There’s a pile of festive fall events to jump into with the Fairfax County Park Authority. Celebrate the season with a variety of festivities, including family activities, community events and more!
The Great Zucchini (two performances)
Thursday, Sept. 5, 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., Frying Pan Farm Park, $10
Join us for a fun-filled interactive children’s magic show with The Great Zucchini as he brings showstopping tricks and side-splitting comedy together in one performance. Families of all ages can enjoy this kid-friendly magic show.
Saturday, Sept.7, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., The Water Mine at Lake Fairfax Park, $10 per dog
Four-legged friends are sure to have fun at this event where the Water Mine Family Swimmin’ Hole is open to dogs! Dogs can swim and frolic throughout the pools and waterpark features. This event benefits the Fairfax County Park Foundation.
Monday, Sept. 9, Rec Centers, All-Day (special programming 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.), Free admission all day
Attend a Rec Center Open House to find your community and explore everything these wellness hubs have to offer. Get free admission all day at all of our Rec Centers and learn more about membership. In the evening, take part in sample classes and demonstrations, giveaways and games, and family-friendly activities.
View the Rec Center Open House flyer
Virginia Native American Festival
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Riverbend Park, $12 per person
This festival brings together tribal members from Virginia. Enjoy performances by the Rappahannock Native American Dancers and Drum group. Visit Virginia tribal vendors, shop for traditional crafts, and learn about the past, present and future of tribal culture and history.
Family Skate and Dance Night: Come on Skaters, Let’s Go Party!
Saturday, Sept. 21, 6 to 9 p.m., Franconia Rec Center, $10 per person
Hi Barbie! Hi Ken! You’re invited to the ultimate BarbieTM party extravaganza. Whether you want to wear pink, sparkles, feathers or all of the above, anyone can be Barbie skater and dance the night away. Enjoy an evening filled with fun, music by the live DJ, refreshments and festive decorations.
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Lake Accotink Park, $8 per person
Buzz over to Lake Accotink Park for Bug Fest! Learn more about your favorite creepy-crawly friends with bug-themed programs, embark on an insect safari, discover live insects, roll over logs to find creatures, play in soil stations, design your own bug, and use technology to explore the wonderful world of insects!
Saturday, Oct. 5, Noon to 5 p.m., Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, free event
At this fall celebration, there is something for everyone! Dance along to live music from The Walkaways and Kentucky Avenue. Sample local foods and beverages from ODD BBQ, District Small Bites, ONO Brewery and River Sea Chocolates. Browse wares from local artisans and vendors. Kids can enjoy nature crafts with park naturalists.
Saturday, Oct. 12, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sully Historic Site, free event
Celebrate Archaeology Month with Fairfax Parks! Experience hands-on activities, including interactive workshops, archaeological-themed crafts and engaging demonstrations. Interact with exhibitors showcasing their work and discover the latest high-tech tools and equipment.
Saturday, Nov. 2, 2 to 4 p.m., Audrey Moore, Franconia and Oakmont Rec Centers, register for this free event
Take the plunge and try out exercise classes in the pool during Aqua Flex ’24. Adults are invited to sample aquatics fitness during this free event. Attend the entire 2-hour session or just a portion of it to try out different styles and intensities of aquatic fitness opportunities offered by Fairfax County Park Authority.