Events
Free Art & Nature Class for Kids & Teens: Dried Floral Wall Hanging Craft
Biodiversity Walk at Oak Spring Garden
Overview: Join the Oak Spring Biodiversity Conservation Team for a biodiversity walk across the forests and meadows at OSGF. The morning will consist of a walking tour across parts of the 700-acre property to observe and highlight notable biota, such as birds, insects, mammals, and plant communities, and discuss ongoing projects and collaborations. Novice and seasoned wildlife watchers welcome.
The Oak Spring estate, protected by Paul and Bunny Mellon as part of a conservation easement, features a rich mixture of fields, meadows, woods, streams, and wetlands. OSGF is actively stewarding the land to protect and foster wildlife communities on the estate. In accordance with the mission of the Foundation, OSGF’s Biodiversity Conservation Team is actively working to inventory the diversity of plants and animals on site, cultivate their habitats, and share these biotic treasures with the public.
What to Expect: Please expect several hours of moderate walking across hilly fields and similar uneven terrain. Participants should arrive with proper footwear, sufficient water, and dress appropriately for the weather, rain or shine. Binoculars and digital cameras encouraged. Light refreshments will be provided at the start of the walk.
Weather Update: In the event of inclement weather or heavy rain, the event will be canceled and participants will be notified by Eventbrite email the day before.
Twilite Hikes at Sky Meadows State Park
Explore an enchanting evening amidst the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains as the sun sets and the world transitions from day to night! Embark on an easy to moderate guided hike that winds through lush forests, open fields, and picturesque meadows. Experience the magic of twilight as the landscape transforms under the fading light and wildlife becomes more active during this mystical time of day. Hike distance will be approximately 2 to 2.5 miles and last 1.5 to 2 hours. Spaces are limited and registration is highly encouraged. Sign up today here!
Please dress for the weather, wear footwear appropriate for hiking and bring water/snacks for all hikes. Leashed pets are welcome on all hikes.
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes. $10
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-592-3556
Email Address: [email protected]
Twilite Hikes at Sky Meadow State Park
Lost Mountain Entrance
Explore an enchanting evening amidst the rolling Blue Ridge Mountains as the sun sets and the world transitions from day to night! Embark on an easy to moderate guided hike that winds through lush forests, open fields, and picturesque meadows. Experience the magic of twilight as the landscape transforms under the fading light and wildlife becomes more active during this mystical time of day. Hike distance will be approximately 2 to 2.5 miles and last 1.5 to 2 hours. Spaces are limited and registration is highly encouraged. Sign up today HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/twilight-hikes-tickets-1026922401547?aff=oddtdtcreator
Please dress for the weather, wear footwear appropriate for hiking and bring water/snacks for all hikes. Leashed pets are welcome on all hikes.
Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: Yes.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-592-3556
Email Address: [email protected]
Valentine’s Dinner at Ovoka Farm
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a unique dining experience at historic Ovoka Farm. Join Resident Chef Ellie McMillen for a four-course tasting dinner inspired by the vibrant flavors of Morocco, featuring the Ovoka F1 Wagyu beef, locally sourced ingredients, and curated wine pairings.
Dine at our intimate community table, where the warm ambiance and shared experience create the perfect setting to celebrate love and connection. Seating is limited, so reserve your spot now to make this Valentine’s Day truly unforgettable!
Make it a romantic getaway and stay the night in a room in the Ovoka Manor Home and wake up to the beauty of our farm and surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Overnight add-on ticket at ticket checkout.
Raise a glass and explore the world via exquisite flavor at the next dinner in our Global Meets Local at the Ovoka Farm Table series.
Valentine’s Day Tasting Dinner
Friday, February 14th
6:30 pm
The Historic Ovoka Farm Manor Home
Paris, Virginia
$135 + service charge
Free Art & Nature Class for Kids & Teens: Dried Floral Wall Hanging Craft
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy for Everyone
Historic Area
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration. To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/.
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass. The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes.
$10/car parking fee.
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged.
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows, 540-592-3556, [email protected]
The Final Resting Place of John F. Kennedy: A Conversation
Join us for a captivating discussion about the burial of President John F. Kennedy at Arlington National Cemetery, the creation of his gravesite, and the fascinating story behind an abandoned memorial wreath. Elinor Crane, who played a key role in the search for this long-forgotten memorial, will be joined by Sgt. James Felder, who led President Kennedy’s Honor Guard during the somber days following the assassination, including the ceremonial burial on November 25, 1963.
A poignant moment from the burial ceremony was when the Honor Guard, representing all branches of the U.S. military, removed their caps as a final mark of respect before leaving the grave. These caps were placed on the grave and remained there until April 1967. This inspired the concept of a memorial wreath, designed by renowned French jewelry designer Jean Schlumberger of Tiffany & Co. and crafted by sculptor and goldsmith Louis Féron. Though prepared for installation, the wreath project was quietly abandoned in the early 1970s.
Years later, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Elinor Crane and Nancy Collins from the Oak Spring Garden Foundation undertook extensive research to track down the missing wreath. Their efforts led to the remarkable discovery of the memorial, which had been stored in the offsite collections of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum under the sculptor’s name, “Féron.”
Moderated by Sir Peter Crane, President of the Oak Spring Garden Foundation, this event will delve into the untold story of President Kennedy’s gravesite memorial, the artistry behind the wreath, and the historical journey to rediscover a lost symbol of national remembrance.
Registration and Arrival:
This event will be capped at 100 attendees. Registrations will be accepted on a rolling basis through Eventbrite until full. Doors for the lecture will open at 10:00am with light refreshments. The lecture will officially begin at 10:30am.
Please note: Copies of Sgt Felder’s book will be available for purchase with cash only.
Mardi Gras BBQ Feast w/Wine or Beer Pairings from Three Fox Vineyards!
Join us at Three Fox Vineyards on Saturday, March 1st, for a festive Mardi Gras delectable BBQ feast crafted by seasoned caterer Roger of The District Pit, perfectly paired with your choice of a beer or wine flight.
Menu Highlights:
🔥 Smoked roast beef, chicken, and pork sausage with Cajun spices
🧀 Macaroni & Cheese
🥣 Baked Beans
🥗 Pasta Salad
🍰 Dessert
This event is a perfect way to celebrate Mardi Gras with delicious food, fantastic drinks, and great company. Space is limited—reserve your spot today at the link below!
Invasive Plant Species- Management and Control
Overview: Join the Oak Spring Arboriculture, Conservation and Landscapes for an in-depth workshop on managing invasive plant species. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of various treatment methods and hands-on experience in identifying and applying effective management techniques in the field.
The workshop will begin with an introduction to essential tools and treatment strategies, followed by practical, on-site demonstrations. Topics will include:
- Identification of common invasive plant species
- Timing and application of different treatment methods
- Challenges and considerations for managing current and emerging invasive species
IMPORTANT: Please do not bring your own pruning tools or plant material.
What to Expect: Participants can expect to walk about 2 miles over uneven terrain. Sturdy walking shoes or boots as well as proper outdoor clothing are required. Light refreshments and snacks will be provided to all participants.
This event will take place on the Rokeby Farm portion of OSGF and will not include a tour of the library, formal garden, or main residence.
Basics of Pruning
Overview: Join our Arboriculture, Conservation, and Landscapes (ACL) team for an interactive workshop on pruning woody plants. The session will begin with an indoor presentation covering the fundamentals of pruning, including best practices and techniques for maintaining plant health.
Participants will then gain hands-on experience using and maintaining pruning tools, working with containerized plants to apply their new skills. The workshop will take place indoors and, weather permitting, outdoors under cover at our Pavilion. Please dress in layers and bring gloves and appropriate footwear for comfort and safety.
Light refreshments and snacks will be provided. This workshop is ideal for novice and exerperienced gardeners of all levels looking to enhance their pruning knowledge and techniques.
This event will take place on the Rokeby Farm portion of OSGF. The event will not include a tour of the formal garden, or main residence.
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Astronomy For Everyone at Sky Meadows
Historic Area.
Discover our International Dark-Sky Park! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children’s “Junior Astronomer” program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night’s beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration.
To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings please visit their website at https://www.novac.com/wp/observing/ .
To expedite your payment process, we encourage you to pay ahead online at https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/daily-pass . The confirmation code must be presented at the gate. To learn more about the Virginia State Park Annual Pass visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/passes .
Details:
-Registration is not required, but highly encouraged. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/astronomy-for-everyone-tickets-1077599110949 .
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]