A weekend of events will take on Lake Anne Plaza in honor of International Women’s Day (March 8).

The events aim to raise awareness and celebrate the achievement of the women who helped shape Lake Anne Plaza, according to Rachel Piering, who shared details about the celebration to Reston Now. Women own and operate three-fourths of the businesses on the plaza, Piering said.

A free reception on Friday (March 8) at Reston Community Center’s Jo Ann Rose Gallery (1609 Washington Plaza) kicks off the first Annual International Women’s Day Celebration with a gallery reception and panel discussion starting at 7:30 p.m.

Small Change Consignment Owner Susann Gerstein, Reston Used Book Store Owner Susan Burwell and former Lake Anne Nursery and Kindergarten Director Ann Potts will join Linda Fuller, who used to own the Lake Anne Florist, for the panel.

Before the panel begins at 8:14 p.m., attendees can view the gallery’s photography exhibit by local photographer Charlotte Geary and vintage photos from the Reston Historic Trust and Museum.

Sales of limited edition commemorative posters will benefit Shelter House, a non-profit organization that provides crisis intervention, safe housing and supportive services to homeless families and victims of domestic violence.

Throughout the weekend, locals will be able to enjoy several musical performances, art exhibitions, book signings and special promotions for shops and eateries, Piering said. The International Women’s Day Celebration is provided by the Lake Anne Merchants and Professionals Committee.

Businesses participating in International Women’s Day include:

• Chesapeake Chocolates
• Kalypso’s Sports Tavern
• Lake Anne Coffee House and Wine Bar
• Lake Anne Brew House
• Reston Historic Trust and Museum
• Reston’s Used Book Shop
• Reston Art Gallery and Studios
• Small Change Consignment

On Saturday (March 9) the New Trail Cycling Studio will hold a women-only ride on from 9:30-10:20 a.m. to help raise money for the Reston Runners’ “Seize the Day Women’s 5K” training program and race. Tickets are $20.

“Proceeds are going toward creating scholarships for local underprivileged women to train for and run their first 5k,” Liz Kamp, the owner of New Trail Cycling Studio, told Reston Now, adding that Reston Runner’s Women’s Training Program will help the women prepare for the race.

Image via Rachel Piering