Editor’s Note: Be aware that many events could be cancelled as precaution to the spread of COVID-19. Please check before heading to events.
Submit entertainment announcements at www.connectionnewspapers.com/Calendar/. The deadline is noon on Friday. Photos/artwork encouraged.
Ongoing
Peeps Diorama Contest. At Great Falls Library, 9830 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. The contest is designed around a book, scene or theme from literature. Entries must be submitted in a standard shoebox, using only Peeps as characters (for examples, Google "Peep Diorama") and turned in with an entry form to the Great Falls Library between April 13-18. Entry is free, and each entrant will receive a coupon for a free book at the Great Falls Library Book Sale. The three prize categories are age 11 and under, ages 12-17, and over 18. The rules are few: no food other than Peeps in the entry, which must be appropriate for public viewing, centered on a literary theme, using Peep figures only, in a standard shoebox, with entry form required. The community will vote on the winners while they are on display in the Library April 20-May 6. Winners will be announced at the Book Sale at noon on May 9.
Vienna Time Machine. At Freeman Store & Museum, 131 Church Street, NE, Vienna. Welcoming visitors to HVI’s newest exhibit is a U-2 pilot suit worn by Lt. Col. Sam Crouse. Other timepieces include iconic toys from the decade such as a GI Joe, Etch A Sketch, and Easy Bake oven. Posters commemorate some of the 1960s’ most pivotal films, including 2001: A Space Odyssey and Rosemary’s Baby. Other posters and images nod to the issues that rocked the 1960s: Vietnam, the Civil Rights Movement, and segregation/integration. HVI encourages visitors to add a personal – and local – touch to the exhibit by sharing their story. A message board accompanying the exhibit will feature anecdotes, historical moments, and personal stories about the decade. The Freeman Store & Museum is open from 12-4 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.
Hogwart’s Vacation Bible School Registration. At Holy Comforter Episcopal Church, 543 Beulah Road, NE, Vienna. The camp dates are June 22–26, 2020 for morning or afternoon sessions. Children 5 through 11 years old are invited to participate in this popular and unique summer camp experience which explores the Christian themes and lessons in the Harry Potter stories. Holy Comforter Episcopal Church in Vienna is magically converted into Hogwarts School where children attend "classes" taught by favorite professors including Professors McGonagall, Snape, Hooch, and Binns. Teenage prefects lead age level groups to their activities and all students share a closing snack in the Great Hall. This year’s theme will be based on book 2, Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets. Registration forms will be in the Church Office and online. More information: http://www.holycomforter.com/Children/Vacation_Bible_School/
The Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior women’s softball league, is looking for players. Any woman over the age of 40 is encouraged to join. All skill levels are welcome. They play on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in Vienna. For more information, visit the web site www.goldengirls.org
21st Lenten Devotional. Now thru April 12. At The Church of the Good Shepherd (United Methodist), 2351 Hunter Mill Road, Vienna. The church is publishing its 21st annual Devotions for Lent. The publication will be available on the church’s website at www.GoodShepherdVA.com, beginning on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 26, through Easter on April 12. The church also will post each day’s devotion on its Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/goodshepherdvienna. Printed copies will be mailed to neighborhoods surrounding the church, and a limited number of copies will be available at the church. Additionally, the church plans to hold weekly gatherings in members’ homes to discuss the devotionals. Free. Visit the website: www.GoodShepherdVA.com
Wednesday/March 18
McLean Newcomers and Neighbors Luncheon. 11:30 a.m. At Nostos Restaurant, 8100 Boone Boulevard, Vienna. State Department retiree Judy Rouse will discuss the issue of missing and abducted children. The cost is $40 per person. To attend, pay at https://squareup.com/market/mclean-newcomers-club. Prospective members are invited. No reservations will be accepted after Friday, March 13. Visit www.McLeanNewcomers.org.
March 19 to April 1
McLean Project for the Arts Spotlights Student Art Work. At 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. McLean Project for the Arts will celebrate Youth Arts Month by hosting two art shows featuring the work of Fairfax County Public School elementary, middle and high school students. The Langley Pyramid Youth Art Show opens Thursday, March 19, 2020 and runs through April 1, 2020. Langley Pyramid Youth Art Show Opening Exhibition Reception: Thursday, March 19, 4:30 – 6 p.m.; show runs through April 1, 2020. Visit mpaart.org.
March 20 to April 12
Cherry Blossom Festival Central. At Tysons Corner Center, Second Level outside of Nordstrom, McLean. The public is invited to stop in for free souvenirs, festival schedules and the latest information on activities throughout the region. On March 28, the Center will host its annual National Cherry Blossom Festival Day with a special event from 1–3 p.m. with craft demonstrations, free gifts, and more. Visit http://www.fxva.com/plan-your-trip/visitor-center; or call 703-752-9500.
Friday/March 20
An Evening of Cars & Art. 7 p.m. At The Car Barn in Great Falls. The Arts of Great Falls fundraiser where Don and Stacey Wood are hosting. While the venue's architecture is a highlight, guests will enjoy mingling with the antique cars even more. Don't miss this rare occasion when the community is invited inside the garage of Wood Motor Sports.
Young Adult Game Night. 7:15 p.m. At Breakout Games, 1073 W. Broad Street, Suite 201, Falls Church. For ages 18-30. Young Adult Game Night sponsored by the Young Adult Ministry at Lewinsville Presbyterian Church. Call the church office during normal business hours at 703-356-7200 or visit https://www.lewinsville.org/events/young-adult-game-night-2/
Saturday/March 21
Faith & Public Policy Breakfast. 8:30 a.m. At Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, 1724 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. They will begin with a light breakfast 8:30 a.m. and the presentation and discussion from 9 a.m. until about 10:30 a.m. in the Chapel. Speaker, Erin McKenney, Executive Director of Just Neighbors, an immigration legal services non-profit founded by members of the United Methodist Church, will provide an overview of their work and discuss hot immigration topics of the day, including overall policy, and issues like DACA, Travel Bans, Public Charge and more. Just Neighbors provides direct immigration legal services to low-income immigrants in Northern Virginia as well as some rural areas of the state. Call the Church Office during normal business hours at 703-356-7200 or visit https://www.lewinsville.org/events/faith-public-policy-breakfast-2/
Historic Marker Dedication. 10 a.m. At the Old Firehouse, 1440 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. The dedication of the newly installed Fairfax County Historic Marker, honoring McLean's first fire station, will take place. Refreshments will be served. Everyone is welcome. Contact Carole Herrick at 703-356-8223.
March 21-22
”Charlie & The Chocolate Factory.” Saturday, at 3 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m.
At the Traveling Players Studio at Tysons Corner Center on the first floor next to Lord & Taylor. Presented by the Traveling Players Ensemble. “Charlie & The Chocolate Factory” centers on Charlie Bucket, a young boy who loves chocolate. Mr. Willy Wonka, the most wondrous inventor in the world, is opening the gates of his amazing chocolate factory to five lucky children with golden tickets. And Charlie got the last golden ticket! But what he finds inside the factory is beyond even his wildest dreams. The 45-minute performance is a professionally directed and designed show with elementary and middle school actors who participated in Traveling Players winter classes. Tickets are $5 for children (5 and under), $10 for adults. Group rates are available. For more information, visit www.travelingplayers.org or email outreach@travelingplayers.org.
”A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 7 p.m.
At the Traveling Players Studio at Tysons Corner Center on the first floor next to Lord & Taylor. Presented by the Traveling Players Ensemble. A Midsummer Night’s Dream follows four young lovers who evade parental rule and city law by escaping into the forest, only to be transformed by mischievous fairies. Reality and illusion interchange in the woods, as do love and hate, clarity and confusion. As the tricks are reversed and the couples reunite, we delight in their wedding entertainment provided by a set of bumbling actors. The 90-minute performance is a professionally directed and designed show with high school actors who participated in Traveling Players winter classes. Tickets are $5 for children (5 and under), $10 for adults. Group rates are available. For more information, visit www.travelingplayers.org or email outreach@travelingplayers.org.
Photo Show. At Vienna Community Center, 120 Cherry Street, SE, Vienna. Area amateur and student photographers are invited to participate in the Photography Contest and Exhibit at the Vienna Community Center, at which submissions will be displayed 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 21, and noon-3 p.m. Sunday, March 22. Entry fee is $10 per person, with each participant allowed a maximum of three photo submissions total across seven categories: nature, pictorial, scenic, portraiture, architecture, animals, and photojournalism. Ribbons will be awarded in all categories, in both color and black and white divisions. Student photographers in grades 7-12 will be judged in a separate category. Participants must submit their photos in person with their application either from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, March 19, or noon-3:45 p.m. Friday, March 20. The application and physical requirements for the photos are listed at viennava.gov/photo.
Saturday/March 21, 28
Four Floor Tour. 10:30 a.m. At Colvin Run Mill, 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Explore the rarely seen second and third floors of Colvin Run Mill. Put on some comfy shoes, because you’ll be climbing steep stairs. The second and third floor areas are not ADA accessible, but alternative arrangements will be made for those who cannot climb stairs but wish to participate. The tours are designed for participants age 10 to adult. Cost is $10 per person. Reservations are suggested; walk-ins are welcome. Call 703-759-2771.
Sunday/March 22
Lynn Patron Retrospective. 2-4 p.m. At BedHeaders Home, 9895 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Lynn lived and worked part-time in Great Falls from 1995 through 2018 and much of her work reflects the local environment. She was an accomplished ‘modernist’ painter and sculptress having developed a very particular personal style focused on color and form. They will be exhibiting original oil paintings and Lynn’s giclée prints, both large and small scale works.
Monday/March 23
Ayr Hill Garden Club Meeting. 12:30 p.m. At Emmanuel Lutheran Church, 2589 Chain Bridge Road, Vienna. Betty Ann Galway, an NGC Flower Show Judge, will be giving a flower show design demonstration. Email emilielarson@rcn.com
Wednesday/March 25
Holy Happy Hour. 6:15 p.m. At Lewinsville Presbyterian Church, 1724 Chain Bridge Road, McLean. Featuring Seán Heely, U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion, Lisa Greenfield, and Hector Munk for March’s Holy Happy Hour. This Celtic music concert will be followed by wine, cheese, and fellowship in St. Andrews Hall. Call the Church Office during normal business hours at 703-356-7200 or visit https://www.lewinsville.org/events/holy-happy-hour/
March 26 thru April 19
”A New Brain.” Thursdays at 7:30 p.m., Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. At 1st Stage in Tysons, 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons Corner. From author William Finn and James Lapine comes an energetic, sardonic, and comical musical, “A New Brain.” Gordon collapses into his lunch and awakes in the hospital, surrounded by his nearest and dearest. When what was thought to be a life-threatening neurological disorder turns out to be treatable, Gordon is grateful for a second chance to create his own art. Tickets: $42 general admission, $39 seniors (65+), $15 students and military. Purchase online at www.1ststage.org or 703-854-1856.
Friday/March 27
St. Salvator’s Chapel Choir. 7:30-9 p.m. At St. Luke Catholic Church, 7001 Georgetown Pike, McLean. Music in McLean presents St. Salvator's Chapel Choir of the University of St Andrews, Scotland, conducted by Claire Innes-Hopkins. Freewill offerings will be accepted, reception to follow. Visit MusicInMcLean.org.
Crimson Live Comedy Show. 8 p.m. At The State Theatre, 220 North Washington Street, Falls Church. The Northern Virginia Alumnae Chapter (NoVAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., will host its Inaugural Crimson Live Comedy Show. Crimson Live Comedy Show is hosted by Media Personality Kyle On The Mic and will feature comedians Tiana Douglas, Huggy Lowdown and Chris Paul from the Tom Joyner Morning Show. Proceeds will be donated to NoVAC's scholarship fund, which provides tuition assistance to deserving students in Northern Virginia. Tickets are $60 - $70. Visit www.dstnovac.org and www.nvdecs.org.
Saturday/March 28
Free Black History Concert. 3 p.m. At Historic Pleasant Grove Church, 8641 Lewinsville Road, McLean. Featuring the Washington Revels Jubilee Voices in a free concert celebrating African American musical traditions. This event will take place in a quaint 1895 church setting, now an historic site. Visit www.HistoricPleasantGrove.org.
Sunday/March 29
Winterfest Hamfest. At NVCC College, Wakefield Chapel Road, Annandale. Members of the Vienna Wireless Society will host their 44th annual “Winterfest” hamfest or amateur radio show along with the 2020 Virginia Section Convention. This event is open to the public. The Convention also features an outdoor “flea market” starting at 6 a.m., indoor vendor sales and radio demonstrations starting at 8 a.m., and conference and convention seminars and events beginning at 9 a.m. Cost of admission is $10 and parking is free. Visit the website: www.viennawirelss.net.
Saturday/March 30
Shakespeare’s’ “Imogen (Cymbeline).” 2 p.m. At The Alden Theater, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Princess Imogen is catapulted onto an epic journey when her father, King Cymbeline, banishes her soulmate. Featuring a band of tough-but-loveable woodsmen, an evil queen, noble battles and unexpected plot twists, this late Shakespearean play enchants audiences with a story about a powerful princess who will do anything for love. Doors open and live music starts at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $40/$30 MCC tax district residents. Visit www.aldentheatre.org.
Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” 7:30 p.m. At The Alden Theater, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. In “A Midsummer Night's Dream,” Shakespeare casts a theatrical spell powerful enough to make audiences of all ages believe in anything. This mischievous comedy of lovers, heroes, fairies and rude mechanicals is his tribute to humankind's power of imagination and reveals that the “course of true love” can alter with just one touch of magic. Doors open and live music starts at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $40/$30 MCC tax district residents. Visit www.aldentheatre.org.
Sunday/March 31
Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath.” 2 p.m. At The Alden Theater, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. An Oklahoma drought during the Great Depression forces the Joad family to flee their home for the promise of a new life in California. Will hope prevail through the hardships and heartbreak? Steinbeck’s classic novel comes to life in this Tony Award-winning stage adaptation. Doors open and live music starts at 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $40/$30 MCC tax district residents
Saturday/April 18
32nd Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup. 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Hosted by the Alice Ferguson Foundation, 2001 Bryan Point Rd, Accokeek. The Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup has become a catalyst for progress that ignites people’s interest and passion for the environment and community action. The largest regional event of its kind, the Cleanup provides a transforming experience that engages residents and community leaders and generates momentum for change.The Potomac River Watershed Cleanup has grown from a small shoreline cleanup at Piscataway National Park to a watershed wide network. What started as a few cleanup events along the Potomac River is now a regional event spanning Maryland, Virginia, the District of Columbia, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. If you can't make this date or location check out PotomacCleanup.org to find another cleanup near you.
Saturday/April 18
NVMR Model Train Open House. 1-5 p.m. At Vienna Historic Train Station, 231 Dominion Road, NE, Vienna. Stop by the Historic Vienna Train Station where you can see and hear HO scale model trolleys and trains including Thomas and some of his friends on display and in operation. Great family fun and activity for the young and young-at-heart. The museum and model train layout was included on Fox 5 “zip trip” must see in Vienna. Hosted by the Northern Virginia Model Railroaders. Free. Visit the website: www.nvmr.org.
Saturday/April 25
Order Spring Native Plants. 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. At Riverbend Park, 8700 Potomac Hills Street, Great Falls. Do something good for yourself and the environment. Put your shopping list together for the annual Native Plant Sale sponsored by the Friends of Riverbend Park (FORB). Choose from native plants, ferns and shrubs that are suited for the climate in Fairfax County and benefit local wildlife. Proceeds from the sale benefit Riverbend Park, too. You can pre-order online through March 21, 2020, and the plants will be available for pickup at the park’s Outdoor Classroom on Friday, April 24, the day before the sale for the general public. Go to FORB’s website (http://www.forb.wildapricot.org/Native-Plant-Sale) for all the details. The public sale takes place on Saturday, April 25 from 8 to 11 a.m. Call 703-759-9018.
Ongoing
Drop-in Mah Jongg. Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m.-noon at McLean Community Center, 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean. Players should have a basic understanding of the rules and should bring their current American MJ League card. For McLean District residents. Email emvarner@verizon.net for more.
Camp Grow Registration Open. Camp Grow at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, in Vienna, invites children to explore nature through hands-on activities, gardening, discovery walks, crafts, music, storytelling, and animal programs. Camp Grow is designed to engage, challenge, educate and encourage a sense of community. Camp Grow values and encourages inclusion of all campers in every activity. Visit www.novaparks.com/things-to-do/camps/ for more.
The Golden Girls of Northern Virginia, a senior women’s softball league, is looking for players. Any woman over the age of 40 is encouraged to join. All skill levels are welcome. Games are on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings in Vienna, April-October. Other activities during the year. Visit www.goldengirls.org.
Free Tai Chi. Through Oct. 26, Saturdays, 7:55-9 a.m., meet on the outdoor basketball court located directly behind the Dolley Madison Public Library, 1244 Oak Ridge Ave., McLean Central Park, McLean. Introduction and beginners’ practice. All are welcome. Moves indoors for fall and winter. Call 703-759-9141 or visit www.FreeTaiChi.org for more.
Trivia Night. Tuesdays, 7 p.m. at Lost Dog Cafe - McLean, 1690 Anderson Road, McLean. Trivia featuring multiple winners and fun door prizes. Free to play. Visit www.facebook.com/EarthTriviaDc/ for more.
The Freeman Store & Museum Wednesday through Sunday noon-4 p.m. 131 Church St. NE, Vienna. The Freeman Store & Museum is dedicated to Preserving and promoting Vienna’s heritage through the identification, preservation, and interpretation of history significant places, events, and persons. Historicviennainc.org
Bingo Night. Sundays. 4 p.m. Flame Room, Vienna Volunteer Fire Department, 400 Center St. S, Vienna. $10. www.vvfd.org/bingo.html.
Gentle Yoga. Thursdays, 6:30 p.m. Emmaus United Church of Christ, 900 E Maple Ave. E., Vienna. Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Fairfax, 2709 Hunter Mill Road, Oakton. Gentle Kundalini Yoga, one free introductory session, senior discounts. Increase flexibility, improve breathing and health, reduce stress. Ravi Kaur has 15 years experience teaching yoga. $15 per session. Visit www.edimprovement.org or call 571-213-3192.
Colvin Run Mill open 11-4 p.m. daily, closed Tuesday. 10017 Colvin Run Road, Great Falls. Fairfax County's operational 19th century water powered gristmill, offers recreational and educational activities for all ages through daily tours, school programs and special events. Fees: $7/adult, $6 students 16+ with ID, $5 children & seniors. Admission to park is free except for some special events.