Park Authority

The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards, recognizing exceptional service and contributions to the county’s parks, natural and cultural resources and recreational opportunities.

The awardees will be honored during a recognition ceremony this September sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

Established in 1988, the Elly Doyle Park Service Awards honor the legacy of Ellamae “Elly” Doyle, whose leadership as a member and chairman of the Park Authority Board helped expand the park system, preserve open space and enhance recreational facilities across Fairfax County.

This year’s honorees were selected for their dedication, volunteerism and commitment to protecting the county’s natural, cultural and historic resources. Awards are presented in five Fairfax County Park Authority categories, along with three Eakin Awards from the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

The Elly Doyle Park Service Awards will go to:

• Tim Bowers: Since 2017, Bowers has led the Edible Garden project at Green Spring Gardens, guiding more than 40 Master Gardeners to grow and donate more than 8,000 pounds of produce to local food banks. He’s developed workshops, sustainable practices and community partnerships that enrich education and food access.
• Carolyn Gamble: Gamble retired as Huntley Meadows Park Site Manager after 30 years and has volunteered for more than a decade supporting the park and Historic Huntley. She created a major exhibit for their anniversaries and co-led efforts to increase park funding, strengthening community connection and advocacy.

Elly Doyle Special Recognition Awards

• Cynthia Glakas: A Frying Pan Farm Park volunteer since 2024, Glakas serves as a docent, carousel operator and wagon driver. Her flexible, welcoming approach enhances visitor experiences, and she contributes personal crafts to enrich the historic setting.
• Paul Gross: Founder of Friends of Royal Lake, Gross has led community-driven improvements and advocacy for more than 10 years, resulting in new trails, park upgrades and environmental restoration. He also volunteers at Twin Lakes Golf Course, helping manage local leagues and events.
• Brian Keith: Keith has volunteered at Sully Historic Site since 2019, contributing more than 1,400 hours to trail maintenance and historic craft programs, enriching educational offerings with his expertise in traditional trades.
• Christina Tyler Wenks: Wenks led the successful 296-page Dark Sky designation application for Observatory Park at Turner Farm, dedicating more than 200 hours. As a NASA Solar System Ambassador, she promotes dark sky education and environmental awareness regionally.

Harold L. Strickland Partnership and Collaboration Award

• Marc Kohn: Kohn, president of USA Synthetic Rinks, has donated resources and educational support valued at more than $10,000 to Fairfax County Park Authority programs, including Earth Day events and youth recreation, exemplifying strong partnership and collaboration.

Sally Ormsby Environmental Stewardship Award

• Sara Holtz: Founder of the IMA site at Difficult Run Stream Valley Park, Holtz has led more than 230 volunteer sessions since 2017, focusing on invasive removal, native planting, youth mentorship and community education to protect Fairfax County’s natural resources.

Mayo Stuntz Cultural Stewardship Award

• Mary Lipsey: Lipsey has preserved and promoted Lake Accotink Park’s history through research, educational materials, artifact cataloging and youth history camps, demonstrating deep commitment to cultural stewardship.

Chairman’s Choice Awards

• Ken Quincy: Quincy served on the Park Authority Board (2007–2025), chairing key committees and leading civic efforts. His leadership ensured responsible park stewardship and expansion of recreational amenities across Fairfax County.
• Aimee L. Vosper: As Deputy Director, Vosper oversees key Park Authority divisions and fosters partnerships with the Park Foundation, advancing environmental stewardship and enhancing recreational opportunities countywide.

Eakin Philanthropy Awards (Presented by the Fairfax County Park Foundation)

• Helen L. Kafka: Kafka’s philanthropy supports numerous park outreach programs. As a Legacy Circle member, her estate gifts fund key initiatives and the Forever Fund, sustaining Fairfax County parks long-term.
• Pohanka Automotive & Scott A. & Phyllis P. Crabtree Family Foundation: These partners enrich Fairfax County parks through Summer Entertainment Series sponsorships and Wonder Wagon vehicle donations, helping expand environmental education and community access.
• McLean Central Park Playground Team: This grassroots group partnered with the Fairfax County Park Foundation to raise nearly $500,000 for playground renovation through community fundraising and events. Special thanks to team leaders for their dedication.

For questions, contact the Public Information Office at ParkMail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

About the Fairfax County Park Foundation

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

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 out and play!

Here’s our top picks for celebrating National Golf Month at Golf Fairfax:

• Make it a family affair: Kids 17 and under play FREE with a paying adult at Burke Lake Golf Center, Jefferson Golf Course, Oakmont Golf Center, Pinecrest Golf Course. Valid Monday through Friday all day and weekends after 1 p.m. in August. Limit one child per paying adult.
• Nothing like a little friendly competition: Play the 18-hole Jefferson Cup - Club Championship on Aug. 16 and test your skills in a spirited showdown with friends.
• Cool off, play on! Perfect your swing from the comfort of the indoor practice bays or Trackman room golf simulator at Pinecrest Golf Course—get real-time analytics on swing, club speed, ball flight and more!
• Tee up with tasty treats: Power up your game with Sim and Snack specials from the Pinecrest Grill while you test your skills at the indoor TrackMan 4 Simulator.
• Find your home on the range: Our ranges are the par-fect place to practice, and don’t just take our word for it! Burke Lake and Oakmont were ranked in the top 50 Public Ranges in U.S. by Golf Range Association of America. Save 35% on 40 range ball bucket pricing with the Range Flex Pass.
• Three cheers for ice-cold beers! Stay cool and refreshed with our Buckets & Beer Specials, the ultimate summer combo, at the Burke Lake, Oakmont and Twin Lakes driving ranges.
• Up your game: Are you ready to embark on a world class golf education? PGA, LPGA and USGTF professionals are eager to share their expertise with beginner and experienced golfers alike. Choose from group classes or private lessons at Pinecrest, Burke Lake, Oakmont, Twin Lakes and Laurel Hill.
• Give the gift of golf: Golf gift cards can be purchased at Fairfax County Park Authority Golf Course Pro Shops and make the perfect gift. One card works for all seven golf courses so you can explore a new course or play your favorite.
• Queens on the green! Women and Golf Fairfax is your go-to-spot to find ladies-only classes, women’s leagues, tournaments, private lessons and more. Come to sharpen your game, stay for the good vibes.
• Stay in the loop: Download the FREE Golf Fairfax Mobile App and sign up for Golf Fairfax’s E-News Club. Book tee times with ease and never miss information on discounts, promotions, tournaments, classes and special events throughout the year.

Golf Fairfax’s seven courses and four driving ranges are located conveniently throughout the county. Courses are open year-round, weather permitting, and are owned and operated by the Fairfax County Park Authority.

To learn more about National Golf Month and ways to celebrate with Golf Fairfax, visit the Golf Fairfax website.

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. The renovations, scheduled to begin Monday, Aug. 18, 2025, will focus on upgrading key heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems serving the fitness center, racquetball courts and pool.

To safely complete the work, the facility will undergo temporary closures:

• Pool, Spa, Family Change Room and upper level: Closed from Aug. 18 to Sept. 6
• Racquetball Courts: Closed from Aug. 18 to Sept. 16 
• Fitness Center: Closed from Aug. 18 to Sept. 18 (date subject to change)
• Full Building and Parking Lot Closures:
  • Wednesday, Aug. 20, until 4 p.m. (backup day Thursday, Aug. 21)
  • Wednesday, Sept. 3, until 4 p.m. (backup day Thursday, Sept. 4)

The fitness equipment will be moved into the gymnasium to allow patrons to continue their workouts during the upgrades. The main entrance and patron check-in will move to the gymnasium door by the parking lot.

The upcoming improvements at Franconia Rec Center will enhance both the fitness and aquatics areas. In the fitness center and racquetball courts, the air handling system will be replaced and upgraded to provide better temperature control and improved energy efficiency. In the aquatics area, a second pool HVAC unit will be installed to improve overall air quality, along with a new low deck exhaust system to more effectively ventilate humid air and enhance the swimmer experience. Additionally, ceiling-mounted destratification fans will be added to promote better air circulation throughout the natatorium.

"These upgrades are designed to significantly improve the overall experience for our members by ensuring better air quality and comfort, especially during peak seasons,” said Sara Baldwin, Deputy Director and Chief Operating Officer of the Fairfax County Park Authority. “We appreciate the community’s patience as we complete these much-needed improvements."

This project follows earlier upgrades completed during the spring break 2025 window, including replacement of a rooftop pool air handling unit over the childcare area to support summer operations.

Our Special Harbor, Chessie’s Big Back Yard, the Amphitheater, volleyball, tennis and pickleball courts will not be impacted by the construction activity, even when the Rec Center is closed.

Rec Center members are invited to use any of Fairfax County Park Authority’s other Rec Centers including the nearby Mount Vernon Rec Center (2017 Belle View Blvd. in Alexandria). Franconia Rec Center members who want to pause their memberships can make this request by visiting the front desk before closure begins or by submitting a request to pause membership online.

For questions or more information, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Get ready for your dog’s favorite day of the year. Gather up your canine companions and head out to The Water Mine for a dogs-only swimming day on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. 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. Watch your furry friends dive for joy while you peruse the canine resource fair with pet-related vendors. Come out to make more dog-loving friends, entertain the whole family and have a doggone good time.

For the safety of all dogs and their humans, please observe the following rules:

• All dogs must be current on vaccinations.
• All dog handlers must be 18 years or older and supervise dogs at all times.
• No female dogs in heat or puppies younger than 3 months old.
• Aggressive or unruly dogs are not permitted.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their dogs.
• Dogs swim at owners’ risk.
• Humans are not permitted in the pool.

Entry costs $15 per dog, and all proceeds go to benefit parks through the Fairfax County Park Foundation. Buy tickets in advance to secure your dog’s spot — purchase tickets at the door if capacity allows.

Register for Dog Daze

Learn more about FCPA’s dog-focused activities and events on the Dogs of Fairfax County website.

Dog Daze is presented by Fairfax County Park Authority in partnership with the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole at Lake Fairfax is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston, Virginia. For more information, visit The Water Mine website.

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.

Calling all wanderers, explorers and trailblazers — your next adventure lies along the Discovery Trail! The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that three exciting new sites have been added to the odyssey!

Discover hidden wildlife hotspots at Huntley Meadows, step into a bygone era at Grist Mill Park’s historic barn and check out Mount Vernon Rec Center’s brand-new recreation facilities.

The Discovery Trail Map invites families, friends and individuals of all ages on a free, self-guided adventure through featured parks. Explore the outdoors, learn something new and enter for the chance to win awesome prizes!

How To Participate

Pick up a free Discovery Trail Map at Park Authority Rec Centers, Nature Centers or Golf Courses or download it from the Discovery Trail Map website.

• Visit eight featured parks, answer a fun trivia question at each site and fill in the answer on the map.
• Complete the trail and turn in your map to one of five prize redemption locations by Sept. 1, 2025 to earn an amusement prize pack and be entered to win one of 25 grand prizes. Grand prizes include a backpack with binoculars, foldable frisbee, collapsible pet bowl, boat hat and first aid kit.

View the Discovery Trail Map

“The Discovery Trail map began in 2014 and has been a popular summer activity with families ever since. Each year the Discovery Trail Map has taken place, a committee of Park Authority staff has chosen a theme. As the Fairfax County Park Authority celebrates its 75th anniversary, participants will be able to explore the parks and learn of the history dating back thousands of years. Today, the Park Authority is incorporating innovative solutions at sites to preserve parks for generations to come.” – Jai Cole, Executive Director of the Fairfax County Park Authority

Blaze the trail and discover the stories that shaped Fairfax County’s past, present and future.

The 2025 Fairfax County Park Authority Discovery Trail Program is sponsored 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 Fairfax County Park Foundation website for more information or call 703-324-8582.

An application for curatorship has been received for the Lahey Lost Valley historic house. The Fairfax County Park Authority will continue to accept resident curator applications for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of the house until Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, by 5 p.m.

The Resident Curator Program offers long-term lease agreements to qualified tenants in beautiful public park settings. The curator leases are without charge in exchange for financial commitment and approved rehabilitation of the Park Authority’s underutilized historic properties.

The Lahey Lost Valley House, located at 9750 Brookmeadow Drive in Vienna, is a mid-18th century brick hall-parlor house with a 1940s brick addition. The house is located on land granted to William Gunnell in 1730. His son Henry Gunnell, together with Henry’s wife Catherine, built a working plantation on the site by 1760. The Gunnell family were leaders in Fairfax County throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. The family continued to own the property through the 1930s.

In 1940, the house and 45 acres were sold to Richard and Carlotta Lahey. The Laheys moved a wood framed kitchen addition off the brick house and used it as a freestanding artist’s studio. In its place, the Laheys constructed a two-story brick addition. Between 1990 and 1991, Carlotta Lahey arranged with FCPA a bequest to be included in her will to donate the house, furnishings and 22 acres of land. FCPA took possession of the property after Mrs. Lahey passed away in 1999.

To identify potential lessees in the Resident Curator Program, FCPA is seeking proposals for the rehabilitation of the house in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Curators will be determined through an open and competitive process, based on several criteria, including a formal proposal, demonstrated experience and competency in historic preservation techniques, financial capabilities and the incorporation of public benefits.

Complete application forms and additional information about the properties are available by visiting Lahey Lost Valley webpage.

For more information, contact Stephanie Langton, Resident Curator Program manager at 703-324-8791 or by email at stephanie.langton@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is joining markets across the country to celebrate National Farmers Market Week from Aug. 3-9, 2025. Join us for live music, kids' activities and free giveaways at all Park Authority Farmers Markets!

National Farmers Market Week highlights the vital role farmers markets play in supporting local food systems. For more than 30 years, the Park Authority’s farmers markets have shaped how Northern Virginia eats, shops and connects with food. Each year, the markets support more than 130 farmers and food producers, while serving both the community and the environment.

The markets offer more than fresh produce and homemade food. They also provide a free food scrap collection service to reduce landfill waste. Since 2023, the program has diverted more than 280,000 pounds of food waste from landfills, turning it into compost instead. This year, the markets went plastic bag-free. Customers can now pick up free reusable bags and washable produce bags at the market information tent.

To make fresh food accessible to everyone, five Park Authority farmers markets accept SNAP benefits. For these shoppers, benefits are doubled—up to $40—allowing them to purchase twice as much fresh produce. This program brought in $98,000 in sales last year, benefiting families and supporting local farmers. The markets also host "Nourish Your Neighbor," a fresh food drive held on the last market day of the month. Shoppers can buy extra produce and donate it on site to local food pantries that help neighbors in need.

From picking up veggies or dinner to reducing waste through composting or donating food, every visit to the farmers market makes a difference. Celebrate National Farmers Market Week with us from Aug. 3-9 and see how local food strengthens communities and protects the planet!

For more information and market locations, visit the Farmers Market website.

Looking for a fun and fulfilling part-time job this fall? Spend your season at Burke Lake Park, one of Fairfax County’s most beautiful outdoor destinations! Drop-in interviews at the Burke Lake Park Info Center will be held Aug. 7, 8, 14 and 15 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (no appointment needed!) Come by to explore job opportunities, complete an application and interview on the spot all in one visit!

Available positions include:

• Campground Attendant
• Information Center Attendant
• Lakefront Maintenance
• Marina Attendant
• Miniature Golf Attendant
• Manager on Duty (MOD)
• Train Station Attendant

Can’t make it to the Drop-In interviews? No worries! View job ads and apply now for open positions by visiting the Burke Lake Jobs webpage.

View all employment opportunities with FCPA by visiting our Jobs website.

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

For more information about employment, contact the Park Authority at FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-8792.

Step right up! Experience good old-fashioned family fun at the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair, coming to Frying Pan Farm Park from Thursday, July 31, to Sunday, Aug. 3. This year’s event is bigger than ever, featuring rides and games, fair food, tractor demonstrations, 4-H exhibits, farm animals, Big Truck Night and live entertainment.

Event Hours

Thursday, July 31

• Carnival: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and 5–8 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 1

• Carnival: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and 5–9 p.m.
• Big Truck Night: 5–7 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 2

• Carnival: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and 5–10 p.m.
• 4-H Fair Opening Ceremony: 10 a.m.
• 4-H Fair (Exhibits, activities, and farm demos): 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sunday, Aug. 3

• Carnival: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. and 5–7 p.m.
• 4-H Fair (Exhibits, activities and farm demos): 10 a.m.–4 p.m.
• 4-H Fair Closing Ceremony: 4 p.m.

Please note: The carnival will pause daily from 4–5 p.m.

A $10 parking fee applies on Friday (after 4 p.m.) and all day on Saturday and Sunday. Cash and credit are accepted.

Carnival rides require tickets which can be purchased online or on site. Unlimited ride wristbands for Thursday and Friday are available for purchase: $21.25 per person (prepay online) or $25 per person at the gate between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Wristbands are good for one day. Please note that an additional convenience fee will be applied to credit/debit transactions.

For ticketing details, visit the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair website.

The 4-H Fair takes place Saturday and Sunday. Currently in its 75th year, the event showcases Fairfax County youth achievements in agriculture, STEM, healthy living and civic engagement through hands-on exhibits, competitions and interactive activities.

"We’re excited to celebrate the 75th anniversary of Fairfax County’s 4-H Fair, honoring decades of positive youth development and accomplishments," said India Pearson, 4-H Extension Agent for Fairfax County. “This milestone is a tribute to the talent, dedication and future leadership of our youth here in Fairfax County.”

Visit the 4-H Fair Digital Guide for the full schedule of events

To learn more about the Virginia Cooperative Extension’s 4-H program, check out Fairfax County’s 4-H website.

“At its heart, the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair is about bringing people together,” said Jai Cole, executive director of the Fairfax County Park Authority. “Through our strong partnerships and community support, this event offers a vibrant space where families can enjoy classic fair fun, explore local resources, and build lasting memories. We’re grateful to all the sponsors and organizations who help make this annual tradition possible.”

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.

The Fairfax County Carnival and Fair is provided through a partnership with the Fairfax County Park Authority, Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, the Fairfax County Office of Virginia Cooperative Extension, the Fairfax County Park Foundation and the Friends of Frying Pan Farm Park.