Event Type : Family Fun

Thursdays – July 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31

Local basket artisan, Clyde Jenkins, returns to Shenandoah to share his talent of basket making.  Clyde teaches participants how to make a white-oak basket with techniques handed down through the generations.  All materials provided to make one basket. Structured for beginners to intermediate.

• $80.00 per person.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour cancellation notice given if minimum is not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• 48-hour individual cancellation notice required for refund. No refund if less than 48-hours’ notice received.

July 5, 8, 12 & 19, and 22 from Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Easy to enjoy, these hikes feature the natural world as it settles into evening.  Hiking out into the “big meadow” at dusk through the dramatic changing colors of the mountain sky and, eventually, the incredible spread of the night sky with its multitude of stars … (at 3,500 ft., you are high above the haze and light pollution of the mid-Atlantic).  You’ll also be looking for all kinds of animal signs and seasonal plants as you explore the ecosystems of the meadows. This is truly an unforgettable experience.  Distance covered is less than one mile.  Led by Andy Nichols of Shenandoah Mountain Guides.

Meet at the grassy circle in front of the lodge at 6:30 p.m. (May thru July) and depart promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Meet at 6:00 p.m. (August) and depart promptly at 6:30 p.m.  You will be driving your personal vehicle to the meadows area. Return to the lodge between 9:30-10:00 p.m.

• $30 per person.
• No pets allowed on hike.
• Dress: long pants, sneakers (no open-toed shoes). A jacket is definitely recommended and a flashlight can also be helpful.
• Reservations required. Deposit taken at time of booking.
• Minimum of 11 paid participants required for program to run.
• 48-hour cancellation notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met. Deposit fully refunded.  No refund if less than 48 hours’ notice received by participants.

Thursdays – July 10 & 24

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!  Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece -no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

• $50 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11” x 14” canvas painting.  Seats are limited, so reserve yours today.
• Grab a drink from the New Market Taproom and be sure to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in.
• Minimum of 3 paying for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Skyland (miles 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• July 20 – “This Isn’t Your Grandaddy’s Moon” Guests will learn the latest about the missions sent to the Moon by NASA, China and India plus manned efforts. Guests will also learn about the Moon’s origin and evolution.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the historic Conference Building located on the lower level at Skyland.

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• “This Isn’t Your Grandaddy’s Moon” Guests will learn the latest about the missions sent to the Moon by NASA, China and India plus manned efforts. Guests will also learn about the Moon’s origin and evolution.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the Massanutten Room at Big Meadows Lodge.

August 1, 11, 12 & 29

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Held at the Big Meadows Area (mile 51, outside the Rapidan Camp Gate).  

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars as well.
• A blanket, chair, and flashlight are also recommended.
• Presentation is canceled if there is inclement weather. 
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Photo by Larry Brown

August 2, 5, 9 & 16 from Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive)

Easy to enjoy, these hikes feature the natural world as it settles into evening.  Hiking out into the “big meadow” at dusk through the dramatic changing colors of the mountain sky and, eventually, the incredible spread of the night sky with its multitude of stars … (at 3,500 ft., you are high above the haze and light pollution of the mid-Atlantic).  You’ll also be looking for all kinds of animal signs and seasonal plants as you explore the ecosystems of the meadows. This is truly an unforgettable experience.  Distance covered is less than one mile.  Led by Andy Nichols of Shenandoah Mountain Guides.

Meet at the grassy circle in front of the lodge at 6:30 p.m. (May thru July) and depart promptly at 7:00 p.m.  Meet at 6:00 p.m. (August) and depart promptly at 6:30 p.m.  You will be driving your personal vehicle to the meadows area. Return to the lodge between 9:30-10:00 p.m.

• $30 per person.
• No pets allowed on hike.
• Dress: long pants, sneakers (no open-toed shoes). A jacket is definitely recommended and a flashlight can also be helpful.
• Reservations required. Deposit taken at time of booking.
• Minimum of 11 paid participants required for program to run.
• 48-hour cancellation notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met. Deposit fully refunded.  No refund if less than 48 hours’ notice received by participants.

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Thursdays – August 7 & 21

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!  Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece -no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

• $50 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11” x 14” canvas painting.  Seats are limited, so reserve yours today.
• Grab a drink from the New Market Taproom and be sure to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in.
• Minimum of 3 paying for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• “Mount Wilson Observatory – Where the Universe Changed Forever” The observatory where discoveries changed our view of the Universe forever.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the Massanutten Room at Big Meadows Lodge.

Thursdays – August 7, 14, 21 & 28

Local basket artisan, Clyde Jenkins, returns to Shenandoah to share his talent of basket making.  Clyde teaches participants how to make a white-oak basket with techniques handed down through the generations.  All materials provided to make one basket. Structured for beginners to intermediate.

• $80.00 per person.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour cancellation notice given if minimum is not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• 48-hour individual cancellation notice required for refund. No refund if less than 48-hours’ notice received.

Learn what to do when the “what ifs” of your outdoor adventures turn into the “now whats”. This course will teach you the best items to take on any outdoor adventure and how to best use them in a survival situation. This course is designed for all outdoor enthusiasts and focuses on key elements for not simply surviving, but thriving when outdoor adventures turn into challenges.  Led by Shenandoah Mountain Guide Andy Nichols.

• $175 per person includes a $20 meal voucher.
• Minimum age: 12 years.
• Reservations required and full payment due at booking.
• No refunds if guest arrives late for the event.
• Event will take place in all weather conditions excluding thunderstorms.
• Meet Andy in front of the Skyland Dining Room Building 15 minutes prior to departing.
• Minimum of 4 paying for program to operate.
• 7-day hour cancellation notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded. 
• No refund if less than 7 days’ notice received by participants.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Skyland (miles 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• “Mount Wilson Observatory – Where the Universe Changed Forever” The observatory where discoveries changed our view of the Universe forever.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the historic Conference Building located on the lower level at Skyland.

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• Sept 4 – “New Horizons to Pluto And Beyond” 2015 was the year we got to see Pluto, the dethroned 9^th planet of our solar system, up close and personal.  Learn about the famous dwarf planet from discovery to flyby to the follow on mission.

• Sept 18 – “Our Star, the Sun”. How does Sun shine? How was it born, live and ultimately, die? Our guests will be amazed after they learn about our star.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the Massanutten Room at Big Meadows Lodge.

Thursdays – September 4, 11, 18 & 25

Local basket artisan, Clyde Jenkins, returns to Shenandoah to share his talent of basket making.  Clyde teaches participants how to make a white-oak basket with techniques handed down through the generations.  All materials provided to make one basket. Structured for beginners to intermediate.

• $80.00 per person.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour cancellation notice given if minimum is not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• 48-hour individual cancellation notice required for refund. No refund if less than 48-hours’ notice received.

Thursdays – September 11 & 25

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!  Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece -no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

• $50 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11” x 14” canvas painting.  Seats are limited, so reserve yours today.
• Grab a drink from the New Market Taproom and be sure to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in.
• Minimum of 3 paying for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Learn what to do when the “what ifs” of your outdoor adventures turn into the “now whats”. This course will teach you the best items to take on any outdoor adventure and how to best use them in a survival situation. This course is designed for all outdoor enthusiasts and focuses on key elements for not simply surviving, but thriving when outdoor adventures turn into challenges.  Led by Shenandoah Mountain Guide Andy Nichols.

• $175 per person includes a $20 meal voucher.
• Minimum age: 12 years.
• Reservations required and full payment due at booking.
• No refunds if guest arrives late for the event.
• Event will take place in all weather conditions excluding thunderstorms.
• Meet Andy in front of the Skyland Dining Room Building 15 minutes prior to departing.
• Minimum of 4 paying for program to operate.
• 7-day hour cancellation notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded. 
• No refund if less than 7 days’ notice received by participants.

September 12 @ 7:00 p.m. | September 26 @ 6:45 p.m.

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Held at the Big Meadows Area (mile 51, outside the Rapidan Camp Gate).  

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars as well.
• A blanket, chair, and flashlight are also recommended.
• Presentation is canceled if there is inclement weather. 
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Photo by Larry Brown

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Skyland (miles 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• September 14 – “New Horizons to Pluto And Beyond” 2015 was the year we got to see Pluto, the dethroned 9^th planet of our solar system, up close and personal.  Learn about the famous dwarf planet from discovery to flyby to the follow on mission.
• September 21 – “Our Star, the Sun”. How does Sun shine? How was it born, live and ultimately, die? Our guests will be amazed after they learn about our star.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the historic Conference Building located on the lower level at Skyland.

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Big Meadows Lodge (mile 51 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• “The Milky Way and You” You live in a galaxy called the Milky Way. Learn about your home among the galaxies and see it as you have never seen it before.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the Massanutten Room at Big Meadows Lodge.

Thursdays – October 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30

Local basket artisan, Clyde Jenkins, returns to Shenandoah to share his talent of basket making.  Clyde teaches participants how to make a white-oak basket with techniques handed down through the generations.  All materials provided to make one basket. Structured for beginners to intermediate.

• $80.00 per person.
• Minimum of 3 paid participants required for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour cancellation notice given if minimum is not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• 48-hour individual cancellation notice required for refund. No refund if less than 48-hours’ notice received.

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Skyland (miles 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• “The Milky Way and You” You live in a galaxy called the Milky Way. Learn about your home among the galaxies and see it as you have never seen it before.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the historic Conference Building located on the lower level at Skyland.

Thursdays – October 9 & 23

Brie Austin – Bringing Creativity to Life, One Paint Party at a Time!  Brie is the owner and artist behind Austin Acres, a mobile paint party experience that makes creativity accessible and fun for everyone! With years of experience leading engaging, step-by-step painting events, Brie specializes in helping guests of all skill levels create their own masterpiece -no prior painting experience required.

Her events are more than just a class; they are a social, interactive, and stress-free experience where guests can Relax, have fun, and explore their creativity. Brie knows how to keep the atmosphere lively and enjoyable for all.

• $50 per person. Beginners or experienced artists.
• All materials provided to make your own 11” x 14” canvas painting.  Seats are limited, so reserve yours today.
• Grab a drink from the New Market Taproom and be sure to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in.
• Minimum of 3 paying for workshop to operate.
• 48-hour notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met. Deposit fully refunded.
• No refund if less than 48-hour cancellation notice received by participants.

Learn what to do when the “what ifs” of your outdoor adventures turn into the “now whats”. This course will teach you the best items to take on any outdoor adventure and how to best use them in a survival situation. This course is designed for all outdoor enthusiasts and focuses on key elements for not simply surviving, but thriving when outdoor adventures turn into challenges.  Led by Shenandoah Mountain Guide Andy Nichols.

• $175 per person includes a $20 meal voucher.
• Minimum age: 12 years.
• Reservations required and full payment due at booking.
• No refunds if guest arrives late for the event.
• Event will take place in all weather conditions excluding thunderstorms.
• Meet Andy in front of the Skyland Dining Room Building 15 minutes prior to departing.
• Minimum of 4 paying for program to operate.
• 7-day hour cancellation notice provided if program cancelled due to minimum not met.  Deposit fully refunded. 
• No refund if less than 7 days’ notice received by participants.

October 10 @ 7:00 p.m. | October 24 @ 6:45 p.m.

National Parks are becoming a refuge for people from city light pollution.  Join Amateur astronomers as they present a provocative presentation on controlling light pollution while they point out the heavenly stars.

Held at the Big Meadows Area (mile 51, outside the Rapidan Camp Gate).  

• Free to all park visitors.
• Telescopes provided, but participants are recommended to bring their own binoculars as well.
• A blanket, chair, and flashlight are also recommended.
• Presentation is canceled if there is inclement weather. 
• Call 540-999-2222 the day of the event to check on status.

Photo by Larry Brown

First held in 1970, the annual fall festival is one of the oldest arts and crafts shows of its kind in Virginia. Since launching half a century ago, the two-day event — held each October over Columbus Day weekend — has grown to include dozens of crafters and artisans from throughout Virginia and the Valley.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy food, entertainment, activities, and dozens of demonstrations, with many dressed to reflect Page Valley’s olden days. Demonstrations include farm work from Page’s early years, including log sawing, wheat thrashing, corn husking, and hay bailing.

Event-goers can choose from tasty selections ranging from sweet treats like dumplings and donuts to savory selections such as pulled pork, country ham, and cornbread.

First held in 1970, the annual fall festival is one of the oldest arts and crafts shows of its kind in Virginia. Since launching half a century ago, the two-day event — held each October over Columbus Day weekend — has grown to include dozens of crafters and artisans from throughout Virginia and the Valley.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy food, entertainment, activities, and dozens of demonstrations, with many dressed to reflect Page Valley’s olden days. Demonstrations include farm work from Page’s early years, including log sawing, wheat thrashing, corn husking, and hay bailing.

Event-goers can choose from tasty selections ranging from sweet treats like dumplings and donuts to savory selections such as pulled pork, country ham, and cornbread.

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Jeff Alt, a talented speaker and award-winning author of A Walk for Sunshine, enjoys sharing his 2,160-mile Appalachian Trail adventures with Shenandoah National Park visitors. Jeff uses humor and adventure in a story telling format. His presentations involve music, slides, and personal narration. Alt, an expert hiker, has been featured on Discovery Channel.com and many more. Alt’s books, The Adventures of Bubba Jones: Time Traveling Through Shenandoah National Park and Get Your Kids Hiking: How to Start Them Young and Keep it Fun, are inspiring families to literally, take a hike.

Amateur astronomer, Frank Perfetti, will share with you not only his love for astronomy but also for aviation, which he did as a volunteer at the National Air and Space Museum in D.C. manning a Discovery Station.

Presentations take place at Big Meadows, and will begin with Solar Viewing in the meadow at 2:00 PM, followed by a Night Skies PP Presentation in the Big Meadows Lodge Massanutten Room beginning at 8:00 PM.

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Solar Viewing in the big meadow area
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM Night Skies Presentation in Massanutten Room

Join NASA JPL Solar System Ambassador Greg Redfern at Skyland (miles 41.7 and 42.5 on Skyline Drive) for an engaging presentation about outer space!

• November 9 – JWST-NASA’s Successor to Hubble Space Telescope (HST)” The 2021 space telescope successor to HST seen up close and personal with latest pics and info direct from NASA.
• November 23 – “My Top Ten Or So Space Movies” Enjoy classic trailers and my commentary on what I consider to be the “Top 10 Or So Space Movies” of all time.

“Under the Stars at Shenandoah National Park” – If the sky is clear after the presentation, guests will move outdoors to see the night sky in all its glory while listening to sky lore and fascinating sky facts!

Free to all park visitors. Held in the historic Conference Building located on the lower level at Skyland.