Waterford Foundation

Patriotic Pair: An Embroidered Celebration of America at 250
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 (America/New_York) | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
TWO DAY WORKSHOP
Saturday, March 14, 9 am – 5 pm & Sunday, March 15, 9 am – 3 pm
Create a festive embroidered medallion celebrating America’s 250th birthday while learning a dozen classic stitches. The finished piece can be displayed in the provided hoop or adapted into an ornament or decorative accent and is best suited for students with basic needlework skills.

Large Utility Basket
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Learn to weave a large utility basket using reed and oak, perfect for blankets, pillows, laundry, or toys. Students will prepare materials, weave the base and sides, attach rims and handles, lash the basket, and secure oak runners with copper brads.

Making a Floorcloth from Start to Finish
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Create your own beautiful 2’ x 3’ painted canvas floorcloth in this one-day workshop! Popular in the 18th and 19th centuries as a durable and decorative floor covering, floorcloths are both practical and beautiful. Choose a diamond pattern, pick your colors, and bring your vision to life using provided paints and stencils—or your own designs. All materials are included

Waterford on the Rocks: Pub Trivia Night
2026-03-14 18:30 - 21:30
Join us for the Waterford on the Rocks Cocktail Series!
An evening of laughter and friendly competition awaits at the Second Annual Pub Trivia Night. Gather your friends and put your knowledge to the test in a fun atmosphere that promises great memories and benefits the Waterford Foundation. Celebrate St. Patrick’s day with friends, trivia, authentic pub food, and prizes!
Pub Trivia Night
Join us and test your knowledge at an evening of Pub Trivia.
Event Details

Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Time: 6:30 – 9:30 PM
Location: The Ephraim Schooley House (note new location!)

Tickets: Individual tickets on sale NOW! ($60) – Buy tickets online here!
Ticket purchase includes drinks, food, and trivia registration. Advance purchase only. Tickets will not be available at the door.
The Waterford Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit (EIN 54-0755457), and a portion of your ticket purchase may be tax deductible. Cocktail party value: $30 per ticket.

Small Market Basket
2026-03-15 09:00 - 15:00
Create a small market basket using traditional techniques. Students will work with natural reed and oak to prepare materials, weave the base and sides, attach rims and handles, and finish the basket with lashing.

Women's History Walking Tour
2026-03-21 15:00 - 16:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
This month’s walking tour theme is Women’s History. Come see the Village in which women owned businesses along Main Street and marketed their trade, three Quaker women wrote the Waterford News calling for a Union victory in the midst of the Civil War, and more!
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Register Here

Kaleidoscope Ecoprinting on Silk and Wool
2026-04-17 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Explore colorful ecoprinting on silk and wool using plants from nature. Learn techniques that create layered, multi colored designs inspired by stained glass and kaleidoscope patterns. Students will leave with a silk scarf and a merino wool scarf and the skills to continue ecoprinting at home.

Jewelry Making Workshop
2026-04-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
This two-part jewelry workshop explores wire and bead techniques followed by resin jewelry making. In the first session, learn about wire types, gauges, and tools while creating silver wire earrings and an adjustable ring. In the second, use UV resin, molds, and dried florals to craft nature-inspired earrings or pendants

Spoon Carving
2026-04-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Let the wood guide you! Learn the basics of spoon carving in this one-day workshop, from choosing wood and preparing blanks to safe axe and knife techniques. Using just three tools, you’ll start your own wooden spoon and gain the skills and confidence to continue carving at home. Materials and tools provided.

Avlea Folk Embroidery Bookmark
2026-04-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Students will learn the basics of counted cross stitch while stitching one of three folk-style bookmark designs by Krista West of Avlea Folk Embroidery. Instruction covers working on evenweave fabric with cotton floss, reading and counting a pattern, essential stitching techniques, and simple finishing options.

Ecoprint and Needlefelt a Wall Hanging
2026-04-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Learn how to create beautiful plant prints on silk using the art of ecoprinting. In this workshop, students will imprint leaves and plants directly onto silk and learn techniques to enhance the natural designs. Each participant will leave with two silk scarves: one featuring natural botanical prints and another with a colorful background, along with the skills to continue ecoprinting using nature’s resources.

Warp Weighted Loom: The Next Steps
2026-04-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
TWO DAY WORKSHOP
Saturday, April 18, 9 am – 5 p m & Sunday, April 19, 9 am – 3 pm
This two-day class expands on beginner warp weighted weaving but is open to all. Learn to set up and warp for tabby weave using provided looms. With extra time to weave, students can complete a small project like a scarf or table runner.

Clay Resist and Indigo Dyeing
2026-04-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
TWO DAY WORKSHOP
Saturday, April 18, 9 am – 5 p m & Sunday, April 19, 9 am – 3 pm
Explore the art of clay resist and indigo dyeing in this hands-on workshop. Learn to mix clay paste, forage wild clay, and create unique patterns using block printing, painting, and more. We’ll cover indigo vat care and surface design basics—no experience needed, just a love for natural materials.

Architecture Walking Tour
2026-04-18 16:00 - 17:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
This month’s theme is historic architecture. Come do a deep dive into the built environment of the Village of Waterford, learn more about the architectural styles prevalent in the Village, and some of the stories behind some of the well known buildings in Waterford!
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Register Here

Learn to Quilt: Zippered Pouch
2026-04-19 09:00 - 15:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Piece patchwork panels, add a lining, and master zipper installation as you create a beautiful quilted pouch. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting a small, practical quilting project, your finished pouch will be ready to use or gift.

Knitting in the Gaps: Women Showing Up For The Fight
2026-04-25 14:00 - 16:00
Come join us for an afternoon of craft and history! Bring your current crafting project with you (knitting or not) to work on, trade crafting tips and project ideas with other craft and history lovers, and discover how knitting became an act of patriotism, survival, and solidarity during the Civil War with special guest speaker public historian and knitting enthusiast Susan Chumley!
About the Speaker: Susan Chumley is a former Park Ranger and Public Historian with the National Park Service. She served for six years interpreting, primarily, early American and American Civil War history at Arlington House, the Robert E. Lee Memorial overlooking Arlington National Cemetery. In addition, Susan completed a 25 year career with the United States Air Force Band as a trombonist in the Ceremonial Brass. She is now retired and enjoys knitting, riding long distances on her bicycle, and expanding her knowledge on underrepresented people and cultures in American history.

Knitting in the Gaps: Women Showing up for the Fight Lyceum
Date: Saturday April 25th
Time: 2pm
Price: Free!

10th Annual Historic Waterford Trail Run
2026-05-09 08:00 - 12:00
2026 Historic Waterford 5K/10K Trail Run/Walk
Registration is NOW OPEN
Lace Up for the Landmark!
Join us Saturday, May 9, 2026 for a 5K/10K trail run and Fun Run through the scenic trails, vineyards, and streets of historic Waterford, Virginia. This will be an in-person event.

The course follows paved/gravel roads & scenic trails through the Waterford National Historic Landmark and surrounding farms and vineyards.
Runners will receive a handcrafted medal and a commemorative race shirt.
Visit nearby Loudoun wineries, breweries, restaurants and coffee shops after the race!

Event Information:
Registration is NOW OPEN

8:30 am: 10K start
8:40 am: 5K start
9:30 am: Awards
10:00 am: Fun Run start

Location:

Registration: Race day registration and packet pickup is at the Waterford Mill (40105 Main Street, Waterford, VA) from 8-8:45 am.
Start/Finish: All three races (5K, 10K and Fun Run) begin and end on Main Street behind the John Wesley Community Church (40125 Bond Street, Waterford, VA).
Parking: Parking is located a short walk away on the Phillips Farm on Old Wheatland Road. Use 40024 Old Wheatland Rd, Waterford, VA 20197 (Waterford Water Treatment Facility across Old Wheatland Road from the Phillips Farm) to navigate to the parking area and watch for the event parking signs. There is no parking at the registration area.
Road Closures: Roads will be closed through Waterford by 8:00 am. Please plan to arrive and park before 8:00 am.

Cancellation/Refunds:
Unfortunately, we cannot offer a refund for this event. Since we immediately spend the registration fee on ordering the medals, t-shirts and shipping, all sales are final.
Prize details:
Race medals and t-shirts will be provided to all participants (including Fun Run participants) at the race. There are no shirt size exchanges. Register by April 9, 2026 to guarantee your selected shirt size. Race packets must be picked up by race day. Leftover packets, including t-shirts, will be donated.
Race Results and Awards:
The top three overall male and female 5K and 10K finishers will receive awards. Race results will be posted on the PR Races website following the race.
Course details:
The 5K and 10K courses cover a variety of surfaces throughout the Waterford National Historic Landmark. Runners should expect rolling hills, mostly trails and gravel roads with some paved roads and the possibility for mud.

Sponsorship

Historic Waterford Trail Run Sponsors support the preservation and education work of the Waterford Foundation while reaching over 500 runners and their families. Visit our Sponsor Application Form here.
Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors!
2025 Course Sponsors:

2025 Premier Sponsors:

2025 Gold Sponsors:

2025 Silver Sponsors:
Browning Equipment, Inc.
Leesburg Buick GMC
United Wellness & Sports Rehab
Paige’s Pit Stop
2025 Bronze Sponsors:
BOWA
Volunteer Opportunities Available

We rely on a strong and dedicate group of volunteers to put on the Historic Waterford Trail Run each year. Please click here to fill out our volunteer interest form and we will reach out with more information on volunteering opportunities.

Historic Gardens Walking Tour
2026-05-16 16:00 - 17:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
Register Here

Waterford Open House
2026-05-30 - 2026-05-31
Have you ever wandered by the Second Street School or the Waterford Mill and wanted to learn more? Now’s your chance! Come take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the history of a village of ordinary people doing extraordinary things where the Village of Waterford and the surrounding farmland totaling 1,420 acres was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970. First settled by Quakers in 1733, the Waterford National Historic Landmark has a long and storied history of agriculture, craft, industry, women’s history, African American history, and more!
We invite you and your family to come explore the historic village on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st through:

Exploring open historic buildings including an c.1817 mill that led the milling industry of Waterford and the 1867 one room African American schoolhouse open until 1957
Guided and self-guided walking tours of the Village of Waterford
Nature walks on a historic Quaker farm that is now conserved open space
Children’s activities throughout the Village of Waterford, including a village wide puzzle hunt!
Special travelling exhibit- Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture Presented by the Altria A Legacy Project of American Evolution Supported by Conrad and Peggy Hall, Mr. and Mrs. G. Gilmer Minor III

What is there to do at the Waterford Open House?
Explore the history of the Village in historic buildings and trails open in the Village and on a self-guided walking tour: Have you ever wandered by the Second Street School or the Waterford Mill and wanted to see inside? Now’s your chance! The historic buildings below will be open with exhibits, docents, and children’s activities to help you dive into the important history of Waterford.

The Waterford Mill– a c.1817 mill that helped lead the integral milling industry of the area. Located at 40105 Main Street, Waterford VA.
Second Street School- the Reconstruction era one-room African American schoolhouse that served African American children and families till 1957, when students were then bused into Leesburg to Douglas. Located at 15611 Second Street, Waterford VA.
The Waterford Old School– 1910 schoolhouse that served the White students of Waterford. Located at 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA.
Phillips Farm– historic farm owned by Quaker Thomas Phillips and his family that is now conserved farmland and open space with walking trails. Entrances to the Main Village Walking Trail is located behind the Mill and Second Street School, Western trail is located off of the Interpretive Pull-off.

To help with your walk around the Village, pick up a self guided walking tour booklet to learn more about the buildings and homes you are walking by on your time between stops!
Solve the Village Wide Puzzle Hunt and Get a Prize! Hey kids– in between other children and family activities, keep an eye out for clues to solve a special puzzle to win a prize! Puzzle sheets and prizes are available at the Waterford Old School at 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA.
Come see a special exhibit from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture! Determined: The 400-Year Struggle for Black Equality from the Virginia Museum of History and Culture Presented by the Altria A Legacy Project of American Evolution Supported by Conrad and Peggy Hall, Mr. and Mrs. G. Gilmer Minor III will be on loan for the weekend! This very special exhibit can be seen at the Waterford Old School at 40222 Fairfax Street.
Learn about the ins and outs of historic preservation at the Preservation Academy: Have you wondered what historic preservation is, and how it works in Loudoun and beyond? Join us at the Waterford Open House for this series of free talks diving into the ins and outs of historic preservation, and how you can get involved given by experts from all over the county and beyond! Below is a list of programs available throughout the weekend. These are free to attend, but registration is encouraged. More will be added in the coming months, so stayed tuned!

Saturday, May 30th at 12:30pm-1:45pm: Historic Easements Workshop– Historic easements are an important tool in stewarding historic properties. Come join Claire Jones- Claire Jones- Associate Director of the Easement Program at the National Trust for Historic Preservation- and Brad McDonald- Stewardship Coordinator and Archaeologist at the Virginia Department of Historic Resources- for a talk about what historic preservation easements are, how they assist in the stewardship of historic resources, and how historic easements work and how to put an easement in place. Registration for this free talk is not required, but encouraged and can be done at this link.

*Dive further into the history of Waterford on a Guided Walking Tour: Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark and walk through the history of the village with an experienced docent! There are two approximately 90 minute long guided walking tours each day at 12:30pm and 2:30pm. Below are the walking tours available during the Waterford Open House:

Saturday, May 30th at 12:30pm: Historic Village Walking Tour– Dive into the history of the Village from an agricultural and industrial Village to a National Historic Landmark in this guided walking tour.
Saturday, May 30th at 2:30pm: Waterford in the Civil War Walking Tour– From the Battle of the Baptist Church, Waterford News, and more- come join a docent on a tour of the village to learn what life was like here during those four bloody years and beyond.
Sunday, May 31st at 12:30pm: Historic Village Walking Tour– Dive into the history of the Village from an agricultural and industrial Village to a National Historic Landmark in this guided walking tour.
Sunday May 31st at 2:30pm: African American History Walking Tour- By 1830, one in four households were headed by free Blacks. During this tour, you will be able to hear the stories of the families who lived here and helped build Waterford into the place we know today; while experiencing their surroundings and exploring buildings like the Second Street School.

Guided walking tours are approximately 90 minutes long, and leave from the Waterford Old School (40222 Fairfax Street). Tickets are $20, and can be either purchased ahead of time at this link or on the day of.

Waterford Open House FAQs:
Date and Time: Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12pm-5pm
Location: Waterford Foundation buildings throughout the Village of Waterford will be open for the public to come and explore, as well as activities for all ages at buildings throughout the Village. These will be marked on a map available at the event. Walking tours, check-in, and general information will be at the Waterford Old School at 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA
Parking: The Foundation suggests visitors park at the Waterford Old School- 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA
Is this event free? Yes! The exhibits and activities are largely self-guided (with maps available at the Waterford Old School and other properties). If you have questions, docents will be at each building that is open. However, if you want to participate in a guided walking tour, you do have to purchase a ticket.
Is this event child friendly? Yes! Children’s activities will be available at different spots around the Village. Children will also have the opportunity to participate in a puzzle hunt with a prize for each kid who completes it! Prizes are available at the Waterford Old School.
Are restrooms available? Yes, restrooms will be available at place marked on the map. Accessible restrooms are available at the Waterford Old School.

Historic Village Walking Tour @ Waterford Open House!
2026-05-30 12:30 - 14:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
This is an optional guided walking tour that is happening during the Waterford Foundation Open House on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12-5pm both days. Before or after your tour, we invite you to come continue to explore Waterford through the activities and special exhibits available throughout the Village for all ages.
Tours will be leaving from the Waterford Old School: 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA. Tickets are $20 and can be either purchased ahead of time at this link or at the event. Space is limited.

Waterford in the Civil War Walking Tour @ Waterford Open House!
2026-05-30 14:30 - 16:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
The focus of this tour is the Civil War. From the Battle of the Baptist Church, Waterford News, and more- join us on a tour of the village to learn what life was like here during those four bloody years and beyond. On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
This is an optional guided walking tour that is happening during the Waterford Foundation Open House on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12-5pm both days. Before your tour, we invite you to come continue to explore Waterford through the activities and special exhibits available throughout the Village for all ages.
Tours will be leaving from the Waterford Old School: 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA. Tickets are $20, and can be purchased either in advance at this link or on the day of the event. Space is limited.

Historic Village Walking Tour @ Waterford Open House!
2026-05-31 12:30 - 14:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
This is an optional guided walking tour that is happening during the Waterford Foundation Open House on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12-5pm both days. Before or after your tour, we invite you to come continue to explore Waterford through the activities and special exhibits available throughout the Village for all ages.
Tours will be leaving from the Waterford Old School: 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA. You can register ahead of time at this link, or on the day of the event. Space is limited.

African American History Walking Tour @ Waterford Open House
2026-05-31 14:30 - 16:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Experience the Waterford National Historic Landmark on a guided historic walking tour! In 1970 the Secretary of the Interior designated Waterford and its rural surround a National Historic Landmark. Well into the 20th century, most Americans lived and worked on farms or in small towns like this one. Few of these places have remained much as they were. Waterford, miraculously, is one that has. Walk with us through time for clues to Waterford’s character and tenacity. It is a story of ordinary people who did extraordinary things. They built a thriving town from wilderness; they endured a long and bloody war that threatened to destroy their home; and in good times and bad they held tightly to their vision of a special place. Preserving the village and its setting as a national site for everyone is the principal mission of the Waterford Foundation.
The focus of this tour is African American history in Waterford. By 1830, one in four households were headed by free Blacks. During the tour, you will be able to hear the stories of the families who lived here and helped build Waterford into the place we know today. On your tour, you will see houses from the mid 18th century to the 21st. The tour begins at the Old School and covers the entire village in about 90 minutes. Tours will run rain or shine, so come dressed for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes.
This is an optional guided walking tour that is happening during the Waterford Foundation Open House on Saturday May 30th and Sunday May 31st from 12-5pm both days. Before your tour, we invite you to come continue to explore Waterford through the activities and special exhibits available throughout the Village for all ages.
Tours will be leaving from the Waterford Old School: 40222 Fairfax Street, Waterford VA. Tickets are $20 are can be purchased in advance at this link or on the day of. Space is limited.

African American History Walking Tour
2026-06-20 14:00 - 15:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197

The 82nd Waterford Fair October 2-4, 2026
2026-10-01 - 2026-10-04
Come shop, play, tour and make memories during this 82-year-old tradition — the Waterford Foundation’s “Waterford Fair”! The Fair is the mid-Atlantic’s quintessential fall festival with demonstrating fine heritage & contemporary craft artisans, living historians, a juried art show, historic properties tour, local libations, and entertainment for all ages.
Located in the National Historic Landmark of Waterford (f. 1733), this unique village is situated in Western Loudoun County, Virginia. Noted as “DC’s Wine Country”, we are only 50 minutes from the District of Columbia.
For tickets and event information, visit www.waterfordfairva.org
Event proceeds support the preservation and education efforts of the Waterford Foundation, a 501(c)(3).

Waterford Bicycle Classic
2026-10-24 - 2026-10-25 | Wheatland Spring Farm + Brewery, 38506 John Wolford Road, Waterford, VA, 20197, United States
Welcome to the Waterford Bicycle Club’s 2nd Annual Waterford Bicycle Classic!
Registration coming soon for 2026.
Join us for an unforgettable day riding some of the country’s oldest and most exciting gravel roads through the rolling hills of the Waterford area in Loudoun county, VA.
Just an hour from DC, this ride will celebrate the warmth of our community, the wonderful team and beer at award-winning estate brewery Wheatland Spring Farm and Brewery, three beautiful and thrilling routes, and a wonderful cause.
All proceeds from the event directly support the Waterford Foundation, dedicated to preserving the heritage, history, and natural beauty of our region. The event is also designed to shed light on a few of our favorite local businesses and organizations that take pride in building community here. They play an integral role to making our region such a special place to live and visit.
We’re glad we’ll be able to share all of this with you.
The Ride – 250 Years In the Making
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to cycling events, the Waterford Bicycle Classic offers something for everyone. Choose from three thoughtfully designed routes featuring a picturesque but challenging blend of gravel roads and smooth pavement, winding through some of Loudoun County’s most historic and scenic areas. These routes will sample some of our 300+ miles of gravel roads in Loudoun county, some of which are more than 250 years old, so you’ll have plenty of reason to come back.
Our routes are being developed with the support of some of the region’s most experienced and competitive gravel cyclists. The routes include:

“Half-pint.” Short Route (~20 miles)
Perfect for riders seeking a more leisurely experience or newcomers exploring their first gravel adventure. This route meanders through rolling countryside, historical landmarks, and charming farms.
“Full Pint.” Medium Route (~40 miles)
Ideal for riders looking for a bit more challenge and adventure, tapering from the race circuit, or seeking a new personal best. Featuring a balanced mix of scenic gravel and pavement, you’ll traverse through breathtaking views and significant historical sites.
“The Stein.” Long Route (~60 miles)
Designed for the more ambitious cyclist, this route tests your endurance through stunning vistas, historical backdrops, and delightful rural roads that go up, down, up, down, up, down, etc. Expect rewarding climbs and exhilarating descents.

Detailed route maps and GPS files will be available soon.
Registration coming soon for 2026.
The Celebration – New Friends, Great Beer, Delicious Food
After you crush the course, you’ll return back to Wheatland Spring Farm and Brewery, greeted by friendly WBC volunteers.
You’ll receive a commemorative Chalice of the Gravel pint cup and one free pint of locally-crafted Wheatland Spring beer, and a commemorative wood medallion you can show your friends on Monday.
If you haven’t visited Wheatland Spring Farm and Brewery, you’re going to fall in love with it. The owners are passionate advocates for making local products with local ingredients supporting local businesses, all while producing award-winning beer and an unmatched experience of Waterford’s warm welcome.
Food from our great friends at Pizzaria Loco will also be available for pre-purchase during registration (which we strongly recommend) and limited quantities will be available for same-day purchase.

Other information:

Packets. We will have WBC team members at Wheatland Spring Brewery signing out ride packets to riders Friday between 5 and 7pm, Saturday between 3 and 6pm, or Sunday morning starting at 630am.
Ride times. The 60-miler starts promptly at 8am. The 20- and 40-milers start at 9am.
Ride type. This is a ride, not a race, and we hope you’ll enjoy the routes at a comfortable pace. This ride routes you through beautiful roads paved and unpaved, and the route will not be closed. This means you need to take care and ride like you normally ride at home – carefully, with caution, and carefully!
Weather. This is a rain-or-shine event. This event will not be canceled on account of weather. As many of you know, late October in our region is fun. It can be sunny and delightful or cold and stormy. Just be ready for both.
Routes. Our routes have been carefully designed by our some of our region’s most experienced cyclists. They’re bound to please even the most salty riders.
Aid stations. We will have well-stocked aid stations for each route. Expect one for the 20-miler, and three each for the 40 and 60. More details will be shared as we get closer to ride time.

We’re making this event about, from, and for our community. Our goal is to put on the warmest, “localist” gravel ride in the country so you fall in love with our region, keep coming back, and start bringing all your friends.
Please email waterfordbicycle@gmail.com with any questions whatsoever.
Enjoy!
