Park Programs Provide Supportive Setting for Young Shoppers

Visitors to Fairfax County Park Authority gift shops located at historic sites and nature centers will find a variety of unique holiday shopping ideas this season. Everything from freshly ground flour to books, quill pens, farm toys and games can be purchased. And as an added service, shopping experiences designed specifically for children are available. Kids can share in the spirit of giving and shop for family members under the supervision of adults.

Volunteers will be on-hand to help children shop for everybody on their holiday list at Frying Pan Farm Park’s Country Store. Unique, farm-themed items in all price ranges will be available. A free wrapping service is included. Meet at the Old Floris Schoolhouse. This program is offered on Saturday, December 6 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. and from 2 to 5 p.m. on Monday, December 8. Adults are invited to wait at the schoolhouse. For more information, call 703-437-9101. Frying Pan Farm Park is located at 2709 West Ox Road in Chantilly.

The Colvin Run Mill General Store is stocked with unique gifts for all ages at reasonable prices. Volunteers will help children shop. Enjoy a free wrapping service. Adults are required to wait on site. Call ahead for groups of six or more. This program is offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, December 6, from noon to 4 p.m., on Sunday, December 7, and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Monday, December 8. For information, call 703-759-2771. Colvin Run Mill is located at 10017 Colvin Road in Great Falls.

Enjoy an afternoon of shopping with a ten percent discount on most merchandise during a free event at the Huntley Meadows Visitor Center from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, December 14. Tasty treats and holiday crafts will also be available. For information, call 703-768-2525. Huntley Meadows Park is located at 3701 Lockheed Blvd. in Alexandria.

Drop your children off at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park Visitor Center for fun, food and holiday shopping from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 20! Kids will create two natural holiday crafts, shop at the gift shop, eat lunch and roast s’mores. Activities will be held inside and outdoors. Bring a bag lunch. This program is suited for children ages 6 to 11. Reservations are required. The cost is $20 per child. To reserve, call 703-631-0013. E.C. Lawrence Park is located at 5040 Walney Rd. in Chantilly.