Learn to swim, stretch for yoga, defend in RAD, dig deep with archaeology, splash at the outdoor pools, peddle through the past plus catch a flick, sing a song and enjoy family and friends at our special events!
Aquatics
Learn to Swim, Free Swim Evaluations
There are individual registration periods before each swim lesson session. Registration for June classes is open May 31-June 9. Registration is accepted at the James City County Recreation Center and online at jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation. Having trouble deciding which swim level is appropriate for your child? Our certified Water Safety Instructor will be available 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 6 and Wednesday, June 7 and again on Tuesday, June 20 and Wednesday, June 21 to provide free swim evaluations. Info: 757-259-4185.
American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course (ages 15+)
Prerequisite Swim Test:
Friday, May 5, 4-6 p.m.
Training Course:
Saturday, May 6, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. & Monday-Thursday, May 8-11, 4-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
- Includes First Aid and CPR certification
- Must attend and pass a prerequisite swim test: 300-yard continuous swim (100 yards of front crawl, 100 yards of breaststroke and 100 yards of choice of front crawl or breaststroke). Retrieve a 10-pound brick from a depth of 7-8 feet and return 20 yards, keeping both hands on the brick at all times; face must remain out of the water. Tread water for two minutes keeping arms out of the water.
- Must attend every class to earn certification
- Failure to complete competency test does not guarantee a full refund
- Cell phone use is not permitted in class and can be grounds for dismissal
- Must be age 15 or older by the last day of class
- Classes held at the Recreation Center and Eastern State Hospital
- Class meets at the Recreation Center on the first day
$210; $205 for JC/W residents includes swim test, book and materials. 105710-A
American Red Cross Lifeguard Re-Certification (ages 15+)
Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
- Renew your Lifeguarding and CPR/AED for professional rescuers certifications
- Must successfully complete the prerequisite skills, practical skills, first aid skills and written tests
- Failure to complete all requirements does not guarantee a full refund
- Cell phone use is not permitted in class and can be grounds for dismissal
- Please bring current Lifeguard and CPR card for proof of certification
$60; $55 for JC/W residents. Course does not include materials. 105750-A
U.S. Masters Adult Swim Program: Triathletes (ages 18+)
Tuesdays/Thursdays, May 2-25, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
$80; $75 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Email USMS.org to join the program before enrolling. Must show current card to register. This class is for you if you crave technique to help improve the swimming portion of a triathlon and don’t want to feel less important (not the fastest pool swimmers nor competitive swimmers but only swim freestyle or come to practice a couple of days a week). 105600-A
U.S. Masters Adult Swim Program: Fitness Swimmers (ages 18+)
Tuesday/Thursday, May 2-25, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
$80; $75 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Email USMS.org to join program before enrolling. Must show current card to register. This class is for you if you’re a fitness swimmer who wants a coach to help you meet your fitness objectives…if you don’t understand the typical swimming language (such as repeat 100s, go on the next top, etc.)…and if you’re interested in competing and would do so with encouragement. 105600-B
Special Interest Classes
Therapeutic Drum Circle (all ages and abilities)
Saturday, May 27, 3-4 p.m.
$10; $5 for JC/W residents; ages 5 and younger Free!
Freedom Park
Sing, Dance and Drum! Play a musical instrument while interacting with others and enhancing creativity and self-esteem. Fun for all ages. Families are invited to bring their children as drumming can also improve fine and gross motor skills, and is a great way to connect and enjoy time together. Senior citizens also benefit from the joy of the circle. Info: 757-259-5354. 904200-C
Before/After School/Summer Programs
REC Connect
Need summer camp and before-and-after school programs for your child? Registration is underway! Parents, please plan ahead. The program is open to youth ages 5-14, enrolled in grades K-8. One registration packet may be used for both Summer Camp 2017 and the Before and After School 2017-18 programs. Registrations accepted on a first-come, first-served basis according to date received and space availability. Weekly registration fees apply. Forms can be returned by mail or dropped off at the James City County Recreation, Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, the Freedom Park Interpretive Center or the Satellite Services Office in Toano. Please allow up to seven business days for processing. Forms can be picked up at any of the drop off locations listed above or downloaded from jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation. For the complete list of fees and registration information, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or call the Hotline at 757-259-3170. Discounts are available to any qualified resident based on total household gross income; please call 757-259-5414 for financial details.
Health/Wellness
Fit Mama – Stroller Fit (all ages)
Tuesdays/Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
$13/day; $8 for JC/W residents, 305550-C
$65 (10 pack); $60 for JC/W residents, 305550-D
James City County Recreation Center
Want to get out of the house, do something fun, active and healthy for yourself and your child AND meet a group of amazing moms in your own town! Get a great 60 minutes of exercise using your own body weight, bands and balls as well as our outdoor walking trail! Class ends at the My Place Playground for your tots to play. Pre and postnatal workout for all levels. Jogging stroller not necessary. Bring water and a yoga mat or towel. Info: 757-259-4176.
Kids Storybook Yoga (ages 4-7)
Thursdays, 4:30-5 p.m.
$7/day; $5 for JC/W residents, 305502-C
$22 (5 pack); $20 for JC/W residents, 305501-C
James City County Recreation Center
This 30-minute class offers your child a fun way to bring together imagination, creativity and movement! While interacting with the book’s characters and plot, Storybook Yoga helps children contemplate meaningful messages such as gratitude, peace, self-love, respect and confidence. Certified KiYo instructor. Info: 757-259-4176.
Kids Yoga (ages 8-12)
Thursdays, 5:15-6 p.m.
$7/day; $5 for JC/W residents, 305502-D
$22/5 pack; $20 for JC/W residents, 305501-D
James City County Recreation Center
Inspire your kids to learn while they move! This 45-minute class helps your child learn techniques for relaxation, health and self-love in this hurry-up world. Kids yoga increases strength and flexibility while helping them unwind, calm down, reduce stress and sleep better. Certified KiYo instructor. Info: 757-259-4176.
Yoga for the Runner & Triathlete (ages 14+)
Wednesdays – May 10, May 17, May 24, May 31 & June 7, 2-3 p.m.
$30; $25 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
This five-week workshop is open to all levels of experience in yoga. We’ll promote active recovery and focus on stabilization and flexibility of the hips and legs, relieving spinal compression, and creating flexibility in the shoulders. Step up your training! Info: 757-259-4176. 305664-A
RAD Class (ages 14+) Free!
Tuesdays & Thursdays – May 16, May 18, May 23 & May 25, 10 a.m. – noon and Saturday, May 27, 9 a.m. – noon
James City County Recreation Center
The R.A.D. system (Rape Aggression Defense) is a program of realistic, self-defense tactics and techniques. This comprehensive, 12-hour course (6 days, 2 hours/day) for women begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance then progresses on to the basics of hands on defense training. Classes taught by certified R.A.D. instructors with the James City County Police Department. Info: 757-259-4176.
Indoor Pool – SUP Yoga (ages 16+)
Mondays, 12:30-1:30 p.m.
$20/day; $15 for JC/W residents, 305600-B
$54/5 pack; $49 for JC/W residents, 305550-B
James City County Recreation Center pool
Doing yoga on a paddleboard at an indoor pool!?! That’s something new! We have it, here at the Recreation Center! The paddleboards are anchored in the pool to secure your spot. Each hour session starts with stable poses to warm up the body and discover balance. You build on that foundation as the class and weeks progress. Info: 757-259-4176. Register online at jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or call 757-259-4200. Instructor: Paddle On of Williamsburg.
Meditation Practice (ages 16+)
Thursday, May 4, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
$5/person
James City County Recreation Center
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or brand new, all are welcomed to this open community meditation practice. We’ll explore different styles of meditation techniques as well as tools that aide the meditative process. You’ll be guided in and out of each session. Meditation can improve your physical, emotional and mental health and well-being. Info: 757-259-4176. 305620-A
Paddleboard Yoga at Gordon’s Creek (ages 16+)
Tuesdays - May 16, May 23 & May 30, 6:15-7:30 p.m.
Fridays – May 19 & May 26, 8:30-9:45 a.m.
$30/day; $25 for JC/W residents
Meet at the Chickahominy Riverfront Park Boathouse
The first five minutes of this 75-minute class is dedicated to teaching participants how to properly use the paddleboard and paddle. You’ll be guided through a 60-minute yoga sequence to challenge your core strength, balance, skills and help center your focus. Enjoy Savasana under the sun, listening to nature while floating on the water. Ability to swim required. Info: 757-259-4176. Register online at jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or call 757-259-4200. Instructor: Paddle On of Williamsburg.
Healthy Kids & Families (ages 16+) Free!
Sunday, May 21, 2-3 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
We all want to help our kids stay healthy naturally. In today’s world this includes protecting them from harmful toxins and petrochemicals which can challenge their immune systems. Come learn how to use plants to boost and protect your family. 305636-A
Inclusion
Therapeutic Drum Circle (all ages and abilities)
Saturday, May 27, 3-4 p.m.
$10; $5 for JC/W residents); ages 5 and younger Free!
Freedom Park
Sing, Dance and Drum! Play a musical instrument while interacting with others and enhancing creativity and self-esteem. Fun for all ages. Families are invited to bring their children as drumming can also improve fine and gross motor skills, and is a great way to connect and enjoy time together. Senior citizens also benefit from the joy of the circle. Info: 757-259-5354. 904200-C
Sensory Friendly Pool Party* (ages 3+ with disabilities & their families), New!
Saturday, May 6, 7-8:30 p.m.
$3/person (cash or check only); 5 & younger, Free!
James City County Recreation Center
Splash, Yell, Float and enjoy the Center pool after hours. We’ll turn the lights down and open the swim lanes so everyone can have as much fun as they want. Bring your own float and pool toys. Preregistration is appreciated. 905120-A
Mad Hatter Tea Party (ages 4+ with disabilities)
Saturday, May 13, 3-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
I’m late, I’m late! For a very important date! Dress up as your favorite Alice in Wonderland character, or simply dress up and join us for an afternoon of snacks, songs, games and tea. 904250-A
Yoga (ages 13+ with disabilities) Free!
Tuesday, May 30, 7-9 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Move through a series of postures to allow the body to become flexible and healthy in a state of deep relaxation. Offered in partnership with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg. For more information on Arc events or to become a member call 757-229-3535 or visit thearcgw.org.
Day Support Program
Tuesdays-Fridays weekly, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, 8901 Pocahontas Trail
Offers adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities an opportunity to receive educational, life skills and vocational training, as well as engage in social and recreational activities with their peers, instructors and the community. Info: call The Arc at 757-229-3535.
Outdoors
Forest Explorers Walk & Talk (all ages)
Saturday, May 6
Nature Program: Owls, 9-10 a.m.
Guided Walk: 10 a.m. – noon
Freedom Park
Join us on the first Saturday of every month for a nature program and guided walk on the new Living Forest Interpretive trail! One of our expert nature guides will present a nature program on a different topic each month, then lead children and their parents on a trip through the forest to learn about plants, wildlife, insects and anything else we may encounter! The nature program will take place at the Freedom Park Interpretive Center. The walks will begin at the Freedom Park playground, with a new walk starting every 30 minutes. Weather permitting.
Make a Pet Rock (ages 6+)
Saturday, May 27, 10-11 a.m.
Freedom Park
Pet Rocks rock! Come to the Botanical Garden and learn how to change an ordinary rock into something special. We’ll show you how to make a whimsical creation out of an ordinary rock. You may bring your own special rock or find one in our rock pile! A $5 donation to help the garden grow is appreciated.
Nature Musings & Missives (ages 18+) Free! New!
Sunday, May 7, 2-4 p.m.
Freedom Park
Do you enjoy the natural world, and express those feelings through written word or art? Visit the Freedom Park Interpretive Center on the first Sunday of every month to share your nature poetry, prose, artwork, photography or anything else that inspires you! Come to share, or just to listen! Light refreshments provided.
Adults in Archaeology! (ages 18+)
Dig Day - Saturday, May 13, 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.
$20; $15 for JC/W residents
Jamestown Beach Event Park
Help archaeologists discover hidden history! Dig on an actual site and learn about James City County’s buried past. Supervised by local archaeologist, bring hats, bottled water and a bag lunch. 805260-A
Wash Day - Saturday, May 20, 1-3 p.m.
$5
Freedom Park
Get hands-on cleaning and learn about recently excavated artifacts! What do they tell us? How are they used by archaeologists? 805260-B
Gardens with No Flowers (ages 18+)
Saturday, May 20, 10-11:30 a.m.
Freedom Park
Retired high school biology teacher, Master Gardener and John Clayton Native Plant Society member Helen Hamilton will suggest some plants that deer and rabbits won’t eat – ferns for a shade garden and mosses on pathways and in little gardens. In sunny areas, ornamental grasses add interesting shapes and colors to traditional perennial beds, and the shorter sedges can be placed in front of taller blooming plants. Most nurseries and garden centers offer many varieties of these alternative plants that add much interest to home landscapes. Info: email Helen at helen48@cox.net. A $5 donation to help the garden grow is appreciated.
Special Events
Pedaling the Past (ages 12+) New!
Speeding past interpretive signs and wondering their significance? Hop on your bike or one of ours for a guided tour of local historic sites and tales and tastes immersing you in the past! Helmets, water and snack included. In the event of inclement weather, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 for any changes in schedules.
Sunday, May 7, 10-11:45 a.m., $15; $10 for JC/W residents, 805721-A
Tour includes the James City County Marina, Jamestown Beach Event Park and other segments of the Virginia Capital Trail. Meet at the Marina.
Sunday, May 21, noon-1:45 p.m., $15; $10 for JC/W residents, 805721-B
Tour includes Freedom Park. Meet at the Interpretive Center.
Family Fun Fest
Saturday, May 20, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Admission: $5/car (cash or check only)
Enjoy petting animals, inflatable rides, hands-on activities, family entertainment with music and contests too! ‘Touch-a-Truck’ is back for all ages! Stop by the ‘Good for You Zone’ and see why being healthy can lead to loads of fun. Oh, and be sure to participate in the Fun Run! Grab some lunch provided by our food vendors and visit all of our local craft and business vendors! Offered in partnership with Colonial Roadrunners. In the event of inclement weather, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 for any changes in schedules.
Movies Under the Stars (all ages) Free!
Friday, May 26, 8:30 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Enjoy some of the great box office titles out under the sky! Bring lawn chairs, blankets and snacks. We’ll bring the stars. Children 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Scheduled Feature: Brave (PG); movies subject to change. In the event of inclement weather, please call the Activities Hotline at 259-3232 for any changes in schedules. Also scheduled: June 30, Storks (PG) and Sept. 1, Annie (2014) (PG).
Karaoke in the Park (all ages) Free!
Saturdays - May 27, July 1 & Sept. 2, 7-9 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Sing the night away while enjoying the park! All ages welcome; 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. In the event of inclement weather, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 for any changes in schedules.
Opening Day at the Outdoor Pools!
Saturday, May 27, noon-6 p.m.
Pool fees apply
Chickahominy Riverfront Park & Upper County Park
It’s time to kick off summer! Come out to one of our two outdoor pools to celebrate the start of the season. Door prizes given each hour between 1-4 p.m.
Sports/Athletics
Teen Tournaments (boys and girls ages 12-19) Free!
Thursdays, 4-6 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Come out for weekly Xbox game tournaments and competitive active game tournaments. These safe, free and fun nights challenge you to play in competitive tournaments against other gamers in your age group. Info: 757-887-5810.
Teens
Red Cross Babysitting Course (ages 12+)
Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
$75; $70 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Learn all the basics of babysitting – childcare, fire and home safety, and first aid – plus learn how to set up your business. Receive a babysitter’s textbook, babysitting certificate and first aid kit. Bring a bagged lunch. 605010-A
For the complete list of Parks & Recreation programs and events or registration information for all activities, please visit jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or call 757-259-4200 (unless otherwise noted). For outdoor events, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 if inclement weather is in the forecast.
JC/W = James City County/Williamsburg resident.