The sun is shining, the temperature is rising, and winter landscapes are transforming into green grass and wildflower-speckled fields. Spring has finally landed in Fairfax County, and with it comes a wide array of fun and exciting things to do this April. Petal-peeping, nature walks, live music, festivals and more are just waiting to be enjoyed! Here's our round-up of can't-miss activities this month in #FXVA.
National Cherry Blossom Festival
Now - April 14, 2024
Image courtesy National Park Service
Festival runs through Sunday, April 14, 2024
Since 1912, the annual celebration of the cherry blossoms is a reminder of the gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to the city of Washington, DC. Every year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival commemorates the lasting friendship between the people of the United States and Japan. For a full list of signature events and the latest updates, check out our Cherry Blossom Festival Guide. If you're looking to celebrate the splendor of the cherry blossoms in an unconventional way, visit Fairfax County's hidden and acclaimed gardens for a self-guided tour.
Additional Cherry Blossoms Cheers: Art Blooms weekend at Mosaic and Into the Woods at Frying Pan Farm Park on April 6.
Broadway at Capital One Hall - STOMP
April 5 -7, 2024
See what all the noise is about as STOMP makes its way to Capital One Hall in Tysons as part of the "Broadway in Tysons" season lineup. STOMP is an electrifying, thought-provoking, stylish, and truly one-of-a-kind performance that captivates audiences of every age. This comeback of the percussive sensation promises fresh surprises, including revamped sections of the show and addition of two new full-scale routines featuring unique props such as tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans. Don't miss out on STOMP! Get tickets here.
The Iconic Bluebell Festival
April 6, 2024
Image courtesy Fairfax County Park Authority
Bluebells at the Bend Festival is BACK again this year! The day’s highlight features the emergence of the iconic Virginia Bluebells, native wildflowers that bloom in the moist woodlands of eastern North America and can create a bit of their spring magic in your own garden. Head over to Riverbend Park, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the area's urban settings on the Potomac River. Parents: come appreciate the breathtaking blooms, listen to live music, shop for crafts, and enjoy one-of-a-kind food trucks. Kids: run off for some face painting, create crafts, and run amok in the obstacle course. All for $10 per person (until April 6), $12 at the gate.
Bluebell Bonus: Run to Bull Run Regional Park on April 13th for Bluebell Weekend at Bull Run! DIY wildflower seed bomb, challenge yourself by climbing the rock wall, and of course don't miss the guided bluebell hikes.
Founder's Day in Reston
April 6, 2024
Image courtesy Public Art Reston
Celebrated every year on a Saturday near Robert E. Simon, the founder of Reston's birthday, Founder's Day is a celebration of Reston's founding with a variety of family-friendly activities. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the community's founding. Join the Reston Historic Trust & Museum for Founder’s Day on April 6 at Lake Anne Plaza for art projects, performances, food vendors, and more celebratory activities. One of Reston’s founding principles is that "beauty - structural and natural – is a necessity of the good life and should be fostered." Enjoy all of Reston’s engaging open spaces through a self-guided public art tour, or even by visiting the shops, restaurants, and brewhouse at Lake Anne Plaza.
Frying Pan Farm Park Horse Expo
April 13, 2024
All are welcome to experience the equestrian world at the Frying Pan Farm Park Horse Expo event. Both seasoned riders and newcomers can delight their taste buds from a selection of food trucks. Engage with expert speakers to learn something new. Be enthralled by captivating demonstrations. And finally, don't miss the opportunity to shop a range of businesses offering of horse-related products and services.
National Park Week
April 20 - 28, 2024
The National Park Service has declared April 20-28 National Park Week. Come show your appreciation and admiration during this week for all that our parks have to offer. In honor of the celebration, all National Park entrance fees are waived on April 20. This includes our magnificent Great Falls Park! Feel free to make a full day trip out of it by taking a scenic Great Falls Road Trip which includes hiking, history, and world-famous whiskey.
Celebrate the Earth
April 22, 2024
Image courtesy Fairfax County Park Authority / Green Spring Gardens
Earth Day is April 22, 2024 / (events held throughout the weekend)
While every day is a good day to be kind to our world, Earth Day is an especially great day to show appreciation! From building your own greenhouse with the kids to group document shredding and composting, there are many ways to celebrate Mother Earth in Fairfax County. Check out our guide to Earth Day activities like Earth Day Fairfax or Fairfax HisTree Day for unique activities to enjoy the day. For more ways to live a sustainable life and support those who encourage it, read more about some of Fairfax County's most eco-friendly businesses! If you're a home gardener, check out these places to buy seeds and plants for your garden.
Historic Garden Week Tour
April 23, 2024
Photo Courtesy of Meadowlark Botanical Gardens
For nearly nine decades, the Garden Club of Virginia has been the proud host of Historic Garden Week - an exceptional opportunity to immerse yourself in our region's rich history while getting your floral fix. Over 150 homeowners will open their garden gates to welcome guests to their breathtaking homes and grounds. This year, McLean takes the spotlight! Explore the Ballantrae estate, spread across 6.5 acres, featuring a 1923 Colonial Revival manor house, a charming c. 1843 farmhouse (now serving as a guesthouse), and beautifully organized landscaped grounds with spaces for outdoor gatherings, a sunken tennis court, a concealed treehouse and a walled kitchen garden. Just minutes away, in the neighboring town of Vienna, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens awaits. 95 acres adorned with expansive ornamental display gardens, a restored 18th Century farmhouse, the iconic Korean Bell Garden and a chance to stroll other botanical wonders.
Taste of Vienna
April 27, 2024
Photo courtesy Taste of Vienna via Facebook
The beloved Fairfax County festival return this month: the 11th Annual Taste of Vienna! Put on your stretchy pants and experience the delicious food of local restaurants in the area. Admission is FREE, with food and beverages available for purchase on-site.
Disney's Encanto x CAMP
Through April 28, 2024
Image courtesy Disney Encanto x CAMP
This could be your final opportunity to explore the immersive Disney Encanto x CAMP experience at Tysons Corner Center. Step through the Magic Door and embark on an exhilarating adventure within the Familia Madrigals' Casita. Spend an exciting hour climbing Antonio's rainforest, twirling through Isabela's flower-filled room, sliding down the Courtyard steps, and more—all while singing along to beloved Encanto melodies.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Photo courtesy River Farm
Celebrate the Eclipse
- Come out to your nearby park to discover the fascinating science behind eclipses and take part in the festivities - April 8
- Partial Solar Eclipse Celebration at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park or Burke Lake Park
- Safely See the Partial Eclipse at Historic Huntley or Turner Farm
- View the Solar Eclipse at the National Air and Space Museum Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center - April 8
- Looking for delicious treats to enjoy at the park or during an eclipse party? How about indulging in a Brownie Eclipse Cookie Cake, Black and Gold Eclipse Cupcakes, or even some Black and Gold Eclipse Cookies? Playful Bakester is whipping up culinary delights in her kitchen, guaranteeing everyone's taste buds a celestial experience! Don't miss out—reach out to place your orders now! (place your order by 5:00pm on Friday, April 5th).
There are a few extra special events this month you won’t want to miss. Here’s a breakdown:
- Spring Garden Market at Historic River Farm - April 12 - 13
- Holi at Mosaic - April 20
- Animal Family Day at George Washington's Mount Vernon - April 20 - 21
- Festival of Colors at Bull Run Special Events Center - April 27
If these events and activities aren't enough for you, be sure to keep up with our main Events Calendar for an assortment of fun happening all month long. Share what fun you end up having in Fairfax County on social media using #FXVA and @VisitFairfax. Did we miss anything above? Tell us in the comments below.
