Join the City of Manassas in celebrating 150 years as a community on April 1, 2023, from 2 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Exciting activities include poetry readings and live music. Food from local establishments will be available, and plenty of entertainment for all.

A time capsule meant to commemorate life in present-day Manassas will be celebrated and locked up, and not opened for 50 years.

Author & Poet Katherine Gotthardt is especially excited about this historical event. Her poem submitted (in the adult category) was selected by a panel of judges representing Neighbors of Historic Manassas – Best Version Media and City of Manassas, VA – Government. She will read the poem at the 150th anniversary celebration of this historic city, and they will include it in the time capsule commemorating the event.

“This is such an incredible honor and, in some ways, a fun irony. As an undergrad, when people asked me what I wanted to be when I graduated, I joked, “An immortal poet.” Having my poetry included in a time capsule? That’s about as immortal as it gets! I never could have imagined anything like this. I’m humbled, excited, grateful and flabbergasted, all at once.” said Katherine.

The student winner of this poetry contest is Nevaeh Williams. Poems were translated by Jorge de Villasante. The Spanish translation of the poems at the event will be read by Bianca Menendez, a member of the Poetry Society of Virginia.

When we asked Katherine what she loves about Manassas, she shared this, “Manassas was my first home when I moved to Virginia in 1999, so it holds a very special place in my heart. It’s also where I met writers and artists who enrich the area and create a unique, creative community. But my favorite thing about Manassas is its diversity and multiculturalism. When I am in Manassas, I feel like I’m part of the whole world, with all its beautiful differences and interconnections.”

Manassas Mayor Michelle Davis-Younger is especially excited about celebrating this historical moment. After leading the city in obtaining the Old Towne Inn property in February, the celebration will honor the history of Manassas while looking forward to her vision for the town as they approach its 150th anniversary, as she shared in an exclusive interview with PW Perspective.

Parking:
Parking for this event will be in Historic Downtown Manassas with buses picking up from Baldwin Elementary on the Prince William Street side. Please see the bus route here.
The bus route is simple, quick and will get you there when you wish. As the afternoon turns into evening, more buses will join the route, making it easy to leave the park after the fireworks. Handicapped parking is in the Triangle Lot.