best: welcoming people in,” said Wood.

“This time, it’s welcoming them into a new era of revitalization, small-business growth and heritage tourism—the same kind of energy that first made Dumfries a destination centuries ago.”

If You Want to Go Hours: By appointment or during special events Address: 17674 Main St., Dumfries Phone: 703-792-1731 Email: historicpreservation@pwcgov.org Website: pwcva.gov/department/historic-preservation/williamsordinary/ Fill your year with history, events, and the latest happenings in Prince William with a subscription to PWL for just $20. Visit princewilliamliving.com/all-access-membership.

Carla Christiano is a Prince William native, admitted history geek, and a government contractor. prince william living January 2026 | 9

giving back Helping Nonprofits Be Seen, Heard, and Supported

By Rebecca Barnes

C

ommunities do not grow on good intentions alone. Progress happens when people decide that their neighbors’ success is worth investing in. Give Back Prince William (GBPW) was founded on that idea. The organization strengthens the nonprofits that educate children, support the arts, encourage volunteerism, and contribute to local economic development. Through communication tools, strategic outreach, and the storytelling platform of Prince William Living, GBPW helps nonprofits gain the visibility they need. When a nonprofit can reach the right audience, the entire community benefits.

Extraordinary Teens Awards Celebrates students who excel in the classroom, volunteer in their neighborhoods, or demonstrate leadership in their schools. The awards support youth development and highlight future leaders.

Mission and Purpose

Best Places to Work Awards Highlights employers that support professional development and a positive workplace culture. The recognition promotes workforce advancement and encourages businesses to invest in their employees.

GBPW is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to build a stronger community by supporting quality-of-life priorities across Prince William. These priorities include education, economic development, the arts, and volunteer service. Prince William Living supports this mission through its commitment to local social responsibility. Together, GBPW and PWL provide nonprofits with a reliable communication channel that helps residents understand the work happening around them.

“Nonprofits work every day to support families, strengthen neighborhoods, and solve problems that many people never see,” said Rebecca Barnes, founder of Give Back Prince William. “Our role is to make sure their work is visible so the community can understand it and support it.”

Quality of Life Award Sponsorships GBPW sponsors and receives proceeds from a series of community awards and events that highlight leadership, service, education, business excellence, and nonprofit impact. These programs celebrate the people and organizations that contribute to a healthier, more connected community.

Influential Women Awards Recognizes women who lead in service and work in fields such as education, business, public service, and nonprofit management.

The recognition encourages leadership development and service and honors women who shape the community's direction.

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Patrick King Art Student Scholarship Assists high school seniors planning to pursue arts education. The scholarship honors the legacy of Patrick King and helps young artists begin their creative careers.

Readers’ Choice Awards Spotlights local businesses and organizations selected directly by community members. The awards encourage residents to support local enterprises.

Giving Back Awards Honors nonprofits, volunteers, and service leaders. These awards highlight organizations that address community needs every day and lift the quality of life in Prince William.

Together, these programs reinforce the importance of leadership, education, arts, workforce development, and volunteer service in regional growth.

How Prince William Living Subscriptions Support GBPW A 12-month subscription to Prince William Living costs $20 and directly funds GBPW’s programs, helping nonprofits with scholarships, visibility, and communication support, strengthening local journalism and community stories.

Marketing Services for Nonprofits Communication is one of the most challenging parts of nonprofit work. Many organizations have limited staff and limited funding for outreach. GBPW helps fill that gap. Services include: n

Public relations and media outreach

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Digital marketing planning

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Google Ads and Facebook Ads management

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Google Grants assistance

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Email marketing support

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Social media content development

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Photography and video

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Event promotion

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Branding and message development

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Graphic design, brochures, and reports

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Website support

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Writing and editing for donor communication and newsletters

These tools help nonprofits reach donors, volunteers, partners, and residents who care about their mission.

A Direct Invitation to Nonprofits If your nonprofit struggles to reach its audience or needs guidance on communications, GBPW invites you to schedule a call. You can request marketing support, explore visibility programs, or apply for a GBPW marketing grant that covers communication services for eligible organizations. To begin, contact rebecca@givebackpw.org or visit givebackpw.org.

Proven Results: Semper K9’s Growth Semper K9 demonstrates the value of early communication support.

When the organization was first created, co-founder Amanda Baity worked closely with Rebecca Barnes to learn how to introduce the nonprofit to the public. “Rebecca's guidance and advice has helped us reach a new level of donors and clients for our organization, setting us up for success while helping us grow our mission.” said Baity. These early efforts contributed to the organization’s national visibility. Semper K9 has appeared in People Magazine and on the program Returning the Favor with Mike Rowe. The outcome shows how clear messaging and early guidance can help a nonprofit reach far beyond its first audience.

Ways to #givebackpw Residents and organizations can support GBPW in several ways.

Become a Friend of GBPW Your contribution supports GBPW’s mission and helps expand positive media coverage of community issues. Friends receive a 12-

month subscription to Prince William Living and are listed on the GBPW website.

Support a Specific Nonprofit You can direct a contribution to a particular nonprofit, providing it with a visibility package that helps it reach more donors and raise more funds.

Become a Leadership Sponsor Leadership Sponsors support multiple nonprofits through visibility programs and also strengthen GBPW’s mission. Sponsorships can be tailored to fit corporate giving priorities.

Become a Community Partner Community Partners support scholarships, visibility packages, and GBPW initiatives countywide. Recognition appears in print, online, and across PWL and GBPW platforms.

To see details for each participation level, visit givebackpw.org.

Attend GBPW and PWL Events Fundraising events support scholarships and visibility programs.

Community service events create local engagement and encourage volunteer participation.

Share the Mission Telling friends and colleagues about #givebackpw helps expand awareness and strengthen the network of support.

Supporting Economic Development GBPW also supports economic development through two programs. The Connect PW Branding Project helps nonprofits improve their identity and communication materials. Open for Business, a Prince William Living program, promotes small and minority owned businesses and increases their visibility.

Act Now If you want to help strengthen our nonprofits and support the organizations that serve our neighbors every day, now is the time to get involved. You can subscribe, donate, nominate, partner, or volunteer. Every action supports communication, education, the arts, and economic development in Prince William County.

Visit givebackpw.org or email rebecca@givebackpw.org to take the next step today.

Rebecca Barnes is the publisher of Prince William Living and a longtime community storyteller. When she isn’t writing about local leaders, she enjoys time with her grandchildren, volunteering with the OWL Volunteer Fire Department, and planning her next Disney adventure.

prince william living January 2026 | 11

your finances Baby on the Way? Here’s How You Can Prepare Financially

By Bennett C. Whitlock III Private Wealth Advisor

I

f you are expecting a baby, or have recently adopted one into your family, you have likely begun making big plans for the future. One of the most important aspects to consider while preparing for your new arrival is how your financial habits, responsibilities, and goals might change. Here are six things to consider: Evaluate how your goals may evolve. A new baby has a way of adjusting your short-term and long-term goals. According to the Ameriprise Parents & Finances study, 60% of parents are concerned that the financial tradeoffs they’re making today will impact their long-term financial goals1. From childcare to college, planning for the myriad of expenses that come with parenthood can be overwhelming. Consider working with a financial advisor to discuss how your goals may evolve when the new family member arrives.

Think about lifestyle changes. How will your baby impact your day-to-day activities? Incorporate the cost of family outings and increased expenses into your budget to avoid surprises.

Keep in mind that supporting your children in their childcare, hobbies, and healthcare needs will take additional investment.

Childcare can be very expensive, and this cost continues to rise across much of the U.S. So, whether you choose daycare, a nanny, an au pair, an afterschool sitter, or a combination of options, make planning for this expense a priority. If your ideal lifestyle involves a big expenditure, like a new home or car, consult a financial advisor about the pros and cons of making the move today—or further down the road.

Take stock of your career goals. The arrival of a new child may cause you to think differently about your career goals. Perhaps you want to earn a promotion, seek a job with a higher salary or better benefits, or pursue continuing education. Maybe you or your partner are ready to reduce your hours or become a stay-at-home parent. If you are thinking about changing your job status, evaluate how the move may affect your paycheck, retirement savings, and benefits, including any available family leave.

Prepare for tuition. While the cost of childcare may decrease if you choose to send your child to public school, private elementary, or secondary school often comes with a price tag.

Furthermore, the cost of college continues to rise. Consider utilizing a 529 plan, a saving option for educational expenses.

You may withdraw up to $10,000 in federal income tax-free per beneficiary, per year to pay for kindergarten through 12th grade tuition at a public or private school2. And, if funding college tuition is important to you, it’s never too early to start saving.

Plan for the unexpected. Unexpected events can affect your finances at any time. Resolve to build or maintain an emergency fund that could cover three to six months of expenses, in addition to prioritizing your retirement savings.

After your baby arrives, update your estate plan and insurance coverage (e.g. medical, life, disability policies) as necessary.

(Contact your human resources department for details on when the open enrollment deadline is for you.) According to the Parents & Finances survey, one-fifth (21%) of parents do not have updated beneficiaries on their accounts1. No one wants to think about the worst-case scenario, but planning is important. Having updated legacy documents is critical to ensuring your child is best taken care of should the unexpected happen.

Ponder family values. Start thinking about how you want to teach your child about financial responsibility. Will you give him or her an allowance? What is your vision for giving birthday presents, holiday gifts, vacation souvenirs, and other items to your child? What money values do you want to pass down? Being intentional early can help set clear expectations and ensure you and your partner are on the same page.

Expanding your family often has a way of putting your priorities into perspective. If you would like an objective opinion on how to best plan for your goals, talk with a financial advisor in your area.

Bennett C. Whitlock III, CRPC®, is a Private Wealth Advisor and CEO with Whitlock Wealth, a private wealth advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. He specializes in fee-based financial planning and asset management strategies and has been in practice for 30 years. To contact him visit whitlockwealth.com, call 877-WHITLOCK or email whitlockwealth@ampf.com. Offices are located at 12848 Harbor Dr, Ste 101, Lake Ridge, VA 22192 and in Downtown Historic Manassas at 9073 Center Street, Manassas VA 20110. © 2025 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

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A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC 703.492.7732 12848 Harbor Dr, #101 Lake Ridge, VA 22192 whitlockwealth@ampf.com whitlockwealth.com Not FDIC or NCUA Insured | No Financial Institution Guarantee | May Lose Value Securities offered by Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2024 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

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prince william living January 2026 | 13

health & wellness Skincare in Pregnancy: UVA Health OB-GYN Shares What’s Safe and What to Skip Contributed by UVA Community Health

Simpler and Safer

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Though there are a handful of products that may pose a risk, there are still plenty of effective, pregnancy-safe options. In fact, Ng says that pregnancy can be a great time to simplify skincare routines, and often, a fragrance-free, gentle cleanser and basic moisturizer are enough to keep skin healthy.

regnancy transforms nearly every part of daily life for women, from nutrition and exercise to the products they use on their bodies and around the house. Skincare is no exception.

Pregnancy-related hormone changes can cause breakouts, increased sensitivity, or dark spots, and now, that go-to cream or serum may no longer be the safest solution.

Eugene Louie-Ng, MD, an OB-GYN with UVA Health Obstetrics and Gynecology Gainesville, says that with a better understanding of these hormonal changes and potentially harmful ingredients, as well as some simple substitutions, women can feel confident about taking care of their skin and their growing baby’s health.

Ingredients to Avoid Knowing what to avoid makes it easier to build a pregnancysafe routine. Ng shares several ingredients to watch out for, including: n Hydroquinone – Often used as a skin lightener, hydroquinone cream can be effective in treating melasma – brown or gray patches that usually appear on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip – or other types of hyperpigmentation. However, there is limited research about its safety for expectant mothers, so Ng suggests waiting to give it a try until after delivery, especially since many dark spots tend to fade postpartum. n Phthalates – Phthalates are a family of chemicals that are in hundreds of household items, from cosmetics to cleaning supplies. Research shows that regular exposure to these chemicals can negatively impact several organ systems, reproductive health, and child development.

Because phthalates are so prevalent, particularly in scented products, it is difficult to avoid them entirely. Ng says to start by choosing fragrance-free options and be mindful when choosing other common beauty products like lotions and hairsprays. n Retinoids – Anti-aging, night repair, and wrinkle-prevention products often include vitamin A derivatives, such as retinol, tretinoin, and retinyl palmitate. “You ultimately want to avoid things that have retinoids, for example, which can cause birth defects,” he advises. n Tranexamic Acid – Tranexamic acid is an effective and typically safe treatment for dark spots and rosacea, but there is not enough research to confirm its safety for pregnant women. As oral tranexamic acid can increase the risk of blood clots, Ng suggests avoiding both oral and topical forms as a precaution while pregnant.

14 | January 2026 prince william living

“For regular skincare, it is important to hydrate. There are some good moisturizing drug store brands that are safe during pregnancy. Most doctors can offer advice on high-quality, cost-effective brands that are widely available,” he says.

When unsure of a product’s safety, he suggests bringing in copies of its packaging to review during an appointment.

Providers can help make sure there aren’t any unsafe ingredients hiding under different names.

Managing New Skin Challenges Pregnancy-related changes in hormones, metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure can all contribute to a variety of new skin challenges, from acne to melasma. Ng shares his guidance on a few of the most common: n Acne – While many pregnant women experience breakouts, experts recommend avoiding several common acne treatments like hormone therapy, doxycycline, minocycline, adapalene, tazarotene, and tretinoin. “Benzac AC, at low concentrations and in limited use, is safe in pregnancy. However, if it’s painful acne, it could be infected,” he cautions. “Clindamycin is safe, and that’s something we would prescribe for painful cystic acne.” n Linea Nigra – Up to 80 percent of women develop a dark line that runs from the upper abdomen to the pubic bone, known as linea nigra, when pregnant. Folic acid, commonly taken to support healthy fetal development, may also help reduce this pigmentation. n Melasma – Pregnant women are extra susceptible to getting melasma. The good news is that it usually fades after pregnancy, and sunscreen can prevent it from getting darker in the meantime. n Sun Sensitivity – Another common concern is increased sensitivity to the sun. Mineral-based sunscreens, which aren’t absorbed into the bloodstream and are gentler on sensitive skin, are a smart choice. “Chemical-based sunscreens have the potential to cause problems in pregnancy, and for the developing fetus,” Ng explains. Use an SPF 30 mineral sunscreen for short outings and SPF 50 for extended time outdoors.

To learn more about skincare and other healthy habits during pregnancy, talk with your OB-GYN or dermatologist. For more information to help navigate the first few weeks of pregnancy, from lifestyle changes to important appointments and more, contact your physician.

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family fun

New Year, New Hobbies

By Erin Pittman

T

here’s something hopeful about a brand-new calendar. Fresh pages, fresh goals—and a chance to create new rhythms for your family. This year, instead of resolutions that fizzle by February, try something more fun: start a new family hobby you can enjoy together all year long.

From crafting to geocaching, game nights to giving back, Prince William is full of places and programs that make it easy (and affordable) to get started.

Get Crafty Together

Crafting is one of the easiest hobbies to adopt because you can scale it to any age or budget. Younger kids can start with simple projects—paper collages, painted rocks, homemade cards—while older kids and teens can explore drawing, sewing, or digital design.

Prince William Public Libraries offers regular arts and crafts programs for children and families, including STEAM projects, hands-on workshops, and creative clubs at branches across the county (pwcva.gov/ department/library). Check the events calendar at your favorite branch, and pick one program a month to attend together. Turn it into a ritual: library program, then cocoa or a treat afterward.

If your family is ready to go deeper into the arts, the ARTfactory in Manassas offers visual arts classes, theatre, and dance for kids and adults (virginiaartfactory.org).

Consider signing up for a family painting night or signing up for a class together.

16 | January 2026 prince william living

Try this: Start a Family Gallery Wall at home. Every month, each person hangs one new creation—no comparisons, just celebration.

Discover Geocaching Adventures

If your crew loves mysteries, gadgets, and the outdoors, geocaching might become your next obsession.

It’s essentially a global treasure hunt using GPS coordinates—and Prince William is dotted all over with caches, especially in parks and historic sites.

Prince William County Parks & Recreation oversees many of the local parks and trails where caches are placed.

Manassas National Battlefield also features virtual caches, where you complete challenges like answering questions or snapping photos at historic spots rather than finding a physical container. Read more at princewilliamliving.com/ geocaching-treasure-hunt.

To start, download a geocaching app, choose an easy cache nearby, and head out together. Don’t forget to load up on small trinkets you leave behind when you find a cache.

Try this: Declare one Saturday a month “Treasure Hunt Day,” and explore a new park each time.

cooperative titles, card games, and even role-playing campaigns that older kids and teens can help lead.

Prince William Public Libraries hosts gaming programs and events, including game-based activities for kids and families. These are great times to try out games before investing in them yourself.

Make Volunteering Your Shared Superpower Volunteering is a powerful family hobby because it blends quality time with a sense of purpose. Kids see firsthand how their time and effort can make a difference in their own community.

Volunteer Prince William connects residents with local organizations that need help, from food distribution to special events and more (volunteers. volunteerprincewilliam.org). Habitat for Humanity Prince William County also offers volunteer opportunities that support building and repairing affordable housing, with roles for a range of ages and abilities depending on the project (habitatpwc.org/volunteer).

Families can also find age-appropriate projects—like food drives, park cleanups, or sorting donations— through community roundups of volunteer opportunities and nonprofit feature articles on our website: princewilliamliving.com.

Try this: Choose a cause as a family—housing, the environment, animals, or hunger—and commit to one volunteering activity per month. Start an online journal with pictures and how each family member felt after the experience.

Level Up Family Game Night

Strategy games are a fantastic way to sharpen brains and strengthen bonds. Cooperative games encourage teamwork, while competitive games teach kids how to win (and lose) graciously.

Start by rotating who picks the game each week— everything from classic board games to newer

Try this: Create a Family Games Trophy (even a decorated plastic cup works!) and award it each week— not just for winning, but for best teamwork, funniest moment, or most creative strategy.

Build a Year of Shared Memories

The best part about turning hobbies into a family tradition is that they’re flexible. You can start small—one new craft project, one geocaching outing, one volunteer shift, one game night—and build from there.

To keep your new hobbies from fading by February, try: n Putting them on the calendar. Treat your new hobby time like any other important appointment. n Letting everyone have a voice. Rotate who chooses the craft, cache, volunteer event, or game. n Celebrating progress, not perfection. It’s fine if your painting is messy or you can’t find every cache. The goal is time together.

With rich resources like libraries, local parks and historic sites, volunteer networks, and arts organizations, families in Prince William don’t have to go far—or spend a lot—to start something new this year.

Enjoy monthly family fun ideas? Get them delivered straight to your mailbox by subscribing at princewilliamliving.com/all-access-membership.

Erin Pittman is the Editor in Chief of Prince William Living and a mom to three awesome kids. Some of her best memories involve family time spent playing, creating, volunteering, and treasure hunting together. She can be reached at epittman@princewilliamliving.com. prince william living January 2026 | 17

local flavor

Easy Winter Comfort Recipes for Busy Families

By Rebecca Barnes

J

anuary often brings a mix of early sunsets, full schedules, and evenings that seem to move faster than anyone expects.

The holidays fade, routines return quickly, and weeknights are once again filled with homework, commutes, and the usual rush of family life. In the middle of all that, dinner still needs to appear on the table. The good news is that winter cooking does not have to be complicated to be warm, filling, and affordable, especially when you shop local.

Prince William families have dependable places to find fresh ingredients even in the coldest months: n Historic Downtown Manassas Winter Market (Saturdays, Jan. 18 to March 22) n Dale City Farmers Market (open year-round; winter hours Sundays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.)

Both markets offer produce such as carrots, sweet potatoes, squash, onions, apples, greens, and locally made items like bread, eggs, and baked goods. With these staples, you can build simple winter meals that fit neatly into busy evenings while bringing everyone around the table.

Below are three reliable recipes that come together with minimal effort yet deliver the comfort that January seems to call for.

• 3 celery stalks, sliced • 3 large carrots, sliced • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1½ pounds bone-in chicken thighs • 8 cups chicken broth • 2 cups peeled and diced potatoes • 1 teaspoon dried thyme • 1 teaspoon dried parsley • Salt and black pepper to taste Directions 1. Warm the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.

Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften.

2. Stir in the garlic and cook for one minute.

Chicken & Vegetable Soup

3. Place the chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Pour in the broth.

Ingredients

4. Add the potatoes, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Serves 6

• 1 tablespoon olive oil • 1 medium onion, diced

18 | January 2026 prince william living

5. Cook for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the potatoes are tender.

6. Remove the chicken, discard the bones, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.

7. Season with salt and black pepper. Serve with a loaf of market bread.

This soup keeps for several days and freezes well. If you often have a hectic schedule on weeknights, consider doubling the recipe. Freeze it in flat freezer bags so it thaws quickly for a future evening when time is tight.

Maple Roasted Winter Vegetables Serves 4–6

Ingredients • 4 cups peeled and sliced carrots • 3 cups cubed butternut squash • 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 1½ tablespoons maple syrup • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Directions

4. Pour the mixture over everything on the pan. Toss gently to coat.

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment if you want easier cleanup.

2. Combine the carrots, squash, and onion in a large bowl.

3. Add olive oil and maple syrup. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss until coated.

4. Spread in a single layer on the baking sheet.

5. Roast for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until vegetables are tender and slightly browned.

This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to whatever you find at the markets. If you pick up Brussels sprouts, parsnips, or turnips in Manassas or Dale City, add them to the mix. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of winter vegetables. Many families find that when roasted this way, these vegetables become more appealing to selective eaters.

For a full meal, serve the roasted vegetables alongside grilled sausages, baked chicken, or even over a bowl of warm quinoa.

Lemon Rosemary Chicken Sheet-Pan Dinner Serves 4

Ingredients • 4 bone-in or boneless chicken thighs • 1 pound baby potatoes, halved • 1½ cups green beans, trimmed • 2 tablespoons olive oil • Zest of 1 lemon • Juice of 1 lemon • 2 teaspoons minced garlic • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh) • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon black pepper

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F. 2. Arrange the chicken, potatoes, and green beans on a large sheet pan.

3. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, salt, and black pepper.

5. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F and the potatoes can be pierced easily.

This recipe comes together quickly and results in both protein and vegetables cooking at the same time. Clean-up requires very little effort, which makes it a good option for evenings when everyone returns home at different times.

If you want variety, swap the green beans for broccoli or swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes. Sheet-pan meals are forgiving and allow experimentation with whatever winter produce you have on hand.

A Winter of Warm Meals and Local Ingredients

Visiting our farmers markets in January might feel unexpected, but many shoppers appreciate the calmer pace and direct access to growers and makers. The ingredients you pick up on a Saturday in Manassas or a Sunday in Dale City can turn a hectic weeknight into a manageable and satisfying meal. The act of preparing something simple and warm can become a grounding routine during winter.

If you enjoy cooking with local ingredients and supporting area farmers, stay connected! Prince William Living offers even more ways to bring local flavor into your home.

Enjoy this? Get more local life ideas every month. Subscribe at princewilliamliving.com/all-access-membership.

Rebecca Barnes is Publisher of Prince William Living magazine.

prince william living January 2026 | 19

Want to Be a Prince William Star?

By Steffany Cartellone

D

o your New Year’s resolutions include dreams of acting on a stage, surrounded by a supportive company of people?

Or do you picture yourself singing in an ensemble, with the warm lights from the orchestra pit softly glowing? Community theaters are a wonderful place to begin your acting/directing/ producing/managing pursuit. Here in Prince William, explore the ARTfactory, Castaways Theatre, or Prince William Little Theatre for your burgeoning theater career.

All three of these theatre companies in Prince William came about in the early 1980s, with a desire to offer creative spaces for artists and audiences and to give the community rich and vibrant theatre offerings. Tayla Conroy, CEO of ARTfactory said, “(We) produce a full season of plays and musicals that bring people together to celebrate the transformative power of storytelling and the performing arts.”

For more than 30 years, these theatres have showcased the best, from Godspell to Frozen and Noises Off! to Julius Caesar. Whether you desire the classics or more modern productions, all three companies offer a variety of plays and musicals each season.

n Castaways Theatre (facebook.com/castawaystheatre) n Prince William Little Theatre (facebook.com/ PrinceWilliamLittleTheatre) They can also be found on their webpages (castawaystheatre.org, pwlt.org, virginiaartfactory.org.) All three theatres have multiple shows per year, whether plays or musicals, at which brand new or seasoned actors can audition. You must sign up for an audition time, with multiple evening options during the week and usually one weekend time. Auditions are open to everyone and many enjoy being a part of a theater group so much they become regulars within the community. Bryan Mitchell, President of Castaways Theatre, said, “Prepare a 60-90 second monologue to showcase your acting ability, range, and one that fits the production but is not directly from the play. It’s always best to choose a piece that gives the casting director an idea of which character you might like to play.”

Auditioning

If the production is a musical, have one to two songs prepared that match the style of music in the show, and be ready to learn a short dance routine to showcase your skills. Beyond the audition, there may be call backs from directors to determine the final placements.

n ARTfactory (facebook.com/VirginiaARTfactory)

The ARTfactory has an open call in February for their upcoming season, which consists of Newsies, Beyond Therapy, No Exit, Factory of Fear Scare Actors, and Frozen.

Auditions for all upcoming shows are posted on their Facebook pages:

20 | January 2026 prince william living

Photo courtesy of ARTfactory

on a high note

The Castaways Theatre wrapped up their productions of Rent in August, and their new season includes Disney’s Frozen, scheduled for January/February 2026. Auditions for Saving Lives, by Harry Kantrovich, will begin Feb 26. It is an original piece based on firsthand accounts of medics, corpsmen, nurses, doctors, and dustoff pilots who served in Vietnam. Check the Castaways Theatre Facebook page for auditions announcements and updates on upcoming productions.

Prince William Little Theatre began auditions for Head Over Heels the Musical in November 2025 and will have auditions for their upcoming shows Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (July 2026) and Man of La Mancha (October 2026), along with others for the 2026 holiday season and beyond.

Rehearsals

So you’ve landed the part, what comes next? Rehearsals!

Rehearsals occur two to three nights per week in the beginning with more frequent rehearsals as the final showtimes get closer. Rehearsals can last anywhere from two to three months depending upon the complexity of the show. Musical rehearsals generally span more time due to the need to learn music and choreography, in addition to lines. Actors are given a few weeks to memorize their lines, or be “off book.”

Showtime!

Beyond Acting

Beyond the auditions and the rehearsals and the thrill of the applause, these theatres also give back to the community. Bob Thompson, President of Prince William Little Theatre, said, “I’m directing It’s a Wonderful Life Radio Play in December.

George Bailey (one of the main characters) was on that bridge thinking of killing himself until Clarence, his guardian angel, showed him what life would have been like without him (George). We have teamed up with the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention (DC Chapter) and are selling lapel angel pins to promote awareness and prevention of suicide, with all the proceeds being donated to AFSP, hoping we can make a difference.”

Community theaters require a large family of people to be successful. Artistic opportunities abound from actors to set designers to lighting and sound designers, and there is also the production support – producing, directing, stage managing, props, costumes, and ticket takers. Many of these roles do not require auditions (props, costumes, ticket takers, set construction) but do require your time and skill to be successful.

Contact any of the three theatres through their Facebook pages for questions or inquiries about production support roles.

With the new year here, one of your resolutions may be to pursue that theatre bug lingering in the back of your mind.

Whether acting or building or directing, here’s hoping you pursue that dream by contacting the ARTfactory, Castaways Theatre, or Prince William Little Theatre, and as they say in the business, “break a leg” doing so.

Rehearsals move from saying lines to the addition of costumes, sets, lights, tech, and music to finally––showtime! All of the hard work at rehearsals culminates in showtimes consisting of matinees and evening performances over one or two weekends.

Acting, singing, and dancing onstage under the lights with an audience is not a feeling one will soon forget. A few months of rehearsals and the nerves can build but once the show starts, that is when the fun truly begins. Worried about mistakes? They might happen, but when the audience provides standing ovations for your performance, you will be hooked.

Steffany Cartellone is a contributing writer for Prince William Living.

Oliver

Heathers

Enjoying staying in the know with organizations around Prince William? Subscribe and have monthly issues delivered straight to your home: princewilliamliving.com/all-access-membership.

Photos courtesy of AmandaElenaPhotography

prince william living January 2026 | 21

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home & hearth Bringing Hygge Into Your Home This Winter

By Rebecca Barnes, Publisher of Prince William Living

T

he January settles in with a quiet rhythm. The holidays fade, daylight arrives late, and our homes become the center of everyday living once again. That shift makes winter the perfect time to borrow a page from the Scandinavian idea of hygge, a way of creating warmth, comfort, and presence through small choices. Hygge isn’t a decorating trend. It’s an invitation to shape a home that feels calm, connected, and genuine.

Layer Textures for Softness and Warmth

Textures are one of the easiest ways to shift the feel of a room.

Soft blankets, nubby throws, knit pillows, and warm area rugs help counter the bare, chilly days outside.

If you’re looking to refresh your space without stretching your budget, the IKEA in Woodbridge offers an assortment of textiles that fit the season, sherpa-style throws, knit cushion covers, faux fur rugs, and cotton quilts in neutral shades.

Mixing a few different textures makes a room feel collected rather than staged.

Try: n A thick knitted throw on the sofa n A basket filled with rolled blankets near the fireplace n A soft rug by the bed so mornings start gently You don’t need to change everything at once. Choose one corner, add layers slowly, and notice how it shifts the mood of the room.

Introduce Warm Beverages as a Daily Comfort

A cup of something warm can anchor a moment of calm. Tea, cocoa, mulled cider, or coffee, they all create a small ritual that feels restorative in the middle of winter.

You can turn this into a family-friendly routine by setting up a modest drink station in your kitchen. A tray with mugs, a tin of tea, a small jar of cinnamon sticks, and a container for cocoa mix is all you need. If you visit the winter markets in Manassas or Dale City, look for local honey or baked goods to pair with your drinks.

within reach. A nook gives you a place to sit for ten minutes without distraction, a gift during a busy week.

Consider a shared reading basket for your family. Rotate in new books from the library each week. When children see adults reading, they naturally join in, and the whole room settles.

Create Family Rituals That Bring Everyone Together

Hygge grows strongest through routines that help families reconnect. These do not need to be elaborate or timeconsuming. They simply need to be intentional.

Try one of these winter rituals: n Sunday soup night using fresh vegetables from the winter markets n Board game hour once a week after dinner n Candlelight evenings where you dim lights and talk, read, or draw n Winter walks in your neighborhood or a nearby park, followed by warm drinks at home n Gratitude journaling around the table for five minutes

A warm beverage doesn’t solve a long day, but it can soften it.

Rituals create a steady foundation during the cold months.

Children respond to structure, adults appreciate a pause, and homes feel more grounded.

Build a Reading Nook for Quiet Moments

A Season Made for Comfort

If you need supplies, IKEA’s reading lamps and small tables offer simple solutions. Choose a warm-light bulb, place a pillow behind your back, and keep a few books or magazines

Rebecca Barnes is the Publisher of Prince William Living.

Winter is the season of early sunsets, which makes it an ideal time to create a reading corner. This doesn’t have to be elaborate. A comfortable chair, a side table, a lamp, and a blanket come together easily.

24 | January 2026 prince william living

When the weather turns cold, our homes become the backdrop for most of our days. Hygge gives us permission to slow down, soften the edges of winter, and create space for warmth and connection. By layering textures, enjoying simple drinks, building a cozy reading nook, and nurturing small family rituals, your home can feel like a refuge all season long.

prince william living January 2026 | 25

calendar First Day Hike

Thu. Jan. 1 | 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park Iron Brigade Unit Ave. and Tenth Alabama Way, Bristow Bring in the new year with a history and nature hike guided by park staff. This 90-minute, 3-mile hike will start the new year on the right foot! Pets and children are welcome to join. Trail surfaces are grass, gravel, mulch, and paved, and are suitable for jogging strollers. Dress appropriately for the weather.

Ice Skating at Harris Pavilion

Through Sun. Jan. 4 Harris Pavilion 9201 Church St., Manassas Weather permitting, the ice-skating rink at Harris Pavilion will be open Jan. 1 to 4.

For hours and tickets, visit manassasva.gov/ parks_culture_and_recreation/ice_skating. php

Chair Yoga

Fri. Jan. 2 | 10:30 to 11:15 a.m.

Potomac Library 2201 Opitz Blvd., Woodbridge A gentle yoga class designed to improve overall well-being. Please bring a blanket or towel to sit on in the chair, and a dish towel for exercises. Register here: pwcgov.libnet.info/events?r=range&st art=2026-01-01

Monthly Meeting Greater Nokesville VA Networking Group Thu. Jan. 8 | 9:30 a.m.

Vita Nova Creatives 13051 Fitzwater Drive, Nokesville Connect with fellow business owners, make new connections, learn from industry experts, and showcase your business.

Prince William Model Railroad Traveling Train Show

Fri. Jan. 9 | 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Sat. Jan. 10 | 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Montclair Library 5049 Waterway Drive, Dumfries Watch a variety of unique trains chug down the tracks, chat with model train enthusiasts about their hobby and learn how you can become a member of the PWMRC!

Sip & Paint

Fri. Jan. 9 | 6 to 8 p.m.

Grounds Central Station 9360 Main St., Manassas Bring your friends, sip some wine, and enjoy step-by-step instructions to paint your own masterpiece. The first glass of wine or draft beer is included. If you are under 21 a nonalcoholic cafe drink is included.

Board Game Afternoon

Sat. Jan. 10 | 1 to 4 p.m.

Haymarket Gainesville Library 14870 Lightner Road, Haymarket Come for an afternoon of board games!

The game library will be available, but feel free to bring games from home. For adults. And for all ages, “Floor is Lava” will be available from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Hop, leap, and jump your way through the indoor obstacle course! Have fun with your fellow adventurers as you make your way across the lava-covered floor.

to paint their finished, dried product before taking their masterpiece home.

Register: artfactory.coursestorm.com/ course/sunday-sculpting?page=3

County Resource Table

Mon. Jan. 12 | 2 to 6 p.m.

Dumfries Library 18115 Triangle Shopping Plaza, Dumfries Learn about the convenient and free services that the Circuit Court and Community Services offer. 2 to 4 p.m.: Circuit Court. 4 to 6 p.m.: Community Services.

14th Annual Prince William County Public Schools Exhibition

Opens Tues. Jan. 13 | 10 a.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Featuring expressive and original works of art, this showcase of student artwork from Prince William County Public Schools represents the creative talents of students from elementary to high school. The visual arts program in PWCS prepares students to be visually innovative and to develop an awareness and appreciation of visual art. Runs through Feb. 21, 2026.

New Year Gala

Karaoke Night at Sunshine Ridge

Sat. Jan. 10 | 6 to 9 p.m.

McCall Studio Gallery 9409 Battle St., Manassas Visit McCall Studio Gallery in Historic Downtown Manassas for their New Year 2026 Gala! With refreshments, music, and artwork.

Wed. Jan. 14 & 28 | 6 to 9 p.m.

The Winery at Sunshine Ridge 15850 Sunshine Ridge Lane, Gainesville Karaoke every other Wednesday in the tasting room, hosted by Rockstar DJ & Karaoke! Bring your friends and sing along while enjoying drinks and lake views. No tickets are required

Sunday Sculpting with Lydia Bratton

Open Mic at Preston’s Pub

Sun. Jan. 11 to Feb. 2 | 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

ARTfactory 9419 Battle St., Manassas Instructor and artist Lydia Bratton will guide this class through the start to finish of creating art through sculpture.

Sculpture requires patience, perseverance, and sometimes a mindset shift to achieve desired results. Sculptures will be left to dry for a week, and students will return

Wed. Jan. 14 & 28 | 7 to 10 p.m.

Preston’s Pub 9103 Andrew Drive, Manassas Park Bring your talent and enjoy a wide selection of drinks and food at this awardwinning local venue!

Jason Isbell Solo Tour

Thu. Jan. 15 | 7:30 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas

Have an event? Visit princewilliamliving.com/events to submit details for our online calendar.

26 | January 2026 prince william living

Six-time Grammy Award-winning singer/ songwriter Jason Isbell is one of the most respected and celebrated artists of his generation. Isbell sings of the everyday human condition with thoughtful, heartfelt, and sometimes brutal honesty.

Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Pied Piper Theatre Presents Grease

Fri. Jan. 16 and 23, 7:30 p.m.

Sat. Jan 17 and 24, 7:30 p.m.

Sun. Jan. 18 and 25, 2 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Set to a soundtrack of iconic rock and roll, the beloved musical Grease follows a romance between hot-rodding “greaser” Danny Zuko and new girl in town Sandy Dumbrowski as they navigate the complexities of high school and peer pressure in the 1950s. Tickets: virginiaartfactory.org/event/pied-pipertheatre-presents-grease-2/

Miniature Painting

of the library. Register: pwcgov.libnet. info/event/14609376

Prince William History Lecture Series: “Desegregation in Northern Virginia Libraries”

Thu. Jan. 22 | 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Old Manassas Courthouse 9248 Lee Ave., Manassas During the Jim Crow era, many public libraries were segregated and inaccessible to Black residents. They resisted integration even after the landmark case Brown v. Board of Education. Discover the truth about the barriers imposed on the Black community and learn about the citizens-turned-activists who used protests and lawsuits to achieve more equitable library services from historians Chris Barbuschak and Suzanne S. LaPierre, authors of "Desegregation in Northern Virginia Libraries." This lecture is a free program jointly sponsored by the Prince William County Office of Historic Preservation and Historic Prince William.

Wed. Jan. 21 | 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Potomac Library 2201 Opitz Blvd., Woodbridge Bring your miniature and paints to the library, sit down, and paint for a while!

The library will offer you space to put brush to miniature. If you're new to miniature painting and would like to try your hand at it for the first time, there’s a limited number of supplies including paints, brushes and miniatures courtesy

Pirates and Tinkerbell Come to Occoquan

We Create & Foster Enduring Image!

Your PWPL Digital Library

Sun. Jan. 25 | 11 a.m.

Madigan’s Waterfront 201 Mill St., Occoquan A swashbuckling good time with Madigan’s Pirates and Tinkerbell! You and your child will enjoy a delicious brunch, craft time, interactive games and role playing, dancing, and photo opportunities!

Tickets: 703-494-6373.

Aquila Theatre: The Hound of the Baskervilles Sun. Jan. 25 | 4 p.m.

Hylton Performing Arts Center 10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas Aquila Theatre returns with a Sherlock Holmes favorite, The Hound of the Baskervilles, adapted from the novel by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. You’ll be on the edge of your seat one moment and laughing aloud the next in this fast-paced fun-filled mystery. You may even get the chance to get in on the act and help solve the case! Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.

Diverse Abilities Resource Fair for All

Sat. Jan. 31 | 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Haymarket Gainesville Library 14870 Lightner Road, Haymarket This event is for individuals with disabilities and parents, just like you, who’ve sat through tough IEP meetings.

Who navigated confusing systems late at night and worried about their child’s future and wondered if they were doing enough. This event brings guidance, support, and community into one space— so you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

This expo will bring together nonprofits, service providers, and businesses that offer resources and support for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Audiobooks, e-books, music, movies, and more: all available on your devices, all free with your PWPL library card.

pwcva.gov/digitallibrary

Have an event? Visit princewilliamliving.com/events to submit details for our online calendar. prince william living January 2026 | 27

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