Good morning, Fredericksburg.

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation announced that state parks will host First Day Hikes on Jan.

1 with free parking and guided hikes at sites like Widewater and Lake Anna. Reservations are now open for themed walks including midnight hikes at Pocahontas.

Tree Fredericksburg volunteers pruned trees at James Monroe High School on Monday, enhancing campus safety + promoting long-term tree health.

Yesterday, the Massad branch of the Rappahannock Area YMCA began a half-million-dollar renovation project and introduced a new CEO in a Biz Beat Clips video; the effort is set to improve facilities for community use.

The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce announced (Dec.

22) that Ginni Matern, owner and president of Matern Staffing, will serve as 2026 Chair of the Board. Her appointment is part of the chamber’s new leadership update.

Stafford High School FBLA students raised nearly $450 to sponsor a litter of rescue puppies through Old Dominion Humane Society (located at 3602 Lafayette Boulevard).

They used the funds to cover the $300 sponsorship fee and extra support for the rescue mission, and they gave the puppies Anime-inspired names.

Soul Line Dancing with Regina

7-10 p.m. — Jay's Downtown Sports Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of soul line dancing and community fun in Fredericksburg.

New Year's Eve Celebration with Steve Jarrell

7:30-11:59 p.m. — Courtyard by Marriott Fredericksburg Historic District — Ticket required — Celebrate the New Year in style with gourmet bites, a champagne toast, and great music from Steve Jarrell.