Saturday, September 13

Off-trail Birding

Bring binoculars and field guides to Huntley Meadows Park from 7 to 10 a.m. to look for the last wave of neo-tropical migrants moving through and the arrival of winter visitors. Meet at the park’s South King’s Highway and Telegraph Road entrance. Reservations are required for this free adult hike. To reserve, call r703-768-2525.

Saturday, September 13

Ice Cream Making

See how ice cream was made in the past and learn some facts about America’s favorite treat at Colvin Run Mill from noon to 4 p.m. Then help hand-crank a delicious batch of ice cream and sample your efforts for $1 per cup. For information, call 703-759-2771.

Saturday, September 13

Creature Feature

Join a naturalist from Hidden Oaks Nature Center at Woodrow Wilson Library in Falls Church from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. as she shares the antics of squirrels wonder using stories, demonstrations, and live animals. This free program is fun for all ages. To reserve, call 703-820-8774.

Saturday, September 13

Fall Wildflowers: Goldenrods & Milkweeds

Take a leisurely stroll to look for fall flowers at Cub Run RECenter from 1 to 2 p.m. Learn from a naturalist and gardener about the many plants growing along the trails. Reservations are required. The cost is $4 per person. To reserve, call 703-817-9407.

Saturday, September 13

Get Outdoors and Play 101

Learn about the research on nature deficit disorder from 3 to 4 p.m. and how Hidden Oaks Nature Center naturalists can guide parents with young children in discovering safe ways to play outside. When children play in nature, they learn lifelong appreciation and benefit mentally, physically and often even get better grades in school. Venture into “Nature Playce,” a free-play area in the woods, and share the wonder of nature with your child. Reservations are required. This program is free for families with children ages two years and older. To reserve, call 703-941-1065.

Saturday, September 13

Saving Your Treasures - Tender Perennials

Learn simple, successful propagation techniques at Green Spring Gardens from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and take home perennials. Your new talent will save you money in spring! The cost is $22 per person. To reserve, call 703-642-5173.

Saturday, September 13

NEW! Designing with Perennials Series

From 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Green Spring Gardens, explore the principles of combining perennials and woody plants to bring out the best in your garden design. Learn how to identify and choose plants, where to place them, and how to maintain them. The series combines indoor presentations with outdoor explorations and covers shape and repose. The cost is $18 per session. To reserve, call 703-642-5173.

Saturday, September 13

Orienteering Workshop

Join the Quantico Orienteering Club (QOC) at Lake Accotink Park from noon to 2 p.m. to celebrate National Orienteering Day. Courses are available for all levels and all ages. This program is perfect for individuals or groups. Meet at the parking lot by the dam underneath the railroad trestle. Follow the orange and white signs from parking lots to meeting place. The cost is $6 per person. For information, call 703-569-0285.

Saturdays, September 13

Park Manager’s Walk & Talk

Share questions and concerns with the manager of Huntley Meadows Park on a free hike from 4 to 6 p.m. Find out about the wetland restoration project and look for the wildlife. Reservations are required for this adults-only program. To reserve, call 703-768-2525.