The 25th Annual Eagle Festival at Mason Neck State Park in Lorton returns on May 13.
This family-friendly event is free, and there will be two early morning bird walks led by volunteers from the Audubon of Virginia. Both walks begin at the Bay View Trailhead near the picnic area.
The first bird walk is at 8:15 a.m., and the second is at 9 a.m. The walks are free to the public but limited to 15 participants for each walk. Registration will be required, and to register, interested guests should visit mnsp.eventbrite.com.
The Eagle Festival includes live animal shows, hands-on educational opportunities, and outdoor recreation clinics that all aim to highlight the rich natural history of Northern Virginia and foster stewardship of our environment.
“New this year will be a special performance by Janice the Griot, a multi-cultural storyteller based out of Maryland,” said Mason Neck Park Chief Ranger of Visitor Experience Jamie Leeuwrik. “Weather permitting, we will be bringing back the Boating Bonanza at the paddle launch, where participants may use a canoe, kayak or paddle board on Belmont Bay.”
This event celebrates the decades of conservation work that has taken place on the Mason Neck Peninsula. Had it not been for the work done by individuals like Elizabeth Hartwell, nicknamed “The Eagle Lady” and for whom the Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge is named, the area would look drastically different today. Eagle Festival is an opportunity to unite the local community for programs and activities, all in the name of conservation and preservation.
“Conservation efforts began to save the bald eagle, but there have been so many other species of flora and fauna that have benefitted from the thousands of acres of public land preserved along the peninsula,” said Mason Neck State Park Manager Lance Elzie. “Eagle Festival is a day where we can all come together to celebrate the work that has been done in the past and learn how to continue that work in the future while also having fun.”
Guests will have the opportunity to see live reptiles, hawks and owls up close as well as learn about the park’s resident bald eagles and see them fly overhead. There will be live music, food, pony and wagon rides and exhibits from conservation partners.
For more event details visit virginiastateparks.gov/
Mason Neck Park sits at 7301 High Point Road in Lorton.
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A Night on the Riviera
Experience a magical evening at the Embassy of France with A Night on the Riviera, an event that will transport you to the glamour of the French Riviera while celebrating the vibrant spirit of Mardi Gras!
Indulge in an exquisite selection of French wines and champagne, paired with the finest French cuisine prepared by the talented Chef of the Embassy of France. Additionally, Chef Hugh Cossard will be carving ham live, ensuring freshness and exceptional flavor. Don’t miss out on the authentic French crêpes, made to order and sure to transport you straight to the streets of Nice.
For those seeking an extra touch of exclusivity, the VIP experience includes unlimited champagne, adding an extra layer of sophistication to this festive celebration.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
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