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

Events

2008 Calendar of Events

September 2008

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.

September
Multicultural Festival at Lake Anne Village Center. 10 am - 6 pm. 1609 Washington Plaza, Reston. A Saturday in September - DATE TBA by Reston Community Center. Presented by Reston Community Center. The award-winning Multicultural Festival spotlights the global diversity of the cultures in greater Reston. Families, friends, and visitors are invited to come, enjoy and experience multicultural entertainment, cultural displays, activities for children and adults, children's passports, a global fashion show, food, arts and crafts, and cultural demonstrations. Come dressed in your own native attire and share your culture with your neighbors. Hosted by Lake Anne Village Center, the historic heart of Reston. Contact: www.restoncommunitycenter.com.

Sep 1
Labor Day Both Houses open. Woodlawn and Pope-Leighey House. 703.780.4000. www.woodlawn1805.org

Sep 1
Snake and Turtle Feeding. 3 pm - 3:45 pm. Enjoy a brief presentation and demonstration by our animal caretaker volunteers or naturalist staff. At least one snake and two turtles are fed during the demonstration. Reservations required. (All ages), 3 – 3:45pm, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065 Limit 20. $2/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Sept 1
Nominations For The 3rd Annual Changing Lives - One Youth at a Time Awards Breakfast. The Fairfax Partnership for Youth needs your help in recognizing some very deserving young people! The awards this year will focus on youth and youth-led organizations that best personify the Partnership’s mission to reduce youth violence and promote positive youth development. Nine awards will be presented to 5th - 12th grade youth, with monetary awards totaling $5,000 sponsored by the Apple Federal Credit Union Education Foundation. Winners will be recognized at an awards breakfast on Tuesday, October 28, 2008, at the Hyatt Regency Reston with Art Monk delivering the key note address. For nomination information and forms, visit www.fairfaxyouth.org/ The nomination deadline is September 15, 2008.

Sep 2
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.

Sept 2
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.

Sep 2
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.

Sep 3
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.

Sep 3
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 3
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.

Sep 3-29
RCC Jo Ann Rose Gallery Call for Entries. The Reston Community Center is looking for artists to be a part of the September Multicultural Art Exhibit in the RCC Lake Anne Jo Ann Rose Gallery. The "Discover the World in Reston" exhibit, scheduled for September 3 through September 29, will celebrate Reston's 8th Annual Multicultural Festival all month. Artists can submit two pieces which reflect their cultural heritage. For more information and entry form, please call Gloria Morrow at 703-476-4500 x3012 or visit www.restoncommunitycenter.com.

Sep 4
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 4
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.

Sep 4
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.

Sep 5
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 5
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.

Sep 5
Ponderings – Brian's Bug Buddies. (6 – 12 yrs.) 4:30 pm – 5:30pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Naturalist Brian likes bugs. He leads what he considers the best bug hunt in 60 minutes. After practice in bug catching and identification, each participant departs as a Brian – certified Bug Catcher. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Sept 5
Nominations For The 3rd Annual Changing Lives - One Youth at a Time Awards Breakfast. The Fairfax Partnership for Youth needs your help in recognizing some very deserving young people! The awards this year will focus on youth and youth-led organizations that best personify the Partnership’s mission to reduce youth violence and promote positive youth development. Nine awards will be presented to 5th - 12th grade youth, with monetary awards totaling $5,000 sponsored by the Apple Federal Credit Union Education Foundation. Winners will be recognized at an awards breakfast on Tuesday, October 28, 2008, at the Hyatt Regency Reston with Art Monk delivering the key note address. For nomination information and forms, visit www.fairfaxyouth.org/ The nomination deadline is September 15, 2008.

Sept 6
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Sep 6
Heritage Roses Tea & Tour. 1 pm seating. 703.780.4000. www.woodlawn1805.org.

Sep 6
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.

Sep 6
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.

Sep 6
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 6
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 6
Family Fun: Monarch Magic at Green Spring Gardens. 2pm - 3:30pm. Children (5 yrs. and up) with accompanying adult(s) explore the fascinating life cycle of monarch butterflies. Make a caterpillar cage, add a milkweed snack, and adopt a tiny larva to take home to raise and release in your own garden! $10/project. 2 – 3:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 6
Viernes 6 de Septiembre (La clase se ofrecer en espa–ol) 9:30 am - 10:30 am. Creando un Jard'n Espectacular Durante el Oto–o y el Invierno at Green Spring Gardens. No permita que su jard'n este cubierto solamente por una capa de mantillo durante los meses fr'os. Venga a nuestro taller y aprenda como cuidar su jard'n. En este taller aprenderemos como podar y abonar su jard'n y como mantenerlo limpio. Descubra nuevas técnicas que har‡n que su jard'n se vea ms atractivo en esta linda época. $12. 9:30am – 10:30am. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 6
Propagation Series Part 1: Seed Saving at Green Spring Gardens. 9:30 am - 11 am. A gardener who saves seed saves money, prepares for the future, stays linked with the past, selects improvements, and is constantly surprised. Learn the basics of seed saving, including: seed harvest, drying, cleaning and storage. Venture into our gardens with Mary Frogale, propagation horticulturist, and collect seed to take home from unique annuals and perennials. $22. 9:30 – 11am. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 6
Make Yours a Backyard Habitat. 12 pm - 1 pm. The Friends of Hidden Oaks Nature Center (FOHONC) invite you to make your yard, school or business property an official National Wildlife Federation certified backyard habitat. It is easier than you think! Learn how you can make a natural difference and how to make a toad abode. (Families), noon – 1pm, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Reservations required. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Sep 6
Dragonfly Walk. (Adults) 1 pm – 3 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Walk the boardwalk with dragonfly expert Kevin Munroe to learn about these colorful wetland acrobats. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $6www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Sep 6
Virginia Indian Festival. (All ages) 10 am – 4 pm. Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. The Rappahannock dancers and drummers plus seven other area tribes will do live demonstrations, dance, and show and sell Indian crafts, pottery and music. Help build a dug – out canoe, throw a spear and shoot a bow and arrow. No reservations required. $8/adult, $5/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Sep 6
Fall Froggin' is Toadally Cool. (3 yrs. and up with adult) 10 am – 11 am. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Soak up the world of fall puddle life and learn about the wildlife living in them. Search for frogs and tadpoles and learn about their fascinating life cycle. Reservations required. $3/child $2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Sep 6
Turtle Talk. (3 yrs. and up with adult) 1 pm – 2 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Turtles are familiar backyard animals but how much do you really know about them? Look for wild turtles and learn about how they survive in the water and on the land. Reservations required. $3/child $2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Sep 6
Virginia Indian Festival. (All ages) 10 am - 4 pm, Riverbend Visitor Center, 703-759-9018. Eight tribes from the Virginia and Washington, DC area -- including the Rappahannock dancers and drummers – will be represented at the 2008 festival.. Indian crafts, pottery and music for sale. Live demonstrations, talks by tribe members and tool-making experts and local archaeologists, plus bow and arrow shooting and spear throwing with an atlatl. Help build an authentic dug-out canoe. No reservations required. $8/adult, $5/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend/.

Sep 6
Reston Multicultural Festival 11 am – 5 pm. Lake Anne Plaza. All Ages Saturday, Join your friends and neighbors for a whirlwind and fun-filled trip around the globe as you "Discover the World in Reston!" at the 2008 Reston Multicultural Festival. 3 stages of entertainment, displays, activities, global fashion show, food, arts & crafts. The Festival will be held rain or shine. Come dressed in your own ethnic attire and share the story of your family's journey with others. For more information or to volunteer, please contact Linda Ifert, Acting Director of Arts and Community Events, at 703-390-6168 or visit www.restoncommunitycenter.com.

Sep 6
Can You Canoe? You Can! 1 pm - 3 pm. Learn the basic mechanics of canoeing with an emphasis on safety and enjoyment. Then take to the water and experience the beauty of the 55-acre lake while paddling your canoe. This program is perfect for beginners ages eight years and older. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Canoes and life jackets are provided. Bring a water bottle and snack if desired. The cost is $12 per person. For reservations, call 703-569-0285. Lake Accotink Park is located at 7500 Accotink Park Road in Springfield.

Sep 6 and 7
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.

Sep 6 and 13
Propagation Series: More Plants, Less Money at Green Spring Gardens. Expand the variety of flowers, vegetables and herbs in your garden by growing them at home from seeds or cuttings. Register for both classes $40; individual session $22. 703 – 642 – 5173 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/gsgp.

Sep 7
Pope-Leighey Tech Tour. 703.780.4000. www.popeleighey1940.org.

Sep 7
AARP Dulles Chapter is hosting a Classic Car Show. 10 am - 3 pm. September 7, 2008 in Downtown Herndon near the Municipal Center and Town Hall. Looking for a place to show off your classic car? The Car Show proceeds will provide scholarship support to Nurse Practitioners specializing in Geriatric Nursing at George Mason University. Plaque for the first 100 cars registered. You can earn a trophy and enjoy the auction, raffles, food and fun! For more information email president@AARPdulles.org or go to www.AARPdulles.org/classic. Free for spectators!

Sep 7
AARP Dulles Chapter is hosting a Classic Car Show. 10 am – 3 pm in Downtown Herndon near the Municipal Center and Town Hall. Looking for a place to show off your classic car? The Car Show proceeds will provide scholarship support to Nurse Practitioners specializing in Geriatric Nursing at George Mason University. Plaque for the first 100 cars registered. You can earn a trophy and enjoy the auction, raffles, food and fun! For more information email president@AARPdulles.org or go to www.AARPdulles.org/classic. Free for spectators!

Sep 7
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.

Sep 7
Sully Quilt and Fiber Arts Show and Sale. 10 am – 4:30 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. Vendors assemble on the grounds of the 1794 home of Richard Bland Lee at our 35th annual fall event to show and sell new and antique quilts, quilt – related merchandise, other fiber arts, antique linens, antique sewing tools, books and fabric. Northern Virginia Quilters Unlimited members provide quilting demonstrations and lectures. For the ninth year the Hayfield Country Quilters provide a beautiful door prize quilt. Show includes children's activities, quilt appraisals, quilted door prize, and food. Rain or shine. House tour included. $9/adult, $8/senior, $6/child www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Sep 7
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.

Sep 7
Sully Quilt and Fiber Arts Show and Sale. 10 am – 4:30 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. Vendors assemble for our 35th annual event to show and sell new and antique quilts and quilt – related merchandise. This year's expanded fiber arts include weaving, broom making, rug hooking and basket making. Enjoy children's activities, quilt appraisals, quilted door prize and food. Rain or shine. House tour included. $9/adult, $8/senior, $6/child. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Sep 7
Grandparents Day Cruise. (All ages) 5 pm – 6 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703 – 569 – 0285. Treat the Grandparents to a special day with the family! Cruise the shoreline while listening to an interpretive history of the park, lake and surrounding area. Refreshments served on board. $3.50 for Grandads and Grandmoms, $7 for other adults, $4 for children, babies on laps free. Reservations required. Cruise cancelled in case of rain or gusty winds. Refunds only if cruise is cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 7
Sully Quilt and Fiber Arts Show and Sale. 10 am - 4:30 pm, Sully Historic Site, 703-437-1794. Vendors assemble for our 35th annual event to show and sell new and antique quilts and quilt-related merchandise. This year’s expanded fiber arts include weaving, broom making, rug hooking and basket making. Enjoy children’s activities, quilt appraisals, quilted door prize and food. Rain or shine. House tour included. $9/adult, $8/senior, $6/child. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/Sully.

Sep 7
Grandparents Day Cruise. (All ages) 5 pm – 6 pm, Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-0285. Treat the Grandparents to a special day with the family! Cruise the shoreline while listening to an interpretive history of the park, lake and surrounding area. Refreshments served on board. $3.50 for Grandads and Grandmoms, $7 for other adults, $4 for children, babies on laps free. Reservations required. Cruise cancelled in case of rain or gusty winds. Refunds only if cruise is cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 7
Sully Quilt and Fiber Arts Show and Sale. 10 am - 4:30 pm. Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151, 703-437-1794. Vendors assemble on the grounds of the 1794 home of Richard Bland Lee at our 35th annual fall event to show and sell new and antique quilts, quilt-related merchandise, other fiber arts, antique linens, antique sewing tools, books and fabric. Northern Virginia Quilters Unlimited members provide quilting demonstrations and lectures. For the ninth year the Hayfield Country Quilters provide a beautiful door prize quilt. Show includes children's activities, quilt appraisals, quilted door prize, and food. Rain or shine. House tour included. $9/adult, $8/senior, $6/child. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/Sully/.

Sep 8
Nature Quest – Bugs. (3 – 6 yrs.) 10 am – 11 am. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Young naturalists have fun exploring the world of insects, spiders and other small creatures we call bugs. Collect, identify and release these critters. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Sep 8
Pohick Rangers. (9 – 12 yrs.) 3 pm – 5 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. This four – part series focuses on the natural world of the Pohick Stream Valley. The first session covers Insects and Spiders, followed by Forest Ecosystems, Nocturnal Wildlife and Mammals with tracking. Other meeting dates: 10/6, 3 – 5pm, 11/14, 7 – 9:30pm and 12/1, 3 – 5pm. Reservations required. $50 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Sep 8
Young Explorers – Birds of Prey. (6 – 8 yrs.) 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm, Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Learn about Huntley Meadow's expert hunters through a discussion, an activity and a walk to the wetland. Reservations required. Canceled if rain. $3www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Sept 8
Nominations For The 3rd Annual Changing Lives - One Youth at a Time Awards Breakfast. The Fairfax Partnership for Youth needs your help in recognizing some very deserving young people! The awards this year will focus on youth and youth-led organizations that best personify the Partnership’s mission to reduce youth violence and promote positive youth development. Nine awards will be presented to 5th - 12th grade youth, with monetary awards totaling $5,000 sponsored by the Apple Federal Credit Union Education Foundation. Winners will be recognized at an awards breakfast on Tuesday, October 28, 2008, at the Hyatt Regency Reston with Art Monk delivering the key note address. For nomination information and forms, visit www.fairfaxyouth.org/ The nomination deadline is September 15, 2008.

Sep 8 – Oct 27
Let's Grow Kids' Gardening Program at Green Spring Gardens. 2 pm - 4 pm. Mondays. Kids, do you enjoy sprouting seeds, growing vegetables, planting flowers, exploring soil, and other outdoor fun? If you're 8 to 12 years old, join this unique program at Green Spring Gardens. Get garden lessons and hands – on activities, and grow your own garden with help from Green Spring staff and Master Gardeners. $70/student. Mondays, 2 – 4pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

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.

Sept 9
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.

Sep 9
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.

Sep 9
Bird Hike. 8:30 am - 10 am. Walk the park's woodlands and fields with a naturalist in search of resident and migratory bird species. Bring binoculars and field guides. Dress for the weather. Reservations required. FREE (12 yrs. and up), 8:30 – 10am, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Sep 9
Adventure Tots: Grandparents and Kids 10 am - 11 am Tuesday. Grandparents and children will spend some quality time together at Meadowlark Gardens for a special morning of fun-filled activities! Participants will take a short walk to the log cabin where they will create a craft and simply enjoy one another's company. 2-4 years old. FREE. (Registration #: 901040-9A) Grandparents and children must register. Location: Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is located at 9750 Beulah Road, between Route 7 and Route 123 Registration required For questions, please contact Debbie Heron, Director of Youth Programs, at: (703) 390-6163 or email: Deborah.Heron@fairfaxcounty.gov For directions, please call: (703) 255-3631.

Sep 9
Colonial Ceramics Workshop 6 pm - 8 pm. Enjoy an interactive presentation on 18th century pottery. Learn the differences in the glazes, shapes and sizes of ceramics that were used in the 1700s. Reservations required. Fee: $5; $3 Farm members and current volunteers. Workshops intended for adults and mature children. Location: The Claude Moore Colonial Farm 6310 Georgetown Pike, McLean, VA. E-mail kcannon@1771.org to reserve.

Sep 10
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.

Sep 10
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 10
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.

Sep 10
Parent and Child Fishing by Boat. (All ages, one boater must be 16 yrs. or older), 6 – 7:30pm, Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Enjoy fishing with your child from a jon boat. Follow the naturalist to favorite fishing spots on the river. This scenic section of the Potomac contains bass, sunfish and the occasional catfish. Previous rowing experience not required. Boats and PFDs provided. Fishing rods can be rented at the park. Reservations and advanced payment required. Canceled if inclement weather or hazardous river conditions. Maximum 3/boat, one must be 16 yrs. or older. $20/boat www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Sep 10
Garden Getaway: Surreybrooke. 9 am - 4 pm. Spend the day exploring Surreybrooke, a historic family farm in Middletown, MD. Enjoy a guided tour of the 20 beautiful display gardens and the historic outbuildings followed by a savory lunch in the cottage tea room. After lunch, shop in Surreybrooke's nursery and Cottage Gift Shop. The shop specializes in unique pottery, garden statuary, and dried flower arrangements. $65, lunch included. 9am – 4pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 10 or 11
Nature Detectives – Birds of Prey. (3 – 5 yrs.) 10 am – 10:45 am. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Learn about our expert hunters through an activity and a craft. Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Sep 11
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 11
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.

Sep 11
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.

Sep 11
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.

Sep 11
Apprentice Naturalist – Virginia's Bat Basics. (12 yrs. and up) 7 pm – 8:30 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Bats should be celebrated for the important ecological and economic contributions they make. Learn about bats of Virginia and bat houses. See bats in their natural habitat and listen to our bat detector as they hunt (weather permitting). Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Sep 12
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 12
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.

Sep 12
Basic Gardening Series: Introduction to Ornamental Grasses at Green Spring Gardens. 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm. Many beginning gardeners aren't familiar with this wonderful genre of plants that can add structure, movement, verticality, color, texture, and even sound to your garden. Find out from Green Spring Master Gardeners how to select, plant and maintain the best ornamental grasses available. $12. 1:30 – 2:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sept 12
Nominations For The 3rd Annual Changing Lives - One Youth at a Time Awards Breakfast. The Fairfax Partnership for Youth needs your help in recognizing some very deserving young people! The awards this year will focus on youth and youth-led organizations that best personify the Partnership’s mission to reduce youth violence and promote positive youth development. Nine awards will be presented to 5th - 12th grade youth, with monetary awards totaling $5,000 sponsored by the Apple Federal Credit Union Education Foundation. Winners will be recognized at an awards breakfast on Tuesday, October 28, 2008, at the Hyatt Regency Reston with Art Monk delivering the key note address. For nomination information and forms, visit www.fairfaxyouth.org/ The nomination deadline is September 15, 2008.

Sept 13
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm. West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Sept 13
18th Century Wedding at Claude Moore Colonial Farm at Turkey Run. 2 pm. Come celebrate with the farm family on this joyous occasion! Dance with the bride and groom, witness an 18th century style ceremony, and taste the wedding cake. Ceremony is at 2 pm. Weather permitting - call ahead. 703.903.9330 www.1771.org.

Sep 13
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.

Sep 13
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.

Sep 13
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 13
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 13
Designing with Perennials: Shape and Repose in the 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.

Sep 13
Propagation Series Part 2: Saving Your Treasures – Tender Perennials at Green Spring Gardens. 11:30 am - 1 pm. Tired of spending money on tender perennials that die when a frost hits the garden? Learn simple, successful propagation techniques from Green Spring horticulturalist, Nancy Olney and take home some of our treasures! Your new talent will save you money in spring! $22. 11:30am – 1pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 13
Ice Cream Making. 12 pm – 4pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. See how ice cream was made in the past and learn some facts about America's favorite treat. Then help hand – crank a delicious batch of ice cream and sample your efforts. $1/cup www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Sep 13
NEW! How to Get Outdoors and Play 101. 3 pm - 4 pm. Many children have plugged – in childhoods, rarely if ever enjoying outdoor play due to parental concerns of stranger or nature danger. Learn about the research on nature deficit disorder and how Hidden Oaks naturalists can guide parents with young children in discovering safe ways to play outside. When children play in nature, they learn lifelong appreciation and benefit Playce," a free – play area in the woods, and share the wonder of nature with your child. (Families with children 2 yr and up), 3 – 4pm, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Reservations required. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Sep 13
Off – trail Birding at South King's Highway. (Adults) 7 am – 10 am. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. At this time of year the last wave of neotropical migrants are moving through, and the first wintering visitors are arriving. Binoculars and field guides are recommended. Meet at the park's South King's Highway and Telegraph Road entrance. Reservations required. Canceled if rain. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Sep 13
Fall Wildflowers – Goldenrods and Milkweeds. (All ages) 1 pm – 2 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Take a leisurely stroll to look for fall flowers. Learn from a naturalist and gardener about the many plants growing along Cub Run's trails. Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Sep 13
Orienteering Workshop. (All ages) 12 pm – 2 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703 – 569 – 0285. Join Lake Accotink Park and the Quantico Orienteering Club (QOC) in celebrating National Orienteering Day. Courses for all levels along with beginner's instruction. Perfect for individuals or groups. Meet at the parking lot by the dam underneath the railroad trestle. Follow the orange and white signs from parking lots to meeting place. $6 per person. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 13
Orienteering Workshop. (All ages) 12 pm - 2 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-0285. Join Lake Accotink Park and the Quantico Orienteering Club (QOC) in celebrating National Orienteering Day. Courses for all levels along with beginner's instruction. Perfect for individuals or groups. Meet at the parking lot by the dam underneath the railroad trestle. Follow the orange and white signs from parking lots to meeting place. $6 per person. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 13 & 14
18th-Century Craft Fair at Mount Vernon. The fair re-creates an early-American marketplace where artisans demonstrate their crafts and sell their wares. Lively performances by entertaining acts showcase amazing but true 18th-century amusements! FREE sightseeing cruises are compliments of Spirit Cruises and Potomac Riverboat Company. 703.780.2000. www.mountvernon.org.

Sept 13 - 14
International Children's Festival at Wolf Trap. 10 am - 4 pm - Rain or Shine! 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182, The Arts Council of Fairfax County presents the International Children's Festival with young dancers, musicians and martial artists from China, Finland, Ghana, and Jordan, and featuring the exciting percussion group ScrapArtsMusic from Canada. Activities include hands-on fine arts and crafts from around the globe, arts & technology pavilion, instrument petting zoo, parades, clowns and more than 300 local performers. $12 adults, $10 children and seniors, children two and under free. Weekend passes available. Arts and fun for the entire family! www.internationalchildrensfestival.org.

Sept 13
Centerville Day. 10 am - 6 pm. Parade and Festival. Parade, historic re-enactments, local business vendors, live entertainment, children's rides, presentation of awards, and food court. Braddock Road, Centerville. Near Toute 29 & Route 28 Intersection. Parade at 10:00 am. www.centervilleday.com.

September 13
Northern Virginia Conservation Trust 2008 Kayak Trip. 9 am - 12 pm. Join the Northern Virginia Conservation Trust for a naturalist-led kayak trip this summer! Beginners are welcome! All equipment and instruction is provided. All participants must be 16 or older. Reservations are required and seats fill up fast, so contact us now! Pohick Bay: 6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton, Virginia 22079. $35 per person. Call Whitney Bailey at 703-354-5093 x25 or wbailey@nvct.org to sign up. www.nvct.org.

Sep 13
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.

Sep 14
Freeze! (Preserving your fall harvest tea program) at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. The kitchen garden is harvested well into fall. But how can we satisfy a mid – winter craving for our own garden goodies? Freezing is one of the easiest, most convenient methods of preserving foods. Learn about which fruits and vegetables you can freeze, which methods work best, and what materials you'll need to put summer on ice all winter long. Program includes full English tea. $25. 1 – 3pm. Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 14
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.

Sep 15
Nature Snoopers – Monarchs in the Meadow. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. Catch, study and release the colorful, nectar – feeding insects in the sunny habitat of our meadow. Tag monarchs to track their flight and discover evidence of its four – stage life cycle. Reservations required. $4 (5 – 6 yrs., for children in all – day kindergarten), 2:30 – 3:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Sep 15
Pohick Rangers Jr. (6 – 8 yrs.) 3 pm – 5 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Young naturalists get a chance to do what the older rangers do, plus other adventures. Our first session covers Insects and Spiders, followed by Strange Habitats (mud, swamp ooze, etc), Nocturnal Animals and Animal Evidence. Other meeting dates: 10/27, 3 – 5pm, 11/21, 7 – 9:30pm and 12/15, 3 – 5pm. Reservations required. $50 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Sept 16
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.

Sep 16
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.

Sep 17
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.

Sep 17
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 17
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.

Sep 17
One – Stroke Painting/Floral Still Life 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 acrylic paint with the texture of oils to depict flower buds, blooms, grass and ferns. Acrylic paint cleans up easier with a quicker 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 can be purchased from the instructor. Registration required and workshop fee of $30 payable in advance. Refunds only if workshop cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 17
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.

Sep 17
One-Stroke Painting/Floral Still Life Workshop with High Definition Paint. (13 yrs and up) 10 pm - 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 acrylic paint with the texture of oils to depict flower buds, blooms, grass and ferns. Acrylic paint cleans up easier with a quicker 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 can be purchased from the instructor. Registration required and workshop fee of $30 payable in advance. Refunds only if workshop cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 18
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 18
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.

Sep 18
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.

Sep 19
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 19
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.

Sep 19
Ponderings – Tiptoe through the Swamp Ooze. (6 – 12 yrs.). 4:30 pm – 6 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. Our intrepid naturalist plans to outdo himself. Yes, he will actually tiptoe barefoot through the swamp, leading participants on a messy exploration of this misunderstood wetland to see what lives in its mud. "I just love squishing the mud between my toes," says Brian, the naturalist. Shoes that can get dirty are required for everyone else. Reservations required. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Sept 20
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm. West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Sept 20
American Horticultural Society Annual Gala. For information call : 703-768-5700. www.ahs.org.

Sep 20
Slave Commemoration at Mount Vernon. Black Women United for Action and the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association join to commemorate the lives of the slaves who lived and worked at Mount Vernon. The moving ceremony at the Slave Memorial features dramatic readings and uplifting music. 703.780.2000. www.mountvernon.org.

Sep 20
San Gennaro Festa Vino at Reston Town Center. 11 am - 8 pm. 11800 Freedom Drive, Reston. Saturday, September 20, presented by The San Gennaro Foundation of Virginia. Celebrate Italy and all things Italian at the second annual Festa Vino Di San Gennaro on Saturday, September 20, at Reston Town Center. This unique outdoor ethnic festival will be reminiscent of a Little Italy festival with bocce games, live music, vendors, an Italian Market, and unlimited wine tasting of Italian and local Virginia wines. Free admission to event, wine sampling tickets $25 at the door or $20 in advance and include a souvenir wine glass. All profits will be used for charity and educational programs supported by the San Gennaro Foundation of Virginia. For more information or to purchase tickets in advance, visit www.festavino2008.com or call 1-800-830-3976.

Sep 20
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.

Sep 20
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.

Sep 20
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 20
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 20
Workshop: Casting Concrete Leaves at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. Capture the fleeting beauty of ornamental leaves by casting them in concrete to decorate your home or garden. Local artist, Judy Murrett demonstrates the proper steps to making good leaf castings and assists participants in making one to take home. Materials provided. $50. 1–3pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 20
Tea – Tasting Party at Green Spring Gardens. 10:30 am - 12 pm. Black teas account for most of the world's teas and have the strongest flavor. Discover different nuances of taste as you sample a variety of black teas and learn to tell them apart. Learn the flavors, strengths, and provenances of each. Enjoy delicious teatime accompaniments as you sip and savor! Tasting parties do not include a full English tea. $20/individual tasting. 10:30am – noon. Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 20
Bat Fest. Batty about bats? 7pm - 9:30 pm. You will be when you discover the fascinating facts of our area bats. Meet live local bats, go on an evening bat hike, discover the array of backyard bugs attracting these natural bug zappers and enjoy games and crafts. Learn the latest in building bat houses. Bat World NOVA's director Leslie Sturges leads families in becoming bat aficionados. (Families), 7 – 9:30pm, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065 Reservations and advanced payment required. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Sep 20
Wildflower Stroll. (Adults) 9:30 am – 11 am. Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Walk along the banks of the Potomac in search of fall wildflowers and learn some of the fascinating folklore associated with these late bloomers. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Sep 20
Old McDonald's Farm Puppet Show. 10 am – 10:40 am or 11:30 am – 12:10 pm, Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703 – 437 – 9101. Meet Derwood Duck, Jackson the mule, Benny Bunny and a herd of merry marionette puppets under the artful direction of nationally renowned puppet master, Bob Brown. Pre – paid reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Sep 20
Old McDonald’s Farm Puppet Show. 10 am - 10:40 am or 11:30 am - 12:10 pm, Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703-437-9101. Meet Derwood Duck, Jackson the mule, Benny Bunny and a herd of merry marionette puppets under the artful direction of nationally renowned puppet master, Bob Brown. Pre-paid reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/.

Sep 21
Twilight Tour of Pope-Leighey House. Time TBA. 703.780.4000. www.popeleighey1940.org.

Sep 21
Keyboard Conversations with Jeffrey Siegel-Haydn and Mozart- Humor and Heartache. 7 pm. Ineternationally acclaimed pianist Jeffrey Siegel returns in his highly popular concert series—Keyboard Conversations. The program includes Haydn's hilarious C-Major Fantasy, boisterous Gypsy Dance, and dark, dramatic C-Minor Sonata; and Mozart's charming G-Major sonata and melancholy B-Minor Adagio. #38, $30, $19. Family friendly. Children 12 and under half price. Cemter fpr the Arts. George Mason University. 703.993.8888 www.nps.gov/gwmp/parknews/theconcerseries2008.htm.

Sep 21
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.

Sep 21
Mill Run Dulcimer Band Concert. 2 pm – 4pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Bring a picnic and enjoy the sounds of the Mill Run Dulcimer Band in the lovely September weather. FREE, donations accepted www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Sep 21
Snapping Turtles. 10 am - 11 am. Snapping turtles are our largest fresh water turtle in Virginia. Visit a pond to search for this large and often misunderstood reptile. Reservations required. $5 (6 yrs and up), 10 – 11am, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney Pond, 703 – 631 – 0013 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Sep 21
How to Get Outdoors and Play 101. 11 am - 12 pm. Many children have plugged – in childhoods, rarely if ever enjoying outdoor play due to parental concerns of stranger or nature danger. Learn about the research on nature deficit disorder and how Hidden Oaks naturalists can guide parents with young children in discovering safe ways to play outside. When children play in nature, they learn lifelong appreciation and benefit Playce," a free – play area in the woods, and share the wonder of nature with your child. (Families with children 2 yr and up), 11am – noon, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Reservations required. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Sep 21
Half – a – Hundred Acre Woods Tea Party. 2 pm - 3 pm. Parents and children sip tea and enjoy the adventures of A.A. Milne's classic Winnie the Pooh stories. Explore the 52 – acre woods around Hidden Oaks. Discover real fun facts about Virginia's brown bears and if any heffalumps and wuzzles live in Fairfax County. (Families), 2 – 3pm, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065 Reservations and advanced payment required. $8/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Sep 21
Birding for Beginners – Optics and Field Guides. (Adults) 8 am – 11 am. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Interested in birding? We can get you started! Learn about the birds in the park and try out different optics. Program begins in the parking lot. Reservations required. $2 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Sept. 21
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.

Sep 21
Mill Run Dulcimer Band Concert. 2 pm - 4 pm. Colvin Run Mill. Bring a picnic and enjoy the sounds of the Mill Run Dulcimer Band in the lovely September weather. FREE, donations accepted. 2 – 4pm 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Sep 22
Explorers – Monarchs in the Meadow. 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm. Catch, study and release the colorful, nectar – feeding insects in the sunny habitat of our meadow. Tag monarchs to track their flight and discover evidence of its four – stage life cycle. Reservations required. $4 (6 – 7 yrs., for children in all – day kindergarten), 2:30 – 3:30pm, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney, 703 – 631 – 0013. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Sept 23
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.

Sep 23
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.

Sep 23
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.

Sep 23, 25 and 30
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.

Sep 24
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.

Sep 24
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.

Sep 24
Farmer's Market Wakefield. 2 pm - 6 pm. Located at Wakefield Park, 8100 Braddock Road. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 24
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.

Sep 25
Farmer's Market Annandale. 8 am - 12 pm. Located in Mason District Park, 6621 Columbia Pike. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 25
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.

Sep 25
Parent and Child Fishing by Boat. (All ages, one boater must be 16 yrs. or older), 6 – 7:30pm, Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Enjoy fishing with your child from a jon boat. Follow the naturalist to favorite fishing spots on the river. This scenic section of the Potomac contains bass, sunfish and the occasional catfish. Previous rowing experience not required. Boats and PFDs provided. Fishing rods can be rented at the park. Reservations and advanced payment required. Canceled if inclement weather or hazardous river conditions. Maximum 3/boat, one must be 16 yrs. or older. $20/boat www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Sep 25
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.

Sep 25
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.

Sep 26
Farmer's Market Kingstowne. 4 pm - 7 pm. Kingstowne Town Center www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 26
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.

Sep 26
Basic Gardening Series: Pollinators and other Beneficial Insects at Green Spring Gardens. 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm. Discover the world of beneficial insects in our gardens! Learn the basics about the beneficial insects that live just outside your door. Master Gardeners will explain the importance of pollinators to our lives and what you can do to provide a welcoming habitat. $12. 1:30 – 2:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 26
Café Cattail. (Families) 7 pm – 9:30 pm. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. End your busy week with relaxing, nature – inspired music, poetry and dance at this popular open – mike coffeehouse. Reservations required for performers only. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Sep 26
Riverside Campfire – Migration. (Families) 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Riverbend Visitor Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. Hawks, warblers and monarchs are flying south for winter. Meet Emmylou, our red – tailed hawk, do a migration activity and enjoy s'mores. Come early if you want to bring a picnic or toast hotdogs. Bring toasting stick, blanket and flashlight. Reservations and advanced payment required. $3/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Sep 26-28
Remodeling & Home Décor Show. Friday, Sept. 26 - 10 am to 9:30 pm. Saturday, Sept. 27 - 10 am to 9:30 pm. Sunday, Sept. 28 - 10 am to 6 pm. The Remodeling & Home Décor Show is the ideal, one-stop shopping resource for homeowners interested in the latest remodeling and decorating products and services. Whether tackling a renovation project, redecorating a space or interested in the latest industry offerings, visitors can shop for a wide range of products and services, find home décor solutions, speak to professional experts, discover top trends and become inspired. Dulles Expo Center, 4368 Chantilly Shopping Center, Chantilly, VA 20153. $10 - adults, $3 - children (6 to 12), and free - kids 5 & under. Buy online and save $2 off adult admission. For group ticket sales, contact Brian Osika at 800-274-6948 x203 or at Briano@marketplaceevents.com. Visit www.CapitalHomeShow.com or www.DullesExpo.com for more information on this exciting event.

Sept 27
Downtown Fairfax Coalition Community Market. 8 am – 1 pm. West and Main Street 703.430.616 www.geocities.com/heartland/garden/3698.

Sep 27
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.

Sep 27
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.

Sep 27
Farmer's Market Burke. 8 am - 12 pm. VRE Parking Lot 5671 Roberts Parkway www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 27
Farmer's Market Reston. 8 am - 12 pm. Lake Anne Village Center off North Center Drive. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/farm-mkt.htm.

Sep 27
Brian Stokes Mitchell. 8 pm. Center for the Arts. George Mason University. Includes show tunes, ballads and classic love songs. $60, $52, $30. 703.993.8888. www.gmu.edu.

Sep 27
What Wood Is That? Tea Program at Green Spring Gardens. 1 pm - 3 pm. Wood is our most versatile structural resource. But do you know how to tell one kind from another and choose just the right wood for your project? A wood and finishing expert demonstrates how to recognize the leading varieties by their color, grain, and texture. Learn about veneers, laminates, and re – finishing as well as basic wood care and maintenance, repair, and restoration. Program includes full English tea $25. 1 – 3pm. Call 703 – 941 – 7987 to register. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 27
Fall Garden Festival at Green Spring Gardens. 8:30 am - 3:30 pm. Support one of Virginia's most innovative and exciting public gardens. The Fall Festival is a FROGS (Friends of Green Spring) sponsored fundraiser filled with adult and family activities, including a lecture (Remarkable Trees of Virginia) by author Nancy Hugo, a tea program on the subject of wood, a silent auction and an expanded plant sale, including local artisans specializing in garden art and crafts. Proceeds help acquire plants for the garden and add to Green Spring's educational efforts. Co – sponsors include: Virginia Native Plant Society and Washington Gardener magazine. or. Lecture $20. Tea Program $25. 8:30am – 3:30pm. Call 703 – 642 – 5173 for more information. www.greenspring.org.

Sep 27
Ice Cream Making. 12 pm – 4pm. Colvin Run Mill, 703 – 759 – 2771. Last chance of the season to see how ice cream was made in the past and to help hand – crank a delicious batch of ice cream. $1/cup www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Sep 27
Harvest Moon Concert. 5 pm – 8 pm. Sully Historic Site, 703 – 437 – 1794. Enjoy music on the lawn in the historic setting at Sully. At 5 and 7pm Jericho Bridge fills the air with traditional, contemporary and original bluegrass songs and instrumentals. At 6pm, Tim O'Kane presents his unique, sing – along sound playing mostly Irish music, but also classic acoustic standards. Bring a picnic supper and toast marshmallows at the fire. Take a ride on the hay wagon. $10 in advance, $12 at the door www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/sully.

Sep 27
Tagging Monarch Butterflies. (5 yrs. and up). 12:30 pm – 1:45pm, Hidden Oaks Nature Center, 703 – 941 – 1065. Learn to identify monarch butterflies, discover their fascinating life cycle and how they migrate to Mexico. Assist a naturalist in tagging live monarchs and release them as they begin their journey southwest. Make a symbolic monarch to "migrate" to a child who lives in the Mexican communities surrounding the butterfly reserves. Reservations and advanced payment required. $6/person www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenoaks.

Sep 27
Fall Birds and Bagels. (Adults) 8 am – 11am. Huntley Meadows Visitor Center, 703 – 768 – 2525. Enjoy an early morning walk in search of resident and migrating birds, then relax and recap the sightings during a continental breakfast at the Visitor Center. Binoculars and field guides recommended. Sponsored by the Friends of Huntley Meadows Park (FOHMP). Reservations required. $6www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/huntley.

Sep 27
Predators and Prey. (7 – 12 yrs.) 10 am – 11:30 am. Riverbend Nature Center, 703 – 759 – 9018. The predator – prey relationship is a complex and vital part of a habitat. Meet some of Riverbend's exhibit animals, then go afield to search for signs of animal activity. Reservations and advance payment required. $5 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/riverbend.

Sep 27
Mantis Mayhem! (3 yrs. and up with adult) 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Early fall is the best time to find and study mantises because they have been growing large by eating insects all summer. Mantids are important in the ecosystem, and they are a great way to learn about all insects. Reservations required. $3/child $2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Sep 27
Spying on Spiders (3 yrs. and up with adult) 3 pm – 4 pm. Cub Run RECenter, 703 – 817 – 9407. Spiders are marvelous predators, controlling insect populations everywhere, from native habitats to our homes. Explore spider anatomy and prey – catching tactics and identify several local spider families. Reservations required. $3/child $2/adult www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/rec/wcrec.htm.

Sep 27
Bluegrass Concert – Bill Emerson and the Sweet Dixie Band. 8 pm – 10 pm. Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703 – 437 – 9101. Bluegrass legend Bill Emerson and the Sweet Dixie Band raise the rafters. Hear this award – winning musician and his new band as they strum old favorites and future classics. General admission seating, doors open 7pm. Tickets now on sale, call for ordering information. Parktakes registration dates don't apply. Pre – paid reservations recommended. $15 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp.

Sep 27
Mason District Park Fall Festival. 10 am – 4 pm. Mason District Park, 703 – 941 – 1730. Crafts, live entertainment, puppet shows and clowns are just part of the attractions at this year's festival. Fun seekers can also enjoy police and fire demonstrations and children's activities including moon bounces and pony rides. In addition, crafters will be displaying and selling their wares. Live entertainment includes popular local bands between 10am – 4pm. Admission is free, tickets may be purchased for individual rides. Craft Vendors must register in advance by calling 703 – 256 – 7717. In case of inclement weather, rain date is Sunday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/omp.htm

Sep 27
Sunset Cruise – Last one of the season! (18 yrs and up) 7 pm – 8 pm. Lake Accotink Park, 703 – 569 – 0285. Admire the sunset and relax as you cruise the beautiful shoreline of Lake Accotink. You may spot a heron settling in for the night or a deer coming down to water's edge for a late drink. An interpretive history of Lake Accotink Park is included in the tour. Beverages served on board. Reservations required. $5 per person. Cruise cancelled in case of rain or gusty winds. Refunds only if cruise is cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 27
Ice Cream Making. 12 pm - 4 pm. Colvin Run Mill. Last chance of the season to see how ice cream was made in the past and to help hand – crank a delicious batch of ice cream. $1/cup Noon – 4pm. 703.759.2771 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/crm.

Sep 27
Dog Day Afternoon Cruise – Last one of the year! 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm. (Humans 8 yrs and up; dogs all ages), Lake Accotink Park,. Treat your canine companion to a special cruise aboard Lake Accotink Park's pooch – friendly pontoon boat. Catch the last rays of the sun as it dips toward the distant lake shore while your dog scans for ducks, geese and other lake dwellers. $5 per person, no charge for dogs. 5:30 – 6:30pm Limit one dog per person. Reservations and advance payment required. Cruise cancelled at discretion of park staff in case of rain or gusty winds. Full refund if cruise is cancelled. No refunds for any other reason. 703 – 569 – 0285 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks.

Sep 27
Bluegrass Concert – Bill Emerson and the Sweet Dixie Band. 8 pm - 10 pm, Frying Pan Farm Park Visitor Center, 703-437-9101. Bluegrass legend Bill Emerson and the Sweet Dixie Band raise the rafters. Hear this award-winning musician and his new band as they strum old favorites and future classics. General admission seating, doors open 7pm. Tickets now on sale, call for ordering information. Parktakes registration dates don’t apply. Pre-paid reservations recommended. $15 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp/.

Sep 27?
Mason District Park Fall Festival. 10 am - 4 pm, Mason District Park, 703-941-1730. Crafts, live entertainment, puppet shows and clowns are just part of the attractions at this year’s festival. Fun seekers can also enjoy police and fire demonstrations and children’s activities including moon bounces and pony rides. In addition, crafters will be displaying and selling their wares. Live entertainment includes popular local bands between 10am-4pm. Admission is free, tickets may be purchased for individual rides. Craft Vendors must register in advance by calling 703-256-7717. In case of inclement weather, rain date is Sunday, September 28, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/omp.htm.

Sep 27
Sunset Cruise – Last one of the season! (18 yrs and up) 7 pm - 8 pm, Lake Accotink Park, 703-569-0285. Admire the sunset and relax as you cruise the beautiful shoreline of Lake Accotink. You may spot a heron settling in for the night or a deer coming down to water’s edge for a late drink. An interpretive history of Lake Accotink Park is included in the tour. Beverages served on board. Reservations required. $5 per person. Cruise cancelled in case of rain or gusty winds. Refunds only if cruise is cancelled. http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/accotink.

Sep 27
Harvest Moon Concert. 5 pm - 8 pm. Sully Historic Site, 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA 20151, 703-437-1794. Enjoy music on the lawn in the historic setting at Sully. At 5 and 7pm Jericho Bridge fills the air with traditional, contemporary and original bluegrass songs and instrumentals. At 6pm, Tim O'Kane presents his unique, sing along sound playing mostly Irish music, but also classic acoustic standards. Bring a picnic supper and toast marshmallows at the fire. Take a ride on the hay wagon. $10 in advance, $12 at the door. www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/Sully/.

Sep 27 - 28
The Northern Virginia Brewfest. 11 am - 8 pm Saturday. 11 am – 7 pm Sunday. Bull Run Regional Park Special Events Center, Centreville, VA. The BrewFest will celebrate many different styles of beer similar to those seen during Oktoberfest in Germany – providing over 40 breweries from which to choose. Great food, live music, the Circuit City Sports Lounge, and the BrewFest Family Fun area for the kids will make this a great weekend for all to enjoy. Ticket prices are Adults - $22 at the gate, $17 in advance, Children up to age 16 free with an adult. Tickets are available online. For more information please visit the event website at www.novabrewfest.com or call us at 703-923-0800.

Sep 27 and 28
War Comes to Walney. 11 am – 4 pm. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney Lawn, 703 – 631 – 0013. Experience Civil War camp life recreated by the 42nd Virginia Infantry Regiment. Glimpse the daily routine of the soldiers who once camped at Walney and in Centreville. Young recruit candidates can participant in military drill and learn hands – on about the lives of young men and women during the war. FREE www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Sep 27 and 28
War Comes to Walney. 11 am - 4 pm. Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Walney Lawn. Experience Civil War camp life recreated by the 42nd Virginia Infantry Regiment. Glimpse the daily routine of the soldiers who once camped at Walney and in Centreville. Young recruit candidates can participant in military drill and learn hands – on about the lives of young men and women during the war. FREE 11am – 4pm 703 – 631 – 0013 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/ecl.

Sep 28
Greater Reston Arts Center. Annual C-Note Sale. Gallery opens: 11 am; Sale begins: 1 pm. Build an art collection at the exciting annual C-Note Sale at the Greater Reston Arts Center, a once a year opportunity to take home an exceptional piece of original art for only $150.00! All of the 200 art works are donated by artists from the 2008 Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival and throughout Northern Virginia, with many pieces valued at 5-10 times more than the ticket price. Tickets are $150.00 each and available for purchase at GRACE or by phone. Limit: 5 tickets per person, and only as many tickets are sold as there are pieces of art, so no one goes home empty handed. Ticket-holders: View the art selection at the GRACE gallery beginning September 2, through September 28. Advice: Rank 20 favorite pieces on a "wish list", and visit frequently. Event Day: Sunday September 28, the Gallery opens at 11 am. Come early and enjoy brunch and finalize choices. Beginning at 1pm the real fun begins as each ticket number is called for selection of the pieces. All proceeds go to support GRACE programs. Call GRACE at 703-471-9242 and visit www.restonarts.org.

Sep 28
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.

Sep 28
Slugfest. (All ages). 10 am – 12 pm. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. It's back! The program that gives everyone the slime of their life. This year's event unveils the world premiere of the play "There Will Be Slime" – the story of a ruthless pesticide tycoon and his battle with the slug – loving singing star Hannah Slugtanna. Other activities include: Bailey's Slug Kissing Booth, Sluggo's Slug – on – a – Spoon Contest, Slug Foot Massages by Olga, Slime Art, Slime Tossing and Slug Racing. Oh, and Hannah Slugtanna will sing some of her degraded hits with her back up band – – The Rolling Snails. Refreshments available. Reservations required. $6 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

Sep 29
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.

Sep 29
Nature Quest – Dirt. (3 – 6 yrs.). 10 am – 11 am. Hidden Pond Nature Center, 703 – 451 – 9588. The ground around the park holds not only a lot of worms and bugs, but it also contains mysteries about what once lived here. You will get dirty during this very hands – on program. Canceled if rain. Reservations required. $4 www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/hiddenpond.

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.

Sept 30
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.

Sep 30
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.