November Events in Fairfax County, Virginia -- festivals, music, parades and more

Events

2008 Calendar of Events

November 2008

Oct 31 – Nov. 2
Historic Woodlawn's Haunted History Tour. 7 pm – 10 pm. Seating 703.780.4000. www.woodlawn1805.org.

Oct 11, Nov 1, and Dec 6
Schooling Hunter Horse Show Series. 8 am. Frying Pan Farm Park. Walk, trot or canter to this beginner horse show. Classes include hunters, ponies, equitation and more. Held indoors rain or shine. Spectators FREE 8am, 703 – 437 – 9101. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Nov - Mar
Ice Skating Pavilion at Reston Town Center. Open daily, including holidays, November until March. Bring the family, bring the friends, it's a great place to ice skate all season long. Public skating and skate rentals daily until March. Also available: private lessons, birthday parties, and reservations for private and corporate parties. For information call the skating hotline at 703.709.6300. For rates and schedules, visit www.restontowncenter.com.

Nov 1-30
Ice Skating Pavilion at Reston Town Center. 1818 Discovery Street, Reston. November until March, open daily. Outdoor skating in a twinkling atmosphere under the glass Pavilion, open every day during the season. Skate rentals, lessons, and private parties are available. Call Reston Town Center Skate Shop, 703-709-6300, and visit www.restontowncenter.com.

Nov 1
Home for the Holidays Super Pet Adoption. 10 am — 4 pm. 11900 Market Street, Reston. Saturday, November 1. Presented by GoodDogz.org This event showcases adoptable animals from local rescue organizations and shelters. Visit www.gooddogz.org for information or to volunteer.

Nov 1
The Reston Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 9 am – 2 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: Saturday, May 3 until Saturday December 6. Art, antiques, collectibles, artisan crafts, and entertainment by the lake. Free admission and free parking. Visit www.lakeanneplaza.com or www.therestonmarket.com.

Nov 1
Farmers Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 8 am - 12 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: May10 through October 25, every Saturday. Lake Anne Village Center in Reston hosts a bustling marketplace for farmers and residents abundant with the sights, sounds, smells, and colors of an open-air produce market, also featuring fresh meats and dairy products. Have fun while supporting a 'green' economy--shop the Farmers Market! Visit www.restonfarmersmarket.com or www.lakeanneplaza.com.

Nov 1
NEW! Native American Storytelling, Games and Hunting Skills. (4 yrs. and up with adult). 2 pm – 3:30 pm. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Explore the culture of Eastern Woodland Indians during the period of first European contact with an afternoon of stories and games. Naturalists involve the children with oral storytelling and a puppet show. Families experience hand – and – eye coordination games including tossing sticks, corn cob darts and "jackrabbit." Enjoy a woodland walk as the naturalist relates the use of native plants and animals to commodities in our grocery stores and pharmacies. Take aim at animals trying to nibble on the village's crops. Use your tossing stick to fend off toy bunnies, deer and other raiders of "the three sisters." Make a craft to take home. Reservations and advanced payment required. $6/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Nov 1
Mammals: Encounters of the Fluffy Kind. (All ages) 1 pm – 2 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Journey into the forest and look for the signs of the many mammals that make Cub Run Stream Valley their home. Hike with a naturalist and enjoy hands – on activities that will teach you about our fluffy relatives. Reservations required. $3child/$2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Nov 1
Show and Tell: At Green Spring Gardens: Planting a Colorful Spring with Bulbs. 11 am - 12:30 pm. It's time to get dirty planting spring blooming bulbs. Be dazzled with bulbs bursting with color, design suggestions and recommendations for outstanding bulb varieties by Green Spring horticulturalist, Brenda Skarphol. Accompany her into the garden to learn first hand the best methods for planting these beauties. A few bulbs provided for planting in your own garden. $22 11am – 12:30pm. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 2
Pope-Leighey Tech Tour. 703.780.4000. www.popeleighey1940.org.

Nov 2
Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel. Basking in Beethoven. 7 pm. $38, $30, $19. Family Friendly: Children 12 and under half price. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Nov 2
Coyotes. 10 am - 11:30 am. On its way eastward, the coyote hybridized with timber wolves in the north and red wolves in the south and possibly wild dogs. Thus, at 20 to 45 pounds, the eastern coyote is bigger than its western cousin. View night – camera photos of coyotes in the park, listen to taped calls and check a tracking pit. (8 yrs. and up), 10 – 11:30am, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Nov 2
Acoustic Jam. 1 pm - 4 pm. Frying Pan Country Store. Whether you're pickin', strummin' or just listenin' – it's an old – fashioned knee – slappin', finger – poppin', toe – tappin' good time! Bring your instrument or come by to enjoy this drop – in session at the Country Store. The Acoustic Jam brings music to the farm on the first and third Sundays of each month. FREE. 1 – 4pm. 703 – 437 – 9101 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Nov 2
Chocolate – Tasting Party at Green Spring Gardens. 10:30 am - 12 pm. Increase your enjoyment of every bite with the story of chocolate, from bean to bar. Learn how to taste the bean rather than the sugar or flavorings. Sample several varieties of chocolate within a single category and discover some delicious and unusual pairing ideas. The holidays are here – indulge yourself. $20 10:30am – noon. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 3
Nature Snoopers – Bats. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. Try on bat "wings" and join in games and activities all about local bats. Find out why some people fear bats and some people think they are good luck. (5 – 6 yrs., for children in all – day kindergarten), 2:30 – 3:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 27, Nov 3, 10, 17, 24, and Dec 1
Yoga for gardeners at Green spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 10:30 am. A series of Yoga classes featuring the Vinyasa method to increase your strength, flexibility, and endurance necessary for gardening. Class held inside admiring the gardens. $66/six – class session. 9:30 – 10:30am Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Nov 4
Dog's Day Out. 9 am - 10:30 am. Join a naturalist and her dog on a hike designed for you and your dog. Discover different trails through the park and how to be a responsible dog walker in the park. Become aware of some outdoor dangers to your dog. Dogs may not be on a retractable leash. Owners must come equipped with bags. Reservations required. FREE (10 yrs. and up), 9 – 10:30am, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney , 703 – 631 – 0013 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Nov 4
Naturalist Corner. (4 yrs and up with adult). 1 pm – 4 pm. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Explore a discovery room of over a dozen activities and crafts. Discover the changes of the season on a fall scavenger hunt. Participate in outdoor Eastern Woodland Indian games and elect your favorite reptile or amphibian to represent Hidden Oaks. Reservations and advanced payment required. $6/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Nov 4 - Dec 16 (no class on November 11, 25)
Chess I and Chess II Combo - 8-12 years old Tuesdays, 4:30 pm - 6 pm. (6 sessions) Chess is an exciting and ancient game that can benefit children in many ways. It enhances social interactions, and helps to develop higher-thinking skills and intellect. For the first time, Chess I and Chess II will be combined. Participants will learn the rules of chess and how chessmen move and capture. For those who are ready for advancement, the instructor will teach the roles of chessmen and tactics of chess. $40 residents/$60 non-residents. Registration #: 901035-9A Location: Reston Community Center Hunters Woods – 2310 Colts Neck Road, Reston. For questions, please contact Debbie Heron, Director of Youth Programs, at: (703) 390-6163 or email: Deborah.Heron@fairfaxcounty.gov

Nov 5
Farmer's Market Vienna/Oakton. 8 am – 12 pm. Oak Marr RECenter, 3200 Jermantown Road (formerly located at Nottoway Park.www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Nov 6
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Nov 6
Farmer's Market Herndon. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Old Town Herndon, 777 Lynn Street, next to the Red Caboose. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Nov 7
Aquila Theatre Company. Shakespeare, The Comedy of Errors. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $34, $26, $17. Family Friendly: Children 12 and under half price. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Nov 7
Southbound Raptors. 8:30 am - 6 pm. Venture to Waggoners Gap and witness raptors riding the mountain ridges toward their wintering grounds. Goshawks and golden eagles highlighted. Bring a bag lunch and water. There will be a quick lunch stop. Dress for the weather. Van leaves from the Packard Center in Annandale District Park. (Adults), 8:30am – 6pm, Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018 Reservations and advanced payment required by 10/31. $34 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Nov 8
Heirloom Tea & Tour at Woodlawn Plantation. 1 pm. Seating 703.780.4000. www.woodlawn1805.org.

Nov 8
Fall Chores at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 1 pm - 4 pm. Help the farm family clear brush from their fields, stack wood for the winter, repair old fencing, and perform many other necessary farm tasks in preparation for the coming winter. They will welcome any extra hands! Clothes that can get dirty and work gloves are recommended. Weather permitting - call ahead. 703.903.9330 www.1771.org.

Nov 8
The Reston Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 9 am – 2 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: Saturday, May 3 until Saturday December 6. Art, antiques, collectibles, artisan crafts, and entertainment by the lake. Free admission and free parking. Visit www.lakeanneplaza.com or www.therestonmarket.com.

Nov 8
Farmers Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 8 am - 12 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: May10 through October 25, every Saturday. Lake Anne Village Center in Reston hosts a bustling marketplace for farmers and residents abundant with the sights, sounds, smells, and colors of an open-air produce market, also featuring fresh meats and dairy products. Have fun while supporting a 'green' economy--shop the Farmers Market! Visit www.restonfarmersmarket.com or www.lakeanneplaza.com.

Nov 8
Hubbard Street Dance Chicago. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $44, $36, $22. Family Friendly: Children 12 and under half price. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Nov 8
Colonial Day at Sully. 11 am – 4 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. Discover life along Cain's Branch before Richard Bland Lee made this land his country seat in 1794. Hear stories of the Revolutionary War while interpreters show battles tactics from the 18th century. Help with the labor experienced by the enslaved African Americans and make a take – home craft. House tour included. $7/adult, $5/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Nov 8
NEW! Designing with Perennials Series at Green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 11 am. Session 3: Wildlife in the GardenÉCreating Habitats. Explore the principles of combining perennials and woody plants to bring out the best in your garden design. Karen Rexrode, former owner of Windy Hill Plant Farm, discusses how to identify and choose plants, where to place them in the landscape, who they should share space with and how to maintain them in top form. The series combines indoor presentations with outdoor explorations. Each session covers unique design subjects and plants. Register for one session or the entire series. $49/3 – part series or $18/session. 9:30 – 11am 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 8
Colonial Day at Sully. 11 am - 4 pm. Sully Historic Site. Discover life along Cain's Branch before Richard Bland Lee made this land his country seat in 1794. Hear stories of the Revolutionary War while interpreters show battles tactics from the 18th century. Help with the labor experienced by the enslaved African Americans and make a take – home craft. House tour included. $7/adult, $5/child 11am – 4pm. 703 – 437 – 1794.. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Nov 8
Colonial Day at Sully. 11 am - 4 pm. Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151, 703-437-1794. Discover life along Cain's Branch before Richard Bland Lee made this land his country seat in 1794. Hear stories of the Revolutionary War while interpreters show battles tactics from the 18th century. Help with the labor experienced by the enslaved African Americans and make a take-home craft. House tour included. $7/adult, $5/child. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/Sully/.

Nov 9
Etiquette Tea for Young Ladies. 2 pm – 3:30pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Young ladies, 8 – 11 years, enjoy a lesson in table etiquette and practice what they have learned during tea. Great program for scout groups. Pre – paid reservations required by 11/4. $18/young lady www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Nov 9
Serve the Nation: The Lees. 1 pm – 3 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. During afternoon tours, learn how the Lee family loyally served the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation. They were founding fathers, builders of the nation's capital and soldiers. Sign the Declaration of Independence like Francis Lightfoot Lee and Richard Henry Lee; learn about the two Generals Lee from the Revolutionary War and Civil War; and finally, how the District of Columbia became the capital while Richard Bland Lee served in Congress. Tour of the 1794 house included. $6/adult, $5/student, $4 senior and child, plus $2/souvenir quill pen www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Nov 9
Autumn Evening Walk. (6 yrs. and up) 4 pm – 5:30 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Bring the family to visit the wetland in search of Huntley's nocturnal residents – – the elusive, busy beavers. Children must be accompanied by adults. Sponsored by FOHMP. Reservations required. Canceled if rain. $6/adult, $4/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Nov 9
Tassels and Tea at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. The tassel is a universal ornament seen inevery culture around the world. Tassels are everywhere, from mortar boards to book marks, and they come in endless varieties and forms. Find out about the art of tassel – making and make a simple tassel. Use your new tassel – making skills to embellish your holiday gift – wrap this year! $25 1 – 3pm. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 9
Serve the Nation: The Lees. 1 pm - 3 pm. Sully Historic Site. . During afternoon tours, learn how the Lee family loyally served the Commonwealth of Virginia and the nation. They were founding fathers, builders of the nation's capital and soldiers. Sign the Declaration of Independence like Francis Lightfoot Lee and Richard Henry Lee; learn about the two Generals Lee from the Revolutionary War and Civil War; and finally, how the District of Columbia became the capital while Richard Bland Lee served in Congress. Tour of the 1794 house included. $6/adult, $5/student, $4 senior and child, plus $2/souvenir quill pen 1 – 3pm. 703 – 437 – 1794. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Nov 9
Etiquette Tea for Young Ladies. 2 pm - 3:30 pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Young ladies, 8 – 11 years, enjoy a lesson in table etiquette and practice what they have learned during tea. Great program for scout groups. Pre – paid reservations required by 11/4. $18/young lady. 2 – 3:30pm. 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Nov 10
Explorers – Bats. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. Try on bat "wings" and join in games and activities all about local bats. Find out why some people fear bats and some people think they are good luck. (6 – 7 yrs., for children in all – day kindergarten), 2:30 – 3:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 . Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Nov 11
Mount Vernon Salutes Veterans. FREE admission for active duty, former, or retired military personnel! A FREE community concert by the all-veteran barbershop chorus The Harmony Heritage Singers is offered at 11:00 a.m. in the Smith Auditorium. The Sons of the American Revolution and the Daughters of the American Revolution host a wreathlaying ceremony at 2:00?p.m. 703.780.2000. www.mountvernon.org.

Nov 12
Farmer's Market Vienna/Oakton. 8 am – 12 pm. Oak Marr RECenter, 3200 Jermantown Road (formerly located at Nottoway Park.www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Nov 13
Nature Detectives – American Indians. (3 – 5 yrs.) 10 am – 10:45 am. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Learn about American Indians who lived in this area 500 years ago, through an activity and a craft. Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Nov 14
Farmer's Market McLean. 8:30 am - 12:30 pm. Located at Lewinsville Park, 1659 Chain Bridge Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Nov 14
Kirov Orchestra, Valery Gergiev, conductor, Alexel Volodin, piano. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $60, $52, $30. Program includes Prokofiev's Cinderella Suitte No.3 op. 109, and Act 1 from Romeo and Juliet, as well as a Beethoven piano concerto, featurying Alexei Volodin as pianist soloist. $60, $52, $30. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Nov 14
Ponderings – Tracking and Shelter Building. (6 yrs. and up) 4:30 pm – 6 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Naturalist Brian covers quick tips on how to track animals and demonstrates simple shelter building skills. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Nov 15
The Reston Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 9 am – 2 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: Saturday, May 3 until Saturday December 6. Art, antiques, collectibles, artisan crafts, and entertainment by the lake. Free admission and free parking. Visit www.lakeanneplaza.com or www.therestonmarket.com.

Nov 15
Farmers Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 8 am - 12 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: May10 through October 25, every Saturday. Lake Anne Village Center in Reston hosts a bustling marketplace for farmers and residents abundant with the sights, sounds, smells, and colors of an open-air produce market, also featuring fresh meats and dairy products. Have fun while supporting a 'green' economy--shop the Farmers Market! Visit www.restonfarmersmarket.com or www.lakeanneplaza.com.

Nov 15
Doc Severinsen. El Ritmo de la Vida. 8 pm. This innovative and exciting program features classical Spanish music with a jazz flair, gorgeous American and Latino ballads and great music from films. $54, $46, $27. Family Friendly; children 12 and under half price. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Nov 15
Mill Run Dulcimer Band. 7 pm – 9 pm. Colvin Run Barn, 703 – 759 – 2771. Enjoy an evening in the barn as the band ends the concert season with old – time music and folk tunes. FREE, donations accepted www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Nov 15
Bountiful Breads and Baking in the Open Hearth. 10 am – 2 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. The smell of fresh baked goods fills the original kitchen as Sully's cooks teach techniques used to prepare bread and pastry in the early 19th century. Learn about different leavening agents and cooking vessels that made baking a day – long process. At the end of the workshop, enjoy the foods you prepared. House tour included. Reservations required by 11/17. $40 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Nov 15
Park Manager's Walk and Talk. (Adults) 4 pm – 6 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Join Park Manager Kevin Munroe on a walk. Share questions and concerns about the park, find out about the wetland restoration project and look for the wildlife for which the park is well known. Reservations required. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Nov 15
Astronomy for Fun and Families. (All ages) 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Sample the world of science through the beauty of the night sky. Learn about the constellations, the visible planets, comets and other night sky phenomena. Try out fun activities to learn about the solar system, the neighborhood of our plant Earth. $4child/$2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Nov 15
Watercolor Series: Art in the Garden at Green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 3:30 pm. Painting Dark Backgrounds for Flowers. Learn to combine rich, dark colors to create backgrounds that make painted flowers lively and pop off the canvas. Carolyn Grossé Gawarecki demonstrates various techniques to improve the botanical painting skills of intermediate painters or beginners with prior watercolor experience. Morning demonstration by the artist is followed by an afternoon workshop. Carolyn provides direction and critique. Supply list and notes sent to registrants. Bring a bag lunch. $65/session or $120 for both sessions. 9:30am – 3:30pm. 703 – 642 – – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 15 – Dec 31
Holiday Ornaments: Make Your Own (November 15 – December 31) (All Ages) 9 am – 4 pm. Mondays and Wednesdays – Fridays, noon – 4pm weekends and holidays, closed Thanksgiving Day, Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Teasels, pine cones and walnuts all add up to make some cool holiday ornaments. Follow some of our examples or create your own stylish or wacky ornaments. Reservations recommended for groups. $5 for two ornaments www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Nov 15
Botanical Ornaments Workshop at green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 11:30 am. Get ready for the holidays by making ornaments from natural materials collected in the gardens. The festive designs of Green Spring staff will inspire you to create ornaments of your own. Keep for yourself or give them as gifts. All materials provided. $25 9:30 – 11:30am. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 15
Worm Workshop at Green Springs Gardens. 2 pm - 3:30 pm. Here's a family – friendly way to help the environment! Explore the wonderful world of worms in our indoor compost bin. Then make your own worm bin with newspaper bedding, food scraps and real live wiggly worms to take home! $20/project. 2 – 3:30 pm. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 15
Mill Run Dulcimer Band. 7 pm - 9 pm. Colvin Run Barn. Enjoy an evening in the barn as the band ends the concert season with old – time music and folk tunes. FREE, donations accepted. 7 – 9pm. 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Nov 15
Bountiful Breads and Baking in the Open Hearth. 10 am - 2 pm. Sully Historic Site. The smell of fresh baked goods fills the original kitchen as Sully's cooks teach techniques used to prepare bread and pastry in the early 19th century. Learn about different leavening agents and cooking vessels that made baking a day – long process. At the end of the workshop, enjoy the foods you prepared. House tour included. Reservations required by 11/17. $40 10am – 2pm 703 – 437 – 1794. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Nov 15 or 16
Native American Theme. 1 pm – 3 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Travel back to a time when Native Americans populated this country. Self – guided displays and hands – on activities for families working together. $4/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Nov 16
Birding for Beginners. (Adults) 8 am – 11 am. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Observe the transition of our bird community as the summer breeding population moves south and winter residents arrive. A park naturalist helps you sharpen your bird identification skills. Meet in the parking lot. Reservations required. $2 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Nov 16
Woodlawn's Thanksgiving Gathering of Friends Tea & Tour. 1 pm seating 703.780.4000. www.woodlawn1805.org.

Nov 16
Acoustic Jam. 1 pm - 4 pm. Frying Pan Country Store. Whether you're pickin', strummin' or just listenin' – it's an old – fashioned knee – slappin', finger – poppin', toe – tappin' good time! Bring your instrument or come by to enjoy this drop – in session at the Country Store. The Acoustic Jam brings music to the farm on the first and third Sundays of each month. FREE. 1 – 4pm. 703 – 437 – 9101 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Oct 19, Nov 16, Dec 14
Just Jumper Horse Show Series. 9 am. Frying Pan Farm Park. Watch local residents compete for a blue ribbon in a variety of jumping classes. Held indoors rain or shine. Spectators FREE 9am. 703 – 437 – 9101. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Nov 17
Native American Storytelling, Games and Hunting Skills. (4 yrs. and up with adult). 3 pm – 4:30pm. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. (SEE 11/1.) Reservations and advanced payment required. $6/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Nov 17
Nature Quest – Wild Animal Signs Hike. (3 – 6 yrs.) 10 am – 11:30 am. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Look for signs of Hidden Pond wildlife and the evidence that critters leave behind. Short power – point precedes walk. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Nov 17
Young Explorer – American Indians. (6 – 8 yrs.) 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Learn about the American Indians who lived in this area 500 years ago, through a discussion, an activity and a walk through the park. Reservations required. Canceled if rain. $3 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Nov 17
Animal Feeding Time – Turtles. (3 – 5 yrs.) 10:15 am – 11 am. Riverbend Park Nature Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Meet an animal, do animal games and activities, and watch some animals being fed. Reservations and advance payment required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Nov 18
Farmer's Market Mount Vernon. 8 am – 12 pm. Sherwood Regional Library located at 2501 Sherwood Hall Lane. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Nov 19
Farmer's Market Vienna/Oakton. 8 am – 12 pm. Oak Marr RECenter, 3200 Jermantown Road (formerly located at Nottoway Park.www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Nov 19
Pet First Aid and CPR at Lake Accotink Park. 7 pm - 8:30 pm. When disaster strikes your four – legged famohamily member, calling an ambulance isn't enough. You need to know how to manage your pet's injury or illness in the first critical moments until you can get to a veterinarian. This 90 – minute workshop will teach you how to stop bleeding, handle choking incidents, perform chest compressions, fashion a splint, take your pet's pulse... and more! Bring a brown – bag dinner if desired. $45 includes workshop, book and certificate of completion. Registration and advance payment required. No refunds unless the class is cancelled. For registration and additional information, call Lake Accotink Park. 7 – 8:30pm 703 – 569 – 0285. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Nov 20
Workshop: Winter Traditions at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 6 pm - 8 pm. Ah, a rest from farm labor! Join us as we explore the customs of 18th century Wassail and Christmas celebrations. Singing, dancing, storytelling and more. $5 fee; reservations required. 703.903.9330 Contact kjackson@1771.org.

Nov 21
Ponderings – Stream Valley Hike. (6 – 12 yrs.) 4:30 pm – 6 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. In late fall, stream valley park land is a super place to explore, especially when Naturalist Brian leads the way. Travel with your fellow explorers to some of the more remote park locales. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Nov 21
Riverside Campfire – Gourds and Gobblers. (Families) 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Did you know that wild turkeys live in Riverbend Park? Gather Ôround the campfire to find out about these and other Thanksgiving animals and plants from our area. S'mores provided. Come early if you want to picnic or toast hotdogs. Bring a toasting stick and flashlight. Reservations and advanced payment required. $3/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Nov 21, 22 and 23
Pre – Turkey Circuit Quarter Horse Show. 8 am. Frying Pan Farm Park.. Western is in! Cheer on the cowboys and cowgirls in the Quarter Horse Show. Spectators FREE. 8am 703 – 437 – 9101. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Nov 22
The Reston Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 9 am – 2 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: Saturday, May 3 until Saturday December 6. Art, antiques, collectibles, artisan crafts, and entertainment by the lake. Free admission and free parking. Visit www.lakeanneplaza.com or www.therestonmarket.com.

Nov 22
Farmers Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 8 am - 12 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: May10 through October 25, every Saturday. Lake Anne Village Center in Reston hosts a bustling marketplace for farmers and residents abundant with the sights, sounds, smells, and colors of an open-air produce market, also featuring fresh meats and dairy products. Have fun while supporting a 'green' economy--shop the Farmers Market! Visit www.restonfarmersmarket.com or www.lakeanneplaza.com.

Nov 22
Floral Design Workshop Series at Green Spring Gardens. 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. Thanksgiving Centerpiece. Create beautiful floral designs to take home with you after Northern Virginia Community College instructor, Bruce Nash, demonstrates the dazzling possibilities. Floral material, greens and containers provided. $125/three – part series or $48/session 10:30am – 12:30pm. 703 – 642 – 5173

Nov 22 and 23
Video – Cardinals Up Close. 1 pm – 2 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Meet the northern cardinal, Virginia's state bird and a familiar backyard visitor, during this 50 – minute video. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Nov 23
E,anuael Ax and Yefim Bronfman. 4 pm. Legendary pianists Emanuel Ax and Yefim Bronfman come together for an extraordinary performance at the Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $60, $52, $30. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Nov 24
Family Story Time. (Children of all ages). 2 pm. Let your imagination soar with stories and then enjoy an activity. Discover how you can participate in the Summer Reading Program. FREE. Green Spring Gardens, 4603 Green Spring Rd, Alexandria, 703-642-5173, www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Nov 24
Family Story Time at Green Springs Gardens. (All ages) 2 pm - 3 pm. Drop into the Children's Library Corner, listen to stories read by our children's librarian and then enjoy an activity. FREE. Mondays, 2 – 3pm. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Sep 29, Oct 27, Nov 24
Family Story Time at Green Spring Gardens. Mondays. (All ages) 2 pm - 3 pm. Drop into the Children's Library Corner, listen to stories read by our children's librarian and then enjoy an activity. FREE. Mondays, 2 – 3pm Call 703 – 642 – 5173 for more information. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 27 and Nov 24
Family Story Time at Green Spring Gardens. (All ages) 2 pm - 3 pm. Drop into the Children's Library Corner, listen to stories read by our children's librarian and then enjoy an activity. FREE. 2 – 3pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 for more information. www.greenspring.org.

Nov 25
GateHouse Holiday Shop Open House at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 5 pm - 8 pm. Enjoy traditional mulled cider, butter cake and ginger cookies, the warmth of the open fire and Christmas music while you shop in the peaceful atmosphere at the Farm. 703.903.9330 www.1771.org.

Nov 25
Bloodmobile at Reston Town Center, presented by INOVA. 12 pm - 7:30 pm. 11900 Market Street, Reston. Presented fourth Tuesday of every month. Do a good deed and donate blood at Reston Town Center! Schedule an appointment at 1-866-256-6372 or www.inova.org/donateblood, then register onsite. Bloodmobile located beside the Pavilion.

Nov 26
Meet Me at the Movies – Senior Movie Day at Reston Town Center. 10 am. Presented fourth Wednesday of every month by Reston Association. Reston Association presents free, recent-run films for those over 55 years old. Doors open at 9:30 am for refreshments and door prizes. For information, call 703-435-6530. See the film schedule at www.restontowncenter.com.

Nov 28
Race for the Kids at Reston Town Center. 7:30 am. 11900 Market Street, Reston. Friday after Thanksgiving, November 28, presented by Neediest Kids and Reston Town Center. Kids join the fun and run "The Reston Mile" to benefit Neediest Kids. No entry fee. Visit www.neediestkids.org for sponsorship and registration information. Contact: www.restontowncenter.com.

Nov 28
Holiday Parade, Visits with Santa, Tree Lighting and Sing Along at Reston Town Center. 11 am. 11900 Market Street, Reston. Friday after Thanksgiving, November 28, presented by Reston Town Center. Reston hails the holiday season with the 18th annual Reston Holiday Parade featuring Santa and Mrs. Claus, Macy's-style balloons, musical groups, dancers, antique cars and more, making their merry way down Market Street. Afterward, children can meet Santa and have their photos taken from 12:30 – 4 pm. At 6 pm, Santa and Mrs. Claus magically light up Reston Town Center and the Christmas tree, then lead a community sing-along with the Reston Chorale and brass quintet. Horse-drawn carriage rides are offered until 10 pm. Call 703-689-4699 and visit www.restontowncenter.com.

Nov 28
Creature Feature. (All ages). 1 pm – 1:30 pm. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. How does the black rat snake prepare for the coming winter? Find out where wild snakes and turtles spend the winter and meet a black rat snake and eastern box turtle who will stay warm and awake at Hidden Oaks. Reservations required. Limit 20. $2/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Nov 28
The Thanksgiving Story. (3 yrs and up) 11 am – 11:40 am. Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703 – 437 – 9101. Bring the family and holiday guests to this lively, interactive retelling of the Thanksgiving Story. Glee Mania's Sue Counoyer entertains and informs while engaging everyone. Afterwards, work off some of your Thanksgiving feast strolling in the park. Pre – paid reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Nov 28
The Thanksgiving Story. (3 yrs and up) 11 am - 11:40 am, Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703-437-9101. Bring the family and holiday guests to this lively, interactive retelling of the Thanksgiving Story. Glee Mania’s Sue Counoyer entertains and informs while engaging everyone. Afterwards, work off some of your Thanksgiving feast strolling in the park. Pre-paid reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/.

Nov 28-30; Dec 5-7; Dec 12-14
Mount Vernon by Candlelight. Mrs. Washington hosts an enchanting evening of candlelit tours. Lantern-lit lanes, hot cider, and ginger cookies recall the charm of days gone by, while caroling around a roaring fire and early-American music bring merry melody to the holiday season. Ticket sales begin November 1 at Mount Vernon's Ford Orientation Center or online at MountVernon.org. 703.780.2000. www.mountvernon.org.

Nov 28 - Dec 21
Gatehouse Holiday Shop at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 10 am - 5 pm. Avoid the craziness of the malls and enjoy easy parking. Do your holiday gift shopping at the Farm while helping to support the only privately operated National Park in the United States. Choose from a unique selection of 18th century reproductions toys, housewares, jewelry, toiletries and consumables. All sales proceeds benefit the Farm's educational programs. 703.903.9330 www.1771.org.

Nov 29
The Reston Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 9 am – 2 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: Saturday, May 3 until Saturday December 6. Art, antiques, collectibles, artisan crafts, and entertainment by the lake. Free admission and free parking. Visit www.lakeanneplaza.com or www.therestonmarket.com.

Nov 29
Farmers Market at Lake Anne Village Center. 8 am - 12 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Open weekly: May10 through October 25, every Saturday. Lake Anne Village Center in Reston hosts a bustling marketplace for farmers and residents abundant with the sights, sounds, smells, and colors of an open-air produce market, also featuring fresh meats and dairy products. Have fun while supporting a 'green' economy--shop the Farmers Market! Visit www.restonfarmersmarket.com or www.lakeanneplaza.com.

Nov 29, 30
A Chanticleer Christmas. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $48, $40, $24. Dec 29 at 8 pm, Dec 30 at 2 pm. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Nov 30
Turkey Walk. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. Work off Thanksgiving dinner! Join a naturalist in the cedar forest to look for turkeys and their signs, and discover some of their habits and secret ways. 2:30 – 3:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 Reservations required. $3/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.