It seems no matter where you go in Fairfax County, you can’t go more than a few hundred yards without finding something of historic or cultural significance. Fairfax County is rich in nearly all historic eras — be it colonial, civil war, or 20th century, and played a significant role in each. As the supervisor for the Braddock District, I want to make sure all of my constituents — and all county residents — take full advantage of this. This year marks the county’s 275th Anniversary, and on June 17, Fairfax County will hold a commemorative celebration honoring just how far the county has come.
On June 17, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the area surrounding the Historic Fairfax Courthouse located in central Fairfax (4000 Chain Bridge Road), Fairfax County’s 275th Anniversary Celebration and Historic Fair will take place. The celebration will include historically themed family-friendly activities and demonstrations, live musical performances, and more than 80 historical organizations and attractions showcasing their sites and neighborhoods. The county’s Fire and Rescue Department will display antique vehicles, and attendees can enjoy other historical displays covering events such as the Revolutionary War as well as World War I and II. Kids can enjoy a petting zoo and other fun, interactive activities.
As a special treat, the actual Lord and Lady Fairfax will be attending the celebration as our honored guests all the way from England. The Lord and Lady Fairfax will also personally present the annual Lord and Lady Fairfax Awards to their 2017 recipients. The Lord and Lady Fairfax Awards recognize community members for their volunteer work and civic engagement. Two residents are chosen from each magisterial district by each supervisor.
In addition to this visit from abroad, attendees can enjoy meals from a variety of on-site food trucks, and the event will feature speeches from county officials and guests throughout the day. Parking is available at the Historical Festival on the Safety Complex; Parking Garage B (10550 Page Ave, Fairfax). There is no rain date for this event. This is a rare, and sure to be special, event so please consider taking part in the festivities. For more information about this celebration, and to register for other events observing the county’s 275th Anniversary Celebration, you can go online to www.fxva.com/275/.
I hope you will attend the County’s 275th Anniversary Celebration this Saturday, and help fill your summer with not only ways to explore the county you call home, but also gather with friends and neighbors for activities that are culturally enriching. You are sure to find something about your county that you didn’t know before.
Most importantly, I hope you enjoy a safe and happy summer with all of your friends and neighbors.