Tag Archives: things to do near me

Jurassic Quest at the Fredericksburg Expo and Conference Center!

Tickets are selling quickly, be sure to reserve your spots now! Coming THIS January 21st through 23rd, 2022 at the Fredericksburg Exp & Conference Center will be Jurassic Quest, the largest and most realistic traveling dinosaur show in North America. There will be rides, activities, and more dinosaurs than ever before. The do expect tickets to sellout, so buy in advance to guarantee your time slot. Timed entries are required and allow all guest to enjoy their Quest in a safe and accessible self-paced environment, especially during these times. The average length of stay per quest is 2 to 3 hours and re-entry is not permitted. Their dinosaur exhibit includes OVER 100 dinosaurs that are true-to-detail and size. Among the dinosaurs you will find, a 50 foot long Megalodon, 60 ft long, Spinosaurus, 80 ft long Apatosaurus and their Gigantic LIFESIZE T-Rex! The rides include walking dinosaur rides and stationary dinosaur rides. Plan to pack socks for the kids if they will be jumping in the inflatables! Face masks will be required; please visit their website here for any questions, concerns, and to purchase tickets and packaged deals.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Fun Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, Virginia

No matter what the season is, there are many things to do in Orange County, VA. However, there is something truly special and magical about the winter holidays. If you are looking for fun Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, VA, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll let you know what Orange County has to offer this holiday season, and we guarantee you’ll have a blast!

Are you moving to Orange County, VA?

Even though living in a big city comes with many advantages, moving to the countryside is becoming increasingly popular. If you are looking to settle in a more relaxed, friendlier, and healthier environment and escape the stress big city life brings, moving to Orange County, VA, might be the best decision you make in your entire life.

However, no matter where you’re relocating from, you will want to have a smooth and easy move to Orange County, VA. So, we consulted a team from Po’s Moving & Storage, who advised that the key to a successful and stress-free move is to start planning as soon as you know your move date. Further in this article, we’ll help you prepare by letting you know more about the lifestyle in Orange County, VA.

A body of water with trees around it

Description automatically generated
Located in neighboring Spotsylvania County, Lake Anna State Park is only 40 minutes drive from Orange County.

Things to know about Orange County

To help you prepare and know what to expect, here’s what you should know before packing your bags and heading to Virginia:

  • With pleasantly hot summers and relatively mild winters, you’ll be able to experience all four seasons.
  • The overall cost of living in Virginia is higher than the national average. However, Orange County is one of the most affordable parts of the state to live in.
  • If you enjoy spending time in nature, the scenery around Orange County will leave you speechless. So if you are looking for an excuse to buy a holiday home in Virginia, Lake Ana State Park might be a perfect location to choose.
  • There are historical sites all over Virginia. Orange County is famous for Montpelier, an estate that belonged to ‘the father of the constitution, James Madison.
  • Virginia is known for great universities and renowned educational institutions. The University of Virginia is less than an hour’s drive from Orange County.
  • Don’t be surprised by the extensive military presence all over Virginia. This state is home to 27 military bases!
  • The Old Dominion is the first wine-growing area in the country. In Orange County alone, there are many fantastic wineries to visit.

We hope our Orange County facts made you even more excited about your move! So start planning your move and hire experienced residential movers to have your whole household relocated to your new home. We’re confident you’ll fall in love with Orange County and never wish to leave.  

What Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, VA?

The holiday season is one thing that makes life in Orange County, VA that more special. Every year towns of Gordonsville and Orange turn to old-fashioned holiday villages and offer plenty of fun Christmas holiday activities. Further in this article, find out the best and most fun things to do in Orange County, VA, during the festive season.

Check out Holiday Open House at James Madison’s Montpelier

Every year during holidays, in the home of the Father of the Constitution and Architect of the Bill of Rights, a free community event is held. It’s a great way to take a break from the holiday rush to relax and enjoy the season by diving into history and tradition. On top of that, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to try.

If you have never been to James Madison’s Montpelier, we recommend taking either a guided tour called ‘Highlights of Montpelier’ or a private house tour. In the historical core of this location, you’ll be able to visit and experience significant outdoor sites. Also, you’ll be able to take a peek at several selected rooms in the Madisons’ home.

Take Orange County Tacky Lights Tour

Another fun holiday activity to try in Orange County is the Tacky Lights Tour. You’ll enjoy driving through picturesque streets and checking out lovely lit-up houses. However, have in mind that this is not a contest. It’s a tour organized just for fun.

A picture containing ground, outdoor, night

Description automatically generated
What can be more fun but driving through decorated streets and looking at a stunning collection of Christmas lights and ornaments?

Visit the Market at Grelen Holiday Headquarters 

The day after Thanksgiving, Santa starts coming to Orange County, VA. He makes sure to visit every Saturday through the entire holiday season. After you take your kids to tell their Christmas wishes to Santa, there is still plenty more to do at this fun place!

For instance, Cut-Your-Own Christmas Trees is one of the favorite events for Orange County locals. You can also participate in wreath and gift workshops and learn new skills. And make sure not to miss out on Enchanted Extravaganza.

Holiday Feasts at Barboursville Vineyard 

Why not treat yourself to a spectacular holiday feast of four courses while sipping on exquisite and rare wines of Orange County? Orange County’s Barboursville Vineyard has exactly that to offer during the entire holiday season. You can even join Christmas Lunch Celebration or the New Year’s Eve Dinner and Celebration.

Annual Gingerbread House Contest

Don’t be sad you’ve missed out on the Gingerbread walk this year because you’ll have as much fun at the Annual Gingerbread House Contest. From the first week of December, you’ll be able to see lovely gingerbread houses displayed for viewing and voting in the windows of different businesses along Main Street in Orange. You can decide whom to vote for while checking out diverse local businesses.

A gingerbread house on a table

Description automatically generated
Gingerbread House Contest is one of the most favorite holiday events in Orange County.

The bottom line

We hope you enjoyed reading about Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County, VA. More importantly, we hope we inspired you to dress warm, go out and choose an event you’re going to check out first.

Meta description:

There is nothing as magical as the holiday season, so we’ve prepared suggestions for fun Christmas holiday activities to try in Orange County.

Photos used:

https://unsplash.com/photos/uFfN-6_DFW4

https://unsplash.com/photos/Y1Ul14Qvdd0

https://unsplash.com/photos/faMVPE56PnU

https://pixabay.com/photos/snowflake-ornaments-christmas-tree-1823942/

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Candy Cane Lane Christmas Market in Bowling Green

Visit 116 Chase St, Bowling Green, VA 22427, Saturday, December 10th between 10am – 2pm for the final Candy Cane Lane Christmas Market event hosted by Dainty Chic Roadside Stand. There will be 27 vendors of makers, creators, and bakers, a gingerbread contest will be held, shopping, a toy drive, a food truck on-site, and even Santa will make an appearance! Check out this market for something unique and different that can’t be found at big box retail stores, while also supporting your local community members and residents! There will also be a Season of Giving Shoppe where children can come shop for their family and friends. Please contact: Daintychic1@gmail.com to set up an appointment! Visit their Facebook page here for more information!

The Bowling Green Christmas parade will be held at 5pm that day, for you to join after completing your final Christmas shopping list.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Concert in Lights, All Season Long at Spotsylvania Towne Center

Concert in Lights has begun at the Spotsylvania Town Center in Fredericksburg, Virginia. After you’re done holiday shopping at the mall, go to the Village to enjoy their special light and music show. Get into the holiday spirit, every night as shows are every night at 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, and 9pm. For the most up-to-date, visit here.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

2021 Gingerbread Walk in Orange, Virginia!

Orange’s Annual Gingerbread Walk will be held this Saturday, December 4th from 10am – 4pm. There will be plenty of family fun to be had here with music, holiday crafts, food, great shopping, SANTA, and of course, gingerbread, too! A Gingerbread house-making contest will be coordinated by Orange County Parks and Recreations and the Arts Center in Orange. Expect special family photo backdrops to take your own personal photographs to make into a lifetime memory. Walkthrough Children’s Toyland, featuring an array of holidays crafts and displays presented by Paint it Orange in the Train Station. You and your family are invited to tour the historic Orange County Courthouse and Santa and his Orange Holiday Elves will be there too! The best part is this event is, completely, FREE! So come out and spend a Saturday in the beautiful, historic Town of Orange. For more info, visit here.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

FitLikeSlick Locust Grove’s FIRST and ONLY 24-Hour Fitness Center!!

Grand opening was Saturday, November 20th with membership rates starting at $45/month. They will be offering personal training, nutrition and living coaching, consultations, and group classes. This gym is open 24/7 and offers strength, cardio, free weights, and boxing equipment. The address to the new gym is: 36080 Goodwin Dr, C, Locust Grove VA 22508. Visit: fitlikeslick247.com for more information!

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Lake of the Woods, VA Fireworks Scheduled for September 4th!

The moment we’ve all been waiting for, the long-awaited fireworks from the postponed Independence Day show have been officially rescheduled for Saturday, September 4th, 2021! First, there will be a show on the Veteran’s Dam by the Ski Team starting at 7pm! Fireworks are slated to begin around 8:45 PM from the Veteran’s Dam. Take this opportunity to grab your friends and meet up for dinner at the Clubhouse prior to the show! Captains, grab your boats and have your anchors ready, the show is back for our viewing pleasure for the Labor Day holiday weekend. Let your friends and family know, so you can plan to attend the show.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

All you need to know about the lifestyle in Orange County, VA

Living in a big city is fantastic. Such a lifestyle brings many benefits when it comes to job opportunities, social life, and entertainment. However, city life also brings high costs of living, limited housing options, and a lot of everyday stress caused by commute and other factors. Not to mention the financial burden, because it’s never enough no matter how much you earn. Being in the center of the happening has a high cost. And as we grow older, we realize that relocation to a healthier and more affordable location is a game-changer. Unlike fast city pace, the lifestyle in Orange County, VA, is a different story. Here, you can slow down, enjoy nature and the people around you without losing essential location amenities. If you’re considering turning your life for the better, here is all you need to know about life in this charming county.

County location amenities

When choosing your future home, it is essential to know what you are looking for in a place. For instance, the location is one of the most critical factors of relocation because it will often dictate the job opportunities and other amenities the town provides. Thus, living near industry hubs and city centers is relevant, especially for working people. That is why many professionals have chosen Orange County as their new home in the past few years. Surrounded by Washington D.C. to the north, Richmond to the south, and Charlottesville to the southeast, this county has some great opportunities in business and educational fields.

Yet, since it is a growing county, some work on providing more gainful employment for the youth could be useful. The primary industries lay in agriculture, manufacture, and commercial services. However, recently a tourist and investors influx has given a boost to the development of this charming community. Thus, we can expect many more entrepreneurs and startup industries to choose Orange County as their base.

Vineyard in Orange County, VA
Orange County is famous for its vineyards and wine tasting tours

Pace of life

Orange County community is surrounded by farms and rich agriculture, with plenty of wineries where residents can enjoy some of Virginia’s best vines. That, and being the birthplace of James Madison, the founder of the U.S. Constitution, attracts many tourists to these parts. The residents are proud of the rich history of the place, which is incorporated in every part of the town.

Taking a stroll in downtown Orange County, you can see the cutest local shops and venues. And you will be surprised by the culinary mastery of the local chiefs. You can be sure to have some of the best dining experiences visiting town restaurants. Still, unlike in big cities, you won’t have to wait for meal reservations or get annoyed by the crowd and noisy streets. The town is a haven of enjoyment and relaxation, perfect for a retiree and family life. But, according to Virginia’s moving experts at Po’s Moving & Storage, in the past two years, a lot of their clients have been young professionals working remotely. Affordable costs of living, and a healthy lifestyle in Orange County, lately make many city people re-consider their living conditions.

Leisure opportunities in the area

Even for lovers of outdoor recreation, the O.C. has a lot of fun opportunities. Golf lovers can enjoy some of the numerous courses, while Lake Anna, Lake Orange, and Angler’s Landing are known to be a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. For more active nature lovers, especially those in water sports, kayaking tours on the Rapidan waterways will provide an unforgettable experience. And if you’re into more extreme outdoor activities, you can skydive with the help of the local experts. However, wine tasting tours, farm visits, and historical and nature trails are available for those who fancy a slower pace.

Family on a kayaking tour, representing lifestyle in Orange County, VA
The lifestyle of Orange County can provide some of the best outdoor activities for people who are into water sports

What makes people move to Orange County, VA

Due to a slow life pace, the O.C. is a common moving destination for the retiree community. But also, it is popular with people who want to live a quality and peaceful life while growing their family. Unlike high-priced housing markets in Northern Virginia, this place provides more comfortable and bigger homes at affordable costs. Whether it comes to better housing options or the desire to switch to a more eco-friendly way of living, the number of new homeowners in Orange County is growing lately.

Nowadays, we connect to the World Wide Web and often disconnect from the people and the world around us. That could make it hard to meet new people after the move. The quality traits, where people are friendly and traditions matter, are getting harder to find every day. It is the close-knit communities where you can easily make new friends and have a fresh, healthy lifestyle that restore the true values.

Woman with a child in nature
Virginia is famous for its stunning nature and agricultural potential. Thus, many young families move when switching to an eco-friendly way of living

Local festivities

Even though a relatively small community, Orange County enjoys celebrating numerous year-round festivals and sporting events.  At Downtown Orange Street Festival, you get to challenge your senses with some of the best cuisines, music, art, and beverages. As a community awareness promotion, the festival draws over 5,000 visitors from all over Virginia, especially families with kids. However, that’s not all. People in Orange County love to celebrate and have a good time. Thus, they use it to throw many other festivities, such as Office Costume Contest, Liberty Ride, Fallapalooza, Town Scavenger Hunt, Sunflower Orange Festival, Restaurant Week, and other cultural, music, and social events. 

Montpelier horse race
The state-renowned event, the Montpelier horse, and Jack Russell terrier races are making people flock here every November

Conclusion

If you are tired of city hustle and financial burden and want to take a slower pace, the lifestyle in Orange County could be a perfect choice for you. Here, you don’t have to sacrifice visits to your favorite shops and city amenities. The town itself has some of the most charming shops and local businesses in Virginia. From numerous town festivals to exquisite outdoor recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone’s taste. Still, when the nostalgia hits, big cities such as Richmond, Washington DC, and Charlottesville are just a short ride away.

https://unsplash.com/photos/UTXcujhcQl8

https://unsplash.com/photos/aF1NPSnDQLw

https://unsplash.com/photos/6F98shIQysI

https://www.pexels.com/photo/mother-lifting-her-baby-1261909/

https://unsplash.com/photos/YwjY-8Ivag4

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Downtown Orange County Street Festival, Saturday, September 11, 2021

This year’s 46th Orange County’s Street Festival will be in honor and remembrance of September 11, 2011, with the theme of HONOR OUR HEROES hosted by the Orange County Chamber of Commerce.

This year’s annual beloved community event will take place from 9AM to 4PM on Saturday, September 11th, and typically features over 200 artisans, craft and commercial vendors, a variety of food and beverage options, live music, a kid’s zone, and a beer and wine garden for the adults. Check out a list of all the vendors already scheduled to be at the event here.

This family-friendly festival attracts an average of 5,000+ people from all over Central Virginia each year and is a great opportunity for community awareness and promotion. This event is completely free to attend, grab the kids and friends as this will be fun for all!

If you’re interested in participating as a vendor, please apply here.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.

Blooms and Butterflies at Liberty Mills Farm

July 23 through July 25th, Liberty Mills Farm is hosting a Blooms and Butterflies event! Friday, July 23rd & Saturday, July 24th from 10AM – 3PM. Sunday, July 25th from 11AM – 3PM.

The featured butterflies species showcased are Painted Ladies. They are ordered and delivered to the farm from a small butterfly farm in Massachusetts called Butterflies and Blueberries. Did you know, they are the most widely distributed butterfly in the world? Painted Lady adult butterflies can cover up to 100 miles per day and reach speeds of nearly 30 miles per hour! Butterflies will be available to purchase to release yourself for $10 per butterfly.

Additional activities will include you-pick flowers (the pre-sale price of $25 each), giant zinnias, cosmos, music, a hayride, a farm market, and so much more!

Don’t fear going hungry on Saturday and Sunday, the Firefly on the Fly food truck will be at the farm to support all hungry bellies.

Tickets for this event will be $8 per adult and $6 per child. No tickets are needed for children ages 4 and under. Tickets and additional information about this event can be found here.

Whether you’re looking for homes for sale in Lake of the Woods VA or Waterfront property in Virginia we are your Real Estate Advisors for Stafford, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Locust Grove, Central Virginia, and Greater Virginia. Thinking of selling? In any market condition, “what is my home worth?” is the #1 question asked by homeowners. If you wish to sell your home, it needs to be sold for top dollar and in a timely manner. Pricing your home accurately, Pat will partner with you to make the selling process so much easier. Get started today by calling us at (540) 388-2541 or contact Pat Licata.

To see available Lake of the Woods properties, please visit our site.