In this week’s update:

🚄 New Acela trains are here — but there's a catch. Amtrak's sleek new fleet just hit the D.C.–NYC–Boston line, promising high-speed travel and luxury upgrades. But riders may be surprised by what hasn't changed. Think roomier seats and 5G WiFi... without the faster trips. Curious why?

🎈 Ever wondered what it feels like to drift above the countryside at sunrise? Fauquier County’s annual Hot Air Balloon Festival is back this September, offering balloon rides, vintage biplane flights, and airshows that will have you looking to the skies.

🥬 A new kind of farm is coming to Fairfax… and it’s not what you’d expect. An underused corner of the city is about to turn into a hub for fresh produce, local art, and hands-on learning.

Driving the news: Amtrak launched its new NextGen Acela high-speed trains on August 28, bringing upgraded comfort and capacity to riders on the Northeast Corridor between Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston. The first five of 28 trainsets are now in service — but actual speed improvements are still limited due to existing infrastructure.

Details:

• The new fleet is designed to reach speeds up to 160 mph, 10 mph faster than the previous Acela — but current tracks and systems are keeping it to the same schedule for now.

• Seats are wider and more ergonomic, with USB ports and power outlets at every spot.

• Larger windows and free 5G WiFi aim to upgrade the passenger experience.

• Five trains are live, with all 28 expected to be in service by 2027.

• Cafe Acela includes self-serve checkout and expanded food options.

• First-class menus feature meals curated by East Coast restaurateur Stephen Starr.

Why it matters: This is a meaningful upgrade for D.C. commuters and travelers. While speeds aren’t faster yet, the new trains offer a quieter, more spacious, and more connected ride — a welcome improvement for work trips and weekend escapes alike.

The big picture: The NextGen Acela rollout marks a large-scale modernization of Amtrak’s busiest corridor. It reflects the company’s long-term bet on high-speed rail — aiming to compete with airlines and meet rising expectations for comfort and connectivity.

The bottom line: D.C. now has a smoother, more modern rail link to the Northeast that blends convenience with upgraded comfort — even if the full speed boost is still waiting on track improvements.

READ MORE→

Driving the news: The Flying Circus Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival is set for September 20–21 in Fauquier County, offering both tethered and free-flight balloon rides alongside airshows and family fun.

Details:

• Location: 5114 Ritchie Rd. (Route 644), Bealeton

• Gates open: 6 a.m.

• Balloon launches: 7–9 a.m. & 6–8 p.m.

• Tethered rides: $20 adults / $10 kids (cash only)

• Free-flight rides: $300 per person

• Biplane rides: $135–$200 per passenger

• Airshows: 1:30 p.m. both days

Why it matters: This annual festival gives Northern Virginia families and visitors a chance to experience the thrill of ballooning and aviation in a relaxed, scenic setting, all without leaving the region.

Local businesses benefit from the influx of visitors, making it a boost for Fauquier County’s tourism and economy.

Between the lines: Reservations aren’t accepted — so early arrivals are key. Morning and evening launches are especially popular for their cooler air and dramatic skies.

The bottom line: Whether you want to soar above Fauquier County or simply watch the balloons rise with a snack in hand, this event promises a sky-high weekend adventure for all ages.

MORE DETAILS→

Is Ashburn, Virginia, really one of the best places to live in the entire country?
Let's find out!

💬 Let’s Connect: Buying, Selling, or Growing Your Brand in Northern Virginia?

Whether you’re looking to move to Fairfax, Prince William, Winchester, Alexandria, Arlington, or Reston — or want help growing your business with smart, local content — I’ve got you covered.

📍 Explore homes for sale across Northern Virginia
📲 DM me on Instagram for real estate or content marketing help
💼 Visit ColganTeam.com to learn more or collaborate on your next project

Driving the news: Area 2 Farms is expanding to Fairfax Circle with a new urban farm at 9571 Fairfax Blvd., set to open by year’s end.

The soil-based vertical farm will grow fresh vegetables, microgreens, and herbs for year-round local distribution.

Details:

• The Fairfax location builds on Area 2's successful Arlington site, which has delivered 20,000+ harvests and hosted over 1,500 student visits.

• Produce will be available through a CSA program and a community farm stand.

• The farm is backed by a 10-year lease, a Fairfax City Economic Development Authority grant of $25,000, and zoning updates approved in 2024.

• The space will include community art (like a mural) and partnerships with schools and civic groups.

The big picture: This is a win for Fairfax locals. The project transforms a long-vacant site into a productive, eco-conscious space that increases access to healthy, local food and strengthens neighborhood connections.

Urban agriculture is gaining momentum as cities rethink how to fill unused spaces. Area 2’s approach—bringing farms directly into the community—offers a more transparent, local alternative to traditional food supply chains.

What’s next: Expect fresh produce on shelves and in CSA boxes before the end of 2025.

The farm will also begin engaging with local schools to launch hands-on learning experiences.

READ MORE→

🔹 Friday - Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in Concert

The epic finale of the Harry Potter saga comes alive as the National Symphony Orchestra performs the score alongside a full film screening on Wolf Trap’s stage.
📍 Location: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, VA
📅 Date & Time: Sep 5, 8 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $50
🌐 Website: https://www.wolftrap.org

🔹 Saturday - DC State Fair

Celebrate D.C.’s 16th annual state fair, a community showcase of local agricultural, culinary, and artistic talent. Enjoy live music, workshops, demonstrations, and contests for produce, art, baked goods, and more.
📍 Location: Bryant Street NE, Washington, DC
📅 Date & Time: Sep 6, 10 AM – 5 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🌐 Website: https://www.dcstatefair.org

🔹 Sunday - Cirque du Soleil: LUZIA

Step into a dreamlike world of Mexico with dazzling acrobatics, vivid colors, and surreal storytelling under the big top tent at Tysons Galleria.
📍 Location: 8025 Galleria Dr., Tysons, VA
📅 Date & Time: Sep 6 – Oct 19
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $60
🌐 Website: https://www.cirquedusoleil.com/luzia

MORE THINGS TO DO→

Washington, DC’s housing market is holding steady—but don’t get too comfy. Median sale prices slipped 1.1% to around $703K, and homes linger about 56 days—14 days longer than last year. Buyers still make roughly two offers per listing, with a 98.2% sale-to-list ratio and just 20% selling above list.

For Buyers: More time to negotiate and less competition mean better leverage—if you’re ready to move when the right home pops up.

For Sellers: Pricing strategically is key. With fewer bidding wars, standout marketing and presentation will help you attract motivated buyers fast.

• Prince William County joins Digital Gateway developers' motions to keep the project moving

• VA250 Mobile Museum in Culpeper this week, heading to Lorton later this month