Virginia Democrats released their long-awaited redistricting proposal yesterday (Thursday) in a bid to expand the party’s presence in Congress while countering similar gerrymandering attempts by Republicans.
Party leaders rolled out a map that’s projected to give Democrats an advantage in 10 of Virginia’s 11 Congressional districts, and as expected, much of that comes at the expense of Northern Virginia — the bluest part of the state.
A McLean man faces 30 years in prison after being convicted on charges related to his operation of a Ponzi scheme centered on the buying and selling of precious metals.
Warith Deen Muhammad, 39, was convicted in federal court on Wednesday (Feb. 4), less than four months after being arrested for his role in the scheme that netted him $1.5 million between November 2021 and June 2023.
For nearly three decades, one event has united Fort Belvoir’s sprawling community of soldiers, families, retirees and civilian employees like no other: Oktoberfest. This September, the tradition continues — and grows — with the 28th Annual Fort Belvoir Oktoberfest, running September 24–27 at a brand-new location, Pullen Field, 9625 Middleton Road, Fort Belvoir, Virginia.
Hosted by Fort Belvoir Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR), the four-day festival is the installation’s largest annual event and one of the most beloved in the Northern Virginia military community. Best of all? General admission is free — no tickets required to walk through the gates and enjoy four days of German tradition.
Whether you’re a polka devotee, a carnival enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates a good bratwurst, the schedule has you covered. The fest kicks off Thursday, September 24 (6–10 p.m.) with live performances from the Fritz Polka Band and the Sepp Walzer Fest Band. Friday (4–11 p.m.) brings an expanded lineup, including a captivating performance by the Alt-Washingtonia Schuhplattler Verein, a traditional German folk dance group, alongside more live music and DJ sets.
Saturday (noon–11 p.m.) is the festival’s longest day, featuring a full rotation of performers including Johnny Koenig and Leroy Burks, plus special contests (more on those below). The celebration wraps up on Sunday, September 27 — Military Appreciation Day (noon–8 p.m.) — with a fitting send-off honoring the men and women who make this community what it is. All Active Duty Military and their dependents can purchase a carnival wristband for $27. Must present valid Active Duty Military ID Card for discounted wristband.
Longtime attendees will notice a few exciting additions in 2026. The festival is making its debut at Pullen Field, adjacent to the Bowling Center — a new venue that opens up even more options for a full day out, including bowling and American cuisine for anyone looking for a break from the German revelry.
The crowd-favorite Stein Holding Contest (ages 18+) and Costume Contest (all ages, with Dirndl & Lederhosen and Kinder categories) return on both Saturday and Sunday inside the fest tent. And in a thoughtful new addition, the event will feature a dedicated sensory area for families who need a quieter moment away from the excitement — a small but meaningful touch that reflects MWR’s commitment to serving the whole community.
Authentic German cuisine, specialty food trucks, beer on tap, and Oktoberfest merchandise — including Bavarian mugs, glass boots and traditional hats — round out the experience. Carnival rides are available for a separate ticket fee, purchased on-site.
The event is open to active duty personnel, retirees, civilian federal employees and their guests. Parking is free and in lots surrounding the event. Members of the general public may attend as sponsored guests. Because the festival is held on the installation, all visitors must plan for gate access in advance. Non-DoD ID holders aged 18 and older need a sponsored visitor pass and should submit their applications at least 72 hours before arriving. The Visitor Control Center at Tulley Gate can assist with questions. For access details, visit https://home.army.mil/belvoir/about/installation-access
For the latest updates on food vendors, entertainment and access details, visit belvoir.armymwr.com.
Fort Belvoir Oktoberfest is presented by USAA, with support from Wegmans, Potomac Music, First Command, Brain Treatment Center and Embassy Suites by Hilton, Springfield. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Army or Fort Belvoir.
King Arthur Baking Company is cooking up a longer-than-anticipated stay at Fairfax Corner.
After previously announcing that it would close at the end of January 2026, the baking supply business now says it will continue operating its pop-up shop at 11948 Grand Commons Avenue through June.
Person Hospitalized After Falling Down Slope — “At 2:14pm #FCFRD responded to 700 blk of Bulls Neck Rd in McLean for a person who fell down a slope. Crews found 1 civilian 200ft down a ravine on steep hill. Tech Rescue crews operated on rope systems to remove the civilian who was transported w/ non-life-threatening injuries.” [Fairfax County Fire and Rescue/X]
Trump Official Target of Alleged Murder Attempt — “A Maryland man is facing attempted murder charges after reportedly showing up to the Arlington home of Office of Management and Budget (OMB) director Russ Vought while armed. Colin Demarco, 26, was taken into custody Jan. 22, five months after the Aug. 10 incident,” though his arrest wasn’t announced publicly by police until yesterday (Thursday) evening. [ARLnow]
Longtime Local Reporter Among WaPo Layoffs — “On Wednesday, The Post announced plans to move on from that legacy as part of widespread cuts to the newsroom. The layoffs, affecting more than 300 of the roughly 800 journalists at the paper, are landing hard on the local news desk, where [Martin] Weil has worked since 1965. He was among those laid off, one of the last ties to the paper’s Watergate era.” [NY Times]
House Democrats Pass Gun Control Bills — “Virginia House Democrats on Thursday muscled through a sweeping package of gun control legislation, passing more than half a dozen bills aimed at restricting access to certain firearms, tightening storage requirements and expanding civil liability for the gun industry, as Republicans … spoke forcefully in opposition but were ultimately unable to stop the measures.” [Virginia Mercury]
Arrest for Tire Theft Spree — A Maryland man has been charged with several counts of larceny for allegedly stealing tires from “numerous” vehicles in the Fair Oaks district. Police began investigating the thefts after a reported incident on Oct. 24 at the Extended Stay on Route 50, but the man wasn’t arrested until last Sunday (Feb. 1) when his vehicle triggered a license plate alert in the Town of Herndon. [FCPD]
Police to Escort Monks’ Walk for Peace — “Our Police Department is planning to assist with the Monks’ Walk for Peace as they travel through our county.” After receiving a hearty welcome in Richmond, the Buddhist monks are expected to arrive for lunch at the Hoa Nghiem Pagoda in Fort Belvoir this Sunday (Feb. 8), Hunter Mill District Supervisor Walter Alcorn says. [Fairfax County Government/Bluesky]
Reston Association Rec Passes Available — “Reston Association is excited to announce that Recreation Passes for the 2026 season are now available. Recreation passes provide access to RA pools, tennis and pickleball courts.” RA members can receive a pass free of charge as part of their annual assessment, and for the first time this year, they can choose to have their pass automatically renewed when they pay their assessment. [Reston Association]
Burke Lake Park Scouts for Seasonal Hires — “Drop-in interviews at the Burke Lake Park Information Center will be held Feb. 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27 from noon to 5 p.m. Appointments are not necessary, so come by to explore job opportunities, complete an application and interview on the spot — all in one visit!” [Fairfax County Park Authority]
New Legal Notice — Hotel seeks limited beer and wine ABC on/off-premises license. [Public Notices]
New Legal Notice — Hotel seeks limited ABC license for beer and wine, on/off-premises. [Public Notices]
It’s Friday — Snow is likely after 2pm, with increasing clouds and a high near 34. A calm wind will shift to the south at 5mph. Precipitation chance is 40%. On Friday night, snow may occur before 1am, followed by gradual clearing and a low around 13. Winds will be light, becoming northwest at 13-18 mph and possibly gusting up to 31 mph. Precipitation chance remains at 40%. [NWS]
Fall is in its full glory every first Saturday in October with our Manassas Fall Jubilee and 2026 marks the 43rd one! This community-spirited festival spans all of Center Street and side streets, and includes an assortment of fun for kids and adults with over 100 craft and community booths, live music and entertainment, food, and more. Live music ranges from pop to rock to heavy metal, and dance performances include ballet, clogging, and belly dancing. And, the kids will enjoy a meet & greet with Cinderella, pumpkin painting, games, and more!
Good Thursday evening, Fairfax County. Let’s take a look back at today’s stories and a look forward to tomorrow’s event calendar.
The following articles were published earlier today — Feb 5, 2026.
Here is what’s going on Friday throughout the county, from our event calendar.
Scattered snow showers are expected mainly after 2pm, with increasing clouds and a high near 33. Winds will be calm, eventually turning south at around 5 mph, and a 40% chance of precipitation. On Friday night, snow showers may occur before 1am, followed by a low around 13 and a transition to partly cloudy skies. Winds will vary lightly before becoming northwest at 15 to 20 mph, potentially gusting up to 30 mph. Precipitation chance remains at 40%. See more from Weather.gov.
The MonumentCam screenshot above is used with permission of the Trust for the National Mall and courtesy of EarthCam.
Thanks for reading! Feel free to discuss the day’s happenings in the comments.
Vienna Town Council members have concerns about uncertain costs for the proposed aquatics and fitness facility and other pressing capital projects as a key vote looms later this month.
The town council is scheduled to consider awarding a contract on Feb. 23 to a firm that will oversee the planning and design of the aquatics facility, Vienna Parks and Recreation Director Leslie Herman said in a presentation on Monday (Feb. 2).
Fairfax County supervisors gave their blessing on Tuesday (Feb. 3) to a new Flagship Carwash express location near the intersection of Leesburg Pike and Dranesville Road north of Herndon.
“I’m very happy to see this coming through,” Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman said after the 9-0 vote.
Two dogs sustained grave injuries today (Thursday) in a West Springfield house fire.
The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department responded to a middle-unit townhome in the 5800 block of Rexford Drive shortly after 10 a.m.
Two bills that would have dramatically changed local governments’ ability to enforce traffic laws have changed course despite bipartisan support in Richmond.
S.B. 297 and S.B. 306, authored by state Sen. Mark J. Peake (R-8), would have repealed the authority of localities to install speed-monitoring and red light cameras, respectively. But as of Monday (Feb. 2), the possibility of a ban has been stripped from both bills.
