The wait is over. Kalahari Resorts just opened reservations for their Spotsylvania County resort, and you can now lock in your dates for late 2026. New aerial photos show the massive construction progress on the 1.38 million-square-foot destination, and the scale is breathtaking. Virginia's largest indoor waterpark (where it's always 84° and sunny), 907 guest rooms, 12 restaurants, and a 150,000-square-foot convention center are all taking shape fast. Reservations are available starting December 18, 2026, with new dates added daily. Whether you're 3, 83, or anything in between, this complete destination will change the landscape of our region.

Forget the dozen roses. This Valentine's Day, create something together that you'll actually want to consume. Cider Lab Spotsy is hosting a Private Blending Night on February 15th where you'll taste base ciders, learn the art of blending, and create your own custom cider to take home. It's the kind of date night that beats sitting across from each other at a crowded restaurant.

From a multi-story treasure trove downtown to a mobile bookstore rolling through the region, the Fredericksburg area is packed with places to feed your reading habit. Riverby Books sprawls across multiple floors of a historic building, Novel pairs new releases with a plant nursery, Tales & Tails welcomes your dog while you sip locally roasted coffee, Jabberwocky has been inspiring young readers since 1985, and The Book Market FXBG brings books directly to you in a custom 16-foot trailer. Whether you're hunting for rare first editions, seeking the perfect children's book, or just want to browse somewhere that isn't Amazon, this guide has you covered. Happy reading!

Gluten-free just got a lot more exciting in downtown Fredericksburg. Fearless Gluten-Free Cafe opened a few months ago at 610 Caroline Street, offering everything from hot chocolate donuts and double chocolate muffins to cinnamon swirl bread and Brazilian lemonade in a 100% gluten-free environment. No cross-contamination, no worries. The cafe serves coffee by Recluse Roasting Project, specializes in made-from-scratch baked goods, and even offers special order cakes. Whether you have celiac disease or just prefer gluten-free, this is the safe space you've been waiting for.

Chef Danilo Orofino walked us through his favorite dishes at Orofino Restaurant, and the passion is real. Every dish has a story, every ingredient matters, and it all comes together to create that authentic Italian experience right here in downtown FXBG. Haven't tried Orofino yet? Restaurant Week (Jan. 16-25) is the perfect time to go.