Waterford Foundation

Patriotic Pair: An Embroidered Celebration of America at 250
2026-03-14 05:00 - 13:00 (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.

Felt Spiral Fold Hats
2026-03-14 05:00 - 13:00 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197
Create a bold, spiral-pleated hat in this one-day wet felting workshop! Using Merino wool and classic felting techniques, you’ll shape and sculpt a one-of-a-kind piece that’s both wearable art and functional. No experience needed—just bring your creativity!

Large Utility Basket
2026-03-14 05:00 - 13:00 | 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.

Learn to Quilt: Improv Quilted Market Bag
2026-03-14 09:00 - 17:00 | 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
Explore the freedom of improv quilting in this two-day class as you experiment with color, shape, and design to create four unique quilt blocks. On the second day, turn your blocks into a fully lined market tote that’s both functional and expressive—a perfect project for building skills and showcasing your personal style.

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

Felt Bird Pod
2026-03-15 09:00 - 15:00
Create a cozy, colorful bird pod in this fun wet felting workshop! Using naturally water-repellent Bergschaf wool, you’ll craft a seamless shelter perfect for small birds. Learn 3D felting techniques, including using a resist, shaping, and surface design—no experience needed!

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
TWO DAY WORKSHOP
Saturday, April 18, 9 am – 5 p m & Sunday, April 19, 9 am – 3 pm
Discover the art of ecoprinting and needle felting in this creative two-day class. You’ll use leaves and flowers to naturally dye raw silk, creating a unique wallhanging, then bring it to life by adding a felted bird—like a bluebird, chickadee, or cardinal. A peaceful and nature-inspired way to explore color, texture, and design.

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.

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 History Walking Tour
2026-05-30 12:00 - 13:30, 2026-05-31 12:00 - 13:30 | Waterford Old School, 40222 Fairfax St, Waterford, VA, 20197

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!
