After a long work week, take a load off and enjoy some time in nature at Frying Pan Park. This Herndon favorite is unique from most community parks because it operates a bit more like a farm, complete with cows, pigs, horses, and many other animals. Take a hay ride with the little ones to get a full look at the park’s scenic grounds, and then stop in for a visit with the newborn calves or their much larger parents.

Frying Pan Park contains a large playground with colorful sliding boards, swing sets, and jungle gyms for the kids to climb on, and adults will enjoy relaxing nearby on a bench under a shady tree. There is even a carousel that visitors of all ages love.

Before visiting, check the Frying Pan Park website to see what types of events are coming up; the bustling park often hosts puppet shows, concert series, and other free events for Herndon area residents.

Frying Pan Park
2709 W Ox Road
Herndon, VA 20171
(703) 437-9101
www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fpp

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr Sam Howzit

Amphora Diner Deluxe is a 24-hour eatery in Herndon that fills a much-needed gap in the area’s restaurant scene. Whether you’re looking for a great place for breakfast with the family or a slice of pie at 2 a.m., this friendly, welcoming eatery is always open to meet your cravings.

Inside, the restaurant is furnished with bright blue leather booths, retro light fixtures, and a glass bakery case that’s always filled with sweet treats. The menu at Amphora Diner includes classic American breakfast platters filled with French toast, eggs Benedict, and custom omelets, and once the clock strikes noon (or somewhere around then), it switches over to include hearty sandwiches, salads, and homestyle dinner entrees. There are always fresh-baked pies and breads from the bakery, and the bottomless cups of coffee make this a great place to chat with friends until the wee hours of the morning.

Amphora Diner Deluxe
1151 Elden St
Herndon, VA 20170
(703) 925-0900
www.amphoragroup.com

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr avlxyz

Just because you’re throwing a holiday party at home doesn’t mean that it has to be plain and casual. Add a bit of class to this year’s soiree by serving elegant appetizers that are just as artistic as they are tasty. Here are three great ideas that are so delicious, your guests will think you had the party catered.

Baked Prosciutto and Brie with Apple Butter [Cooking Channel TV]
The salty taste of prosciutto, the gooey texture of brie, and the sweet tang of apple butter all mingle seamlessly in these appetizer toasts. Best of all, there’s no cooking involved in the preparation, so you can throw these together right before your guests arrive.

Spinach and Goat Cheese Tartlets [Food Network]
Phyllo dough is a very popular base for many types of appetizers because it’s so versatile and easy to work with, and these tartlets are a great example. The dough forms a small cup that’s filled with goat cheese, spinach, and a number of herbs and spices that’s perfectly light and cheesy.

Mexican Shrimp Cocktail [My Recipes]
Instead of the usual creamy shrimp dip, make this cool, refreshing alternative with an adventurous Mexican fare flavor. Serve it with tortilla chips and a freshly ground pepper garnish.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/scaredykat