If there's one thing that says summer in Prince William, Virginia, it's standing in the middle of a field of bright yellow sunflowers stretching as far as the eye can see. Every July and August, visitors from across the region make their way to Burnside Farms for one of the county's most anticipated seasonal events... the Summer of Sunflowers.
With more than 70 acres of blooming sunflowers, dozens of unique varieties, and plenty of opportunities to pick your own bouquet, it's the kind of summer tradition that's just as fun for first-time visitors as it is for returning guests. This year's season is currently to running through August 9th, 2026, with morning admission and the popular Sunflower Sunsets offered in the evenings.
Make it a Family Tradition
Looking for a family outing that gets everyone outside? Burnside Farms checks almost every box you could think of. The only thing they don't have is a waterpark. Sorry.
Kids will love wandering through the towering sunflower fields, picking their favorite blooms to take home, and enjoying the wide-open farm setting. Admission includes three pick-your-own sunflowers for guests ages six and older, with additional flowers available for purchase if you can't decide on just a few. And trust us, you're going to want to take more home.
To help beat the summer heat, the farm offers morning admission and closes during the hottest part of the day before reopening for evening hours. Weekend visitors can also enjoy food trucks during Sunflower Sunsets, making it easy to turn your visit into a full afternoon and evening adventure.
Before or after your visit, spend some time exploring the rest of Nokesville or nearby Gainesville. Grab lunch, cool off with a sweet treat, or continue your summer adventure by exploring more of Prince William County's parks, trails, and local attractions.
Calling All Instagram Lovers
Let's be honest, the sunflower fields are made for photos. I mean, how would you resist taking a photo of those rolling hills of yellow?
Whether you're updating your family album, snapping engagement pictures, celebrating a birthday, or simply looking for that perfect golden-hour shot to post to make all your friends go "OMG! Where is this???", Burnside Farms offers countless picture-perfect backdrops.
For photographers (or anyone chasing that dreamy summer glow), consider booking an evening Sunflower Sunset session. As the sun begins to set, the fields are filled with warm golden light that makes the blooms (and your photos) pop. Morning visits are another great option for softer light, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. These slots are typically the first to sell out, so better jump on the opportunity as soon as you can!
Don't forget a hat, comfortable shoes, and plenty of water. You'll be walking through working farm fields, so dress for a little sunshine and a little adventure. And tag us in your pics. We wanna see them! Duh.
Know Before You Go
We just threw a lot of information your way, but here are a few more tips before heading out:
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Purchase tickets online in advance. They are not sold at the gate.
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Tickets are timed, but once you arrive, you're welcome to enjoy the fields until the session ends.
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Bring your camera... And maybe an extra memory card. You'll need it.
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Check Burnside Farms' daily Field Report before your visit for bloom conditions, weather updates, and food truck schedules.
Whether you're planning a family day trip, a girls' outing, or simply looking for a reason to enjoy the outdoors, Burnside Farms is one of those summertime experiences that feels quintessentially Prince William, Virginia.
After all, summer only lasts so long but the memories (and the photos) will stick around long after the last sunflower blooms.