Independence Day 2013- Mason Neck State Park

     As a lover of the outdoors, there is no question that you would want to have celebrations in nature. As you already know, Independence Day is this week and celebration is certainly in order. What better way to celebrate than near one of the founding fathers' homes? George Mason's home, that is. It's true, as you could be celebrating Independence Day at the Mason Neck State Park.
     Taking place directly on the day, July 4th, will be picnicking and hiking as well as other outdoor activities great for all ages. There will be programs led by park rangers and programs you can participate in on your own during the day. Several hours of activities, food, and fun are waiting for you. If you are considering joining the festivities, don't hesitate.

Date: Thursday, July 4, 2013
Time: 10:00am - 5:00pm
*Admission is free

Mason Neck State Park

7301 High Point Road

Lorton, VA 22079

www.dcr.virginia.gov

     For more information, call 703-339-2380 or email masonneck@dcr.virginia.gov

Full Moon Kayak Trip

     This upcoming weekend, you could be making plans to have an evening on the water. At Belle Isle State Park, a Full Moon Kayak Trip is taking place during the night hours and you could be a part of the event. During your trip across the waters you can learn about the full moon and its effects on nature. You can view the beautiful reflection of the moon on the water as you paddle and enjoy the warm summer weather. You should free up your Sunday evening and join up! Reservations are required and it is recommended to register one day prior to the event. Why not make it a group outing and bring along some friends?
     There is a nominal fee to participate and it varies depending on the type of kayak you choose(i.e. single, tandem). You will have a professional guide and equipment will be administered to you. Simply visit the Camp store to retrieve them. For more information about the park, visit the following link:
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/bel.shtml.

Date: Sunday June 23, 2013
Time: 8:00pm- 10:00pm
Price: $8.00 for single, $12.00 for double(tandem)

Belle Isle State Park
1632 Belle Isle Rd
Lancaster, VA 22503 
804-462-5030

Date Night: Chef's Table

     What do you have planned this upcoming Saturday? Are you looking for something to do this weekend with a friend or loved one? If you like cooking or think of it as something you can enjoy doing as a pass time, you can make a night of it by attending Chef's Night at the Workhouse Arts Center. By participating in this class, you can learn some basic cooking techniques and even learn a new recipe. The dishes range from ethnic meals such as Spanish and even Vegetarian meals. Reserve a slot today!

Date: Saturday June 15, 2013
Time: 8:00pm - 10:00pm
Price: $80 per couple*
Location: W-16: Vulcan Gallery Venue 

Workhouse Arts Center
9601 Ox Rd
Lorton, VA 22079
703-584-2900

*Reservations are required and must be made at least 2 days before the event date.

For more information, visit http://www.workhousearts.org/events/general-events/date-night-chefs-table-9

2013 Summer Sounds Concerts- The Center for the Arts

     The Center for the Arts hosts a number of free concerts every year, and it's that time of year once again! Concerts are on Saturday evenings, and you should stop by. Make a date of these events and bring something to relax on, as well as something to eat. Starting this month, you can enjoy the 2013 Summer
Sounds Concerts. Sponsored by Micron Technology Foundation and the City of Manassas, they are happy to offer such an opportunity to the public and look forward to seeing you attend!
image from www.center-for-the-arts.org
Date: Saturday, June 22 2013
Performances: Bagpipes and Celtic Dancers
Time: 6:30pm
Location: Harris Pavilion

For more times and events, visit their website at http://www.center-for-the-arts.org/programs/summer-sounds-concerts/ or call 703-330-2787

Harris Pavilion
9116 Center St
Manassas VA 20110 

If you would like to learn more about the Center, visit them at www.center-for-the-arts.org

Lunchtime Tour of the Conservatory-May 2013

     The United States Botanic Garden is hosting wonderful tours of their establishment, including a lunchtime tour of their conservatory. It will be a one hour tour and you can learn about the different plants they possess.

     Built in 1933, this greenhouse holds two courtyard gardens and ten garden rooms under a roof of glass; a total of 28,944 square feet. Click here to learn more about the Conservatory.

United States Botanic Garden

Location: Conservatory Garden Court

Date: Wednesday, May 29th 2013

Time: 12:00pm- 1:00pm

*admission is free

 
100 Maryland Avenue SW

Washington, DC 20001

(202) 225-8333

Cool Cow Comedy presents: Ryan Conner

     Cool Cow Comedy's monthly comedy series will be coming to the Workhouse Arts Center with two shows this Memorial Day weekend. 
      Cool Cow Comedy has featured many different comedians over its course including those featured on Comedy Central and MTV, and movie channels such as HBO.
     For the evening shows, Cool Cow Comedy will be featuring Ryan Conner, an established comedian who has done many shows and even was a contributing writer for Saturday Night Live. You can learn more about Ryan on his website.

Date: Saturday, May 25 2013

Times: 7:00pm, 9:00pm

Ticket price: $15

*Special Deal: $12 tickets for the 9pm show when you purchase 4 tickets! Coupon Code: 12DOLLAR upon checkout. Offer only good for the 9pm show when 4 tickets are purchased.

Lorton Arts Foundation

Workhouse Arts Center

9601 Ox Rd

Lorton,VA 22079

(703) 495-0001



Cinco De Mayo- 2013

     Today marks the day of celebration for Mexican culture and heritage. It is also the 151st anniversary of a victory over France during the Franco-Mexican war (fought 1861-1867) at the Battle of Puebla.

     Often celebration includes parades, parties, mariachi music, dancing and traditional foods. In fact, the United States celebrates this event largely in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston with huge festival events. You can read more on the history of this day at history.com.

     Celebrating culture and heritage with parties can happen anywhere. You could be going to a party today, enjoying this afternoon and evening. You may even be hosting one, and there are plenty of recipes for creating dishes that your guests will enjoy.

     Happy Cinco de Mayo, and enjoy the festivities!