In this week’s update:

🏟️ Something massive might be coming to Southeast D.C.: Think bigger than a stadium. Smarter than a screen. And way more immersive than you’ve ever experienced.

📉 Virginia just lost its No. 1 spot on CNBC’s list of top states for business—and the reason why is sparking a lot of debate. From federal shakeups to surprising shifts in the rankings, here’s what’s behind the drop.

🎡 NoVA’s Summer Finale Is Coming In Hot… From historic traditions to mouthwatering food and hidden gem performances, August in Northern Virginia is packed with fairs you don’t want to miss.

Driving the news: Los Angeles-based Cosm Inc. is scouting Southeast D.C. as a potential home for its next high-tech sports venue—an 87-foot, 12K LED dome that delivers shared reality experiences for fans of everything from the Super Bowl to Swifties.

Details: Cosm’s immersive venues blur the line between watching and experiencing. The tech-forward facilities combine ultra-bright LED domes with social seating, food service, and live-streamed sports and entertainment from around the globe.

• D.C. sites under review are near Nationals Park and Audi Field.

• The company is working with KLNB to secure 40,000–80,000 square feet.

• Cosm raised $250M in July 2024 to fuel expansion into cities with strong sports demand.

Why it matters: A Cosm venue in D.C. would bring an entertainment option unlike anything else in the region.

With the District positioning itself as the “Sports Capital,” this could boost tourism, attract younger tech-savvy visitors, and stimulate real estate development near stadium corridors.

The big picture: Cosm has already launched in Los Angeles and Dallas, with Cleveland, Detroit, and Atlanta on deck.

D.C. could be a cultural and commercial flagship thanks to its fan base, transit accessibility, and year-round tourism.

What’s next: While no deal has been finalized, real estate chatter in Southeast D.C. is heating up.

If a location is secured, construction could move quickly thanks to the company’s existing infrastructure and funding.

READ MORE→

Driving the news: Virginia, once CNBC’s top-ranked state for business, has fallen to No. 4 in the 2025 rankings—its lowest position since 2018.

While still strong in education (1st) and infrastructure (2nd), the state’s economy dropped to 14th, largely due to federal budget cuts, agency downsizing, and tariffs under the second Trump administration.

Why it matters:

• Federal dependence backfires: With over 290,000 Virginians tied to federal jobs or contracts, cuts have had an outsized impact.

• Job losses loom: Up to 32,000 jobs could be lost this year; unemployment may rise to 4.6% in 2026.

• Private sector growth vs. federal pullback: While Governor Youngkin touts strong private investment and job openings, critics argue many of those jobs pay less than the federal ones being cut.

• Political flashpoint: The rankings have reignited debate between Virginia’s leaders over how to best navigate federal shifts and economic resilience, with 2025 gubernatorial candidates using it as a campaign issue.

Despite the drop, Virginia remains a top competitor, just 36 points behind North Carolina’s winning score. But the shift in CNBC’s ranking priorities—especially a heavier focus on economic resilience—highlights how vulnerable even a “business powerhouse” can be to federal policy changes.

READ MORE→

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From funnel cakes and Ferris wheels to historic traditions and local brews, Northern Virginia is closing out summer in style. August brings a stacked lineup of fairs and festivals that celebrate everything from community spirit to agricultural roots—and there’s something for everyone.

Here are 7 fairs worth road-tripping for this month:

Prince William County Fair

📍Manassas | 🗓️ Aug 12–20
Classic Americana meets modern fun with rides, livestock, crafts, and live country music.

Fairfax County Fair

📍Herndon | 🗓️ Aug 8–17
A multicultural celebration with global food, ethnic performances, and local brews.

Arlington County Fair

📍Arlington | 🗓️ Aug 14–18
Big charm in a small footprint—local eats, handmade goods, and neighborhood vibes.

Loudoun County Fair

📍Leesburg | 🗓️ Aug 1–9
Farm demos, historic exhibits, and a wine & beer garden? Count us in.

Fredericksburg Agricultural Fair

📍Fredericksburg | 🗓️ Jul 25–Aug 3
America’s oldest fair with 1700s flair and carnival fun for today’s families.

Warren County Fair

📍Front Royal | 🗓️ Aug 5–13
Shenandoah Valley backdrop + bluegrass beats = the perfect summer sendoff.

Clarke County Fair

📍Berryville | 🗓️ Aug 28–31
Small but mighty. Think 4-H shows, homemade pies, and good old-fashioned fun.

Pro tip: Bring cash, comfy shoes, and a big appetite. Fair-hopping is totally doable (and totally worth it).

☀️ Whether you're in it for the rides, the music, or the community feels—this is Northern Virginia’s summer finale. Make it count.

READ THE FULL GUIDE→

🔹 Friday - Bask & Basket: The Perfect Picnic

Enjoy a charming picnic experience at the National Mall with friends, family, or a special someone. Choose from a pre-packed breakfast or lunch basket—or just rent the setup and bring your own food. Everything you need for a relaxing day in the heart of D.C. is included.
📍 Location: 10th Street & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC
📅 Date & Time: July 17–20
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $58.30
🌐 Website: https://www.nps.gov/nama/planyourvisit/bask-and-basket

🔹 Saturday - The International Colombian Festival

Celebrate Colombian culture with a full day of live music, dancing, food, and drinks. This high-energy festival features performances from more than 13 artists, including Los Embajadores Vallenatos, Cathia, and La Marvela.
📍 Location: 3598 John McCormack Rd. NE, Washington, DC
📅 Date & Time: July 19, 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $23.57
🌐 Website: https://colombianfestivaldc.com

🔹 Sunday - Lotus and Water Lily Festival

Explore the beauty of the lotus blooms at this three-day cultural celebration. Activities include outdoor yoga, scavenger hunts, art, fashion, dance, live music, and more—all surrounded by the serene aquatic gardens.
📍 Location: 1550 Anacostia Ave. NE, Washington, DC
📅 Date & Time: July 18–20, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🌐 Website: https://www.nps.gov/keaq/planyourvisit/lotus-and-water-lily-festival

MORE THINGS TO DO→

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