Fairfax County Offers Diverse July 4th Weekend Activities Amidst Heat Advisory

Fairfax County will host a diverse array of activities for the July 4th weekend, from Friday, July 3, to Sunday, July 5, 2026, while urging residents to prioritize safety amidst extreme heat conditions. The county has activated its heat plan through Saturday and opened a 24-hour cooling center until Sunday morning to assist those affected by the high temperatures.

Throughout the weekend, residents can cool off at The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole at Lake Fairfax Park and Our Special Harbor at Franconia Park. History enthusiasts can explore the Sully Historic Site in Chantilly, offering guided tours detailing its past from the 1700s to the 1950s, including the 1794 Sully house and other historic structures.

On Friday, July 3, while Fairfax County Government offices and libraries will be closed for Independence Day, Rec Centers and some other county facilities will remain open. Farmers markets in McLean and Kingstowne will operate from 8 a.m. to noon, and the Trail Buddy app is available for those wishing to explore the county's 334 miles of scenic paths, with a reminder to hike responsibly due to the heat.

Saturday, July 4, includes a Family Friendly 5k and 1 Mile Fun Run at Lake Fairfax Park, with registration fees of $8 and $5 respectively. The Fairfax250 celebration continues with the free, self-guided Discovery Map, encouraging exploration of parks and historic sites. Additionally, Historic Huntley House Tours in Alexandria will be offered at 10:30 a.m. and noon, costing $10 for adults and $8 for children.

Sunday, July 5, features "Mill in Motion" at Colvin Run Mill in Great Falls from noon to 2 p.m., demonstrating grain grinding with a waterwheel for a $14 fee. Other Sunday activities include a Tai Chi class at Sherwood Regional Library, a Master Gardeners Plant Clinic at Pohick Regional Library, and a "Chantilly's Close-KNIT Community" gathering at Chantilly Regional Library. Looking ahead, the county also announced a Chinese Dance Performance on July 11 and a "Christmas in July" Family Skate and Dance Night on July 18.