Aquatics
Learn to Swim, Free Swim Evaluations
There are individual registration periods before each swim lesson session. Registration for October and November classes is open until Oct. 12. Registration is accepted at the James City County Recreation Center and online. 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, Oct. 9 and Wednesday, Oct. 10 to provide free swim evaluations. Classes/evaluations held at the James City County Recreation Center. Info: 757-259-4185.
Art Classes
Kidz Clay (ages 9-15)
Mondays, Oct. 22-Nov. 26 (no class Nov. 19), 4:15-5:15 p.m.
$45; $40 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Make a mess, make some art, and make your mark...in clay! We’ll hand build and explore the potter’s wheel. A variety of topics will be presented, so students may repeat the class. No experience needed. $15 materials fee due to instructor during first class. Work will be available for pick up after firing. Dress for mess! 210060-A
Art Through the 19th and 20th Centuries (ages 12+) New!
Thursdays, Oct. 25-Dec. 6 (no class Nov. 22), 10:30-11:45 a.m.
$110; $105 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Home-schooled students get introduced to a different artist each week. Spanning the 1800’s to the 21st Century, art history will be incorporated with hands-on art making in a variety of mediums. Materials include acrylic, watercolors, oil and chalk pastels and graphite. All supplies included. 210200-A
Date Night – Paint Night (ages 18+) New!
Friday, Oct. 26, 6-8 p.m.
$60; $55 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
You’re signing up for 2, paint with your partner or your BFF! Warm up with a fun Spin the Wheel of Picasso game and then your instructor will walk you through the steps of creating and painting these portraits in the colorful cubistic style of Pablo Picasso. You’ll use acrylic paint on a 16x20 canvas; all supplies included. Fee includes both participants. 210270-A
Before/After School Program
REC Connect
Need to sign up for the Before/After School 2018-2019 program? The REC Connect program is open to youth ages 5-14, enrolled in grades K-8. Registration forms and program information is available online and at the Recreation Centers, Freedom Park Interpretive Center and Satellite Services Office in Toano. Registrations accepted on a first-come, first-served basis according to postmark date and space availability. Weekly registration fees apply. For the complete list of fees and registration information, visit REC Connect or call the Hotline at 757-259-3170. Please allow up to 7 business days for processing. Discounts are available to any qualified resident based on total household gross income; please call 757-259-5414 for financial details.
Health/Wellness/Special Interest
Fit Mama – Stroller Fit (all ages)
Tuesdays 9:30-10:30 a.m.
$10/day; $8 for JC/W residents (310550-A)
$35 (4 pack); $30 for JC/W residents (310550-B)
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 post-natal workout for all levels. Jogging stroller not necessary. Bring water and a yoga mat or towel. For more information, call 757-259-4176.
Kids Storybook Yoga (ages 4-7)
Thursdays, 5-5:30 p.m.
$7/class; $5 for JC/W residents
$25 (5 pack); $22 for JC/W residents
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. KiYo certified instructor. To register, call 757-259-4200. For information, call 757-259-4176.
Youth Yoga (ages 8-13)
Thursdays, 5:30-6:15 p.m.
$8/class; $6 for JC/W residents
$28 (5 pack); $25 for JC/W residents
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. Youth yoga increases strength and flexibility while helping them unwind, calm down, reduce stress and sleep better. KiYo certified instructor. Register: 757-259-4200. Info: 757-259-4176.
Functional Yoga Workshop (ages 14+)
Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m.
$15/session; $10 for JC/W residents
Breath: Oct. 4 (309664-C)
Mindfulness: Oct. 11 (309664-D)
Myofascial Release: Oct. 18 (309664-E)
James City County Recreation Center
In this program, we’ll focus on techniques in Yoga that you can bring into your everyday practice for better health and well being. Whether you’re an athlete or recovering from surgery, there is something here for everyone. You’re welcome to sign up for one, two, or three 90-minute sessions. Info: 757-259-4176.
Yoga for the Runner and Triathlete (ages 14+)
Wednesdays, Oct. 17- Nov. 14, 2-2:45 p.m.
$35; $30 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
This 5-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 now! 310668-A
Group Fitness Classes (ages 14+)
Get in shape for fall! From Ageless Yoga to Zumba, you’ll find a class just for you at the James City County Recreation Center. Check out our full group fitness schedule for a complete list of the more than 60 classes offered weekly. Info: 757-259-4176.
Gait Analysis (all ages) Free!
Saturday, Oct. 6, 1:30-3:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
What could be more basic than walking and running? Local sports chiropractor Dr. Daniel Shaye of Performance Chiropractic will be performing free gait analysis. You may learn why your knee hurts, or your back, or your hip–you may even catch injuries before they happen! Please wear shorts and a tank type shirt for the best analysis. Call 757-259-4176 to schedule your appointment time.
Community CPR (ages 12+)
Saturday, Oct. 13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
$80; $75 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
This hands-on skills training class prepares you to respond to breathing and cardiac emergencies. Learn the skills and knowledge needed to provide care for victims of sudden cardiac arrest through the safe use of an automated external defibrillator (AED). Participants will also learn Adult CPR/AED, Child CPR/AED and Infant CPR/AED. Certified through American Red Cross. 310801-A. Info/register: 757-259-4176.
R.A.D. Basic Physical Defense (ages 14+) Free!
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Oct. 9-18, 6-8 p.m. and Saturday, Oct. 20, 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 course (5 days) for women begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance then progresses on to the basics of hands-on defense training. Classes are taught by certified R.A.D. instructors with the James City County Police Department. To register: 757-259-4200. 310210-A
Inclusion & Therapeutic Recreation
Sensory Friendly Movie Night (ages 3+)
Friday, Oct. 19, 6-8 p.m.
Ages 6+, $3 (905120-B)
Ages 5 & younger, Free! (905120-C)
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy a feature film with family and friends in a safe and accommodating environment. The lights will be turned down low and special sensory seating areas will be provided. Popcorn and snacks will be included. Preregistration is appreciated. Info: 757-259-5354.
Teensational Social: Fall Fun Day at Pumpkinville (ages 13-21 with disabilities)
Saturday, Oct. 6, noon-1:30 p.m., $5
Pumpkinville, 7691 Richmond Road in Toano
Meet us at Pumpkinville for an afternoon full of fun! Please bring a bagged lunch and $5. Socialize with peers and practice social skills through fun recreational activities and field trips in the community. No need to register, just come. Offered in collaboration with Capernaum. For more information and a complete event schedule, call Caitie Maloney at 757-784-6226 or email.
Indoor Sports Night (ages 13+ with disabilities) Free!
Tuesday, Oct. 16, 7-9 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Swing, Kick, Spike! Join the William & Mary baseball team for a full evening of sports and fun! Offered in collaboration with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg.
Yoga (ages 13+ with disabilities) Free!
Tuesday, Oct. 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 (ages 13+ with disabilities)
Tuesdays-Fridays weekly, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
The “Arc of Abilities” began in 2016 to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who do not have a Medicaid waiver. The Day Support Program provides continuing education, life skills and vocational training. In addition, clients are engaged in fitness, recreational and community service opportunities with peers, instructors and the community. Monthly tuition based on need. For information, call The Arc at 757-229-3535.
Outdoor and Nature Programs
Going Batty! (all ages) Free!
Friday, Oct. 5, 6-8 p.m.
Freedom Park Interpretive Center
Join us for a fun-filled evening with educational bat-themed activities for youth and adults! Learn about the many bats that live right in our backyards through hands-on presentations from the Historic Rivers Chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists. Members of the group will discuss bats in our area and the ongoing bat monitoring project that began in the summer of 2018. Event features:
- Family Hour (6-7 p.m. for all ages) with bat games, activities, crafts and more!
- Bat Monitoring Presentation (7-8 p.m. for ages 16+; other activities will be provided for younger children)
Forest Explorers Walk & Talk (all ages) Free!
Saturday, Oct. 6
Nature Program: Backyard Birds, 9-10 a.m.
Guided Walk, 10 a.m.-noon
Freedom Park
Join us for a nature program and guided walk on the new Living Forest Interpretive Trail! One of our expert nature guides will present the nature program 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.
Campfire Social (all ages) Free!
Saturdays, Oct. 6 & 20, 6-7 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Enjoy s’mores, activities, storytelling and more around the campfire overlooking the beautiful Gordon Creek.
Freedom Park Night Hike (all ages) Free!
Friday, Oct. 26, 6-7:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Come experience the sights and sounds of Freedom Park after dark! Join park staff on a guided nature walk through the park as the sun sets, and get a chance to see some of the nocturnal wildlife that roam the park!
Williamsburg Paddle (ages 16+) Free!
Monday, Oct. 1, 5-7 p.m.
James City County Marina
Kayak historic Powhatan Creek beside Jamestown Island. View and learn about birds and wildlife native to our area. Kayaks provided free, and trips are guided by James River Association. Registration required and there is a 16-person limit for the trip. For more information and to register, email jbrunkow@jrava.org.
One-Way Paddle down Powhatan Creek (ages 16+) Free! New!
Saturday, Oct. 6, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Location TBA based on high tide!
Join a James River Association guide for a leisurely paddle down Powhatan Creek, taking in the historic waterway by canoe! Guides will help orient you to the vessels, provide basic paddling instruction and provide interpretation of the ecology. James City County Parks & Recreation will provide a free shuttle back to your car after the experience. For more information and to register, or email Emily Cope at ecope@jrava.org.
ABC’s of Starting Pollinator Gardens (ages 16+) Free!
Thursday, Oct. 18, 6-7 p.m.
Freedom Park Interpretive Center
Would you like to see more birds, bees and butterflies in your yard? Don’t know where to start? Fall is the best time to plant perennials – join us at Freedom Park to learn more. Get ideas for trees, shrubs and perennials, which will have yor yard buzzing with activity next summer.
How to Grow Herbs (ages 16+)
Saturday, Oct. 20, 10-11:30 a.m.
Freedom Park Interpretive Center
Get recommendations for no-fail herbs, the best time to plant specific herbs outdoors and what not to do indoors through the winter. Offered in partnership with the Williamsburg Botanical Garden. Presenter: Briscoe White, co-owner of the Growers Exchange. A $5 donation to help the garden grow is appreciated. Visit our website for details/registration.
Be A Kid Again Camp: Bike, Kayak and Hike (ages 18+)
Monday-Thursday, Oct. 8-11, 9 a.m.-noon
$70; $65 for JC/W residents
James City County Marina
Like being outdoors? Discover what our County parks have to offer and join us for hiking, biking and kayaking in some of our most beautiful spots. Cap the week off on Thursday with a tour of the James River aboard the Jamestown Discovery Boat! Bikes and kayaks provided. 810510-A
Special Events
Movie Night: Hotel Transylvania 3 (2018, PG) Free!
Friday, Oct. 5, 6-8 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Bring a blanket/pillow and join us for family friendly movie nights held inside the multipurpose room. Popcorn and drinks provided. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. Movie subject to change. Stop by the front desk for a schedule of movies offered the first Friday of every month. Info: 757-887-5810.
Capital Color Ride (all ages)
Saturday, Oct. 6, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Ages 10+, $10/person; ages 9 & younger, Free!
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
You’ve heard of The Color Run™, but how about a color ride? Enjoy this family friendly biking event along a 15-mile stretch of the Virginia Capital Trail. Venture from Chickahominy Riverfront Park to the James City County Marina and back while encountering color stops, snacks, water and more at the rest stops. Registration includes lunch and a T-shirt, while supplies last. For additional information and registration forms, call 757-259-4200 or email sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov. Weather permitting. 410400-A
9th Annual Williamsburg Landing 5K for The Arc (all ages)
Saturday, Oct. 6, 7:30 a.m.
Williamsburg Landing, 5700 Williamsburg Landing Drive
Join us on the Williamsburg Landing campus to help support The Arc. All proceeds benefit The Arc of Greater Williamsburg’s mission to improve the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in our community. Minimum donation for pre-entries is $40/entrant. Registered entrants 10 & younger are Free! Register online at thearcgw.org. Race day registration and packet pickup begins at 7:30 a.m. Info: 757-229-3535.
Boo Bash at the Beach (all ages)
Saturday, Oct. 20, 1-4 p.m.
Admission: $5/car (cash or check only)
Jamestown Beach Event Park
Enjoy a day at the beach with a Halloween twist! Costumes welcome. Trick-or-Treating onsite for ages 12 and younger. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Also enjoy hands-on activities, pumpkin carving and decorating ($), first come, first served while supplies last. Event also features music, games, food for purchase and more! Weather permitting.
Skate Jam After Hours (all ages)
Friday, Oct. 26, 5-8 p.m.
$10/participant
Skate Park (next to James City County Recreation Center)
Check out the Skate Park in a whole different light! This glow-themed night will include a skate competition broken down into beginner, intermediate and advanced divisions where participants are judged on style, flow and difficulty of run. Warm ups begin at 5 p.m. and registration is required for admittance into the park. Preregistration is encouraged. 510251-A. Weather permitting.
Sports
Quart’r Pint Soccer (ages 2-3)
Saturdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 17, 8:30-9 a.m.
$45; $40 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
This parent play class engages toddlers and helps them to develop balance and movement, introduces basic soccer skills and provides both parent and child a positive sports environment. Fee includes child and parent; parent/guardian is required to stay onsite while class is being held. 510140-A
Half Pint Soccer (ages 4-5)
Saturdays, Oct. 13-Nov.17, 9-9:45 a.m.
$45; $40 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Technical skills including dribbling, passing and positioning are taught in this introduction to soccer. This class is about player development and building foundational skills. 510150-A
Full Pint Soccer (ages 6-9)
Saturdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 17, 10-10:45 a.m.
$45; $40 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
This course is designed to hone skills and introduce team play and dynamics. Both technical and tactical elements of the game are the focus in this class. 510160-A
Multi Sport Minis (ages 3-5)
Saturdays, Oct.13-Nov.17, 11-11:45 a.m.
$45; $40 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Bring your child and let them try our sports sampler! Children will be introduced to major sports including baseball, soccer, basketball and more. Each week introduces a new sport! 510050-A
Tot Shots (ages 3-5)
Saturdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3, 9-9:45 a.m.
$35; $30 for JC/W residents
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Time to lace up the basketball shoes for this introduction to basketball. Children will focus on individual skills and learn fundamental tactics and ball-handling skills. 510070-A
Jump Shots (ages 6-8)
Saturdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3, 10-10:45 a.m.
$35; $30 for JC/W residents
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Time to up the game! This course is designed to introduce players to team play and dynamics in addition to honing other fundamental, technical skills. 510080-A
Multi Sport Majors (ages 6-9) New!
Saturdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3, 11-11:45 a.m.
$35; $30 for JC/W residents
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Bring your child and let them try out sports sampler! This new class presents an opportunity for older children to be introduced to major sports including baseball, soccer, basketball and more. Each week introduces a new sport! 510060-A
Get Set! (ages 7-12)
Saturdays, Oct. 13-Nov. 3
Ages 7-9: 1-1:45 p.m. (510090-A)
Ages 10-12: 2-2:45 p.m. (510090-B)
$55; $50 for JC/W residents
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Bumps, sets and digs are the name of the game! Get oriented to the court, hone your skills and learn fundamental and technical skills from local Williamsburg Volleyball club coaches.
Gaming
Teen Tournaments (boys & 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.
For the complete list of Parks & Recreation programs and events and registration information for all activities, please visit our website 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.
Program locations: