Fairfax County Celebrates 250 Years of History

Published on
06/02/2026
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America is celebrating its 250th birthday this year and Fairfax County offers plenty of ways to join the festivities. With activities and programs defined for residents of all ages, these events remind us how much of our nation’s history took place right here in our own backyard and allow us to memorialize the people, places and moments that helped define Fairfax County today.

 

Fairfax250 Signature Events

Events celebrating the county’s semiquincentennial are plentiful, with our parks, libraries and local history partners offering programs throughout the year. However, here are two signature events that you might want to place on your calendar.

  • Fairfax County Brewfest: 250th Celebration Edition
    Saturday, June 13, 11 a.m. 
    Bunnyman Brewing Chantilly
    Fairfax County breweries are coming together for a one-of-a-kind celebration of local craft beer, community and a milestone moment in history. This special edition of Brewfest is in partnership with the Fairfax County 250th Commission to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of U.S. Independence with live music, limited brews and fun activities. Learn more.
     
  • Lake Fairfax Independence Day Celebration
    Saturday, June 27, noon to 10 p.m.
    Lake Fairfax Park
    Celebrate America’s 250th with a spectacular drone light show at Lake Fairfax Park. Enjoy live music, food trucks and family-friendly fun throughout the day, followed by a synchronized aerial display lighting up the night sky. More info and tickets.

 

Explore Fairfax250 – Your Way

This nation wasn’t built in a matter of months and the Fairfax250 events aren’t relegated only to summer. Here are some self-guided activities to explore throughout the year to help you learn about local history.

  • Explore the County with the History Trail Pass
    Explore Fairfax County's wide range of historic and cultural attractions and be entered to win monthly prizes. For every site you visit and check in to during any given month, you will receive an entry to win that month's prize. The more places you check in, the more entries you receive to win that month's prize. Get details and download the free map.
     
  • Fairfax250 Bingo at Fairfax County Public Library
    This engaging program invites residents of all ages to commemorate America’s semiquincentennial by exploring local history, connecting with their community and celebrating the spirit of the United States one square at a time. Complete five squares in a row (across, down or diagonally) to get a prize. Ambitious participants can aim to fill the entire card to choose from a collection of seven waterproof vinyl stickers featuring iconic Fairfax County landmarks. More info.

 

More Ways to Celebrate Fairfax250

Want even more ways to celebrate the birth of our nation’s independence? Be sure to check the Fairfax250 website. Events are always being added, so check back regularly.

Visit the Fairfax250 Website
 

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