by PW Perspective Staff

From an art exhibit, to baseball, to water activities and farming, the month of April is full of opportunities to be active, learn or participate in something new. Check out some of what’s in store for April below, including a sneak peak at our next issue of Leisure.

Attend an Art Exhibit

During the month of April, you can catch the Emerging Student Artistsexhibit presented by the Prince William Arts Council at Open Space Arts. The exhibit runs through April 30.

Catch a Miracle League Baseball Game

Our Miracle League baseball program for youth and adults with mental and physical disabilities kicks off its first game on Saturday, April 15 at 9 am. Come on out to cheer on the team—you will surely be inspired! We are also looking for volunteers to assist during games. All games will be played at Dr. Richard Tami Miracle Field located at George Hellwig Memorial Park. If you know of a child or adult that would like to participate in the program, registration is still open.

Learn Archery as a Family

Looking for a great activity your whole family will have fun learning together? Then sign up for our Family Archery Day class on April 16 or April 30 at Silver Lake Park. This program focuses on archery fundamentals. Each participant is taught range rules, bow and arrow safety, correct form, and stance from our certified instructors. Equipment is provided.

Spend the Day on the Water

It’s officially spring and Lake Ridge Marina will reopen on the weekends starting April 2. Lake Ridge offers rentals for stand-up paddle boards, canoes, pedal boats, kayaks and Jon boats. You can also bring your own boat (max 9.9 hp) or rent one at the marina to launch from the boat ramp. You can also enjoy bank or boat fishing at Lake Ridge and other locations. We also offer pedal boating rentals at Locust Shade Park. If you have your own equipment, you can enjoy non-motorized boating, kayaking and canoeing at Silver Lake Regional Park, Marumsco Acre Lake Park and Occoquan. (No rentals available at these locations). Click here for more information on boating locations.

Learn About Farming

Join us on April 22 for Ben Lomond Farm Day. Ben Lomond was once a thriving farm home to cattle, horses, pigs and sheep. Activities will include sheep shearing, cooking, planting, historical demonstrations, children’s crafts and more! Event is free but please register in advance.

Take in a History Walk

This history walk along the Neabsco Boardwalk on April 22 explores how people affected, lived and visited near this natural creek over the centuries. Register and learn more here.

Become a Survivor

There are just a few more spots for those interested in learning basic survival training in our Survive Together class held at Silver Lake. This activity is designed for a parent and child (age 9+) to work together. You will learn about shelter building, the basics of a compass, emergency first aid, water purification and fire building. At the end of the class we will celebrate our success with smores! Register today!

Shop Our Weekday Farmers Market

Now in its second year, the Prince William Farmers Market is reopening for the season on Thursdays, beginning April 13 to November. Our Dale City Farmers Market which is open year-round, will have earlier hours at 8 am starting April 2. To learn more about our farmers markets, click here.

Check Out the Parks Pop Up Event at Neabsco

Families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, come join our Park Ranger Division in celebrating Earth Day on April 23 on the Neabsco boardwalk. We plan on discussing the importance of wetlands, especially the Julie Metz Wetland Preserve. For more details, click here.

Get a Sneak Peek of Spring/Summer Leisure

The spring/summer Leisure will be available online for preview beginning Tuesday, April 4, with registration opening at 8 am on Tuesday, April 11. On tap for spring, we’ve got an outdoor painting event, a night hike, our Kids for Kids Triathlon and so much more. Get a sneak peak at what’s coming up and “add to wishlist” to mark what you’d like to register for starting April 4.