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Bring on the pumpkins! And the pies and the flannel and all things fall. In this issue, we’re bringing you spots to pick the best pumpkins and enjoy fall fun with your family. Check out our feature for all the details and a little fun pumpkin history too! Read on through Family Fun to discover ideas for not-so-spooky fall fun for families.
Looking for something else fun to do? Enjoy these sweet fall days at local wineries, taking in the tastes and views. Our Destinations section provides you a detailed listing of local wineries and their delectable offerings.
In Local Flavor this month, we’re focused on Mediterranean cuisine. Learn about the delicious ingredients you’ll need to create Mediterranean meals of your own and where to get the freshest ingredients locally.
And speaking of food, one local organization goes above and beyond helping our community through their food and clothing pantry. St. Thomas United Methodist Church has an army of
volunteers giving time weekly to support those in need in the Prince William Area. Read about their incredible work in Giving Back.
And if you’re looking to add a touch of creativity or art appreciation to your life, Prince William Art Society has you covered. Our On a High Note article has all the details on the society and how to support local artists by taking in their latest art show.
Your Finances shares tips in case you are looking to take a career break. Health and Wellness brings to light the dangers of the sitting epidemic and how to get moving. And Home and Hearth has trendy kitchen and bath updates to reignite your love for these spaces in your home.
Happy pumpkin season to all, and thank you for reading.
Rebecca Barnes Publisher
By Janet Cass
f you’re starting to see pumpkins on porches, in store windows, and — well, everywhere — it must be October. All those pumpkins popping up would surely surprise Irish folklore character Stingy Jack. That’s because in his day, it was customary to carve scary faces onto hollowed-out turnips and potatoes to ward off evil, not onto pumpkins. After all, in Jack’s era turnips and potatoes were readily available in Ireland, at least until the potato famine of the mid-1800s. But when the Great Famine drove many Irish to the United States, the immigrants encountered pumpkins for the first time and some adopted them as their carved and hollowed vegetable of choice.
And if you put a light inside your carved vegetable? Thank Jack for that. He’s condemned to wander the earth forever as punishment for cheating the Devil, according to legend, and carries a lump of burning coal inside his hollow vegetable to illuminate his path. That’s how Stingy Jack became Jack of the Lantern: Jack O’ Lantern.
This year, save the turnips and potatoes for the Thanksgiving table and find your jack-o-lantern at one of the following sites. While the Prince William area isn’t as well-known for pumpkin-growing as southwestern Virginia, which routinely powers the state into the ranks of top pumpkin-producing states nationwide, there are plenty of places to find the perfect gourd and enjoy an afternoon of family friendly fun in the process; many pumpkin patches offer mazes and other entertainment. Call sites or visit their websites to learn when they’re open and for additional information.
City of Manassas Farmers Market historicmanassas.org/farmers-market
9024 Prince William Street, Manassas 703-361-6599
Dale City Farmers Market pwcva.gov/department/parks-recreation-tourism/farmers-market
14090 Gemini Way, Woodbridge 703-792-8667
Little Goat Farm at the Lake littlegoatfarmatthelake.com/ 8954 Burwell Road, Nokesville 703-929-7228
Meadows Farms Nurseries and Landscape meadowsfarms.com/hours-locations/manassas/?utm_ medium=yext&utm_source=gmb 8677 Plant Place, Manassas 703-361-4769.
Prince William Farmers Market visitpwc.com/listing/prince-william-county-farmers-market/2185/ 7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge 703-792-7060
Quantico Farmers Markets nfmd.org/va/quantico/1010311/ 3500 Russell Rd, Quantico
Sunshine Honey Farm
sunshinehoneyfarmva.com
10725 Lonesome Road, Nokesville 703-927-7421
Tackett’s Tuesday Market
tackettsmill.com/fresh-local-farmers-market/ 2241 Old Bridge Road, Lake Ridge 703-509-3786
Three Puddle Jumpers Farm
threepuddlejumpersfarm.business.site/
12609 Homestead Drive, Nokesville (703) 261-9548
Yankey Farms
yankeyfarms.com/pumpkin_patch.htm
11812 Bristow Road, Bristow 703-618-3782
Yankey Farms Produce Stand
http://yankeyfarms.com/summer_produce.htm
14841 Glenkirk Road, Nokesville 703-618-3782
After Halloween …
Once Halloween is over, don’t automatically toss your gourd in the trash: Recycle it! At Little Goat Farm at the Lake in Nokesville, “Our goats love pumpkins donated from the day after Halloween to December 10th,” reports owner Bobi Marsh. Text her before you drop off your jack-o-lantern, and after drop-off, hang around to cuddle bunnies, bottle-feed baby goats, and interact with the resident alpacas, donkeys and chickens.
And if, after all that cuddling and petting, you’re still jittery from sneaking too much Halloween candy, regain your composure in one of the farm’s hour-long Goat Yoga classes, accompanied by baby goats and a certified yoga instructor. In addition to in-person visits, 20-minute customized virtual tours are available. Text to schedule pumpkin drop-off; schedule virtual and in-person visits on the farm’s website.
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Over at Hope and Serenity Farm Sanctuary in Nokesville, rescued animals enthusiastically devour pumpkins, says founder Renee Small. The gourds are a treat for the farm’s finances as well as for the animals because they help defray the cost of animal food for the sanctuary, which is supported solely by donations. Leave your jack-o-lantern outside the gate to the site or have the fun of feeding it to one of the animals yourself on a tour of the 11-acre nonprofit site. Book your tour on the sanctuary’s website.
Pumpkins have been in the area now called Virginia for a long time. Before Europeans established Jamestown in 1607, Prince William County was occupied by two Indian tribes, the Manahoac, and the Doeg. In the western part of the area were Manahoac, whose nomadic hunting-based life makes it unlikely they grew pumpkins, which have a long growing season and thus require months of cultivation. To the east, Doeg lived along the Potomac; Captain John Smith's 17thcentury map and writings record that the primary Doeg village was on the north bank of the Occoquan River, which flows into the Potomac. Doeg culture encompassed a semi-settled lifestyle that included raising pumpkins, corn, sunflowers, squash, beans, and tobacco
Smith’s exploration and mapping of the Virginia coast were part of his business agreement with the Virginia Company, based in England, which financed his travel to North America and held the monopoly on marketable items found there, such as furs and fish. An English pamphlet encouraging potential colonists to move to what’s now Virginia claimed, in 1650, that settlers from the Old World would be spared the effort of cutting down New World forests in order to plant crops, “for there are an immense quantity of Indian fields cleared already to our hand by the Natives.” Those fields may well have contained pumpkins and other actively growing crops left behind by displaced Natives, thereby providing new colonists with examples of what to grow in the new land, including pumpkins.
You can also leave pumpkins at Nokesville’s Sunshine Honey Farm roadside stand, for Nina and Andrew Fleischauer’s chickens and other animals. “We accept pumpkin donations all the way through December,” says Nina. However, cut pumpkins like jacko-lanterns “should be donated within 48 hours [after cutting] so they’re not moldy.” No painted pumpkins, please, as they can’t be used for animal food or compost.
How much do the animals enjoy the orange treats? “The turkeys sing/gobble … pigs do a happy dance … their tails go crazy and they jockey for position. The cows cross the field to come collect [pumpkins] and sometimes kick out their back legs in joy. The chickens run around with the piece they collect, to hide their treasure from the other chickens. Seeds from the pumpkin pieces plant themselves and start growing the next year, feeding the bees [with] pollen from the pumpkin flowers. It’s all kinds of wonderful all over the farm,” says Andrew.
The farm’s roadside stand is open for regular weekend hours this year through Sunday, October 29, reopening on pop-up weekends in November and December. To tour the farm, check the website and Facebook page for occasionally posted tour sign-ups. Or, arrange a tour by contacting the farm via open direct messaging on its Facebook and Instagram pages.
Prince William continued to have a primarily farm-based economy until the middle of the 20th century and the completion of Shirley Highway’s first two lanes in the late 1940s. The highway made it easier to reach Route 1, and easier still after the final two lanes began being used in the early 1950s. These transportation changes fostered the area’s development of its current identity as a bedroom community of the Washington, D.C., metro area. Nonetheless, from the days of Native farming to today, agriculture’s deep roots in the county remain. See the fruit* of area farmers’ labor at produce stands, farms and farmers markets throughout the Prince William area.
Learn more at these sites:
n historicprincewilliam.org/county-history/stories/indiansand-the-collision-of-cultures.html
n nps.gov/prwi/learn/historyculture/early-farm-settlements. htm
n virginiaplaces.org/vacount/prwillco.htm
* A pumpkin is botanically defined as fruit because it develops from a flower.
Can’t reach a farm or a sanctuary for rescued farm animals? Consider feeding discarded pumpkins to wildlife, if local ordinances allow. If your property abuts a forest or other wild area and you have permission from ordinances and the landowner, leave pumpkins at the edge of your yard next to the wild area and watch the critters feast. Deer and squirrels love pumpkins but be forewarned: Wild animals are fun to watch but their table manners can be messy. Be prepared to clean up after your guests have had their fill.
Or, pack your discarded jack-o-lanterns with other yard waste for collection on your scheduled yard-waste-collection day. County residents also may drop them off at the Balls Ford Compost Facility at 13000 Balls Ford Road. This diverts pumpkins from a landfill and recycles them into compost that’s sold at the Balls Ford Road Composting Facility and Landfill's Yard Waste Facility. (pwcva.gov/department/solid-waste-management/compostmulch-or-topsoil.) “Our gardens and local environment both win from composting,” says Nicole Brown, Acting Communications Director for Prince William County.
She explains that keeping compostable waste out of a landfill may extend the life of the landfill by an estimated 10 to 15 years. Not only that, she adds, but “When organic materials [like pumpkins] are put into a landfill they release methane, a greenhouse gas that is up to 84 times worse than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period, according to the EPA. By composting them, we can avoid this greenhouse gas emission.
“Composting is nature’s way of breaking down food and yard waste to make healthy soil and plants. Compost provides soil with organic matter, structural support and aerobic microorganisms that produce immediate and long-term soil health. This helps plants get the nutrients, air and water they need to grow … Because compost can hold 20 times its weight in water, using it means that you don’t have to water as much or as frequently,” said Brown.
Pretty neat trick, to turn jack-o-lanterns into compost that can be used to grow more pumpkins. Bet even that trickster Stingy Jack would approve.
Janet Cass is a contributing writer for Prince William Living.
By Janet Cass
There are as many ways to enjoy wine as there are people who drink it. Wondering where you can stop in for a sommelier-curated glass to relax and unwind? Perhaps you prefer wineries nestled into 18th-century architecture and serene landscapes. Or maybe you’re seeking unique vintages, a tour of a soil-to-bottle winery, or places that offer both self-guided tastings and professionally guided ones. Whatever setting you prefer for experiencing wine, you’ll find it in the Prince William area. Cheers!
9249 Center Street | Manassas | 540-935-8320
moraisvineyards.com/aroma-wine-tasting/
Aroma Wine Tasting I in Manassas is operated by Morais Vineyards & Winery, inspired by the Morais family’s history as Portuguese vintners. Among Aroma I’s wines are those honoring the art of winemaking by being produced without machinery, which preserves the wines’ delicate Portuguese flavor. These wines are Battlefield (Vinho Verde), made from the Portuguese Albarino Varietal; Touriga Nacional; and all Aroma I dessert wines: Moscatel, Jeropiga, and Cherry Wine. Aroma Wine
Tasting I offers tastings, flights, bottles, glasses, and slushies at its tasting bar in Manassas, serving the same wines available at the winery, plus limited-release wines. Seats are first come first served, with private rooms available to rent for large groups and events. Cheeses, charcuterie, and crackers are available for purchase to pair with the wines. There is plenty of on-site
parking. Outside food is permitted. Aroma Wine Tasting I also has a tasting room in Haymarket.
Aroma Wine Tasting II
14871 Washington Street | Haymarket | 540-729-4823
https://www.facebook.com/aromawinetasting2/
Aroma Wine Tasting II offers tastings, flights, bottles, glasses, and slushies at its tasting bar in Haymarket. Operated by Morais Vineyards & Winery, it serves the same wines available at the winery plus limited-release wines. Seats are also first come first served here, with private rooms available to rent for large groups and events. Visit Aroma II’s Facebook page to learn about food
and wine-pairing events at which you can sample wines and learn about pairing. Other events, such as trivia nights, are also listed on this Facebook page. Aroma Wine Tasting II has a tasting room in Manassas.
Bottle Stop Wine Bar
311 Mill St. | Occoquan | 703-494-1622 www.bottlestopva.com
Bottle Stop Wine Bar is a multiyear winner of Wine Spectator magazine’s Best-of Award of Excellence. Bottle Stop’s wine program, curated by its sommelier-owner, offers more than 25 wines by the glass and more than 300 bottles complementing Bottle Stop’s bistro-style cuisine. This neighborhood restaurantwine shop features make-your-own flights from a rotating selection of wines, monthly wine club, and quarterly winepairing dinners. Enjoy wine and dinner at the bar, in the dining room, or on the patio, then take home a bottle of your favorite. Visit bottlestopwinebar.com to learn about upcoming events and to make reservations.
Effingham Manor Winery
14325 Trotters Ridge Place | Nokesville | 703-594-2300 www.effinghammanor.com
Effingham Manor Winery occupies a picturesque landscape that includes an 18th-century manor house. Explore its grounds, containing picnic tables, firepits, koi pond, and porches. Wine tasting, sampling, flights, and bottle service are available at the winery building; tasting’s are also available in the manor house’s original first-floor reception and dining rooms. The house’s second-floor rooms provide an inviting setting for enjoying a glass of wine amidst the ambiance of wide-plank wooden floors from the 1700s. On the last Friday of the month, May through October, the winery is open until 9 p.m., hosting live music and food trucks. Public events are held throughout the month; check their website for information. Effingham Manor hosts private and corporate events.
12593 Foremost Court | Nokesville | 703-330-3467
nokesvillewinery.com/
Nokesville Winery is a soil-to-bottle vineyard and winery. As a small, family-run enterprise, it doesn’t outsource any part of wine production. Its flagship grape is the Norton, America’s oldest wine grape, first cultivated in Richmond with native vines
in the 1820s. These grapes typically produce robust, fully flavored, deeply colored, wines. Norton wines produced here have a rich, fruity aroma with notes of plums and tart cherries.
Nokesville Winery won a Gold Award for its 2021 Norton and a Silver Award for its 2021 Pinot Grigio at the 2022 USA Wine-Rating Competition. Open by reservation only; visit the website to reserve tastings, private events, private seating in the barrel room or vineyard, and tours. Personalized tours include the owner or winemaker guiding guests through the processing area and vineyard. See website for events and special offers.
The Winery at La Grange
4970 Antioch Road | Haymarket | 703-753-9360 wineryatlagrange.com
The Winery at La Grange, Prince William’s oldest established winery, occupies an 18th-century manor house surrounded by an extensive vineyard. Guided wine tastings in the manor house include seating in historic parlor rooms and rustic cellar. You can learn more by joining the winery’s Wine Club. Special events open to the public include wine dinners with local chefs. The Winery at La Grange is family friendly, and leashed dogs are welcome in the outdoor spaces. Visit the website for information about bookings, reservations, and the 150-person event space.
15850 Sunshine Ridge Lane | Gainesville | 703-753-9500
www.thewineryatsunshineridgefarms.com
The Winery at Sunshine Ridge Farm is the only local winery with a view of Lake Manassas, seen from all its rooms including its rustic tasting room. Set on 20+ acres of land, this locally owned and operated winery offers indoor and outdoor event venues. Register for yoga by the lake in the morning, enjoy a glass of wine afterward, and learn about additional events by visiting the website. Join them for food trucks and live music every weekend in season, with a schedule of musicians on the website. Guests must be 16+.
There are many reasons adults choose to step off the career treadmill. For some, it’s to care for children or other loved ones, such as elderly parents. Others decide to take a step back in order to pursue higher education or training that will position them for new or expanded opportunities in the future. Some simply come to the conclusion that that they need a break in order to pursue other interests or recover from career burnout.
Whatever the case may be, if you plan to downshift your career — even temporarily — it’s wise to plan ahead. Here are some tips to keep in mind before you turn in your resignation letter.
Define your time away. Consider what your leave will ideally look like. Determine how long you plan to be on break, with start and end dates, keeping in mind that you may need to stay flexible in case it takes time to land a job once you’re ready to get back in the game. Define to what you hope to accomplish and what resources you may need. Your answers to these questions will help you estimate the monetary impact of your change in employment.
Create a budget. Review your sources of income and projected expenses to ensure you will be able to make ends meet without your usual paycheck. Make sure you have sufficient savings or other income, such as investments or a partner that you can rely upon to meet your monthly obligations. If you plan to be out of work for six months, budget for nine months to prepare for unforeseen changes to your timeline. Additionally, avoid funding a planned career break with emergency funds, which should be reserved for unexpected events such as a medical emergency.
Stay covered. You may be entitled to continued health insurance coverage if you take an approved leave from your employer. On the other hand, if you plan to voluntarily quit your job, your employer-sponsored coverage will end. Understand your cost sharing and the enrollment window for gap coverage. COBRA insurance offered through the federal government will be higher since your employer is no longer obligated to subsidize them. Consider other options such as coverage through a spouse or a more affordable short- and long-term medical coverage through the health insurance marketplace.
Keep saving. Ideally you will continue to maintain progress toward long-term goals such as college or retirement during your time away from work. The consistency of saving will be beneficial in the long run, even if you must lower your monthly contributions due to reduced income.
Weigh career repercussions. Consider how leave will affect your career trajectory. A work hiatus may reduce future earnings, impacting Social Security, retirement benefits and long-term financial goals. It’s quite possible your exact job will not be waiting for you when you return. If you qualify for leave under employment law, your employer can place you in a “similar job” after your leave expires. An employer has leeway under the law to fill your chair with someone else if they can show that keeping the job open would cause the company financial harm.
Create a re-entry plan. Presuming you intend to return to your current workplace, your employer will want to know your anticipated date of return. If you plan to seek new employment, stay in touch with your professional network, keep an eye on the job market and be proactive in applying for openings. If, in the back of your mind, you’re not certain you’ll return, give some thought to what you would do next, and how you will manage financially.
Seek guidance. A financial professional can help you study the financial impact of stepping away from your career. Armed with insight from a financial advisor, you can feel confident about this next chapter of your life.
Bennett C. Whitlock III, CRPC®, is a Private Wealth Advisor and CEO with Whitlock Wealth Management, 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 28 years. To contact him visit whitlockwealth.com, call 877-WHITLOCK or email whitlockwealthmanagement@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.
© 2023 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
If you drive past 8899 Sudley Road on a Saturday morning or a Wednesday evening, you may notice a line of cars winding through the parking lot of St. Thomas United Methodist Church. Observe for a few minutes and you’ll witness a well-oiled machine, the parts of which include church volunteers, clients, and supervisors. The supplies for this machine come from the church members, businesses in the Prince William area, and even the federal government, and the output is love and care for the community in its most basic form, food.
The St. Thomas Food Pantry has been serving the community for over 16 years. It’s open twice a week for about two hours, and two times per month, the Community Clothes Closet is also open in conjunction. Anywhere from 200-400 families come through each week, depending on the time of year. “We saw an increase in February as pandemic assistance began running out,” says Rebecca Runkles, supervisor of the Food Pantry. “In the summer months that has dropped off a bit, because many of our clients get more work, such as mowing or roofing, and so they don’t need to come.”
The church began curbside food distribution during COVID and has stuck with the model since then. They are continuing to work on innovative ways to help meet the needs of the community as well. When new clients arrive, they register and provide
information about the members of their household, any dietary needs, and income levels. The latter is because St. Thomas partners with the Capital Area Food Bank, which, as a government entity, requires recipients to earn below a certain level. But even if clients don’t meet that requirement, they can still receive other donations paid for by church members or donated from area grocery stores. Trained volunteers inside the church bag up food from the appropriate room or shelf, and bring it out to the clients’ cars.
On the third and fourth Saturdays, clients can also fill out a request for clothing when they arrive at the food pantry, and volunteers make selections from the Clothes Closet and bring those items out to the car as well.
All of this requires a lot of behind-the-scenes work. Volunteers drive to 10 area grocery stores, six days per week, to pick up donated items. This allows clients to receive bakery items, fresh produce, and meat. Stores donate items that are close to their sell-by date, and the church can sort through them and freeze meat, something that can’t be done at the store.
In addition to items from the Capital Area Food Bank, other grants that the Food Pantry receives require accounting and reporting, and Runkles works with Paula Harper and Teresa
Johnson, the Assistant Food Pantry Director, to make sure that all t’s are crossed and i’s are dotted. Spanish-speaking volunteers provide important assistance to Hispanic clients during distribution, and St. Thomas is always looking for additional assistance in this area to better serve the community.
Paula Harper also runs the Local Relief program for the church. St. Thomas received grants from the federal government for pandemic-related assistance. Though this money is running out, they’ve been able to help distribute funds so that area residents can catch up on payments for their utility, childcare, and rent expenses. St Thomas also uses donated funds to assist with these needs when they are able to.
The volunteers themselves illustrate the concept that giving to others is something that benefits the givers as well. High school students who are doing community service hours for a diploma requirement learn firsthand what it means to help others, and about how the world of service operates. What’s especially meaningful, Runkles relates, is that several of the volunteers were once clients. “I was amazed at how many of our volunteers started coming to us for food. And volunteers can continue to receive food if they need it.”
And these aren’t isolated incidents. “We have people who are coming through now asking about opportunities for volunteering and how they’re able to give back. So I think that the program means a lot to people both in that they’re able to receive food when they can’t really afford it any other way, but it also gives them an opportunity to assist with it and feel like they’re doing good for other people,” Runkles says. And so things become less divided between giver and recipient, a good thing by anyone’s standards.
Though the Food Pantry is the biggest ministry of the church, it is by no means the only ministry. Each year, the church hosts a Christmas dinner that is open to the entire community, not just clients or church members. “It’s a way to get people together on Christmas Day, especially for people who may not have family in the area or who aren’t going to have a nice Christmas Day meal otherwise,” says Runkles.
In another partnership, the church works with Aurora Flight Sciences, an aerospace company in Manassas, to gather and assemble backpacks with school supplies for Manassas City Schools. The church also has a special relationship with Loch Lomond Elementary School and has provided supplies and tutoring for students in the past. A group of dedicated women meet every week to assemble quilts that they’ve worked on throughout the week. These are then distributed to several outreach organizations, such as ACTS for victims of domestic violence. And the list goes on.
There’s no doubt that the church members are familiar with the Biblical principle of “give, a full measure, pressed down and running over, for with the same measure you use, it will be given to you.”
By now you’re probably heard about the dangers of prolonged sitting, but have you taken action to combat it in your own life? According to The Mayo Clinic, research has linked sitting for long periods of time to a growing list of health concerns. These include obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar. Spending too much time seated may also increase your risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and cancer.
If that’s not enough to make you stand up while reading this article, how about this? Those who sit for more than eight hours a day with no physical activity have a risk of dying similar to the risk imposed by obesity and smoking. The good news is that 60+ minutes of moderately intense exercise a day can help counter the effects of sitting, as can frequently disrupting your long stints in the seat.
Here are some ways to get up and moving without having to morph into a gym rat:
n Park far away. This is an old one but a good one. Add 100, 200 or more steps to your day by skipping the closest parking spaces and heading further out onto the asphalt.
n Develop motion triggers. Create a challenge for yourself that you will take all phone calls standing or walking. If you happen to still watch commercials, walk in place or do squats whenever they are on. Or set a timer to go off on the 50 of every hour, and use the last few minutes of every hour to get up out of your seat and stay in motion.
n Try a standing desk. If you’re not ready to commit to a brand new desk, purchase a portable desktop one to raise the height of your current workspace. Want to improve that workspace even further? Try an under-the-desk walking pad. The impact of movement of any kind makes a significant difference in your level of health risk. Get up, burn some calories, shake out the stiffness, and boost your longevity.
Erin Pittman is Editor in Chief of Prince William Living. What gets her out of her seat? Her two dogs, three children, and sometimes not ignoring those Apple Watch stand reminders.
opportunities are available for volunteers of all backgrounds and skill sets.
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October isn’t just about the tricks and the treats of Halloween. There are many reasons to celebrate and things to do with your family this month that don’t involve costumes or candy. Here are some ideas for adding more fun to your plans in October.
With cooler temperatures and the beautiful colors of changing leaves, getting outdoors is a great way to enjoy the new season. Find a local park or nearby hiking area to explore with your family. For added fun, turn your hike into a scavenger hunt, and look for different things such as acorns, squirrels, or certain colors of leaves. Pack a lunch for a picnic and make a day of it.
With less crowds and beautiful fall scenery, it’s a great time to visit the zoo! Some animals become more active in the cooler weather, which could give you more a chance to see them in action. If you are looking for Halloween fun this month, some zoos, including the National Zoo, host “Boo at the Zoo” events in the evenings where guests come dressed in costume, trickor-treat around the park, and enjoy other festivities.
Whether you’re on Team Apple or Team Pumpkin (or both!), baking fall-flavored pies can be the perfect activity for a chilly weekend afternoon. Get the kids involved with finding recipes to try, shopping for ingredients, and preparing the pies for baking. You can choose to buy pre-made pie crusts or make your own. Here is an easy pie crust that uses just five ingredients:
Ingredients (makes 1 9-inch crust):
1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
¼ teaspoon of salt (optional)
2 teaspoons of granulated sugar
½ cup of vegetable oil
2 tablespoons of milk
1. Add dry ingredients (flour, salt and sugar) to a bowl. Whisk ingredients together.
2. Make a well in the center of dry ingredients mixture and slowly add the vegetable oil and milk. Mix gently with a spoon until a ball of dough forms.
3. Place the dough ball in the center of a pie plate and press and flatten the dough with your hand until the entire dish is filled (bottom and sides).
4. Use your fingers to press the edges of the crust along the top edge of your plate.
5. Bake at 375 degrees for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown.
Put on the cozy sweaters and make plans to enjoy a day at the pumpkin patch. Some local pumpkin patches are small, with limited activities outside of choosing a pumpkin. But others are larger and include a variety of activities for visitors of all ages including large slides, hayrides, and corn mazes. Some even sell warm apple cider, fresh-baked goods, and other fall treats.
Bonus tip: While you’re visiting the pumpkin patch, do a family photo shoot! If you’re planning to wear your Sunday best, make sure you bring an extra set of clothes and shoes for each child as the pumpkin patch can get a little messy.
The next few months will be busier with Thanksgiving and holiday parties and events. Take advantage of a bit of a slower month, and host your friends and family for a fall harvest party. You can ask each guest to bring a dish to share. Or, you can create your own menu for your event. One fun idea is to have a chili or soup bar. Make a large pot of chili or soup of your choice and provide a variety of toppings for guests to customize their meal. Easy toppings could include cheese, sour cream, diced veggies, and croutons.
Provide simple fall-themed crafts or games to keep the children entertained. Have them decorate a small pumpkin or make a fall wreath, individually or as a family. Use mini pumpkins for games such as tic-tac-toe or relay races where you balance pumpkins on your head or on a spoon. If your party is in the evening, take the fun outdoors and make s’mores for dessert.
Enjoy doing something new this month and create amazing fall memories with your family.
Jennifer Halter (jenniferh@macaronikid.com)is a contributing writer and the founder of Macaroni Kid in Woodbridge.
OmniRide Express is a stress-free and convenient bus service from Eastern Prince William County, the Manassas area, Gainesville, Haymarket, and Stafford to destinations in Northern Virginia (including the Pentagon) and Washington, D.C.
OmniRide Metro Express* offers two routes that connect Woodbridge and Manassas with nearby Metro stations.
OmniRide Local* is a local bus service in Dale City, Woodbridge/ Lake Ridge, Dumfries, and the Manassas area.
OmniRide Access* is a program that offers paratransit service for people with disabilities. Vans operate within ¾ mile of the OmniRide Local bus routes that serve Manassas and Manassas Park.
OmniRide East-West Express* travels between Eastern Prince William County and the Manassas area, with access to medical facilities, offices, shopping and other destinations.
OmniRide Ridesharing Service saves you time and money by helping you locate the carpool or vanpool that fits your needs. It’s easy and FREE!
We all struggle with the constant barrage of food fads and healthy food choices. For many of us, time is our greatest challenge — finding the time to cook healthy meals when most of us live such busy lives. Others are overwhelmed by the volume of choices out there.
In recent years, Mediterranean cuisine has emerged as a wellbalanced alternative to the typical meals most Americans love to cook. And you can find Mediterranean ingredients to whip up a tasty, healthy meal from the region right here in Prince William.
Mediterranean cuisine traditionally comes from three specific regions with various customs, food, palates and climates, that have influenced these dishes.
The Eastern Mediterranean region consists of countries such as Greece, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, and Egypt. Greece, while often referred to as the cradle of civilization, is also considered by many as the gateway between the east and west.
The Southern European region is comprised of countries including Italy, France, and Spain, while having a distinctly Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, milder winters. Some of the most influential foods known around the world come from this region.
Moving on to the North African region with countries including Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya, you find a distinctly hot, desert climate with very little rain. This region would be the lesser known among foodies.
Olive groves that grow along the Mediterranean Sea, are found in abundance among these regions. They produce the most olive oil in the world. Olive oil is considered one of the healthiest oils to consume and has reached every corner of the globe.
There are some common elements of ingredients widely used in the various regions of the Mediterranean. Among them are olives and olive oil, wheat for bread, pasta and couscous, grapes for wine and dishes, as well as lemons, which are used in many recipes. Other elements consist of fresh vegetables such as eggplant, artichoke, tomatoes, cucumber, spinach, lettuce, and onions.
Meats traditionally include lamb, chicken, beef, pork, and seafood, a staple of Mediterranean cuisine. Basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary are among the herbs used to make tasty, naturally flavored dishes. Cumin, coriander, saffron, cinnamon, cloves, chilies, and paprika are the most common spices easily available for anyone interested in making both exotic and common dishes.
Mediterranean cuisine is often served with smaller portions, much like a smorgasbord, with several courses throughout the day. The idea is to bring the family together with outdoor dining as a common setting.
A classic Greek salad consists of healthy ingredients such as lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, kalamata olives, feta cheese, green peppers, artichoke, and red onions, all seasoned with oregano, salt, and pepper drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and red wine vinegar, (or lemon juice) served with pita bread.
Meat kabobs seasoned with flavorful spices such as nutmeg, green cardamom, allspice, and paprika, marinated in olive oil and lemon juice are typical of the eastern Mediterranean region.
In the southern European region, Italian pasta dishes like spaghetti, with fresh tomato sauce topped with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese are a staple. Neapolitan pizza made with a thin crust and topped with tomatoes, thick slices of mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil make this popular dish simple and easy to make.
Spanish paella is made with rice, saffron, seafood stock, garlic, onion, bell peppers, peas, with chicken, chorizo, calamari, shrimp, and mussels make this a classic dish within this region. There are many soup-based dishes in this region.
Lastly we arrive in the North African region with dishes such as Moroccan couscous, made with pumpkin, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, white and yellow turnips, cabbage, and onions. This region relies heavily on vegetables and legumes.
Turkish inspired chicken wings are marinated in Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon, sweet paprika, Turkish cumin, sumac, and garlic cloves, which complement the couscous.
Originating in Egypt, hummus is a staple among Mediterranean dishes. Its main ingredients consist of chickpeas, baking soda, fresh parsley leaves, tahini, lemon juice and zest, garlic cloves, extra virgin olive oil, ground cayenne, and ground cumin served with pita wedges. Hummus has gained popularity in the U.S. and is one of the healthiest snack choices.
Find recipes for these dishes at themediterraneandish.com and olivemagazine.com.
Although many people dream of traveling throughout the Mediterranean in search of local dishes in the spirit of chef, author, and travel documentarian Anthony Bourdain, it’s not practical when living on a budget. One can find many of these fresh ingredients while exploring local farmers markets throughout Prince William.
Visit local international food grocery stores to complete your shopping locally, such as Oh! Market-International Food, Gainesville Halal Market, Heba’s Health Foods, Cozmo One, Halal Bazar, and Mediterranean Market and Grill.
Anna Bedell is a freelance journalist and writer for Prince William Living Magazine. In her free time, she travels abroad and has a passion for exploring new places while meeting new people.
By Carolyn Moore
The Prince William Art Society began as Woodbridge Art Guild, but did not feel that they were encompassing the entire area. In order to bring in more artists from Greater Prince William, they became the Prince William Art Society. The society exists solely to encourage and promote local artists, offering classes and workshops throughout the year. Now a group of 90+, the group converges monthly for meetings and puts together shows at the Open Space Art Gallery in Woodbridge. The current show features a number of creative local artists. Read on for a sneak peak of their work.
Evelyn Chatters’ medium of choice is acrylics. She has been represented in several shows and has successfully sold work. Chatters’ piece is called Connections. It was inspired by, “The current state of America and the world,” said Chatters. She used an acrylic pour, chosen for its easy workability.
Maurine Guillot has been an artist for approximately 30 years. Being retired means that she can now spend more time on art. This piece was inspired by Guillot’s feelings that, “As humans we need to show more empathy toward each other and celebrate how diverse
we are.” This mixed-medium piece was created using decorated paper, cards, maps, old books, paint, and pastel.
Art has been a central part of Connell Calvert’s life. He works in mainly graphite, charcoal, pen, and watercolor, but is sometimes known to pick up oils, acrylics, and pastels. This piece was inspired by, “the connections and desires felt by any and everyone,” quoted Mr. Calvert. It was created in charcoal to “give a messy and uncontrolled appearance to mimic people’s uninhibited emotions.”
Kelly Haneklau began painting murals for clients at the age of 18, received her degree in fine art at 23, and began serious commissions soon thereafter. Her business, Minor Miracles, was formed in 2001. Haneklau is versatile and works in oil, acrylic, watercolor, alcohol ink, pencil, pen and ink, sculpture, photography, jewelry making, and mixed media.
She received the “Best Top Ten Illustrator” in the International Art Competition for the book, Art from Heart, for her acrylic painting titled Together. She has received multiple awards from Light, Space, Time International online competitions for the acrylic paintings, MLK, Jr, Inside, Maine’s Main, and Arles Light. Haneklau’s piece, Everyone’s Table, was inspired by pondering on how everyone is alike and yet different.
Bettie Sperty has been drawing ever since she can remember. She began painting in her young adult years, but not to the degree she does now. Her primary mediums are oils and acrylics, though she has dabbled in many mediums. She also creates hand-made pottery.
Sperty’s current show piece is called Love Life Tattoo and is created with acrylic on canvas. The inspiration for this piece is old-school tattoos. “I paint things that make my eyes happy and hope that my artwork will make someone else’s eyes happy,” said Sperty.
Helen Burroughs has been an artist for 16 years. She paints with acrylic and oil pastels and combines them with textiles. She is an award-winning artist and has been featured at the Fredericksburg Center for the Arts and the McLean Textile Gallery. Her textile art displayed is entitled, Cloth Wars.
The mediums in Cloth Wars are acrylic, silk, and cotton. Burroughs wished to include fabric with her acrylics and love how fabric gives a unique perspective to paintings. Cloth Wars was created in 2019.
Tony Muller has been involved with art for 20 years but has shown professionally since 2019. He works in digital media. His work has won recognition at shows. His current piece on display at Open Space Art Gallery is titled Hate Has No Place Here.
This piece allowed him “to showcase some of the things that were said to me after coming out, but also the positive messages I want to relay to the world,” said Muller. He stated that this show was special to him as it is the very first Pride show at the Open Space Arts Gallery.
Mandy Powell has been an artist for more than 30 years. She works mostly in acrylic, but also enjoys watercolor, pencil, ink, and chalk paint. Powell won awards as a young artist and currently also does commissioned murals.
Powell’s piece in the show is titled Courage, because she feels that it takes courage to “step outside the boundaries placed on love, no matter if it involves religion, ethnicity, gender, or social class.” This piece was inspired by the courage it takes to love who you want without fear of judgement.
Connie Heubner works with photography and digital art. She has been a photographer since high school. Photoshop was used for this piece, Becoming. This art was inspired by Huebner’s stepson who is transitioning and allowed her to tell his story. He consulted during the process as he wanted to be sure his emotion was captured completely.
Dinah Conteh has been an artist since she was a child. She studied art in college and enjoys working in watercolor, gouache, pencil, pens, and markers.
To learn more about the Prince William Art Society’s shows, classes, or membership, visit princewilliamartsociety.com.
Carolyn has been a successful artist and writer for many years. She enjoys reading, writing, painting, and computers.
*All photos in this article were courtesy of the individual artists.
• Same-day and next-day sick visits
• Sports, camp and school physicals
• Clinic sees patients from birth-18 years
Hours: M-Thurs 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Fri: 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Learn more at: uvahealth.com/peds-manassas
Call to schedule an appointment today: 833.362.0262
Conveniently located at: 9430 Forestwood Lane | Manassas, VA 20110
mpdpr.com/banquethall
Your wedding reception doesn’t need to be costly or complicated. When you rent the banquet hall at the Manassas Park Community Center, you get more than an affordable space that can seat 230 people and includes a gourmet caterer’s kitchen and tables and chairs. Plus, you get the experience of professional staff who have managed rentals for years.
Your reception starts at $248/hour
Manassas Park Community Center 99 Adams Street
And we invite you to find out why for yourself. From branding to social media, we care about one thing above all else: the success of your organization. Contact us today to see what we can do for you.
There’s a reason why Imagine is among the most awarded marketing agencies in Virginia.
Courtesy of Family Features
Designing a new home, remodeling your own or simply rethinking aesthetics and decor all require a little imagination and a lot of inspiration. Consider these on-trend design ideas from the kitchen and bathroom experts at Wellborn Cabinet, whose whole-home solutions double as functional and beautiful.
Let it Flow: Open concepts have become quite common as it allows the kitchen to feel like one large room where loved ones and guests can intermingle as opposed to an enclosed space. This flowing openness lends continuous visibility to the area ranging from the (seemingly) always active kitchen to gathering spaces in the dining and living rooms. An open floor plan also helps connect design aesthetics from each room to the next.
Opt for Concealed Storage: Pots, pans, knives, and all your favorite kitchen gadgets need to be hidden somewhere. Rather than taking up valuable pantry space, turn to a stylish storage solution from Wellborn Cabinet's line of pullout cabinets that give you the room you need. With options ranging from pullout peg boards to sleek tray dividers, these clever contraptions can help you stay organized while making functionality beautiful.
Incorporate Smart Tech: Trends aren't exclusively about aesthetics — practicality via technology is equally important for those looking to update their kitchens to the 21st century. Devices like smart refrigerators that allow you to take inventory from an app, smart lighting that brightens and dims to save on electricity, and voice assistants that help you keep track of recipes are all trendy paths toward a top-of-the-line kitchen.
Bring in Organic Touches: Organic modern is in, which means adding organic touches using natural materials like stone and wood in your cabinets, countertops, flooring, and more. Achieve a warm vibe with these organic elements paired with a neutral color palette (soft whites and earthy tones) and natural light.
Add Accents that Pop: Obvious accents like bold pops of color and unique patterns come to mind, but you can also make your bathroom stand out by experimenting with materials, accessories and shapes. Think eye-catching cabinet hardware, fun mirror shapes, and open-shelf decor that grabs attention without overdoing it.
Show Off Wood Vanities: As an important area you'll use to get ready for each day, vanities should be purposeful and practical but can also brandish your personal style. Types and sizes may vary but one look seeing an upward trend, according to
Wellborn Cabinet's design experts, is the use of natural tones and textures like woodgrain to complement the rise in popularity of warm colors in recent years.
Go for Decorative Lighting: The same tired light fixtures in bathrooms can feel drab and dreary. Evaluate the amount of natural light available (often at a premium in bathrooms) and decide if you can go more subdued or need to effectively and efficiently illuminate the area. Bell-shaped, wall-mounted sconces next to mirrors are in vogue, as are glass globes to complement ample natural light. For a true touch of modern flair, consider dramatic accent lighting like underlights on a floating vanity that do double duty as a convenient nightlight.
Make it Spa-Like: Lavish luxury is the goal with a spa-like bathroom in the comfort of home. Organic materials, natural light, traditional decor, and, maybe most importantly, an oversized soaking tub are at the core of this look. While it may sound counterintuitive, you can actually create your own oasis with some simple, budget-friendly aesthetics. The first step for many is to incorporate more storage using sleek cabinets, shelves and wall-mounted hooks to achieve a decluttered look. Next, simply replace your old showerhead and faucet with spa lookalikes and stock up on plush, fluffy towels for that luxurious appearance without a complete remodel.
Find more design inspiration by visiting Wellborn.com.
Online – On Demand
Are you an advertiser with Prince William Living or interested in becoming one? Our publisher Rebecca Barnes will help you discover how to “Make the Most of Prince William Living.” Meet the people behind greater Prince William’s premier lifestyle magazine. Visit princewilliamliving.com/ lunchwiththepublisher.
Farmers Markets
Historic Downtown Manassas: Thursdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Harris Pavilion, 9201 Center Street, Manassas
Prince William Farmers Market: Thursdays, 3 to 7 p.m., Pfitzner Stadium, 7 County Complex Court, Woodbridge
Historic Downtown Manassas: Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Prince William Street Commuter Lot, 9024
Prince William Street, Manassas
Market on Main: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Garrison Park, 17749 Main Street, Dumfries
Dale City Farmers Market: Sundays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City
Haymarket Sunday Farmers Market, Second and Fourth Sundays, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 15000 Washington Street, Haymarket
Tai Chi for Health
Tues. Oct. 3 & 17 | 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Central Library
8601 Mathis Avenue, Manassas
Tai Chi is an ancient discipline of meditative movements practiced as a system of exercises. This class is great for seniors, athletes, people with arthritis, or anyone who would like to practice Tai Chi. Weather permitting, this program will be in Central Library’s outdoor space, Central Green. In case of inclement weather, the program will be moved into the library Community Room. If you would like to participate in this program,
please complete and sign the Release of Liability forms provided by the instructor. First come, first served until capacity is reached.
Fri. Oct. 6 | 10:30 to 11 a.m. Chinn Park Library
13065 Chinn Park Drive, Woodbridge
Meet a 911 operator who will tell you what to do when you have an emergency (or even a non-emergency) situation. Find out the type of information you should know (your name, address, phone number) and why those things are important. Practice calling with an app. There will be a short story time and time for arts and crafts, followed by the chance to explore inside emergency vehicles. For ages 3 to 6.
First Friday
Fri. Oct. 6 | 6 to 9 p.m.
Historic Downtown Manassas
On the first Friday of the month, the streets of Historic Downtown Manassas are the site of a giant party. Restaurants offer special foods and drinks, and shops stay open longer than normal.
Disney-Pixar “Finding
Nemo JR.”
Fri. Oct. 6 | 7 to 9 p.m.
Sat. Oct. 7 | 2 to 4 p.m.; 7 to 9 p.m.
Metz Middle School
9950 Wellington Road, Manassas
ARTfactory’s Pied Piper Theatre presents this stage musical based on the 2003 Disney film Finding Nemo. Featuring memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming,” “Fish Are Friends Not Food,” and “Go With the Flow,” Finding Nemo JR. brings a vibrant underwater world to life on stage in a story full of family, friendship, and adventure.
Prince William Little Theatre
Presents “The Westing Game”
Fri. Oct. 6 & 13 | 8 p.m.
Sat. Oct. 7 | 8 p.m.
Sun. Oct. 8 & 15 | 2 p.m.
Sat. Oct. 14 | 2 and 8 p.m.
Hylton Performing Arts Center
10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas
The unsuspecting residents of Sunset Towers are summoned to the reading of a mysterious will, only to find themselves locked in a game where they must solve who killed eccentric millionaire Sam Westing. Through blizzards, bombings, and unlikely alliances, the game is on, and the only people holding all the clues are a Westing heir and the audience. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org.
40th Annual Fall Jubilee
Sat. Oct. 7 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Historic Downtown Manassas
This year's Jubilee includes an assortment of fun for kids and adults with over 100 craft and community booths, live music and entertainment, food, and more! The Fall Jubilee is free to the public, so bring family and friends for a full day of outdoor fun!
Veterans Lunch Bunch
Tues. Oct. 10 | 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Potomac Place
4133 Montgomery Ave., Woodbridge
Veterans are invited to this monthly lunch in their honor. Two fellow veterans may accompany you for this complimentary meal.
2023 PetOberfest @ Stonebridge
Sat. Oct. 14 | 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Stonebridge at Potomac Town Center 15201 Potomac Town Place, Woodbridge
Free family and pet friendly activities including a pet parade/costume contest, a lure course, an agility course, pet-friendly exhibitors, children’s entertainment, store discounts, prizes, and much more. Pet photo booth donations will benefit the Prince William SPCA. All pets in attendance must be leashed.
Manassas Chorale: The Places We’ll Go!
Sat. Oct. 14 | 4 p.m.
Hylton Performing Arts Center
10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas
Join the Manassas Chorale, its smaller ensemble, and premier choirs from local high schools on a journey of songs that celebrate locations around the globe, both big and small, in this family-friendly concert. Tickets: hyltoncenter.org
Murder at Rippon Lodge
Sat. Oct. 14 | 4 to 6 p.m.
Rippon Lodge Historic Site
15520 Blackburn Road, Woodbridge
Join Rippon Lodge Historic Site for the return of a live production of Murder at Rippon Lodge. Advance registration required at pwcparks. org/historicprograms. For mature audiences only. The subject matter is not appropriate for young children.
Haunted Hallows Ghost Tour
Fri. Oct. 13 | 7 to 9 p.m. Sat. Oct. 14 | 7 to 9 p.m.
ARTfactory
9419 Battle Street, Manassas
Take a walk through Downtown Historic Manassas accompanied by a ghost host. Visit historic sites and come face to face with the spirits that reside in them. Enjoy delicious food and drink from one of the many on-site food trucks. Tickets: virginiaartfactory.org.
18-Hole Golf Tournament
Wed. Oct. 18 | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Bull Run Golf Club
15000 Bull Run Estates Drive, Haymarket
Don't miss the Chamber Foundation's kickoff event! All registrations include a Special Event Polo. Register: princewilliamchamberofcommerce. growthzoneapp.com/eventcalendar.
Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Sat. Oct. 21 | 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Harris Pavilion
9201 Center Street, Manassas
The annual Walk to End Alzheimer's throughout Historic Downtown Manassas. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. and the ceremony starts at 9:30 a.m. at Harris Pavilion, followed by the walk. All funds raised further the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.
Octoberfest of Food & Fun
Sat. Oct. 21 | 3 to 9 p.m.
Prince William County Fairgrounds
10624 Dumfries Road, Manassas
Enjoy the fall season with many different types of food. Have your face painted. Get a quick scare and join the fun! With candy, a costume contest, and many local vendors.
Manassas Symphony
Orchestra: Folk Echoes
Sat. Oct. 21 | 7:30 p.m.
Hylton Performing Arts Center
10960 George Mason Circle, Manassas
In celebration of its fourth decade, the MSO presents a concert showcasing classical masterpieces inspired by rich folk traditions. David Pedraza performs the Viola Concerto in A minor by Béla Bartók.
Salute to the Armed Forces
Wed. Oct. 25 | 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Heritage Hunt Golf & Country Club
6901 Arthur Hills Drive, Gainesville
This annual event is designed to honor the local military presence, as well as recognize the veteran community and business community that supports them. The luncheon is an inspirational event to thank veterans and active-duty military. The program will include the Presentation of Colors, National Anthem, TAPS, POW/MIA ceremony and more. Presented by the Prince William Chamber of Commerce. Register: princewilliamchamberofcommerce. growthzoneapp.com/eventcalendar.
Spirits & Spirits
Fri. Oct. 27 & Sat. Oct. 28
Historic Occoquan
This weekend event is anchored by the crowd-favorite Haunted Maze & Spirits Garden. If you prefer your All Hallows’ Eve to be on the tamer side, enjoy a family-friendly costume parade and contest, plus a murder mystery night!
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