It's my town: Historic Manassas schedules events

Looking down the road…

It's only the end of January, but Historic Manassas Inc. already has set the dates for its annual crowd-pleasing events.

The first will be the Manassas Heritage Railway Festival on June 6 -- a family celebration of the rich railway history that Manassas has to offer. Now in its 15th year, the festival features the much anticipated Virginia Railway Express hourly excursions, full-size rail car displays, a variety of elaborate model railroads; railroad history and memorabilia; live entertainment and children's activities.

The other events are the Manassas Wine & Jazz Festival on June 21; Manassas Fall Jubilee on Oct. 3; and Merry Old Town, first weekend in December.

The goal of HMI, which recently moved into new offices at 9366 Main St., is to continue the growth and development of Manassas into a thriving and vibrant community...

Speaking of dates, the 51st annual Community Sewing Day will be Feb. 11 at 9:30 a.m. at the Nokesville Church of the Brethren, 13002 Fitzwater Drive, Nokesville. This is a special day when women from various churches and civic groups in the community gather to make laryngectomy bibs, lap robes and comforters for the community.

Those attending can bring a favorite food to share at the noon meal, which is guaranteed to be delicious, and fellowship is great. Donation to Transitional BARN will be accepted...

Robert K. Sutton, chief historian of the National Park Service, will speak on his decades of service in guarding the hallowed ground of the country's historical parkland on Feb. 11 at 10:30 a.m. to the Lifelong Learning Institute in the Colgan Theatre on the Manassas Campus of Northern Virginia Community College. He is the former superintendent of the Manassas National Battlefield Park...

The Center for the Arts at the Candy Factory has announced dates for auditions for the Pied Piper Theatre's spring production of Robin Hood. Actors, singers and dancers ages 8 to 18 are needed for the classic tale of Robin Hood and his merry band.

Directed by Vince Worthington and choreographed by Anne Ridgeway, this musical production will feature a cast of 40 with music, dances, and stage combat. Auditions are by appointment only and will be conducted on Feb. 6 to 7. The performances will be May 2 to 10. To sign up or for more information call 703-330-ARTS...

Toddler Tuesdays, the Manassas Museum's popular program for children ages 2 through 5, resume for the spring on Feb. 10 with a "Valentine's Day" theme.

The programs offer toddles and their caregivers an opportunity to enjoy music, storytelling and crafts and includes a special take-home surprise. The event is held at the museum from 10 to 11 a.m. and the cost is $10 per child per session.

The March 17 program theme is "Luck of the Irish." The April 14 program theme is "Trains."

… parents may register their children by calling 703-368-1873.