Founder’s Day Celebrates Past, Future of Reston With Events for Young and Old

Reston’s roots and its future were celebrated Saturday during Founder’s Day, marking the 53rd anniversary of the community.

From the art walk to the crafts, food and music, there is a lot to like about Founder’s Day, said Raba Letteri.

“This is like a tradition for us,” said Letteri, who was attending along with her husband, Paul, and sons Joseph and Aaron. “Every year, we go do the 5K and then we come here for the event … and to support the businesses.”

Those who were at Lake Anne Plaza on Saturday had a lot of activities from which to choose. The opening of Kiln & Co. was a big hit with many children and adults, all of whom were able to enjoy free custard. Kids including little Leila (pictured) and her brother Emory enjoyed painting their very own ice cream bowls — after their faces had been painted by the artist outside on the plaza.

Kiln & Co. wasn’t the only business with special goings-on Saturday, as all of the plaza’s storefronts were bustling with activity and special offers for visitors. Grown-ups also were able to enjoy a public art tour, films, book signings and more as they learned more about Reston during the day.

Joseph Letteri, a senior at South Lakes High School, said he’s been coming to Founder’s Day with his parents as long as he could remember and he’s always had a good time. He said he respects what Reston’s founder, Bob Simon, had in mind when he created the community.

“[Reston] is very unique,” Joseph said. “From the very start, Reston accepted all different types of backgrounds.”

The annual Founder’s Day celebration is presented by the Reston Historic Trust with support from Reston Community Center, and it is co-sponsored by Reston Association and Public Art Reston.