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

Park News

Stay Informed

Get the latest information on what is happening at the Park Authority. Contact the Public Information Office for archived news items at Parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov.

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Celebrate Stars, Stripes and Summer Fun at Lake Fairfax Park!

Lake Fairfax Fireworks
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.

Lace Up for the Summer Sprint in the Park at Lake Fairfax

kids running
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.

Fairfax County Park Authority Reminds Visitors to Stay Safe and Respectful at Scott’s Run Nature Preserve This Summer

Scott's Run
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.

Get Linked In With the New Golf Fairfax Mobile App

Phone app
The 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.

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.

Fairfax County Park Authority Honors Juneteenth with Events Across the County

Juneteenth Celebration
The 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.

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

Sully Antique Cars
Start 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.

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

Woman playing golf
This 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:

Jefferson District Park Tennis Court Renovations To Begin in June

tennis courts
The 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.

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

National Trails Day
With 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.

New Directors Join Fairfax County Park Foundation Board

Park Foundation Directors
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.

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

Sully Antique Cars
Celebrate 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.

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

Spray Parks
Ready 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.

Fairfax County Park Authority Honors Service Members with Free Activities on Memorial Day!

Memorial Day Flyer
  In recognition of Memorial Day, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families to enjoy complimentary access to select park amenities and activities on Monday, May 26.

Groove to the Sweet Tunes of the Summer Entertainment Series

kid dancing
Enjoy warm summer nights with family, friends and community at the Summer Entertainment Series. Free performances that the entire family will enjoy return to locations across Fairfax County coming June through August. Listen to concerts with performers playing everything from go-go to bluegrass to jazz to rock and more. Experience cultural showcases from around the world.

Drop-In Interviews for Summer Jobs Begin at Lake Accotink Park

Lake Accotink Park
Spend your summer at the lake! Lake Accotink Park in Springfield, Virginia, is hosting drop-in interviews every Tuesday from noon to 6 p.m., starting May 20 through June 10, 2025. Stop by the Visitor Center to explore job opportunities, complete an application and interview on the spot! No appointments are necessary!

Build Water Safety Skills with the Park Authority During National Water Safety Month

wATER SAFETY
Fairfax County Park Authority celebrates water safety all year long with numerous opportunities to swim and enjoy water at Rec Center pools, lakes, riverfront parks and waterparks.

One Month Left: Help Shape the Future of Fairfax County Parks – Take the Parks Count! 2026 Survey

Parks Count
There’s still time to make your voice heard! The Parks Count! 2026 Parks Needs Assessment Survey closes on June 15, 2025, and we need your input. The Fairfax County Park Authority is asking community members to take the online survey and help spread the word.

Music, Dance and Unity Shine at Fairfax County Parks’ AAPI Celebration

AAPI Celebration
The Fairfax County Park Authority welcomed thousands of visitors to Mason District Park on Saturday, May 10, for the 2025 Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Festival, a vibrant celebration of culture, community and heritage.

Upcoming Public Engagement Opportunities at RCP Sites

Stempson House
In recognition of Historic Preservation Month, the Fairfax County Park Authority is hosting several events at historic properties across the county. Resident curators at these properties invite community members to learn about the ways in which they are working to preserve Fairfax County’s heritage. On Saturday, May 31, open house events will be held at the following resident curator properties:

May Events at Colvin Run Mill Blend History, Whiskey and Classic Film

Colvin Run Mill
Step into history, sip something spirited and enjoy a literary classic under the stars at Colvin Run Mill this May. The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to enjoy three unique events that blend education, entertainment and old-fashioned charm at one of Virginia’s operational 19th-century water-powered mills.

Fairfax County Honored with US Department of Energy’s Better Project and Better Practice Awards

receiving award
The U.S. Department of Energy has honored Fairfax County with a Better Project Award and a Better Practice Award at the Better Buildings, Better Plants Summit held on May 1 in D.C. These prestigious awards recognize partners for demonstrating innovative and industry-leading accomplishments in energy, water and waste reduction.

Community Celebrates 50 Years of Huntley Meadows Park and 200 Years of Historic Huntley at Wetlands Awareness Day

Huntley Meadows Park Celebration
Despite a steady drizzle that seemed perfectly suited for the occasion, more than 450 visitors flocked to Huntley Meadows Park on Sunday, May 4, to celebrate Wetlands Awareness Day and mark two major milestones: the 50th anniversary of Huntley Meadows Park and the 200th anniversary of Historic Huntley.

Park Authority Seeks Public Input on Proposed Pickleball Courts at Greenbriar Park

greenbriar pickleball rendering
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites community members to participate in a public comment period regarding a proposal to construct three dedicated pickleball courts at Greenbriar Park, located at 4600 Stringfellow Road in Fairfax.

Fairfax County Park Authority Awarded Grant To Enhance Invasive Species Management

IMAP volunteers
The Fairfax County Park Authority FCPA, a core member of the National Capital - Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (Nat-Cap PRISM), has been awarded a grant from the Virginia Department of Forestry. The grant, part of the FY25 Virginia PRISM Support for Invasive Species Program, will provide $60,827 to manage invasive species across FCPA parkland.

Fairfax County Park Authority Celebrates Spring with Big Plant Sale at Green Spring Gardens!

Big Plant Sale
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites plant lovers of all kinds to celebrate the arrival of spring at the annual Spring Garden Day and Big Plant Sale on Saturday, May 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Green Spring Gardens.

From Lion Dances to K-Pop: Don’t Miss the Fairfax County Park Authority 2025 AAPI Festival

AAPI celebration
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the 2025 AAPI Heritage Festival on Saturday, May 10, from noon to 4 p.m. at Mason District Park in Annandale. This free, family-friendly event honors the diverse cultures and contributions of AAPI communities through live performances, art, food and interactive experiences for all ages.

FCPA Staff Member Receives Sharon Bulova Award for Exemplary Administrative Professionals

Rosario Bombaugh
The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that Rosario Bombaugh has been named a recipient of the 2025 Sharon Bulova Award for Exemplary Administrative Professionals. This distinguished honor recognizes Bombaugh’s outstanding leadership, initiative, and commitment to excellence in public service.

Celebrate the Outdoors and a New Playground at Ruckstuhl Park May 17

ruckstuhl park
Join the Fairfax County Park Authority and Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik for a morning of free outdoor fun on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to noon at Ruckstuhl Park, located at 7545 Idylwood Drive in Falls Church.

Score with Rec Center Membership: Sale and Open House in May

Rec Center Open House
Find your path to health and wellness at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers. Become an annual member and score a 15% discount when you purchase during May. Explore your neighborhood Rec Center for free and connect with other community members during the Open House event on Thursday, May 22.

Celebrating 50 Years of Wetlands Wonder at Huntley Meadows Park

Huntley Meadows Park
Huntley Meadows Park is turning 50 years old. The Fairfax County Park Authority invites the public to celebrate five decades of wetland conservation, wildlife habitat and outdoor discovery at one of Fairfax County’s most beloved parks. This milestone also marks the 200th anniversary of nearby Historic Huntley, adding even more reasons to celebrate this spring.

Park Authority Accepting Nominations for 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards

Elly doyle logo
With an award-winning system of 420 parks, the Fairfax County Park Authority relies on thousands of volunteers to support its programs and initiatives. It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to operate this nationally recognized park system without their dedicated service.

Fresh Flavors Return to the Fairfax County Farmers Markets for the 2025 Season!

Mount Vernon Farmers Market
The wait is over—Fairfax County Farmers Markets are back open for business! Hosted by the Fairfax County Park Authority, these beloved markets connect residents with local farms and food producers across ten locations countywide.

Celebrate International Dark Sky Week and Discover the Magic of the Night

Dark Skies Turner Farm
Ever wonder what you’re missing when the lights stay on? This International Dark Sky Week, April 21–28, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites you to reconnect with the wonder of the night—and learn how to protect it.

Embrace the Vibrancy of Asian Culture at Fairfax County Parks' Asian American & Pacific Islander Festival!

AAPI celebration
The Fairfax County Park Authority is thrilled to announce a lively and enriching celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at Mason District Park on Saturday, May 10, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. This free, family-friendly event promises to be a day of culture, community and fun, with activities and entertainment for all ages.

Park Authority Accepting Nominations for 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards

Elly doyle logo
With an award-winning system of 420 parks, the Fairfax County Park Authority relies on thousands of volunteers to support its programs and initiatives. It would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to operate this nationally recognized park system without their dedicated service.

Jose Peralta Appointed to Sully District Seat on Park Authority Board

Jose Peralta
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Jose Peralta has been appointed by Sully District Supervisor Kathy Smith to represent her district on the Park Authority Board. Peralta will serve a term through March 2026.

Gold Rush Sale: Get Your Discounted Pass for The Water Mine

Water Mine
Get your ticket for staying cool this summer by hitting the gold rush sale — purchase discounted season passes for The Water Mine. Don’t miss your chance to secure this deal, purchase by Monday, May 26.

Kids Are Invited To Learn and Grow With Park Authority Preschools

Preschool
With a commitment to high-quality early childhood education, Fairfax County Park Authority preschools are where learning begins and growing never stops. Throughout the school year, these programs help children develop the essential skills they need for success in full-time school.

Entertainment, Education and Excitement at the Fairfax County Earth Day 2025

earth day
Plan the perfect celebration of Mother Earth at the Park Authority’s 2025 Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sully Historic Site.

Huntley Meadows To Host Open Hire Event To Fill Camp Positions

Huntley Meadows Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority is hosting an open hire for camp positions at Huntley Meadows Park. Job seekers are invited to the open hire on Saturday, April 19 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Huntley Meadows Park in Alexandria. Stop by anytime to meet staff from Huntley Meadows Park, apply for a position, interview on site and potentially walk away with a job!

Park Authority Welcomes Public Comment on Proposed Dual Use Basketball and Futsal Court at Dunn Loring Park

dunn loring park courts
The Fairfax County Park Authority is exploring plans to resurface and expand the existing basketball court at Dunn Loring Park. The proposed redesign would transform the current court into a dual-purpose space, combining basketball and futsal to better serve the community.

Burke Lake Golf Course Powers Up with Solar Just in Time for Earth Month

Solar Array
Burke Lake Golf Course is going green in a big way this Earth Month with the activation of a new 55-kilowatt rooftop solar array, now generating clean, renewable energy atop its clubhouse. This installation is part of a broader solar initiative across Fairfax County facilities and marks the third solar array to date installed by the Fairfax County Park Authority FCPA.

Team Up and Tee Off: 2025 Spring Golf Tournaments

Team Up and Tee Off: 2025 Spring Golf Tournaments
Hit the greens and test your skills in Golf Fairfax’s exciting lineup of spring tournaments! Partner up for fun competition this season. Golfers of all ages and abilities are invited to showcase their skills. Registration opens 45 days before the event. 

Park Authority Recognized as a Top Employer for Interns in Virginia

Park Authority Recognized as a Top Employer for Interns in Virginia
Park Authority Recognized as a Top Employer for Interns in Virginia 

McLean Central Park Celebrates Grand Reopening with Community Ribbon Cutting

McLean Central Park Celebrates Grand Reopening with Community Ribbon Cutting
On the morning of Saturday, March 29, community members, local officials and park supporters gathered to celebrate the grand reopening of McLean Central Park with a ribbon cutting ceremony.

Please Pardon Our Dust: Two Fairfax County Dog Parks to Undergo Renovations

Please Pardon Our Dust: Two Fairfax County Dog Parks to Undergo Renovations
The dog parks at Chandon Park and Blake Lane Park will soon undergo renovations to enhance the visitor experience. The planned improvements will include converting the park surfaces to stone dust, with necessary dirt work and grading to ensure long-term durability.

Spring Brings Exciting Events to the Parks

Spring Brings Exciting Events to the Parks
Celebrate all things spring with Fairfax County Park Authority. From new blooms to egg hunts, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy in the parks this season.  Celebrate all things spring with Fairfax County Park Authority. From new blooms to egg hunts, there’s something for the entire family to enjoy in the parks this season.

Fairfax County Park Authority Launches Parks Count! 2026 Parks Needs Assessment Survey

parks count, our parks, our future
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is excited to launch the Parks Count! 2026 Parks Needs Assessment online survey to evaluate park and recreation needs across the county. Community input is essential to shaping the future of Fairfax County’s parks, and we want to hear from you. 

Mount Vernon Rec Center Hiring Instructors for Exciting New Programs

 

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