Weekend Planner: YMCA 5K

It’s going to be a great weekend in Rose Hill!  If you’re searching for something fun to do this Saturday, Oct. 8 and Sunday, Oct. 9, this is the place to look and the adventures are right in our own back yard.       

1. Start your Saturday out with a little exercise for the whole family. YMCA Alexandria has a ”Get Your Move On” 5K Walk/Run.  It’s 3.1 miles to help fight childhood obesity and starts at 8 a.m. Registration information is here. 

2. If a run’s not your idea of fun, you might want to check out the Alexandria West End Art & Wine Festival on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 9 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

3. More of a night owl? What about an evening at the theatre? George Mason University’s Center for the Arts Concert Hall presents “The Importance of Being Ernest”. This play is a delightfully witty comedy by Oscar Wilde performed by the acclaimed Aquila Theatre.

4.  Looking for an adventure that’s a bit more family focused? Visit the Torpedo Factory Art Center on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 12-4 p.m. for Art Safari and Museum Open House. It’s family fun at the Archaeology Museum as the Torpedo Factory Art Center hosts its festival of hands-on arts and crafts activities for kids and their families.

5.  Hoping for an adrenaline rush this weekend? Why not learn how to kayak? Saturday, Oct. 8 at 10:30 a.m. at Riverbend Park you can learn the basics of river kayaking. The $26 fee includes equipment and half-day kayak rental. Participants must be age 14 or older. Register online. For information, call 703-759-9018

You can put your new skills to work on Sunday, Oct. 9 at 9 a.m. at the Island Secrets Tour. Discover the secrets of the islands near Riverbend Park on a scenic kayak tour. Start with the basics, and soon you will be maneuvering through the water. No previous experience required. One and two-person kayaks are available and the cost is $55. Register online. For information, call 703-759-9018.