Park Authority

The new inline skate rink at Lake Fairfax Park is open for business! The Fairfax County Park Authority and Washington Capitals joined to commemorate the opening of the inline skate rink on Saturday, May 11 with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and free hockey skills clinic. It was a fantastic event with representatives from the Park Authority, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Washington Capitals and an active community ready to drop the puck!

“This was a phenomenal day to celebrate the opening of a wonderful new inline skate rink – a first for the Fairfax County Park Authority,” said Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole. “One of the reasons we have a world-class park system is that we work with our community to provide a wide variety of amenities to support a whole world of interests. From sports, recreation and fitness to nature, history and the arts, we are committed to seeking out and providing diverse opportunities to serve our community.”

See more photos by visiting the Park Authority's Flickr page. 

The inline skate rink at Lake Fairfax Park boasts an 85-foot-by-185-foot rink with player boxes, penalty boxes, hockey goals and bleachers. The rink, constructed with sport floor tiles on an asphalt pad, is ideal for roller hockey and skating, with easy maintenance and modular tile replacement. The project was made possible in partnership with the Washington Capitals, which donated the rink via turnkey installation on an improved site constructed by the Park Authority.

"The Capitals are proud to partner with the Fairfax County Park Authority on this new facility," said Capitals director of youth hockey development Peter Robinson. "Investments like this one are part of the Capitals commitment to growing the game of hockey by providing access to the sport in all its forms. This new outdoor rink is focused on ball hockey and inline hockey, and we are excited for the programming that will take place here for years to come."

The rink is currently open for general use (when not reserved) from 9 a.m. until dark. Once the lighting is programmed, the rink will remain open until 9:30 p.m. For more information about the rink, visit the Lake Fairfax Park Skate Park webpage and select the “Inline Skate Rink” tab.

Lake Fairfax Park is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston. For more information, visit the Lake Fairfax Park website or call 703-471-5415. 

Dr. Rebecca Kormos, renowned wildlife biologist, filmmaker and National Geographic Explorer, is set to engage audiences in a thought-provoking discussion centered around her latest book "Intertwined: Women, Nature, and Climate Justice" on Saturday, June 1, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Green Spring Gardens.

This event serves as a unique opportunity for individuals to gain insights into the vital connection between gender, environmental conservation and climate justice, while also offering practical avenues for advocacy and support. Registration is required and admission is $12 per person.

Come join the discussion as Dr. Kormos will delve into the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and highlighting their critical role as holders of valuable knowledge about nature. Despite this, women often find themselves excluded from decision-making forums concerning the future of the planet. Joined by women conservationists, Dr. Kormos will explore themes raised in her book, emphasizing how the leadership of women in nature protection can be better supported and amplified.

Following the talk, attendees will have the opportunity to engage with Dr. Kormos during a book-signing session, providing a chance for further discussion and interaction.

Register for Intertwined - Women, Nature and Climate Justice

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

Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers offer a variety of resources and amenities to help maintain and improve your health and wellness and connect with community. The Park Authority invites all residents of Fairfax County to come, see and get connected during its Rec Center Open House Events on Wednesday, May 22.

Take advantage of all-day free access to rec center amenities – from pools, saunas and spas to gyms, courts and fitness centers. The Park Authority invites you to explore the facility from top to bottom and investigate the wide variety of programs available. All rec centers will host special activities and programing from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., featuring arts and crafts, sample drop-in fitness classes and demonstrations, wellness and swim assessments, games, special treats, and an opportunity to meet with fitness professionals and learn about a membership options. In addition, explore these evening special features:

• Have you ever wondered about the soft playroom at Franconia Rec Center (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria)? See for yourself during the 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. free playtime.
• Kids can join the fun with an indoor obstacle course and supersize Connect 4 and Jenga. Adults can take part in Pilates Reformer demonstrations and enter the raffle to win a fitness tracker at Cub Run Rec Center (4630 Stonecroft Blvd., Chantilly).
• Join the esports tournament at Spring Hill Rec Center (1239 Spring Hill Road, McLean).
• Grab shaved ice from the Kona Ice Truck at South Run Rec Center (7550 Reservation Drive, Springfield).
• Take part in the backyard barbecue-themed event with outdoor games (weather permitting), prizes, hot dogs, popcorn and cotton candy at Providence Rec Center (7525 Marc Drive, Falls Church).

Find your closest rec center and explore the full schedule of events by visiting the Rec Center website.

View the Rec Center Open House flyer

May Membership Sale: Join or renew your annual rec center membership during the month of May and receive a 15% discount. One price gets you entry into all Park Authority rec centers located across Fairfax County. There are no initiation fees or annual dues. Memberships can be purchased in person at any of the rec centers or the Rec Center passes webpage. 

Enjoy an evening of relaxation and creativity at Laurel Hill Golf Club’s Sip and Paint event on Thursday, May 23, from 5 to 7 p.m.

Unwind with a beautiful view overlooking the golf course and paint your very own masterpiece with guided instruction. Guests will be provided with all necessary paint supplies, two glasses of wine and light hors d’oeuvres to enjoy while painting. Cost is $65.

Whether you're an experienced painter or picking up a brush for the first time, don’t miss this opportunity to create beautiful art in a scenic setting. The event is rain or shine.

Register by May 19 for Laurel Hill Sip and Paint

Laurel Hill Golf Club is located at 8701 Laurel Crest Drive, in Lorton. For more information about this event and other Golf Fairfax programs, please visit the Golf website.

This National Trails Day, join the Fairfax County Park Authority, Rep. Gerry Connolly, local leaders and the community in celebrating 10 years of the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail! Join us on Saturday, June 1, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the Laurel Hill Central Green to celebrate the Park Authority’s more than 330 miles of trails.

Don’t miss this fun – and free – morning event! Activities will include a variety of interactive and educational experiences:

• Explore nature with the Park Authority’s mobile nature center – the Wonder Wagon.
• Climb aboard a fire truck and meet members of Fairfax County’s Fire and Rescue team.
• Learn to plan a hike using the Park Authority’s Trail Buddy App.
• Explore the history of Laurel Hill Park.
• Bring your bike along and link up with fellow riders along the local bike trails.
• Join us for a guided hike Laurel Hill’s natural resource management area.

Laurel Hill Central Green is located at 8780 Lorton Road in Lorton. Those planning to hit the trails with FCPA should come prepared with proper footwear and attire, insect repellant, sunscreen and plenty of water. To learn more about the event, please visit our National Trails Day webpage.

View the National Trails Day Flyer

Established by the American Hiking Society in 1993, National Trails Day is an annual event that brings communities together to celebrate trails, encourage stewardship of local hiking paths and raise awareness for trail preservation.

On National Trails Day and every day, the Fairfax County Park Authority encourages residents to take advantage of our expansive trail system throughout the county, which includes the Gerry Connolly Cross County Trail. The 42-mile cross county trail connects the whole county from the Occoquan to the Potomac rivers and passes through every magisterial district. To learn more about this and other trails throughout the Park Authority’s trail network, visit the Trails website.

Calling all nature enthusiasts and gardening aficionados! Join in celebrating National Gardening Day at Lake Accotink Park on Saturday, June 1 with the Friends of Lake Accotink Park between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This hands-on learning experience not only provides a chance to rub elbows with the pros, but you can help leave a positive mark on the Margaret Kinder Pollinator Garden at Lake Accotink Park.

Work alongside experts to learn the tricks of the trade in caring for the garden and pollinator plants. The Friends of Lake Accotink will also provide seeds, plants and instructions on how to start your own pollinator garden (while supplies last). Gardening guests can meet at the Margaret Kinder Pollinator Garden located just up the hill from the marina at Lake Accotink Park and adjacent to the large group pavilion.

For more information or to sign up for these events, please visit the Friends of Lake Accotink Park website.

Lake Accotink is located at 7500 Accotink Park Road in Springfield. For information about the park, please visit the Lake Accotink Park website or call 703-569-3464.

In a few short weeks, the Park Authority’s 35th Summer Entertainment Series returns to Fairfax County Parks! Beginning June 1, residents can enjoy 196 outdoor concerts and movies at 17 locations across the county. This year’s lineup continues a long tradition of outdoor concerts that have brought communities together for enjoyable, memorable evenings filled with entertainment and fun for the whole family.

"Last summer, more than 37,000 people attended 189 concerts across the county. They let music lift their spirits, raise their hopes, awaken their memories, forge friendship between cultures and kindle a sense of belonging," said Sousan Frankeberger, Performing Arts Production Manager for the Fairfax County Park Authority.

This summer’s schedule includes a diverse lineup of performances from classical to bluegrass and everything in between, as well as children’s performances, music and dance from around the world and drive-in movies. The Summer Entertainment Series performances are provided in partnership with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, the Fairfax County Park Foundation, and the tremendous support of individuals, businesses, corporations and volunteers who contribute to the success of these entertainment series:

• Arts in the Parks children’s entertainment series (7 locations)
  • Burke Lake Park Amphitheater
  • E.C. Lawrence Park Amphitheater
  • Mason District Park Amphitheater
  • Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center
  • Wakefield Park
  • Sully Historic Site

• Braddock Nights (Fairfax, Springfield)
• Evenings on the Ellipse (Fairfax County Government Center)
• Franconia District Nights (Franconia)
• Hunter Mill Melodies (Herndon)
• Mount Vernon Nights (Alexandria, Lorton)
• Music at Arrowbrook Centre Park (Herndon)
• Providence Presents (Vienna, Merrifield)
• Spotlight by Starlight (Annandale)
• Springfield Nights (Fairfax Station)
• Starlight Cinema Drive-in Movies (Chantilly)

Explore these series and the upcoming performances by visiting the Summer Entertainment Series website. We look forward to seeing you this summer and encourage you to invite friends and family to attend.

Performances and movies are held outdoors and may be canceled in the event of inclement weather. Please call 703-324-SHOW (7469) before leaving home for inclement weather updates.

The Summer Entertainment Series 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.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is expecting to begin revitalization work at the Popes Head Park basketball and tennis courts on Friday, May 10. The project will include the replacement of old asphalt surfacing, fencing, goals, net posts and footers. New sealcoat, color coat and playing lines will also be applied to the courts.

Popes Head Park will remain open during the athletic court revitalization. However, construction activities may temporarily impact some areas of the park. Weather permitting, FCPA anticipates that the work will conclude by summer 2024.

Popes Head Park is located at just off Quiet Brook Road in Fairfax Station. For more information, please contact project manager Marcos Suarez at marcos.suarez@fairfaxcounty.gov or contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority will be making improvements to the existing tennis courts at Mason District Park. Contractors will mobilize on site in early June, with work expected to begin on Wednesday, June 12. The project will include the replacement of old asphalt surfacing, fencing, gates, net posts and footers. New sealcoat, color coat and playing lines will also be applied to the courts.

Mason District Park will remain open during the tennis court revitalization. However, construction activities may temporarily impact some areas of the park. Weather pending, the Park Authority anticipates that the reconstruction work will conclude in fall 2024.

Mason District Park is located at 6621 Columbia Pike, Annadale. For more information, please contact project manager Kelly Davis at kelly.davis@fairfaxcounty.gov.

In a separate effort, the Park Authority has begun the process of identifying an optimal location within the park to add two dedicated pickleball courts. Additional information about this project and opportunities for community engagement will be forthcoming once the proposal is completed. Questions regarding these pickleball courts may be directed to the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Fairfax County residents receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits can now double their benefit – up to an additional $40 – to purchase fruits and vegetables at five Fairfax County Park Authority Farmers Markets. SNAP benefit matching is provided through funding received from Viginia Fresh Match and community partners Arcadia, Britepaths and Cornerstones.

Bring your EBT cards to the SNAP Information Table at participating markets and receive double the amount (up to $40) to purchase extra fruits and vegetables. For example, if you take out $50 off your card, you will receive $50 in SNAP tokens and $40 in Match tokens to spend in the market. SNAP tokens can be spent on any SNAP-eligible item, while Match tokens can only be spent on fresh fruits and vegetables. The following markets are participating in the program:

McCutcheon/Mount Vernon Farmers Market

Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to noon (April 17 to Dec. 18)

2501 Sherwood Hall Lane, Alexandria

Wakefield Farmers Market

Wednesdays, 2 to 6 p.m. (May 1 to Oct. 30)

8100 Braddock Road, Annandale

Annandale Farmers Market

Thursdays, 8 a.m. to noon (May 2 to Nov. 14)

6621 Columbia Pike, Annandale

Reston Farmers Market

Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon (April 27 to Dec. 7)

1609-A Washington Plaza, Reston

Lorton Farmers Market

Sundays, 8 a.m. to noon (May 5 to Nov. 10)

8990 Lorton Station Blvd., Lorton

SNAP provides nutrition benefits to supplement the food budget of needy families so they can purchase healthy food and move toward self-sufficiency. For information or to apply, go to the Common Help website or call 855-635-4370.

For more information about the Park Authority’s Farmers Markets and the SNAP Match program, please go to the Farmers Market website.