Fairfax County Weekender: What's Doing in the Parks

Looking for plans this weekend? Fairfax County’s Weekender has the scoop on plenty of weekend activities including wagon rides today at Huntley Meadows:

Saturday, Aug. 29: Intriguing Insects

Meadow Bug Hunt: The meadow is a-buzz with insect life. Capture and release amazing insects and other arthropods. From 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at E.C. Lawrence Park. Wear long pants and closed shoes; insect repellant and field guides are optional. $5/person. Register online. For information, call 703-631-0013.

Also on Saturday:

Starlight Cinema: “Paddington” is this week’s fun feature. Rated PG. Gates open at 6 p.m.; movie starts at dark at 5860 Trinity Center Parkway. Free. For information, call 703-324-7469.

Ryan Shupe & the Rubber Band: The five-member group from Utah will entertain you with acoustic instruments and virtuosic jamming. From 7 to 8 p.m. to the Quad at the Workhouse Arts Center. Free. For information, call 703-324-7469.

David Cole and Main Street Blues: A favorite of the D.C. Blues Society, this native Washingtonian brings the full range of his experience as one of the area’s most versatile musicians. From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Ossian Hall Park. Free. For information, call 703-324-7469.

Sunday, Aug. 30: Bridge to a Fun Bear

Wagon Ride to Poohsticks Bridge: Journey through the woods to Poohsticks Bridge to listen to Winnie the Pooh’s story and play Poohsticks on the bridge. From 11 a.m. to noon at Riverbend Park. Children must be accompanied by a registered adult. $5/person. Register online. For information, call 703-759-9018.


Also on Sunday:

Sunrise Kayak Tour : Enjoy breathtaking sunrise views over the Potomac River on this naturalist-led tour. From 7 to 9 a.m. at Riverbend Park. Ages 14 and up. No previous experience required. Kayaks provided. Download waiver, complete and bring it to the tour. $38/person. Register online. For information, call 703-759-9018.

Intro to River Kayaking : This introductory course covers river hazards, water safety and paddling basics. From 10 to 10:30 a.m. at Riverbend Park. Ages 14 and up. Fee includes equipment and same-day, half-day kayak rental. Cancelled if inclement weather or hazardous river conditions. $29/person. Register online. For information, call 703-759-9018.

Fringe Benefits Band: Have fun with classic rock and Motown. While you’re there, visit the farmers market, open on Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. and pick up locally grown fruits, veggies, meats and more. Concert runs from 3 to 4 p.m. on the Quad at the Workhouse Arts Center. Free. For information, call703-584-2900.

Tom Principato Band: Prepare to be wowed by their blues and Americana music. From 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Mason District Park Amphitheater. Free. For information, call 703-324-7469.