Vienna-area families looking for one last blowout before homework takes over can drop into the Old Firehouse Center's free Back to School Kickoff & Tailgate Party on Saturday, Aug. 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event is part of OFC IGNITE, a monthly themed family play series at the center on Chain Bridge Road in McLean, a short drive from Vienna. This edition lands five days after Fairfax County Public Schools students return to classrooms on Monday, Aug. 24, giving families a weekend celebration to mark the start of the school year.

According to the McLean Community Center's event calendar, the tailgate will feature ping pong, board games, arcade games, music, food, refreshments and access to the center's Sensory Room, a sensory-friendly play space that is also offered as a standalone experience at OFC.

Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No registration or fee is required.

The Old Firehouse Center, housed in McLean's converted fire station at 1440 Chain Bridge Rd., is a program of the McLean Community Center. Program manager Andrew Carter oversees year-round programming for students in grades 5 through 9, according to a Fairfax County profile of the center.

The Old Firehouse Center promoted the event on X on Aug. 17, describing it as a "tailgate-style fun kickoff event featuring activities for the whole family."

The center also hosts Open Game Nights every Wednesday from 6:30 to 9 p.m., featuring table tennis, bridge, Mah-jongg, arcade games and the sensory lab. The next session falls on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

Residents can check mcleancenter.org for the latest schedule updates.

Upcoming at OFC:

• Wednesday, Aug. 26 — Open Game Night, 6:30–9 p.m.
• Saturday, Aug. 29 — OFC IGNITE: Back to School Kickoff & Tailgate Party, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. (free)