Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

Going Batty

Location of Fairy Stone State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Beach Breezeway
Main Park Address: Fairy Stone State Park, 967 Fairystone Lake Dr., Stuart, VA 24171.

When

April 17, 2026. 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

April 17th is International Bat Appreciation Day!

Do bats make you shiver, smile, or a little of both? Join us for a fun and fascinating celebration of these misunderstood creatures and discover why bats are far more helpful and far more interesting than most people realize.

What to Expect...

Meet the Bats: Explore the incredible diversity of North America’s bat species and learn what makes them such extraordinary animals.

Myth-Busting Fun: From spooky stereotypes to tall tales, we’ll separate fact from fiction and reveal why bats are essential to healthy ecosystem and to us.

Perfect for All Ages: Kids, adults, and curious minds of every kind will enjoy hands-on activities, surprising facts, and engaging demonstrations.

A Special Unveiling: Park volunteers have been hard at work building and installing new bat boxes to support local bat populations. Be there as we unveil these brand-new “batty” homes and talk about how they help conservation efforts.

Celebrate the world’s only flying mammals, learn something new, and leave with a whole new appreciation for the bats that share our skies.

About Earth Day

In celebration of Earth Day on April 22, Virginia State Parks offers a range of special events and activities highlighting the importance of conservation and sustainability. Visitors are invited to participate in educational programs, guided nature walks, wildlife observation, tree plantings and service projects to help preserve the beauty and biodiversity of the state’s 44 parks.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-930-2424
Email Address: FairyStone@dcr.virginia.gov