Park Authority

CONTACT INFORMATION: Open during regular business hours 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday - Friday
703-324-8700 TTY 711
12055 Government Center Pkwy.
Fairfax, Virginia 22035
Jai Cole
Executive Director
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Get Linked In With the New Golf Fairfax Mobile App

Phone appThe Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the launch of the Golf Fairfax App, a new mobile tool designed to make your time on the course even better. Now available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play, this innovative app powered by Gallus Golf brings convenient access to a suite of golfer-focused features to your fingertips.

Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just getting into the swing of things, the Golf Fairfax App is your ultimate on-course companion. With just a few taps, you can:

  • Book tee times quickly and easily
  • Access GPS-enabled course maps and driving range GPS
  • Keep score with an interactive digital scorecard
  • Get instant alerts through Noteefy, our tee time waitlist assistant
  • Stay linked in with Golf Fairfax news, upcoming tournaments, events and exclusive offers

"The Golf Fairfax app is all about enhancing the player experience," Division Director Ryan Carmen said. "From booking tee times to staying connected with our courses, this tool makes it easier than ever for golfers to focus on what they enjoy most, playing the game."

This new app reflects the Park Authority’s continued commitment to embracing smart technology and meeting the expectations of today’s golfers by offering greater convenience, real-time updates and seamless access to quality golf experiences across the county.

Ready to download? Visit the Golf Fairfax website to get started and access direct links and QR codes for both app stores.

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Mount Vernon Rec Center in Fort Hunt Reopens June 9

Mount Vernon Rec Center  Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to welcome the community back to Mount Vernon Rec Center, located at 2017 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria, on Monday, June 9 at 7 a.m. The much anticipated reopening of this recreational hub brings many new amenities to the neighborhood, from its two-story Fitness Center to the addition of a second ice rink to the indoor arena and a climbing wall.

Providing use of this community resource as soon as possible, the Park Authority announces a staggered opening that starts with access to the Fitness Center and ice rinks. Summer camps, Parktakes classes and drop-in group fitness classes start on Monday, June 16. Drop-in child care and the climbing wall will begin operating at the Rec Center later in June. Currently the pool, natatorium, spa and sauna are closed while renovations are completed. These amenities are scheduled to open later this summer.

The upgraded and expanded Fitness Center features various types of cardio and strength equipment — from recumbent bikes and stair climbers to Pilates reformers to strength equipment and free weights. A variety of low- and high-impact drop-in group fitness classes (yoga, Pilates, tai chi, Zumba, Les Mills Bodypump) for all ages and levels will be hosted in four new studio classrooms.

The Rec Center’s new ice arena upholds the legacy of creating today’s and tomorrow’s hockey and skating champions. The arena features two National Hockey League-sized ice rinks, a skate rental area, skate sharpening services, team locker rooms and party rooms with skate-friendly flooring for events. Enjoy public skate sessions, sign up for skating classes and train and compete again here at Mount Vernon.

As the Mount Vernon Rec Center staff continues to work toward reopening at full capacity, the facility will operate under modified hours until July 6:

  • Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Sunday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Rec center hours will expand to normal rec center hours starting Monday, July 7.

It is easy to gain access to the new and improved facility with membership. New members are eligible for a discounted rate with an in-person purchase. Not sure if membership is right for you? Come by the Rec Center to discover all the admission options and explore everything the center has to offer.

Mount Vernon Rec Center provides many opportunities to conveniently gather, renew health and wellness goals, and maintain the rich community connections for which the Mount Vernon neighborhood is known. Have additional questions? Please contact us at FCPARECenters@fairfaxcounty.gov.

For the latest details about the facility and the grand reopening in late summer, visit the Mount Vernon Rec Center website.

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Fairfax County Park Authority Honors Juneteenth with Events Across the County

Juneteenth CelebrationThe Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to honor Juneteenth through a series of engaging events at multiple park locations, highlighting African American history, resilience and cultural contributions.

Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated remembrance of the end of slavery in the United States. Observed each year on June 19, it commemorates the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, were informed of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

In Fairfax County, the Park Authority recognizes Juneteenth by sharing stories of the African American men, women and children who shaped the region’s history through their labor, leadership, creativity and community.

Featured Events

Juneteenth Celebration at Sully Historic Site

Sully Historic Site, Thursday, June 19

Celebrate African American history through guided interpretive tours of original outbuildings and the first floor of the main house. Experience storytelling, music, children’s activities, quilt exhibits, touchable artifacts, interpretive displays, and a free health clinic. Food trucks will be available and picnic tables provided. Free admission.

Exploring Our Historic Meeting House and Grounds

Frying Pan Farm Park, Saturday, June 21

Explore the rich history of Frying Pan’s Meeting House, one of the oldest religious structures in Fairfax County. Staff and volunteers will offer informal tours of the building and grounds, highlighting the history of African Americans in the area. Free admission.

These events are part of the Park Authority’s ongoing commitment to telling inclusive stories and creating space for dialogue, learning and community connection.

For details and registration information, visit the Juneteenth website.

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Cruise Into History at the 50th Annual Father’s Day Antique Car Show at Sully Historic Site

Sully Antique CarsStart your Father’s Day with horsepower, history and hometown fun at the 50th Annual Father’s Day Antique Car Show on Sunday, June 15, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Sully Historic Site in Chantilly.

Presented by the Fairfax County Park Authority and the George Washington Chapter Inc., this golden anniversary event promises an unforgettable day for car lovers, families and anyone who enjoys a classic celebration.

Get ready to see hundreds of vintage vehicles, from turn-of-the-century rides to mid-century cruisers, all in one place. This year’s show features judged competitions and trophy awards, plus a variety of attractions and entertainment:

  • Car Corral
  • Live music
  • Food vendors
  • Specialty car displays
  • First-floor tours of the historic house
  • Auto, antique and craft flea market
  • New this year: Model A Hot Rod class
  • ATM available on site

Register Your Ride Today

Have a vintage beauty to show off? There's still time to join the lineup! Pre-register your vehicle by Wednesday, June 11 to secure your spot and be part of this milestone event.

Spaces are filling fast for show cars, the Car Corral and flea market vendors—register early to save and guarantee your place on the field. 

View the Antique Car Show flyer

Don’t Wait – Register Early and Save!

  • Advance Ticket Prices: Purchase by June 14 and save -- $12 Adult; $10 Senior; $8 Children (ages 5-15)
  • Day-Of Ticket Prices: $15 Adult; $12 Senior; $10 Children (ages 5-15)

Register for the Sully Antique Car Show

Whether you’re a longtime collector, a classic car admirer or just looking for a fun way to spend Father’s Day, Sully Historic Site is the place to be. With food, music, local vendors and family-friendly fun, it’s a celebration 50 years in the making.

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Fairways Fit for a Queen: Celebrate Women’s Golf Month with Golf Fairfax

Woman playing golfThis June, join us for a full lineup of events, tournaments and specials that celebrate and support women in golf. Score deals to help you play better and gear up in style, from the range to the fairway. Women golfers of all levels are invited to improve their game, make connections and be part of a growing and supportive women’s golf community.

Special offers include:

  • 25% off any size range bucket Monday–Friday (limit one per day) at Laurel Hill Golf Club
  • 10% off any single golf lesson taken in June at Greendale Golf Course
  • 20% off all women’s apparel at Laurel Hill, Oakmont, Jefferson, Pinecrest, Burke Lake and Twin Lakes courses

Special Events

Join the fun with Women on Course events hosted by Golf Fairfax. These events are designed to connect women through the game in a welcoming, social environment. Enjoy a variety of formats, including Sip & Swing clinics, on-course Play with a Pro experiences, and both 9- and 18-hole events. Whether you're new to golf or a seasoned player, there's something for everyone. View the full schedule of events at the Women & Golf Fairfax webpage.

"We want women to feel confident, welcomed and supported on the course," said Kara Spain, general manager at Twin Lakes Golf Course. "Women’s Golf Month is a great opportunity to meet new playing partners, improve your skills and enjoy everything Golf Fairfax has to offer."

Golf Fairfax is committed to creating exceptional golf experiences for women golfers of all skill levels through inclusive programs, engaging events and a supportive community. From learning the game to leveling up your skills, there’s a place for every golfer. For more information on activities and discounts for Women’s Golf Month, visit the Women & Golf webpage. 

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Jefferson District Park Tennis Court Renovations To Begin in June

tennis courtsThe Fairfax County Park Authority will be making improvements to tennis courts #2 and #5 at Jefferson District Park. Contractors will mobilize on site in early June, with work expected to begin on Saturday, June 7. The project will include crack repairs and resurfacing of the courts.

Courts #2 and #5 will be closed to the public during construction, but courts #7 and #8 will remain open. Weather pending, the work is expected to conclude by June 20.

Community members are encouraged to utilize the Park Amenity Locator to identify alternative courts to use during construction.

Renovations were made possible due to a grant from the United States Tennis Association/Mid-Atlantic Foundation that was received through the Fairfax County Park Foundation.

Jefferson District Park is located at 7900 Lee Highway in Falls Church. For more information, please email fcpaparkmaintenance@fairfaxcounty.gov.

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Celebrate National Trails Day on June 7 with Guided Hikes, Outdoor Fun, and 334 Miles of Adventure in Fairfax County

National Trails DayWith 334 miles of trails to explore, there's no better time to hit the trail than National Trails Day, coming up on Saturday, June 7. Whether you’re walking, running, biking or horseback riding, Fairfax County offers something for everyone – from forested natural and hard surface trails to scenic boardwalks and interpretive trails.

Looking to plan your next outing? The Trail Buddy App is the perfect companion to help you navigate the county’s extensive trail network. This free online tool lets you search by location, surface type and permitted uses, making it easy to find the right trail for your pace and preference -- whether it’s a quick lunchtime walk or a full-day adventure.

Fairfax County’s trails are for everyone. With accessible options, bike trails and nature-rich routes winding through parks, stream valleys and forests, residents and visitors alike are invited to reconnect with the outdoors and discover the everyday beauty that’s right in their own backyard.

As part of the national celebration, the Park Authority will host a National Trails Day event at Hidden Pond Nature Center, located at 8511 Greeley Blvd. in Springfield on June 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy guided hikes, hands-on nature activities and opportunities to learn about trail safety and etiquette. It’s a fun way to meet fellow trail lovers and kick off your summer adventures. All ages are welcome.

National Trails Day, established by the American Hiking Society in 1993, is an annual celebration designed to encourage trail use, stewardship and appreciation across the country. It’s the perfect moment to step outside, explore new places and experience the many physical and mental benefits of time spent in nature.

So, whether you're hitting a favorite trail or discovering a new one, celebrate National Trails Day your way – Fairfax County has hundreds of miles waiting to be explored.

For more information, visit the National Trails Day webpage or contact the Public Information Office at parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

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New Directors Join Fairfax County Park Foundation Board

The Fairfax County Park Foundation Board of Directors voted unanimously to accept the nominations of Ben Aiken, Paul Berry, Mark Buenavista, and Alyssa Keefe as board directors of the fundraising arm for the Fairfax County Park Authority at the Jan. 21, 2025 Park Foundation board meeting.

Fairfax County Park Foundation Directors
Clockwise from top left: Benjamin G. Aiken, Paul D. Berry, Mark A. Buenavista and Alyssa D. Keefe
The Park Authority Board confirmed these appointments at the May 14, 2025 Park Authority Board meeting. The new directors’ first term of service extends through June 20, 2028.

Benjamin G. Aiken, MPA, is a civic innovator and public sector leader with over 16 years of experience strengthening local government operations in Northern Virginia. As Deputy Director of Fairfax County's Department of Code Compliance, Aiken champions data-informed decision making and inclusive community engagement to enhance quality of life for all residents. His commitment to environmental stewardship and equitable access to community resources aligns with a belief that strong public spaces are essential to building vibrant, connected communities.

Paul D. Berry is a former public school teacher, World Bank and IADB alum, and now serves as Vice President at Aegis Mobile. He attended Brown University where he studied pure mathematics and later obtained graduate degrees from the University of Geneva, and the University of Chicago. Berry has a long history of public service, and in 2018 Gov. Ralph Northam appointed him to an advisory role in the Office of the Governor. The policy agenda Berry oversaw impacted nearly a million Virginians and addressed health, housing, education and economic needs throughout the state.

Mark A. Buenavista, AIA, AICP, CCM, is a planner and registered architect with the Fairfax County Department of Housing and Community Development, currently overseeing the department’s program to develop and finance affordable housing and community facilities serving households with low and moderate incomes. Buenavista holds a bachelor of science in architecture and a master of architecture from the University of Virginia, as well as a master of business administration from the Fox School of Business at Temple University.

Alyssa D. Keefe, MPP, serves as Senior Vice President of Policy and rejoined the Federation of American Hospitals in December 2024. She has held senior health policy positions at the American Hospital Association, Catholic Health Association of the United States and the National Coalition on Health Care. She holds a bachelor of science in public policy and speech communications from Syracuse University and a master of public policy from Georgetown University.

Gary W. Kirkbride, Senior Vice President, Dewberry (ret.) is recognized for FCPF board service spanning three terms through December 2025. He was instrumental in helping the Park Foundation initiate long-term investments and the FCPF Forever Fund to endow the greatest needs of future Fairfax County parks.

The Fairfax County Park Foundation 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. To learn more, visit the Park Foundation webpage or call 703-324-8532.

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Start Your Engines for the 50th Annual Father’s Day Antique Car Show at Sully Historic Site!

Sully Antique CarsCelebrate five decades of classic cars and family fun at the 50th Annual Father’s Day Antique Car Show on Sunday, June 15, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Sully Historic Site in Chantilly. Presented by the Fairfax County Park Authority and the George Washington Chapter, Inc., this milestone event is one of the largest and most beloved car shows in the region.

Hundreds of antique vehicles will be on display, with judged competitions and trophy awards throughout the day. Guests can enjoy a full lineup of activities and attractions, including:

  • Car Corral
  • Live music
  • Food vendors
  • Specialty car displays
  • First-floor tours of the historic house
  • Auto, antique and craft flea market
  • New this year: Model A Hot Rod class
  • ATM available on site

Vehicle and Vendor Registration

  • Show Vehicle check-in runs from 7 to 9:30 a.m.
  • All vehicles must be pre-registered by June 12. No day-of registration will be accepted.
  • Registration is $10 per vehicle.
  • Flea Market Vendor and Car Corral Registration is open—sign up early to reserve a space.

Register Your Vehicle for the Show

Download the Flyer

Purchase Car Show Tickets

Admission

Purchase tickets in advance by June 14 and save: $12 adult; $10 senior; $8 children (age 5 to 15 years).

Day-of tickets cost $15 for adults; $12 for seniors; and $10 for children (age 5 to 15 years).
 

This annual tradition is perfect for car lovers, history buffs and families looking to spend Father’s Day enjoying classic fun in a beautiful historic setting.

For more information and to get involved, visit the 50th Annual Father’s Day Antique Car Show webpage.

Sully Historic Site is located at 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly. For more information, visit the Sully Historic Site website or call 703-437-1794.

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Make a Splash and So Much More with Fairfax County Parks This Summer!

Spray ParksReady to stay local and play big? Fairfax County Park Authority invites you to plan your ultimate 2025 summer staycation with exciting adventures starting Saturday, May 24. Whether you're cooling off at our award-winning water parks, hitting the mini golf course, or setting sail from our marinas, there's something for everyone to enjoy all summer long. Find specific dates and hours for the summertime fun at the Operational Hours website.

Cool Off and Dive In!

Make the most of those hot summer days with visits to these family-friendly favorites:

  • 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 starting May 24; daily hours begin June 16. Enjoy an extra hour on weekends with the park opening at 10 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Our Special Harbor Spray Park (6601 Telegraph Road, Alexandria): An inclusive splash zone perfect for kids of all abilities.
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Park Pool (8115 Fordson Road, Alexandria): A community pool and children’s wading pool opening Memorial Day weekend with space to swim, relax and enjoy.

Mini Golf, Maximum Fun

Tee off at four mini golf locations for a fun outing the entire family will enjoy:

Classic Carousel Rides

Whirl around with joy at our charming carousels at one of the Park Authority’s enchanting carousels at several park locations (weather permitting):

All Aboard the Mini Trains

Take a scenic ride through these parks, mini-train style (weekends, conditions permitting):

Paddle, Pedal or Cruise on the Water

Get out on the water by renting a kayak, canoe, paddleboard, pedal boat or other vessel at one of our marinas. Many locations also allow for personal boat launches. Please check each site’s rules and regulations online before your visit:

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