Fairfax County hardly needs fire to keep warm this summer, but Herndon hopes to bring people together over a symbolic flame nonetheless.
An 8-foot-tall metal sculpture dubbed the “Herndon Torch” will travel through the town this July and August to mark the Summer Olympics and forge community connections.
“The Herndon Torch is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of what makes our community unique and strong,” Kate Keifer, recreation supervisor for the Town of Herndon’s parks and recreation department, said in a press release.
The torch will stop at 12 to 15 locations between July 1 and August 9 as part of a new community initiative organized by the parks and recreation department.
“Much like the Olympic Torch, it symbolizes Herndon’s commitment to shared values, diversity, and healthy living,” the press release says.
The tour schedule has yet to be announced, but festivities will include a free community event with food, prizes and Olympic trivia on July 25, ahead of the opening ceremony for the Olympics in Paris.
“This project is a wonderful opportunity for everyone in Herndon to participate in something special,” Herndon Parks and Recreation Director Bob Williams said in the press release.
An event page for the Herndon Torch initiative encourages community members to share selfies with the torch and engage with “exciting summer activities and challenges.” The schedule of torch sites and additional events will be announced on that webpage.
The 2024 Summer Olympics run in Paris from July 26 to August 11. A number of Olympic athletes have had Northern Virginia connections over the years, including swimmer Torri Huske, who will return to Paris after a 2021 Olympic debut. Rower Claire Collins, who grew up in McLean, will also compete in her second games.
