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| Park Authority Honors 2026 Outstanding Volunteers |  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:
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. |
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| Experience the Power of Parks in Fairfax County During Park and Recreation Month |  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 ParksThe 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 DayPlaytime 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 WellnessThe 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. |
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| Arts in the Parks Cultural Heritage Nights Showcase Rich Global Cultures |  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:
"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. |
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| New Directors Join Fairfax County Park Foundation Board | 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. |
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| Fairfax County’s First-Ever Drone Light Show Rescheduled for Sunday, June 28, at Lake Fairfax Park | 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 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
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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. |
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| Upcoming Public Engagement Opportunity at Ash Grove Historic House |  The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to an open house at the Ash Grove Historic House on Saturday, July 11, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is part of the Resident Curator Program’s ongoing efforts to provide public access to Fairfax County’s historic properties and highlight the work being done to preserve and restore these important cultural resources. The resident curator will be on site throughout the event to welcome visitors, share information about the property and discuss ongoing rehabilitation efforts at the site. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the grounds and learn more about the history and continued preservation of Ash Grove. Due to limited onsite parking, a shuttle bus service will be provided from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Members of the public should park at Westbriar Elementary School, located at 1741 Pine Valley Drive in Vienna, where a Fastran shuttle will transport visitors to the historic site. The shuttle will run between the school and Ash Grove on the half hour. The last return trip from Ash Grove to Westbriar Elementary will depart at 1 p.m. Ash Grove is one of the few surviving 18th-century Virginia houses and was built by the Fairfax family. Thomas Fairfax constructed the original portion of the house in 1790, and the family occupied the property until 1847. The house sits on approximately one acre of land between the densely wooded Old Courthouse Spring Branch stream valley and the Westwood Village townhouse subdivision. It is located on the edge of Tysons Corner and approximately two-thirds of a mile from the Spring Hill Metro Station. The property includes several historic structures, including the main house, an 18th-century brick kitchen and a smokehouse. Ash Grove is a stately Federal-style, 2.5-story center-hall house with approximately 4,200 square feet of finished space. A serious fire in 1960 threatened the survival of the house; however, many original architectural elements had previously been removed, and a set of Historic American Buildings Survey (HABS) drawings and photographs from the 1930s proved instrumental in guiding its restoration. Some of the original wood flooring still bears visible charring from the fire, serving as a reminder of the building’s layered history. The Resident Curator Program provides a unique opportunity for individuals, nonprofit and for-profit organizations to secure long-term lease agreements to live rent-free in historic properties located in beautiful public park settings. In return, curators agree to invest in the rehabilitation of these properties to ensure that the history of Fairfax County is preserved for future generations to experience. For additional information visit the Resident Curator Program website. You may also contact Resident Curator Program manager, Stephanie Langton at 703-324-8791 or stephanie.langton@fairfaxcounty.gov. |
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| Golf Fairfax App Gets a Glow Up |  Golf Fairfax is excited to announce a major update to its free mobile app, featuring a refreshed design and powerful new tools that help golfers track their game, navigate the course and stay connected throughout every round. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play, the updated app delivers an even more seamless experience both on and off the course. The Golf Fairfax App continues to offer all the features golfers already know and love. With just a few taps golfers can still:
The latest adds even more ways to enhance your round. Golfers can now:
"Our refreshed mobile app combines smart technology with effortless usability, giving golfers a smoother, faster and more engaging way to interact with our courses — anytime, anywhere." said Golf Division Director Ryan Carmen. With approximately 10,000 downloads since its launch, the Golf Fairfax app has become an essential resource for golfers across the county. This latest update reflects Golf Fairfax's ongoing commitment to providing innovative tools and convenient technology that enhance the customer experience. Golfers can download the app or update to the latest version today by visiting the Golf Fairfax website. |
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| Sounds of Summer: Local Concerts in Fairfax County |  Create your own summer soundtrack with the Summer Entertainment Series. Attend free, live concerts taking place at locations all around Fairfax through August. Award-winning entertainers take the stage in this series that is set to enrich the community and promote togetherness in Fairfax County. "Fairfax County Park Authority, Fairfax County Park Foundation, Fairfax County Board of Supervisors and our other partners and supporters are excited to bring the Summer Entertainment Series back to the Fairfax County community," says Shera White, Fairfax County Park Authority events and volunteer manager. "Our free concerts create a sense of belonging and community pride. We can’t wait to see you out in our parks to connect, relax and enjoy the sounds of summer." This season consists of 124 performances at 20 venues. Mark your calendar for some incredible performances including:
Whatever your favorite genre — R&B, classic rock, classical and jazz, blues, choral, pop, rock ‘n’ roll, ska/soul, Latin Rock, country and best hits — find it in the parks this summer. Performances take place outdoors, so be sure to pack a picnic, blankets and lawn chairs to settle in for an unforgettable night. Find the full list of performances and the full list of locations by visiting the Summer Entertainment Series website. All performances are held outdoors. Lawn chairs are welcome. 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 the 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 FoundationThe 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. |
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| Refresh, Relax, Repeat at Outdoor Water Parks and Splash Pads: Hours and Sensory Friendly Times |  As the summer weather heats up, cool off at Fairfax County Park Authority’s water parks and splash pads. Spend the day cooling off and enjoy water play features sure to add enjoyment to the season: The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole (1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston): Twist and splash your way through slides, sprays and the lazy river. Open weekends; daily hours begin June 20. Enjoy an extra hour on weekends with the park opening at 10 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays, June 20 to Aug. 23. Bonus: Choose from a variety of spaces to rent — from "Funbrellas" to cabanas to bungalows — at this popular destination. Secure your spot in the shade and a place for your group to enjoy the park this summer. Get your rental early. Please note that rental fees do not include admission, so be sure to get your tickets in advance. Our Special Harbor Spray Park (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria): An inclusive splash zone perfect for kids of all abilities. Open weekends; open daily June 20 through Aug. 23. Martin Luther King Jr. Park Pool (8115 Fordson Road, Alexandria): A community pool featuring a brand-new splashpad for all ages. Come out to swim and play all summer at this community gem. Open weekends; open daily (except Tuesdays) June 20-Aug. 23. Find park hours, seasonal openings and operating schedules by visiting the Operational Hours website. The Park Authority also welcomes individuals and families who need spaces with reduced sensory input to attend a sensory friendly time at our water parks. Experience limited capacity, reduced sounds with louder water features turned off, and staff trained to respond to children with special needs. Come out to enjoy the following sensory friendly hours this summer. Regular entry fees apply. The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole
Cub Run Rec Center Indoor Water Park
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| Enjoy a Summer of Wonder with Arts in the Parks |  Prepare to be enchanted by performances that spark the imagination of children across Fairfax County at Arts in the Parks. Turn off the screens and head into the parks this summer to enjoy this series of free, family-friendly shows that start on June 24. As part of the Summer Entertainment Series, Arts in the Parks introduces children to live entertainment in a relaxed, kid-friendly setting and builds their connection to the parks. Talented Arts in the Parks entertainers use song, dance, storytelling, comedy, magic, science and puppetry to captivate young audiences and capture the hearts of all ages. Performers often make the shows interactive in ways that children will never forget — inviting the audience to dance, sing or even join them on stage. Fairfax County Park Authority is offering these free shows throughout the summer at nine different locations, including four new locations for 2026 at Lorton Community Center, The Rooftop Park Space at Springfield Garage, Spring Hill Rec Center and Strawberry Park at Mosaic District. Check out the full suite by visiting the of Arts in the Parks webpage. In addition to the Cultural Arts in the Parks -- featuring rhythms from around the globe at Ossian Hall Park. The 2026 Arts in the Parks lineup includes:
All performances are held outdoors. Lawn chairs are welcome. 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. |
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