Ten Things to Do in September

Have you ever wanted to learn how to use a kettlebell for fitness? Do you want to improve your pickleball game or try the sport for the first time? Or maybe you’re a history buff who’d be interested in learning about the history of Manassas? These are just a few of the fitness and recreation programs we have coming up in September. We have plenty of opportunities for you to be active, try something new, learn a little history or have a fun day out with the family. Looking for more? Check out all our available classes and programs in fall Leisure, now online.

Learn to Swing a Kettlebell
Register for this class and you will learn to master kettlebell techniques for a full-body, functional workout that incorporates strength and cardio. Classes begin September 5, every Tuesday and Thursday, 6 – 7 pm, through September 28, and take place at Chinn Aquatics & Fitness Center. Sign up here.

Join Us for a Wednesday Walk
On Wednesday, September 6, (7 – 8 pm) join the staff and volunteers of Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park for a hike to stretch your legs and explore the park. You’ll go on 1 ¼ mile hike of the Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park and learn about the Spanish-American War camps in the Bristoe area. Learn more about what brought an entire U.S. Army division west through Prince William County in 1898 and the county’s contributions to the war effort. The tour will begin at 7 pm in the parking lot of Bristoe Station Battlefield Heritage Park. Event is free. Learn more here.

Have a Family Adventure Day
Join us for a family adventure day! These programs are designed for children to attend with a parent or guardian. On September 9, come learn about pollinators and plants and how they rely on each other to survive. Through observation, crafts, and exploration we will discover the awesome natural relationship between pollinators and plants at Nokesville Park. We will meet at the Pavilion in Nokesville Park. Dress for the weather to be outside. 

On September 30, join us to discover the wonderful colors throughout our environment at Gro Nature Preschool at James Long Regional Park. Dress for the weather to be outside. 

Take Your Pup for a Swim
Bring your well behaved four-legged friend and visit with other dog enthusiasts and pet vendors on Saturday, September 9 for Pooch Plunge at Veterans Memorial Park. Owners must provide written proof from a veterinarian showing their dog's current rabies vaccination to attend (a dog tag is NOT sufficient). No female dogs in season please. Dogs must be 6 months or older. Limit two dogs per handler (person). Handler must be 16 years or older. People swimming is NOT permitted during this time. Pool has a graduated entry so dogs can easily enter and exit the pool on their own. Concessions will be available. Balls and frisbees available for play. Entry fee is $6 + donation of pet food (any size – unopened bags.)

Support the Arts Community at Arts Alive!
Mark your calendars for Sunday September 10, for our annual free community arts festival—Arts Alive! The arts festival features Prince William County Arts Council members and other community performers and fine artists. There will be activities for all ages and multiple stages of performances indoors and outdoors including:

* Live performances and exhibits by local artists and art organizations
* Visual art on display and for purchase
* Local authors reading and selling their work
* Hands-on activities and live demonstrations for all ages

Event takes place at Hylton Performing Arts Center. View the full schedule of events here.

Improve Your Pickleball Game
Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the U.S. Come join us to see what all the dinks are about! In the Level 1 class you will learn all the basic strokes including dinks, volleys, forehands, backhands and the serve. You will also learn all the rules and how to keep score. Pickleball paddles and balls are provided. Tennis shoes are required. Class sessions begin on September 11 and take place at Veterans Memorial Park. Level 2 and 3 classes are also available for the more seasoned player. See all class options and registration details here. Classes are expected to fill up quickly so register today!

Take a Walking Tour of Manassas 
Join local historians on Friday, September 15 (7 – 9 pm) for a walking tour of Manassas, a town chartered in 1873 and steeped in Civil War history. This tour is co-led by the City of Manassas and will depart from the Old Manassas Courthouse at 9248 Lee Avenue, Manassas, VA 20110. Call 703-792-4754 for more information.

Experience Harvest Day at Rippon Lodge 
Learn the history of harvest day during the colonial era at Rippon Lodge Historic Site. There will be crafts, picking of fresh veggies from the garden, pumpkin painting, farm animals, lawn games and other fun, family activities. Join us on Saturday, September 23, 11 am – 3 pm.

Listen to Some Bluegrass at the Brentsville Bluegrass Festival
The Brentsville Bluegrass Festival will take place on Saturday, September 30, 10 am – 4 pm. For 200 years, the Brentsville Public Lot has been a place of entertainment and festivities and we are continuing that tradition into today! Bring your chairs, kick up your heels, and enjoy some bluegrass, antique vehicles and vendors. Enjoy three bands throughout the day, explore the historic site, shop, and enjoy family friendly activities for the kids. Food and beverages will be available for purchase onsite. Save and purchase your tickets online for the festival here.

Catch a Movie in the Park
Join us at Veterans Memorial Park on Saturday, September 30, 7 – 9 pm, for a family movie night in the park—Minions: The Rise of Gru. Come early to get a good seat! The movie will begin at sunset. Please note this is not a “drive-in” moving – all seating is on the lawn. Please bring your own lawn chairs or blankets for seating. A parent must attend with children under the age of 16. In the event of inclement weather, movie will be held in the Veterans Park Community Center (still bring a chair or blanket). $5 per person. All participants must pre-register for a ticket to the movie.* 

*Each person in attendance must have a ticket. To reserve multiple tickets, add additional members to your account first then after you add to cart, check each family member that will attend. 

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.