Alert:
Horse lovers of all ages are invited to Frying Pan Farm Park for the Annual Horse Expo.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to experience the beauty of dark skies and take simple steps to protect them.
This spring, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to roll up their sleeves and support native plants and habitats during hands-on volunteer events across the county.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that we have been recognized for the second year in a row as a 2026 Top Employer for Interns by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia.
Bring the whole family to Earth Day Fairfax at Lake Fairfax Park.
Spring comes alive along the Potomac River as Bluebells at the Bend returns to Riverbend Park.
The Park Authority is now accepting nominations for the annual Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Program.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to a special informational meeting about the highly anticipated renovation of Audrey Moore Rec Center.
This summer, junior golfers across Fairfax County will have a new opportunity to compete, improve and shine with the launch of the Golf Fairfax Junior Tournament Series.
The Fairfax County Park Authority was honored with a Governor’s Environmental Award in recognition of its energy upgrades at the Spring Hill Rec Center.
The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole offers a wide range employment opportunities this summer.
Lake Fairfax Park is now hiring lakefront staff for the summer season, operating from mid-June through mid-August.
Find something for everyone in the family — from egg hunts to wildflower walks — and celebrate spring with Fairfax County Park Authority.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a park activation and ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Mount Vernon Woods Park.
Get ready for the season and save during the Golf Fairfax Spring Pass Sale, March 19 to April 3.
Looking for a fun summer job where you can make a difference? The Fairfax County Park Authority is now hiring camp counselors and camp directors for camps operating from mid-June through mid-August.
Apply now to help create an unforgettable summer for local kids while gaining valuable leadership experience and earning competitive pay. Applicants must be 18 years or older.
Camp staff…
Embrace the spring season with a night out all ages will enjoy at an upcoming Family Skate and Dance Night.
We are asking for your help. Join us as an Earth Day Fairfax volunteer.
Fairfax County Park Authority plans on conducting facility maintenance, cleaning and improvements at Providence Rec Center, 7525 Marc Drive, Falls Church. To ensure customer safety during this work, the Rec Center will be closed from Monday, March 23 through Sunday, April 5.
Several building maintenance projects and improvements to improve safety and enhance customer experience will be…
Earth Day Fairfax is around the corner! Fairfax County’s largest, family-friendly Earth Day celebration will take place at Lake Fairfax Park on Saturday, April 25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is now hiring hundreds of seasonal team members to support parks, recreation centers, nature centers, historic sites, golf courses and pools across the county.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Historic Huntley, a 19th-century villa near the entrance to Huntley Meadows Park, has been named to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, a program of the National Park Service.
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is proud to announce that Patriot Park North has been recognized as the best All-Star Outdoor Venue by SportsEvents Media Group in its annual Readers’ Choice Awards.
Whether you gravitate toward the light or the dark, there’s a spot for you at the finish line of the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K.
Explore the numerous classes available for registration now in the newly released spring 2026 issue of Parktakes magazine.
In a milestone year for the Fairfax County Park Authority, the agency is celebrating its 75th Anniversary and the 20th Anniversary of the Invasive Management Area Volunteer Program.
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board held its election of officers at its meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 11.
Laurel Hill and Twin Lakes Golf Clubs have received the prestigious Weddy Award for Best Golf Club Venue.
Winter is the perfect time to reflect on your game and sharpen your skills for the upcoming season. Pinecrest Golf Course invites golfers to a one-hour, indoor clinic held in the Valis Family Learning Center on Feb. 14 or Feb. 15. Golfers will learn how to think their way around the course, make smarter decisions and manage risk to turn better choices into lower scores, all without changing…
Young children who attend Fairfax County Park Authority’s Kids Play Preschools grow, learn and play, all while building school-readiness. Learn more.
Now that registration is open for all upcoming spring and summer camps, it’s time to secure your spot in an experience sure to form lasting memories.
Spend your season at Burke Lake Park, one of Fairfax County’s most beautiful outdoor destinations!
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin evaluating applications for curatorship of the historic Dranesville Tavern.
Beginning on Monday, Feb. 16, Scott’s Run Nature Preserve will be closed for an urgent sewer project to renew and rehabilitate the Scott's Run Siphon wastewater facility.
Honor Black history through meaningful programs that explore African American history, culture and lived experiences across Fairfax County.
Fairfax County Park Authority announces an extension to the current Rec Center membership sale through Tuesday, Feb. 10.
Oakmont Golf Center range was recognized as one of America’s Top 50 Public Ranges by Golf Range Magazine. Golf Range magazine is a publication of the Golf Range Association of America and the Professional Golf Association.
Celebrate Lunar New Year with an evening of traditional music and dance, hands-on cultural activities, and Asian-inspired cuisine on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Twin Lakes Golf Course.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Observatory Park at Turner Farm has been designated an International Dark Sky Urban Night Sky Place by DarkSky International.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce Nathan Kennedy as the winner of the People’s Choice Award for the 2026 First Hike Fairfax Photo Contest. His captivating photo, taken at Huntley Meadows Park, received the highest number of online votes submitted by residents from across the county.
...Join us for Fairfax County’s largest Earth Day celebration!
Don't miss out on an enjoyable night out for the entire family — roll out to an upcoming Family Skate and Dance Night at Franconia Rec Center.
Get a 15% discount when you purchase annual membership throughout January.
Back by popular demand, split registration for 2026 spring and summer camps returns.
This year, more than 250 contestants submitted photos for the First Hike Fairfax photo contest. Here are this year's winners.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a public meeting to present design plans for a trail that will provide access to tidal wetlands from Martin Luther King Jr. Park in the Gum Springs area of Alexandria, Virginia.
Join us for an open hire event where you can apply, complete a swim test, interview and if selected as a candidate, register for the next certification class.
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board voted to approve a Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program grant totaling $10,084.47 on Dec. 10, to support improvements at the Westgrove Park off-leash dog area. The total estimated cost for this improvement project is $20,168.94.
Explore the amazing amenities that the Park Authority’s nine Rec Centers offer during the Open House event on Sunday, Jan. 4.
Families, friends and neighbors are invited to Lake Accotink Park on Saturday, Dec. 20 at noon for the beloved holiday tradition when Santa Comes to Lake Accotink Park.
The Fairfax County Park Authority offers several easy ways to stay up to date on holiday hours and weather-related closures.
Competition heats up this winter at Pinecrest Golf Course, where golfers can take on world-class courses from the comfort of the Trackman indoor studio.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the appointment of Nigel A. Fields to the position of deputy director for Planning and Development.
When the weather turns chilly, Fairfax County Park Authority provides many ways to stay active and entertained during the winter season.
The Turner Farmhouse Foundation invites the community to its annual Pancake Breakfast and Open House.
Lake Fairfax Park has been named one of RV LIFE’s “Best of the Best” Campgrounds for 2025.
Join family, friends and neighbors at the parks this holiday season.
Start 2026 on the right foot with the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation’s annual First Hike Photo Contest!
Channel your alter ego and achieve the ultimate glory by conquering the 2026 Healthy Strides Heroes vs. Villains 5K/10K.
Recognizing the importance of community participation, the Park Authority Board is seeking public input to ensure the proposed 2026 Fee Schedule reflects the priorities of Fairfax County residents.
The Beaver Boogie 5K is back! Join the Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) on Saturday, Nov. 29 for the third-annual fun run and walk at Lake Accotink Park.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a virtual public meeting to present the findings of a survey of Peake Family Cemetery on Thursday, Dec. 11 at 7:00 p.m. Details on how to view and participate the meeting are available online at the Peake Family Cemetery project website.
Following the…
Unlock the best golf deals of the year with Golf Fairfax.
The George Washington Rec Center is updating its operating hours starting Thursday, Jan. 1.
Celebrate with friends and neighbors at the free Mount Vernon Rec Center grand reopening event on Saturday, Nov. 15.
Fairfax County Public School high school teams head back to Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers in November. Swim and dive teams will be using Rec Center pools through February.
The Fairfax County Park Authority and its community partners are working to help ensure community members have access to fresh, healthy food throughout November, as the federal government shutdown continues.
Golf Fairfax is pleased to share details about the upcoming Dogue Creek Stream Restoration Project at Greendale Golf Course.
Recognizing the importance of community involvement, the Park Authority Board is actively seeking public feedback on the 2026 Fee Schedule.
Take the plunge into aquatic fitness with Fairfax County Park Authority’s Aqua Flex pass and annual event this fall.
The Fairfax County Park Authority recently built five new pickleball courts that are now open at Greenbriar Park. The park offers convenient access for nearby neighborhoods, ample parking, restroom facilities and ADA accessibility. It also has perimeter fencing, gates to allow for controlled access and shaded seating areas.
Players may notice temporary pickleball striping on the…
Fairfax County Park Authority will host a grand reopening event at Mount Vernon Rec Center.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that it has been awarded the Virginia Energy Efficiency Council award in recognition of its exceptional energy efficiency improvements at the Spring Hill Rec Center.
Observatory Park at Turner Farm is kicking off a new season of monthly astronomy programs and events designed to bring the night sky to life for registrants of all ages.
Golf Fairfax invites golfers of all ages to Laurel Hill Golf Club for a spook-tacular celebration at the Eisman Golf Academy Student Appreciation Day.
The Fairfax County Park Authority has completed major upgrades at Wakefield Park, creating the county’s largest pickleball complex.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin evaluating a Resident Curator Program application for curatorship of the historic Lahey Lost Valley house.
After public outreach and careful consideration of feedback from both the tennis and pickleball communities, the Fairfax County Park Authority will not be moving forward at this time with a proposal to establish new dedicated pickleball courts at Franconia Rec Center.
The Fairfax County Park Authority Board voted to approve a Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program grant totaling $12,928 to support enhancements at Chantilly Park Field 1.
Parks across Fairfax County abounded with lively entertainment and overjoyed audiences with the return of the Summer Entertainment Series for 2025.
For the 2026–2027 season, Jon Eisman has once again been honored as one of Virginia’s best golf instructors. He is the director of instruction and owner of the Eisman Golf Academy at Laurel Hill Golf Club and Twin Lakes Golf Course.
Grab your sweater, your pumpkin-spiced latte, and head out for a crisp morning on the fairways, where friendly competition is calling at two of Golf Fairfax’s most festive fall tournaments.
Due to unexpected heavy rain over the last few weeks, the timeline for court renovations has been delayed.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a public meeting on a proposed meadow trail at Salona Park on Monday, Oct. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the McLean Community Center at 1234 Ingleside Ave. in McLean.
Exciting changes are coming to Reston North Park Playground, located at 11760 Stevenage Road in Reston.
Construction continues on the Pohick Interceptor Rehabilitation Project in the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Pohick Stream Valley Park.
Step into a Halloween season packed with thrills, treats and traditions across Fairfax County parks.
Find some of the season’s best outings at Franconia Rec Center’s Family Skate and Dance Night.
Walk through the doors to any of Fairfax County Park Authority’s nine Rec Centers for free on Tuesday, Sept. 23.
Celebrate the fall season with family, friends and neighbors at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park’s annual ParktoberFest!
The Virginia Department of Forestry has awarded the National Capital Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (NatCap PRISM) an $80,000 grant to manage invasive plants across the region. The Fairfax County Park Authority will use the funding to conserve wildlife habitat, restore natural areas and expand public education about forest health.
Through NatCap PRISM, the grant…
The Fairfax County Park Authority will continue to accept resident curator applications for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of the tavern until Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at 5 p.m.
Step back in time and explore one of the oldest homes in Fairfax County during the annual Historic Oak Hill Open House on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Fairfax County Park Authority and EDENS are pleased to welcome the community to a celebration for the opening of Strawberry Park Playground at Mosaic District.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is hiring at two of its most popular parks.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites residents to join in the nationwide celebration of National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 27.
The Park Authority is committed to meeting the diverse recreational needs of the community and invites the public to provide input on the proposal for racquet courts.
Children form lasting memories as they learn while attending Fairfax County Park Authority preschools. FCPA runs two preschools licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services that help young children prepare for full time school:
Kids Play Preschool at:
Franconia Rec Center, 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria Stone Mansion,…Make strides toward your wellness goals this fall with an annual membership to Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers.
Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to welcome the community to the much-anticipated reopening of Mount Vernon Rec Center pool.
Bring about 100 apples and two 1-gallon containers, then take home the delicious results of your hard work.
Golf Fairfax is proud to announce, through a partnership with the Virginia State Golf Association, the launch of Adaptive Golf Clinics this fall at Burke Lake Golf Center.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will lower water levels at Lake Accotink after Labor Day in order to complete an assessment of the dam.
Looking for a way to make a difference in your neighborhood? Protect your local parks and make friends while you’re at it — become an Invasive Management Area volunteer!
The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the start of Phase 2 of renovations at Mount Vernon Woods Park.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the upcoming construction of five brand-new, dedicated pickleball courts at Greenbriar Park.
Step into the fascinating world of bugs at Bug Fest — Lake Accotink Park’s annual celebration of all things that crawl, fly and buzz!
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Michael T. Reynolds has been appointed to represent the Providence District on the Park Authority Board.
Projects at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers will result in temporary closures for pools and spas.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards.
August is National Golf Month, and Golf Fairfax is teeing up a hole-lot of ways to celebrate—on the course, at the range and even indoors. Whether you're chasing your first birdie, trying something new or sharpening your short game, this is your chance to connect and fall in love with golf all over again. With family specials, exclusive offers and more, there’s never been a better time to get…
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin facility renovations at Franconia Rec Center, located at 6601 Telegraph Road in Alexandria, aimed at enhancing air quality and comfort for patrons.
For one day only, The Water Mine’s pools, sprays, showers and water playgrounds are open just to dogs to end the season on an un-fur-gettable high.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that three exciting new sites have been added to the odyssey!
An application for curatorship has been received for the Lahey Lost Valley historic house.
Join us for live music, kids' activities and free giveaways at all Park Authority Farmers Markets!
Looking for a fun and fulfilling part-time job this fall? Spend your season at Burke Lake Park.
Step right up! Experience good old-fashioned family fun at the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair.
Nostalgic for drive-in movies? Introduce your family to the magic of the drive-in theater this summer at Starlight Cinema.
Join us on the green this August for Family Golf Month! Share your love of the sport with the budding young golfers in your life and foster a hobby that will last a lifetime.
The fall edition of Parktakes magazine has hit the stands and is bursting with classes and camps to fill your calendar.
Switch off the summer heat and get on your feet with a Christmas in July themed Family Skate and Dance Night.
This annual open house provides an opportunity to go back in time and rediscover our community roots.
On Thursday, July 10, the Fairfax County Government Center Ellipse came alive with music, gratitude, and community spirit during the Evening on the Ellipse celebration recognizing the 2025 Outstanding Volunteers and officially proclaiming July as National Park and Recreation Month in Fairfax County.
Join the movement at FCPA Farmers Markets this Plastic Free July—a global campaign to reduce plastic pollution and create cleaner, greener communities!
Each year, it’s estimated that FCPA Farmers Markets alone contribute over half a million plastic bags to the environment. Most of these bags can’t be recycled curbside and end up in landfills—or worse, polluting our parks, streams and…
July is National Ice Cream Month, and there's no cooler way to celebrate than with a visit to your favorite Fairfax County park.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites families and explorers of all ages to hit the trail and celebrate 75 years of parks and recreation with the 2025 Discovery Trail Map.
This July, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites residents and visitors to celebrate National Park and Recreation Month.
Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series presents free concerts all summer long from award-winning entertainers set at parks across the county.
Take your summer sipping to the next level at Jailbreak Johnny’s Private Stock Tasting Series.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications from prospective resident curators for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of Dranesville Tavern and Fairfax Arms.
Travel the world without leaving your own neighborhood this summer by coming out to Spotlight by Starlight.
Gather the entire family and head out to the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will begin reconstruction work on the tennis courts at Justice Park early next week.
Get ready to turn up the heat with exciting golf tournaments happening across Golf Fairfax this July!
At its meeting on May 28, the Fairfax County Park Authority Board approved a resolution honoring 20 individuals as 2025 Outstanding Volunteers.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a public meeting to present a revised proposal for a pavilion at Green Spring Gardens.
This item is currently being updated with additional information and will be reposted as soon as possible.
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority at Lake Fairfax Park on Sunday, June 29, for a full day of live entertainment, food trucks and family fun—capped off by a dazzling fireworks display.
The Fairfax County Park Authority proudly celebrated the soft reopening of the Mount Vernon Rec Center on Monday morning, June 9, with a vibrant welcome from the community and local leaders.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin construction on the next phase of improvements to the Long Branch Stream Valley Trail.
Kick off your Independence Day celebrations with fireworks, food and family fun at Lake Fairfax Park on Saturday, June 28.
Get ready to run, jog or stroll your way through summer at the Summer Sprint in the Park.
As the summer season heats up, the Fairfax County Park Authority reminds visitors to Scott’s Run Nature Preserve to enjoy the area responsibly and follow all park regulations.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the launch of the Golf Fairfax App.
Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to welcome the community back to Mount Vernon Rec Center.
In Fairfax County, the Park Authority recognizes Juneteenth by sharing stories of the African American men, women and children who shaped the region’s history through their labor, leadership, creativity and community.
Get ready to see hundreds of vintage vehicles, from turn-of-the-century rides to mid-century cruisers, all in one place.
Women golfers of all levels are invited to improve their game, make connections and be part of a growing and supportive women’s golf community.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will be making improvements to tennis courts #2 and #5 at Jefferson District Park.
With 334 miles of trails to explore, there's no better time to hit the trail than National Trails Day, coming up on Saturday, June 7.
The new directors' first term of service extends through June 20, 2028.
Celebrate five decades of classic cars and family fun at the 50th Annual Father’s Day Antique Car Show.
Ready to stay local and play big? Fairfax County Park Authority invites you to plan your ultimate 2025 summer staycation with exciting adventures starting Saturday, May 24.
This special day of recognition is a small way to say thank you for the service and sacrifice of those who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Free performances that the entire family will enjoy return to locations across Fairfax County coming June through August.
Spend your summer at the lake! Lake Accotink Park in Springfield, Virginia, is hosting drop-in interviews every Tuesday through June 10, 2025.
Fairfax County Park Authority celebrates water safety all year long with numerous opportunities to swim and enjoy water at Rec Center pools, lakes, riverfront parks and waterparks.
There’s still time to make your voice heard! The Parks Count! 2026 Parks Needs Assessment Survey closes on June 15, 2025, and we need your input.
The Fairfax County Park Authority welcomed thousands of visitors to Mason District Park on Saturday, May 10, for the 2025 Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Festival.
In recognition of Historic Preservation Month, the Fairfax County Park Authority is hosting several events at historic properties across the county.
Step into history, sip something spirited and enjoy a literary classic under the stars at Colvin Run Mill this May.
The U.S. Department of Energy has honored Fairfax County with a Better Project Award and a Better Practice Award.
Despite a steady drizzle that seemed perfectly suited for the occasion, more than 450 visitors flocked to Huntley Meadows Park on Sunday, May 4.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites community members to participate in a public comment period regarding a proposal to construct three dedicated pickleball courts at Greenbriar Park.
The funding will support the Early Detection Rapid Response (EDRR) program, an initiative designed to identify and control new populations of invasive plant species before they become established and cause ecological harm.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites plant lovers of all kinds to celebrate the arrival of spring at the annual Spring Garden Day and Big Plant Sale on Saturday, May 17.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the 2025 AAPI Heritage Festival.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that Rosario Bombaugh has been named a recipient of the 2025 Sharon Bulova Award for Exemplary Administrative Professionals.
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority and Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik for a morning of free outdoor fun on Saturday, May 17.
Find your path to health and wellness at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers.
Huntley Meadows Park is turning 50 years old. And Historic Huntley is celebrating 200 years. Celebrate these milestones with the Fairfax County Park Authority.
With an award-winning system of 420 parks, the Fairfax County Park Authority relies on thousands of volunteers to support its programs and initiatives.
The wait is over—Fairfax County Farmers Markets are back open for business!
This International Dark Sky Week, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites you to reconnect with the wonder of the night.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce a lively and enriching celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at Mason District Park.
The Park Authority is now accepting nominations for the annual Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Program.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Jose Peralta has been appointed by Sully District Supervisor Kathy Smith to represent her district on the Park Authority Board.
Get your ticket for staying cool this summer by hitting the gold rush sale — purchase discounted season passes for The Water Mine.
With a commitment to high-quality early childhood education, Fairfax County Park Authority preschools are where learning begins and growing never stops.
Plan the perfect celebration of Mother Earth at the Park Authority’s 2025 Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sully Historic Site.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is hosting an open hire for camp positions at Huntley Meadows Park.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is exploring plans to resurface and expand the existing basketball court at Dunn Loring Park.
Burke Lake Golf Course is going green in a big way this Earth Month with the activation of a new 55-kilowatt rooftop solar array.
Hit the greens and test your skills in Golf Fairfax’s exciting lineup of spring tournaments! Partner up for fun competition this season. Golfers of all ages and abilities are invited to showcase their skills. Registration opens 45 days before the event.
Going for the GreenPark Authority Recognized as a Top Employer for Interns in Virginia
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is proud to announce that we have been recognized as a 2025 Top Employer for Interns by the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (VA-TOP). This recognition highlights FCPA’s dedication to providing meaningful work-based learning experiences that empower the next…
On the morning of Saturday, March 29, community members, local officials and park supporters gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of McLean Central Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony.
The dog parks at Chandon Park and Blake Lane Park will soon undergo renovations to enhance the visitor experience. The planned improvements will include converting the park surfaces to stone dust, with necessary dirt work and grading to ensure long-term durability.
Construction at Blake Lane Park is scheduled to begin on May 5, 2025, with an anticipated completion date of June 4,…
Celebrate all things spring with Fairfax County Park Authority. From new blooms to egg hunts, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy in the parks this season.
Celebrate all things spring with Fairfax County Park Authority. From new blooms to egg hunts, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy in the parks this…
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is excited to launch the Parks Count! 2026 Parks Needs Assessment online survey to evaluate park and recreation needs across the county. Community input is essential to shaping the future of Fairfax County’s parks, and we want to…
The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce that we are hiring passionate, skilled instructors to lead a variety of programs in the newly renovated Mount Vernon Rec Center. We’re excited to welcome the community back to an upgraded facility featuring two National Hockey League sized ice rinks, two-story fitness center, indoor track, rock climbing wall, drop-in childcare, pool…
In addition to all the fun and excitement, Earth Day Fairfax is all about teaching new skills and simple tricks you can do at home that have a huge impact on the world outside. Join us at Sully Historic Site on Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. for the county’s largest Earth Day celebration.
Since 1970, Earth Day has been an annual celebration that raises awareness of the…
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the official ribbon-cutting to commemorate the reopening of McLean Central Park.
Fairfax County Park Authority’s Healthy Strides program helps improve health equity and empowers residents to make informed decisions about their wellbeing.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is undertaking significant revitalization projects at Oakmont and Franconia Rec Centers.
Spring is here, bringing warmer days and big savings on golf rounds!
The Fairfax County Park Authority is undertaking significant revitalization projects at Oakmont and Franconia Rec Centers.
On March 1, athletes gathered at Oakmont Rec Center to put their skills to the test.
As summer approaches, prepare for the season with water safety in mind. Fairfax County Park Authority hosts many classes and educational opportunities that prepare people of all ages to be safe in and around the water.
Earth Day Fairfax is the County’s largest Earth Day celebration, and we are seeking volunteer support to make this annual event a success!
On March 7, 2025, the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Greater Oakton Community Association officially finalized a Memorandum of Agreement to support the historic Oakton Schoolhouse.
The Park Authority is now accepting nominations for the annual Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Program, recognizing the outstanding contributions of volunteers.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin revitalization work at Hybla Valley Park.
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to a public meeting to discuss the Olander and Margaret Banks Neighborhood Park.
Mark your calendar for Fairfax County’s largest, family-friendly Earth Day extravaganza at the Sully Historic Site on Saturday, April 26.
The Fairfax County Park Authority is launching the Parks Count! 2026 Parks Needs Assessment.
Beginning March 17, the Cross County Trail in Pohick Stream Valley Park between Cliff Forest Drive and Wadebrook Terrace will be temporarily closed. Here's why.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin renovating the tennis and pickleball court areas at Wakefield Park.
Spring into action with Fairfax County Park Authority classes.
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin work to preserve the Peake Family Cemetery located in the Mount Vernon District.
There is no better way to celebrate Wetlands Awareness Day than by visiting the Fairfax County Park Authority’s premier wetland sanctuary at Huntley Meadows Park on Sunday, May 5, from 12-4 p.m. Come explore the wonders of the park including a nationally significant historic house, majestic forests, wildflower-speckled meadows and a vast…
Despite a few early raindrops, the sun broke through the clouds as the Fairfax County Park Authority, Board of Supervisors and hundreds of local little leaguers and their families celebrated the historic opening of the county’s new state-of-the-art baseball/softball sportsplex at Patriot Park North on Saturday, April 15.
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is seeking teenagers looking to develop their leadership and communication skills to become Counselors in Training (C.I.T.).
Explore a thriving wetland sanctuary during Wetlands Awareness Day!
It’s National Poetry Month and Arab American Heritage Month. Celebrate both at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park with the first in a series of Poetry in the Parks events.
Name: Marcos Suarez
Position: Area 4 Manager, Park Operations Division, Fairfax County Park Authority
I was born and raised in Venezuela and moved to the United States (Burke, Virginia) at the age of 16. While I was in school, I played baseball and basketball at the varsity level. In school, extracurricular activities helped me a lot to learn a new…
Name: Gina Sando
Position: Visitor Services Manager,Resource Management Division, Fairfax County Park Authority.
I was born in New Jersey to a Deaf family. My parents are Deaf along with my sister and an uncle, indicating that it may be a recessive trait. I grew up fully immersed in American Sign Language (ASL). I attended preschool and part…
Name: Charlie Allen (They/Them/Theirs)
Position: Intern, Access and Inclusion Branch, Park Services Division, Fairfax County Park Authority.
I was a sick child who had a lot of fevers, stomach problems, and always getting injured due to my clumsiness. However, it wasn’t until about age 11, when I received my first major diagnosis, that I started my…
Fishing is a sport that everyone can participate in and brings many people pleasure. Fish is also one of the healthiest dinners people may choose to eat. Our fisheries are not a finite resource, so we must learn to protect them to ensure that future generations may enjoy the sport. Here are a couple of tips to follow that will help each angler be a steward of the angling…
ByJordan Jenkins.
As the cooler weather comes along, some people may think fishing in Fairfax County is over, but the bite is just getting started! Fall is one of the best times of the year to get out on the water and catch some fish. In the fall, it is common for fish to begin stocking up and feeding more so they can get nice and big before the winter. Before getting out on the water…
Fairfax County lakes offer a variety of species from bass to bluegill. These fish have preferences, so you may need to choose specific baits to entice the fish you are trying to catch. Using basic tackle and techniques, here are a few tips and tricks on targeting specific fish.
The thirst for history from a more personal vantage point was on full display July 31, 2021, when a large crowd, including family members from several states, park neighbors, members of the Park Authority Board and staff, local officials, and History Commission members, gathered at Freedom Hill Park in Vienna for the inaugural Untold Stories program.
By Dan Grulke
In its simplest form, fishing is casting a line with a lure or bait into the water in hopes of catching a fish. If that were all that was involved in this sport or hobby, few would continue to participate in it. So the real question is, “Why do people go fishing?”
There are many reasons why people fish, but most say fishing helps them become better people.…
Fall is here and cool, crisp weather has started to emerge as the leaves change their hues. This means it is time to get a pole in the water, and perhaps find yourself a trophy.
The period between late summer and early fall is a great time to do some bass fishing if you have the right knowledge. This article will focus on the keys to successful, local fall bass fishing.
The…
There are many ways to enjoy a successful fishing trip with children. The main principle is to make it fun, end the fishing trip while they are still having fun and help them achieve a positive and attainable experience. Below are some of the techniques I use with kids in our fishing classes.
The cold fall weather is finally starting to move in, and you know what that means. The Striped Bass are here. Striped Bass, or Stripers as most people call them, are a migratory fish that move up and down the East Coast of the United States. During the fall, massive schools of these fish travel up the Potomac River and into the creeks.
Proper maintenance off all your fishing equipment -- including rods, reels, tackle, accessories, etc.-- is important in order to extend its life and get the most use for your hard-earned dollar.
Although the numbers of fish caught per outing decrease during the colder months of the year, the cool temperatures provide the angler with a better chance at a trophy fish (for some species).
How do I know what type of fishing equipment to purchase? Do I need an expensive fishing rod? What is the best fishing reel to get? The purpose of this article will be to answer some of these questions to simplify things for your fishing needs.
Trout is the common name for fish belonging to the genera Oncorhynchus, Salmo, Salvelinus, as well as the subfamily Salmoninae of the family Salmonidae. The most popular species that you can find in Virginia are the rainbow trout, brown trout or the brook trout.
Dust off your tackle box and take the tags off that brand-new fishing pole you got during the holidays because warmer weather is on the horizon and with it comes the early spring fishing season!
The Fairfax County Park Authority has become certified as a Virginia Values Veterans (V3) certified employer. This designation serves as a welcome sign for veterans seeking employment with the agency.
Help tidy up your local parks and clear the earth’s arteries by volunteering for some spring cleaning in April. It’s a great way for individuals, families and groups to earn service hours, work on team building or simply give back to the local community.
The Fairfax County Park Authority’s annual Watershed Clean-up Days are scheduled in conjunction with the Nature Conservancy at…
On Saturday, February 8, 2020, students from the Oakton High School Environmental Club spent two hours removing invasive shrubs from Difficult Run Stream Valley Park in Oakton, VA. The students removed 15 bags of Japanese…
The Laurel Hill Park Volunteer Team (PVT) has been honored by the Virginia House of Delegates for its service work on behalf of parks. Delegate Kathy Tran proposed a resolution to honor the group for receiving the Park Authority’s Elly Doyle Service Award in 2019, and she presented it to…
More than 30 volunteers bundled up and braved the cold to help Lake Accotink Park on this year’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.
Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) sponsored the volunteer clean-up on Monday, January 20, 2020, at the park’s marina. FLAP board members Jim Hickey and…
On Monday, January 20, 2020, Braddock Supervisor James Walkinshaw, along with the Royal Lake Park Volunteer Team (aka Friends of Royal Lake) engaging more than 60 volunteers, honored Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy…
On January 12, 2020, more than 500 people gathered at Burke Lake Park in Springfield, VA, to witness the release of a rehabilitated bald eagle. The bird was recovered by the Fairfax County Police Department on December 12, 2019, after a community member saw the bird on a trail near Burke Lake, unable to…
On January 1-3, 2021, the Fairfax County Park Authority joined America’s state parks including Virginia State Parks to encourage everyone to start 2021 with a hike. In Fairfax County, it’s a great way to appreciate more than 450 miles of trails and to set the bar for a new year of fitness and outdoor activity. This year’s contests included special prize amounts of $70 to commemorate the Park…
Lee District community leaders recently honored Transurban, operators of the 495 and 95 express lanes, for significant enrichment of Fairfax County parks through contributions to the Fairfax County Park Foundation (FCPF).
Officials thanked Transurban for its support at a…
Members of the community, local elected officials, and representatives from the Park Authority gathered in celebration this past Saturday at Azalea Park in Falls Church. This small, neighborhood park has been fully redesigned and, with the collaboration and cooperation of neighbors, has become a wonderful…
Thirteen employees from Environmental Quality Resources (EQR), LLC turned out on Friday, April 19, 2019, to provide volunteer cleanup services at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park on Fordson Road in Alexandria, Virginia and Wickford Park on Wickford Drive, also in Alexandria. In cooperation with the Fairfax…
Diane Willen’s sunrise photo of Burke Lake Park was named the People’s Choice Winner in the 2019 First Hike…
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) and the Friends of Green Spring (FROGS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Friday, January 4, 2019, at ...
Parks and recreation icon William “Bill” Beckner, who passed away earlier this summer, was remembered fondly and honored on Saturday, November 17, 2018 with a park bench dedicated in his memory at Huntley Meadows Park. Beckner joined the Park Authority in 1977 as the agency’s chief naturalist. Eight years…
Members of the community and local officials gathered this past Saturday to celebrate the Fairfax County Park Authority’s official opening and ribbon cutting at Backlick Park located at 4516 Backlick Road in Annandale, VA. Renovations at the park included installation of a new shelter and picnic tables,…
On Thursday, November 1, 2018, Fairfax County’s second Resident Curator was officially approved and appropriate leases signed at Turner Farm Park. Members of the Great Falls community turned out for the lease signing ceremony. Sarah Kirk will serve as the Resident Curator of historic Turner Farmhouse in…
It’s now official; the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Friends of Pimmit Barn are working together to preserve this community landmark and allow neighbors to enjoy activities at the site. On October 9, 2018, representatives from the Friends group and Park Authority leadership came together to sign a…
Park lovers from infants to octogenarians participated in this year’s Fairfax County Park Authority Discovery Trail Map summer activity, and four lucky visitors whose names were selected in a trail-ending drawing will soon receive a new bicycle and safety helmet donated by Spokes, Etc. and Trek through…
On Saturday, September 29, 2018, the Fairfax County Park Authority celebrated the opening of the Griffith Park playground in Falls Church, Virginia.
Funded via voter-approved 2016 park bonds, the $80,000 project replaced outdated equipment with new play elements, interactive panels and swings…
On Saturday, September 29, 2018, Hidden Oaks Nature Center marked the 10th anniversary of Nature Playce and the park’s limited impact development (LID) parking lot with a free, three-hour celebration. Nature Playce is a one-third acre, unstructured, woodland play area near the…
On Saturday, September 15, 2018, the Fairfax County Park Authority cut the ribbon on the newly renovated Valis Family Golf Learning Center at Pinecrest Golf Course in Annandale, Va. The expanded facility was named in recognition of Wayne and Angela Valis’ generous donation of a new TrackMan 4 Golf Simulator. The…
On Saturday, September 8, 2018, the Fairfax County Park Foundation and the Fairfax County Park Authority celebrated the Joey Pizzano Memorial Fund’s (JPMF) 20th Anniversary with a Family Fun Day Celebration at Our Special Harbor in…
On Saturday, September 8, 2018, the Fairfax County Park Authority cut the ribbon on a newly renovated synthetic turf field at Nottoway Park in Vienna, Va. Local officials and field users gathered to celebrate the completion of Field #4.
This field was closed this past spring to allow for the…
Oak Marr RECenter is joining with the First Baptist Church of Vienna (FBCV) to encourage people to change their lifestyle to prevent or delay type 2 diabetes and other serious health problems. The initiative to improve overall health is part of the Southeast Diabetes Faith Initiative (SDFI) Program, a…
The Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, the Fairfax County Park Authority Board, the Fairfax County Park Foundation (FCPF) and members of the McLean community gathered on July 28, 2018 for the “inaugural” ride on a new trackless train at Clemyjontri Park, as well as a ribbon cutting for a new picnic…
At the June 27, 2018 joint board meeting between the Fairfax County Park Authority Board and the Fairfax County Park Foundation Board of Directors, representatives of the Park Foundation presented a check in the amount of $811,803.04 to Park…
The Friends of Green Spring Gardens, better known as FROGS, were honored for 25 years of service to the Fairfax County Park Authority site with a resolution from the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors. At an evening concert and celebration at…
On Saturday, June 23, 2018, park leaders, staff, volunteers and community members gathered at Hidden Pond Nature Center to celebrate the new playground and picnic shelter. The new nature-themed playground features several structures to accommodate play for ages 2 to 12, including swings for all ages. A…
A ribbon-cutting ceremony for Chessie’s Trail at Lee District Family Recreation Area was held on June 16, 2018, as officials, project team members and local children celebrated the completion of the project. Chessie’s Trail was the last component of a robust capital improvement program at the site that…
On Tuesday, May 22, 2018, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Washington Field Office held a Children's Citizenship ceremony at Sully Historic Site in Chantilly, VA. More than two dozen children recited the oath of citizenship and received certificates at the event, now in its 10th year…
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Sunday, May 6, 2018 for the new playground at Bucknell Manor Park in Alexandria, Va.
Bucknell Manor Park now features two play areas to appeal to children of different ages. In addition to the play structures, the facility includes new borders, subsurface…
On Saturday, April 28, 2018, the Fairfax County Park Authority and TrailsforYouth.Org opened a new bicycle pump track at Brookfield Park in Springfield, Virginia. The track is designed to allow riders of a wide range of abilities to maneuver…
On Saturday, April 14, 2018, the Fairfax County Park Authority renamed South Run District Park Athletic Field #5 in honor of Jack Nolan, a longtime coach, leader and advocate of youth soccer in the Springfield District. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Mr. Nolan served as a coach for several…
On, Saturday, October 28, 2017, Virginia First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe was on hand at the Reston Farmers Market as Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (Anthem) President Patrick Sturdivant presented a $15,000 check to the Wholesome Wave “VA Fresh Match Program.” Anthem staff also volunteered…
On, Saturday, October 21, 2017, Historic Oak Hill in Annandale opened its doors to the public for its annual Open House. Members of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and the Fairfax County Park Authority welcomed new owners Joe and Laura Braceland to the neighborhood presenting them…
On, Saturday, October 14, 2017, current and former Fairfax County leaders joined family and friends to rename a Tysons park in honor of former Fairfax County Planning Commissioner Ken Lawrence, who passed away in December 2016.
Jones Branch Fields and Arbor Row Stream Valley Park…
On, Friday, Oct. 6, 2017, leaders from the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Department of Public Works and Environmental Services joined contractors and residents for a tour of the recently completed stream restoration project in Lake Fairfax Park. The project team…
On Saturday, September 30, 2017, more than 25 volunteers participated in a work day at Olander and Margaret Banks Neighborhood Park in Alexandria, Virginia as part of National Public Lands Day (NPLD). Local residents, members of the Banks Family, Park Authority staff members, Dr. Cynthia…
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the new playground at South Run District Park on Saturday, September 16, 2017 to mark completion of the new playground in Springfield, VA.
The park’s old playground was demolished to make way for a new play area that features a playground, tot…
