FREDERICKSBURG, Va. (Oct. 12, 2026) – The Virginia Municipal League (VML) recognized City leaders on Sunday at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott, presenting them with the 2026 Innovation Award in Communications for the “Fredericksburg: Still Making History” campaign.
Fredericksburg was one of seven Virginia localities honored during an awards ceremony at VML’s annual conference.
“An idea we put on paper last year has grown into a truly authentic Fredericksburg campaign to tell the amazing story of our city, and to have it recognized statewide is truly inspiring,” said City of Fredericksburg Tourism Marketing and Communications Manager Danelle Rose.
The City’s Economic Development & Tourism (EDT) Office created their tourism campaign built around a simple idea: What if George Washington returned to his hometown today?
Rather than only focusing on the Fredericksburg that Washington knew, the campaign brought George back to experience the City it has become today. Through a series of videos, photography, social media content, digital advertising, and public appearances, he revisited historic locations while discovering locally owned restaurants, shops, culture, outdoor recreation and other modern-day Fredericksburg experiences.
The campaign was brought to life in partnership with Second Sight Creative, which helped transform the City’s vision into a compelling visual experience.
“’Still Making History’ allowed Fredericksburg to connect its nationally significant past with its present-day identity,” said Rose. “Instead of treating history as something that ended centuries ago, the campaign reinforces that Fredericksburg’s story continues to be written by the businesses, organizations, residents and visitors who are part of the community today.”
What began as a local initiative, quickly grew into a statewide conversation with the campaign going viral across multiple social media and digital platforms. Its strong visual identity and engaging storytelling resonated with several audiences, generating millions of impressions from audiences across the country.
“We’re thrilled to be recognized by the Virginia Municipal League,” said Mayor Kerry Devine. “Our goal is always to celebrate Fredericksburg’s enduring spirit and share our story in a way that resonates with both residents and visitors.”
The EDT Office continues to explore innovative approaches to communication, supporting the City’s mission to inform and inspire its diverse community. To view all videos associated with the award-winning campaign, check out the “Visit Fredericksburg, VA” YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/FredericksburgVA.
For more information about Fredericksburg’s EDT initiatives, visit fxbg.com.