Where to find it in Northern Virginia

March 11, 8:13 AMDC Family ExaminerRisa Sanders

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Are you new to the area, or perhaps just feeling ready to explore a little? Here are some of my favorite resources for families in Northern Virginia:

The McLean Community Center and the Alden Theater- nearly every weekend has some festival, performance, class or special event that families can enjoy. The Center hosts a community calendar that provides info on other events around McLean as well. Be on the lookout for the McLean Day celebration, sponsored by the MCC. Consider running for the Governing Board if you live in Small Tax District 1. Seats are open for 3 adult members and 2 teen members. Nominating petitions are due March 25th, and can be picked up at the MCC

Vienna, Va.and Falls Church, VA. are home to active community centers and lots of terrific street festivals (see Viva Vienna) too

ParkTakes, the comprehensive program guide (camps, classes, events) to all activities at Fairfax County parks and rec centers

Check out the Community Calendar sections of the McLean Connection and the Sun Gazette for current, local meetings, theater, carnivals, and more

New to Northern Virginia and need contact numbers for utilities, etc? Check out the County Guide in the Reston Connection for a list of must-have phone numbers

River Bend Park and Great Falls State Park frequently host nature walks, classes and informational programs, yoga by the Potomac, along with cookouts, safety and boating classes

Local music clubs and coffeehouses like Jammin Java (in Vienna), Bangkok Blues (in Falls Church)  are often "all ages" and smoke free. Check out their websites for lists of upcoming performances

Things to see and do in Arlington, VA., Also check out the community calendar for a list of theater, open mic, music and other current events

Getting around- info on the Metro for newcomers and old-timers alike

Check out the Washington Checkbook for consumer information ratings on 1000s of local companies and service providers

Need information on everything from taxes to park events, forms and consumer complaints to food stamps? Go to the Fairfax County Government website. A very user-friendly site to help direct you where you need to go. Also visit the Fairfax, Virginia website for updated information on community events around the county

Get free movie passes.for premieres, screenings and new releases. See  my article on how this works for more details

Registering your child for school, boundary changes, testing information, gifted and talented information, updates on the grading scale and proposed start time changes, and more, can be found at the Fairfax County Public Schools website

The public library system has changed dramatically over the years and now provides many services for your convenience, in additon to interesting programs, workshops and lectures. See my article on this subject for interesting details. Check it out!

Check back often for more additions

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