Join family, friends and neighbors at the parks this holiday season. With more than 50 holiday-themed activities and events to choose from, Fairfax County Park Authority has something for everyone — from wagon and train rides to candlelit tours and, of course, Santa himself! Here are just a few highlights:
Holiday on the Farm
Frying Pan Farm Park, Fridays and Saturdays through Dec. 20; 4:30-7:30 p.m.
Get ready for an evening on the farm with bright holiday lights, wagon rides, indoor activities, animal attractions, campfires, cocoa and visits with Santa. Tickets are $15 per person in advance and $20 at the door.
Winter Wonderland
Burke Lake Park, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 21; 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
Experience the magic of the holidays with train rides on the Holiday Express, carousel spins and s’mores by the fire. Meet Santa and enjoy hot chocolate and candy canes. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
Holiday Magic at Colvin Run Mill
Children’s Holiday Shopping at Historic Colvin Run
Saturday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 7; times available between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Attend this special event where children can shop for holiday gifts in a historic setting. Tickets are $7 per child.
Saturday, Dec. 13 and Sunday, Dec. 14; multiple times
Meet Santa in the charming setting of Colvin Run Mill. Times available from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2 to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday. Sensory-friendly options available as well! Ticket prices vary.
Holiday Lantern Tour at Colvin Run Mill
Friday, Dec. 19; 6:30 p.m.
Tour the historic mill by candlelight and discover holiday traditions of the past. Tickets are $12 per person.
Swim with Santa
Spring Hill Rec Center, Sunday, Dec. 7; 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Celebrate the holiday season with a festive-themed pool party and the opportunity to swim with Santa at Spring Hill Rec Center. Children ages 7-12 can join in the fun 4:30-5:30 p.m. Tickets cost $10 per child.
Candy Cane Lane
Oakmont Rec Center, Saturday, Dec. 13; 3-7 p.m.
Stroll down Candy Cane Lane for a game of mini golf with Mrs. Claus. Come out to meet Santa, enjoy hot chocolate and other sweet treats, work on crafts, and have fun. Tickets cost $12 in advance and $15 at the door.
Holiday and Ugly Sweater Skate and Dance Night
Franconia Rec Center, Saturday, Dec. 20; 6-10 p.m.
Celebrate the holiday in style by wearing your brightest, most festive sweater (or holiday outfit) of the season. Make the season bright by taking laps around the skate floor with friends and family. Tickets cost $10 per person.
For a comprehensive list of events, dates, and registration details, please visit the Park Authority’s Events Calendar website.