Park Authority

Don’t let the chilly weather keep you out of the pool! The Aqua Flex pass allows you entry to any aquatics fitness class as a drop-in visitor, space permitting. Choose from among more than 150 aquatics fitness classes offered every week at Rec Centers across the county.

Use the pass to join any water exercise class listed either in the drop-in water exercise class schedule or in any water exercise class listed in Partakes. Classes accommodate all fitness levels -- from low to moderate to high intensity.

Take the plunge this November during the Aqua Flex discount event! During the whole month, 30-visit Aqua Flex passes are available at 15% off, and 20-visit passes are available for 10% off. Friends are welcome, too! Pass holders can bring a guest to class and have an additional visited deducted from their remaining tally. All passes expire four months from the date of purchase.

Don’t miss the chance to get fit — at a discount — in the Park Authority’s pools this November.

View the Aqua Flex Sale flyer

Get a glimpse of what awaits at Aqua Flex ’23!

If you are wondering whether the Aqua Flex pass is right for you, don’t miss out on Aqua Flex’23! This free event will be hosted on Saturday, Nov. 4, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Oak Marr (3200 Jermantown Road, Oakton), Audrey Moore (8100 Braddock Road, Annandale) and Franconia (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria) Rec Centers.

Come and sample the different styles and intensities of water fitness opportunities offered by the Park Authority. Learn more and sign up for Aqua Flex at Rec Center Aquatics and Swimming webpage. Spaces are filling up fast.

Experience autumn like never before with the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Thanksgiving programs. Our specially curated events are designed to make your holiday memorable and unique. Enjoy turkey trot hikes in the parks, savor harvest-inspired treats, participate in the Turkey Cup golf tournament, craft seasonal decorations and many more family-friendly outings and activities, while celebrating this season of gratitude at Fairfax County parks.

You can register for Thanksgiving-themed activities by visiting Parktakes. Some events include:

Turkey Cup Golf Tournament. Win a Thanksgiving Dinner and Dessert!

Thursday, Nov. 16, 9:30 a.m., at Greendale Golf Course

Tee off at Greendale Golf Course for our 11th Annual Turkey Cup Tournament. Golfers 18 and older compete for a Thanksgiving dinner and dessert in a two-player captain’s choice tournament. Prizes for first and second place per division, and closest to the pin. Registration fee is $130 per team and includes lunch, greens fee, power cart and prizes. Registration closes Thursday, Nov. 9. Make your Thanksgiving UnFOREgettable!

Greendale Golf Course is located at 6700 Telegraph Road, Alexandria. For more information, visit the Greendale Golf Course website or call 703-971-6170.

Find registration information for Turkey Cup

Floral Finesse! Create Your Thanksgiving Masterpiece

Thursday, Nov. 16, 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens

Dive into the world of holiday colors and textures at Green Spring Gardens. Learn the art of crafting a unique Thanksgiving floral arrangement under the guidance of professional designer Betty Ann Galway. You'll leave with tips and tricks to impress at your own holiday gatherings. Plus, join us virtually via Zoom.

Green Spring Gardens is located at 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria. For more information, visit Green Spring Gardens or call 703-642-5173.

Register for Floral Design Workshop-Holiday Table Arrangement

Thanksgiving Family Skate and Dance Night

Saturday, Nov. 18, 6 to 9 p.m. at Franconia Rec Center

Lace up your roller skates or dancing shoes for a Thanksgiving-themed night out. Bring your family and friends out for an early start celebrating the holiday. Enjoy music by a live DJ, refreshments and fun decorations. Don’t have roller skates? No problem — come out to groove to the music. Cost is $10 in advance or for $15 the day of the event.

Franconia Rec Center is located at 6601 Telegraph Road, Franconia. For more information, visit the Franconia Rec Center website or call 703-922-9841.

Register for Family Skate Night

Dutch Oven Brunch and Savor History with Corn Pancakes

Monday, Nov. 20, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Historic Huntley

Join us around the campfire at Historic Huntley for a scrumptious Dutch Oven Brunch. Enjoy corn pancakes and fresh butter as we delve into the history of Thanksgiving foodways. Who knew Thanksgiving might not have been celebrated by the Masons? A flavorful journey awaits!

Historic Huntley is located at 6918 Harrison Lane, Alexandria. For more information, visit the Historic Huntley website or call 703-768-2525.

Register for Dutch Oven Brunch

Turkey Trot, A Wild Adventure in the Forest

Saturday, Nov. 25, 10 to 11 a.m. at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

Get your gobble on! Bring your family to Ellanor C. Lawrence Park for an exciting turkey-themed adventure. Explore the cedar forest, seek out wild turkeys and decode their intriguing signs. It's an event that'll leave you saying, "Turkeylicious!"

Register for Turkey Walk

Make Room for Turkeys!

Saturday, Nov. 25, 2 to 3 p.m. at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

Have you ever wondered about turkeys' role in cultures throughout the Americas? Join us at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park to uncover the secrets of these fascinating birds. Learn how habitat restoration can ensure their future, and let's celebrate together!

Register for Make Room for Turkeys

Ellanor C. Lawrence Park is located at 5040 Walney Road, Chantilly. For more information, visit the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park website or call 703-631-0013.

Golf Fairfax is proud to offer special Military Mondays discount pricing to express our heartfelt gratitude to the brave men and women who have served and continue to service in the U.S. military.

All active-duty and veteran military personnel are invited to enjoy a discounted round of golf on Mondays at all seven Fairfax County Park Authority golf courses. This is an opportunity for military personnel to access some of the best golf courses that Fairfax County has to offer. To obtain the discount, eligible personnel must present a valid military identification. Discount pricing is available through March 2024.

“We are deeply appreciative of the sacrifices made by our military personnel, Golf Fairfax is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and welcoming community, and Military Mondays are one of the ways we aim to achieve this,” said Ryan Carmen, division director for Golf Fairfax.

To learn more about Military Mondays and access additional information about the Fairfax County Park Authority Golf Courses, please visit the Golf website.

View the flyer to see current pricing for Military Mondays

In celebration of Veterans Day, the Fairfax County Park Authority is extending its gratitude to our U.S. Armed Forces personnel. On Saturday, Nov. 11, veterans, active-duty military and their families can enjoy complimentary access to various activities, including Rec Center admission, carousel rides at Clemyjontri Park, camping at Lake Fairfax Park and wagon rides at Frying Pan Farm Park.

Rec Center admission includes entry to pools, fitness rooms, gyms/courts, and drop-in fitness classes at all county Rec Centers.

The Honoring America’s Veterans program is made possible through generous contributions to the Fairfax County Park Foundation from individual donors. It is also supported by donations to the Fairfax County Park Foundation that honor the life of Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith, a civilian employee of the Army who, at the time of his death, was attending a meeting at the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed on Sept. 11, 2001.

For more information, please contact participating locations directly. 

The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3), supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants, and creating partnerships that supplement tax dollars to meet our community’s needs for park land, facilities, and services. Visit the Park Foundation website or call 703-324-8582.

The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin resurfacing and painting work at the Eakin Community Park parking lot located at 3401 Prosperity Ave. in Fairfax, Virginia. Work is expected to begin on Nov. 6, and is expected to conclude by the end of November 2023, weather permitting.

The parking lot will be closed for the duration of the project. Alternate parking is available at the secondary park entrance at 8515 Tobin Road in Annandale, Virginia. While the Prosperity Avenue parking lot is closed, visitors may find alternate recreation options by using the Park Amenity Locator.

The project will include the complete removal and replacement of the existing parking lot surface. Additional work includes repair of sections of adjacent trails. Residents in the surrounding area can expect occasional construction traffic entering and exiting along Prosperity Avenue throughout the project.

Eakin Community Park is located at 8515 Tobin Road in Annandale. The park includes a playground, basketball and tennis courts, athletic fields, picnic shelter, community gardens and trails. For more information, please visit the Eakin Community Park website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has scheduled a virtual public meeting to receive public comment on proposed park fee adjustments for 2024. The meeting has been set for Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. The public will be able to participate in the meeting at Fairfax County Park Authority 2024 Proposed Fee Schedule webpage. A call-in option is also available by dialing 855-925-2801 and entering the meeting code 3389.

Every year, the Fairfax County Park Authority receives approximately 35% of the funding required to support its operation through the Fairfax County General Fund. The remaining 65% of the operating budget is funded from the Park Authority Revenue and Operating Fund, a fund required to operate with a minimum of 100% cost recovery. The operating budget of the Revenue and Operating Fund is derived from various fees for programs, classes, services and amenities.

The virtual meeting will include a brief overview of the fee process, followed by an opportunity for the public to provide comments to the Board. Those who wish to speak may sign up in advance by contacting the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or by calling 703-324-8700; however, preregistration is not required. Individual remarks are limited to three minutes. Organizations represented by a single speaker may have up to five minutes to provide remarks.

The public may also submit comments to the Park Authority Board for their consideration online or via U.S. Mail. Comments will be accepted beginning Monday, Oct. 30, through Wednesday, Nov. 29.

All comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29 to be included in the Park Authority Board’s deliberations.

Details on the proposed fee adjustments as well as submission instructions are available at the Fairfax County Park Authority 2024 Proposed Fee Schedule webpage.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has approved the award of $20,000 in grant funding to help fund the renovation of a playground at McLean Central Park located within the Dranesville District. Funds were awarded through the Park Authority’s Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program. The applicant, The McLean Central Playground Team, is contributing $246,670 in raised community contributions to the project.

The McLean Central Park’s school-aged playground was installed in 1998 and is due for replacement. Currently, the school-aged playground and tot lot are located in separate areas of the park. The McLean Central Playground Team has been partnering with the Park Authority on plans to combine the two playgrounds into one centrally located area within the park. The new playground equipment will feature elements that support sensory play, adaptive tandem swings and other design features that promote connections and accessibility for all ages and abilities.

The total cost for the project is estimated at $442,609. In addition to the contributions from the McLean Central Playground Team and the $20,000 in grant funding, the Park Authority will be providing the remaining $175,939, which was originally allocated for the renovation of the school-aged playground alone. Work is projected to be completed by winter of 2024 to 2025.

The Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program encourages public-private ventures that improve Fairfax County parks and park facilities. It is designed to fill a gap between limited bond funding and the community’s desire for new or improved park facilities by assisting volunteer, community and user groups in improving park facilities by matching funds and in-kind services.

Since 1999, the program has awarded approximately $2.1 million in grants for projects valued at more than $16.3 million. Grants ranging from a few hundred dollars to the maximum of $20,000 have funded such projects as trail improvements, construction of gazebos and shelters and athletic field improvements.

For more information or to apply for a matching grant, visit the Mastenbrook Grants website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board received staff's proposed 2024 Fee Schedule at its Oct. 25 meeting. The presentation was the first step in the board’s consideration process, which includes a 30-day community engagement period with opportunities for the public to submit feedback and comments online, as well as participate in a virtual public meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m.

The virtual public meeting will include a brief overview of the fee process followed by an opportunity for the public to provide comments to the Board. Those who wish to speak may sign up in advance by contacting the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or by calling 703-324-8700. Individual remarks are limited to three minutes. Organizations represented by a single speaker may have up to five minutes to provide remarks.

The public may also submit comments to the Park Authority Board for their consideration online or via U.S. Mail. Comments will be accepted beginning Monday, Oct. 30, through Wednesday, Nov. 29. Comments may be submitted at the Engage Fairfax County website, or they can be mailed to:

Park Authority Public Information Office

ATTN: 2024 Fee Schedule Comments

12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 925

Fairfax, VA 22035

All comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29, to be included in the Park Authority Board’s deliberations.

Every year, the Fairfax County Park Authority receives approximately 35% of the funding required to support its operation through the Fairfax County General Fund. The remaining 65% of the operating budget is funded from the Park Authority Revenue and Operating Fund, a fund required to operate with a minimum of 100% cost recovery. The operating budget of the Revenue and Operating Fund is derived from various fees for programs, classes, services and amenities.

For more information about the Park Authority’s proposed 2024 Fee Schedule, the upcoming public meeting and instructions for submitting comments, visit the Engage Fairfax County website.

To learn more the fee schedule, visit the Fairfax County Park Authority Fee Schedule website. 

Dive into the past and experience the thrilling days of the War of 1812 as it comes to life at Colvin Run Mill Historic Site on Sunday, Nov. 5, from noon to 3 p.m. This is not just history; it's history with a twist – engaging, interactive and family-friendly.

At Colvin Run, the War of 1812 is not just about battles and generals; it's about everyday people who played a pivotal role in assisting the U.S. Navy. The homefront was their battlefield. Discover unsung heroes who made extraordinary contributions during these challenging times, including the remarkable efforts of women who stitched uniforms with care, while farmers, millers, and bakers ensured a steady supply of food for the Navy.

Meet the crew of Ship’s Company, a War of 1812 reenactors’ group, and get an up-close-and-personal view of what it was like to be a sailor during that era. Don’t miss sampling naval pudding, a delicious treat cherished by sailors during the war.

Also enjoy the opportunity to explore a fully operational mill and witness how grain was ground into flour. Step inside the miller's house and uncover the secrets of the past. Don't forget to shop in our general store and buy fresh-milled flour and cornmeal from the historic mill!

Mark your calendars as we transport you to a time when bravery, resourcefulness and community spirit ruled the day. Registration is $10 per person.

Register for War of 1812 and the Homefront

View the event flyer

Colvin Run Mill is located at 10017 Colvin Run Road in Great Falls. For more information, visit Colvin Run Mill or call 703-759-2771.

Scary good times are just around the corner so grab your costume and join these frightfully delightful festivities! Make your Halloween memorable with the Fairfax County Park Authority!

Halloween on the Farm (Friday, Oct. 27 and Saturday, Oct. 28)

Multiple one-hour time slots are available between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park’s Halloween on the Farm. Enjoy trick or treating, friendly farm animals, festive crafts, games and activities and explore the Halloween-themed farmhouse! Registration is $10 per person.

Frying Pan Farm Park is located at 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon. For more information, visit the Frying Pan Farm Park website or call 703-437-9101.

Register for Halloween on the Farm

Fear-less Fest (Saturday, Oct. 28)

Visit the Hidden Oaks Nature Center for a wildlife Halloween experience! Encounter costumed woodland creatures including spiders, raccoons, deer and owls, and discover why they’re not as scary as they may seem. Come in costume and join a guided trail walk and enjoy festive fall activities. This is a great event for scout groups and families. Multiple time slots are available between 5:30 and 8 p.m. Registration is $8 per person.

Hidden Oaks Nature Center is located at 7701 Royce St., Annandale. For more information, visit the Hidden Oaks Nature Center website or call 703-941-1065.

Register for Fear-less Fest

Ghost Town (Saturday, Oct. 28 and Sunday, Oct. 29)

It’s time to gather the family, grab your best costumes and head on over to Burke Lake Park! Join us for this NEW family tradition. The Ghost Town event will include themed-activity areas, train ride, carousel ride, crafts, a bounce house, mini golf and more. Admission is $15 per person and includes all Ghost Town activities and services. Children under 2 ride free but must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Tickets may be purchased up until two days before the event. During the event, tickets may be purchased at the Ice Cream Parlor.

Burke Lake Park is located at 7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. For more information, visit the Burke Lake Park website or call 703-323-6600.

Register for Ghost Town