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

Events

2008 Calendar of Events

October 2008

Oct TBA
Mason District Flea Market. 9 am - 1 pm, Mason District Park, 703-941-1730. Clean out the dusty corners of your attic and garage and turn your used goods into cash! Shoppers can find one-of-a-kind treasures at bargain prices. Vendor fee: $20 per space; $10 per table. Vendors should register early. Make registration check payable to Friends of Mason District Park. In case of bad weather, call the park before 9am the morning of the event. FREE to shoppers. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/omp.htm.

May 1 – mid-October
Tail-Waggin Party Fun! – For birthdays, new adoptions, or just because! You are barking up the right tree if you're looking for some fun for your four-legged family member and friends. Celebrate your pooch's special day in style! Parties held inside a fenced enclosure and include two-hour use of the party tent and a one-hour private dog cruise on the lake. Party game supplies are also provided. Entire party package just $75 Call 703-569-0285 for more information. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 1
Farmer's Market Frying Pan Farm Park. 8 am - 12:30 pm. Located at 2709 West Ox Road, in front of Frying Pan Country Store. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 1
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 1
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.

Oct 2
Workshop: Farm Animals at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 6 pm – 8 pm. Meet the Farm's animals up close and personal! Learn how to correctly handle each of the animals, plus some history of each of the breeds. Clothing that can get dirty is recommended. $5 fee; reservations required. 703.903.9330 Contact kjackson@1771.org.

Oct 2
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 2
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.

Oct 2
Puppet Show for Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill. 1 pm. Geared for children 3 – 5 years old. Meet Marvin the Miller and his puppet friends to learn how the mill works and how grain is ground. Afterwards feed the hungry ducks on the millpond. No reservations required. $4 child, adult FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 2
Putting the Animals to Bed. Frying Pan Farm Park (3 – 6 yrs accompanied by an adult) 7 pm - 8 pm. When evening shadows spread over the Kidwell Farm, it is time to put the animals to bed. Bring a flashlight or lantern for this twilight tour and learn how our farm animals settle down for the night. Pre – paid reservations required. Canceled if rain. $4. 7 – 8pm. 703 – 437 – 9101 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Oct 3 Spinning & Dyeing Day at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 1 pm – 4 pm. How do you go from sheep to clothing? Come help the farm family as they card, spin, and dye wool for knitting. Compare wool processing with flax, and note the differences in how they are prepared. Weather permitting - call ahead. 703.903.9330 www.1771.org.

Oct 3
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 3
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.

Oct 3 – 4
Riverside Camping. (Families) 6pm Friday – 9am Saturday, Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Shake the dust out of your camping gear and head over to Riverbend Park. Bring the kids, toasting sticks and a dinner to cook over the campfire. Take a night hike and enjoy s'mores around the campfire. Light breakfast provided. Canceled if rain. Reservations and advance payment required. $45/family www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Oct 3, 4 & 5
Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour at Mount Vernon. Enjoy live blues and spectacular views of the Potomac River while sampling wine from 16 Virginia wineries. Tour the Mansion and meet "George and Martha Washington". Ticket sales begin September 1 at Mount Vernon's Ford Orientation Center or online at MountVernon.org. 703.780.2000. www.mountvernon.org.

October 3, 4, and 5
ValeArts Fall Art Show at the historic Vale Schoolhouse. Nine artists from Fairfax County exhibit more than 150 original works of art at historic Vale Schoolhouse in Oakton. ValeArts presents this Fall Art Show for the 13th year at this location. The art is all original and varied in style and subject matter. Guest artists: S. Norman and F.P. Gertsch. Free admission and free parking. 10-9 PM Friday, 10-6 Saturday and Sunday. 703 860 1888 www.valearts.com.

Oct 4
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm. West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Oct 4
Light the Night Walk at Reston Town Center. 11900 Market Street, Reston. Saturday, October 4, presented by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Celebrate and commemorate lives touched by cancer in the Light the Night Walk, to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. For registration and information, call 703-960-1100 or visit www.leukemia-lymphoma.org.

Oct 4
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.

Oct 4
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.

Oct 4
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 4
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.

Oct 4
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 4
Endless Summer. 7 pm - 11 pm. A benefit concert and dinner to support the programs of Good Shepoherd Housing and Family Services. $45 703-768-9404 www.goodhousing.org.

Oct 4
Shakespeare & Company. Hamlet. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $36, $28, $18. 703.993.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Oct 4
WALK WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS ON OCT. 4 TO HELP FIND A CURE! 5:30 pm. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's National Capital Area Chapter invites everyone – children, adults, and seniors – to participate in the Reston "Light The Nightwww.f" Walk on Saturday, October 4. Beginning at 5:30 pm at the Reston Town Center, this annual event will raise funds to cure blood cancers and to bring help and hope to thousands of patients and their families. During the Walk, teams of co – workers, businesses, neighborhoods, friends and families gather to share stories and walk while holding illuminated balloons honoring patients and survivors of blood cancer. There is no fundraising minimum, but the Society recommends a $25 donation to participate. Incentives are available for those who raise between $100 and $10,000 ranging from t – shirts to HD TVs. Corporate sponsorship packages are also available. Other Light the Night walks are scheduled in Loudoun Co., Washington D.C., Prince William Co., and Montgomery Co. throughout October. For more information about the Walk or to register, contact the National Capital Area Chapter of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at 703 – 960 – 1100, or visit www.lightthenight.org/nca.

Oct 4
Workshop: Trough Garden from Hyper – tufa at Green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 11:30 am. Create a "stone" trough out of hyper – tufa for a natural – looking container that's ideal for succulents, conifers and fussy rock garden plants. Green Spring staffers explain the process, share planting tips and care information, and lead you through the construction. $50. 9:30 – 11:30am. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 4
Family Fun: Harry Potter's Plants and Potions at Green Spring Gardens. 2 pm - 3:30 pm. Children (5 yrs. and up) with accompanying adult(s ). Calling all Muggles! Conjure up some magic in our gardens as we explore the magical powers of Harry Potter's favorite plants. Craft your own wizards' wand and collect recipes for potions – just in time for Halloween! $10/project. 2 – 3:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 4
Watercolor Series: Painting Red Flowers at Green Spring Gardens. Discover how to paint red flowers. Artist Carolyn Grossé Gawarecki demonstrates how layering colors and unusual techniques are combined to create vibrant, realistic flowers on canvas. Morning demonstration by the artist is followed by an afternoon workshop. Bring a bag lunch. $65. 9:30am – 3:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 4
Hispanics in the American Revolution. 12 pm – 4 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. Did you know that Hispanics were significant contributors to the success of the American colonies in their struggle for independence from Great Britain? Spanish – speaking troops from North and South America, the Caribbean and the Iberian Peninsula fought on the American side during the Revolutionary War. A letter from General Bernardo de Galvez to Patrick Henry, then governor of Virginia, pledged support for the colonies by providing intelligence information, money and supplies to the American cause. The recreated Spanish Louisiana Regiment presents scenes of 18th century military and civilian life including tactical demonstrations, musket firing, drill and camp life. $6/adult, $4/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Oct 4
Ancient Arts – Colonial Carpentry. (14 yrs. and up). 9 am – 11 am. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 703 – 631 – 0013. Interpreters in period attire guide your use of the draw knife, maul, froe, bit and brace, axe, frame saw, ades and other colonial – era tools. During this hands – on workshop, practice carpentry skills from the 1700s while helping to construct wooden park benches. The skills you learn can be used to build furniture or log homes. Bring work gloves and wear comfortable clothes for outdoor work. Reservation and advanced payment required by 9/26. $18/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 4
Tagging Monarch Butterflies. (5 yrs. and up). 11 am – 12:15 pm. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. (SEE 9/27.) Reservations and advanced payment required. $6/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Oct 4
Oak Hill History Day. (All ages) 12 pm – 5 pm. Oak Hill, 4716 Wakefield Chapel Road, Annandale. Enjoy a visit to the past as you stroll along the grounds of Oak Hill, a late 18th century mansion built by Richard Fitzhugh and visited by President Thomas Jefferson. Listen to an interpretive history of Oak Hill and the Civil War in Fairfax County. Interactive activities for children; Braddock's True Gold, a history of Braddock District in the 20th century, will be available for purchase, as will bus tickets for a future bus tour of historic sites in Fairfax County. Refreshments will be available. Free; for more information, call Lake Accotink Park, 703 – 569 – 0285. annandale.va.us/history.html.

Oct 4
Ancient Arts – Colonial Carpentry (14 yrs. and up) 9 am - 11 am. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Interpreters in period attire guide your use of the draw knife, maul, froe, bit and brace, axe, frame saw, ades and other colonial – era tools. During this hands – on workshop, practice carpentry skills from the 1700s while helping to construct wooden park benches. The skills you learn can be used to build furniture or log homes. Bring work gloves and wear comfortable clothes for outdoor work. Reservation and advanced payment required by 9/26. $18/person 9 – 11am. 703 – 631 – 0013 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 4
Oak Hill History Day. (All ages) 12 pm - 5 pm, Oak Hill, 4716 Wakefield Chapel Road, Annandale. Enjoy a visit to the past as you stroll along the grounds of Oak Hill, a late 18th century mansion built by Richard Fitzhugh and visited by President Thomas Jefferson. Listen to an interpretive history of Oak Hill and the Civil War in Fairfax County. Interactive activities for children; Braddock’s True Gold, a history of Braddock District in the 20th century, will be available for purchase, as will bus tickets for a future bus tour of historic sites in Fairfax County. Refreshments will be available. Free; for more information, call Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-0285. annandale.va.us/history.html.

Oct 4
Hispanics in the American Revolution. 12 pm - 4 pm. Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151, 703-437-1794. Did you know that Hispanics were significant contributors to the success of the American colonies in their struggle for independence from Great Britain? Spanish speaking troops from North and South America, the Caribbean, and the Iberian Peninsula fought on the American side during The Revolutionary War. A letter from General Bernardo de Galvez to Patrick Henry, then governor of Virginia, pledged support for the colonies by providing intelligence information, money and supplies to the American cause. The recreated Spanish Louisiana Regiment presents scenes of 18th century military and civilian life including tactical demonstrations, musket firing, drill, and camp life. $6/adult, $4/child. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/Sully/.

Oct 5
Pope-Leighey Tech Tour. 703.780.4000. www.popeleighey1940.org.

Oct 5
AFSP Walk. Reston.

Oct 5
Introduction to Fly Fishing (14 yrs. and up) Sunday, October 5, 11am – 2:30pm, Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Bring your own fully – rigged rod and reel, or rent one from the instructor, and learn casting, knots, tackle and gear, fly selection and how to read the water. $5 supply fee. Reservations required. $50 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley" target="_blank">www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 5
A Woman's Handiwork: Stitches in Time Tea Program. 1 pm. Artist and collector, Caroline Hottenstein displays her collection of antique hand – sewing tools and links them to different styles of needlework. See fine examples of antique lace, embroidery, linens, beadwork, and clothing and hear about the historical importance of needlework in women's lives. Choose only the program or follow the program with either a full English tea OR a basic embroidery lesson, led by Ms. Hottenstein. Linen, needles, and embroidery floss provided. Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. 1 – 3:30pm. Program only, 1 – 2:30pm. $12. Program plus Embroidery Lesson, 1 – 3:30pm, $20 or Program plus Tea, 1 – 3:30pm: $30 www.greenspring.org.

Oct 5
Grinding Grain Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill in September and October. 12 pm – 3 pm. The miller will be grinding every Sunday, weather and water conditions permitting. Please call ahead for more information. Tour: $6 adults, $5 student 16 and up with ID, $4 child and seniors www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 5
Bread and Honey. 2 pm – 4pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Beekeepers Toni Burnham and Patrick Standiford demonstrate the process involved in harvesting honey. Sample honey on cornbread made from our cornmeal. An observation hive with live bees available for viewing. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 5
Historic Recreation. (All ages). 3 pm – 4 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Discover what Virginians did for fun before television. Learn about different games and pastimes and then try them out. Reservations required $3 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Oct 5
Cardinal Flowers and Goldenrods. 10 am - 11:30 am. Stroll with a member of the Virginia Native Plant Society to view splendid fall wildflowers along the stream and meadow by Cabell's Mill. 10 – 11:30am, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Cabell's Mill, 703 – 631 – 0013 Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 5
Introduction to Fly Fishing. (14 yrs. and up) 11 am – 2:30 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Bring your own fully – rigged rod and reel, or rent one from the instructor, and learn casting, knots, tackle and gear, fly selection and how to read the water. Supply fee of $5 paid to the instructor. Reservations required. $50 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 5
Art Show Opening "Connections."2 pm – 4pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Meet painter and printmaker Lyndia Terre at the opening of a retrospective show of nature etchings and paintings inspired by Huntley Meadows Park and more. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 5
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 5
MPAartfest. (all ages) 10 am – 5 pm. McLean Central Park, 703 – 790 – 1953 (Mclean Project for the Arts). The MPAartfest will transform McLean Central Park into a lively landscape of mini – art galleries showcasing and offering for sale the work of 40 juried artists displaying paintings, drawings, prints, ceramics, jewelry, photography and sculpture. MPAartfest includes fun activities to captivate art – lovers of all ages. You can stroll through the Children's ArtWalk to admire the work of young artists from McLean area schools, and budding artists can create their own works of art at the Children's Art Tent. Talented seniors will showcase their artistic talent in the New Dimensions exhibit, and adults can learn about contemporary art concepts at the ArtSmart Tent. The Gazebo Stage will be swinging with a variety of live performances throughout the day. Free, with free parking and shuttle buses. (If inclement weather, the MPAartfest will be move indoors to the McLean Community Center.) www.mcleancenter.org.

Oct 5
Scarecrow Making Workshop. 1 pm – 2 pm or 2 pm – 3 pm. Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703 – 437 – 9101. Enjoy making a scarecrow. Bring an outfit and a pair of pantyhose for each scarecrow. We supply special touches for faces. Held outdoors, dress for the weather. Pre – paid reservations required. Canceled if rain. $7 for one scarecrow/family, plus $5/additional scarecrow www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Oct 5
Farm Harvest Day at Kidwell Farm. 10 am – 3 pm. Frying Pan Farm Park, Visitor Center 703 – 437 – 9101. Fall is a busy and fun time on the farm. Milk a goat, shell corn, peel apples and meet farm animals. Paint a small pumpkin, play farm games and see traditional farm demonstrations. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Oct 5
Bread and Honey. 2 pm - 4 pm. Colvin Run Mill. Beekeepers Toni Burnham and Patrick Standiford demonstrate the process involved in harvesting honey. Sample honey on cornbread made from our cornmeal. An observation hive with live bees available for viewing. FREE 2 – 4pm. 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 5
MPAartfest. (all ages) 10 am - 5 pm, McLean Central Park, 703- 790-1953 (Mclean Project for the Arts). The MPAartfest will transform McLean Central Park into a lively landscape of mini-art galleries showcasing and offering for sale the work of 40 juried artists displaying paintings, drawings, prints, ceramics, jewelry, photography and sculpture. MPAartfest includes fun activities to captivate art-lovers of all ages. You can stroll through the Children’s ArtWalk to admire the work of young artists from McLean area schools, and budding artists can create their own works of art at the Children’s Art Tent. Talented seniors will showcase their artistic talent in the New Dimensions exhibit, and adults can learn about contemporary art concepts at the ArtSmart Tent. The Gazebo Stage will be swinging with a variety of live performances throughout the day. Free, with free parking and shuttle buses. (If inclement weather, the MPAartfest will be move indoors to the McLean Community Center.) www.mcleancenter.org.

Oct 5
Scarecrow Making Workshop. 1 pm - 2 pm or 2 pm - 3 pm, Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703-437-9101. Enjoy making a scarecrow. Bring an outfit and a pair of pantyhose for each scarecrow. We supply special touches for faces. Held outdoors, dress for the weather. Pre-paid reservations required. Canceled if rain. $7 for one scarecrow/family, plus $5/additional scarecrow www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/.

Oct 5
Farm Harvest Day at Kidwell Farm. 10 am - 3 pm, Frying Pan Farm Park, Visitor Center 703-437-9101. Fall is a busy and fun time on the farm. Milk a goat, shell corn, peel apples and meet farm animals. Paint a small pumpkin, play farm games and see traditional farm demonstrations. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/.

Oct 5
13th Annual "Paws for a Cause" 3K Walk. Fairfax Pets on Wheels is raising funds to support pet therapy for long-term care residents. Proceeds from the walk will go toward recruitment and training, volunteer activities, and insurance. All registered participants will receive a "Paws for a Cause" t-shirt. There will be human and canine treats at each kilometer and sponsored walkers are encouraged. The doggone fun begins at noon at Weber's Pet Supermarket, 11021 Lee Highway in Fairfax. Registration is $15 prior to September 11th and $20 thereafter. Potential walkers and businesses interested in providing sponsorship or donating gifts for participants should call (703) 324-5406 for more information, or go to www.fpow.org.

Oct 6
Nature Snoopers – Apple Trees at Walney. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. (Visit the Walney apple orchard and help park staff care for the trees. Learn about the importance of apples to Walney farm. Peel and core some apples, zap them in the microwave and then enjoy applesauce! 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 6
Nature Quest – Rocks and Minerals. (3 – 6 yrs.). 10 am – 11:30 am. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Young folks learn about rocks and minerals with a rock hunt, geode breaking and other hands – on activities. No boring lectures to make them scream in terror. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Sep 8, 15, 22, 29, and Oct 6, 20
Yoga for Gardeners at Green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 10:30 am. Gentle Introduction to Vinyasa Yoga Session 1: Mondays. 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.

Oct 7
City of Fairfax Farmers Market. 8 am – 12 pm. Van Dyck Park, 3730 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. 703.642.0128 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 7
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.

Oct 7
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.

Oct 7
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.

Oct 8
Reston Home Tour, 7th Annual. 10 am - 5 pm. Via Reston Museum, 1639 Washington Plaza, Lake Anne Village Center, Reston. Saturday, October 18, presented by Reston Historic Trust. Each year since 2002, the Reston Historic Trust selects five exciting private homes to present a public self-conducted tour of the unique interior design and architecture in the neighborhoods of Reston. A map and information are published on the tour ticket purchased from the Reston Museum, which is the beneficiary of the event. Tour-goers also receive keepsake programs that include art, information, and history of the homes and owners. Call 703-709-7700 and visit www.restonmuseum.org.

Oct 8
Farmer's Market Frying Pan Farm Park. 8 am - 12:30 pm. Located at 2709 West Ox Road, in front of Frying Pan Country Store. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 8
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 8
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.

Oct 9
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 9
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.

Oct 9
Puppet Show for Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill. 1 pm. Geared for children 3 – 5 years old. Meet Marvin the Miller and his puppet friends to learn how the mill works and how grain is ground. Afterwards feed the hungry ducks on the millpond. No reservations required. $4 child, adult FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 9
Garden Stroll and Tea at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. Take a relaxing stroll through the gardens and enjoy a tea at the Historic House. This is a delightful introduction to the mission and history of Green Spring Gardens, one of the preeminent places for horticulture in the Washington, D.C. area. The docent – led tours of our demonstration gardens are followed by a full English afternoon tea. Individuals and groups are welcome. $25/individual. 1 – 3pm. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Oct 10
Bonita Lestina Performance Series. 8 pm. Old Town Hall, 3999 University Drive, Fairfax. 703.352.ARTS www.fairfaxarts.org.

Oct 10
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 10
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.

Oct 10
Basic Gardening Series: Native Plants in the Landscape at Green Spring Gardens. 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm. Learn the basics of incorporating native plants into your landscape and discover the beauty and importance of plants that are native to this region. Green Spring's Master Gardeners share their gardening tips and time – saving techniques on working with native plants. $12. 1:30 – 2:30pm Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 10
Ponderings – My Best Friends are Trees. (6 – 12 yrs.) 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. From fruit to nuts, to pretty leaves and the homes they provide for wildlife, Naturalist Brian shows kids how important trees are to every living thing. Tree hugging allowed, Brian does it all the time. Canceled if rain. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Oct 10, 11
Song and Dance Ensemble of West Africa. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $46, $38, $23. 703.993.8888 www.gmu.edu.

Oct 11
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm. West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Oct 11
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.

Oct 11
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.

Oct 11
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 11
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.

Oct 11
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 11
City of Fairfax Fall Festival. 10 am – 5 pm. Old Town Fairfax. $ 703.385.7858 www.fairfaxva.gov/SpecialEents/SpecialEvents.asp.

Oct 11
Fall is for Apples at Green Spring Gardens. 11 am. The warm aroma of baking apples in the kitchen is a sure sign of fall. Green Spring horticulturist, Cindy Brown, introduces you to the multitude of apple varieties, shares techniques for growing apples, and provides tips for making selections. Learn the role of apples in Green Spring's history and enjoy sampling different apples to compare their colors, favors, and textures. Program only, 11am – noon, $15 or Program plus Tea, 11am – 1pm, $30. Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 11
Designing with Perennials: Time and Your Garden at Green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 11 am. 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 class combines indoor presentations with outdoor explorations. $18. 9:30 – 11am. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 11
Fall is for Apples at Green Spring Gardens. The warm aroma of baking apples in the kitchen is a sure sign of fall. Green Spring horticulturist, Cindy Brown, introduces you to the multitude of apple varieties, shares techniques for growing apples, and provides tips for making selections. Learn the role of apples in Green Spring's history and enjoy sampling different apples to compare their colors, favors, and textures. Program only, 11am – noon, $15 or Program plus Tea, 11am – 1pm, $30. 11am – 1pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 11
Potomac Heritage Trail Hike at Scotts Run. 9 am - 12 pm. Geological processes have created a mountain – like environment right in Fairfax County. This naturalist – led hike takes you on a five – mile scenic journey through Scotts Run Nature Preserve past tall hemlock trees, mountain laurel and overlooks above the Potomac River. (7 yrs. and up), 9am – noon, Scotts Run Nature Preserve Meet at the west parking lot at Scott's Run. Reservations and advanced payment required. $9 Call 703 – 759 – 9018 (Riverbend Park) for information. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 11
Scarecrow Making. 12 pm – 2pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Make a friend for your garden or lawn. Bring pants and shirt for your new friend and an old pair of panty hose (for head and body). We supply the stuffing and know – how. $6/scarecrow www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 11
Birth of a Wetland. (Families) 10 am – 12 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Walk along woodland streams with Park Manager Kevin Munroe tracing the wetland from its beginning in the Woodstone neighborhood down Barnyard Run to the marsh boardwalk. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $6/adult, $4/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 11
Can You Canoe? (8 yrs. and up) 1 pm – 3 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703 – 569 – 0285. SEE Sept. 6 description. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Oct 11
NEW! Designing with Perennials Series at Green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 11 am. Session 2: 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.

Oct 11
Can You Canoe? (8 yrs. and up) 1 pm – 3 pm, Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-0285. SEE Sept. 6 description. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Oct 11 and 12
Video – Eagles. 1 pm – 1:45 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Follow a family of bald eagles as the adults make their nest, raise their chicks and coax them to fly. Enjoy spectacular aerial photography, natural sounds and original music during this 45 – minute video. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 11
Scarecrow Making. 12 pm - 2 pm. Colvin Run Mill. Make a friend for your garden or lawn. Bring pants and shirt for your new friend and an old pair of panty hose (for head and body). We supply the stuffing and know – how. $6/scarecrow. Noon – 2pm 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 11-12
Fall Market Days at Woodlawn Plantation. 10 am – 5 pm. 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.

Oct 12
The Big Sit – Birds on the Move. (All ages) 8 am – 5 pm. Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Stop by as the Riverbend birding crew counts birds for this national event. Check the tally as the count gets higher and higher. Money raised from the event helps support the programs at Riverbend Park. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Oct 12
Grinding Grain Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill in September and October. 12 pm – 3 pm. The miller will be grinding every Sunday, weather and water conditions permitting. Please call ahead for more information. Tour: $6 adults, $5 student 16 and up with ID, $4 child and seniors www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 12
Scarecrow Making. 1 pm – 3pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. (SEE 10/11.) $6/scarecrow www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 12
NEW! When American Indians Hunted on this Land (Families with children 5 yrs. and up). 1 pm – 2 pm. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Join a discussion with a Fairfax County archaeologist on the recent artifacts found in several locations in Annandale District Park. Learn what these shards indicate regarding how this land may have been used over a thousand years ago. Reservations and advanced payment required. $5/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Oct 12
Scarecrow Making. 1 pm - 3 pm. Colvin Run Mill $6/scarecrow 1 – 3pm 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 13
Magic and Clown Stage Show. 10:30 am – 11:15 am. Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703 – 437 – 9101. Join Magictainment in a delightful and entertaining presentation featuring magical illusions and a whimsical clown show. Pre – paid reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Oct 13
Magic and Clown Stage Show. 10:30 am - 11:15 am, Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703-437-9101. Join Magictainment in a delightful and entertaining presentation featuring magical illusions and a whimsical clown show. Pre-paid reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/.

Oct 14
City of Fairfax Farmers Market. 8 am – 12 pm. Van Dyck Park, 3730 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. 703.642.0128 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 14
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.

Oct 15
Farmer's Market Frying Pan Farm Park. 8 am - 12:30 pm. Located at 2709 West Ox Road, in front of Frying Pan Country Store. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 15
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 15
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.

Oct 15
One – Stroke Painting/Landscape Workshop with High Definition Paint. (13 yrs and up) 10 am – 1 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703 – 569 – 0285. Perfect for the painter who wants to try painting with the look of oils but the ease of acrylics. Try your hand at simple but elegant brush strokes using this newest award – winning acrylic paint that has the look of oils without the odor, cleans up easier and has a quick drying time. Supply fee of $25, payable at the beginning of class, covers the use of paint brushes, paint and canvas. Optional supplies for ongoing practice may be purchased from the instructor. Registration required; $30 fee payable in advance. Refunds only if workshop cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Oct 15
Pet First Aid and CPR at Lake Accotink Park. 7 pm - 8:30 pm. When disaster strikes your four – legged family 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.

Oct 15
One-Stroke Painting/Landscape Workshop with High Definition Paint. (13 yrs and up) 10 am - 1 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-0285. Perfect for the painter who wants to try painting with the look of oils but the ease of acrylics. Try your hand at simple but elegant brush strokes using this newest award-winning acrylic paint that has the look of oils without the odor, cleans up easier and has a quick drying time. Supply fee of $25, payable at the beginning of class, covers the use of paint brushes, paint and canvas. Optional supplies for ongoing practice may be purchased from the instructor. Registration required; $30 fee payable in advance. Refunds only if workshop cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Oct 16
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 16
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.

Oct 16
Puppet Show for Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill. 1 pm. Geared for children 3 – 5 years old. Meet Marvin the Miller and his puppet friends to learn how the mill works and how grain is ground. Afterwards feed the hungry ducks on the millpond. No reservations required. $4 child, adult FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 16
A Scottish Afternoon Tea at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. Braveheart, bagpipes, and the Loch Ness MonsterÉ Think you know a lot about Scotland? Uncover some surprising realities of Scotland's history, traditions and roots. And if your roots are Scottish, learn how to trace your ancestry back to the village or glen where you began! Enjoy an afternoon full of all – things Scottish, including some delicious teatime delicacies. $25 1 – 3pm. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Oct 17
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 17
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.

Oct 17
Virginia Opera Il Trovatore. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $86, $72, $44 –Friday and $98, $80, $48—Sunday. 8 pm on Fri. Oct.17, and 2 pm on Sun. Oct 19. 703.993.8888 www.gmu.edu.

Oct 17
Ancient Arts – Dutch Oven Cooking. (Adults). 6 pm – 8pm. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 703 – 631 – 0013. Cooking on an open flame isn't just for barbequing. Residents of the park in the 18th and 19th centuries used open fire hearths for cooking. Interpreters in period attire assist you in making a stew for dinner and a cobbler for dessert using a Dutch oven. Bring your appetite. Learn techniques for cooking with these ovens then and now. Enjoy stories around the fire while dinner cooks. Reservation and advanced payment required by 10/20. $10/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 17
Ponderings – Sting Things. (6 – 12 yrs.) 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Fall still poses some threats when it comes to creatures that can sting you. Naturalist Brian, who recently stepped barefoot onto a yellow jackets' nest, gives participants a lesson on how to be careful, by learning what is out there that stings. And you'll use a microscope to look at what's in hornet's venom to better understand why Brian needed a bandage on his sore feet. Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Oct 17
Riverside Campfire – Tour the Universe. (Families) 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Riverbend Park Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Look through the telescope at deep sky objects and enjoy stories and games about the night sky. S'mores provided. Come early if you want to bring a picnic or toast hotdogs. Bring a toasting stick, blanket and flashlight. Canceled if rain. Reservations and advanced payment required. $3/personwww.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Oct 17
Ancient Arts – Dutch Oven Cooking. (Adults) 6 pm - 8 pm. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park. Cooking on an open flame isn't just for barbequing. Residents of the park in the 18th and 19th centuries used open fire hearths for cooking. Interpreters in period attire assist you in making a stew for dinner and a cobbler for dessert using a Dutch oven. Bring your appetite. Learn techniques for cooking with these ovens then and now. Enjoy stories around the fire while dinner cooks. Reservation and advanced payment required by 10/20. $10/person. 6 – 8pm. 703 – 631 – 0013. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 18
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm. West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Oct 18
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 18
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 18
Turtle Island dQuartet with Sergio and Odair Assad/String Theory. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. The Grammy Award-winning Turtle Island Quartet has been a singular force in the creation of bold, new trends in chamber music for strings. $42, $34, $21. Gamily Friendly: Children 12 and under half price. 703.933.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Oct 18
Watershed Clean – Up Day. 9 am – 11:30 am. Be part of the pollution solution! Individuals, students, families, scouts and other community groups can help clear out the earth's arteries by collecting tires, bed springs, bottles, cans and other debris. Wear boots, old clothes and bring gloves. Trash bags and appreciation provided. SEE Nature for details. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 18 & 19
Fall Harvest Family Days at Mount Vernon. The four-acre George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site celebrates the harvest with a cornucopia of family fun, including free wagon rides and a straw bale maze. Meet "General Washington", make a cornhusk doll, and learn 18th-century dance steps. Potomac River sightseeing cruises are available half-price, courtesy of Spirit Cruises and Potomac Riverboat Company. 703.780.2000. www.mountvernon.org.

Oct 18
Fall Foliage Tea & Tour at Woodlawn Plantation. 1 pm. Seating 703.780.4000. www.woodlawn1805.org.

Oct 18
Autumn Adventure at Reston Town Center. 12 pm - 5 pm. 11900 Market Street, Reston. Saturday, October 18, presented by Reston Town Center, benefits Reston Interfaith. Enjoy horse-drawn hayrides, a hay maze, living scarecrows, amazing face painting, arts and craft making, and more at Autumn Adventure at Reston Town Center! Children are invited to march in a costume parade, join a costume contest, and enjoy trick or treating at participating merchants. Tickets for all of the day's events are $5 per child, or $20 per family, to benefit Reston Interfaith. For information, visit www.restontowncenter.com.

Oct 18
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.

Oct 18
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.

Oct 18
Hollin Hall Senior Center Annual Bazaar. Hollin Hall Senior Center is holding a MEGA CRAFT SALE with Over 30 crafters, huge silent auction with services and new merchandise, a terrific bake sale, door prizes and lunch will be featured. This is our main fundraising event of the year. Admission is free. 1500 Shenandoah Road, Alexandria, VA 22308. Call 703-765-4573 or TTY/711 for more information and/or ADA accommodations. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/rec.

Oct 18
Cheese – Tasting Party at Green Spring Gardens. 10:30 am - 12 pm. Broaden your cheese horizons. Sample a range of cheeses – mild, strong, soft, hard, young, and long – aged – from different countries. Find out how cheese is made and classified, where to find different cheeses and how to store and serve them. Tasting parties do not include a full English tea. $20/individual tasting. 10:30am – noon. Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 18
Floral Design: A Vase with Pizzazz at Green Spring Gardens. 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. 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. $48. 10:30am – 12:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 18
Watershed Clean – Up Day. 9 am - 11:30 am. Be part of the International Coastal Cleanup! Individuals, students, families, scouts and other community groups can help clear out the earth's arteries by collecting tires, bed springs, bottles, cans and other debris. Give the waterways in your community a clean bill of health and earn the gratitude of your furred, feathered and scaled neighbors. Wear boots, old clothes and bring gloves. 9 – 11:30am Trash bags and appreciation provided. This is a great community project! Help at one of these sites. Please call to reserve a section of the watershed.; Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065 (Roundtree Park – Holmes Run); Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588 (Pohick Creek) ; Huntley Meadows Park, 703 – 768 – 2525 (Little Hunting Creek); Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018 (Potomac River): Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794 (Cain's Branch); Walney Visitor Center in Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 703 – 631 – 0013, repeated 1 – 3pm (Flatlick Branch, Big Rocky Run, Cub Run and Frog Branch) www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 18
Fear – less Fest. (4 yrs. and up with adult). 7 pm – 9 pm. Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Join a costumed naturalist for a night hike along the trail and meet some misunderstood costumed creatures of the night who explain why they have scary reputations. Dispel myths while enjoying an evening adventure with live animals, activities and crafts. Great activity for scouts. Reservations and advanced payment required. Rain date: 10/25. $5/child, $2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Oct 18
Farm Harvest Day at Kidwell Farm. 10 am - 3 pm. Frying Pan Farm Park. Fall is a busy time on the farm. Milk a goat, shell corn, peel and press apples, and meet the farm animals. SEE Events. $5 10am – 3pm. 703 – 437 – 9101 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Oct 18
Watershed Clean-Up Day. 9 am - 11:30 am. Be part of the pollution solution! Individuals, students, families, scouts and other community groups can help clear out the earth’s arteries by collecting tires, bed springs, bottles, cans and other debris. Wear boots, old clothes and bring gloves. Trash bags and appreciation provided. SEE Nature for details. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 18 & 19
Autumn 18th Century Market Fair at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 11 am – 4:30 pm. Warm yourself by the fire and enjoy the splendor of fall with crisp local apples, warm savory meat pies and hearty breads. Let Market Fair entertainers, tradesmen and the militia amuse and educate you. Have your fortune told or purchase a charm from the Gypsy Fortune Teller. Allow Mistress Barrow and Mr. John to entice you with their wares at the Dry Goods and the Gentlemen's Goods stand. Learn to dip a candle or turn a piece of wood on the carpenter's lathe. Stop by the Tavern for a cup of mulled wine before you begin your holiday shopping at the many tradesmen's and merchant's stalls. Period food, beverages and wares are available for purchase. Special Event Admission applies. Get a Pass for 50% Off Admission to the Market Fair. Weather permitting - call ahead. 703.903.9330 www.1771.org.

Oct 18 & 19
Fifth Annual Great Falls Art Studio Tour. 10 am - 5 pm. Self-guided driving tour to visit 38 painters, potters, sculptors and other artists in home studios on scenic back roads in Great Falls. Watch the creative process at work. Many studios are located in barns, historic buildings or unusual houses. Art exhibits at other venues. FREE, 10:00 to 5:00. Download a map and directory at www.GreatFallsStudios.com or pick up a free program on Tour days at any venue (marked by signs throughout Great Falls). (703) 404 9774.

Oct 19
Twilight Tour of Pope-Leighey House. Time TBA. 703.780.4000. www.popeleighey1940.org.

Oct 19
Virginia Opera Il Trovatore. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $86, $72, $44 –Friday and $98, $80, $48—Sunday. 8 pm on Fri. Oct.17, and 2 pm on Sun. Oct 19. 703.993.8888 www.gmu.edu.

Oct 19
Grinding Grain Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill in September and October. 12 pm – 3 pm. The miller will be grinding every Sunday, weather and water conditions permitting. Please call ahead for more information. Tour: $6 adults, $5 student 16 and up with ID, $4 child and seniors www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 19
Mill Run Dulcimer Band Concert. 2 pm – 4pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Spread your blanket atop the fallen leaves and listen to the last outdoor concert of the season. The band moves to the barn if the weather is blustery. FREE, donations accepted www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 19
Holding the Past in the Present. 1 pm – 3 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. Hold Sully in your hands. Budding archaeologists or historians will dig this! Use archaeological methods and techniques to see what you can find and discover how Sully's history has been reconstructed. Examine artifacts found at Sully and figure out how they were used. House tour not included. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Oct 19
Historic Huntley Fall Open House. 2 pm – 4 pm. Historic Huntley. Call 703 – 768 – 2525 (Huntley Meadows Visitor Center) for information. Sponsored by Friends of Historic Huntley. FREE.

Oct 19
Points in History: The Stories of Cub Run and Pleasant Valley. (10 yrs. and up). 3 pm – 4 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Uncover the lives of the people who once lived where the RECenter now stands and learn about their communities in Pleasant Valley. Reservations required $3 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Oct 19
Batty Campfire. 7 am - 8:30 am. Enjoy a night hike to learn about native bats and their habitats. Use a bat detector to hear bats communicate and locate food. Settle by the campfire to sip hot chocolate and roast marshmallows. (Families), 7 – 8:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013. Reservations required. $10/family www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 19
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
Mill Run Dulcimer Band Concert. 2 pm - 4 pm. Colvin Run Mill. Spread your blanket atop the fallen leaves and listen to the last outdoor concert of the season. The band moves to the barn if the weather is blustery. FREE, donations accepted 2 – 4pm. 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 19
Holding the Past in the Present. 1 pm - 3 pm. Sully Historic Site. Hold Sully in your hands. Budding archaeologists or historians will dig this! Use archaeological methods and techniques to see what you can find and discover how Sully's history has been reconstructed. Examine artifacts found at Sully and figure out how they were used. House tour not included. $5 1 – 3pm 703 – 437 – 1794 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Oct 19
Holding the Past in the Present. 1 pm - 3 pm. Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151, 703-437-1794. Hold Sully in your hands. Budding archaeologists or historians will dig this! Use archaeological methods and techniques to see what you find, and discover how Sully's history has been reconstructed. Examine artifacts found at Sully and figure out how they were used. House tour not included. $5. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/Sully/.

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.

Oct 20
Drum Your Way Through History. (8 – 14 yrs). 3 pm – 4 pm. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 703 – 631 – 0013. Single head drums have been used for centuries for ceremony, communication and celebration. Create your own single head drum and learn how to play it. Explore the way drums have been used by inhabitants of the park from the 1600s until today. Percussionist John Shafer leads this rhythmic stroll through history. Reservation and advanced payment required by 10/10. $15/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 20
Explorers – Apple Trees at Walney . 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. Visit the Walney apple orchard and help park staff care for the trees. Learn about the importance of apples to Walney farm. Peel and core some apples, zap them in the microwave and then enjoy applesauce! 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.

Oct 20
Nature Quest – Fungus and other Decomposers. (3 – 6 yrs.) 10 am – 11 am. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Ok, maybe the average preschooler doesn't give much thought to fungus. But perhaps after examining bread mold and blue cheese and taking a walk in the woods in search of fungus and other decomposing life forms, kids will look into their parent's eyes and say, "I know what slime mold is." Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Oct 20
Young Explorers – Wild Turkey. (6 – 8 yrs.) 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Learn about this shy gobbler through a discussion, an activity and a walk in the woods. Reservations required. Canceled if rain. $3 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 20
Drum Your Way Through History. (8 – 14 yrs) 3 pm - 4 pm. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, 703 – 631 – 0013. Single head drums have been used for centuries for ceremony, communication and celebration. Create your own single head drum and learn how to play it. Explore the way drums have been used by inhabitants of the park from the 1600s until today. Percussionist John Shafer leads this rhythmic stroll through history. Reservation and advanced payment required by 10/10. $15/child 3 – 4pm 703 – 631 – 0013 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 21
City of Fairfax Farmers Market. 8 am – 12 pm. Van Dyck Park, 3730 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. 703.642.0128 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 21
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.

Oct 22
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.

Oct 22
Farmer's Market Frying Pan Farm Park. 8 am - 12:30 pm. Located at 2709 West Ox Road, in front of Frying Pan Country Store. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 22
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 22
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.

Oct 22 or 23
Nature Detectives – Pumpkinfest. (3 – 5 yrs.) 10 am – 10:45 am. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Bring a small pumpkin to celebrate the season in style. Through a story and an activity, enjoy the wonders of autumn. Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 23
Dr. H. Marc Cathey Day at the American Horticultural Society. A celebration of the connection between plants and people, featuring a keynote presentation. George Washington's River Farm, Alexandria. 703-768-5700. www.ahs.org.

Oct 23
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 23
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.

Oct 23
Garden Stroll and Tea at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. Take a relaxing stroll through the gardens and enjoy a tea at the Historic House. This is a delightful introduction to the mission and history of Green Spring Gardens, one of the preeminent places for horticulture in the Washington, D.C. area. The docent – led tours of our demonstration gardens are followed by a full English afternoon tea. Individuals and groups are welcome. $25/individual. 1 – 3pm Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 23
Garden Stroll and Tea at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. Take a relaxing stroll through the gardens and enjoy a tea at the Historic House. This is a delightful introduction to the mission and history of Green Spring Gardens, one of the preeminent places for horticulture in the Washington, D.C. area. The docent – led tours of our demonstration gardens are followed by a full English afternoon tea. Individuals and groups are welcome. $25/individual. 1 – 3pm. Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 23
Puppet Show for Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill. 1 pm. Geared for children 3 – 5 years old. Meet Marvin the Miller and his puppet friends to learn how the mill works and how grain is ground. Afterwards feed the hungry ducks on the millpond. No reservations required. $4 child, adult FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 24
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 24
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.

Oct 24
Basic Gardening Series: Selecting and Maintaining Garden Tools at Green Spring Gardens. 1:30 - 2:30 pm. Green Spring has an arsenal of tools in the shed. Some of them are used everyday – others sit unused in the corner. Which tools are terrific and which ones are duds? Master Gardeners will show you how to select the right tool for the job and how to maintain it. $12. 1:30 – 2:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 24
Haunted Pond. (6 yrs. and up) 7 pm – 9 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Our program deals with things that go bump in the night, like flying squirrels, raccoon, owls and, of course, "ghosts." Follow the naturalist on a night – time forest walk, then return to the campfire for ghost stories and s'mores. Canceled if rain. Reservation required. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Oct 25
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm. West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Oct 25
Fall for Lake Anne at Lake Anne Village Center. 12 pm - 4 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. Saturday, October 25th, presented by Lake Anne Merchants. Come enjoy free family fun on the plaza by the lake at Lake Anne Village Center. Live music, entertainment and activities, face painting & balloon artist, and trick-or-treating. (Season finale of Reston Farmers Market, 8 am-12 pm.) For information, visit www.lakeanneplaza.com.

Oct 25
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.

Oct 25
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.

Oct 25
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 25
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 25
Wolf Trap's Run for the Arts (5k and Howl-o-ween Fun Run). 7:30 am - 11 pm. 1551 Trap Road, Vienna. Early Registration Prices: $10 for Children; $20 for Adults If you enjoy the thrill of crossing that finish line or are just looking for a family-friendly day at the nation's only park for the performing arts you won't want to miss Wolf Trap's Run for the Arts 5k and Howl-o-ween Fun Run. Also, join us for our first green fundraising event! 703.255.1900 Learn more and register at http://wolftrap.org/Find_Performances_and_Events/Event/5k.aspx.

Oct 25
Design Symposium: Gardening in Small Space at Green Spring Gardens. 8:30 am - 4 pm. Explore imaginative solutions to the challenge of small space gardening. Investigate indispensable design elements, discover dynamic perennials that offer dramatic foliage and architectural splendor, and explore the practicality and beauty of growing vegetables in an urban potager. Learn from professional landscape designers, horticulturists and gardeners. A self guided tour, developed specifically for small gardens, complements and reinforces the lectures. Fee includes lectures, refreshments, and lunch. $89. 8:30am – 4pm Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Oct 25
Pumpkin Patch. 10 am - 11 am. Join in games and activities about pumpkins out by our pumpkin patch. Enjoy hot chocolate and toasted pumpkin seeds and bring a small pumpkin to decorate. (3 – 7 yrs. with an adult), 10 – 11am, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 Reservations required. $ 3, children under 2 FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 25
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.

Oct 25
Creepy Crawly Slimy. (3 yrs. and up with adult) 1 pm – 2 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. We think of creepy crawly things around Halloween, but most of the animals we fear are simply misunderstood. Learn about their "jobs" and gain a new respect for these helpful creatures. Reservations required. $3/child $2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Oct 25
Apprentice Naturalist – Virginia's Fall Forest. (12 yrs. and up) 3 pm – 4:30 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Walk with a naturalist to take an in – depth look at life in the fall forest. Probe topics such as animal preparations for the winter and fall plant life. Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Oct 25
Halloween Goblin Golf and Bonfire. 6 pm – 9 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703 – 569 – 0285 Join us for this spooktacular event perfect for adults and children of all ages. Dare yourself to venture onto the haunted golf course to play a round of golf with glow – in – the – dark golf balls, ride the festively decorated carousel while spooky music plays and join in storytelling over a cup of hot chocolate around a lakeside bonfire. $6 per person. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Oct 25
South Run's Arts and Craft Show. 9 am – 5 pm. South Run RECenter, 703 – 866 – 0566. Check out the exciting attractions at the premiere of Northern Virginia's newest Arts and Crafts Show. Choose from the works of more than 50 of the best local artists and crafters. Crafts include woodwork, jewelry, glasswork, quilts, fabrics, edible gifts and more. Admission is free, and door prizes will be awarded. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/srunrec.htm.

Oct 25
"Howloween" Dog Talent Show, Costume Contest and Boneyard Hunt. 2 pm - 4 pm. Lake Accotink Park. Are you and Fido ready for some howlin' good Halloween fun? It's time to start practicing those pet tricks and trying on those coordinating outfits! Show off your furry family member's unique talents and compete for special prizes and treats! The contest is followed by a walk through the "boneyard" to sniff out well – earned treats. All dogs must be leashed and friendly toward other dogs, children and people of all ages. $5 per dog. Advance payment and registration required. 2 – 4pm. 703 – 569 – 0285 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 25
2nd Annual Halloween Costume Run at Burke Lake Park. 9 am - 12 pm. (**Must be in costume to participate**). Shelter A. Race Start Times: Group A – 9 a.m. (13 years and older). Group B -- 9:15 a.m. (12 and under) $5 children 12 and under; $10 ages 13 and up. Reservation required. For more information and registration, contact Laurie Strickland at South Run RECenter, 703-866-0566. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 25
Halloween Goblin Golf and Bonfire. 6 pm - 9 pm, Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-0285 Join us for this spooktacular event perfect for adults and children of all ages. Dare yourself to venture onto the haunted golf course to play a round of golf with glow-in-the-dark golf balls, ride the festively decorated carousel while spooky music plays and join in storytelling over a cup of hot chocolate around a lakeside bonfire. $6 per person. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Oct 25
South Run’s Arts and Craft Show. 9 am - 5 pm. South Run RECenter, 703-866-0566. Check out the exciting attractions at the premiere of Northern Virginia's newest Arts and Crafts Show. Choose from the works of more than 50 of the best local artists and crafters. Crafts include woodwork, jewelry, glasswork, quilts, fabrics, edible gifts and more. Admission is free, and door prizes will be awarded. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/srunrec.htm.

Oct 25
South Run RECenter Hosts First Annual Arts & Crafts Show. 9 am – 5 pm. Crafters will tempt shoppers with everything from beautiful jewelry to intricate woodworking. Other crafting categories include photography, painting, glasswork, clothing, dolls, pottery, and many more. Admission to the Arts and Crafts Show is free for all, and admission qualifies entrants for hourly door prizes. For more information, contact South Run at 703-866-0566. Directions: South Run RECenter is in Springfield. Located on the Fairfax County Parkway, South Run is easily accessible from all directions.

Oct 25
4th Annual Air and Scare, A Halloween Event For All Ages. 4 pm - 8 pm, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Stephen F. Udvar-Hazy Center. 202 633-1000. Discover the strange and spooky side of aviation and space at the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center's Fourth Annual Air and Scare. Hear stories about bugs in space, flying animals, and androids. Meet your favorite Star Wars and Star Trek characters. Watch R2D2 demonstrate its capabilities. Take control of a creepy-crawly robot and a Mars rover. Create a spider finger puppet, a Halloween glider, witch rocket and other items to take home. There will also be face painters, story tellers, free simulator rides and activities just for tots. Admission is free but there is a $10 fee per car to park in the parking lot. http://www.nasm.si.edu/events/eventDetail.cfm?eventID=991.

Oct 25 or 26
Creatures of the Night. (Families) 1 pm – 3 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Step into the night – time world of bats, owls and beavers through self – guided displays, hands – on activities and a movie with popcorn! Children must be accompanied by an adult. $4/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 26
Oh Deer! (6 yrs. and up) 12:30 pm – 2 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Families go off – trail to look for signs of deer activity and talk about how important these animals were to the American Indians living in Virginia at the time of the Jamestown settlement. Reservations required. Canceled if rain. $6/adult, $4/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Oct 26
Grinding Grain Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill in September and October. 12 pm – 3 pm. The miller will be grinding every Sunday, weather and water conditions permitting. Please call ahead for more information. Tour: $6 adults, $5 student 16 and up with ID, $4 child and seniors www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 26
Potomac Heritage Trail Hike. 8 am - 1:30 pm. Wildlife and history are alive on this nine – mile journey along the Potomac Heritage Trail from Algonkian Regional Park to Riverbend. This naturalist – led hike highlights the fall colors and great views of the Potomac River. Meet at Riverbend's Visitor Center and take the van shuttle to begin the hike. (Adults), 8am – 1:30pm, Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018 Reservations and advanced payment required. $15 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Oct 26
Lizards. 1 pm - 2:30 pm. Watch a short film about a local lizard, the five – lined skink. Then assist a naturalist with a reptile survey. Head out into the outback of Ellanor C. Lawrence Park searching, capturing, identifying and releasing reptiles. Learn the habits and preferred habitats of native species. (10 yrs. and up), 1 – 2:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 26
Halloween Mobile. 1 pm – 2:30 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Make a creepy creature mobile for Halloween. Materials provided to help you design bats, ghosts and cats to hang on this perpetually moving decoration. Parent must accompany children. Reservations required. $5/mobile www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Oct 27
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.

Oct 27
Afternoon Adventure – Apple Trees at Walney. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. Visit the Walney apple orchard and help park staff care for the trees. Learn about the importance of apples to Walney farm. Peel and core some apples, zap them in the microwave and then enjoy applesauce! 8 – 11 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.

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.

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.

Oct 27 and 30
Boo Who! 1 pm - 2 pm. Colvin Run Mill. Children, 4 – 6 years accompanied by an adult, have Halloween fun at the Mill. Come in costume, make a trick or treat bag, listen to a story and trick or treat the puppets. Pre – paid reservations required by 10/23. $7/child, adults FREE 1 – 2pm 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 28
City of Fairfax Farmers Market. 8 am – 12 pm. Van Dyck Park, 3730 Old Lee Highway, Fairfax. 703.642.0128 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 28
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.

Oct 28
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.

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

Oct 29
Farmer's Market Frying Pan Farm Park. 8 am - 12:30 pm. Located at 2709 West Ox Road, in front of Frying Pan Country Store. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 29
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 29
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.

Oct 29
Halloween Fun Fest. (3 – 6 yrs.) 12:30 pm – 2 pm or 2:30 pm – 4 pm. Riverbend Park Nature Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Come in costume and enjoy an afternoon of non – spooky fun. Activities include the batty scavenger hunt, spider challenge, Halloween howl and more! Reservations and advance payment required. $8www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Oct 30
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Oct 30
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.

Oct 30
Puppet Show for Preschoolers at Colvin Run Mill. 1 pm. Geared for children 3 – 5 years old. Meet Marvin the Miller and his puppet friends to learn how the mill works and how grain is ground. Afterwards feed the hungry ducks on the millpond. No reservations required. $4 child, adult FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 30
Halloween Haunting. 6 pm - 7:30 pm. Sit by the open fire to toast marshmallows and listen to stories of the park's ghosts. Bring short ghost stories to share and a pumpkin to carve. Dress in your costume if you choose and prepare to be tricked or treated on a haunted night walk. (8 yrs. and up), 6 – 7:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 Reservations required. $3 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Oct 30
Boo at the Farm. Frying Pan Farm Park. (3 – 8 yrs. accompanied by an adult) 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm. Come costumed to trick or treat for goodies and meet farm friends up close. Then settle down for a home brewed Halloween tale in the barn. Bags provided. Pre – paid reservations required. Canceled if rain. $5/child. 5:30 – 6:30pm. 703 – 437 – 9101 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Oct 27 and 30
Boo Who! 1 pm – 2pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Children, 4 – 6 years accompanied by an adult, have Halloween fun at the Mill. Come in costume, make a trick or treat bag, listen to a story and trick or treat the puppets. Pre – paid reservations required by 10/23. $7/child, adults FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Oct 31
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.

Oct 31
Ballet Flamenco Jose Porcel. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. $44, $36, $22. 703.933. www.gmu.edu.

Oct 31
Freaky Friday Fun. (12 yrs. and under) 2 pm – 8 pm. Audrey Moore RECenter, 703 – 321 – 7081. This family event features games, prizes, costume contest, candy, face painting, maze, pool fun and more. $5 per child. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wakerec.htm.

Oct 31
Freaky Friday Fun. (12 yrs. and under) 2 pm - 8 pm, Audrey Moore RECenter, 703-321-7081. This family event features games, prizes, costume contest, candy, face painting, maze, pool fun and more. $5 per child. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wakerec.htm.