With Labor Day behind us and the weather starting to turn toward fall, it’s a great time to get outside in the fresh air. Add these outdoor activities to your weekend calendar.
Take an owl hike
Friday, Sept. 11, 8-9:30 p.m.
Who who who’s there? Join a roving naturalist at Potomac Overlook Regional Park and go on a hike in search of the Barred Owl, a common owl species in the Northern Virginia region. Your guide will teach you about owl adaptations, behavior and the animal’s role in our ecosystem before setting off to look for them in the wild. If you don’t find one in its natural habitat, no worries, you’ll also meet Smoke, Potomac Overlook’s resident Eastern Screech owl. Masks and appropriate footwear required. Ages 5 and up. // Potomac Overlook Regional Park: 2845 N. Marcey Road, Arlington; $8
Say Om at Carlyle House
Friday, Sept. 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Get in some relaxation with this series of yoga classes on Carlyle House’s Magnolia Terrace. The gentle flow yoga class will help you find some calm and balance with sun salutations, deep stretching and a relaxing meditation. Participants should bring water, a towel and yoga mat. // Carlyle House: 121 N. Fairfax St., Alexandria, $5, reservations required
Go kayaking at sunset
Friday, Sept. 12, 6-8:30 p.m.
Get a new view of nature with a sunset kayak tour. NOVA Parks Roving Naturalist, Matt Felperin, leads this popular tour as you search for wildlife like blue herons, osprey and bald eagles. Participants will receive a brief paddling tutorial before setting off. Ages 12+ // Pohick Bay Regional Park (meet at boat rental): 6501 Pohick Bay Drive, Lorton, $35
Run like a superhero
Sunday, Sept. 13, 6-11:30 a.m.
While many races have gone 5k this season, this race at Occoquan Regional Park Brickyard is live and in-person. Don your coolest cape, mask and pick a superpower for The Superhero 5k. The course winds along the Occoquan River for some great views while you get in some outdoor exercise. Families with strollers, along with pets, are welcome to join the race. // Pohick Bay Regional Park: 9751 Ox Road, Lorton, $20
Listen to music at Meadowlark
Sunday, Sept. 13, 3-5:30 p.m.
The flora and fauna at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens are always lovely, but set to music, it’s even better! Bring a blanket or chair and settle in with a picnic to take in the sounds of the Virginia Chamber Orchestra at Meadowlark’s Korean Bell Garden. After, stay for a stroll around the beautiful grounds. // Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna, free with park admission
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