Park Authority

Four Fairfax County Park Authority staff members were recognized on July 16 with lifesaving awards from Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department for their extraordinary actions during a water emergency at Providence Recreation Center earlier this year.

In May, lifeguards Michaela Zawadzki, Juliet Raimando and Anna Parker, along with Manager on Duty Jeremy Alexander, responded immediately after a swimmer became unresponsive in the pool. Following their emergency action plan, staff quickly removed the individual from the water, cleared the pool, initiated CPR and chest compressions and deployed an automated external defibrillator (AED) before Fairfax County Fire and Rescue personnel arrived on scene.

"This incident is a powerful reminder of the importance of rigorous training, teamwork and preparedness," said Fairfax County Park Authority Deputy Director Sara Baldwin. "Michaela, Juliet, Anna and Jeremy remained calm under pressure and put their lifesaving skills into action when every second mattered. We are incredibly proud of the work our aquatics staff do every day to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our community."

Upon the arrival of Fire and Rescue crews, the swimmer began to recover. The swift actions, professionalism and training demonstrated by the recreation center staff played a critical role in the successful outcome.

Fairfax County Park Authority lifeguards undergo extensive training in water rescue, CPR, first aid and emergency response to ensure they are prepared to respond quickly and effectively to aquatic emergencies. Their commitment helps provide a safe environment for the millions of guests who visit Park Authority aquatic facilities each year.

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

Come out to Sully Historic Site in August to enjoy an evening of movies under the stars at the Starlight Cinema. This series of movies returns with a lineup that the entire family will enjoy.

Grab your crew and head out to 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, to sit back, relax and watch movies “drive-in” style — view and listen from your car or bring chairs and blankets to watch from the lawn. Pack a basket for a moonlit picnic or try a new treat from one of our food truck partners and enjoy free entertainment that comes to you as part of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series. 

Starlight Cinema brings the community together for wholesome family entertainment with a feature film that begins at dark. Gates open at 6:30 p.m., so come early to get a good spot. Mark your calendars for:

• Aug. 1: "Tangled"
• Aug. 8: "Zootopia 2"
• Aug. 15: "Finding Nemo"
• Aug. 22: "Cars"

The rain date for movies will be Aug. 29. For more details, visit the Summer Entertainment Series' Starlight Cinema webpage.

All performances are held outdoors. In case of inclement weather, call the concert hotline at 571-202-SHOW (7469) before leaving home. Cancellations are updated online and via hotline one hour before showtime.

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 that contribute to the success of these entertainment series.

Fairfax County Park Foundation

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.

At its July 14 meeting, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors proclaimed the month of July as Park and Recreation Month in Fairfax County. The county joins jurisdictions from across the nation in commemorating National Park and Recreation Month, celebrating the role of parks and recreation and recognizing the role of park and recreation professionals in building vibrant communities. This year’s Park and Recreation Month celebrates "The Power of..." parks and recreation, and the people who make it possible.

"Each year, we’re reminded of the tremendous impact parks and recreation have on daily life in Fairfax County," said Jai Cole, executive director of the Fairfax County Park Authority. "Parks offer endless opportunities for connection – connection with nature, with history and culture, with recreational experiences, and with one another. This is made possible by the dedication of park and recreation professionals and their commitment to serving Fairfax County."

Representatives from the Fairfax County Park Authority, Department of Neighborhood and Community Services and the McLean Community Center and Reston Community Center were in attendance to accept the proclamation hallmarking Fairfax County’s collaborative approach to providing exceptional experiences for individuals and families at every stage of their lives. These organizations provide facilities, amenities, services and programs to promote wellbeing and access to cultural, natural and historical experiences throughout the county.

For more information about the Fairfax County Park Authority’s observance of National Park and Recreation Month, visit the Park and Recreation Month webpage.

The votes are in, and Laurel Hill Golf Club has been named the second best golf course in Fairfax County in the 2026 FFXnow Readers’ Choice rankings.

Laurel Hill is the largest of the Fairfax County Park Authority's seven golf facilities. Nestled in Lorton's rolling terrain, the award-winning course offers scenic landscapes, a rich historical backdrop and a memorable golf experience. The championship 18-hole layout features dramatic elevation changes and strategically designed holes, along with a 9,400-square-foot clubhouse, the Tower Grill restaurant, a full-service practice facility and performance center, making Laurel Hill a premier destination for golfers of all skill levels.

Twin Lakes Golf Course also earned recognition as one of FFXnow's "Other Notable Spots," recognizing the quality and variety of golf experiences that are available through Golf Fairfax.

Located in Clifton, Twin Lakes Golf Course offers two 18-hole championship courses, driving range, practice green, cafe and clubhouse. The clubhouse features a 3,300-square-foot Oaks Room perfect for golf outings, meetings, weddings and other special events. Twin Lakes is a favorite destination for golfers of all skill levels throughout the year.

These reader selected honors reflect the dedication of Golf Fairfax staff and the continued support of the golfers who play, practice and connect at our courses. View the complete results by visiting the FFXnow Readers' Choice rankings website.

About Golf Fairfax

Golf Fairfax owns and operates eight public golf courses throughout Fairfax County, providing affordable, accessible opportunities for golfers of all ages and skill levels. From championship courses and driving ranges to instructional programs, tournaments and special events, Golf Fairfax is committed to creating exceptional golf and recreational experiences while promoting lifelong enjoyment of the game. Learn more by visiting the Golf Fairfax website. 

Ready to dive into a rewarding job that makes a real impact in your community? The Fairfax County Park Authority is seeking part-time, year-round lifeguards to join the team at all nine rec centers across the county.

Attend our Open Hire Event for a streamlined hiring experience. You'll complete your application, take a swim test, interview with our team and, if selected, register for a free Ellis & Associates Lifeguard Certification course—all in the same day.

Open Hire Locations and Dates

Tuesday, July 28, 2026, between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

• Location: Martha Washington Library (6614 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria). Applicants will complete a swim test at nearby Mount Vernon Rec Center (2017 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria) following their interview.

Sunday, Aug. 2, 2026, between 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

• Location: Oakmont Rec Center, 3200 Jermantown Road, Oakton

Applicants should be prepared to complete a swim test and interview. Please make sure to bring appropriate swim attire, towel and a change of clothes.

The swim test consists of:

• Swimming 100 yards continuously using a front crawl or breaststroke.
• Retrieve a 10-pound dive brick from the deepest part of the facility’s pool (between 12 feet to 14 feet deep).
• Tread water without hands for one minute.

Position Details:

• Monday-Friday shift times between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m.; other availability will be considered based on site need.
• Positions are part-time and year-round.
• No experience required—FCPA provides all required training after a successful job offer.

As a Fairfax County Park Authority lifeguard, you'll enjoy free access to the Rec Center where you work, while gaining valuable experience for future careers in public safety, healthcare or the military. With flexible schedules, opportunities to advance to Lifeguard II and Head Lifeguard, and paid lifeguard certification for qualified candidates, this is an ideal opportunity for college students, veterans, retirees and active older adults looking for meaningful, rewarding work.

Candidates must be at least 15 years old at the start of the course, and employment is contingent upon successful course completion and satisfactory results on a background check.

Sign up for swim test and interview

Or, simply walk in ready to go!

Can’t attend the open hire or looking for more information? View the job ad and apply by visiting the Aquatic Certification and Jobs webpage.

For more information, please reach out to FCPAJOBS@fairfaxcounty.gov.

At its meeting on June 24, the Fairfax County Park Authority Board approved a resolution honoring 21 individuals as 2026 Outstanding Volunteers. These peer-nominated individuals were recognized for their dedication to their community and their invaluable service to the Fairfax County park system:

• Sue Albright, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Natural Resources/Horticulture
• Nancy Bond, Franconia Rec Center, Assistant Volunteer Program Coordinator
• Michael Bufano, Mount Vernon Rec Center, Ice Skate Monitor
• Deborah Burk, Providence Rec Center, General Support Assistant
• Bryan Campbell, Long Branch Stream Valley Park, Park Volunteer Team Lead
• Dave Eckhardt, Laurel Hill Golf Club, Golf Course Play Manager
• Mary Zook, Green Spring Gardens, Front Desk/Special Event/Education Program Support
• Avril Garland, Accotink Stream Valley Park, IMA Site Leader
• Nisha Jain, Oakmont Rec Center, Class Instructor
• Jean Johnson, Frying Pan Farm Park, Wagon Driver
• Jerome Johnson, Twin Lakes Golf Course, Course Director
• Susan Ju, Spring Hill Rec Center, Adapted Aquatics Assistant
• Chip Leonard, Colvin Run Mill, Blacksmith
• Bill Masker, Audrey Moore Rec Center, Front Desk
• Patrick McCormack, Archaeology and Collections Branch/James Lee Center, Archaeological Laboratory
• Vivian Morgan-Mendez, Nottoway Park, Site Assistant/Volunteer Program Coordinator
• Kim Nguyen, Cub Run Rec Center, Volunteer Program Coordinator
• Jerry Nissley, Huntley Meadows Park, Educational Program and Special Event Assistant
• Christine Reynolds (posthumously), Riverbend Park, Roving Trail Monitor
• Carol Tretkoff, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Resource Naturalist
• Naomi Yilma, Hidden Pond Nature Center, Youth Program Support

More than 10,770 volunteers contributed to the operation, preservation and conservation of Fairfax County parks in Fiscal Year 2026. They contributed 115,718 hours of volunteer service and their work is valued at over $3.98 million. The Park Authority could not function without the support and commitment of our volunteer force.

"Each year, our volunteers remind us of the extraordinary power of people coming together with purpose. Their commitment to restoring habitats, supporting programs, and caring for our parks creates a community where nature thrives and neighbors feel connected. Their impact reaches far beyond the work they do; it inspires all of us to imagine what’s possible when we serve something larger than ourselves," said Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole.

The Park Authority’s outstanding volunteers will be honored with a special evening of music and celebration at the upcoming Volunteer Appreciation Night taking place on Thursday, July 16, as part of the Government Center’s Evenings on the Ellipse Summer Concert Series. The evening will kick off at 5:30 p.m. with a welcome and words of appreciation for our volunteers from Park Authority Board Chairman Timothy Hackman. Following the opening remarks, enjoy a memorable performance by Signature Live!

The Evenings on the Ellipse series takes place on the lawn in the ellipse area directly behind the Government Center at 12000 Government Center Parkway in Fairfax. The venue is outdoors on a grassy area, so attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or folding chairs to comfortably enjoy the performance.

If there is any concern regarding weather on the night of the concert, please call the Park Authority’s hotline at 571-202-SHOW (7469) one hour before the start of the concert for a status update.

This month, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites residents and visitors to celebrate National Park and Recreation Month, a nationwide recognition of the vital role of parks building strong, healthy communities. This year’s theme -- “The Power Of....” -- highlights the power of parks and recreation to bring people together, support physical and mental health, and create resilient, connected communities.

This year the Fairfax County Park Authority is celebrating 75 years of powerful parks, programs, people and stories. Explore powerful places and experiences in Fairfax County parks that resonate with your passions and interests and discover what makes our parks so special.

Connect with the Power of Parks

The possibilities are endless for connecting with nature, recreational experiences and one another in Fairfax County parks. The county parks system contains 424 parks, more than 340 miles of trails, nine rec centers, 60 staffed sites, eight golf courses, four waterfront parks, and three nature centers. In addition, the Park Authority is hosting dozens of free, live entertainment performances across the county in July for its Summer Entertainment Series.

Play All Day

Playtime in parks is a great way to enjoy the summer season and, when temperatures soar, to beat the heat. Splash at Our Special Harbor, an accessible sprayground, and enjoy the slides and water slides and fun in the sun at The Water Mine. Paddle across Burke Lake, Lake Fairfax or Lake Accotink with a boat rental, or take a dip in one of the county’s indoor pools, such as Cub Run Rec Center. Carousels, a miniature train at Burke Lake Park and mini golf at four locations, including Jefferson Falls and Lake Accotink, are among the fun activities to enjoy outdoors. With more than 230 playgrounds across the county, there are plenty of choices.

Invest in Your Wellness

The restorative experiences of walking on trails, taking an exercise class or participating in solo or team sports activities in parks offer not only physical benefits but also advance health resilience and shared community benefits. Getting out to parks to enjoy activities that provide powerful connections to others and our surroundings can improve our outlook, sense of place and purpose and appreciation for the power of parks.

Find a park, plan an activity and discover what makes Fairfax parks great. Visit the Park and Recreation Month webpage  to learn more.

Travel the world without leaving town this summer by coming out to Arts in the Parks Cultural Heritage Nights, part of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series. Audiences can witness awe-inspiring musical and dance performances by talented artists, featuring rhythms from across the globe, at Ossian Hall Park located at 7900 Heritage Drive, Annandale.

Immerse yourself in spectacular performances that include:

• Saturday, July 11, 7:30 p.m.: Peruvian Cultural Heritage Night – Centro Cultural Peru
• Saturday, July 18, 7:30 p.m.: Bolivian Cultural Heritage Night – Ballet Folklorico Boliviano Nuestras Raices
• Saturday, July 25, 7:30 p.m.: Bulgarian Cultural Heritage Night – Lyuti Chushki
• Saturday, Aug. 1, 7:30 p.m.: Taiwan Cultural Heritage Night – Hai Hua Community Center
• Saturday, Aug. 8, 7:30 p.m.: West African Cultural Heritage Night – Dogo du Togo & The Alagaa Beat Band

"Enjoy the sights and sounds of cultures from around the world as the Summer Entertainment Series brings this tradition back to Ossian Hall Park," said Shera L. White, Fairfax County Park Authority Events and Volunteer Manager. “This series brings the diverse traditions of Fairfax County to life and provides a platform for the community to connect in our parks.”

Come out to enjoy everything from these cultural rhythms to kids’ concerts to shows featuring various genres to outdoor movies — search the full suite of events on the Summer Entertainment Series website. Join our Summer Concert Series e-news list to get updates about the upcoming schedule.

To celebrate with us, bring a chair, sit back, and let the night sky illuminate local talent. All performances are held outdoors. In case of inclement weather, call the concert hotline at 571-202-SHOW (7469) before leaving home. Cancellations are updated online and via hotline one hour prior to showtime.

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 that contribute to the success of these entertainment series.

Fairfax County Park Foundation

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 Foundation Board of Directors recently voted unanimously to accept the nominations of Ellen Gray, Radhika Subramanian and Jonathan Wertz as board directors of the fundraising arm for the Fairfax County Park Authority. The Park Authority Board confirmed these appointments at its June 24 board meeting. The new directors’ first term of service began on July 1 and extends through June 30, 2029.

"On behalf of the Fairfax County Park Foundation Board and Staff, I am pleased to welcome Ellen Gray, Radhika Subramanian and Jonathan Wertz to the FCPF board, " stated Laura Eakin Erlacher, FCPF Board of Directors Chair. "Their expertise and commitment as volunteer board directors will help FCPF continue to attract support for Fairfax County park improvements, outreach programs and community events."

Ellen Gray

Ellen Gray is president of Unlimited Horizons Business Services Inc., a Fairfax County small business since 1992, focusing on developing compassionate leaders/managers through leadership coaching. Gray earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Grantham University. Credentials include International Coaching Federation – Certified (ACC); Certified Gallup Clifton Strengths Coach; Certified Positive Intelligence Coach; Listening Intelligence Coach; and DISC, EQi 2.0, MBTI certified. Gray and her husband raised their two children in the North Springfield community and walks her beloved dog in Lake Accotink Park almost every day.

Radhika Subramanian

Radhika Subramanian is the deputy director of the High Performance Computing and Communications Program at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, where she oversees the computing infrastructure that powers the nation's weather forecasting, climate modeling and environmental research missions. Subramanian holds a master’s degree in business administration from Virginia Tech, a bachelor’s degree in economics from the University of Virginia, and an International Finance certificate from Oxford University. Subramanian is an active volunteer in her community and lives in Herndon, Virginia, with her husband and two children.

Jonathan Wertz

Jonathan Wertz is a senior leader with over 20 years of experience in national security, foreign policy and global operations. A retired U.S. Army officer, he served as an intelligence officer and Foreign Area Office. Wertz holds a master of arts in security studies from Georgetown University, a master of business administration from Webster University and a bachelor of science from the United States Military Academy at West Point. A longtime Northern Virginia resident, Wertz lives with his wife and two children. An avid runner and outdoors enthusiast, he enjoys hiking, camping and exploring Fairfax County parks with family and friends.

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’s signature Independence Day celebration launches this weekend with a first for the Fairfax County Park Authority: a drone light show over Lake Fairfax Park.

The Lake Fairfax 250th Independence Day Celebration is part of Fairfax 250, the countywide commemoration of America’s 250th anniversary.

Instead of traditional fireworks, hundreds of synchronized drones will light up the night sky with music, motion and patriotic imagery, celebrating American independence and Fairfax County’s role in the nation’s story. The show offers a lower-noise, debris-free alternative to fireworks.

The celebration also features live music, food vendors and family-friendly activities throughout the day. Explore scenic trails, enjoy boating and fishing, relax in picnic areas or make it a weekend getaway by camping onsite and walking to the show. The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole will be open during the day; admission is sold separately.

Event Details

Lake Fairfax 250th Independence Day Celebration
Sunday, June 28
Noon-10 p.m.
Lake Fairfax Park
1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston

The Water Mine opens at 10 a.m. Food trucks begin serving at noon, and live music starts at 2:15 p.m.

Live Music Schedule

• School of Rock: 2:15-3:15 p.m.
• The Sonic Boom: 4:15-5:15 p.m.
• The Reflex: 6:15-9:15 p.m.

Parking

• $20 per vehicle online through Saturday, June 27, at 11:59 p.m.
• $25 per vehicle at the gate, with limited spots available on a first-come, first-served basis
• Pedestrians and cyclists do not pay a parking fee

Entry begins at noon. Guests are encouraged to arrive by 8 p.m. for best access. The show begins at 9:30 p.m.

The celebration is hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority in partnership with the Fairfax County 250th Commission and the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

For parking passes and event information, visit the Lake Fairfax Park 250th Independence Day Celebration webpage.

About the Fairfax County 250th Commission

Established by the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors in 2021, the Fairfax County 250th Commission leads countywide efforts to honor and commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. Through partnerships, public programs and community events, the Commission celebrates the people, places and stories that shaped Fairfax County and our nation. Learn more by visiting the Fairfax 250 webpage.

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.

About Fairfax County Park Authority

Fairfax County Park Authority enriches the quality of life for all members of the community through an enduring park system that provides a healthy environment, preserves natural and cultural heritage, offers inspiring recreational experiences and promotes healthy lifestyles. Learn more about the Park Authority.