Park Authority

Join us for a journey through time with the Archaeology and Collections Branch of the Fairfax County Park Authority. Explore hand-curated opportunities and follow the Park Authority on social media to uncover the rich history of the Potomac River Valley.

People of the Potomac: Archaeology of Riverbend Park

Visit the James Lee Community Center, located at 2855 Annandale Road in Falls Church, from Oct. 9 to Dec. 31. See artifacts from Riverbend Park, spanning Paleoindian, Archaic and Woodland periods. Discover stone tool technology adaptations to climate change.

The Archaeology of the Potomac River Valley: A View from the National Parks

Also, mark your calendars for Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon, at the James Lee Community Center Auditorium in Falls Church to join archaeologist Stephen R. Potter and explore archaeological discoveries in the Potomac River Valley. Learn about the first survey, modern research and unearthed treasures during this free event.

These events are sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Northern Virginia Chapter of the Archaeological Society of Virginia, and the Friends of Fairfax County Archaeology and Cultural Resources.

Throughout the month the Fairfax County Park Authority will be highlighting archaeological finds from within our own community on social media. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram -- @fairfaxparks -- as we embark on a captivating archaeological adventure! Learn the fascinating secrets behind our collections, fall into the excitement of unearthing history and be wowed by the passion of those who make a career out of preserving the past.

For more information about Virginia Archaeology Month or the Archaeology and Collections Branch of the Fairfax County Park Authority, visit the Archaeology Month website.

Jai Cole, executive director of the Fairfax County Park Authority, has been elected as a Fellow into the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration. Cole’s induction took place at the Oct. 4 general membership meeting of the Academy.

The Academy is an organization of distinguished practitioners and educators, who are leaders in the parks and recreation profession. To be elected into the Academy, an individual must have served for at least 15 years in a high level of administration in a park and recreation agency, or as a recognized educator in parks and recreation administration, or they must manage a park and recreation department for a community with a population of more than 500,000. They also must have demonstrated outstanding ability in administration, management or education in the profession; displayed broad interest with a direct service benefit to the advancement of public parks and recreation; or assumed leadership with a keen desire to contribute to the advancement of the field. The Academy is limited to 137 active members.

Cole is a park professional with more than two decades of leadership experience with award-winning recreation and park agencies. At the Fairfax County Park Authority, she leads an accredited, multi-Gold Medal-winning park system with 420 parks and more than 23,000 acres of park land with more than 334 miles of trails. The county’s vastly diverse park system includes waterfront parks, a working farm, historic sites, rec centers, golf courses, community gardens, nature centers, water parks, amusements and thousands of classes, camps, concerts and events serving millions of park-goers each year. Cole has served as the executive director of the Park Authority since fall 2021.

“The Class of 2023 is a great addition to the Academy,” said President Janet Bartnik with the Prince William County Department of Parks and Recreation. “The Academy is honored to induct Jai Cole into its ranks. The Academy represents a diverse group of professionals and educators – all with superior career experience and a dedication to improving the quality of life through the provision of high-quality parks and recreation opportunities. We welcome our distinguished class of 2023 Fellows.”

About the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration

Established in 1980, the Academy was formed to advance knowledge related to the administration of recreation and parks; to support and encourage scholarly efforts by both practitioners and educators to enhance the practice of park and recreation administration; to promote broader public understanding of the importance of parks and recreation to the public good; and to conduct research, publish scholarly papers and/or sponsor seminars related to the advancement of park and recreation administration. For more information about the Academy, visit the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration website.

The Fairfax County Park Authority Board has approved the award of $15,763 in grant funding to help furnish and install central HVAC service in the Historic Forestville Schoolhouse located within Great Falls Grange Park in the Dranesville District. The applicant, Great Falls Grange Foundation, is contributing matching funds to fulfill the required project budget of $31,526. Funds were awarded as part of the Mastenbrook Volunteer Matching Fund Grant program.

The Forestville Schoolhouse, originally constructed in 1890, is leased by the Great Falls Grange Foundation under an agreement with the Park Authority. The building serves as a community center and rentable space for meetings, classes and private events. Lack of air conditioning has made the schoolhouse difficult to utilize between May and September as the weather warms up.

After significant review, the installation of a central heating, ventilation and air conditioning system will have the most favorable aesthetic impact to the historic schoolhouse. The project will include the installation of central HVAC equipment and the removal of heat strips and replacing them with wood baseboards to match the style already in the schoolhouse. Work is expected to be completed by spring 2024.

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 $15.8 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.

Two of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s off-leash dog parks were named among the region’s best in a popular vote among readers of Northern Virginia Magazine. The Baron Cameron and South Run dog parks made the list of “10 Best Dog Parks in Northern Virginia 2023” published in the magazine’s October issue, which hit newsstands Sept. 22.

The Baron Cameron dog park is located at 11300 Baron Cameron Ave. in Reston and can accommodate 28 large dogs and seven small dogs in separate areas. The South Run dog park is located at 7550 Reservation Drive in Springfield and can accommodate up to 85 dogs. Both parks were originally established in 2001 and are among the first dog parks established in Fairfax County.

Park Authority off-leash dog parks offer owners of well-socialized canines who enjoy a good run and the presence of other dogs and people. The Park Authority maintains 11 dog parks countywide. Details about off-leash dog parks, including locations, hours, and rules can be found on the Off-Leash dog Parks website.

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

Looking for a sweet way to kick off your fall season? Look no further than our Cider Making class at Colvin Run Mill!

Grab up to 10 of your closest friends and head on over for a classic cider making adventure that's bound to make your autumn unforgettable. All you need to bring are 100 apples and some sealable containers – we'll provide the rest! Using a vintage press, you'll embark on a journey to create the most delicious cider you've ever tasted. And the best part? You get to take home approximately 2 gallons of your homemade cider to share and savor with your friends. It's a sip of autumn magic you won't want to miss!

Saturdays and Sundays throughout October are your passport to cider making bliss, and the cost is just $60. There are several time slots to suit your schedule, so whether you're an early bird or prefer the afternoon glow, we've got you covered. Don't miss this chance to embrace the essence of fall and create cherished memories.

Register for Cider Making

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

UPDATE, Oct. 13: The Skate the Wake event has been postponed due to inclement weather. Skate the Wake will be held on Sunday, Oct. 15 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Join the fun at Skate the Wake on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Skateboarders, skaters, bikers and spectators alike can enjoy an exciting event with music and hands-on activities at the upgraded Wakefield Skate Park in Annandale. It’s not a hobby, it’s an attitude!

Break out your wheels to pick up some new skateboarding tricks and show off your best skateboarding skills for the chance to win new gear during the Best Trick Contest. Meet and get an autograph from Mimi Knoop, five-time X-Games medalist and former coach of the USA Skateboarding team. Listen to music throughout the event from DJ Derran Eaddy, founder of Solstik Music. Everyone is encouraged to attend the event wearing their best, family-friendly costumes.

Skateboarders of all abilities can learn something new in the Learning Zone between 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. Professionals from Sushi Skate Co. and experienced skateboarders from the George Mason University Skate Club will teach new tricks and techniques to all levels. Skateboarders — beginner, intermediate and advanced — are invited to sign up on site for the Best Trick Contest that takes place from noon to 2 p.m. Winners in each category will receive a custom skateboard deck from Sushi Skate Co. The contest will be judged by professionals from Sushi Skate, as well as celebrity judges Mimi Knoop and Spike Mendelsohn (“Top Chef” competitor and local restaurateur). Anyone under the age of 18 will be required to wear a helmet while skating.

Attendees will have the opportunity to put their artistic skills to the test by trying their hand at graffiti on the Wakefield skate shack. Visit with the Fairfax County Park Authority — visit the booth to get temporary tattoos and make friendship bracelets and stop in the sensory-friendly tent.

Skate the Wake will be held, weather permitting, at the Wakefield Skate Park located at 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale, Virginia. For more information, visit the Wakefield Skate Park website.

Gather your crew and Skate the Wake on Oct. 14! For more information, visit the Skate the Wake webpage.

This event is presented by the Fairfax County Park Authority and sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation. In-kind donations are being provided by American Boy and Sushi Skate.

View the Skate the Wake flyer

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.

UPDATE, Oct. 13: Due to cloud cover and rain expected on Saturday, Oct. 14, scheduled eclipse viewing events at Historic Huntley and Sully Historic Site have been canceled. Check out the Astronomy webpage for other ways to watch the eclipse. 

This fall, an annular eclipse, also known as a "ring of fire" eclipse, will take place on Oct. 14. The annular eclipse takes place when the moon is at its farthest point from Earth and so it appears smaller than the sun and does not completely cover the sun leaving a ring around the edge.

The Fairfax County Park Authority has prepared for extraordinary eclipse viewings throughout the county. Join our experts to view the partial annular solar eclipse. At noon, watch as the moon partially eclipses the sun as they travel across the sky. A limited number of eclipse viewing glasses and sun spotting scopes will be available to view the eclipse.

As we await the eclipse and after it has passed, enjoy various related games, activities and demonstrations. Participants should bring portable chairs and blankets.

Here are some programs to watch the eclipse. 

• Partial Solar Eclipse Celebration, Saturday, Oct. 14, noon to 2 p.m. at Burke Lake Park (7315 Ox Road, Fairfax Station) or Sully Historic Site (3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly). Cost $10.
• Safely See the Partial Eclipse, Saturday, Oct.14, 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Historic Huntley, located at 6918 Harrison Lane, Alexandria. Cost $10.

Visit the Astronomy website for more information.

Register for eclipse viewing programs

Get ready for a spine-chilling, fun-filled Halloween season in Fairfax County Parks! Our fantastic lineup of Halloween programs and events are designed to delight all ages. Whether you’re looking for ghostly mini golf, tricks and treats, or family-friendly ways to show your favorite costume, we have events for all ghosts and goblins!

Halloween on the Farm

Oct. 27-28 at Frying Pan Farm Park

Celebrate Halloween and trick-or-treat on the farm! Enjoy farm animals, play games and make crafts. The program runs in one-hour time slots and costs $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

Goblin Golf

Oct. 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 at Burke Lake Park

Halloween arrives early at the Burke Lake Park mini golf course. Enjoy a festive-themed experience with Halloween treats included. Our ghosts and goblins will be appearing throughout the day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Bring a date, a friend or the whole family. This mini golf experience is fun for everyone! Buy your tickets before they sell out! Cost is $10.

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

Register for Goblin Golf

Ghost Town

Oct. 28-29 at Burke Lake Park

Embark on an unforgettable Halloween adventure at Ghost Town in Burke Lake Park. Secure your spot by grabbing $15 per person tickets until Oct. 26, and brace for a spooktacular experience, complete with Goblin Golf, carousel rides, Train journeys, pumpkin painting, a bounce house and the thrilling Trick-or-Treat House. Don't miss out — get your tickets and join us for a day of festive fun that's bound to sell out! Trick-or-treaters of all ages are warmly welcomed.

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

Register for Ghost Town

Haunted Mini Golf

Oct. 28-29 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Oak Marr Rec Center

Welcoming all werewolves, vampires and goblins (and their families) for a fun night of Haunted Mini Golf at Oak Marr Rec Center. Wear your favorite costume for a haunted good time! Play mini golf, Trick-or-treat and win various goodies at every hole. Cost $12 per person.

Oak Marr Rec Center is located at 3200 Jermantown, Road, Oakton. For more information, visit the Oak Marr Rec Center website or call 703-281-6501.

Register for Haunted Mini Golf

Halloween Bash

Oct. 28 at South Run Rec Center

Celebrate the season and get moving at the South Run Rec Center Halloween Bash. This event features the Monter Mash 5K Dash, Halloween Fun Run 1-Mile, and Spooktacular Tiny Tot Trot with moon bounce and obstacle course for ages 2-4!

South Run Rec Center is located at 7550 Reservation Drive, Springfield. For more information, visit the South Run Rec Center website or call 703-866-0566.

Register for Halloween Bash

Halloween Costume Family Skate and Dance Night

Oct. 28 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Franconia Rec Center

No tricks, just treats at this Halloween-themed Family Skate and Dance Night! Dress in your best costume for a spooktacular time at Franconia Rec Center. Skate to some of your favorite Halloween tunes by a live DJ. Grab candy, popcorn and other refreshments; enjoy seasonal decorations; and float across the floor to some festive tunes. Tickets $10 in advance and $15 the day of the event.

Franconia Rec Center is located at 6601 Telegraph Road, Franconia. For more information, visit the Franconia Rec Center website or call 703-922-9841.

Register for Halloween Costume Family Skate and Dance Night

The Park Authority Board was presented with the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 Proposed Budget Requests at a meeting of the board’s Budget Committee on Sept. 27. The presentation included the results of an initial round of public comment based on an early draft of proposed priorities released on Sept. 15. The most recent version includes proposed General Fund Budget requests of just over $8 million to fund key park priorities, including equity initiatives, safety, forestry operations, maintenance and capital equipment.

The presentation and a recording of the discussion that took place is available on the Board and Committee Meetings webpage.

The Park Authority welcomes public comment on the FY 2025 budget proposals and will receive all comments submitted on or before 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 20. Comments may be submitted via email at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov. Comments received will be shared with members of the Park Authority Board for their consideration before the ratification of the proposed budget.

A vote to endorse and submit the proposed budget is anticipated at the Oct. 25 meeting of the Park Authority Board. Once endorsed, the proposed budget will be submitted to the Fairfax County Department of Management and Budget to be considered as part of the FY 2025 budgetary process.

All budgetary decisions relative to the allocation of funds from the Fairfax County General Fund to support Park Authority initiatives rest with the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, not the Park Authority Board. Presently, the Park Authority receives roughly 35% of its operating budget from the county’s General Fund – monies generated through collection of real estate tax. The remaining funds for park operations are generated through the assessment of fees for various programs, services and amenities.

For additional information about the Park Authority’s proposed budget, visit the Publications, Plans and Budget website; or contact the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Celebrate the fall season with Fairfax County Park Authority. As the weather cools and the leaves change color, head outside to enjoy events big and small.

Family Fall Festival

Saturday, Sept. 23, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Green Spring Gardens

Come enjoy the gardens among friends! This annual festival includes a wide variety of family activities, plant sales, silent auction, music and more!

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

View the Family Fall Festival flyer

Parktober Fest

Saturday, Oct. 7, noon to 5 p.m., at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

The whole family is invited to a celebration at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park that is becoming a community tradition. Join friends to shop local from artists and artisans, makers and bakers. Enjoy delicious food and drink from Ono Brewing Co. and DC Steakholders.

Ellanor C. Lawrence Park is located at 5049 Walney Road, Chantilly. Visit the Ellanor C. Lawrence Park website for more information or call 703-631-0013.

Farm Harvest Days and Carnival

Oct. 13 - 15, at Frying Pan Farm Park

Have fun on the farm and bring the whole family to Frying Pan Farm Park for the Farm Harvest Days and Carnival. Enjoy Big Truck Night on Oct. 13; watch the cider press in action, milk a cow, shell corn, peel apples and play old-fashion games on Oct. 14-15; and enjoy food, games and rides at the carnival all weekend long! Admission is free; carnival ride tickets are available for purchase.

Purchase carnival ride tickets

Frying Pan Farm Park is located at 2709 West Ox Road, Herndon. Visit the Frying Pan Farm Park website or call 703-437-9101 for more information.

Solar Eclipse Extravaganza

Saturday, Oct. 14, at multiple locations

Join our experts to view the partial annular solar eclipse. At noon, watch as the moon partially eclipses the sun as they both travel across the sky. A limited number of eclipse viewing glasses and sun spotting scopes will be available to view the eclipse. As we await the eclipse and after it has passed, enjoy various themed games, activities and demonstrations.

• Partial Solar Eclipse Celebration, noon to 2 p.m., at Burke Lake Park
• Partial Solar Eclipse Celebration, noon to 2 p.m., at Sully Historic Site
• Safely See the Partial Eclipse, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at Historic Huntley

Visit the Astronomy website for more information. 

Register for eclipse viewing programs

Skate the Wake

Saturday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Wakefield Skate Park

Enjoy a day filled with skating, music and all-around fun at Skate the Wake. Come dressed in your best Halloween costume and enjoy food, music, vendors, and fun activities. Skateboarders are invited to bring their gear to learn new tricks from the professionals in the Learning Zone and compete in the Best Trick Contest.

Visit Skate the Wake webpage for more information.

Wakefied Skate Park is located at 8100 Braddock Road, Annandale. For more information, visit the Wakefield Skate Park website.

Whatever your event "flavor," the Park Authority has you covered this season!