Park Authority

Huntley Meadows Park is turning 50 years old. The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to celebrate five decades of wetland conservation, wildlife habitat and outdoor discovery at one of Fairfax County’s most beloved parks. This milestone also marks the 200th anniversary of nearby Historic Huntley, adding even more reasons to celebrate this spring.

50th Anniversary Celebration and Wetlands Awareness Day

Sunday, May 4, 2025, noon to 4 p.m. at Huntley Meadows Park

Step into nature and celebrate the magic of wetlands.

• Noon: Activities begin with live animal encounters, hands-on exhibits and wetland exploration.
• 1 p.m.: Join the festive anniversary celebration, featuring cake, commemorative activities and family-friendly fun.
• Admission is free, and shuttle service will be available from nearby parking areas for visitor convenience.

Join the celebration May 4. Find event and shuttle details at the celebration’s webpage.

More Ways to Celebrate Huntley’s Legacy

In addition to the main event, there are more ways to honor Huntley Meadows Park’s 50th anniversary and Historic Huntley’s 200th anniversary:

• Special exhibit: "Huntley Meadows at Fifty" — A photographic retrospective of the park’s transformation, on display at the Norma Hoffman Visitor Center from March 8 to June 1.
• Family Hilltop Outing: Celebrate 200 years of Historic Huntley with a special guided tour and family activities on Saturday, May 17, at 4:30 p.m.
• Anniversary merchandise: Limited-edition commemorative items available at the Huntley Meadows gift shop.

About Huntley Meadows Park and Historic Huntley

Huntley Meadows Park, Fairfax County’s largest natural area, preserves critical wetland, meadow and forest habitats, providing a refuge for wildlife and a peaceful retreat for visitors. Huntley Meadows Park is located 3701 Lockheed Blvd. in Alexandria. For more information, visit the Huntley Meadows Park website or call 703-768-2525. 

Historic Huntley, built in 1825 by Thomson Mason, offers a glimpse into the region’s early 19th-century history and architecture overlooking the park’s landscape. Historic Huntley is located 6918 Harrison Lane in Alexandria. For more information, visit the Historic Huntley website or call 703-768-2525.

With an award-winning system of 420 parks, the Fairfax County Park Authority relies on thousands of volunteers to support its programs and initiatives. It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to operate this nationally recognized park system without their dedicated service.

The Park Authority is now accepting nominations for the annual Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Program, recognizing the outstanding contributions of volunteers. Online nominations are open for the following awards:

• Elly Doyle Park Service Award & Youth/Student Award – These awards honor Ellamae "Elly" Doyle’s many years of service and accomplishments as a member and chairman of the Park Authority Board. During her tenure, Fairfax County’s park system expanded significantly, adding open space, new recreational facilities, and fostered a strong commitment to preserving local natural and cultural resources. This award recognizes a volunteer or group of volunteers for their outstanding contributions to Fairfax County parks.
• The Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award – Recognizes outstanding teamwork and cooperation in providing state-of-the-art facilities in Fairfax County parks, honoring the service and contributions of retired Park Board member Harold L. Strickland.
• The Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship Award – Honors historian, volunteer and acclaimed author Mayo S. Stuntz by recognizing exceptional contributions to FCPA cultural preservation efforts.
• The Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award – Recognizes individuals who exemplify the spirit of Sally B. Ormsby’s dedication to environmental stewardship and education about local natural resources.
• The Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Award – Recognizes significant, tangible contributions made by individuals, organizations or businesses that enhance diversity systemwide and foster a culture of inclusion within parks and the surrounding community.

Nominations are due by Friday, May 16. The nomination form is available on the awards nomination webpage. Nominations in all categories may be submitted by the general public, including Park Authority employees and volunteers.

Award recipients will be honored later this fall. For additional details, visit the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards webpage.

For more information or alternative formats of the application, please contact the Public Information Office via Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The wait is over—Fairfax County Farmers Markets are back open for business! Hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority, these beloved markets connect residents with local farms and food producers across ten locations countywide.

Each market offers a vibrant selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh baked goods, specialty foods and more. Markets also feature seasonal events, cooking demos, kids’ activities and live music—making it easy and fun to shop local and eat fresh.

Check out the full schedule below and plan you next market visit.

WEDNESDAYS

McCutcheon/Mount Vernon

April 16-Nov. 26, 8 a.m. - noon

Sherwood Library, 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane

Oakmont

May 7-Oct. 29, 8 a.m.-noon

Oakmont Recreation Center, 3200 Jermantown Road

Wakefield

May 7-Oct. 29, 2-6 p.m.

Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road

THURSDAYS

Annandale

May 1 -Oct. 30, 8 a.m. - noon  

Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike

Herndon

May 1 -Oct. 30, 8 a.m. - noon  

Old Town Herndon, 700 Block of Lynn Street by the Red Caboose

FRIDAYS

McLean

May 2-Oct. 31, 8 a.m.-noon

Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Road

Kingstowne

May 2-Oct. 24, 3-7 p.m.

In the Giant parking lot, 5870 Kingstowne Towne Center

SATURDAYS

Burke

Apr. 19-Nov. 22, 8 a.m.-noon

VRE parking Lot, 5671 Roberts Parkway

Reston

Apr. 26-Nov. 22, 8 a.m.-noon

Lake Anne Village Center, 1609-A Washington Plaza

SUNDAYS

Lorton

May 4-Nov. 23, 8 a.m.-noon

VRE parking lot, 8990 Lorton Station Blvd.

Please visit the Farmers Market website for a complete list of market times and locations. If you have any questions, please contact the Community Horticulture Office at 703-642-0128.

Ever wonder what you’re missing when the lights stay on? This International Dark Sky Week, April 21–28, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites you to reconnect with the wonder of the night—and learn how to protect it.

Light pollution doesn’t just dim our view of the stars. It also disrupts wildlife, impacts our health and wastes energy. But small changes at home can make a big difference for our skies. Join the movement and be a night-sky hero!

Here are a few ways you can take action:

• Learn the glow-down. Brush up on outdoor lighting standards in Fairfax County.
• Flip the switch for flight. Dim your lights to help migrating birds navigate safely.
• Make your mark. Share your dark sky-friendly actions and inspire others to do the same.
• Bring the stars back. Discover simple changes to reduce light pollution at home.
• Earn a patch. Sign up for a Dark Sky Scouting class and earn the Girl Scouts Dark Sky Patch.

It’s time to take back the night—one porch light at a time. Explore how you can make a difference by visiting the Dark Skies website.

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 on Saturday, May 10, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event promises to be a day of culture, community and fun, with activities and entertainment for all ages.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of AAPI cultures through a dynamic lineup of performances, workshops and interactive experiences. From traditional dance and music to contemporary arts and crafts, this event showcases the vibrant diversity and contributions of the AAPI community.

Event Highlights:

• Cultural Performances: Enjoy captivating dance and music performances from local AAPI artists, bringing traditional and modern expressions to life on stage.
• Interactive Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops, including calligraphy, origami and martial arts demonstrations, perfect for all ages.
• Culinary Delights: Savor delicious AAPI cuisine with food vendors offering a variety of authentic dishes and treats.
• Art Exhibits: Explore stunning art displays featuring works by AAPI artists, celebrating heritage and creativity.
• Children’s Activities: Kids can enjoy face painting, storytelling sessions and engaging crafts designed to teach and entertain.

Mason District Park is located at 6621 Columbia Pike in Annandale Admission is free, and all are welcome to join in the festivities. Parking is available on site.

For more information about the AAPI Heritage Celebration, please visit the AAPI Heritage Festival webpage.

The Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage is presented by the Asian Community Center in partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

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 them at 703-324-8582.

With an award-winning system of 420 parks, the Fairfax County Park Authority relies on thousands of volunteers to support its programs and initiatives. It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to operate this nationally recognized park system without their dedicated service.

The Park Authority is now accepting nominations for the annual Elly Doyle Park Service Awards Program, recognizing the outstanding contributions of volunteers. Online nominations are open for the following awards:

• Elly Doyle Park Service Award & Youth/Student Award – These awards honor Ellamae “Elly” Doyle’s many years of service and accomplishments as a member and chairman of the Park Authority Board. During her tenure, Fairfax County’s park system expanded significantly, adding open space, new recreational facilities, and a strong commitment to preserving local natural and cultural resources. This award recognizes a volunteer or group of volunteers for their outstanding contributions to Fairfax County parks.
• The Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award – Recognizes outstanding teamwork and cooperation in providing state-of-the-art facilities in Fairfax County parks, honoring the service and contributions of retired Park Board member Harold L. Strickland.
• The Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship Award – Honors historian, volunteer and acclaimed author Mayo S. Stuntz by recognizing exceptional contributions to FCPA cultural preservation efforts.
• The Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award – Recognizes individuals who exemplify the spirit of Sally B. Ormsby’s dedication to environmental stewardship and education about local natural resources.
• The Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (JEDI) Award – Recognizes significant, tangible contributions made by individuals, organizations or businesses that enhance diversity systemwide and foster a culture of inclusion within parks and the surrounding community.

Nominations are due by Friday, May 2, 2025. The nomination form is available on the awards nomination webpage. Nominations in all categories may be submitted by the general public, including Park Authority employees and volunteers.

Award recipients will be honored later this fall. For additional details, visit the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards webpage.

For more information or alternative formats of the application, please contact the Public Information Office via Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

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. Peralta will serve a term through March 2026.

Jose Peralta is a 36-year resident of Northern Virginia and a longtime volunteer with numerous park advocacy organizations throughout Fairfax County. He brings to the board a deep commitment to preserving the county’s unique ecology and ensuring that every resident has opportunities to connect with the land.

In his professional life, Peralta is an executive at a global insurance brokerage, where he works closely with state and local governments to help them manage risk. His expertise lies in complex natural catastrophe hazards, and he is a frequent speaker on climate risk and other emerging issues impacting government entities.

Peralta’s appointment reflects a strong alignment with the Park Authority’s mission to inspire a respect for nature, promote community wellbeing and protect open spaces for future generations. His knowledge and passion for sustainability and climate resilience will serve the board well in guiding future park initiatives.

Peralta will be up for reappointment in March 2026.

Get your ticket for staying cool this summer by hitting the gold rush sale — purchase discounted season passes for The Water Mine. Don’t miss your chance to secure this deal, purchase by Monday, May 26.

The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole, located at Lake Fairfax Park at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, opens for the season at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 24. Race down exciting water slides, relax in the 725-foot lazy river, play in sprays and showers in the water playground, test your skills in the log walk obstacle course, and interact with gentle bubblers, fountains and pint-sized slides in the Tenderfoot Pond. Fairfax County Park Authority invites everyone to explore the popular, Old West-themed water park this summer.

Season passes offer savings on daily admission prices — the more you visit, the more you save. Get these sale prices while they last: $115 for a single person, $182 for a family of two and $67 for each additional person (ages 2 and younger enter for free).

Purchase Water Mine tickets online

Or buy them by calling 703-246-5929. 

Sensory friendly times at The Water Mine return this year. The Water Mine will open to all those with disabilities and their families for a sensory friendly hour:

• Tuesday, June 24, 10-11 a.m.
• Tuesday, July 15, 10-11 a.m.
• Tuesday, August 5, 10-11 a.m.

Learn about Sensory Friendly times and more at The Water Mine website.

With a commitment to high-quality early childhood education, Fairfax County Park Authority preschools are where learning begins and growing never stops. Throughout the school year, these programs help children develop the essential skills they need for success in full-time school.

Preschools engage children in a variety of age-appropriate activities that include art, science, music, outdoor play and circle time. Offered two to five days a week, these programs encourage independence and help children build a strong, positive self-image.

FCPA preschools are licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services and staffed by dedicated, experienced professionals who are CPR- and First Aid-certified and have successfully completed all required background checks. Participation in these safe and inclusive programs helps children reach their full potential — enhancing social interaction, supporting cognitive development and ability to thrive in a structured learning environment.

“At FCPA, we are committed to high-quality early learning that sets the stage for lifelong success. Our experienced and caring teachers create safe, engaging classrooms where children learn through play, exploration and meaningful connection,” says Christine Hodgson, FCPA Youth Services Section Coordinator. “We believe strong partnerships with families are key to each child’s growth, and we work together to support their unique development. At FCPA, early education is more than school readiness — it’s preparation for life.”

FCPA Preschools

Kids Play Preschool at:

• Franconia Rec Center, 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
• Stone Mansion, 3900 Stoneybrooke Drive, Alexandria

Spring Hill Rec Center Preschool at:

• Spring Hill Rec Center, 1239 Spring Hill Road, McLean

Preschool Open House

Families interested in enrolling students for the 2025-2026 school year can learn more at an upcoming preschool open house on Thursday, May 22. Drop by during the open house hours to meet preschool staff, participate in tours, ask questions and learn more about our programs:

• Thursday, May 22, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at Franconia Rec Center, 6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria
• Thursday, May 22, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at Spring Hill Rec Center, 1239 Spring Hill Road, McLean

Registration for the 2025-2026 school year is now open. Learn more and enroll at the Park Authority preschool webpage.

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.

Get the whole family involved with an array of offerings sure to excite, educate and entertain! Engage with nature through hands-on activities, burn off some energy with games and challenges, create themed crafts, visit with exhibitors, connect with our four-legged friends and take in some tunes with live music performances!

Here are some Earth Day festivities:

• Play with our animal friends from Frying Pan Farm Park.
• Check out the Wonder Wagon Mobile Nature Center to broaden your understanding of local wildlife, plant life and our ecosystem.
• Enjoy live music from Recycling Pirates, 2ndSole and Proverbs Reggae Band.
• Go for it with physical challenges:
  • Giant rock-climbing wall
  • Nerf archery and golf Puttskee
  • Outdoor ice skating
  • Fitness demonstrations
• Connect with nature through "land" kayaking and camping.
• View insects under the microscope and learn about their impact on farming.
• Find games and activities with fun prizes at every turn!
• Create puppets, press flowers in a Cosmic Smash Book, or make sustainable play dough from grain milled at our own Colvin Run Mill.
• Eat, drink and be merry with a variety of vendors to whet your appetite.
• Explore with naturalists: From sighting birds in the treetops with binoculars to Geocaching for treasures.
• Touch-A-Truck: Check out some of the amazing vehicles and machines that help serve our community every day.
• Sensory Tent: For those who may need to find a calmer and more relaxed way of celebrating the day, or who may just need to take a break from the excitement, our sensory tent is filled with toys, fidgets and crafts.

For a complete rundown of the day’s activities and programs, visit the Earth Day Festival website. Individual admission to the Earth Day Festival is free; the parking fee is $10 per vehicle.

Sully Historic Site is located at 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, Virginia.

View the Earth Day flyer

The 2025 Earth Day Festival is made possible in partnership with the Fairfax County Park Foundation. The Fairfax County Park Foundation, a 501(c)(3), supports the Fairfax County Park Authority by raising private funds, obtaining grants, and creating partnerships. Visit the Park Foundation website for more information or call 703-324-8582.