Good morning, Fredericksburg!
Fall has officially taken over. The air’s crisp, the coffee’s hotter, and the weekends are packed with pumpkin patches, football, and comfort food. It’s the perfect time to slow down, explore local spots, and enjoy everything our community has going on right now.
In today’s edition:
Stafford’s three new schools are on the way
Rejuvalase Medspa launches The Tox Drop podcast
Robles Kitchen adds new flavor to the City of Fredericksburg
Apple picking guide: Best orchards within a short drive
Local events this week
Grateful to call FXBG home,
Dori Stewart
Publisher, FXBG Neighbors Connect

In the Know: FXBG Edition
Stafford’s New Schools Are Starting Small, and That’s a Smart Move
Big changes are on the horizon for Stafford County Public Schools, but the district is taking a thoughtful, steady approach. Three new schools are set to open in August 2026: Falls Run Elementary, Crow’s Nest Elementary, and Hartwood High, each designed to relieve overcrowding and make room for Stafford’s growing student population.
Keeping Kids Warm: How Our Community Comes Together for Students in Need
Every fall, when the air turns crisp and the leaves start to tumble, Stafford County shows the world what community spirit is all about. For over a decade, Stafford County Public Schools has joined forces with Operation Warm and our local fire departments to ensure every child has a warm coat to face the winter chill.
Thank you to our local sponsors who help make this newsletter possible 🙏
Sweet Spots: A Guide to Apple Picking Near Fredericksburg
Orchards and farms offer the perfect setting for creating lasting memories, and autumn is the ideal time to visit and pick fresh, delicious apples. This guide highlights top apple-picking destinations within a short drive from the Fredericksburg/Stafford area. Gather friends, family, or neighbors and explore these local gems for a delightful fall experience.
It's More Than the Game: Wildcats Beyond the Field
Mountain View High School's impressive football program is known for its grit on the field, but what the team does off the field is just as impressive. At the start of the season, the players traded their helmets for high-fives and story time during a visit to Margaret Brent Elementary School. This event wasn't about winning plays or touchdowns: it was about giving back to the Stafford community and inspiring the next generation.


Business Briefs
Rejuvalase Medspa Launches “The Tox Drop” Podcast in Stafford
Stafford just got a new reason to tune in. Rejuvalase Medspa, the local favorite known for helping clients look and feel their best, has officially launched its very own podcast, The Tox Drop, hosted by founder Maggie McIntyre.
If you’ve ever wondered what really goes into flawless skin, confidence-boosting treatments, or balancing wellness with everyday life, this is your new listen. Each episode of The Tox Drop blends expert insights, real talk, and behind-the-scenes stories from the medspa world, with plenty of personality.
Rejuvalase has long been the go-to for laser hair removal, Botox, hormone therapy, and skincare, and now they’re bringing that same energy to the mic.
You can catch The Tox Drop on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube, perfect for your drive, workout, or self-care Sunday. Tune in, laugh a little, and learn a lot about feeling good from the inside out.

Robles Kitchen Brings Flavor and Community to Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg’s food scene just got hotter. Robles Kitchen officially opened at 1201 Emancipation Highway, marking its debut with a ribbon-cutting hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.
Expect bold Mexican-American fusion flavors, warm hospitality, and a menu that ranges from sizzling fajitas and street tacos to juicy burgers, crispy wings, fresh salads, and hearty pastas. The space also includes a full bar meant for celebrating, relaxing, and making memories with friends and family.
This grand opening is more than a new restaurant — it’s a fresh chapter in Fredericksburg’s culinary growth. Swing by Robles Kitchen soon, bring your appetite, and see why locals are already talking about this newest flavor destination.

Heart of FXBG
Building the Village: GAD Youth Center Fills Critical Gap for Local Teens
In a world where youth programs often abandon children after age 12, Arline Gause saw a problem that demanded a solution. Her answer? GAD Youth Center, a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting the often-overlooked teenage years when young people need guidance most.


Events This Week
This section includes only the major events happening soon. Check event websites for the most current information.
Wednesday 10/15
Comedy at Galvin's! | Galvin's Delicatessen | 7pm
Network at Nite | Link Bank | 5:30pm
Thursday 10/16
Belvedere Plantation Harvest Festival | Belvedere Plantation | 10am
Retro Workshop: Pocket-sized Arcade | Reclaim Arcade | 6pm
Reclaim Riffs: Amplified Open Mic Night | Reclaim Arcade | 6pm
Friday 10/17
Nourish & Connect: An evening of mocktails, wellness, and friendship | River’s Edge Healing Arts | 6pm
Dueling Pianos: Keys to Cooperstown | Syner Manor and Stables | 6pm
Carly Harvey Live Performance | BUMRUSH Vinyl Shop | 7pm
Belvedere Plantation Harvest Festival | Belvedere Plantation | 10am
Fascination Street: Trick or Treat | Reclaim Arcade | 8pm
1964 the Tribute | The Groove Music Hall at Dominion Raceway | 7pm
The LACS @ Hard Times Cafe | Hard Times Cafe | 6pm
Saturday 10/18
Patrick the Magician @ Adventure Brewing Renn Faire | Adventure Brewing Company | 5pm
Lake Anna Wine & Brew Fest | Lake Anna Taphouse | 12pm
Boots on the Ground Comedy Show by Mr K Comedy | Themes LLC | 8pm
The Winery Comedy Tour at Morais Winery! | Morais Vineyards & Winery | 7pm
Dueling Pianos Fall Feast! | The Groove Music Hall at Dominion Raceway | 5pm
Renaissance Faire at Adventure Brewing…The Tetralogy Continues! | Adventure Brewing Company | 12pm
The Cold North Performing | Adventure Brewing Company | 2:30pm
In the Groove - An All Vinyl Dance Party with DJ Oso Fresh | Reclaim Arcade | 8pm
Color Theory Watercolor Workshop | Gari Melchers Home and Studio | 10am
Belvedere Plantation Harvest Festival | Belvedere Plantation | 10am
Spotsylvania Farmers Market | Gordon Road Park and Ride Lot | 8am
Sunday 10/19
Wilderness Halloween Festival & Car Show | Wilderness Presidential Resort | 11am
Belvedere Plantation Harvest Festival | Belvedere Plantation | 10am
Snakes Alive! | Lake Anna State Park | 2pm
First Oval Office Project at Stratford Hall | Stratford Hall Historic Preserve | 10am

FXBG Neighbors Featured Podcast
Collage Spa, founded by Brian Lam, brings big-city spa experiences to Fredericksburg, Culpeper, and Spotsylvania. After moving from New York, Brian set out to make self-care more accessible close to home. Brian’s mission is simple: to make quality wellness accessible and remind everyone that self-care has real value.
Thanks for reading FXBG Neighbors Connect! See you on Thursday!

