September 2021 Saturday, September 25 Family Fall Festival Fridays, September 3 & 24 at Green Spring Gardens Campfire Fridays-Lake Accotink (All ages) Say hello to autumn at Green Spring (3-Adult) Join us for an evening campfire the Gardens with an event the whole family will enjoy. whole family can enjoy. During the program we There will be activities for all ages, including clas- will explore the wonders of our natural world. Our ses for children and adults. Place a bid at the programs may include nature walks, interactive silent auction. Grab a meal at one of the food activities, animal presentations, or other opportu- trucks, and listen to music at the White Gazebo. nities to learn about nature and our place in it. Peruse the book sale, and visit with vendors sell- Topics vary by date, but all campfires include ing a wide assortment of plants and craft items. s’mores. The program at Lake Accotink Park runs This free event runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. on September 3 and from hosted by the Friends of Green Spring, better 7 to 8 p.m. on September 24. The cost is $7 per known as FROGS. person. Children must be accompanied by a reg- istered adult. For information, call 703-569-3464. For more information, call 703-642-5173.
Friday, September 3 Bats Friday, September 3 Saturday, September 4 (7-Adult) Walk the meadows and forest edges to Riverside Campfire: Fishing Fun Garden Talk: Rocks Rock! see bats feeding on insects. Use a bat detector to (6-Adult) Fish from the river bank and learn (Adults) Rock gardens add a special look and hear echolocation. Learn about our native bats about the fish's world. Borrow our fishing rods or feel to any landscape. Extension Master and their habits. The program at Ellanor C. Law- bring your own. Tackle and bait will be provided. Gardeners show you how to design and plant a rence Park runs from 7 to 8 p.m. The cost is $7 Enjoy s’mores at the campfire. The program at beautiful display resembling an alpine meadow or per person. Children must be accompanied by an Riverbend Park runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The cost a mountain garden with fabulous small and dwarf adult registered in the program. For more infor- is $15 per person. Children must be accompanied perennials and evergreens. Not only do these mation, call 703-631-0013. by an adult registered in the program. Meet at the plants boast great longevity, they require little Riverbend Park Visitor Center. For more infor- maintenance. The program at Green Spring Sensory Walk mation, call 703-759-9018. Gardens runs from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The (3-12 yrs.) Join a naturalist on a guided stroll cost is $12 per person. For more information, along a paved woodland path and compare your Saturday, September 4 & call 703-642-5173. senses with those of wildlife's. Meet two live rep- Sunday September 5 tiles. Learn fun facts as you use your ears, eyes, Dinosaur Egg Hunt Nature Scavenger Hunt nose and sense of touch. The program at Hidden (3-8 yrs.) Stomp over to Hidden Oaks Nature (4-Adult) Join us on the first Saturday of each Oaks Nature Center runs from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Center to enjoy a dinosaur-themed program and month to learn about different aspects of nature and again from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m. The cost is $9 outdoor egg hunt while visiting Dinoland in Nature and go on a hunt for themed objects around per child. Only one adult per registered child may Playce. The 45-minute programs at Hidden Oaks Green Spring Gardens. The program runs from attend. For more information, call 703-941-1065. Nature Center begin at 9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 10 to 11 a.m. The cost is $7 per person. For more noon, 1:45 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4:15 p.m. The cost is information, call 703-642-5173. Campfire Fridays-Lake Fairfax $10 per child. One adult only per registered child (3-Adult) Join us for an evening campfire the due to social distancing requirements. This event Saving Garden Treasures: Taking whole family can enjoy. During the program we will be canceled in the event of inclement weath- Plant Cuttings will explore the wonders of our natural world. Our er. For more information, call 703-941-1065. (16-Adult) Learn how to propagate plants from programs may include nature walks, interactive cuttings following simple techniques demonstrat- activities, animal presentations, or other opportu- Register for programs at: ed by Green Spring staff. Gain strategies to over- nities to learn about nature and our place in it. winter your favorite tender perennials so you can Topics vary by date, but all campfires include add them to your garden next year and save s’mores. The program at Lake Fairfax Park runs money. Take home a starter collection to begin from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $12 per person. your own saved treasures. The program at Green Children must be accompanied by a registered www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/parktakes Spring Gardens runs from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The cost adult. For more information, call 703-471-5414. is $22 per person. Call 703-642-5173.
Please note: Programs may fill or be canceled after the calendar is printed. Please register at Parktakes online or confirm with the park. Saturday, September 4 Monday, September 6 Thursdays, September 9 & 23 Choose Your Nature Walk Life in the Leaf Litter Hidden in Your Backyard: History (2-Adult) Book a walk with one of our Children’s (4-Adult) Life can be found thriving everywhere, of Cains Branch Education teachers for a themed tour of Green even under leaf litter. Investigate the creatures (5-Adult) Hike trails and learn about the history of Spring Gardens. Each tour will include a hands- that call the forest floor their home. The program abandoned sites hidden from the view of most of on element and can be customized to include the at Hidden Oaks Nature Center runs from 9:30 to the visitors to Sully Historic Site. Follow trails of science topics your students are learning in 10:30 a.m. and again from 11 a.m. to noon. The forested areas and Cain’s Branch waterway to school. Choose from: Pond Fauna & Flora, Native cost is $7 per person. For more information, learn about the life of early inhabitants who made Virginia Plants & Trees, Watersheds & Geology call 703-941-1065. Sully their home. This outdoor guided program of Green Spring, Virginia Ecosystems Walk, His- involves some walking over uneven terrain and tory of Green Spring as a Farm, or General Gar- Wildlife Walk at Huntley Meadows along trails. The program runs from 11 a.m. to den Tour. Sign up for a scheduled walk or sched- (4-Adult) Enjoy a naturalist-guided walk through noon. The cost is $10 per person. For more infor- ule an on-demand tour. The program runs from 2 the forested trails and wetland boardwalk at Hunt- mation, call 703-437-1794. to 3 p.m. The cost is $45 per family. For more ley Meadows Park. Look and listen for seasonally information, call 703-642-5173. active wildlife like birds, frogs, turtles, dragonflies, Thursday, September 9 muskrats and more. Each season brings different Celebrate National Bat Night wildlife into view. What will you discover? The Teddy Bear Day (6-Adult) Join a naturalist to discover the facts, program runs from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The cost is (3-9 yrs.) Bring your teddy bear or other plush fiction and folklore about nature’s only true flying $9 per person. Children must be accompanied by friend to learn how bears became many children's mammal. We will set the record straight about the a registered adult. For more information, first best friend. Have your bear or buddy join you incredible but often-misunderstood bat. The pro- call 703-768-2525. on a teddy bear picnic in Nature Playce and make gram will start with a presentation followed by a a bear craft. The program at Hidden Oaks Nature night walk where we will use a special acoustic Wednesdays, beginning September 8 Center runs from 4 to 5 p.m. The cost is $7 per device to listen for and identify bat calls not heard (3-6 yrs.) Want to know more about wildlife near child. Children must be accompanied by an adult. by the human ear. The program at Huntley Mead- your house or school? Find out more about the For more information, call 703-941-1065. ows Park runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $9 plants, animals, and habitats near you through per person. Call 703-768-2525. hands-on activities, crafts, songs, and games Nature Detective during our five-week class. Parents/guardians will Sundays, September 5 & 19 (3-5 yrs.) In this naturalist-led class, parents and be required to be present during the program and children explore nature through hikes, stories, Grind Day hopefully learn something new, too. The program songs, hands-on activities and crafts. Topics vary (All Ages) We’re running the mill like it’s 1811 -- takes place at the Lewinsville House, located at seasonally. The program at Huntley Meadows when the mill was first operating. Come learn how 1659 Chain Bridge Road in McLean. It runs from Park runs from 1:30 to 3 p.m. The cost is $12 per an Oliver Evans mill operates, and don't forget to 1 to 2 p.m. The cost is $40 per child. For more child. For more information, call 703-768-2525. buy your grain at the historic General Store be- information, call Riverbend Park at 703-759-9018. fore you leave. Fresh products are stone-ground Bats Class on-site. The programs at Colvin Run Mill begin on Wednesday, September 8 (7-Adult) Spend an evening walking the mead- the hour from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $60 Nature Tots-Fall ows and forest edges to see bats feeding on in- per family group of up to nine people. For more (1-3 yrs.) Bring your toddler to Ellanor C. Law- sects. Use a bat detector to hear echolocation. information, call 703-759-2771. rence Park to explore nature through sight, Learn about our native bats and their habits. sound, smell and touch. The monthly programs Sunday, September 5 The program at Lake Accotink Park runs from include indoor and outdoor activities, and the 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $7 per person. Birding for Beginners topic in September will be Amazing Insects. The Children must be accompanied by an adult regis- (12-Adult) Interested in birding? We can get you program runs from 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. and again tered in the program. For more information, started. Learn about the birds at Huntley Mead- from 11 to 11:45 a.m. The cost is $8 per child. call 703-569-3464. ows Park and gain some basic identification The accompanying adult must be able to partici- skills. The program begins with a bird identifica- pate with the children. For more information, call Fridays, September 10, 17 & 24 tion discussion and runs from 8 to 11 a.m. The 703-631-0013. Saturdays, September 11, 18 & 25 cost is $18 per person. Children age 12 to 16 Sundays, September 12, 19 & 26 must be accompanied by a registered adult. For Huntley Speaks Putting the Animals to Bed more information, call 703-768-2525. Architectural Tour (3-Adult) When evening shadows spread over
Monday, September 6 (16-Adult) How does Historic Huntley’s architec- Kidwell Farm, it is time to put the animals to bed. ture connect to America’s hard-won independ- Bring your flashlight or lantern for this twilight tour Animal Pajama Party ence? Who designed it and for what purpose? and learn how our farm animals settle down for (3-7 yrs.) Put on your pajamas and come to Hid- Join a historical guide on a walking tour of this the night. Dress for the weather. The program at den Oaks Nature Center to hear bedtime stories, Federal-style villa and related outbuildings to Frying Pan Farm Park runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. meet animals and wish goodnight to the center's discover how architecture from the past speaks to The cost is $10 per person. Children must be live animals. Bring your favorite stuffed animal us today. The program at Historic Huntley runs accompanied by a registered adult. For more with you. The program runs from 6:30 to from 10 to 11 a.m. The cost is $8 per person. For information, call 703-437-9101. 7:15 p.m. The cost is $8 per child. One adult only more information, call 703-768-2525. per registered child. Call 703-941-1065.
Fridays, September 10, 17 & 24 Friday, September 10 & Saturday, September 11 Saturdays, September 11, 18 & 25 Thursday, September 23 Wetland at Dusk Walk Sundays, September 12, 19 & 26 Wildlife Biology Kids (Adults) Join park naturalists for a relaxing stroll Family Farm Tour: Putting the (6-12 yrs.) Join a park naturalist to explore the through Huntley Meadows Park’s forest and wet- Animals to Bed exciting lives of the animal kingdom. Outdoor land paths. Look and listen for wildlife settling (All Ages) When evening shadows spread over nature hikes, hands-on activities and the use of down or waking up during the transition of day to Kidwell Farm, it is time to put the animals to bed. scientific instruments will turn us into wildlife biol- night. The program runs from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. Bring your flashlight or lantern for this twilight ogists. Each class covers a different animal’s The cost is $10 per person. Call 703-768-2525. amazing abilities. The program at Huntley Mead- tour, and learn how our farm animals settle down Sunday, September 12 for the night. Visit with several farm animals, feed ows Park runs from 4 to 6 p.m. on September 10 them a bedtime snack, and read them a story. and from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. on September 23. The Tuesday, September 14 Dress for the weather. The program at Frying Pan cost is $14 per child. Call 703-768-2525. Saturday, September 25 Farm Park runs from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. The cost is Outdoor Science Lab at Huntley $50 per family. Call 703-437-9101. Saturdays, September 11 & 18 (6-Adult) Explore the exciting world of science Campfire Saturdays with fun hands-on experiments, activities and Friday, September 10 (3-Adult) Join us for an evening campfire the challenges. Enrich your understanding of various Saturday, September 18 whole family can enjoy. During the program we science and engineering topics using scientific Wildlife Felting will explore the wonders of our natural world. Our investigations, observations, and lab skills with (16-Adult) Learn the fine art of creating charming programs may include nature walks, interactive the guidance of a park naturalist. Each outdoor felt animals from yarn using techniques that com- activities, animal presentations, or other opportu- class will focus on a different science theme. All press the threads into a creature. A fox and an nities to learn about nature and our place in it. supplies are included. The program at Huntley owl will be made in class. A suggested list of Topics vary by date, but all campfires include Meadows Park runs from 2 to 3:30 p.m. on Sep- supplies will be sent to you after registration. This s’mores. The program at Burke Lake Park runs tember 12 and costs $12 per person. The pro- is an indoor class. Face masks and safety dis- from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $12 per person. gram runs from 1 to 2 p.m. on September 14 and tancing are required. The program at Hidden Children must be accompanied by a registered from 2 to 3 p.m. on September 25 at a cost of $10 Oaks Nature Center runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on adult. For more information, call 703-323-6600. per person. Children must be accompanied by a September 10 and from 3:15 to 4:45 p.m. on registered adult. No indoor restrooms, but porta- September 18. The cost is $40 per person. For Saturday, September 11 ble restrooms are available. Call 703-768-2525. more information, call 703-941-1065. Watershed Clean-Up Days (All ages) The Park Authority’s annual fall clean- Sundays, September 12 & 26 Fridays, September 10 & 24 up days begin on September 11. Come alone or Fishing for Parent and Child Twilight by Kayak bring a group to give back to the environment and (5-Adult) Learn how to fish together. This intro- (12-Adult) Watch the sun set on Burke Lake as help clean the region’s waterways. Activities will ductory course starts you with such basics as the wildlife settles in for the night, then return to be taking place at parks throughout the county. how to rig and use a fishing rod, safety proce- the dock by the light of the moon. Single kayaks This is a great volunteer opportunity for families, dures and environmental awareness. Rod and and all equipment will be provided. The program students, scouts and community service organi- bait will be provided. The program at Lake Ac- at Burke Lake Park runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. zations. Get details on how to participate at: cotink Park runs from 1 to 2:25 p.m. The cost is The cost is $43 per person. For more information, www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/volunteer. $23 per person. Each person must register. Par- call 703-323-6600. ticipants 16 and older must have a valid Virginia Family Fun: Jurassic Gardener fishing license. Call 703-569-3464. Netting for Bugs (5-Adult) Learn about prehistoric plants that are (4-Adult) What will you find? Join park naturalists still around today, from a tree that is 69 million Sunday, September 12 for a fun day using sweep nets to catch flying years old to ferns that dinosaurs trod upon. Take Dog Daze insects and roll logs to look for life beneath the home your own plant. The program at Green (All ages) Let your dog take a plunge at the Wa- leaf litter like slugs and worms. Use a magnifying Spring Gardens runs from 10 to 11 a.m. The cost ter Mine as the swim season for people comes to glass to get up close to examine these amazing is $8 per person. Call 703-642-5173. a close. Dog Daze features dogs-only swimming tiny animals and learn about their fascinating and a canine resource fair. This day of fun for all lives. This rare opportunity to catch animals is Plants & Design: Perk Up Your members of the family runs from 10 a.m. to possible through the guidance of our park natural- Fall Garden 1 p.m. at Lake Fairfax Park. The cost is $10 per ists. The program at Huntley Meadows Park runs (Adult) September is a great time to inject some dog. All proceeds go to the Fairfax County Park from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on September 10 and autumn beauty into your home garden. Green Foundation to benefit parks. Call 703-471-5414. from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on September 24. The cost is Spring horticulturist Brenda Skarphol discusses $10 per person. Children must be accompanied dividing perennials, planting cool season plants, Nature Storytelling by a registered adult. For more information, call and beautifying your garden with fall season (3-6 yrs.) Explore parks through books. Hear a 703-768-2525. show-stoppers so it looks its autumn best. Spe- story, enjoy nature activities, take a short hike, cial emphasis will be placed on plants for pollina- and finish with a craft. Topics will change season- Follow Us On Twitter at tors and other wildlife. The program at Green ally. The program at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park runs from 1 to 2 p.m., and the cost is $8 per child. https://twitter.com/ Spring Gardens runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The cost is $18 per person. For more information, An adult must accompany each child registered in fairfaxparks call 703-642-5173. the program. For information, call 703-631-0013. Sunday, September 12 Sunday, September 12 Mondays, beginning September 13 A Day in the Life of Intro to Kayaking (12-Adult) Junior Lakeside Explorers Queen Elizabeth II by Vendor (5-7 yrs.) Join Junior Lakeside Explorers, the (Adults) It starts with tea. She lives in splendid (12-Adult) This introductory-level class is perfect Park Authority’s newest nature club. Learn about palaces and has hundreds of servants, but how for beginners or for those who want to learn how the wildlife that calls the lakefront parks home. does the Queen spend a regular day? Enjoy a to paddle more efficiently. Learn about different Nature topics are geared to meet some home- glimpse into her daily routine and explore chang- kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and school science requirements. Topics vary by es in her family life in the wake of a tumultuous safety gear. On the water, learn to move the boat month. The program at Burke Lake Park runs year. The tea program at Historic Green Spring in every direction using forward and reverse from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. for four weeks. The cost runs from 1 to 3 p.m. Program formats are sub- strokes, a turning stroke, a slice stroke and stop- is $32 per child. Call 703-323-6600. ject to change. Full tea includes finger sandwich- ping maneuvers. Kayaks and equipment are pro- es, pastries, scone, cream, and jam. The cost is vided. The program at Royal Lake Park runs from Monday, September 13 $38 for the program and tea; $15 for the program 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $56 per person. For Garden Sprouts Fall- only. For more information, call 703-941-7987. more information, call 703-569-3464. Nature Playgroup (3-5 yrs.) Your preschooler enjoys nature-themed Birding by Kayak-Single Mondays, September 13 & 27 toys and puzzles while you meet other playgroup (13-Adult) Enjoy a naturalist-led birding trip by Tuesdays, September 14 & 28 parents one Monday a month. Through games, kayak. Park Authority lakes are home to more Little Hands on the Farm songs, activities and a garden walk, we explore than 100 species of birds and hold many unique (2-5 yrs.) Join us to learn about a new element of seasonal topics outdoors, weather permitting. habitats. See how these small vessels can pro- farm life each week. Children will get to spend The program at Green Spring Gardens runs from vide a closer look into the world of birds. Travel in time with a different farm animal at each session, 10:30 a.m. to noon. The cost is $10 per person. a one-person kayak. The program at Lake Ac- too. Other activities may include story time, creat- For more information, call 703-642-5173. cotink Park runs from 8 to 10 a.m. The cost is $43 ing crafts, and introductory-level farm chores. The per person. For information, call 703-569-3464. program at Frying Pan Farm Park runs from 9:45 Homeschool Science-
to 10:30 a.m. for children ages two and three and Introduction to Ornithology Intro to Kayaking from 11 to 11:45 a.m. for children age three to (6-12 yrs.) Explore how bird adaptations allow (12-Adult) This introductory-level class is perfect five. The cost is $8 per person. Each child and birds to live in their chosen ecosystem. Study for beginners or for those who want to learn how attending adult must register in order to control Huntley Meadows Park’s collection of preserved to paddle more efficiently. Learn about different group size. For information, call 703-437-9101. specimens, make outdoor observations, and ex- kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and plore using field tools to learn identification and safety gear. On the water, learn to move the boat Mondays, September 13, 20 & 27 classification. The program at Huntley Meadows in every direction using forward and reverse Little Acorns-Fall runs from 10 a.m. to noon. The cost is $14 per strokes, a turning stroke, a slice stroke and stop- (2-4 yrs.) Preschoolers and their accompanying child. For more information, call 703-768-2525. ping maneuvers. The program at Lake Fairfax adult begin sharing nature's wonders in this inter- Park runs from 2 to 4 p.m. The cost is $43 per active class. Experiences include finger plays, Night Sky Tour at the person. For more information, call 703-471-5414. stories, activities and outdoor exploration. The Roll-Top Observatory Fishing for Parent and Child topics are: Sept.13-Spinning Spiders; Sept..20- (8-Adult) Take a fun tour of planets, constella- Penguins; and Sept. 27-Dinosaurs. The program tions, stars, nebulae, and galaxies that can be (5-Adult) by Vendor at Hidden Oaks Nature Center runs from 9:45 to seen at night with the naked eye and with tele- (5-Adult) Learn how to fish together. This intro- 10:30 a.m. and again from 11 to 11:45 a.m. The scopes at the Roll-Top Observatory at Turner ductory course starts you with such basics as cost is $8 per child. Dress for a walk. Masks are Farm Park. If the weather is bad, we will discuss how to rig and use a fishing rod, safety proce- required for adults and children; one adult only and show images of objects that could be ob- dures and environmental awareness. Rod and per registered child; no unregistered siblings, served in clear skies. No prior knowledge of as- bait will be provided. The program at Royal Lake please. For more information, call 703-941-1065. tronomy is needed, just an interest in learning Park runs from 9 to 10:25 a.m. The cost is $22 about the universe around our planet. The pro- per person. Each person must register. Partici- Mondays, September 13 & 27 gram at Turner Farm Park runs from 7:30 to pants 16 and older must have valid Virginia fish- Storytelling in the Garden 8:30 p.m. The cost is $8 per person, and class ing license. For information, call 703-569-3464. (2-Adult) Join us every other week at Green will be held rain or clear skies. Call 703-759-9018. Spring Gardens for a story. Families can bring a Kayak Fishing (12-Adult) picnic blanket or just sit in the grass and listen to Wednesday, September 15 by Vendor our storytellers read a story with a different History Tots-Fall (12-Adult) Instructors from Fish and Explore will theme. Afterwards, take some time to explore our (2-3 yrs.) Bring your toddler to explore history cover fishing and kayaking basics, including use gardens, ponds and Historic House. The program through sight, sound, smell and touch. The pro- of spinning gear, tackle selection, kayak strokes at Green Spring Gardens runs from 9 to 9:45 a.m. gram includes indoor and outdoor activities, and and water safety. Kayaks and fishing gear will be The cost is $5 per person. All attendees must adults must be able to participate with the chil- provided. The program at Royal Lake Park runs register. For more information, call 703-642-5173. dren. The topic in September will be apples. The from 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. The cost is $114 per per- program at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park runs from son. Participants 16 and older must have a valid Read our Blog at: 9:45 to 10:30 a.m. and again from 11 to Virginia fishing license. For more information, https://ourstoriesandperspectives.com 11:45 a.m. The cost is $8 per child. For more call 703-569-3464. information, call 703-631-0013.
Wednesday, September 15 Fridays, beginning September 17 Saturday, September 18 Topics in Astronomy at the Nature Photography Saturday, September 26 Roll-Top Observatory at Huntley Meadows Monarch & More (8-Adult) Explore everything from space missions (16-Adult) Huntley Meadows Park offers some of (4-Adult) Learn to identify monarch and other to planets, stars, and galaxies with a different the best wildlife watching in the Washington met- butterflies, discover their fascinating life cycle and topic each month at the Roll-Top Observatory at ropolitan area. Every day and change of season assist with tagging monarchs when available. Turner Farm Park. The presentations are for the offers something different to see. What stunning Visit a Monarch waystation and native butterfly general public and do not require any specific photos will you capture? Join park naturalist and garden. Learn about the monarch migration phe- knowledge of astronomy. Classroom discussion professional photographer, Melodie, to learn how nomenon, its challenges, and how you can make is followed by an observing session with tele- to use a DSLR and a tripod to capture images of a difference. Due to the dramatic decline in the scopes, weather permitting. Check the Analemma the natural world. Try a variety of techniques to monarch butterfly population, wild monarchs may Society website for the monthly topics (http:// compose creative images of animals, plants and not be available for tagging. The nature center www.analemma.org/). The program at Turner landscapes. Learn how to upload, enhance, and raises monarchs annually for tagging and re- Farm Park runs from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is print images. Class includes taking home two lease. If available, at least one monarch will be $8 per person. For more information, call River- prints of your own work. This course is designed tagged during the program. The program at Hid- bend Park at 703-759-9018. for beginner to intermediate skill levels. Bring den Oaks Nature Center runs from 1:45 to your own DSLR camera. Bring a tripod if you 2:45 p.m. on September 18, and from 9 to Thursday, September 16 & have one. A supply fee of $10 is payable at the 10 a.m. and 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. on September Saturday, September 25 first class. Class is held outdoors. The program at 26. The cost is $7 per person. Children must Goldenrods and Asters: Fall Wild- Huntley Meadows Park runs from 9 to 11 a.m. for attend with an adult, and all attendees must regis- flowers five weeks. The cost is $113 per person. For ter. For more information, call 703-941-1065. more information, call 703-768-2525. (12-Adult) Stroll along the bank of the Potomac Saturday, September 18 River in search of fall wildflowers and learn some of the folklore associated with them. The program Friday, September 17 Club Championship at Riverbend Park runs from 10 to 11:30 a.m. The Garden Talk: (Adults) Discover who the best players are at cost is $9 per person. For more information, Landscaping with Shrubs Burke Lake Golf Course. Players will compete in call 703-759-9018. (Adults) Is it time to replace those overgrown and an 18-hole individual stroke tournament begin- tired-looking shrubs? Fall is the best time to plant ning at 8 a.m. There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd Thursdays, beginning September 16 new ones. Extension Master Gardeners introduce and 3rd place in three divisions -- Men, Women Lakeside Explorers you to easy-care shrubs that add shape and and Senior. Compete in closest-to-the-pin con- (7-11 yrs.) Join Lakeside Explorers, the Park structure, fragrance, berries, and seasonal color tests, too. The cost is $40 per person, which in- Authority’s newest nature club. Learn about the to your landscape. The program at Green Spring cludes lunch, and the fee is due at time of regis- wildlife that calls the lakefront parks home. Nature Gardens runs from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. The cost is tration. Registration begins 30 days prior to the topics are geared to meet some homeschool $12 per person. Call 703-642-5173. event. The rain date is September 25. For more science requirements. Topics vary by month. The information, call 703-323-1641. program at Burke Lake Park runs from 10:30 to Family Nature Campfire 11:30 a.m. for four weeks. The cost is $32 per (All Ages) Join a naturalist to learn about local Family Fun: Monarch Migration child. For more information, call 703-323-6600. wildlife and enjoy a cozy campfire with s’mores. (5-Adult) Learn about magnificent monarch but- Great for celebrating a family birthday. Up to nine terflies and their migration. Move through the Thursday, September 16 people in your family or COVID bubble group may obstacles in our Monarch Migration Course, Corn Grinding & Clay Pottery attend. Masks are required. The program at His- evolving from egg to butterfly and beyond with (4-Adult) How did the Powhatan Native Ameri- toric Huntley runs from 6 to 7 p.m. The cost is games, songs and activities. The program at cans use the plants and animals you see every $90 per family. This program will be rescheduled Green Spring Gardens runs from 10 to 11 a.m. day for their medicine, grocery store, clothing and in the event of severe weather. For more infor- The cost is $10 per person. For more information, fun? Immerse yourself in a way of life from 400 mation, call 703-768-2525. call 703-642-5173. years ago. Grind corn, make a clay pot, master Floral Design: European corn darts and go on a guided tour to see Huntley Nature at Night Meadows Park from the perspective of a Virginia (5-Adult) No plans on Friday night? Learn what Hand-Tied Bouquet Indian. The program runs from noon to 2 p.m. happens in Riverbend Park after dark! Each Na- (16-Adult) Hand-tied bouquets are the European The cost is $12 per person. For more information, ture at Night program will feature a different topic standard for flower gift giving and bridal bou- call 703-768-2525. about nighttime life in the forest, on the river, in quets. Designer Betty Ann Galway shows you the the pond and at the meadow. Enjoy nighttime techniques for constructing and balancing this Homeschool at the Lake-Fall hikes, get a sneak peek at nocturnal critters, and lovely arrangement and techniques that you can (6-12 yrs.) This program focuses on the natural learn how the park wakes up when we go to use to make floral gifts and bouquets for any and historical world. A different topic and hands- sleep. The program runs from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. occasion. The program at Green Spring Gardens on activities are covered each month. The topic in The cost is $8 per person. Call 703-759-9018. runs from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The cost is $40 per September is Stream Life. The program at Lake person. Please register for both the program fee Accotink Park runs from 1 to 2 p.m., and the Enjoy the beauty of parks at: and the supply fee. For more information, cost is $10 per person. For more information, www.instagram.com/fairfaxparks/ call 703-642-5173. call 703-569-3464. Saturday, September 18 Sunday, September 19 Sunday, September 19 Play Like it's 1935 Chipmunk Stroll Drawing Autumn Splendor (5-Adult) Join us for some good old-fashioned (6-Adult) Take a walk with a naturalist to look (16-Adult) Autumn is a lovely time to be outside fun! Make a simple toy like the Alcorn children did and listen for Eastern Chipmunks (Tamias stria- searching for fall wildflowers, berries, seeds, in- when they moved to Huntley during the Great tus striatus). Learn about the lives of these cute sects and spiders. Go on a half-hour hike in Depression and take it home to enjoy. The pro- critters. The program at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park search of fall signs. Learn some tips for drawing gram at Historic Huntley runs from 2 to 3 p.m. runs from 1 to 2 p.m. The cost is $6 per person. insects and plants. Then, create your own fall The cost is $8 per person. Children must be ac- For more information, call 703-631-0013. sampler using photos, live plants and animal companied by a registered adult. For more infor- artifacts using your choice of colored pencil or mation, call 703-768-2525. Catch a Critter! watercolor. Dress for the weather. Six-foot dis- (4-Adult) Grab a net and join us for a special day tancing and masks are required. A suggested list Galaxy Gazing-Jupiter and Saturn with a park scientist to see, touch and study wet- of supplies will be sent after registration. The (6-Adult) Turn your eye to the sky and join a park land creatures up close and personal. Use magni- program at Hidden Oaks Nature Center runs from naturalist as we peer through a telescope at two fying lenses to study their unique characteristics. 3 to 5 p.m. The cost is $21 per person. For more visible planets in our solar system, Jupiter and What critters live in the wetland? What can these information, call 703-941-1065. Saturn. How are these planets different from little animals tell us about their home? This rare earth? What constellations can we see? Explore opportunity to dip-net in the wetland is possible Monday, September 20 the galaxy with us. The program at Huntley through the guidance of our park naturalists. The Pond Life Meadows Park runs from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. The program at Huntley Meadows Park runs from (4-Adult) Meet a naturalist by Walney Pond and cost is $10 per person. Call 703-768-2525. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The cost is $10 per person. bring some shoes that can get wet and muddy. For more information, call 703-768-2525. We will search for catch-and-release tadpoles, Sketch Hike Fall Wildflowers ID dragonfly nymphs, water scorpions and other (10-Adult) Turtlehead, jewelweed, seed box, Birding for Beginners creatures. The program at Ellanor C. Lawrence cardinal flowers -- come see our beautiful fall (12-Adult) Interested in birding? We can get you Park runs from 6 to 7 p.m. The cost is $7 per wetland flowers. Discover how they live and how started. Learn about Lake Fairfax Park’s birds person. Children must be accompanied by an to draw them. Drawing materials are included in and gain some basic identification skills. The adult registered in the program. For more infor- the cost, courtesy of the RunningBrooke Fund. program at Lake Fairfax begins with a bird identi- mation, call 703-631-0013. The program at Huntley Meadows Park runs from fication discussion and runs from 9:30 to 11 a.m. 10 a.m. to noon. The cost is $15 per person. For The cost is $12 per person. Call 703-471-5414. Fall Full Moon Hike more information, call 703-768-2525. (4-Adult) Join us for a rare opportunity to explore Grow Your Own Native Plant the boardwalk at Huntley Meadows Park under a Native Flora For Homeowners (4-Adult) Join a naturalist to learn about some of bright full moon. We will look and listen for wildlife (16-Adult) From Virginia bluebells to zigzag gold- the native plants at Riverbend Park and why as we explore the forest and marsh trails at the enrod, learn about the wonderful world of Virginia they’re so important. Learn how you can help our park. The program runs from 8:30 to 10 p.m. The native plants and how to choose what to plant in native ecosystems stay healthy and strong. Then, cost is $9 per person. For more information, your yard. The program at Riverbend Park runs plant your own native plant to take home and call 703-768-2525. from 10 a.m. to noon. The cost is $12 per person. grow so you can educate your friends and family, For more information, call 703-759-9018. too. The program at Riverbend Park runs from Tuesday, September 21 10 to 11:30 a.m. The cost is $10 per person. For Terrific Turtles Dairy Days- more information, call 703-759-9018. (5-Adult) Join a naturalist to meet and learn Ice Cream Making & Butter about the turtles that live in Fairfax County. Then, (5-Adult) Churn butter, crank ice cream, milk a Nuts About Walnuts hit the trail in search of native turtles. The pro- fake cow, play 18th century games, and experi- (6-Adult) Early fall is when black walnuts ripen gram at Burke Lake Park runs from 10 to ence the products of a historic dairy. The hour- and fall from the trees in abundance. Come learn 10:55 a.m. The cost is $10 per person. Dress for long program at Sully Historic Site runs at why we are nuts about these nuts! Collect wal- the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Meet at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The cost is $32 per nuts from the grounds at Sully Historic Site and the campground office. For more information, family or pod of up to six people. Children must learn how to turn walnut hulls into ink and dye. call 703-323-6600. be accompanied by an adult. Sully tour cost is Write with a quill pen and walnut ink, learn about separate. For information, call 703-437-1794. dyeing fabric with walnut dye, and sample an old- Tuesday, September 21 fashioned walnut treat. This program is designed Homeschool Science- Magical Meadow: for a pod or family group of up to six people. The Vertebrate Classification White Garden Installation 45-minute sessions begin at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and (6-12 yrs.) How does an animal’s body covering, (Adult) Join landscape designer Larry Weiner for 3 p.m. The cost is $20 per family. For more infor- like fur, feathers or scales, help it to survive? a walk and talk at the newly installed White Gar- mation, call 703-437-1794. Learn how mammals, reptiles, amphibians, birds den Meadow. Weiner will share details and high- Please register for programs at and fish are classified. We use outdoor explora- lights of the meadow project and his creative tion, observation and lab skills to explore this process. White Meadows is located at 3301 Haw- Parktakes online topic. The program at Huntley Meadows Park thorne Lane in Falls Church. The program runs runs from 1 to 3 p.m. The cost is $14 per person. from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The cost is $22 per www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ For more information, call 703-768-2525. person. For information, call 703-642-5173. parktakes
Wednesday, September 22 Saturday, September 25 & Saturday, September 25 Invasive Plant Identification Sunday, September 26 The Strange Shape of Sundials Walk Fall Family Campout (8-Adult) Learn about the many kinds of sundials (8-Adult) Identify some of Fairfax County's com- (5-Adult) Burke Lake Park is the perfect setting and make your own. Sundials are the world's mon invasive plant species. Explore ways to less- for a family campout, and we’re making it even oldest clocks, seen in alignments of Stonehenge en these plants around your home. The program better. Join us for planned events such as a and Newgrange. Ben Franklin had exploding at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park runs from 6 to 7 p.m. campground orientation, guided nature programs sundials, and Thomas Jefferson built a new type The cost is $8 per person. Call 703-631-0013. and hike, DIY campfire and s’more supplies, tour of sundial. Today there are many new sundials. boat ride and fishing. All the programs above, Did you ever see a digital sundial? As an activity, Autumn Equinox Evening Hike along with one campsite with one bundle of wood, we'll help you make your own paper sundial that (Adults) Welcome the first night of fall with a are included with each registration. The program tells accurate time. The course will be held in the pleasant evening tour of Huntley Meadows Park starts at 2 p.m. on Saturday and ends at 11 a.m. Roll-Top Observatory classroom, followed by at sunset. Learn about common wildlife in the on Sunday. The cost is $99 per family. One regis- telescope observing of the sun. The program at marsh and where to find them. The program runs tration per family. Call 703-323-6600. Turner Farm Park runs from 1 to 2 p.m. The cost from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The cost is $9 per person. is $8 per person. For more information, call River- For more information, call 703-768-2525. Saturday, September 25 bend Park at 703-759-9018. African Americans at Walney Thursday, September 23 Walking Tour Sundays, beginning September 26 Critter Crawl (12-Adult) Hear the names and stories of many Intro to Kayaking (2-6 yrs.) Walk with a naturalist and your child as African American families who lived and worked (12-Adult) This introductory-level class is perfect we investigate the critters who make this park at Walney. Learn about slave tenancy and hear for beginners or for those who want to learn how their home. Children must be accompanied by an stories of resistance and survival. The program at to paddle more efficiently. Learn about different adult. The program at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park Ellanor C. Lawrence Park runs from 1 to 2 p.m. kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and runs from 10 to 11 a.m. The cost is $8 per child. The cost is $7 per person. For more information, safety gear. On the water, learn to move the boat For more information, call 703-631-0013. call 703-631-0013. in every direction using forward and reverse strokes, a turning stroke, a slice stroke and stop- Colonial Life for Homeschool Meet the Author- ping maneuvers. The program at Lake Accotink (6-12 yrs.) Did you know that Huntley Meadows And Write a Book Park runs from 9 to 10:25 a.m. for four weeks. Park was once part of George Mason's holdings? (3-7 yrs.) Meet local children’s book author Meg The cost is $89 per person. Call 703-569-3464. Discover this forgotten Founding Father as you DeBoe as she shares two of her popular young Sunday, September 26 make your own candle, design your own stencil to children’s books, “Let’s Move” and “Lucy and the mark crops, write with a quill pen, and decide the Fox.” Learn more about some of the animals Cider Making future of the Virginia colony. The program at His- featured in the stories. Learn how stories are (All Ages) Learn how to use an old-fashioned toric Huntley runs from 10 a.m. to noon. The cost created and produced. Then, create a new story cider press by making your own cider at Colvin is $14 per child. Call 703-768-2525. based on one you have heard to take home. This Run Mill. Participants will need to bring 50-100
outdoor program at Hidden Oaks Nature Center apples of their choosing and sealable containers Night Kayaking runs from 1 to 2 p.m. The cost is $9 per child. for carrying the cider home. Participants will carry (13-Adult) Enjoy Lake Accotink after dark in a Children must be accompanied by an adult who and press their own apples and cider. Dress ac- kayak. Many nocturnal animals come out after will assist with the craft. For more information, cordingly. Please wash all fruit before arrival; dark and the view from a kayak is a great way to call 703-941-1065. there is no way to clean fruit at Colvin Run. Tight- see them. Bring flashlights and dress for the ac- ly sealable containers for transporting cider are tivity. The program at Lake Accotink Park runs Twilight Boardwalk Stroll required: 40 apples yields about one gallon of from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $43 per per- (6-Adult) Join a park naturalist for a guided walk cider. All participants will be contacted prior to son. For more information, call 703-569-3464. along the forested paths to the wetland and expe- their program registration date for full details. Current COVID guidelines will be in place. The Friday, September 24 rience Huntley Meadows Park as it transitions from day into night. Watch and listen for beavers, program runs from 11 a.m. to noon and again American Indian Games & Crafts owls and other nocturnal residents. The program from 3 to 4 p.m. The cost is $60 per family of up (4-Adult) Play traditional Eastern Woodland Indi- runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $10 per to nine people. Call 703-759-2771. an games of skill and luck which were common person. For more information, call 703-768-2525. during the period of first European contact. Enjoy Twilight Hilltop Tour oral storytelling. Make a game to take home. The Riverside Campfire: (Adults) Historic Huntley sits high upon a hill program at Hidden Oaks Nature Center runs from Bats and Bugs overlooking Hybla Valley and Huntley Meadows 4 to 5 p.m. The cost is $7 per person. Children Park. It's a dramatic setting made all the more (4-Adult) As day turns to night, bats and some must be accompanied by a registered adult. For stunning by the setting sun. Join us after hours insects wake up. Through games and activities, more information, call 703-941-1065. for a special tour and see the house in a different learn about the relationship between night-flying light. Light refreshments will be served. Dress bats and the insects they seek. Enjoy s’mores by Golfers can score info at: appropriately for the weather. The program runs the campfire. The program at Riverbend Park https://twitter.com/ from 6 to 7 p.m. The cost is $8 per person. For runs from 7 to 8 p.m. The cost is $8 per person. GolfFairfax more information, call 703-768-2525. For more information, call 703-759-9018.
Sunday, September 26 Monday, September 27 Thursdays, beginning September 30 Campfire Safety for Families Walney Creek Walk Homeschool Biology- (4-Adult) Families learn how to safely build and (8-Adult) Take a one-mile walk along Walney Our Living Watershed enjoy a campfire, plus make s'mores. The pro- Creek from its source at the Spring House to its (8-15 yrs.) Dive into watershed education at Ella- gram at Historic Huntley runs from 2 to 3 p.m. end at Big Rocky Run. Learn about plants and nor C. Lawrence Park. Receive hands-on lessons The cost is $8 per person. This program is not animals that call this watershed home and ob- about aspects of watershed education in a variety appropriate for children under four years of age. serve evidence of how humans have interacted of water environments. Topics will include ma- Children must be accompanied by an adult who is with Walney Creek throughout history. The pro- croinvertebrate searches and identification, wa- registered in the program. For more information, gram at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park runs from 6 to tershed ecology, life cycles, food chains, stream call 703-768-2525. 7:30 p.m. The cost is $8 per person. For more monitoring techniques, pollution problems and information, call 703-631-0013. watershed protection. All lessons are structured Kayak Fishing (12-Adult) around the Virginia Standards of Learning. The by Vendor Tuesday, September 28 program runs from 1 to 2:30 p.m. for four weeks. (12-Adult) Instructors from Fish and Explore will Enslaved Lives and the The cost is $42 per child. Call 703-631-0013. cover fishing and kayaking basics, including use Legacy of Slavery of spinning gear, tackle selection, kayak strokes (Adults) Join a historian for a tour of Historic Thursday, September 30 and water safety. Kayaks and fishing gear will be Huntley that examines the relationship of the Secrets, Spies, Sputnik provided. The program at Lake Mercer Park runs Mason family to slavery and recovers insights into and Huntley from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The cost is $114 per per- the lives of the Humphrey family and other en- (Adults) Take a stroll with us on the less-visited son. Participants 16 and older must have a valid slaved people whose labor maintained Mason side of Huntley Meadows Park to uncover a histo- Virginia fishing license. For more information, call wealth and social status. The program runs from ry of spies, espionage and how the Cold War 703-569-3464. 1 to 2 p.m. The cost is $8 per person. For more struggle between the US and the USSR shaped information, call 703-768-2525. Huntley and the Fairfax County we know today. Intro to Kayaking (12-Adult) The program runs from 10 a.m. to noon and in- by Vendor The Art of Calligraphy cludes a 2.4-mile walk over flat terrain. The cost (12-Adult) This introductory-level class is perfect (12-Adult) Mary Teichman says, “calligraphy is a is $10 per person. Meet at the South Kings High- for beginners or for those who want to learn how great antidote to modern life.” Explore the con- way entrance. Call 703-768-2525. to paddle more efficiently. Learn about different nection of Historic Huntley’s past residents to the kayaks, paddles, personal flotation devices and beautiful art of writing. Try your hand at a variety safety gear. On the water, learn to move the boat of pens and brushes. Supplies are included. The Share your love of parks. program at Historic Huntley runs from 4 to in every direction using forward and reverse Give the gift of fun and fitness strokes, a turning stroke, a slice stroke and stop- 5:30 p.m. The cost is $10 per person. For more ping maneuvers. Kayaks and equipment are pro- information, call 703-768-2525. with a Fairfax County Park vided. The program at Lake Mercer Park runs from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. The cost is $56 per per- Stargazing with Binoculars Authority Gift Card. son. For more information, call 703-569-3464. (8-Adult) Binoculars offer a fine introduction to the sights that lie in our night sky. Learn about Twilight by Kayak (12-Adult) different types of binoculars and how to use them by Vendor to find planets, galaxies, star clusters and nebu- (12-Adult) Watch the sun set on Lake Mercer as lae and to visually stroll through the beautiful star the wildlife settles in for the night, then return to fields of the Milky Way. This event includes an observing session to help you find objects visible the dock by the light of the moon. Single kayaks and all equipment will be provided. The program in the night sky, weather permitting. Attendees are welcome to bring their own binoculars. The at Lake Mercer Park runs from 5 to 7 p.m. The cost is $56 per person. For more information, call program at Turner Farm Park runs from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. The cost is $8 per person. For more 703-569-3464. Get details at: information, call Riverbend Park at 703-759-9018.
Nature Kayaking at Lake Fairfax https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ (12-Adult) Paddle with a naturalist to learn about Wednesday, September 29 the flora and fauna that call Lake Fairfax home. Birding at Huntley parks/gift-cards Find out what’s growing along the lake’s edge, (12-Adult) More than 200 species of birds have what likes to wade in the water, and what might been identified in the forests, meadows, and wet- Prepared by the land habitats of Huntley Meadows Park. Each Fairfax County Park Authority be swimming underneath you right now. The Public Information Office program at Lake Fairfax Park runs from 2 to season brings new feathered residents, for brief or extended stays. Grab your binoculars and join Phone: 703-324-8700 • Fax: 703-324-3974 4 p.m. The cost is $43 per person. For more Email: [email protected] information, call 703-471-5414. a park naturalist on your next birding adventure. Distribution and Information: 703-324-8677 The program runs from 9 to 11 a.m. The cost is $15 per person. For more information, call 703- To request reasonable ADA accommodations, call 768-2525. 703-324-8727, TTY 711, at least 10 working days in advance of the registration deadline or event. A Fairfax County, Virginia, publication.