The annual Fairfax Carnival and 4-H Fair is set to return to Frying Pan Farm Park from July 30 through August 2, offering a range of old-fashioned family fun for the Hunter Mill District community. The event will feature classic carnival rides, live entertainment, farm animal visits, and exhibits showcasing projects by local 4-H youth.
Attendees can purchase discounted unlimited ride wristbands for $25 until July 30 at 10 a.m. After this presale period, wristbands will be available for $30 online or in-person at the fair from Thursday 10 a.m. to Friday 3 p.m. Individual ride tickets will also be sold at the fair.
The carnival opens on July 30 with rides and games, followed by "Big Truck Night" on July 31 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., allowing children to explore heavy equipment and watch demonstrations. The 4-H Fair Opening Ceremony is scheduled for August 1 at 10 a.m., with exhibits, animal shows, and free family activities continuing until 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, concluding with a closing ceremony.
Supervisor Walter Alcorn invites residents to a free concert by jazz vocalist Sharon Rae North on July 30 at 7 p.m. at Frying Pan Farm Park, part of the Hunter Mill Melodies Series. Alcorn said he would be present for the fair’s ceremonial kick-off around 6:30 p.m. and to welcome North to the stage.
In other district news, the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval for the 47-acre Reston Town Center North redevelopment this past Wednesday. The proposal, which includes plans for a new Reston Regional Library and Embry Rucker Homeless Shelter to be built by early 2030, now moves to the Board of Supervisors for a public hearing on September 15. The project also envisions a future recreation center, athletic field, public school, and up to 1,000 residential units, medical, office, and retail spaces on Inova’s properties.
Both the Reston Planning and Zoning Committee and Supervisor Alcorn's Hunter Mill Land Use Committee are seeking new volunteers to review land use proposals and advise on development plans. Reston residents interested in joining the Reston committee can apply online by September 1 at 5 p.m.