Alert:
12/21/2025 4:00 pm
(5-Adult) Celebrate the first day of winter and shortest day of the year with a Park Naturalist for an outing into the forest and wetland at sunset on this December evening. We will look and listen for signs of nocturnal wildlife.
12/27/2025 2:30 pm
(4-Adult) Enjoy a brief presentation and demonstration by our animal caretaker staff. At least one snake, two turtles and a toad will be fed. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
12/28/2025 6:30 pm
(4-Adult) Barred owls inhabit our stream valley parks. Learn to identify these owls from other native owls while enjoying the campfire. Toast marshmallows over the embers. Canceled in case of inclement weather. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/01/2026 6:30 am
(4-adult) Take a hike with a naturalist in the early morning to view the stunning first sunrise of the year as it crests over the lake. Rejuvenate as you walk along the park trails and signal in the new year. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/01/2026 4:00 pm
(4-Adult) Take a hike with a naturalist in the evening to view the stunning first sunset of the year as it sets over the lake. Rejuvenate as you walk along the park trails and signal in the new year. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/02/2026 11:00 am to 01/02/2026 12:00 pm
Sensory friendly times at theCub Run Rec Center Leisure Poolwelcomes individuals and families who need spaces with reduced sensory input. The indoor water park features a water playground with slides, water jets, cannons and sprays; a lazy river; and large tube slides for those 48…
01/02/2026 6:00 pm
(6-Adult) This program is a tour of the planets and moons of our Solar System which are viewable in the current night sky. The classroom discussion is followed by an observatory session of planets and the stars beyond in telescopes, weather permitting. No knowledge of astronomy is needed, just an interest in learning about the universe. The course is held rain or clear…
01/03/2026 11:00 am to 01/03/2026 12:00 pm
(4-Adult) Learn the science and art of building a fire and then test your skill with primitive fire bows and modern fire-making techniques. Use your new skills to roast some s'mores at the end. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/03/2026 11:00 am to 01/03/2026 12:00 pm
(3-Adult) Explore the trails with a naturalist to learn about the different characteristics that can be used to identify birds. Keep an eye on your surroundings as you fill out a bingo sheet to better connect to our friends in the sky.
01/03/2026 1:00 pm
(14-Adult) Explore the 5 parameters of what makes a food system truly green and gain the skills and knowledge to be a part of the solution to food issues. Learn the truth about the pollinator plight, factory farming and food deserts and how we can support regenerative farming practices through eating locally. Take a hike through the park in search of edible plants,…
01/03/2026 4:45 pm
(6-Adult) Join a park naturalist for a guided walk along the forested paths to the wetland and experience the park as it transitions from day into night. Watch and listen for nocturnal residents such as beavers and owls.
01/03/2026 5:00 pm
(5-Adult) Create a magical evening experience with a guided lantern walk around the lake. Participants will carry battery operated lanterns or LED candles while learning about winter wildlife, nocturnal animals and seasonal changes in the ecosystem. The program will include brief educational stops, opportunities for quiet reflection by the water and a hot cocoa…
01/03/2026 6:00 pm
(6-Adult) Enjoy nature's tranquil beauty and the night sky under a full moon. Your naturalist guide points out signs of creatures that glide, fly and tiptoe through the woods in the dark. Enjoy a campfire after the hike with s'mores provided. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/04/2026 8:00 am to 01/04/2026 10:00 am
(8-Adult) Hike with a naturalist to search winter waterfowl along the Upper Potomac River. Bring binoculars and spotting scopes.
01/04/2026 10:30 am to 01/04/2026 11:30 am
(2-5 yrs.) With the help of Mr. Bear, learn about the weather with a felt-board story, bubble play, an ice cube race and songs. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
01/04/2026 1:00 pm
(5-Adult) Using found natural objects and recycled materials we will craft unique pieces of art for you and your family to take home and proudly display. Materials included in price.
01/04/2026 1:00 pm
(3-9 yrs.) Create fun crafts and activities. Build and race penguins and create a snowmen. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Membership table Arts and crafts*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Aquatic Climbing Wall Popcorn Enjoy Water Play Features in the Pool Extended Climbing Wall Hours Meet with a Personal Trainer Water Ex/Learn to Swim Information Table Recreation Classes Demos Camp/Class Information…01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Membership table Arts and crafts*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Membership table Arts and crafts*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Membership table Giveaways Arts and crafts*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Membership table Arts and crafts*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Membership table Arts and crafts*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Membership table Arts and crafts*Please note that free admission requires sign up for a free, 7-day trial membership or purchase of a 30-day for $30 pass.
01/04/2026 2:00 pm to 01/04/2026 5:00 pm
Enjoy free admission* and learn more about membership! Join from 2 to 5 p.m. for:
Kung Fu demo (ages 13+): 2-4 p.m. Ping Pong: 2-5 p.m. Paper Crafts and Beading by Green Tea: 2-5 p.m. 3D Printing demo by Youth Technologies: 2-5 p.m. Beginning Athletes: 3-5 p.m. Membership table*Please note…
01/04/2026 6:30 pm to 01/04/2026 7:15 pm
(3-7 yrs.) Put on your pajamas and come to the nature center to hear bedtime stories, meet animals and wish goodnight to the center's live animals. Bring your favorite stuffed animal with you. One adult only per registered child.
01/05/2026 7:00 am to 03/29/2026 7:00 pm
Introducing our 2nd Annual Trackman league! Golfers play four, 9-hole rounds at some of the best courses in the world, from the comfort of our indoor Trackman 4 studio. Golfers will have three weeks to play each course and will be allowed up to four attempts, of which the best score will be counted.
Schedule:
Round 1 – Royal…01/05/2026 8:00 am
(16-Adult) Celebrate National Bird Day and join a Park Naturalist to assist with the Christmas Bird Count by learning how to identify different bird species found in the forest and wetland habitats. We will tally different species we find and end the program with complementary bagels and coffee.
01/06/2026 1:00 pm
(4-Adult) Learn how the Powhatan Native Americans used the plants and animals you see every day for their medicine, grocery store and clothing. Immerse yourself in a way of life 400 years ago. Grind corn, make a clay pot, master corn darts and go on a guided tour to see the park from the perspective of a Virginia Indian.
01/07/2026 1:30 pm
(8-12 yrs.) Students will investigate what adaptations and behaviors are needed to survive in various biomes by examining a different creature each week. Students will create their own 3-D species and habitat using various art mediums and utilizing the engineering design process.
01/08/2026 6:30 pm
(16-Adult) Learn how to needle felt wool and other fibers to create a cute snowman with personality. Supplies for the project are included in the class fee. Class meets two Thursday nights.
01/09/2026 4:00 pm
(4-Adult) Sip hot cocoa and join a naturalist for a special winter wonder wetland tour after dark. We will look for signs and listen for sounds of beavers, owls, deer and other nocturnal winter animals. Participants are encouraged to bring their own mug to help us reduce waste. Children must be accompanied by registered adult.
01/10/2026 10:00 am
(5-Adult) Branches may be bare, but your garden can still be a place for birds to thrive. Create a natural bird feeder mobile out of pinecones, it even doubles as an art piece! Hang it in your garden and watch the birds flock. All attendees, including parents, must be registered for the program.
01/10/2026 10:00 am
(10-Adult) Come enjoy a little creative time in the wild through poetry and drawing outdoors! Join naturalist and artist Margaret Wohler as we combine writing exercises and basic drawing skills to create a field page filled with images and words describing the Huntley wetlands and woods. Families are welcome. All drawing materials will be provided.
01/10/2026 11:00 am to 01/10/2026 12:00 pm
(8-Adult) Identify some of Fairfax County's common invasive plant species. Explore ways to lessen these plants around your home.
01/10/2026 1:00 pm to 01/10/2026 2:30 pm
(3-Adult) Bring your child to the mill and celebrate winter with this snowflake-themed tea party. You'll enjoy tea, savory and sweet treats, along with a winter craft and 19th century games. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/10/2026 1:00 pm
(5-Adult) Explore the fascinating world of winter wildlife. Kids will listen to a story about how animals adapt to the colder months, we will identify animal tracks and signs, and then we will create an animal track inspired craft.
01/10/2026 1:00 pm to 01/10/2026 2:00 pm
(4-13 yrs.) Join a naturalist as they demonstrate how we feed our site display animals. Make a birdfeeder to take home and use. Search for worms and insects and assist in serving dinner. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
01/10/2026 2:00 pm
(6-10 yrs.) Celebrate the cold with an engineering challenge with a seasonal twist. Think like an engineer to solve this fun winter themed challenge.
01/10/2026 2:00 pm
(6-Adult) Delve into the history of the American Chestnut and learn about efforts to revitalize what was once an iconic North American tree. Enjoy a fire while cooking and sampling chestnuts from an American Chestnut relative. Program is held at the Woodland Stewardship Education Center.
01/10/2026 2:00 pm
(5-Adult) Investigate the innovative engineering solutions plants have evolved through millions of years of natural selection and adaptation. Discover how forest flora inspires cutting-age technologies from velcro to solar panels through biomimetic research and design. This hands-on program demonstrates how botanical structures and mechanisms are revolutionizing modern…
01/10/2026 4:00 pm
(5-Adult) Examine the sophisticated structural engineering found in animal constructions from beaver dams to bird nests and insect colonies. Discover how these natural building techniques inspire modern architectural innovations and sustainable design solutions. This interactive program explores the intersection of biological systems and human engineering through…
01/11/2026 10:00 am
(8-Adult) Join us for a tour of caches throughout Fairfax County. Hunt for hidden treasures throughout our park system using a GPS. Join one class or sign up for them all. Equipment provided.
01/11/2026 1:00 pm
(Adults) As Fairfax County commemorates 250 years of America, take a deep dive into Emanuel Leutze’s 1851 iconic painting of one of the most notable Revolutionary War events, Washington Crossing the Delaware. Explore the surprising misconceptions and meanings of this celebrated work of art with Historic House staff member and learn what you don’t know about one of the…
01/11/2026 1:00 pm to 01/11/2026 3:00 pm
(Adults) Take a deep dive into Emanuel Leutze’s 1851 iconic painting of one of the most notable Revolutionary War events, Washington Crossing the Delaware. Explore the surprising misconceptions and meanings of this celebrated work of art and learn what you don’t know about one of the most recognizable paintings of American history.
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01/11/2026 1:30 pm
(16-Adult) Join Hardy Kern, Director of Government Relations for American Bird Conservancy’s Pesticides and Birds Campaigns, for an engaging talk on how to garden with birds in mind—even in small or container spaces. Learn how to choose bird-safe plants, avoid common outdoor hazards and create welcoming habitats with food, water and shelter. Whether you have a backyard…
01/11/2026 7:00 pm
(4-Adult) Enjoy an evening around the campfire, toasting marshmallows over the embers and learn about flying squirrels that live in our area. Cancelled in case of inclement weather. Children must attend with an adult and all attendees must register.
01/12/2026 10:00 am
(1-3 yrs.) Bring your toddler to explore nature through sight, sound, smell and touch. Programs include indoor and outdoor activities. Adult must be able to participate with children. A different amazing topic every month.
Sign up for a session starting at 10 a.m. and 11 a.m.
01/12/2026 10:30 am
(3-5 yrs.) Your preschooler enjoys nature-themed toys and puzzles while you meet other playgroup parents one Monday a month. Through games, songs, activities and a garden walk we explore seasonal topics. Kids must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who does not need to register for the program. Siblings under 3 welcome to accompany parent without registering.
01/14/2026 11:00 am to 01/14/2026 11:45 am
(1-3 yrs.) Hop through history with your toddler as they explore the past through sight, sound, smell and touch. This interactive program features both indoor and outdoor activities. Adults must participate with children. A new historical topic is introduced every month.
01/14/2026 4:30 pm
(3-Adult) It's dinner time at the nature center and worms and insects are on the menu. Help our naturalist care for and feed the nature center's animals.
01/15/2026 1:00 pm
(6-Adult) Explore the exciting world of science with fun hands-on experiments, activities, and challenges. Enrich your understanding of various science and engineering topics using scientific investigations, observations, and lab skills with the guidance of a park naturalist. Each outdoor class will focus on a different science theme. ...
01/16/2026 6:00 pm
(5-Adult) Join us for an evening campfire the whole family can enjoy. Explore the wonders of our natural world through nature walks, interactive activities and animal presentations. Includes s’mores. Topics vary by date. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/17/2026 8:00 am to 01/17/2026 9:00 am
(4-Adult) Take a hike through the woods with a naturalist to listen and look for the park’s winter avian residents and migrants. Find out what birds do to survive the winter weather. Feel free to bring your own guides, binoculars and spotting scopes. Site will have a limited number of supplies for participants to borrow for the duration of the…
01/17/2026 5:00 pm
(3-Adult) Enjoy a stroll along the lake shores and learn about the constellations, their stories and other night-sky features. Our astronomical naturalist will identify the stars and will have some telescopes to use. The program concludes with a campfire. S'mores ingredients provided. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/17/2026 5:30 pm to 01/17/2026 7:00 pm
(3-Adult) Enjoy a stroll along the lake shores and learn about the constellations, their stories and other night-sky features. Our astronomical naturalist will identify the stars and will have some telescopes to use. The program concludes with a campfire. S'mores ingredients provided. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult.
01/17/2026 8:00 pm
(8-Adult) Join a park naturalist as they take you on a tour of constellations, comets and other current events happening in the skies above. Children must be accompanied by adult also registered in the program.
01/18/2026 1:30 pm
(16-Adult) Step into the enchanting world of fairy gardens with Green Spring’s fairy expert, Bailey Price. Discover how these miniature landscapes have larger-than-life impacts by sparking imagination and creativity, deepening our connection to nature and even strengthening community bonds. Learn how to create your own fairy garden, from design themes and plant…
01/19/2026 11:00 am to 01/19/2026 2:00 pm
(4-Adult) Introduce your young ones to Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center. Learn about Martin Luther King Jr. and the importance of giving back to our community. Rotate through stations to hear about the Civil Rights Movement, participate in a service project and reflect on the power of community cooperation.…
01/24/2026 9:30 am to 01/31/2026 11:30 am
(16-Adult) Woodpeckers are keystone species which help many other forest animals by excavating holes in trees. Learn about our six local species, their lifestyles and adaptations. The two sessions include a hike, natural history information, drawing tips, journal page ideas and making a whimsical woodpecker creation.
01/24/2026 10:30 am
(2-6 yrs.) Explore the ever-changing landscape of the garden. Each week, participants will explore and discover the changes in the garden. This program will feature seasonal activities that can include planting seeds, pollinators, harvesting vegetables, digging in the soil and exploring plant parts. Adults must attend with a registered child.
01/24/2026 10:30 am
(16-Adult) Join Extension Master Gardeners to learn about the different types of orchids, the easy varieties to grow and how to use these plants in your home and even in the landscape. Learn beginner care to keep orchids blooming in your home.
01/24/2026 4:00 pm
(14-Adult) Few things improved the daily life of the farm family more than the radio. Learn how radio technology advanced during both World War I and II and listen to famous moments in radio history. Join us for a tour through history by hearing and seeing the antique radios from that time.
01/25/2026 1:30 pm to 01/25/2026 2:30 pm
(16-Adult) Dogs are well known for their powerful noses, and those sniffing superpowers are proving to be invaluable for conservation efforts.
Join Laura Holder, founder of Conservation Dogs Collective, for an inside look at the groundbreaking work her team of canine conservationists is doing. These specially trained dogs are using their…
02/01/2026 1:30 pm to 02/01/2026 2:30 pm
(16-Adult) Designed as a tranquil, rejuvenating retreat for the end of the day, a moon garden comes to life at twilight and into the night. Discover with Green Spring horticulturist, Pam Smith, how to cultivate this serene space with plants that glow softly in the dark and foliage that shimmers in the moonlight.
Silvery leaves and…
02/07/2026 12:00 pm
(All Ages) In honor of Black History Month, the Frying Pan Baptist Meetinghouse will be open from noon-2 p.m.
Interpretive signage will be posted throughout the site for guests to read about the Black history of the Meeting House and stories of the people from the community. Stay for just a few minutes or a couple hours.
Registration is free but…
02/08/2026 6:00 pm to 02/08/2026 8:00 pm
(Ages 3–Adult | Children must be accompanied by a registered adult)
Get ready for an unforgettable night under the stars as Twin Lakes Golf Course comes alive with Lunar New Year festivities! Celebrate the season with:
Spectacular live performances of martial arts, dance, and music Interactive cultural games and hands-on…02/14/2026 1:00 pm
(Adults) Love has been a subject for artists throughout history. In honor of St. Valentine’s Day, enjoy representations of the emotion on canvas. Discover art that shows love of many kinds – romantic, maternal, brotherly and patriotic. Be inspired, amused, moved, and elevated as we delve into the heart of art.
02/15/2026 1:30 pm to 02/15/2026 2:30 pm
(16- Adult) Discover how 18th-century neighbors built community through the exchange of seeds, cuttings and garden knowledge. Join Holly Gruntner, Mount Vernon’s landscape historian for a look at how early Americans shared plants, ideas and innovations—shaping both their gardens and relationships. Explore the social and botanical networks that…
02/17/2026 11:00 am to 02/17/2026 12:00 pm
Sensory friendly times at theCub Run Rec Center Leisure Poolwelcomes individuals and families who need spaces with reduced sensory input. The indoor water park features a water playground with slides, water jets, cannons and sprays; a lazy river; and large tube slides for those 48…
02/21/2026 12:00 pm
(All Ages) In honor of Black History Month, the Frying Pan Baptist Meetinghouse will be open from noon-2 p.m.
Interpretive signage will be posted throughout the site for guests to read about the Black history of the Meeting House and stories of the people from the community. Stay for just a few minutes or a couple hours.
Registration is free but…
02/22/2026 1:00 pm to 02/22/2026 3:00 pm
(Adults) There’s nothing quite like it for all kinds of things. Tea can be used in a multitude of different, and surprising, ways – from cleaning Persian rugs to feeding plants. We’ll help you get the most out of your used tea bags or leftover brew with a variety of practical uses for tea.
Please note: All tea food for this afternoon tea…
03/08/2026 1:00 pm to 03/08/2026 3:00 pm
Women’s vocal ensemble The Seraphim Quartet performs as ladies of the Renaissance. History of the period is revealed through authentic songs and dances and enlivened by audience involvement. Enjoy the ladies’ musings on life and love and find yourself transported to the court of Henry VIII with songs composed by the king himself.
04/10/2026 11:00 am to 04/10/2026 12:00 pm
Sensory friendly times at theCub Run Rec Center Leisure Poolwelcomes individuals and families who need spaces with reduced sensory input. The indoor water park features a water playground with slides, water jets, cannons and sprays; a lazy river; and large tube slides for those 48…
05/02/2026 7:30 am to 05/02/2026 9:30 am
Collect your cosmic power in preparation for the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K!