Park Authority

In celebration of Veterans Day, the Fairfax County Park Authority is extending its gratitude to our U.S. Armed Forces personnel. On Saturday, Nov. 11, veterans, active-duty military and their families can enjoy complimentary access to various activities, including Rec Center admission, carousel rides at Clemyjontri Park, camping at Lake Fairfax Park and wagon rides at Frying Pan Farm Park.

Rec Center admission includes entry to pools, fitness rooms, gyms/courts, and drop-in fitness classes at all county Rec Centers.

The Honoring America’s Veterans program is made possible through generous contributions to the Fairfax County Park Foundation from individual donors. It is also supported by donations to the Fairfax County Park Foundation that honor the life of Lt. Col. Gary F. Smith, a civilian employee of the Army who, at the time of his death, was attending a meeting at the Pentagon when American Airlines Flight 77 crashed on Sept. 11, 2001.

For more information, please contact participating locations directly. 

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.

The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin resurfacing and painting work at the Eakin Community Park parking lot located at 3401 Prosperity Ave. in Fairfax, Virginia. Work is expected to begin on Nov. 6, and is expected to conclude by the end of November 2023, weather permitting.

The parking lot will be closed for the duration of the project. Alternate parking is available at the secondary park entrance at 8515 Tobin Road in Annandale, Virginia. While the Prosperity Avenue parking lot is closed, visitors may find alternate recreation options by using the Park Amenity Locator.

The project will include the complete removal and replacement of the existing parking lot surface. Additional work includes repair of sections of adjacent trails. Residents in the surrounding area can expect occasional construction traffic entering and exiting along Prosperity Avenue throughout the project.

Eakin Community Park is located at 8515 Tobin Road in Annandale. The park includes a playground, basketball and tennis courts, athletic fields, picnic shelter, community gardens and trails. For more information, please visit the Eakin Community Park website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has scheduled a virtual public meeting to receive public comment on proposed park fee adjustments for 2024. The meeting has been set for Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. The public will be able to participate in the meeting at Fairfax County Park Authority 2024 Proposed Fee Schedule webpage. A call-in option is also available by dialing 855-925-2801 and entering the meeting code 3389.

Every year, the Fairfax County Park Authority receives approximately 35% of the funding required to support its operation through the Fairfax County General Fund. The remaining 65% of the operating budget is funded from the Park Authority Revenue and Operating Fund, a fund required to operate with a minimum of 100% cost recovery. The operating budget of the Revenue and Operating Fund is derived from various fees for programs, classes, services and amenities.

The virtual meeting will include a brief overview of the fee process, followed by an opportunity for the public to provide comments to the Board. Those who wish to speak may sign up in advance by contacting the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or by calling 703-324-8700; however, preregistration is not required. Individual remarks are limited to three minutes. Organizations represented by a single speaker may have up to five minutes to provide remarks.

The public may also submit comments to the Park Authority Board for their consideration online or via U.S. Mail. Comments will be accepted beginning Monday, Oct. 30, through Wednesday, Nov. 29.

All comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29 to be included in the Park Authority Board’s deliberations.

Details on the proposed fee adjustments as well as submission instructions are available at the Fairfax County Park Authority 2024 Proposed Fee Schedule webpage.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has approved the award of $20,000 in grant funding to help fund the renovation of a playground at McLean Central Park located within the Dranesville District. Funds were awarded through the Park Authority’s Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program. The applicant, The McLean Central Playground Team, is contributing $246,670 in raised community contributions to the project.

The McLean Central Park’s school-aged playground was installed in 1998 and is due for replacement. Currently, the school-aged playground and tot lot are located in separate areas of the park. The McLean Central Playground Team has been partnering with the Park Authority on plans to combine the two playgrounds into one centrally located area within the park. The new playground equipment will feature elements that support sensory play, adaptive tandem swings and other design features that promote connections and accessibility for all ages and abilities.

The total cost for the project is estimated at $442,609. In addition to the contributions from the McLean Central Playground Team and the $20,000 in grant funding, the Park Authority will be providing the remaining $175,939, which was originally allocated for the renovation of the school-aged playground alone. Work is projected to be completed by winter of 2024 to 2025.

The Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant Program encourages public-private ventures that improve Fairfax County parks and park facilities. It is designed to fill a gap between limited bond funding and the community’s desire for new or improved park facilities by assisting volunteer, community and user groups in improving park facilities by matching funds and in-kind services.

Since 1999, the program has awarded approximately $2.1 million in grants for projects valued at more than $16.3 million. Grants ranging from a few hundred dollars to the maximum of $20,000 have funded such projects as trail improvements, construction of gazebos and shelters and athletic field improvements.

For more information or to apply for a matching grant, visit the Mastenbrook Grants website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board received staff's proposed 2024 Fee Schedule at its Oct. 25 meeting. The presentation was the first step in the board’s consideration process, which includes a 30-day community engagement period with opportunities for the public to submit feedback and comments online, as well as participate in a virtual public meeting scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 15 at 7 p.m.

The virtual public meeting will include a brief overview of the fee process followed by an opportunity for the public to provide comments to the Board. Those who wish to speak may sign up in advance by contacting the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or by calling 703-324-8700. Individual remarks are limited to three minutes. Organizations represented by a single speaker may have up to five minutes to provide remarks.

The public may also submit comments to the Park Authority Board for their consideration online or via U.S. Mail. Comments will be accepted beginning Monday, Oct. 30, through Wednesday, Nov. 29. Comments may be submitted at the Engage Fairfax County website, or they can be mailed to:

Park Authority Public Information Office

ATTN: 2024 Fee Schedule Comments

12055 Government Center Parkway, Suite 925

Fairfax, VA 22035

All comments must be received by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 29, to be included in the Park Authority Board’s deliberations.

Every year, the Fairfax County Park Authority receives approximately 35% of the funding required to support its operation through the Fairfax County General Fund. The remaining 65% of the operating budget is funded from the Park Authority Revenue and Operating Fund, a fund required to operate with a minimum of 100% cost recovery. The operating budget of the Revenue and Operating Fund is derived from various fees for programs, classes, services and amenities.

For more information about the Park Authority’s proposed 2024 Fee Schedule, the upcoming public meeting and instructions for submitting comments, visit the Engage Fairfax County website.

To learn more the fee schedule, visit the Fairfax County Park Authority Fee Schedule website. 

Dive into the past and experience the thrilling days of the War of 1812 as it comes to life at Colvin Run Mill Historic Site on Sunday, Nov. 5, from noon to 3 p.m. This is not just history; it's history with a twist – engaging, interactive and family-friendly.

At Colvin Run, the War of 1812 is not just about battles and generals; it's about everyday people who played a pivotal role in assisting the U.S. Navy. The homefront was their battlefield. Discover unsung heroes who made extraordinary contributions during these challenging times, including the remarkable efforts of women who stitched uniforms with care, while farmers, millers, and bakers ensured a steady supply of food for the Navy.

Meet the crew of Ship’s Company, a War of 1812 reenactors’ group, and get an up-close-and-personal view of what it was like to be a sailor during that era. Don’t miss sampling naval pudding, a delicious treat cherished by sailors during the war.

Also enjoy the opportunity to explore a fully operational mill and witness how grain was ground into flour. Step inside the miller's house and uncover the secrets of the past. Don't forget to shop in our general store and buy fresh-milled flour and cornmeal from the historic mill!

Mark your calendars as we transport you to a time when bravery, resourcefulness and community spirit ruled the day. Registration is $10 per person.

Register for War of 1812 and the Homefront

View the event flyer

Colvin Run Mill is located at 10017 Colvin Run Road in Great Falls. For more information, visit Colvin Run Mill or call 703-759-2771.

Scary good times are just around the corner so grab your costume and join these frightfully delightful festivities! Make your Halloween memorable with the Fairfax County Park Authority!

Halloween on the Farm (Friday, Oct. 27 and Saturday, Oct. 28)

Multiple one-hour time slots are available between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park’s Halloween on the Farm. Enjoy trick or treating, friendly farm animals, festive crafts, games and activities and explore the Halloween-themed farmhouse! Registration is $10 per person.

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.

Register for Halloween on the Farm

Fear-less Fest (Saturday, Oct. 28)

Visit the Hidden Oaks Nature Center for a wildlife Halloween experience! Encounter costumed woodland creatures including spiders, raccoons, deer and owls, and discover why they’re not as scary as they may seem. Come in costume and join a guided trail walk and enjoy festive fall activities. This is a great event for scout groups and families. Multiple time slots are available between 5:30 and 8 p.m. Registration is $8 per person.

Hidden Oaks Nature Center is located at 7701 Royce St., Annandale. For more information, visit the Hidden Oaks Nature Center website or call 703-941-1065.

Register for Fear-less Fest

Ghost Town (Saturday, Oct. 28 and Sunday, Oct. 29)

It’s time to gather the family, grab your best costumes and head on over to Burke Lake Park! Join us for this NEW family tradition. The Ghost Town event will include themed-activity areas, train ride, carousel ride, crafts, a bounce house, mini golf and more. Admission is $15 per person and includes all Ghost Town activities and services. Children under 2 ride free but must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Tickets may be purchased up until two days before the event. During the event, tickets may be purchased at the Ice Cream Parlor.

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

Register for Ghost Town

A community on wheels gathered at Wakefield Skate Park for an all-around good time at Skate the Wake. On Sunday, Oct. 15, skateboarders of all skill levels came out to learn new tricks from experienced skaters and put their talents to the test in competition with fellow skaters during an afternoon of fun, music, food and prizes.

More than 150 skaters came out to enjoy the event hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority and the Park Foundation, with in-kind donations provided by American Boy and Sushi Skate. Headlining the event were five-time X-Games medalist and former coach of the USA Skateboarding Team, Mimi Knoop; “Top Chef” competitor and local restaurateur Spike Mendelsohn; and DJ Derran Eaddy, founder of Solstik Music.

“It was a fantastic day to be out at the Wakefield Skate Park and be a part of this close-knit skating community,” said Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole. “The day was filled with amazing feats of athleticism, but it was also impressive to watch as more experienced skaters helped teach beginner- and intermediate-level skaters basic skills and some new tricks -- and everyone cheered each other on. With all the fun, excitement and smiles all around, Skate the Wake was a big-time success!”

Knoop, Mendelsohn, and professionals from the Sushi Skate Co. judged the Best Trick Contest with competitions in the beginner, intermediate and advanced skill categories. Skaters competed in a five-minute jam session to impress the judges with their best tricks. Winners received a custom skateboard deck from Sushi Skate Co.

Congratulations to:

• Beginner: Owen Quinn
• Intermediate: Tony Sarro
• Advanced: John Kieran

Skateboarders, roller skaters, bikers, scooter riders, families and spectators alike all enjoyed a fun-filled day. Photos of the day’s activities can be found on the Park Authority’s Flickr page.

Learn more about the Wakefield Skate Park, located at 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, Virginia, by visiting the Wakefield Skate Park 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.

Lace up your running shoes and join the Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP) for a wild, fun-filled adventure at the first-annual Beaver Boogie 5K Fun Run/Walk! This fantastic event is set to take place on Sunday, Nov. 26, at scenic Lake Accotink Park. The race will begin at 10 a.m.

Get ready for a memorable 5K race through picturesque Lake Accotink Park – a perfect way to spend a day with family and friends. The Beaver Boogie is more than just a fun run; it's an opportunity to support the mission of the Friends of Lake Accotink Park (FLAP), a certified 501(c)3 organization dedicated to "protect, restore, preserve, and educate all concerning the natural, historical, and cultural resources of Lake Accotink Park." FLAP is an all-volunteer organization, which means that every donation directly fuels projects and programs at Lake Accotink Park.

Registration is $25 for each participant.

Register for the Beaver Boogie 5K through Eventbrite

View the 5K flyer

Lake Accotink is located at 7500 Accotink Park Road, Springfield. For more information and registration details, visit the Lake Accotink Park website.

Finding the right equipment is one of the most important aspects to improving your golf game. Golf Fairfax is partnering with Callaway and the Eisman Golf Academy to offer access to the latest clubs and equipment this fall.

Callaway Fitting Day

On Oct. 26 at Burke Lake Golf Center from 4 to 8 p.m., golfers will receive personalized club and ball recommendations and a best-in-class fitting experience. Through one-on-one sessions with Certified Performance Fitters, golfers can take advantage of cutting-edge fitting equipment, such as Foresight GCQuad launch monitors. Register in advance for a 30-minute or 60-minute session.

Burke Lake Golf Center is located at 6915 Ox Road, Fairfax Station. For more information, visit Burke Lake Golf Center or call 703-323-1641.

Ladies’ Fitting Day

On Oct. 29 at Twin Lakes Golf Course and Oct. 30 at Laurel Hill Golf Club from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., ladies can find the perfect fit for their golf game. Test out and purchase the latest clubs with expert advice from Nick Fusco, an Eisman Golf Academy instructor and master club fitter. Enjoy free 30-minute consultations, featuring equipment just for ladies. Customers can also take advantage of discounts on same day purchases. While appointments are encouraged, walk-ins are also welcome.

Twin Lakes Golf Course is located at 6201 Union Mill Road. For more information, visit Twin Lakes Golf Course or call 703-631-9099.

Laurel Hill Golf Club is located at 8701 Laurel Crest Drive, Lorton. For more information, visit Laurel Hill Golf Club or call 703-493-8849.

For more information and to sign up, visit the Park Authority Golf webpage.