Events
Mini Moos Farm Tour at Ovoka Farm
Experience farmyard fun like never before at our Mini-Moo Tours! Come to Ovoka Farm and meet our adorable bottle calves, Flo the donkey, and lovable equine duo, Mini and Princess. Engage in hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations designed to teach children about the wonders of farm life and where food comes from.
All children must be accompanied and fully supervised by a guardian throughout the duration of the tour. Please limit one adult per child. Buy 3 sessions, get one free. Please make us aware of any food allergies.
2024 Summer Plant Camp: Where Green Thumbs and Creative Minds Blossom!
-Plant-tastic activities
-Wild adventures filled with farm education
-Nature-based learning
-Engaging farm-to-table projects
-Storytime in the garden
-June 24-June 28
-July 22-July 26
-July 28-August 2
*Daily from 9am-3pm
Age groups: 6-9 and 9-12
Cost: $225
Free camp t-shirt included!
Wine Until 9 at Arterra Wines and Hawkmoth Arts
ADMISSION IS FREE…..
Every 1st Friday and 2nd Saturday May-October you may join us for these extended hours events. This is a Rain or Shine gathering, Arterra is a beautiful place to visit in all kinds of weather and all seasons!!
UNWIND and let go of daily stressors….
Tucked in the forest surrounded by the beauty of nature offers you a chance to relax and let loose a bit. Listen to some live music by local musicians playing some acoustic folk style tunes.
LIVE A LITTLE, especially in the moment….
SAVOR our cleanly crafted wines…..ALONG WITH our new food partner, Gaucho Bros!
RAIN OR SHINE!!
Summer Blooms Workshop: Botany and Bloom Series
Carriage Barn in the Historic Area.
Curious about what flowers you see blooming in Sky Meadows’ fields during the summer heat? Join Shenandoah Chapter Virginia Master Naturalist Paul Guay on an adventure to discover the beauty and diversity of summer blooms. Begin in the park’s Carriage Barn with an informative introductory presentation on summer-blooming flowers, their associated pollinators, tips and tricks to their identification and more. Following the presentation, enjoy an approximate 3-mile guided hike through the park’s flower-filled meadows, culminating at the Piedmont Environmental Council’s Memorial Overlook, a hot spot for a diversity of summer blooms. Bring water and lunch to eat along the trail, dress appropriately, and wear sturdy shoes.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
The Farmer’s Forge
Historic Area.
The forge is fired up and the blacksmiths are hard at work showing off their skills. Members of the Blacksmiths’ Guild of the Potomac have set up shop in the forge, located behind the Dairy Barn in the Historic Area. See them fashion iron into helpful tools and kitchen items used around the farm. Purchase handmade goods made right on site. To learn more about the guild, visit https://bgop.org/ .
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
The Settle’s Kettle at Sky Meadows State park
Log Cabin in the Historic Area.
Follow your nose to the Log Cabin to see what is cooking on the hearth. Explore history through food and how it connects us to past generations. Explore farming practices of Virginians in the Crooked Run Valley and the influences of cooking traditions. Learn about the cooking methods of early European settlers and the African people who were enslaved here and were a part of life on this historic farm.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Mini Moos Farm Tour at Ovoka Farm
Experience farmyard fun like never before at our Mini-Moo Tours! Come to Ovoka Farm and meet our adorable bottle calves, Flo the donkey, and lovable equine duo, Mini and Princess. Engage in hands-on activities and interactive demonstrations designed to teach children about the wonders of farm life and where food comes from.
All children must be accompanied and fully supervised by a guardian throughout the duration of the tour. Please limit one adult per child. Buy 3 sessions, get one free. Please make us aware of any food allergies.
Wine Until 9 at Arterra Wines and Hawkmoth Arts
ADMISSION IS FREE…..
Every 1st Friday and 2nd Saturday May-October you may join us for these extended hours events. This is a Rain or Shine gathering, Arterra is a beautiful place to visit in all kinds of weather and all seasons!!
UNWIND and let go of daily stressors….
Tucked in the forest surrounded by the beauty of nature offers you a chance to relax and let loose a bit. Listen to some live music by local musicians playing some acoustic folk style tunes.
LIVE A LITTLE, especially in the moment….
SAVOR our cleanly crafted wines…..ALONG WITH our new food partner, Gaucho Bros!
RAIN OR SHINE!!
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 .
Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows, 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Biodiversity Nature Walk at Oak Spring Garden Foundation
Overview: Join the 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 highlight spring flora and fauna as well as conservation land management practices implemented here at the foundation. 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. Binoculars and digital cameras encouraged.
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.
Photo Release Statement: By attending this event, you consent to your likeness and image being used for ongoing promotional and marketing efforts.
Availability: This Biodiversity Walk will be capped at 15 participants. Registrations will be accepted on a rolling basis through Eventbrite until full.
Biodiversity Nature Walk at Oak Springs Garden Foundation
Join the 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 highlight spring flora and fauna as well as conservation land management practices implemented here at the foundation. 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. Binoculars and digital cameras encouraged.
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.
Photo Release Statement: By attending this event, you consent to your likeness and image being used for ongoing promotional and marketing efforts.
Habitat Detectives
Picnic Area.
Take a walk of exploration with two Virginia Master Naturalists in this series of seasonal walks planned for children. Use your five senses to find clues to how various organisms – plants, animals, and more – work together to survive in this forest community. Recommended age 7 – 11, with parents, of course. This guided three-tenths of a mile gentle walk will meet at the Sensory Explorers’ Trail in the Picnic Area and will last approximately one hour.
For more information on the Virginia Master Naturalists please visit http://www.virginiamasternaturalist.org/ .
The Sensory Explorers’ Trail is open for self-guided walks daily for people of all ages and has adaptations for the blind and visually impaired. To learn more about this feature visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows#recreation .
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Historic Area.
Celebrate National Honeybee Day and get the “buzz” on bees at Sky Meadows! Learn about beekeeping, honeybees, and the art of apiculture. Follow your nose to the Log Cabin and delve into special honey themed recipes. Local honey will be for sale while supplies last.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Historic Area.
Join insect royalty as we search for Monarch caterpillars and eggs which, due to habitat loss, have reached endangered levels. Join park rangers and Virginia Master Naturalists as they set out to collect milkweed and gather Monarch caterpillars to raise in the park’s Visitor Center. The walk to the collection site is approximately 1.5 miles. Collection is located in high grassy areas; long pants and closed-toed shoes are highly encouraged. Water, sunscreen, and bug spray are also recommended.
Prior to the outdoor exploration, learn how to protect this species and improve their habitat with a lecture on Landscaping for Monarch Butterflies by Virginia Master Naturalist, Paul Guay beginning at 10 a.m.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Twilight Hikes at Sky Meadows 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 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.
Please dress for the weather, wear footwear appropriate for hiking, and bring water/snacks. Leashed pets are welcome on all hikes.
Additional dates and times:
Sept. 13, 2024. 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Oct. 11, 2024. 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Nov. 15, 2024. 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Paint Out: In the Walled Garden – Independent Work Session for Artists
Overview: The Oak Spring Garden Foundation is pleased to host this unique opportunity for practicing artists to visit and paint, draw or create other works inspired by the beauty found within the formal walled garden of Rachel “Bunny” Mellon.
This event is designed for practicing artists, such as plein air painters or botanical illustrators, or other artists who work outdoors and who are able to bring their own supplies and materials. We are, therefore, requesting that only artists who are comfortable working independently register for this event.
This event does not include a formal site tour and artists will not have access to the Oak Spring Library or any other location outside of the formal walled garden.
What to Bring:
- Any and all necessary art supplies and materials
- An easel (if desired)
- A stool or folding chair to sit on
- Hat and/or sunscreen
- Bug Spray
- Weather appropriate clothing
- Water bottle
- Snacks (if desired)
About Oak Spring Garden Foundation: The Oak Spring Garden Foundation (OSGF) is a philanthropic foundation based at the former primary estate of the late Paul and Rachel Mellon, who were major philanthropists in the U.S. of the arts, humanities, and sciences in the second half of the twentieth century. OSGF is located in the northern Virginia Piedmont and Blue Ridge Mountains region (ca. one-hour drive from Washington, D.C.). Led by Sir Peter Crane, the Foundation’s inaugural President, OSGF provides workshops, short courses and supports residencies for artists and scholars. Its celebrated Library comprises rare books, manuscripts and works of art relating to horticulture, landscape design, botany and natural history. It is becoming a new center of stimulation of all things botanical, from fundamental research in plant evolution and conservation, to horticultural and plant conservation practice, to the history and art of plants, gardens and landscapes.
Photo Release Statement: By attending this event, you consent to your likeness and image being used for ongoing promotional and marketing efforts.
Availability: This event will be capped at 25 participants. Registrations will be accepted on a rolling basis through Eventbrite until full.
Picnic Area.
Explore the rich natural history of trees guided by a Virginia Master Naturalist. Discover the tips and tricks of basic tree identification and the tree-mendous roles trees play in our environment. Discover the traditional uses and folklore of these wooden wonders. This guided three-tenths of a mile gentle walk will meet at the Sensory Explorers’ Trail in the Picnic Area and will last approximately one hour.
For more information on the Virginia Master Naturalists, please visit http://www.virginiamasternaturalist.org/ .
The Sensory Explorers’ Trail is open for self-guided walks daily for people of all ages and has adaptations for the blind and visually impaired. To learn more about this feature, visit https://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/sky-meadows#recreation .
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]
Wine Until 9 at Arterra Wines and Hawkmoth Arts
ADMISSION IS FREE…..
Every 1st Friday and 2nd Saturday May-October you may join us for these extended hours events. This is a Rain or Shine gathering, Arterra is a beautiful place to visit in all kinds of weather and all seasons!!
UNWIND and let go of daily stressors….
Tucked in the forest surrounded by the beauty of nature offers you a chance to relax and let loose a bit. Listen to some live music by local musicians playing some acoustic folk style tunes.
LIVE A LITTLE, especially in the moment….
SAVOR our cleanly crafted wines…..ALONG WITH our new food partner, Gaucho Bros!
RAIN OR SHINE!!
Floral Arranging Class at Oak Spring
Overview:
The Oak Spring Foundation Garden team is pleased to invite you to a late summer flower arranging workshop. Participants will learn the fundamentals of floral design, the traditional Mellon style, and see examples of the arrangements that would have adorned her home, as well as work with flowers grown on site at the OSGF Cut Flower Garden and Biocultural Conservation Farm.
What wil be Provided:
Materials, tools, and seasonal snacks and refreshments will be provided, and guests will leave with their own small vase and arrangement. There will be a morning and afternoon session of this workshop. Participants are welcome to sign up for either session, based on availability.
Please note: This event does not include a tour of Little Oak Spring including the Library, Formal Garden or Landscape.
About OSGF: The Oak Spring Garden Foundation (OSGF) is a philanthropic foundation based at the former primary estate of the late Paul and Rachel Mellon, who were major philanthropists in the U.S. of the arts, humanities, and sciences in the second half of the twentieth century. OSGF is located in the northern Virginia Piedmont and Blue Ridge Mountains region (ca. one-hour drive from Washington, D.C.). Led by Sir Peter Crane, the Foundation’s inaugural President, OSGF provides short courses and supports residencies for artists and scholars. Its celebrated Library comprises rare books, manuscripts and works of art relating to horticulture, landscape design, botany and natural history. It is becoming a new center of stimulation of all things botanical, from fundamental research in plant evolution and conservation, to horticultural and plant conservation practice, to the history and art of plants, gardens and landscapes.
Availability: Designing with Florals will be capped at 20 participants, 10 for the morning session and 10 for the afternoon session. Registrations will be accepted on a rolling basis through Eventbrite until full.
The Settle’s Kettle at Sky Meadows State Park
Log Cabin in the Historic Area.
Follow your nose to the Log Cabin to see what is cooking on the hearth. Explore history through food and how it connects us to past generations. Explore farming practices of Virginians in the Crooked Run Valley and the influences of cooking traditions. Learn about the cooking methods of early European settlers and the African people who were enslaved here and were a part of life on this historic farm.
$10/car parking fee.
More info: 540-592-3556, [email protected]