Five Things to Do This Weekend

September 16-17, 2023
Looking for something to do this weekend? We’ve got you covered. The weather is predicted to be sunny and beautiful over the next few days so come on out and enjoy the last weekend of summer with Prince William County Parks.

Join Us for Ben Lomond Day 
Join us for Ben Lomond Day on Saturday, September 16, 10 am – 4 pm. Ben Lomond’s history spans centuries, from a Civil War hospital to a presidential retreat, to a working farm. Experience the site’s varied history all in one day through talks, demonstrations, activities and games at both Ben Lomond Historic Site and the Pat White Center at Ben Lomond. Event is free. ($5 suggested donation.) All ages are welcome. Click here for more information. 

Take the Little Ones Out to Explore
During our Creek Critters program, children ages 4-8 will explore a slow-moving stream at Lake Ridge Park and get a chance to catch some of the critters (macroinvertebrates) that call it home. This exciting, hands-on program on Saturday, September 16 (10 – 11:30 am) includes the use of nets, terrariums and a classification chart to learn about the creek critters they find. Program fee is $10. Register here.

Cheer on Participants in the Kids for Kids Triathlon 
Come out to Chinn on Sunday morning (September 17, 7 – 8 am) to watch the Kids for Kids Triathlon. We know it’s an early one but watching these 6 to 12 year olds compete in a triathlon will be worth it! Join us at Chinn Aquatics & Fitness Center to cheer on these kids and show your support. Follow the parking signs down to the soccer fields as our parking lot is closed for the event.

Visit Our Award-Winning Farmers Market 
With nearly 50 vendors in the summer and 30+ in the winter, the Dale City Farmers Market is one of the largest open-air markets in the region. Our markets are producer-only markets, meaning all products must be grown or made by the seller. Last year, the Dale City Farmers Market was once again voted "Best Agritourism Attraction/Event" in Prince William County by InsideNoVa.com marking the 6th year the market has won the award.

You can currently visit the Dale City Farmers Market on Sundays from 8 am to 1 pm, then starting in December, Sundays from 10 am – 1 pm. Can’t make it on Sundays? Visit our Prince William Farmers Market, which is open Thursdays from 3 -7 pm through November 9 at County Complex (Stadium.)

Get Out on the Water 
There’s no better way to enjoy the last days of summer than on the water, and we’ve got plenty of options for you to do so. Lake Ridge Marina is located directly on the Occoquan Reservoir in the Lake Ridge community. The Lake Ridge Marina offers three-season boat rentals, with a universal access boat launch and dock access, with canoes, pedal boats, kayaks, SUP and jon boats available to rent. You can also bring your own boat (max 9.9 hp) or rent one at the marina to launch from the boat ramp. 

We also offer pedal boat rentals at Locust Shade Park. And if you have your own equipment, you can enjoy non-motorized boating, kayaking and canoeing at Silver Lake Regional Park, Marumsco Acre Lake Park and Occoquan. (No rentals available at these locations). Click here for more information on boating locations. If you’re looking to fish, we offer that too – find out more here.

Want even more information from Prince William County Parks at your fingertips? There are so many ways to “Stay Connected” with us to find out about the latest programs, events and activities. We encourage you to follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter. Learn about all the ways you can “Stay Connected” with Parks here.