Park Authority

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 need to protect Earth's natural resources for future generations. Fairfax County’s Earth Day Festival creates the perfect environment for children and adults of all ages to expand their knowledge about the world around us through games, activities and hands-on exploration. Here’s just a few topics you can expect at this year’s Earth Day Festival:

• Strategies to grow bigger, better plants
• Information for identifying and getting rid of invasive plants
• Ways insects help the environment
• Effect of erosion on archaeology
• How to use a historic corn grinder
• History through activities
• Composting

With live music, outdoor ice skating, the popular touch-a-truck exhibit and more, this is a learning experience you don’t want to miss. Admission to the event is free, but there is a parking fee of $10 per vehicle. 

Sully Historic Site is located at 3650 Historic Sully Way in Chantilly. For more information about the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Earth Day Festival, visit the Earth Day website. 

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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.
 

The Fairfax County Park Authority – in partnership with Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman, The Fairfax County Park Foundation and The McLean Central Playground Team – is pleased to announce the official ribbon-cutting to commemorate the reopening of McLean Central Park. This event will celebrate an extraordinary collaboration to enhance one of McLean’s beloved community spaces and create a more vibrant and accessible park experience.

• When: Saturday, March 29 at 10 a.m.
• Where: The New McLean Central Park Pavilion; 1468 Dolley Madison Blvd.; McLean, VA 22101

Limited parking is available at the Dolley Madison Library and the McLean Community Center.

The event will include a brief speaking program with speakers, including Kiel Stone, Chairman of the Fairfax County Park Authority Board; Fairfax County Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole; and Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman. The program will also include Laura Eakin Erlacher, Chair of the Fairfax County Park Foundation and Dr. Cara Schantz of the community-based McLean Central Playground Team, who spearheaded a fundraising effort to generate approximately $400,000 to support the construction of the new playground facilities.

For more information about the event or McLean Central Park, please contact the Park Authority’s Communications Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

We look forward to celebrating with you!

Contributions for the McLean Central Park Project were coordinated by 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 703-324-8582.

Fairfax County Park Authority’s Healthy Strides program helps improve health equity and empowers residents to make informed decisions about their wellbeing. Make strides to improve your health and wellness from any location, for free, with the Healthy Strides Wellness Workshops and virtual fitness classes.

“Healthy Strides directly supports the mission of One Fairfax by providing equitable access to fitness programs and health education resources,” said Ryan Ross, Wellness Coordinator for Fairfax County Park Authority. This program strives to provide all residents with the resources and support they need to achieve optimal health. To help meet this goal, the program offers a comprehensive suite of free and accessible opportunities to learn and get active.

Virtual Fitness Classes

Residents can participate in weekly virtual fitness classes from the comfort of their own homes at no cost. Virtual fitness classes are held through Microsoft Teams; all that’s needed is to download the app on a phone or tablet. Get active virtually with our Pilates, yoga, tai chi, body sculpting and basic training classes that cater to diverse fitness levels and interests.

“I think it's a great program and allows those who are not able to get to the gym stay healthy and fit. I really appreciate the fact that I can work out anywhere if you have internet connection and join a class. And if you are immune compromised, it allows you to work out in the comforts of your own home without worrying about getting sick from those around you,” said one community participant.

Find the Virtual Community Fitness Classes calendar at the Healthy Strides website.

Wellness Workshops

In addition to fitness classes, Fairfax County Park Authority offers free, virtual wellness workshops. These regular workshops address critical health topics relevant to the community that align with national health observances. They provide practical guidance on forming healthy habits. Participants gain insights into key health topics, learning about everything from heart health to nutrition to diabetes prevention to stress management and empowering people to make positive lifestyle changes.

Upcoming workshops include:

• Fueling Growth: Nutrition’s Impact on Autism Management, Wednesday, April 23, 7 p.m.
• Calm Through Cuisine: How Diet Can Help Manage Stress, Wednesday, May 21, 7 p.m.
• Mindfulness Unplugged: Integrating Nature Therapy and Mindfulness Techniques, Wednesday, June 18, 7 p.m.

Stay tuned to upcoming classes in the calendar on the Healthy Strides website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is undertaking significant revitalization projects at Oakmont and Franconia Rec Centers to enhance pool air quality for swimmers and spectators. These efforts align with the county’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality in its facilities, fleet vehicles, and operations by 2040.

At Oakmont Rec Center, work is underway to upgrade the pool dehumidification system, with completion expected by April 2025, weather permitting. Patrons should expect occasional construction traffic. Crane operations are scheduled for April 3, April 10, and April 18. A scheduled pool outage will begin at 7 p.m. on March 31, with normal operations resuming on April 3. These improvements will significantly enhance air quality, creating a healthier and more comfortable environment for swimmers and spectators. Similar upgrades at Spring Hill Rec Center in spring 2024 have already demonstrated positive results.

At Franconia Rec Center, Phase I of the revitalization project will begin in mid-April and conclude by early May 2025, weather permitting. Crane operations will take place on April 14 and April 17. On April 14, the child care area will be blocked off until mid-morning, while on April 17, the women’s locker room, lower dance room and lower meeting room will be closed until mid-morning. Phase II, starting Aug. 18, will focus on fitness center heating, ventilation and air conditioning upgrades and pool ductwork renovations. These upgrades will improve ventilation and temperature control, ensuring a better experience for all users.

For a full list of available Rec Centers during construction, visit the Rec Center website.

For further details, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Spring is here, bringing warmer days and big savings on golf rounds! Now is the perfect time to stock up and hit the greens like a pro. From March 20 to April 4, golfers can save on weekend and weekday passes at Burke Lake, Greendale, Jefferson, Laurel Hill (senior rounds only), Oakmont, Pinecrest, and Twin Lakes golf courses.

Spring pass deals include:

• Get 25% off 15 rounds, 20% off 10 rounds, and 10% off 5 rounds. Pass savings are based on regular greens fees.
• Senior golfers (65+), buy 15 rounds and only pay for 14 rounds.
• Passes are available for 9 or 18 holes, for both weekend or weekday rounds.
• Golf passes are valid at the course where it was purchased for two years after the date of purchase.

Visit participating golf pro shops to purchase your passes.

For more information on the Spring Golf Pass Sale, visit the Golf passes webpage.

The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to celebrate two significant anniversaries in 2025: the 50th anniversary of Huntley Meadows Park and the 200th anniversary of Historic Huntley. These milestones highlight the enduring historical and environmental importance of these beloved sites. There will be a variety of events and activities for visitors of all ages to mark the occasion.

Anniversary Celebrations and Public Events

A series of special events will take place throughout the year, providing opportunities for the public to explore, learn and engage with these historic and natural treasures.

Wetlands Awareness Day

Sunday, May 4, noon-4 p.m.

Huntley Meadows Park will host a family-friendly celebration, featuring live animal encounters, hands-on activities and engaging exhibits about the wetlands ecosystem. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about local wildlife, including raptors, reptiles and amphibians, while enjoying a day outdoors in one of Fairfax County’s most biodiverse environments.

Family Hilltop Outing: Celebrating 200 Years

Saturday, May 17, 4:30 p.m.

Historic Huntley will open its doors for a special anniversary tour, offering visitors a rare chance to experience the home’s history, while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Families can enjoy storytelling, historical insights and activities that bring the past to life.

Special Exhibit: A Retrospective on Huntley Meadows

March 8 - June 1, 2025, Norma Hoffman Visitor Center

To honor Huntley Meadows Park’s 50-year legacy, a photographic retrospective will be on display at the Norma Hoffman Visitor Center. The exhibit, “Huntley Meadows at Fifty – Looking Back and Moving Forward,” will highlight the park’s transformation over the decades and its continued role in conservation and education. Visitors are encouraged to call ahead at 703-768-2525 for exhibit availability.

Anniversary Merchandise and Memorabilia

To mark these significant anniversaries, limited-edition commemorative items will be available for purchase at the Huntley Meadows Park gift shop. Visitors can take home a piece of history and show their support for these beloved Fairfax County landmarks.

About Huntley Meadows Park and Historic Huntley

Huntley Meadows Park features diverse habitats, including wetlands, meadows and forests. It is a vital refuge for wildlife and a favorite destination for nature enthusiasts, bird watchers and photographers.

Historic Huntley, built in 1825 by Thomson Mason, grandson of George Mason IV, is an early 19th-century villa that offers a glimpse into Virginia’s past. Overlooking Huntley Meadows Park, the estate provides visitors with a unique perspective on regional history and architecture.

Join the Celebration

Don’t miss the chance to celebrate and explore Huntley Meadows Park and Historic Huntley. For more details on upcoming events, visit the Huntley Meadows Anniversary webpage.

On March 1, athletes gathered at Oakmont Rec Center to put their skills to the test at the Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) Adapted Swim Meet. FCPA Special Olympic swim teams gathered at this event to showcase their skills, gain confidence and prepare for upcoming competitions. This time trial is more than just a qualifier, it’s a celebration of perseverance and teamwork.

“The season's start at Oakmont Rec Center is a testament to the power of community support and the extraordinary spirit of the athletes,” said Lucia Valentino, FCPA Adapted Aquatics Instructor and Special Olympics Swim Coach. “The Fairfax County Park Authority's Special Olympic swim teams are a shining example of community and dedication, comprising 150 athletes from five local Rec Centers. These teams provide athletes with disabilities with the opportunity to thrive in a supportive and competitive environment.”

This program promotes inclusion and physical fitness, while showcasing the boundless potential of the athletes. FCPA Special Olympic swim teams will continue competing through the season.

Teams are part of FCPA’s Adapted Aquatics program that provide individualized swimming and water activities for adults and children with physical and developmental disabilities. Anyone interested in signing up for adapted swim programs can learn more by visiting the Adapted Programs website.

“Learning to swim is such an important skill for anyone to have. We provide training and shadowing opportunities,” said Linda Crone, volunteer manager for Adapted Aquatics.

The Adapted Swim Meet and the entire Adapted Aquatics program depend on a dedicated team of volunteers. Fairfax County Park Authority has the largest Adapted Aquatics program in Northern Virginia, with more than 150 volunteers who range in age from 14 to 80 years old. Anyone age 14 and older can volunteer. Sign up at by visiting the Volunteer Fairfax website.

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.

All year, the Park Authority offers hundreds of swim lessons for ages 6 months to adult. The following six-week class sessions build skills and increase your suite of swim skills:

• Baby & Me (6 months-18 months)
• Toddler & Me (19 months-3 years)
• Pee Wee Paddler (age 3-7)
• Swimming for Children (age 6-12)
• Stroke Mechanics (age 6-18)

Children motivated to learn with a little competition can sign up for a team in FCPA’s Summer Swim League. Those ages 6 to 14 who know the basics can level up their skills with weekly practices and put these new skills to the test in the league’s swim meets.

Register for a Swim class by the June 16 deadline

Those looking for focused, private and semi-private swim lessons can sign up for One on One Swim Lessons or Small Group Swim Lessons. These opportunities help students improve aquatic proficiency, gain confidence and build skills in the pool with the guidance of the FCPA’s talented instructors.

FCPA does not stop there, our talented staff are taking water safety education into classrooms around Fairfax County this spring. Through June, aquatics staff are hosting Get Set, Get W.E.T. (Water Education Training) to educate thousands of local preschoolers about lifeguards’ role in keeping swimmers safe and the essential rules everyone should follow to ensure safety at the pool. The program features an interactive, short presentation designed for small groups of children. Sessions are packed with engaging stories and games that make learning about water safety both fun and memorable. Children get introduced to various water safety props, such as life jackets and rescue tubes, and receive coloring sheets that reinforce key water safety messages.

“A comprehensive water safety program such as Get Set, Get W.E.T. is essential in promoting accident prevention by equipping children with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe in and around water. Through engaging education, practical demonstration and interactive activities, these programs instill a deep understanding of water hazards, the importance of supervision, and lifesaving techniques, ultimately reducing the risk of water-related accidents and fostering a culture of safety," said Sarah Barrack, Lifeguard Training Coordinator for FCPA.

FCPA is committed to equipping everyone in the community with the knowledge and skills needed to enjoy water safely this summer. Learn more by visiting the Swimming webpage.

Earth Day Fairfax is happening on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sully Historic site in Chantilly, Virginia. Earth Day Fairfax is the County’s largest Earth Day celebration, and we are seeking volunteer support to make this annual event a success!

Join us for a daylong event featuring games, entertainment, exhibits, workshops, vendors and activities geared toward increasing our understanding and enjoyment of the world around us. The event attracts nearly 5,000 people from across Fairfax County annually. Volunteers are needed to fill shifts throughout the day in a variety of capacities, including: 

• Set-up attendants
• Check-in greeters 
• Nature and recreation activity attendants 
• Guest assistance  

This is a fantastic service opportunity for students seeking service hours or community members looking to give back. Through a variety of service activities, volunteers will impact community and planetary health while having fun throughout the day!

All volunteers must be 15 years old or older. Multiple shifts are available to accommodate scheduling needs. For additional detail in individual volunteer opportunities and to sign up, visit the Volunteer Fairfax website .

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. For more information about the Park Foundation, visit its website or call 703-324-8582.

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 in Oakton, Virginia. To mark the occasion, Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik, Park Authority Board Member Ken Quincy and several members of GOCA joined FCPA for a special celebration on Friday afternoon.

Originally built in 1897 by carpenter James Thompson, the Oakton Schoolhouse was the third school constructed in the Oakton community. Over the years, it became a vital hub, hosting fundraisers, religious gatherings and student talent shows. In 1944, businessman Irvin Payne purchased the building, repurposing it as a hardware store and garden shop. The schoolhouse changed hands several times before FCPA acquired it in 2003 to preserve its historical significance.

GOCA, established in 2019, is dedicated to fostering community connections and preserving Oakton’s historic and environmental assets. The organization shares local information, collaborates with HOAs and other groups, and develops programs that enrich the community.

Under the MOA, GOCA will use the Oakton Schoolhouse for events, meetings, rentals, historical presentations, classes, theater productions and educational programs. This partnership strengthens the connection between the community and Park Authority-owned historic sites, ensuring continued outreach, engagement, and growth.

For more information, contact the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.