While the weather is going to be chilly this week, there are plenty of outdoor and virtual events that will keep you entertained. Whether you want to get outdoors and explore nature or take a healthy cooking class, here are five parks and recreation events to enjoy this weekend.
Virtual Series: Snacks for Snakes! Live Snake Feeding
Thursday, 6-7 p.m.
While snakes can be scary to some, they play a big part of the ecosystem. This virtual program will teach viewers about the benefits of these serpents and give them an up-close view of feeding time through Zoom. // $7
Self-Guided Hikes and Activities
Friday-Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Spend the weekend in the woods by planning your own trip into the forest. Mason Neck State park offers six different self-guided tours to tour the trails on your own. Brochures and other activities will be available for pick up at the kiosks or visitor center. // Mason Neck State Park: 7301 High Point Road, Lorton; free
Plant Base Cooking Zoodle Mani
Saturday, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Add a healthy and delicious recipe to your dinner lineup with the help of this cooking class. This cooking series will teach participants the power of plant-based nutrition, with a focus on making zucchini noodles this week. Participants must register by Wednesday to participate. // Marshall Community Center: 4133-A Rectortown Road, Marshall; $40
Owl Campfire and Hike
Saturday, 4 p.m.
Get toasty by the fire for an afternoon of stories and hiking. Join a naturalist for stories about owls, then head on a hike through the park to search for evidence of the bird of prey. All attendees must register. // Hidden Pond Nature Center: 8511 Greeley Blvd., Springfield; $10
Winter Stream Life
Sunday, 1 p.m.
Take a trip to the stream to learn about all of its small critters. Participants will join a naturalist to learn about the different macroinvertebrates that are active in winter streams. Attendees will be able to help pick, sort and identify the different critters in the water. // Ellanor C. Lawrence Park: 5040 Walney Road, Chantilly; $8
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