Hey neighbors!
The rubber ducks are coming back to the Rappahannock and I cannot think of a better sign that spring has arrived. Here is what else is inside today:
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is right up I-95 and peak bloom is coming fast
Big news on William Street, Chef Michelle is joining Curio Wine Bistro & Bar as Executive Chef
A free concert at the National Museum of the Marine Corps tomorrow
Easter baskets needed for kids in our community, and there is a delicious thank you in it for you
A craft beer train ride you are going to want to book immediately
Let's get into it!
Dori
Local Pulse: FXBG Edition
š Read the full article and start planning your next pour: https://www.tastingtable.com/2103782/best-bourbon-distilleries-virgina/
š Get all the details here: https://www.marineheritage.org/eventscalendar
š Start planning your perfect cherry blossom day trip here: https://washington.org/DC-guide-to/national-cherry-blossom-festival
The Rubber Ducks Are Coming Back to Fredericksburg
The rubber duck races are returning to the Rappahannock, and we could not be more excited. This beloved Fredericksburg tradition is bringing good vibes and a great cause, with proceeds split between Friends of the Rappahannock and the FUNd Parks Fund. You can even help choose the official name by casting your vote on the Fredericksburg Parks, Recreation & Events Facebook page. Stay tuned and get ready for a great day on the river!
A big thank you to our sponsors for keeping this newsletter free for the communityš Want your business in front of 24,000+ Fredericksburg-area neighbors? Become a sponsor. [email protected]
Women-led adventures that make a difference
Intrepid has launched three new Womenās Expeditions in Peru, Bhutan and Cambodia ā created exclusively for women travellers. Expect immersive adventures that break down barriers and connect you with local communities, from trekking the Peruvian Andes to a women-run tuk tuk tour in Cambodia and a traditional hot stone bath experience at a women-owned farmhouse in Bhutan.
Business Briefs
William Street Is About to Get a Whole Lot More Delicious
Curio Wine Bistro & Bar on William Street just announced that Chef Michelle of Michelle's Table is stepping in as Executive Chef, and the buzz around what's coming next is very real. Menus are being tasted, spaces are being shaped, and every detail is being built with real intention. This is not just an expansion. It is an experience in the making, centered around food, wine, craft, and conversation done right.
š Follow along at https://curiowines.com/
Craft Beer, Mountain Views, and a Train Ride You Will Not Forget
Six Bears and a Goat Brewing Company is taking the tasting room on the road, and by road we mean the rails. On Friday, March 13th, Ales & Rails rolls out of Louisa Station for an unforgettable craft beer journey aboard the Virginia Scenic Railway. You will sip your way through four hand-selected Virginia craft beers paired with specialty snack boards, all while soaking in stunning Shenandoah Valley views with a 6B&G brewery expert guiding every pour.
This is not your average Friday night out. It is railroad charm meets local craft culture, and it sounds like an absolute blast. Grab your tickets before this one sells out.
š Book your seat at https://www.virginiascenicrailway.com/rides/staunton-ales-rails/
The Must-Attend Event of the Year for Women in Business is Coming to Fredericksburg
On March 22nd, FXBG Neighbors is hosting Power Players: In Full Bloom, a curated celebration honoring women entrepreneurs across the Fredericksburg area in honor of Women's History Month, and we want you there. Taking place at Eden Try Winery, this is a room you are going to want to be in. Think tea served in antique tea cups, a DIY mimosa bar, a live violinist, a bloom bar where you build your own floral bouquet, a flower wall photo booth, and giveaways, and most importantly, 100+ of the most influential women business owners in Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania all in one place. Space is limited and this will sell out.
Fill out this form, and weāll send you more information. Sponsorships available.
Fredericksburg Is Filling Easter Baskets for Kids Who Need Them Most
Spreading Smiles at Renato's is back and going bigger than ever, with a goal to surpass last year's 550 Easter baskets delivered to children experiencing homelessness and hardship. Drop off a completed basket, donate candy or small toys, bring books or gift cards for teens, or make a monetary donation and let them handle the rest. Every item goes directly to a child who might not receive anything else this Easter, and anyone who brings in a completed basket gets a complimentary appetizer or dessert as a thank you.
š Donate or learn more at https://spreadingsmilesfxbg.org/
The March Edition of Spotsylvania Living is Here
The March edition of Spotsylvania Living Magazine is all about community and connection. The cover story features the Vaughn family's multigenerational approach to modern life, and the issue also highlights Tree Fredericksburg's urban reforestation work, a young violist's story of discipline and growth, spring pet health tips, and a local author sparking imagination in young readers, plus a calendar of March and April events.
Local Flavor
River's End Speakeasy Just Added Brunch and It Might Be Your New Favorite Weekend Tradition
Fredericksburg has a new reason to get out of bed on the weekend. River's End, the speakeasy-style cocktail bar located upstairs from Galvin's Delicatessen at 216 William Street, is now serving brunch with the same locally sourced, handcrafted energy that made it a neighborhood favorite. Think seasonal dishes, a family friendly atmosphere, and the kind of Sunday morning vibe that makes you forget you have anywhere else to be. They are kicking things off with a soft opening and a condensed menu, but if this is the preview, we cannot wait to see the full show.
Last seating is at 2:00 PM and reservations are encouraged.
Whatās Happening In & Around the āBurg
Here are some of the top events happening soon. Always check with the venue for the latest details. Got an event coming up? Add it to our calendar.
Friday, March 6
Comedy in āThe Back Roomā | 7:00PM
Location: FXBG Comedy Scene, 911 Charles St, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Ready to make your weekend start the right way ā with big laughs, good drinks, and zero small talk.
First Friday DJ Night | 9:30PM
Location: Durango Grill, 4256 Plank Rd, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Join us on the first Friday of every month for a live DJ spinning your favorite hits, $2 Jell-O shots and $5 appetizers.
Fredericksburg First Friday | 5:00PM
Location: Downtown Fredericksburg, VA
Description: FXBG First Friday is an event that happens on the first Friday of every month that celebrates the amazing art, community, and vibrancy of Downtown Fredericksburg. It is a collaboration between galleries and art events, retailers, restaurants, and nonprofits in the downtown district that works to showcase the art in all we do.
Saturday, March 7
Books & Barks Book Club | 11:00AM
Location: Tales & Tails Book Cafe, 1010 Charles Street, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Meet the pups, get some snuggles and consider adopting a new family member!
Location: 9951 Patriot Highway, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Guests will enjoy a curated flight of margaritas while creating a margarita-inspired gel candle poured into a classic margarita glass.
Tales and Tails Adoption Event | 11:00AM
Location: Old Dominion Humane Society, 3602 Lafayette Boulevard, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Stop by and say hi to our adoptable dogs and cuddly puppies!
The Gothic Market | 5:00PM (through March 8)
Location: Fredericksburg Convention Center, 2371 Carl D Silver Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Folklore-themed market that works to bring together various aspects of Halloween, horror, witches, vampires, classic monsters, tall tales, campfire stories, couture, the supernatural, strange things, & dark fairytale works.
Sunday, March 8
Junk Journal Workshop | 10:00AM
Location: Curated FXBG, 817 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: We will provide the journal, coffee and donuts, and the basic supplies. You will bring anything you want to add to your junk journal!
