Manassas, Va. – The city’s annual First Friday street festival will not take place in November, ending the 2026 series after a tragic shooting in September claimed the life of a local teenager. City officials said the decision allows them to focus on upcoming holiday‑season programming while they reevaluate safety protocols for future events.
Background and incident
First Friday is a long‑standing community gathering that shuts down several streets in Old Town, featuring vendors, food and drink – including outdoor alcohol consumption – and live music. An estimated 10,000 residents and visitors attended the September edition.
During that evening, a dispute between several men escalated into gunfire. A bullet struck 16‑year‑old Ashley Intihar, a student at Patriot High School, who died at the scene. Police later arrested three men, ages 19 to 23, in connection with the shooting.
City response
In a news release, the City of Manassas and Historic Manassas, Inc. (HMI) said, “After carefully considering community feedback, the City of Manassas and Historic Manassas, Inc. have decided to focus attention on the remainder of the year on fall and winter events and programming, as the final 2026 First Friday event has been cancelled.”
City leaders are reviewing safety procedures for First Friday and other large‑scale gatherings. They have opened an online survey for residents and business owners to share thoughts on how the event should be restructured or replaced. The survey can be accessed at form.jotform.com/262564895051060.
Public input
At a public meeting held last month, council members heard a range of opinions. While many participants agreed the event should be paused while safety measures are reconsidered, several expressed a desire to see First Friday continue in some form, emphasizing its importance to the local economy and community spirit.
Councilman Ralph Smith noted, “This continues to be an event that stays heavy on all of our hearts. It hit differently, and it requires some deep thinking and consideration of potential changes.”
Looking ahead
The city plans to host a series of holiday‑themed festivities over the next two months, shifting focus away from the street festival format. Officials say these events will still provide opportunities for local vendors and families to gather safely.
Manassas residents are encouraged to stay engaged through the survey and upcoming council meetings as the city works to balance community tradition with public safety.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
