Park Authority

Get ready to turn up the heat with exciting golf tournaments happening across Golf Fairfax this July!

Celebrate the season and light up the greens at two Red, White and Blue Tournaments:

• Burke Lake Golf Center (Saturday, July 5 at 8 a.m.): Teams of two, ages 7 and up, will take on 18 holes in a fun scramble format—switching between red, white and blue tees throughout the round. Come decked out in your most festive red, white and blue for a chance to win Best Dressed Golfer (team)! Awards for first, second and third place teams, plus closest to the pin. Entry is $90 per team and includes lunch, complimentary range balls and a pushcart.
• Pinecrest Golf Course (Sunday, July 13, at 8 a.m.): Grab a partner and join the 9-hole scramble, playing from different tees every hole. Three divisions available: adults 18+, adult/junior 7–12, and adult/junior 13–17. Prizes for all divisions and closest to the pin. Celebrate after the round with lunch and the awards ceremony. Entry is $110 per team and includes lunch and carts. Rain date: July 20.

The Junior Club Championship tees off Saturday, July 12 at 8 a.m. at Oakmont Golf Center. Golfers 17 and under will play a 9-hole stroke play tournament in age-based divisions (12 and under and 13–17). Winners receive awards for first, second and closest to the pin, with the lowest overall score taking home the Junior Club Champion title. Entry is $30. Rain date: July 19.

Also, on July 12 at 9 a.m., test your strategy at the Modified Stableford tournament at Jefferson Golf Course. Open to golfers 18 and older, this 9-hole stroke play event uses a points-based system, rewarding players for under-par scores (birdies, eagles, etc.) and deducting for over-par scores (bogeys and worse). The golfer with the highest point total wins! Entry is $40. Rain date: July 19.

For more information about all upcoming golf events and to register for these summer tournaments, visit the Golf website.

At its meeting on May 28, the Fairfax County Park Authority Board approved a resolution honoring 20 individuals as 2025 Outstanding Volunteers. These peer-nominated individuals were recognized for their dedication to their community and their invaluable service to the Fairfax County park system:

• Tina Barber, South Run Rec Center, Landscaper
• Margaret Bauman, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Park Educator
• Steve Bezirganian, Providence Rec Center, General Support
• Tengfei (Elio) Cui, Cub Run Rec Center, Front Desk
• Eric DeTurk, Kings Park, Park Volunteer Team (PVT) Lead
• Dan Dyke, Colvin Run Mill, Maintenance Support/Docent
• David Eckhardt, Laurel Hill Golf Club, Course Starter
• Mary Gerrity, Twin Lakes Golf Course, Course Starter
• Nancy Herrman, George Washington Rec Center, Landscaper
• Dana Lee, Cultural Resources, Archaeological Collections
• George Lee, Franconia Rec Center, Front Desk/Special Events
• Frank Lewis, Audrey Moore Rec Center, Pottery Monitor
• Jean Lockhart, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, Front Desk
• Lisa Marcantonio, Riverbend Park, Front Desk
• Steve Olson, Oakmont Rec Center, Maintenance/Landscaping Support
• Ashwin Patel, Spring Hill Rec Center, Front Desk
• Lewis Roth, Spring Hill Rec Center, Adapted Aquatics
• Elizabeth Train, Huntley Meadows Park, Roving Naturalist/General Support
• Carol Wolter, McLean Parks (Multiple Locations), Invasive Management Area Site Lead
• Emily Yi, Hidden Pond Nature Center, Youth Program Support

More than 10,000 volunteers contributed to the operation, preservation and conservation of Fairfax County parks in Fiscal Year 2025. They contributed 116,005 hours of volunteer service and their work is valued at over $3.88 million. The Park Authority could not function without the support and commitment of our volunteer force.

“Our parks meet the highest standard of beauty, safety, and accessibility in large part due to our volunteers. Their skill and passion, whether repairing trails, planting trees, or educating visitors, elevate every acre, every day,” said Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole.

The Park Authority, joined by Fairfax County Board of Supervisors Chairman Jeff McKay, will honor all of its amazing volunteers with a special evening of music and celebration at the upcoming Volunteer Appreciation Night taking place on Thursday, July 10, as part of the Government Center’s Evenings on the Ellipse Summer Concert Series. The evening will kick off at 5:15 p.m. with a welcome and words of appreciation for our Outstanding Volunteers from Chairman McKay and Jai Cole. Following the opening remarks, enjoy a memorable performance by Pablo Perez El Alcalde de La Salsa.

The Evenings on the Ellipse series takes place on the lawn in the ellipse area directly behind the Government Center (12000 Government Center Parkway, 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. Visit the Summer Entertainment Series webpage for more information on performances. 

The Fairfax County Park Authority will host a public meeting to present a revised proposal for a pavilion at Green Spring Gardens. The meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 30, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the multipurpose room of the Horticultural Center at 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria.

Earlier this year, the Park Authority introduced an initial pavilion concept through a public meeting and a 30-day comment period. Community feedback played a vital role in shaping the updated design. At the upcoming meeting, the project team will present the revised pavilion concept, answer questions and gather additional feedback from attendees.

Those unable to attend in person can participate via PublicInput. The online comment period will open at 5 p.m. on July 30 and remain open through 5 p.m. on Aug. 30.

The proposed pavilion is a key feature of the approved Green Spring Gardens Master Plan Revision. Designed to support outdoor education and recreation, the structure would be ADA-compliant and include seating, flexible program space, and shelter from the elements.

This project is a collaboration between the Park Authority and the Friends of Green Spring (FROGS), reflecting a shared commitment to inclusive, sustainable community spaces.

To learn more about the project or submit comments beginning July 30, visit the PublicInput project webpage.

For additional information, contact the Public Information Office at ParkMail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Sully Historic Site has been awarded a $250,000 Virginia 250 Preservation Fund Grant administered by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources and the Virginia 250 Fund. This funding, secured through the Fairfax County Park Foundation, supports local initiatives that commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.

The grant will support the preservation, interpretation and accessibility improvements at the site.

The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that Sully Historic Site has been selected as a recipient of a Virginia 250 Preservation Fund Grant administered by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources and the Virginia 250 Fund. The $250,000 award supports community programs commemorating the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution and the founding of the United States.

Sully Historic Site, a National Register of Historic Places, was one of 35 projects awarded statewide, with total grants exceeding $19.9 million as part of the Virginia 250 Preservation Fund Grant Program.

The Sully Historic Site updates planning is underway. For more information about Virginia 250 and the full list of grant recipients, visit va250.org

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.

Don’t miss one of the area's most anticipated summer events! Join the Fairfax County Park Authority at Lake Fairfax Park on Saturday, June 28, for a full day of live entertainment, food trucks and family fun—capped off by a dazzling fireworks display.

Beat the crowd and reserve your spot early. Advance parking passes are $20 per vehicle and sell quickly. Day-of parking is $25, cash or credit.

Event Highlights

• Fireworks begin shortly after 9 p.m.
• Live music and entertainment all day.
• Food trucks open from noon to 9 p.m.
• The Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole open 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (separate admission required)

Purchase Water Mine tickets

Picnic areas are first-come, first-served. To avoid gate closures and secure a great viewing spot, plan to arrive by 8 p.m. The park will close to new entries around 8:45 p.m.

Parking Details

• $20 advance vehicle parking
• $25 vehicle parking at the gate
• Bicyclists and pedestrians enter free

Purchase Parking for Lake Fairfax Fireworks

Lake Fairfax Park is located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive, Reston. For questions, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-8700.

The Fourth of July fireworks show 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 proudly celebrated the soft reopening of the Mount Vernon Rec Center on Monday morning, June 9, with a vibrant welcome from the community and local leaders. Located at 2017 Belle View Blvd. in Alexandria, the renovated recreation facility opened its doors at 7 a.m., with eager community members lining up early to be among the first to step inside and explore the brand-new center.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Mount Vernon District Supervisor Dan Storck, Mount Vernon District Representative to the Park Authority Board Linwood Gorham, Park Authority Executive Director Jai Cole, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services Director Christopher Herrington, as well as members of the FCPA leadership team, Mount Vernon Rec Center project team, and dedicated facility staff.

The newly expanded Rec Center now features a stunning two-story fitness center, a second NHL-sized ice rink, a climbing wall and updated group fitness spaces. To accommodate ongoing renovations, the reopening is being staged in phases, beginning this week with access to the Fitness Center and ice rinks.

Additional features, including summer camps, Parktakes classes, and drop-in group fitness classes, will be available on Monday, June 16. Drop-in child care and the new two-story climbing wall will open later this month. The pool, natatorium, spa and sauna are still under renovation and are expected to open later this summer.

Mount Vernon Rec Center is truly a space where community, wellness, and opportunity intersect. "This is more than just a building, it’s a cornerstone of this community," Cole said. "It’s a place where people of all ages come together to connect, grow and support one another in reaching their health and wellness goals. We are so proud to bring this revitalized space back to the Mount Vernon community."

The upgraded Fitness Center includes a wide range of equipment, from stair climbers and recumbent bikes to Pilates reformers and free weights. Group fitness classes will soon begin in four new studio classrooms, offering yoga, Pilates, tai chi, Zumba and more.

The ice arena continues its legacy of cultivating skating excellence with two full-size rinks, enhanced support facilities, and public programs including open skate, training and private events.

Modified hours will remain in effect until July 6:

• Monday–Friday: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Saturday: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
• Sunday: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Full operating hours will resume on Monday, July 7.

Memberships are now available at a special in-person discount for new members. Visitors are encouraged to stop by to explore their options and discover all that the revitalized Rec Center has to offer.

For more information about programs, reopening phases, and upcoming events, please visit the Mount Vernon Rec Center website or contact FCPARECenters@fairfaxcounty.gov.

The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin construction on the next phase of improvements to the Long Branch Stream Valley Trail, enhancing one of the county’s most popular recreational corridors. Work is expected to begin in late June or early July 2025.

This project focuses on improving the trail segment between Woodland Way and Wakefield Chapel Road, following the successful completion of Phase 1 in 2021, which upgraded the trail from Olley Lane to Woodland Way. Phase 2 will include paving the existing gravel trail and installing new stormwater culverts to support long-term durability and environmental management.

Tibbs Paving, the contractor for the project, will be mobilizing on site in early summer. Active construction is expected to continue through July, with completion anticipated by the end of summer 2025, weather permitting.

Residents and park users may experience occasional construction traffic entering and exiting the area via Woodland Way and Wakefield Chapel Road. All construction activity will comply with the Fairfax County Noise Ordinance, which permits work from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, with potential work on weekends and holidays between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m., as needed.

The project aims to replace approximately 5,500 linear feet of trail with new asphalt and concrete surfaces, as well as upgrade failed stormwater pipes. These improvements will enhance trail accessibility, safety, and usability for pedestrians and cyclists.

Funding for this phase of the project will be provided by the 2020 Park Bond. The Fairfax County Park Authority appreciates the community’s continued support and patience as it works to enhance park infrastructure across the county.

For more information, visit the Long Branch Stream Valley webpage. Questions about this project can be directed to the Public Information Office at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

Kick off your Independence Day celebrations with fireworks, food and family fun at Lake Fairfax Park on Saturday, June 28. The Fairfax County Park Authority invites residents and visitors to enjoy a full day of festivities capped off by a spectacular fireworks show at one of the county’s most beloved parks.

The celebration begins at noon, giving guests plenty of time to explore the park and grab a spot before the fireworks light up the night sky. Arrive early to enjoy a full lineup of live entertainment, food trucks and activities for all ages.

Fireworks will begin shortly after 9 p.m. Food trucks are available from noon to 9 p.m. There will be live performances throughout the day. The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole will be open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and requires separate admission. 

Purchase Water Mine Tickets

All picnic areas are first-come, first-served, and visitors are encouraged to arrive by 8 p.m. to secure a good viewing spot. The park will close to new arrivals at approximately 8:45 p.m.

Parking is $20 per vehicle when you purchase in advance; it will be $25 per vehicle at the gate on the day of the event. Parking fees begin at 10 a.m. Bicyclists and pedestrians enter free. 

Purchase Event Parking

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.

For questions, contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov or call 703-324-8700. 

The Fourth of July fireworks show 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.

Get ready to run, jog or stroll your way through summer at the Summer Sprint in the Park, a family-friendly 5K and 1-mile fun run on Saturday, June 28, at Lake Fairfax Park, located at 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive in Reston.

The race begins at 9 a.m., with packet pickup from 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. This all-ages event is perfect for seasoned runners and first-time participants alike, offering a scenic course that winds through grass, trails and paved roads.

Registration is just $5 per runner or $10 per family, making it an affordable way for the whole family to get active outdoors. The top three male and female finishers in the 5K will receive prizes. All runners will be treated to water and post-race refreshments.

The Summer Sprint is co-sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority, the Fairfax County Park Foundation and Reston Runners. It supports community wellness and recreational access across the county.

Spots are limited, so sign up today and join us for a morning of fitness, fun and fresh air!

Register for Summer Sprint in the Park

View the Summer Sprint in the Park flyer

As the summer season heats up, the Fairfax County Park Authority reminds visitors to Scott’s Run Nature Preserve to enjoy the area responsibly and follow all park regulations to protect the environment, ensure public safety and preserve this natural space for everyone.

Scott’s Run, located in McLean, is a popular hiking and nature destination that attracts thousands of visitors each summer. Due to its ecological sensitivity and limited capacity, it’s essential that all park users remain mindful of the preserve’s rules.

Park Rules and Safety Reminders

• No picnics or coolers are allowed in the park. This includes grills, alcohol, and glass containers. Bags will be checked at trailheads, and enforcement will be increased near the waterfall area. For designated picnic areas, visit the Picnic website.
• Swimming, wading and boating are strictly prohibited. Scott’s Run creek is adjacent to a large sewage pipe. Fast-moving currents, slippery rocks and rising water levels create hazardous conditions. In addition, entering the water disrupts fragile habitats. For safe water recreation, consider visiting one of our spray grounds or water parks.
• Parking is only permitted in the designated lot. Parking is limited to 50 vehicles, and towing will be enforced for cars parked along roadways or in nearby neighborhoods.
• All dogs must be leashed at all times. For off-leash options, check out one of Fairfax County’s many dog parks.
• The park closes at dark.
• All park rules are enforced by security staff.

Scott’s Run Nature Preserve is located at 7400 Georgetown Pike, McLean. For more details, visit the Scott’s Run Nature Preserve website or call 703-759-9018.