Published April 14, 2026 at 11:45AM
The Plaza at Mason Square (courtesy of GMU)
A map of the planned 5K (via Strava)
A map of the planned 2-mile walk (via Strava)
George Mason University’s Virginia Square campus is hosting a health-centered festival this weekend, with a fun run, live fitness classes and a DJ.
The celebration, called Clarendon FitFest, kicks off at 8 a.m. on Saturday at Mason Square Plaza (3351 Fairfax Drive) with a 5K run and 2-mile walk. These will be followed by a “fitness fair” with live class demonstrations and free giveaways until 12:30 p.m.
Fitness studios such as Barre3, Orangetheory and Gold’s Gym are among 30 local businesses and organizations participating in the free event. Other participants include Capital Bikeshare and VHC Health.
The following fitness groups are scheduled to give 20-minute demonstrations.
SPENGA Ballston: Yoga Flow at 9 a.m.
Strong Academy: Functional Conditioning at 9:30 a.m.
Method Fitness: Strength & Mobility at 10 a.m.
Club Pilates: Pilates Preview at 10:30 a.m.
Barre3: Barre at 11 a.m.
Onelife: Zumba at 11:30 a.m.
Lifetime Fitness: Pilates Fusion at noon
The inaugural Clarendon FitFest is being organized by the Clarendon Alliance, University Life Mason Square and Pacers Running.
“Clarendon FitFest is a celebration of community and wellness,” University Life Mason Square Director Melissa Thierry said in a press release. “We are proud to partner with the Clarendon Alliance and Pacers Running to host an event that is both fun and educational, and that reflects our shared commitment to the health and vitality of this neighborhood.”
Registration is encouraged. Complimentary parking will be available in the Van Metre Parking Garage at 3351 Fairfax Drive.
Katie Taranto is a reporter at Local News Now, primarily covering business, public safety and the city of Falls Church. She graduated from the University of Missouri in 2024, where she previously covered K-12 education at The Columbia Missourian. She is originally from Macungie, Pennsylvania.
