For one morning this weekend, a popular nature center in Northern Virginia will transform into an enchanted woodland filled with fairy houses, hidden magical creatures and family-friend
ly activities.
The annual Fairy Festival is returning to Walker Nature Center on Saturday, July 18th, inviting children and adults alike to step into a storybook-inspired celebration complete with crafts, fairy trails and visits from the Fairy Queen.
The annual event has become a favorite summer tradition for local families, encouraging guests to come dressed in fairy costumes while exploring nature through imaginative play.
If you’re looking for a unique family outing in the Washington, D.C. area this weekend, here’s everything you need to know before you go.
When and where is the Reston Fairy Festival taking place?
The Reston Fairy Festival will take place on Saturday, July 18th, from 10 am to 12:30 pm at Walker Nature Center, located at 11450 Glade Drive in Reston, Virginia.
Throughout the morning, families can stroll along a woodland trail decorated with whimsical fairy houses while searching for hidden fairies and colorful mushrooms tucked throughout the forest.
Visitors can also sip tea and enjoy a cookie while listening to a story from the Fairy Queen, create fairy-themed crafts and build their own fairy houses during the event.
Guests are also invited to participate in an optional Fairy House Contest by building a homemade fairy house before the festival.
Attendees will vote for their favorites, with prizes awarded for the best child-created entry and the best adult or family creation.
What to know before you go to the Reston Fairy Festival
The festival is designed with families and young children in mind, making it one of the area’s more unique kid-focused summer events.
Activities are centered around imaginative play, outdoor exploration and hands-on crafts that encourage children to interact with nature in a fun and creative way.
Both children and adults are encouraged to wear fairy costumes, helping transform the woodland setting into a magical experience for everyone attending.
Whether your little one arrives dressed as a fairy, elf, woodland creature or another fantasy character, costumes are part of the fun.
The event is open to all ages, making it a great weekend activity for families looking to spend time outdoors together.
Is the Reston Fairy Festival free to attend?
No. The Reston Fairy Festival is a ticketed event with admission costing $10 for Reston Association members and $15 for non-members.
Advance registration is required by July 15 for all adults and children 18 months and older, so families should reserve their spots before heading to the festival.
Registration is available through the Reston Association’s event page.
Because attendance is limited and registration is required in advance, organizers recommend signing up early if you’re planning to attend this popular family event.
