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Hey neighbor! 👋
One of my favorite things about putting together this newsletter is discovering the people, businesses, and stories that make our community special. This week, we're highlighting a local chef who's competing for a national title, a farmers market favorite that's opening a downtown storefront, and a new family-owned restaurant bringing authentic Afghan cuisine to Stafford.
I hope you'll take a few minutes to support these local businesses, explore an upcoming event, and maybe even discover something new right here in our own backyard.
Thanks for being part of this community.
See you around town,
Dori
Local Pulse: FXBG Edition
Fredericksburg's Own José Acosta Seeks Favorite Chef Crown
Chef José Acosta has spent years building a reputation in Fredericksburg's culinary scene, working alongside some of the area's most respected chefs at Fahrenheit 132 and Cheeky's. Now, he's taking his passion for food to the national stage as a contestant in the Favorite Chef 2026 competition.
José's culinary journey began in Costa Rica and has taken him from managing an 1,800-acre farm-to-table estate to learning from renowned chefs and restaurant groups across the globe. Today, he brings those influences together through his unique style that blends Italian, Pan-Asian, Southern, and Latin flavors into unforgettable dining experiences.
Let's help put Fredericksburg in the national spotlight. José is competing for a $25,000 grand prize and the opportunity to cook with celebrity chef Carla Hall, and you can support him with one free vote every 24 hours. Cast your vote and share the link with friends and family: https://favchef.com/2026/jose-acosta
The Bagels Are Coming: Water & Barley Opening Downtown Soon
After earning a loyal following at the Spotsylvania Farmers Market, Water & Barley is preparing to open its first storefront in downtown Fredericksburg. Known for its handcrafted bagels and devoted fan base, the local business will soon welcome customers to its new home at 529 Caroline Street, bringing another unique dining option to the heart of downtown.
Bagel fans won't have to wait much longer. Watch for opening day announcements, stop by to support this local business, and see for yourself why so many residents have been lining up for Water & Barley's fresh-made bagels.
A big thank you to our sponsors for keeping this newsletter free for the community🙏 Want your business in front of 33,000+ Fredericksburg-area neighbors? Become a sponsor. [email protected]
Community Digest
Explore the Art of Aging Expo on June 10
The Art of Aging Expo returns to the Fredericksburg Convention Center on June 10, bringing together local resources, expert speakers, and service providers focused on helping older adults and their families live well, stay informed, and plan for the future.
Admission is free. Learn more and register at https://www.fredericksburgconventioncenter.com/events/art-of-aging-expo/
Shakespeare Returns to Kenmore with an Outdoor Performance of Macbeth
Pack a blanket, bring a picnic, and enjoy an evening of live theater under the stars. The 23rd annual Shakespeare on the Lawn returns to Historic Kenmore June 6-14 with a fresh production of Macbeth presented by the Fredericksburg Theatre Ensemble. Performances take place on the lawn of one of Fredericksburg's most historic landmarks.
Gather your friends and family for a unique summer tradition. Learn more and purchase tickets at: https://www.simpletix.com/e/shakespeare-on-the-lawn-at-kenmore-macbeth-tickets-269906
New Afghan Restaurant Brings Authentic Flavors to Stafford
A new family-owned restaurant is serving up authentic Afghan cuisine in Stafford. Zamarod Kabob, which celebrated its grand opening on May 21, offers freshly prepared kabobs, homemade naan, and traditional family recipes passed down through generations. Owners Laiza Gargasht and Wais Omarzada have created a warm, welcoming space where guests can experience the rich flavors and hospitality of Afghan culture.
Looking for somewhere new to try? Stop by Zamarod Kabob at 52 Foreston Woods Drive, Suite 107, in Stafford and support this local family-owned business. View the menu and learn more at https://zamarodkabob.com/
What’s Happening In & Around the ‘Burg
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.
Saturday, Jun 6
Arts in the Middle Fine Arts Festival | 10:00AM (through June 7)
Location: Arts in the Middle, 5123 Old Virginia Street Urbanna, VA
Description: Families can also enjoy a variety of musical performances throughout the weekend from jazz to pop; and blues to rock.
Battle of the Bacon | 7:00AM
Location: The Battlefield Country Store, 6150 Plank Road, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: We'll have Kunzler & our brand new Battlefield Bacon.
Beer and Ice Cream Flight Pairing | 3:00PM
Location: Laudenbach Brewing, 45 Centreport Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Enjoy a fantastic flight of Laudenbach Craft beer paired perfectly with Ice Creams from Abner B's!
Beginner's Compound Bow Archery | 11:00AM (through June 7)
Location: Widewater State Par, 101 Widewater State Park Road, Stafford, VA
Description: Will show you the basics of archery including finding your draw length, proper safety and shooting techniques, and more!
Burn Band | 6:00PM
Location: 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company, 1140 International Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: A family friendly rock and roll cover band performing multi-genre hits from the 70's-2000's.
Location: Tater's Corner, 89 Chatham Heights Road, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Our flower bar will be bursting with colorful blooms, ready for you to create your own beautiful bouquet!
J During Jr Duo Live Music | 5:00PM
Location: Lake Anna Winery, 5621 Courthouse Rd, Spotsylvania, VA
Description: Live music, great wine and a beautiful view.
Location: Virginia Credit Union Stadium, 42 Jackie Robinson Way, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Young business owners gain hands-on, real-world experience in a safe and encouraging environment.
Nature Journaling Workshop | 10:00AM
Location: James Monroe Museum, 908 Charles St, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Learn to record your observations through drawing, writing, and diagraming.
Paper Hearts | 6:00PM
Location: Laudenbach Brewing, 45 Centreport Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Let's welcome back John and Sandy for an evening of great music, vibes and fun!
Stand Up Comedy Night | 7:30PM
Location: Barley Naked Brewing Company, 15 Tech Parkway, Stafford, VA
Description: A dynamic comedy group that brings the laughter and good times wherever they go.
Shakespeare on the Lawn | 5:30PM (through June 7)
Location: Historic Kenmore, 1201 Washington Avenue, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: An event returns to Historic Kenmore with a reimagined performance of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
Location: Flower Fox Designs, 10941 Houser Dr, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Grab your favorite drink and come spend the afternoon creating a gorgeous summer container garden with us!
Tales and Tails Adoption Event | 10:00AM
Location: Tales & Tails, 1010 Charles St, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Grab your bookmark and get ready to add the happiest ending to a deserving dog’s tale!
Virginia Resolved | 10:00AM
Location: Great House Road, Stratford Hall, Westmoreland County, VA
Description: A revolutionary activity including living history interpreters, historic speeches, fireworks, plenty of food, music, family fun and more!
Virginia Rum Runners | 1:00PM
Location: 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company, 1140 International Pkwy, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: The Virginia Rum Runners have a catalog featuring Chris Stapleton, Doobies, ZBB, Waylon and more!
Sunday, June 7
Location: A & B Creative Events Center, 5012 Southpoint Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA
Desscription: Come see our incredible students' talents on display as they showcase their original designs.
Location: Adventure Brewing Company, 4 Hazel Park Ln, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Get ready to transform the tasting room and Production Space into an exhilarating playground and race course for tiny drones.
Audubon Drive | 2:00PM
Location: Strangeways Brewing FXBG, 350 Lansdowne Road, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Live at the brewery, FREE show!
Author Signing Event | 11:00AM
Location: Tales & Tails Book Cafe, 1010 Charles Street, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Meet author Melanie D.G. Kaplan and a few of the Beagles.
Creative Writing Workshop | 1:00PM
Location: Tales & Tails Book Cafe, 1010 Charles Street, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Whether you’re working on a story, book, poem, or just looking to get started, this workshop is for you.
Jim O'Ferrell | 12:00PM
Location: Stockyards Restaurant & Bar, 407 William St, Fredericksburg, VA
Description: Listen to Jim perform some of his most popular original songs
Long Family Markets Stafford | 8:00AM
Location: Long Family Markets Stafford - 610 Slug Lot, Staffordboro Blvd, Stafford, VA
Spotsylvania Farmers Market | 8:00AM
Location: 6975 Courthouse Road, Spotsylvania, VA
