Fairfax County is set to host a diverse range of events and activities for the Memorial Day Weekend, running from Friday, May 22, through Monday, May 25, 2026. The weekend offers opportunities to honor fallen military personnel while also marking the unofficial start of summer with various recreational and educational programs across the county.
Key attractions opening for the weekend include The Water Mine Family Swimmin' Hole at Lake Fairfax Park in Reston and Our Special Harbor at Franconia Park, both commencing operations on Saturday. These family-friendly water parks feature slides, flumes, and spray grounds. Additionally, Fairfax County Farmers Markets will be open Friday through Sunday, offering fresh produce and local goods, with SNAP benefits accepted at the Reston and Lorton locations.
Throughout the weekend, residents can engage in a variety of programs. Friday's events include Playdate Cafe sessions at library branches for young children and caregivers, a Second Chance Seed Library at John Marshall Library, Chair Yoga at Great Falls Library, and a Crochet Ami gathering at Pohick Regional Library. Saturday highlights feature "The Buzz on Bees" at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, free child safety seat inspections by Sheriff deputies, LEGO building at Great Falls Library, and self-defense classes at Kings Park Library. Historic Huntley House Tours and workshops on trading card creation and Southeast Asian spice pastes are also scheduled.
Sunday's activities include "Feeding Day" at Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, tech assistance at Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library, and "Science for Kids: Paper Airplanes" at Pohick Regional Library. Sherwood Regional Library will host "Decoration Day" for creating Memorial Day decor. On Memorial Day itself, Monday, May 25, county offices and libraries will be closed. However, special pricing for military personnel will be available at Park Authority Golf Courses, and Great Falls Park in McLean will offer free admission all day. The Fairfax County History Trail Pass also provides a mobile guide to historic sites.
Looking ahead, the county announced Braddock Bark on May 30 at Lake Accotink Park and National Trails Day on June 6, encouraging exploration of the county's 334 miles of scenic paths. Attendees are advised to check event statuses due to potential weather impacts.