Spring in the Virginia Piedmont: Family-Friendly Events You’ll Actually Want to Add to Your Calendar
- Karissa Epley
- Apr 14
- 3 min read
Since moving to the Virginia Piedmont, I’ve noticed a funny thing happens the moment we thaw from that last March frost: events of all kinds come bursting out of the woodwork. Some of this, I’m sure, is the season—and some of it is just parenting.
As early as January, we’ve been juggling a packed calendar: after-school activities, birthday party invites, horseback riding lessons, and the ever-evolving logistics of family life. Add in work events that creep past office hours, and it’s no wonder we all feel stretched thin. The last thing any of us need is another event… right?
Well—hold the phone.
Before you write off another thing on your calendar, let me share a few local events that have stood out for my family over the years—events like the Bluebell Walks at Bonny Brook Farm. They’ve been fun, educational, and—if we’re looking for another alliterative word—exhausting. (For the kids, that is. A total win.)
If you’re looking for ways to get your little ones outside for a couple of hours this spring, here are a few upcoming events I wholeheartedly recommend—with my Family-Friendly Rating and candid commentary included.
🌿 Open-Access Days at the Clifton Institute
Every Saturday, mid-January to mid-October
Location: Warrenton, VA (Membership required)
Clifton opens up its stunning 900-acre campus every Saturday for members to explore roughly 8 miles of trails. The annual membership donation is just $40, making it an accessible way to support this local nonprofit’s mission of outdoor education, habitat restoration, and ecological research.
Family-Friendly Rating: 3.5/5 stars
✅ Great for kids who love to run and roam
🚫 Trails are not stroller-friendly or easily accessible for those with mobility concerns
🚽 Port-a-potties only
📌 Pro Tip: Download and print the trail map beforehand—some trails are not yet marked.
Best for: Intermediate to seasoned outdoor adventurers.
Visit the Clifton Institute website for trail and event details.
📚 Oak Spring Garden Foundation’s Library Programs
Schedule varies—check the OSGF website for details
Locations: Fauquier and Loudoun County Public Libraries
This is one of my absolute favorite local organizations (you’ll hear me gush about them often). OSGF is a well-resourced, hidden gem that blends conservation, agriculture, and art in nature—all thanks to the legacy of Bunny Mellon. Their educational programming is stellar, and they offer scholarships for summer camps, free family events, and engaging seasonal activities.
In April, their Library Programs will teach children how to cultivate mushroom logs. In May, the focus shifts to natural plant dyes—both offered at public libraries in Bealeton, Marshall, Warrenton, and Middleburg.
Family-Friendly Rating: 5/5 stars
🎨 Engaging for young minds (as well as adults)
💡 Led by warm, enthusiastic educators
Best for: Curious kids and creative families. And educators—take note! OSGF offers in-school programs and field trips, with bookings already open for the 2025–2026 school year.
Visit the OSGF website for information about their youth programs.
🦋 Seasonal Nature Days with Bull Run Mountains Conservancy (BRMC)
Offered in May and October—see their site for dates
Location: Often held at Leopold’s Preserve, Broad Run, VA
BRMC’s Youth Outdoors program is all about inspiring the next generation of conservationists—while keeping things fun. Their Seasonal Nature Days require pre-registration and are typically held at the beautiful Leopold’s Preserve, a 380-acre wonderland of wetlands, wildflower meadows, and hardwood forest trails.
Executive Director Michael Kieffer brings an infectious passion to these events, connecting with kids and drawing them into nature’s magic.
Family-Friendly Rating: 4/5 stars
🌳 Gorgeous location with amenities
🌟 Great programming for kids ages 7–12
📅 Limited to specific age ranges and dates
Bonus: BRMC also offers homeschool programs and summer camps for ages 4–14.
Dig deeper into BRMC's Youth Outdoors Program.
Have a favorite local event that you think belongs on this list? I’d love to hear about it—please leave a comment or send me a message. And if you attend any of these outings, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram: @rooted_in_va_piedmont. Seeing families enjoy these places brings me so much joy.
‘Til next time,
Karissa
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