Great Green Events in June
June is a great month to head outdoors. Here is a guide to great green events happening this month.
June is Great Outdoors Month
Celebrate the occasion by taking advantage of all that our great city and nearby areas have to offer. From bike trails to farmers markets to parks and playgrounds, there are plenty of options from which to choose. Try the Old Town Farmers Market in Market Square on Saturday mornings.
National Trails Day
June 2
According to the American Hiking Society, America has more than 200,000 miles of trails connecting you to the great outdoors. Celebrate the day by hiking a new trail and invite some friends to join you. Learn more.
Potomac and C&O Canal Tow Path Clean-up and Repair
June 2, 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
River Center at Lockhouse 8, Cabin John
Join the National Park Service, Potomac Conservancy and REI in removing debris and repairing trails along the Potomac and the C&O Canal Tow Path in honor of National Trails Day. Celebration to follow! Learn more and register.
National Fishing and Boating Week
June 2 – 10
Did you know that most states offer free fishing days? Virginia’s free fishing days are June 1 – 3. Take advantage of them and test the waters. You might get hooked! Learn more from the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries. And, get details on the Kids ‘n Fishing photo contest. Learn more about fun ways to participate from Take Me Fishing.
National Get Outdoors Day
June 9
Celebrate the 5th annual National Get Outdoors Day with a day trip to a Virginia state park. Learn more about the initiative and see the full list of sites. You can also enjoy free admission at allNational Parks, National Forests, and National Wildlife Refuges.
Family Camping Basics
June 13, 7 p.m.
REI, 3509 Carlin Springs Rd., Baileys Crossroads
Just in time for the upcoming Great American Backyard Campout. Learn what you need to know to spend a night in nature. Free! (Registration required)
Eclectic Nature Open House
June 14, 7 p.m.
1503 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria
Still filling out your garden? Head to Eclectic Nature to enjoy some food, fun and door prizes while you explore.
Green Building and Energy Conservation Workshop
Alexandria City Hall, 301 King Street, Sister Cities Conference Room 1101
June 16, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Presented by Eco-City Alexandria, this workshop will provide an overview of the city’s new Energy Saver Loan program, energy audit pilot program, Northern VA Home Performance with Energy Star program, and Washington Gas energy-efficient natural gas rebate program. Register via email to erica.bannerman@alexandriava.gov.
Family Fishing
“Buddie” Ford Nature Center
June 16, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m
Learn the basics of fishing while also learning about native fish in Holmes Run. Registration required ($4 per child)
Kayaking Basics
June 20, 7 p.m.
REI, 3509 Carlin Springs Rd, Baileys Crossroads
Ready to hit the water? Learn what you need to know to be safe and well equipped before you go. Free! (Registration required)
Great American Backyard Campout
June 23
Grab your camping gear and head for the backyard. The National Wildlife Federation has a host of ideas on how you can particpate.
Smithsonian Folklife Festival: Campus and Community
June 27 – July 1 and July 4 – 8
This year marks the 150th anniversary of the founding of land-grant universities and the United States Department of Agriculture. The occasion will be commemorated with a series of events and activities as part of Campus and Community during the Smithsonian Folklife Festival. Learn more.
Did we miss any great green events this month? Tell us about it in the comments.
About this column: Mom and Alexandrian Carolyn Semedo discusses how she tackles living an eco-friendly lifestyle with her husband and kids.
Filed Under: Children and Nature • Classes & Programs • Environment • Events & Activities • Family Fun