Community Corner

NatureFest Returns to Runnymede Park This Sunday

Plus, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Chimney Swift Tower recently built at the park's entrance.

Correction: The free shuttle will take off from the Herndon Police Station, 397 Herndon Parkway, not the credit union.

Back by popular demand, the Friends of Runnymede Park will present NatureFest this Sunday, Oct. 6, in partnership with Herndon Parks and Recreation.

Bring the whole family to appreciate the beauty of Runnymede Park in the cooler, breezy fall weather, while also learning a bit about nature and science.

It all takes place on Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.

New this year - come a bit early at 12:45 p.m. for a very special ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Chimney Swift Tower, a tall, narrow structure that Friends of Runnymede Park sponsored the building of recently, at the park's entrance. The tower serves as a resting place for the unique chimney swift bird, helping to increase their numbers in Herndon.

What's in store for NatureFest 2013?

As usual, the Wildlife Center of Virginia will be bringing some of their amazing animals they have been rescuing for decades.

And, there will be many stations where families can learn about nature and participate in fun activities. Here are some of the stations guests will find this year:

  • Web of Life: Learn about how, no matter how big or small, we are all connected, in this fun role-playing game.
  • Nature Crafts: Create a special treasure to take home with you, or get your face painted.
  • Bees and Their Life Inside the Hive: Learn what it truly means to be "busy as a bee."
  • Bring Back the Monarchs: Monarchs are in trouble - learn what you can do to help by watching the skit, "Monarchs and Milkweed."
  • Macroinvertebrates: A big word for the small creatures that live in our stream - you can see them through our microscope.
  • The Three 'Rs': Reduce, reuse, recycle. Get some helpful tips from the Herndon Department of Public Works.
  • Animals That Live in Our Park: Learn about the animals that live in Runnymede Park through live presentations by the Blue Ridge Wildlife Center and the Wildlife Center of Virginia.
  • Life in the Meadow: Learn what makes a meadow, and get a close-up look at the insects that live there.
  • Fairfax County Health Department: Learn how to protect yourself from mosquitoes and ticks and the diseases they carry.
  • Home Depot: Build a birdhouse with the staff of Home Depot.

  • The Wonderful World of Birds: Build a birdfeeder, dissect an owl pellet, or use binoculars to find birds in the trees.
  • Herndon Environmental Network: Learn about "black gold" and how to make it.
  • Snakes, Toads and Turtles: Get to know them and how they help their ecosystems.

Food will be sold by JJ Deli of Herndon.

Carol Hadlock, a member of the Friends of Runnymede Park, says NatureFest is a beloved tradition in town and a great day for families to spend together.

"NatureFest is really 'hands-on.'  All of the stations have some activity for visitors to do," she said. "It's a great way to walk through the park, learn about many aspects of nature, see live animals up-close, and just enjoy an afternoon in the fresh air. It's very family-friendly, and it's free!"

Parking is limited, so carpooling, walking and bike-riding are encouraged. 

Parking is available on the street on Herndon Parkway. 

There is also overflow parking and a free shuttle that will take off from the Herndon Police Station at 397 Herndon Parkway.

Runnymede Park is located at 195 Herndon Parkway.

For more information about the Friends of Runnymede Park, visit their website.


TELL US - Are you a fan of NatureFest? Will you be attending this year? What are your favorite aspects of the annual event? Tell us in the comments below.

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