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Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 28, 2026
Contact: Kim Wells, Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-217-1077, kim.wells@dcr.virginia.gov

Mason Neck State Park to host 28th Annual Eagle Festival
Enjoy a firsthand look at eagles and other wildlife

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Eagle in the tree)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Eagle Festival at Mason Neck)

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Mason Neck sign)

LORTON, Va. – The 28th Annual Eagle Festival at Mason Neck State Park returns on May 9 from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. with another fun filled day the whole family will enjoy.

The Eagle Festival features live animal demonstrations, hands-on learning experiences, and outdoor recreation clinics, all designed to showcase Northern Virginia’s rich natural history and inspire environmental stewardship.

This event honors the decades of conservation efforts that have shaped the Mason Neck Peninsula. Without the dedication of advocates like Elizabeth Hartwell, affectionately known as “The Eagle Lady” and the namesake of the Mason Neck National Wildlife Refuge, the landscape we treasure today would look drastically different.

The Eagle Festival brings the community together for programs and activities that celebrate conservation, preservation and the legacy of those who helped protect this unique environment.

“Saving the bald eagle is what kicked off conservation here, but so many other plants and animals have thrived because of all the protected land on the peninsula,” said Mason Neck State Park Manager Lance Elzie. “Join us in continuing their legacy. We hope you come out to the park, have fun, get involved and help protect Mason Neck for generations to come.”

Guests will have the opportunity to see live reptiles, hawks and owls up close as well as learn about the park’s resident bald eagles and hopefully see them in flight overhead. There will be live music, food, nature programs, a puppet show and exhibits by conservation partners.

For more event details, visit the Eagle Festival event page.

Virginia State Parks would like to thank the Friends of Mason Neck State Park for their continued support of the park and this event, and thanks to all of the Peninsula partners and sponsors that make this event possible.

About Virginia State Parks

Virginia State Parks are managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation. For more information about Virginia State Parks’ activities and amenities or to reserve one of the more than 1,800 campsites or 300 climate-controlled cabins, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.

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