Send announcements or events, which are open to the public at no or minimal cost, to The Loudoun Connection, 7913 Westpark Drive, McLean, VA 22102 or e-mail <a href="mailto:loudoun@connectionnewspapers.com">loudoun@connectionnewspapers.com</a>. Deadline is Friday, two weeks before the event. Photos/artwork encouraged. For more information, call 703-917-6454.
<cal1>Friday/Sept. 5
<cal2>SENIOR COOKOUT. 4-6:30 p.m., The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place. "Goin' to the Drive-In," end-of-summer celebration; includes burgers, malts and shakes and "white bucks," as well as classic cars show and disc jockey Sky Dantinne; wear high-school colors. Cost: $5 for members in advance, $7 for nonmembers and at door. Call 703-430-2397.
TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features Restless Street Band. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For high schoolers.
NEW EXHIBIT RECEPTION. 6-8 p.m., Loudoun Museum, 16 Loudoun St., S.W., Leesburg. The Loudoun Museum celebrates the 250th anniversary of the founding of Leesburg in 1758 with its new exhibition, Leesburg: Crossroads of Tradition and Transition. Explore the history of Leesburg through a selection objects, photographs, postcards and maps. Call 703-777-7427.
LOUDOUN READS. 6-7 p.m., in the Leesburg Town Rose Garden. Published authors, as well as community leaders and educators, will read from some of their favorite literary selections. The event produced by the Loudoun Literacy Council and sponsored by Verizon Foundation, commemorates International Literacy Day. Contact Tanya Bosse, Loudoun Literacy Council, 703-777-2205, Ext. 103 or tbosse@loudounliteracy.org.
FROM SWANN'S CASTLE to Governor's Mansion: Exploring an Old Southern Estate. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Learn Morven Park's history from 19th century plantation to early 20th century hunt country estate and working farm. Guided tours include exhibits, carriage collection, Confederate huts and outdoor walk around property. Cost: adults $5, children $1. Meet at Coach House Visitors Center. Call 703-777-6034.
<cal1>Saturday/Sept. 6
<cal2>AIRPLANE PULL. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Dulles International Airport. Join Special Olympics Virginia for the 16th Annual Dulles Day Family Festival and Plane Pull. Teams of 20 will play tug-of-war with a cargo jet to see who can pull the aircraft 12 feet the fastest. Includes Kids Bus Pull, live music, car show, military and civilian aircraft displays, business exhibits and children's games and entertainment. Teams must raise a minimum of $1,000 to participate in the plane pull; cost for the children's bus pull is $10. Visit www.planepull.com or call 703-359-4301.
LOUDOUNPALOOSA. Noon-11 p.m., Belmont Country Club, 43675 Russell Branch Parkway, Ashburn. Loudoun Summer Music Fest's end of summer barbecue. Featuring food from Original Steakhouse, Famous Dave's, Buffalo Wing Factory and Carolina Brothers BBQ and performances from Dreamscapes Project, Lloyd Dobbler Effect, No Second Troy, Lionize, Justin Trawick, Getaway Car, Kelly Bell Band, Blackjacks, The Speaks and "Best of" Tri-State All Stars. Cost: general admission advance $15, at the door $20. Visit liveatbelmont.com for tentative playing schedule.
CIVIL WAR SOLDIER'S LIFE. 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. All ages. Civil War Re-enactors and archeological artifacts bring the soldier's war to life. "Enlist" at the muster station; explore weapons, military equipment, clothing, and more. Cost: $5 supply fee for children 5 years and up for materials handed out at the stations. An adult must accompany children. No registration required. Free event. Call 571-258-3700.
STORY TIME MATINEE. 2 p.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Stories, songs, a video storybook and a craft. Ages 3-6. Call 703-737-8100.
PAINTING IN THE AFTERNOON. 2 p.m., Rust @ Catoctin Library, 34D Catoctin Circle, Leesburg. Local painter, Trisha Adams, will answer questions and explain her work while she paints a still life in the library. Recommended for adults.
FROM SWANN'S CASTLE to Governor's Mansion: Exploring an Old Southern Estate. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. See Sept. 5 item for details.
SOUNDS OF SUMMER. 6-9:30 p.m., gate opens at 5 p.m., Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg. Features The Jack Diamond and Jim Steed Band. Cost: $15 at the gate, $10 in advance, free for children 6 and under. Call 703-771-7100 or visit www.tarara.com.
BOOK SWAP. 10 a.m.-noon, Claude Moore Community Center, 46111 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling. All ages. Trade your books, books on tape or compact discs, music CDs and VHS or DVD movies. Books/magazines in large print needed. Call 571-258-3500.
EXPLORE NATURE. 9-10:30 a.m., Rust Nature Sanctuary, 802 Children's Center Road, Leesburg. Adults and older children are invited to explore nature in late summer for free. Visit www.audubonnaturalist.org.
FLEA MARKET. 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Claude Moore Community Center, 46111 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling. Buy and sell at an outdoor flea market. Cost: $10 per space to sell, preregistration required. Call 571-258-3500.
<cal1>Sunday/Sept. 7
<cal2>MONTHLY BREAKFAST. 8 a.m.-noon, Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, 20688 Ashburn Road. Breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, gravy and biscuits, hash browns, coffee and juices. Features monthly themes and Kids Activity Corner; apparatus bay area is open to children of all ages. Cost: adults $6, ages 3-8 $4, under 3 free and seniors $5. Call 703-729-0006.
DOG DAYS. Noon-4 p.m., Algonkian Regional Park, Sterling. Dogs and their owners are invited to swim. Cost: $5 per dog. Dog owners must fill out a liability waiver and the dog must have a current license and rabies vaccination. Visit www.nvrpa.org.
TRAVEL THROUGH TIME in the Winmill Carriage Collection. 1-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Take a guided tour through a collection of 19th century horse-drawn vehicles, including coaches, sleighs, carts, buggies and a hearse from the 1800s. Cost: adults $5, children $1. Meet at Coach House Visitor Center. Visit www.morvenpark.org or call 703-777-6034.
<cal1>Monday/Sept. 8
<cal2>GOLF CLASSIC. The 2008 National Capital Golf Classic, at the Golf Club at Lansdowne, 44050 Woodbridge Parkway, Lansdowne. Proceeds benefit American Cancer Society's to fight prostate cancer and supports research programs in the National Capital Region. For tickets or corporate sponsorship opportunities, contact Beth Sartwelle at 202-483-2600 or beth.sartwelle@cancer.org. Single-player sponsorship begins at $1,750. Visit www.NationalCapitalGolfClassic.com.
DAZZLING DRAGONFLIES. 9:30-11 a.m. or 12:30-2 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. Ages 3-6. Can you "fly" forwards, backwards and hover like dragonflies do? Look through a dragonfly's "eye" and make a dragonfly to take home. Cost: $10.50 per child. Call 571-258-3700.
GOTTA CATCH 'EM ALL … Pokemon. 4 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling. Games and crafts. Bring Pokemon cards to trade. Ages 6-11 with adult. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-430-9500.
STORY TIME WITH JABBERU. 11 a.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Foreign language story time, expose children to other languages through interactive stories and songs. Ages 3 and up. Day's selection: Spanish language. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-737-8100.
FROM SWANN'S CASTLE to Governor's Mansion: Exploring an Old Southern Estate. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. See Sept. 5 item for details.
WOOLGATHERING. 6 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling. Bring own stitching project and gather to chat with friends. Ages 12 and up. Call 703-430-9500.
<cal1>Tuesday/Sept. 9
<cal2>MAD SCIENTISTS' CLUB. 7 p.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Explore scientific topics through recreational and informational activities. Ages 8-11. September: Run for Your Lives. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-737-8100.
POTLUCK SOCIAL. 5 p.m., Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling. Share favorite home-cooked meals, side dishes and deserts. All seniors invited. Bring a dish to share and a small gift bag to give away as a bingo prize. Call 703-430-2397.
<cal1>Wednesday/Sept. 10
<cal2>EXPLORE NATURE. 10-11:30 a.m., Rust Nature Sanctuary, 802 Children's Center Road, Leesburg. Adults and older children are invited to explore the sanctuary's meadows, forests and wetlands for free. Visit www.audubonnaturalist.org.
<cal1>Thursday/Sept. 11
<cal2>CASINO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Charles Town, W.Va. Includes slots and simulcast horse racing; lunch on own. Cost: $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers, includes transportation and $5 cash back, subject to change. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
DAZZLING DRAGONFLIES. 9:30-11 a.m. or 12:30-2 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. Ages 3-6. Can you "fly" forwards, backwards and hover like dragonflies do? Look through a dragonfly's "eye" and make a dragonfly to take home. Cost: $10.50 per child. Call 571-258-3700.
FROGSHACKLE OPEN HOUSE. 2:30-3:30 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. All ages. Discover a treasure trove of objects from nature. No registration is required.
Free event. Call 571-258-3700.
9-11 OBSERVANCE. 7 p.m., Town Green, 25 West Market St., Leesburg. The ceremony includes messages from Kristen Umstattd, mayor of Leesburg, and Joseph Price, chief of police. In addition, the town's Freedom Memorial at Freedom Park, 101 Granada Circle, will be open, from 7:30 a.m.-9 p.m., for those wishing to pay their respects individually. Both events are free, open to the public and will be held rain or shine. Contact the Town of Leesburg's Parks and Recreation Department, 703-777-1368.
<cal1>Friday/Sept. 12
<cal2>MUSEUMS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Bowie, Md., to tour the Radio and Television and the 1745 Georgian-style Belair Mansion museums; lunch on own at food court or bring bag lunch. Cost: $11 for members, $13 for nonmembers, includes transportation with free tours, donations at sites optional. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
BROADLANDS LIVE. 5:30-9:30 p.m., Hillside Park at the Old Stone House, 42935 Waxpool Road. Features Bad Luck, 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Scott's New Band, 7-9:30 p.m. Visit www.broadlandshoa.org.
TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features gamer night. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For middle schoolers.
FROM SWANN'S CASTLE to Governor's Mansion: Exploring an Old Southern Estate. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Learn Morven Park's history from 19th century plantation to early 20th century hunt country estate and working farm. Guided tours include exhibits, carriage collection, Confederate huts and outdoor walk around property. Cost: adults $5, children $1. Meet at Coach House Visitors Center. Call 703-777-6034.
TODDLER ONE & TWO. 11 a.m., Rust@Catoctin Library, 34D Catoctin Circle, Leesburg. Stories, rhymes and movement for toddlers on the go. Ages 12-24 months with parent/caregiver. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov. or phone 703-777-0323.
<cal1>Saturday/Sept. 13
<cal2>FLICKS IN THE STICKS. 8:15 p.m., at the Nature Center, Broadlands. Bring a picnic dinner; free popcorn and drinks available. Movies begin shortly after sundown, time listed is an estimate. For movie details visit www.broadlandshoa.org. Rated PG, 92 minutes.
1918: A LIVING HISTORY PROGRAM on World War I and The Home Front. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Travel back in time to life during the Great War as experienced by World War I-era Virginia Gov. and Mrs. Westmoreland Davis, as portrayed by living history interpreters. Cost: $5 adults, $1 children 6-12, free for children under 6. Call 703-777-6034 or visit http://www.morvenpark.org.
SOUNDS OF SUMMER. 6-9:30 p.m., gate opens at 5 p.m., Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg. Features Melanie Mason. Cost: $15 at the gate, $10 in advance, free for children 6 and under. Call 703-771-7100 or visit www.tarara.com.
PADDLE AND WINE TOUR. 2-9:30 p.m., Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg. Go on a guided canoe trip on the Potomac River followed by a private wine tasting and the winery's Sounds of Summer evening concert. Cost: $95 per person, $85 per person under 21. Visit www.tarara.com.
BIRDING BANSHEE. 8 a.m., Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, located between The Woods Road and Goose Creek. Join the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and the Friends of Banshee Reeks at the monthly bird walk. Bring binoculars. Contact Joe Coleman at 540-554-2542 or jcoleman@loudounwildlife.org.
BEADED JEWELRY MAKING. 2 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling. Make beaded jewelry for gifts or to wear. Ages 12-18. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-430-9500.
TEENS HAVE TALENT! 2 p.m., Rust Library, at Loudoun County Extension Office Program Room, 30B Catoctin Circle, Leesburg. Show off your talent at Rust Library's Talent Show. Ages 12-18.
MUSICAL PERFORMANCE. 2 p.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. David LaFleur, solo acoustic roots music. All ages.
<cal1>Sunday/Sept. 14
<cal2>TRAVEL THROUGH TIME in the Winmill Carriage Collection. 1-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Take a guided tour through a collection of 19th century horse-drawn vehicles, including coaches, sleighs, carts, buggies and a hearse from the 1800s. Cost: adults $5, children $1. Meet at Coach House Visitor Center. Visit www.morvenpark.org or call 703-777-6034.
<cal1>Monday/Sept. 15
<cal2>FROM SWANN'S CASTLE to Governor's Mansion: Exploring an Old Southern Estate. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. See the Sept. 12 item for details.
<cal1>Wednesday/Sept. 17
<cal2>SENIOR MOVIES. 1:30 p.m., Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling. See "Made of Honor," rated PG-13, running time 101 minutes. Cost: $2 includes popcorn and soda. Call 703-430-2397.
NATURE WALK. 9 -11 a.m, Algonkian Park, Cascades Parkway, Sterling. Join the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy on a mid-week, general nature walk at the onset of fall migration. Free. Meet at the parking lot by the pool. Contact Mary Ann Good at 540-338-1901, evenings.
<cal1>Friday/Sept. 19
<cal2>TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features gamer night. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For high schoolers.
<cal1>Saturday/Sept. 20
<cal2>SENIOR OLYMPICS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Arlington for the opening ceremony and track-and-field events of the Northern Virginia Senior Olympics; bring bag lunch. Cost: $6 for members, $8 for nonmembers, includes transportation and free admission. Moderate walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
FIGHTING & FROLICKING: The Civil War Comes to Morven Park. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; musket firing and military drilling at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Experience life for Confederate soldiers through this living history program. Historical interpreters portray soldiers who lived at Morven Park following the nearby Battle at Ball's Bluff. Includes a visit to log huts, authentic objects found on the property, a chance to talk to soldiers and demonstrations. Cost: $5 per person, $1 per child 6-12, free for children under 6. Call 703-777-6034 or visit http://www.morvenpark.org.
PLANT EXCHANGE. 1-1:30 p.m., Claude Moore Community Center, 46111 Loudoun Park Lane, Sterling. Ages 16 and up. Bring extra perennial divisions, herbs, houseplants, shrubs, etc. to trade. Call 571-258-3500.
READER'S THEATRE. 2 p.m., Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Sterling. A Reader's Theatre presentation of the Loudoun County Public Library One Book-One Community selection, "Nothing But the Truth" with professional actors Tim Jons, Stokes Tomlin and Carolyn Christensen. Call 703-444-3228.
PADDLE AND WINE TOUR. 10:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg. Go on a guided 4.5- to 7-mile canoe trip on the Potomac or Shenandoah River followed by a private wine and cheese tasting with a tour of the wine making cave. Cost: $95 per person, $85 per person under 21. Visit www.tarara.com.
BIRD WALKS. 8-9 a.m., Rust Nature Sanctuary, 802 Children's Center Road, Leesburg. Adults and older children are invited to learn about bird watching for free. Visit www.audubonnaturalist.org.
<cal1>Sunday/Sept. 21
<cal2>READER'S THEATRE. 2:30 p.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. A Reader's Theatre presentation of the Loudoun County Public Library One Book-One Community selection, "Nothing But the Truth" with professional actors Tim Jons, Stokes Tomlin and Carolyn Christensen. Call 703-737-8100.
SUNDAY IN THE PRESERVE. 1 p.m., Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve, located between The Woods Road and Goose Creek. Join the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy and the Friends of Banshee Reeks for a free informal, family walk around the preserve. Contact the Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve at 703-669-0316.
<cal1>Monday/Sept. 22
<cal2>STORY TIME WITH JABBERU. 11 a.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Foreign language story time, expose children to other languages through interactive stories and songs. Ages 3 and up. Day's selection: French language. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-737-8100.
READER'S THEATRE. 7 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St, Sterling. A Reader's Theatre presentation of the Loudoun County Public Library One Book-One Community selection, "Nothing But the Truth" with professional actors Tim Jons, Stokes Tomlin and Carolyn Christensen. Call 703-430-9500.
<cal1>Wednesday/Sept. 24
<cal2>CASINO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Charles Town, W.Va. Includes slots and simulcast horse racing; lunch on own. Cost: $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers, includes transportation and $5 cash back, subject to change. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
PANCAKE BREAKFAST. 9-10:30 a.m., Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling. Includes buttermilk pancakes, sausage or bacon, coffee and juice. Open to the public. Cost: $3. Call 703-430-2307.
<cal1>Friday/Sept. 26
<cal2>FURRY FRIDAY. 5-7 p.m., Sterling Community Center, 20 Enterprise St., Sterling. Once a month, animals from the Loudoun County Animal Shelter will be at the Sterling Community. Bring the whole family for a real "happy hour" with animals looking for new homes. Visit www.loudoun.gov/animals.
TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features Hip-Hop Groove. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For middle schoolers.
TODDLER ONE & TWO. 11 a.m., Rust@Catoctin Library, 34D Catoctin Circle, Leesburg. Stories, rhymes and movement for toddlers on the go. Ages 12-24 months with parent/caregiver. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov. or phone 703-777-0323.
<cal1>Saturday/Sept. 27
<cal2>LURE OF LOUDOUN GALA. 6:30 p.m., River Creek Club, 43800 Olympic Blvd., Leesburg. The Loudoun Museum is hosting the second Lure of Loudoun Gala. A cocktail reception kicks off the night, followed by dinner and dancing. Individual tickets are $200 and sponsor opportunities range from $1,000-$10,000. For tickets, call the Museum at 703-777-7427 or e-mail bfriedmann@loudounmuseum.org.
1918: A LIVING HISTORY PROGRAM on World War I and The Home Front. 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Morven Park, 17263 Southern Planter Lane, Leesburg. Travel back in time to life during the Great War as experienced by World War I-era Virginia Gov. and Mrs. Westmoreland Davis, as portrayed by living history interpreters. Cost: $5 adults, $1 children 6-12, free for children under 6. Call 703-777-6034 or visit http://www.morvenpark.org.
AUTUMN ARTS & Crafts Festival. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. Includes vendors, tours of the Lanesville House, old-time craft demonstrations, live music and children's crafts. Free. Call 571-258-3700 or visit http://www.loudoun.gov/claudemoorepark.
PHOTOGRAPHY EXPO. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. Learn photographic techniques from a panel of speakers, photograph birds of prey provided by the Raptor Conservancy of Virginia, view a special category of nature photographs taken in Loudoun County parks and much more. Entry forms and complete rules are available online. Admission free; $25 fee for photographing birds of prey. Call 703-303-2650 or visit http://www.loudoun.gov/claudemoorepark.
MUSEUM DAY. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Heritage Farm Museum, 21668 Heritage Farm Lane, Sterling. Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day, present the museum day admission card to receive two free general admission passes at participating museum day locations. The admission card is available in the September 2008 issue of Smithsonian magazine or can be downloaded from www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday. Call 571-258-3800.
SOUNDS OF SUMMER. 6-9:30 p.m., gate opens at 5 p.m., Tarara Winery, 13648 Tarara Lane, Leesburg. Features Junkyard Saints. Cost: $15 at the gate, $10 in advance, free for children 6 and under. Call 703-771-7100 or visit www.tarara.com.
<cal1>Sunday/Sept. 28
<cal2>PHOTOGRAPHY EXPO. Noon-5 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. See the Sept. 27 item for details.
AUTUMN ARTS & Crafts Festival. Noon.-5 p.m., Claude Moore Park, 21544 Old Vestal's Gap Road, Sterling. See Sept. 27 item for details.
<cal1>Monday/Sept. 29
<cal2>WOOLGATHERING. 6 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling. Bring own stitching project and gather to chat with friends. Ages 12 and up. Call 703-430-9500.
<cal1>Friday/Oct. 3
<cal2>TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features Hip-Hop Groove. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For high schoolers.
MUSEUMS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., to tour the Bureau of Printing and Engraving and Holocaust Museum; lunch on own or bring bag lunch. Cost: $9 for members, $11 for nonmembers, includes transportation with free admission/tours. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Saturday/Oct. 4
<cal2>FAMILY BIRD WALK. 9-11 a.m., Bles Park, end of Riverside Parkway in University Center. Join the Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy at for a family bird walk. Bring binoculars. Contact Andy Rabin at stylurus@gmail.com or 703-723-6926.
<cal1>Sunday/Oct. 5
<cal2>MONTHLY BREAKFAST. 8 a.m.-noon, Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, 20688 Ashburn Road. Breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, gravy and biscuits, hash browns, coffee and juices. Features monthly themes and Kids Activity Corner; apparatus bay area is open to children of all ages. Cost: adults $6, ages 3-8 $4, under 3 free and seniors $5. Call 703-729-0006.
<cal1>Monday/Oct. 6
<cal2>STORY TIME WITH JABBERU. 11 a.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Foreign language story time, expose children to other languages through interactive stories and songs. Ages 3 and up. Day's selection: Chinese language. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-737-8100.
WOOLGATHERING. 6 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling. Bring own stitching project and gather to chat with friends. Ages 12 and up. Call 703-430-9500.
SENIORS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., to tour the Lincoln Cottage and Kennedy Center; lunch on own. Cost: $19 for members, $21 for nonmembers, includes transportation and both tours. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Thursday/Oct. 9
<cal2>CASINO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Charles Town, W.Va. Includes slots and simulcast horse racing; lunch on own. Cost: $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers, includes transportation and $5 cash back, subject to change. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Friday/Oct. 10
<cal2>TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features art night. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For middle schoolers.
<cal1>Saturday/Oct. 11
<cal2>COLUMBUS DAY PARADE. 10 a.m., Sterling Park. 27th annual Columbus Day parade staged by the Good Samaritan Council 6175, Knights of Columbus. Participation open the community including bike riders, marching bands or other musical groups, organizations, antique cars, military units, youth groups, floats, athletic leagues and school groups. Parade begins at Park View High School and travels down Laurel Avenue to Sterling Boulevard to Holly Avenue and ends at the Knights of Columbus Barn. Includes refreshments for participants at the barn. Contact Steve Rogers, 571-333-7787 or Don Harris, 703-729-3340.
FALL FESTIVAL. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Waterford. Joshua's Hands' annual festival. Includes food, children's crafts, games, pony rides, lunch and auction. Free, auction benefits the nonprofit Joshua's Hands. Visit www.JoshuasHands.org or call 540-540-7827.
<cal1>Tuesday/Oct. 14
<cal2>MAD SCIENTISTS' CLUB. 7 p.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Explore scientific topics through recreational and informational activities. Ages 8-11. October: It's a Zoo in Here. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-737-8100.
<cal1>Wednesday/Oct. 15
<cal2>GOLF FUND-RAISER. 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m., at Raspberry Falls Golf & Hunt Club, 41601 Raspberry Drive, Leesburg. The Loudoun Convention and Visitors Association Foundation is hosting a charity auction and golf classic fund-raiser. Day includes golf tourney and clinic, silent and live auction and a dinner. Call Wendy Ferrigno at 703-771-2170, Ext. 24 or visit www.LCVAFoundation.org to participate or sponsor.
SENIORS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Shenandoah National Park, to view the Skyline Drive autumn colors; lunch on own at Elkwallow Wayside or bring bag lunch. Cost: $10 for members, $12 for nonmembers, includes transportation. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Thursday/Oct. 16
<cal2>SENIORS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., to tour the Lincoln Cottage and Kennedy Center; lunch on own. Cost: $19 for members, $21 for nonmembers, includes transportation and both tours. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Friday/Oct. 17
<cal2>TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features art night. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For high schoolers.
<cal1>Saturday/Oct. 18
<cal2>COURT AND MARKET DAYS. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Downtown Leesburg. Take a step back in time and embrace and celebrate Leesburg history at this annual event. Stroll the streets of historic downtown Leesburg and visit the many traders and demonstrators on hand or watch the court case re-enactments. Includes children's activities, food vendors and live entertainment. Contact Ida Lee Park Recreation Center at 703-777-1368.
FALL FARM COLOR TOUR. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., locations countywide. Self-guided tour of vineyards, orchards, pick-your-own farms and the Heritage Farm Museum. Sponsored by the Department of Economic Development, visit the Web site, www.LoudounFarms.org, to download a brochure of participating locations and a map.
MUSEUM TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., to tour the Newseum; lunch on own. Cost: $26 for members, $28 for nonmembers, includes transportation and admission. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Sunday/Oct. 19
<cal2>FALL FARM COLOR TOUR. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., locations countywide. See Oct. 18 item for details.
<cal1>Monday/Oct. 20
<cal2>READER'S THEATRE. 4 p.m., Rust Library, 30 B Catoctin Circle, Leesburg. A Reader's Theatre presentation of the Loudoun County Public Library One Book-One Community selection, "Nothing But the Truth" with professional actors Tim Jons, Stokes Tomlin and Carolyn Christensen.
<cal1>Wednesday/Oct. 22
<cal2>CASINO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Charles Town, W.Va. Includes slots and simulcast horse racing; lunch on own. Cost: $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers, includes transportation and $5 cash back, subject to change. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Friday/Oct. 24
<cal2>FURRY FRIDAY. 5-7 p.m., Sterling Community Center, 20 Enterprise St., Sterling. Once a month, animals from the Loudoun County Animal Shelter will be at the Sterling Community. Bring the whole family for a real "happy hour" with animals looking for new homes. Visit www.loudoun.gov/animals.
TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features Halloween dance party. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For middle schoolers.
<cal1>Saturday/Oct. 25
<cal2>APPLE FESTIVAL. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 21668 Heritage Farm Lane, Sterling. Fourth annual Autumn Apple Festival. Exhibit "Virginia Apples for Flavor: The Story of Hill High Orchards," see historic orchard tools at work, learn how to make cider, visit with local orchardists, browse locally made apple products, meet local farmers and learn about how to buy fresh and shop local. Cost: adults $5 and children $3. Call 571-258-3800.
<cal1>Monday/Oct. 27
<cal2>STORY TIME WITH JABBERU. 11 a.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Road, Ashburn. Foreign language story time, expose children to other languages through interactive stories and songs. Ages 3 and up. Day's selection: Spanish language. Register online at http://library.loudoun.gov or phone 703-737-8100.
WOOLGATHERING. 6 p.m., Sterling Library, 120 Enterprise St., Sterling. Bring own stitching project and gather to chat with friends. Ages 12 and up. Call 703-430-9500.
<cal1>Tuesday/Oct. 28
<cal2>MUSEUM TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., to tour the Hillwood Museum and Gardens; lunch on own at museum or bring bag lunch. Cost: $19 for members, $21 for nonmembers, includes transportation and admission. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Wednesday/Oct. 29
<cal2>BINGO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Bingo World in Baltimore, Md.; lunch on own or bring bag lunch. Cost: $11 for members, $13 for nonmembers, includes transportation; purchase bingo cards at the door. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Thursday/Oct. 30
<cal2>MUSEUMS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., with drop off and pick ups at the Natural History, Gallery of Art, American Indian, Air and Space and African Art/Freer/Hirshhorn/Sackler museums; lunch on own. Cost: $9 for members, $11 for nonmembers, includes transportation with free admission. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Friday/Oct. 31
<cal2>TEEN CENTER. 7-10 p.m., After-Hours Teen Center, Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Place, Potomac Falls. Features Halloween dance party. All teens attending the teen center must have a permission slip, signed by a parent or guardian, on file. Download the permission slip at http://library.loudoun.gov go to Teen Scene, Events, Hanging Out Rocks. For high schoolers.
HALLOWEEN PARTY. 2-4 p.m., Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, Sterling. Includes disc jockey, light refreshments, snacks and transportation. Wear costume. Cost: $3 for members in advance, $5 for nonmembers and at door. Call 703-430-2397.
ZOO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., to visit the Smithsonian National Zoological Park; lunch on own or bring bag lunch. Cost: $9 for members, $11 for nonmembers, includes transportation. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Sunday/Nov. 2
<cal2>MONTHLY BREAKFAST. 8 a.m.-noon, Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, 20688 Ashburn Road. Breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, gravy and biscuits, hash browns, coffee and juices. Features monthly themes and Kids Activity Corner; apparatus bay area is open to children of all ages. Cost: adults $6, ages 3-8 $4, under 3 free and seniors $5. Call 703-729-0006.
<cal1>Monday/Nov. 3
<cal2>MUSEUM TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Harrisonburg, Va., to visit the Virginia Quilt Museum; lunch on own or bring bag lunch. Cost: $18 for members, $20 for nonmembers, includes transportation and admission. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Thursday/Nov. 6
<cal2>SENIORS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Gettysburg, Pa., to visit Boyd's Bear Country and tour Eisenhower Farm; lunch on own or bring bag lunch. Cost: $15 for members, $17 for nonmembers, includes transportation, admission and tour. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Tuesday/Nov. 11
<cal2>SENIORS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Arlington, to tour, by Tourmobile, Arlington Cemetery and U.S. Air Force Memorial; bring bag lunch. Cost: $14 for members, $16 for nonmembers, includes transportation and Tourmobile. Moderate walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Thursday/Nov. 13
<cal2>MUSEUMS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., to visit the American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery or Spy Museum; lunch on own. Cost: $9 for members, $11 for nonmembers, includes transportation with free admission to art museums; Spy Museum has admission cost. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
CASINO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Charles Town, W.Va. Includes slots and simulcast horse racing; lunch on own. Cost: $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers, includes transportation and $5 cash back, subject to change. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Friday/Nov. 14
<cal2>FURRY FRIDAY. 5-7 p.m., Sterling Community Center, 20 Enterprise St., Sterling. Once a month, animals from the Loudoun County Animal Shelter will be at the Sterling Community. Bring the whole family for a real "happy hour" with animals looking for new homes. Visit www.loudoun.gov/animals.
<cal1>Saturday/Nov. 15
<cal2>LET'S TALK TURKEY. 10 a.m.-noon, 21668 Heritage Farm Lane, Sterling. Straight talk about the bird and its lore. Hands-on children's activities, stories and games. Free with paid museum admission. Cost: adults $5 and children $3. Call 571-258-3800.
<cal1>Monday/Nov. 17
<cal2>MUSEUMS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., with drop off and pick ups at the Natural History, Gallery of Art, American Indian, Air and Space and African Art/Freer/Hirshhorn/Sackler museums; lunch on own. Cost: $9 for members, $11 for nonmembers, includes transportation with free admission. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Wednesday/Nov. 26
<cal2>CASINO TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Charles Town, W.Va. Includes slots and simulcast horse racing; lunch on own. Cost: $8 for members, $10 for nonmembers, includes transportation and $5 cash back, subject to change. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Sunday/Dec. 7
<cal2>MONTHLY BREAKFAST. 8 a.m.-noon, Ashburn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Company, 20688 Ashburn Road. Breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, gravy and biscuits, hash browns, coffee and juices. Features monthly themes and Kids Activity Corner; apparatus bay area is open to children of all ages. Cost: adults $6, ages 3-8 $4, under 3 free and seniors $5. Call 703-729-0006.
THEATER TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Columbia, Md., to Toby's Dinner Theatre for the production of "Plaid Tidings." Cost: $54 for members, $56 for nonmembers, includes transportation, show, champagne brunch and tip. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Wednesday/Dec. 10
<cal2>HOLIDAY LIGHTS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., for dinner on own at Union Station, viewing of Pageant of Peace and visit to Mormon Temple Grounds and Visitors Center, including live Nativity scene. Cost: $23 for members, $25 for nonmembers, includes transportation with free admission. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Friday/Dec. 12
<cal2>FURRY FRIDAY. 5-7 p.m., Sterling Community Center, 20 Enterprise St., Sterling. Once a month, animals from the Loudoun County Animal Shelter will be at the Sterling Community. Bring the whole family for a real "happy hour" with animals looking for new homes. Visit www.loudoun.gov/animals.
<cal1>Sunday/Dec. 14
<cal2>THEATER TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Columbia, Md., to Toby's Dinner Theatre for the production of "A Christmas Carol." Cost: $58 for members, $60 for nonmembers, includes transportation, show, champagne brunch and tip. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Monday/Dec. 15
<cal2>HOLIDAY LIGHTS TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Washington, D.C., for dinner on own at Union Station, viewing of Pageant of Peace and visit to Mormon Temple Grounds and Visitors Center, including live Nativity scene. Cost: $23 for members, $25 for nonmembers, includes transportation with free admission. Extensive walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.
<cal1>Thursday/Dec. 18
<cal2>THEATER TRIP. The Senior Center at Cascades Marketplace, 21060 Whitfield Place, will take a trip to Columbia, Md., to Toby's Dinner Theatre for the production of "A Christmas Carol." Cost: $58 for members, $60 for nonmembers, includes transportation, show, champagne brunch and tip. Minimum walking. Call 703-430-2397 for departure and return times and locations.