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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Roll Out to Family Skate and Dance Night

Family Skate Night
Find some of the season’s best outings at Franconia Rec Center’s Family Skate and Dance Night. Fairfax County Park Authority invites all ages out to enjoy these family-friendly, community events that boast exciting themes and live music.
Roll Out to Family Skate and Dance Night

Discover Wellness at Park Authority Rec Centers During September Open House

Rec Center Open House
Walk through the doors to any of Fairfax County Park Authority’s nine Rec Centers for free on Tuesday, Sept. 23, and find a variety of resources to improve your health and wellness. Discover the unique amenities of your neighborhood Rec Center during this Open House event.
Discover Wellness at Park Authority Rec Centers During September Open House

ParktoberFest Returns to Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

Parktoberfest crew
Celebrate the fall season with family, friends and neighbors at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park’s annual ParktoberFest! Enjoy live music, delicious food, craft brews, artisan shopping and family-friendly activities on Saturday, Oct. 4, from noon to 5 p.m. on the lawn of the historic Middlegate House beside Cabell’s Mill, located at 5235 Walney Road in Centreville.
ParktoberFest Returns to Ellanor C. Lawrence Park

VDOF Grant Supports Regional Push To Protect Fairfax County Parklands from Invasive Plants

ima volunteers
The Virginia Department of Forestry has awarded the National Capital Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (NatCap PRISM) an $80,000 grant to manage invasive plants across the region. The Fairfax County Park Authority will use the funding to conserve wildlife habitat, restore natural areas and expand public education about forest health.
VDOF Grant Supports Regional Push To Protect Fairfax County Parklands from Invasive Plants

Resident Curator Applications Accepted for Dranesville Tavern Through Oct. 10

dranesville tavern
An application for curatorship has been received for the historic Dranesville Tavern. The Fairfax County Park Authority will continue to accept resident curator applications for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of the tavern until Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at 5 p.m.
Resident Curator Applications Accepted for Dranesville Tavern Through Oct. 10

Discover the History of Fairfax County at the 2025 Historic Oak Hill Open House

Oak Hill Open House
Step back in time and explore one of the oldest homes in Fairfax County during the annual Historic Oak Hill Open House on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Discover the History of Fairfax County at the 2025 Historic Oak Hill Open House

Strawberry Park Playground Offers Dynamic New Destination at Mosaic

Park news
Fairfax County Park Authority and EDENS are pleased to welcome the community to a celebration for the opening of Strawberry Park Playground at Mosaic District in Fairfax at 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 26. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, live music, face-painting and activities for kids.
Strawberry Park Playground Offers Dynamic New Destination at Mosaic

FCPA Hosts Drop-In Interviews at Frying Pan Farm Park and Burke Lake Park

frying pan park
The Fairfax County Park Authority is hiring at two of its most popular parks. Looking for a fun and fulfilling part-time job this fall and winter? Join the team at Frying Pan Farm Park in Herndon or Burke Lake Park in Fairfax Station. Appointments are not necessary, just come by to explore job opportunities, complete an application and interview on the spot, all in one visit.
FCPA Hosts Drop-In Interviews at Frying Pan Farm Park and Burke Lake Park

Join the Park Authority To Celebrate National Public Lands Day

National Public Lands Day
The Fairfax County Park Authority invites residents to join in the nationwide celebration of National Public Lands Day on Saturday, Sept. 27. Community members are encouraged to get involved by taking part in a wide variety of service activities that help protect the natural, cultural and recreational resources of our treasured park system.
Join the Park Authority To Celebrate National Public Lands Day

Improvements Planned for Franconia Rec Center To Include Dedicated Racquet Courts for Tennis and Pickleball

Franconia court improvements
The Fairfax County Park Authority recently announced a proposal to establish dedicated tennis and pickleball courts at Franconia Rec Center, building on improvements currently in progress and recently completed on the property.
Improvements Planned for Franconia Rec Center To Include Dedicated Racquet Courts for Tennis and Pickleball

ABCs of the Park Authority’s Preschools, Tots Programs and Drop-In Child Care

children at the rec center
Children form lasting memories as they learn while attending Fairfax County Park Authority preschools. FCPA runs two preschools licensed by the Virginia Department of Social Services that help young children prepare for full time school: Kids Play Preschool at:
ABCs of the Park Authority’s Preschools, Tots Programs and Drop-In Child Care

Enter Your Fitness Era: Discounted Annual Membership to Park Authority Rec Centers

Rec Center yoga
Make strides toward your wellness goals this fall with an annual membership to Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers — get a 15% discount throughout September. Infuse fun into your fitness routine with group exercise classes, such as Zumba, Pilates and yoga. Get stronger every day with free weights, strength equipment and cardio machines.
Enter Your Fitness Era: Discounted Annual Membership to Park Authority Rec Centers

Pool Reopens at Mount Vernon Rec Center

mount vernon pool
Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to welcome the community to the much-anticipated reopening of Mount Vernon Rec Center pool.
Pool Reopens at Mount Vernon Rec Center

Celebrate the Autumn Harvest With Cider-Making at Fairfax Parks

Celebrate the Autumn Harvest With Cider-Making at Fairfax Parks
Celebrate the flavors of fall with an old-fashioned cider-pressing adventure! At Frying Pan Farm Park and Colvin Run Mill, guests can roll up their sleeves, bring their apples and turn them into fresh, sweet cider in a private, hands-on session perfect for family or friends.
Celebrate the Autumn Harvest With Cider-Making at Fairfax Parks

Golf For All: Adapted Golf Clinics Launch This Fall

golfers
Golf Fairfax is proud to announce, through a partnership with the Virginia State Golf Association, the launch of Adaptive Golf Clinics this fall at Burke Lake Golf Center. These clinics provide a welcoming, interactive environment where golfers of all abilities can learn new skills and enjoy the game.
Golf For All: Adapted Golf Clinics Launch This Fall

Park Authority To Lower Lake Accotink To Complete Dam Inspection

Lake Accotink
The Fairfax County Park Authority will lower water levels at Lake Accotink after Labor Day in order to complete an assessment of the dam. The assessment is being conducted to evaluate the structure to ensure its integrity and identify any maintenance or repair needs.
Park Authority To Lower Lake Accotink To Complete Dam Inspection

Become an Eco-Superhero and Volunteer To Help Restore Parkland

Volunteers at work
Looking for a way to make a difference in your neighborhood? Protect your local parks and make friends while you’re at it -- visit the Invasive Management Area Program website and become volunteer!
Become an Eco-Superhero and Volunteer To Help Restore Parkland

Skate Park Construction To Begin at Mount Vernon Woods Park

Skate Park
The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the start of Phase 2 of renovations at Mount Vernon Woods Park, bringing a brand-new skate park to the community. Construction will begin in September 2025 and is anticipated to be completed this winter.
Skate Park Construction To Begin at Mount Vernon Woods Park

Five New Dedicated Pickleball Courts Coming Soon to Greenbriar Park

Pickleball
The Fairfax County Park Authority is excited to announce the upcoming construction of five brand-new, dedicated pickleball courts at Greenbriar Park. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity across Fairfax County, the Park Authority is committed to enhancing recreational offerings, and this addition will create more opportunities for recreation, friendly competition and community play.
Five New Dedicated Pickleball Courts Coming Soon to Greenbriar Park

Discover the Wild World of Insects at Lake Accotink’s Bug Fest

bugfest
Step into the fascinating world of bugs at Bug Fest — Lake Accotink Park’s annual celebration of all things that crawl, fly and buzz! Join us on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the McLaren Sargent Pavilion for a day packed with discovery, fun and outdoor adventure.
Discover the Wild World of Insects at Lake Accotink’s Bug Fest

Michael T. Reynolds Appointed to Providence District Seat on Park Authority Board

Michael T. Reynolds
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that Michael T. Reynolds (Mike) has been appointed by Providence District Supervisor Dalia Palchik to represent the Providence District on the Park Authority Board. Reynolds will fill the seat following the tenure of previous members and brings decades of distinguished public service and leadership in national park management to the role.
Michael T. Reynolds Appointed to Providence District Seat on Park Authority Board

Rec Center Pools: Schedule for Temporary Closures

Lifeguard equipment
Projects at Fairfax County Park Authority Rec Centers will result in temporary closures for pools and spas. Franconia Rec Center Facility renovations at this facility, located at 6601 Telegraph Road in Alexandria, require the following temporary closures:
Rec Center Pools: Schedule for Temporary Closures

Fairfax County Park Authority Announces 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Award Winners

Elly doyle logo
The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Awards, recognizing exceptional service and contributions to the county’s parks, natural and cultural resources and recreational opportunities. The awardees will be honored during a recognition ceremony this September sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Foundation.
Fairfax County Park Authority Announces 2025 Elly Doyle Park Service Award Winners

National Golf Month Is Here! August with Golf Fairfax Promises a Hole-Lot To Celebrate

people playing golf
August is National Golf Month, and Golf Fairfax is teeing up a hole-lot of ways to celebrate—on the course, at the range and even indoors. Whether you're chasing your first birdie, trying something new or sharpening your short game, this is your chance to connect and fall in love with golf all over again.
National Golf Month Is Here! August with Golf Fairfax Promises a Hole-Lot To Celebrate

Join FCPA for a Community Info Session on September 2

Join FCPA for a Community Info Session on September 2
Join FCPA for a Community Info Session on September 2

Franconia Rec Center To Undergo Facility Improvements Starting Aug. 18

franconia rec center map
The Fairfax County Park Authority will soon begin facility renovations at Franconia Rec Center, located at 6601 Telegraph Road in Alexandria, aimed at enhancing air quality and comfort for patrons. The renovations, scheduled to begin Monday, Aug.
Franconia Rec Center To Undergo Facility Improvements Starting Aug. 18

Tail-Waggin’ Good Time at The Water Mine’s Dog Daze

dog during dog daze
Get ready for your dog’s favorite day of the year. Gather up your canine companions and head out to The Water Mine for a dogs-only swimming day on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For one day only, The Water Mine’s pools, sprays, showers and water playgrounds are open just to dogs to end the season on an un-fur-gettable high.
Tail-Waggin’ Good Time at The Water Mine’s Dog Daze

Uncover Wonder: 3 New Stops Added to the Discovery Trail

People walking at Huntley Meadows Park
Calling all wanderers, explorers and trailblazers — your next adventure lies along the Discovery Trail! The Fairfax County Park Authority is proud to announce that three exciting new sites have been added to the odyssey!
Uncover Wonder: 3 New Stops Added to the Discovery Trail

Resident Curator Applications Accepted for Lahey Lost Valley through Aug. 30

Lahey lost valley
An application for curatorship has been received for the Lahey Lost Valley historic house. The Fairfax County Park Authority will continue to accept resident curator applications for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of the house until Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, by 5 p.m.
Resident Curator Applications Accepted for Lahey Lost Valley through Aug. 30

Celebrate Local Food and Community During National Farmers Market Week

Farmers Market
The Fairfax County Park Authority is joining markets across the country to celebrate National Farmers Market Week from Aug. 3-9, 2025. Join us for live music, kids' activities and free giveaways at all Park Authority Farmers Markets!
Celebrate Local Food and Community During National Farmers Market Week

Drop-In Interviews for Seasonal Jobs Begin at Burke Lake Park!

Burke Lake Train
Looking for a fun and fulfilling part-time job this fall? Spend your season at Burke Lake Park, one of Fairfax County’s most beautiful outdoor destinations! Drop-in interviews at the Burke Lake Park Info Center will be held Aug. 7, 8, 14 and 15 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (no appointment needed!) Come by to explore job opportunities, complete an application and interview on the spot all in one visit!
Drop-In Interviews for Seasonal Jobs Begin at Burke Lake Park!

Life’s a Party at the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair!

Ferris wheel at the fair
Step right up! Experience good old-fashioned family fun at the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair, coming to Frying Pan Farm Park from Thursday, July 31, to Sunday, Aug. 3. This year’s event is bigger than ever, featuring rides and games, fair food, tractor demonstrations, 4-H exhibits, farm animals, Big Truck Night and live entertainment. Event Hours Thursday, July 31
Life’s a Party at the Fairfax County Carnival and Fair!

Set Your GPS for the Drive-In Theater – Starlight Cinema

Drive-in Movie
Nostalgic for drive-in movies? Introduce your family to the magic of the drive-in theater this summer at Starlight Cinema, part of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series.
Set Your GPS for the Drive-In Theater – Starlight Cinema

Make Un-fore-gettable Memories This August

Family Golfers
Join us on the green this August for Family Golf Month! Share your love of the sport with the budding young golfers in your life and foster a hobby that will last a lifetime. At Golf Fairfax, we know that tee time is the best time to create cherished memories with family, which is why we’ve made it even easier to play with the whole family.
Make Un-fore-gettable Memories This August

Fall Adventures Await with FCPA Classes and Camps

FALL CLASSES
Fall in love with your local parks — get ready to register for all the extraordinary activities being hosted by Fairfax County Park Authority. The fall edition of Parktakes magazine has hit the stands and is bursting with classes and camps to fill your calendar.
Fall Adventures Await with FCPA Classes and Camps

Jingle Into July with Christmas Themed Family Skate and Dance Night

christmas skaters
Switch off the summer heat and get on your feet with a Christmas in July themed Family Skate and Dance Night on Saturday, July 26 from 6 to 9 p.m. Come dressed in your best holiday-inspired outfit as you take a spin around the floor. 
Jingle Into July with Christmas Themed Family Skate and Dance Night

Discover the History of Fairfax County at Historic Oak Hill

Oak Hill Open House
Take a tour of historic Oak Hill, one of the oldest homes in Fairfax County, on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This annual open house provides an opportunity to go back in time and rediscover our community roots. Oak Hill Manor is located at 4716 Wakefield Chapel Road in Annandale.
Discover the History of Fairfax County at Historic Oak Hill

Fairfax County Honors 2025 Park Authority Outstanding Volunteers and Issues Proclamation Celebrating National Park and Recreation Month at Evening on the Ellipse

Park and REcreation Month Group photo
On Thursday, July 10, the Fairfax County Government Center Ellipse came alive with music, gratitude, and community spirit during the Evening on the Ellipse celebration recognizing the 2025 Outstanding Volunteers and officially proclaiming July as National Park and Recreation Month in Fairfax County.
Fairfax County Honors 2025 Park Authority Outstanding Volunteers and Issues Proclamation Celebrating National Park and Recreation Month at Evening on the Ellipse

Ditch the Plastic and Celebrate Plastic Free July at FCPA Farmers Markets!

Plastic free pin
Join the movement at FCPA Farmers Markets this Plastic Free July—a global campaign to reduce plastic pollution and create cleaner, greener communities! Each year, it’s estimated that FCPA Farmers Markets alone contribute over half a million plastic bags to the environment. Most of these bags can’t be recycled curbside and end up in landfills—or worse, polluting our parks, streams and forests.
Ditch the Plastic and Celebrate Plastic Free July at FCPA Farmers Markets!

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth During National Ice Cream Month

girl eating ice cream
July is National Ice Cream Month, and there's no cooler way to celebrate than with a visit to your favorite Fairfax County park. Whether you prefer it in a cone, a cup or with sprinkles on top, the Fairfax County Park Authority has a scoop (or two!) of sweet ways to enjoy this classic summer treat.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth During National Ice Cream Month

Blaze the Trail: Free Discovery Trail Map Adventure Marks 75 Years of Fairfax Parks

Discovery trail map
Ready for a summer adventure close to home? The Fairfax County Park Authority invites families and explorers of all ages to hit the trail and celebrate 75 years of parks and recreation with the 2025 Discovery Trail Map. This free, self-guided adventure is the perfect staycation activity, combining outdoor fun, learning and chances to win great prizes!
Blaze the Trail: Free Discovery Trail Map Adventure Marks 75 Years of Fairfax Parks

Celebrate Park and Recreation Month with Fairfax County Parks: Build Together, Play Together

Park and Rec Month
Celebrate Park and Recreation Month with Fairfax County Parks: Build Together, Play Together

Find Your New Favorite Artist at the Summer Entertainment Series

outdoor crowd
Nothing says summer like live music outdoors in the open air. Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series presents free concerts all summer long from award-winning entertainers set at parks across the county. With everything from throwback tunes to modern pop, jazz and soul hits, to children’s songs, this year’s lineup spans genres and generations.
Find Your New Favorite Artist at the Summer Entertainment Series

Bourbon on the Hill: A Tasting Experience at Laurel Hill

Bourbon Bottles
Take your summer sipping to the next level at Jailbreak Johnny’s Private Stock Tasting Series – an exclusive, guided bourbon tasting event at Laurel Hill Golf Club. On Saturday, July 26 from 4 to 6 p.m., discover the bold and distinctive flavors of the Penelope Project X Collection, in an elegant, scenic setting.
Bourbon on the Hill: A Tasting Experience at Laurel Hill

Resident Curator Applications Now Open for Dranesville Tavern and Fairfax Arms

Fairfax Arms
Dranesville Travern The Fairfax County Park Authority is pleased to announce that it is now accepting applications from prospective resident curators for the rehabilitation and long-term maintenance of Dranesville Tavern and Fairfax Ar
Resident Curator Applications Now Open for Dranesville Tavern and Fairfax Arms

International Music and Dance Take Center Stage with Spotlight by Starlight

women with parasols
Travel the world without leaving your own neighborhood this summer by coming out to Spotlight by Starlight, part of the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series.
International Music and Dance Take Center Stage with Spotlight by Starlight

Sing, Dance and Laugh Together at Arts in the Parks

People enjoying summer weather
Gather the entire family and head out to the Fairfax County Park Authority’s Summer Entertainment Series. Make it a summer to remember with Arts in the Parks.
Sing, Dance and Laugh Together at Arts in the Parks

Justice Park Tennis Court Repairs Begin Next Week

Pardon our dust
The Fairfax County Park Authority will begin reconstruction work on the tennis courts at Justice Park early next week. This project includes crack filling, birdbath levelling, new fencing, and a complete level construction repair to improve the playing surface and user experience. The project is expected to take approximately five to six weeks to complete, weather permitting.
Justice Park Tennis Court Repairs Begin Next Week

July Tournaments Bring the Heat and Ignite the Fairways

golfers in holiday clothing
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:
July Tournaments Bring the Heat and Ignite the Fairways

Park Authority Honors 2025 Outstanding Volunteers

Volunteer at work
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:
Park Authority Honors 2025 Outstanding Volunteers

 

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