Good morning, Fredericksburg.

Wild Hare Cider Pub in downtown Fredericksburg solved a lease issue—reinstating its business after a brief lockout—and will open on Wednesday, while the Biz Beat Roundup highlighted new business openings in North Stafford and Embrey Mill as well as a proposed 16-home lakefront subdivision on Lake Anna.

Fredericksburg business leader Curry Roberts, who has led the Fredericksburg Regional Alliance since 2014 and helped spur the region’s data center boom, announced his retirement Wednesday—he will retire in April.

The Riverside Center for the Performing Arts launches a new concert series that begins with a Motown tribute featuring Deja Groove on August 10—tickets have already surpassed 200 and the series continues with a Jerry Lee Lewis show on September 14 and a Tommy Dorsey Orchestra performance on October 12 featuring a new dance floor. Riverside also plans to shorten its theatrical runs in 2026 to make room for more live concerts.

Fredericksburg city and school officials cut the ribbon yesterday at the new Walker-Grant Middle School in Idlewild during a ceremony attended by local leaders.

The $74.8 million school will open on Aug.18 for over 870 students—as the city grows, it aims to meet rising demand for middle school education.

Stafford County candidates discussed plans to control spending and balance a $1 billion budget ahead of fall elections for representatives from Garrisonville, Hartwood, Falmouth and Aquia — emphasizing transparency, curbing tax increases and attracting commercial investment to support key services.

Rockin' on the Riverfront

7-11:59 p.m. — Riverfront Park Fredericksburg — Free entry — Enjoy a performance by Good Time Alibi and local snacks under the stars.

Open House at 1309 Graham Dr

4-7 p.m. — 1309 Graham Dr, Fredericksburg, VA — $584,991 USD — Explore a luxurious home with custom design elements in the Village of Idlewild.

Puppy Yoga Fundraiser

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Possum-bilities — $28 per person — Enjoy a beginner-friendly yoga class with puppy cuddles and support a good cause.

Soul Line Dancing Night with Regina

7-10 p.m. — Jay's Downtown Sports Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy an energetic evening of community soul line dancing with Regina.

8th Annual Cooking Autism Car Show

9 AM – 3 PM — Stafford Regional Airport — Free entry — Celebrate stunning cars while supporting a great cause with food, music, and family-friendly activities.

MCA Grand National Show: Gathering of the Herd 2025

8 AM – 5 PM — Fredericksburg Fairgrounds — Free entry — Witness an exciting celebration of Ford Mustang cars with enthusiasts and families alike.

Concert by Canoe

6-10 p.m. — Motts Run Reservoir — Bring your own boat or rent one — Enjoy floating music at a scenic lake concert while dining on a picnic.

Virginia Cider Festival

11 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Fredericksburg Fairgrounds — Free venue parking — Sip and savor a wide variety of ciders from local and national producers while enjoying live music and food trucks.