Aquatics
Learn to Swim, Free Swim Evaluations
There are individual registration periods before each swim lesson session. Registration for June classes is open May 7-17. 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, May 14, and Wednesday, May 15, to provide free swim evaluations. Classes/evaluations held at the James City County Recreation Center. Call 757-259-4185 for more information.
American Red Cross Lifeguard Re-Certification • Ages 15+
Saturday, May 4, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$60; $55 for JC/W residents
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. 105750-A
American Red Cross Lifeguard Training Course • Ages 15+
Six-day session at James City County Recreation Center:
- Friday, May 10, 4-6 p.m.
- Saturday, May 11, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Monday-Thursday, May 13-16, 4-9 p.m.
$210; $205 for JC/W residents
Includes First Aid and CPR certification. Must attend and pass a swim test (held first day of class): 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 2 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. Must turn age 15 by last class. Classes held at the James City County Recreation Center and Eastern State Hospital. Class meets at the James City County Recreation Center on the first day. 105710-A
Art Classes
Paint Your Pet • Ages 16+
Friday, May 3, 5-8 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$60; $55 for JC/W residents; 205570-A
Create your very own acrylic masterpiece of your furry friend! You’ll receive step-by-step instructions–no experience needed. Following payment, please email a high resolution photo of your pet to artfullywilliamsburg@gmail.com by April 26.
Before/After School, Camps
REC Connect Summer Camp
The REC Connect Summer Camp priority registration deadline is May 3. These full day camps run June 17-Aug. 23, 7 a.m.-6 p.m., at 5 elementary schools: Clara Byrd Baker, J. Blaine Blayton, Laurel Lane, Matoaka and Stonehouse); and one middle school: James Blair. Registrations accepted after the deadline on a space available basis. The REC Connect program is open to youth ages 5-14, enrolled in grades K-8. One registration packet may be used for both the Before & After School 2019-2020 and Summer Camp 2019 programs. Registrations accepted on a first-come, first-served basis according to postmark date and space availability. Registration forms and program information is available online and at the Recreation Centers, Freedom Park Interpretive Center and Satellite Services Office in Toano. 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. Check out the Spring/Summer 2019 Activity Brochure for the complete offering of summer camps!
Health/Wellness
Learn to Row • All ages Free!
Saturday, May 4, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at James City County Recreation Center
Have you ever wanted to try what many call one of the most efficient forms of exercise? Have you ever wanted to learn the proper technique of rowing? Now is your chance! Join us for a free introduction to Indoor Rowing. We’ll focus on proper rowing techniques using our indoor rowing machines(ergs). Unlike most activities, rowing incorporates the use of your legs, core and upper body. We'll focus step-by-step on proper form so that you can lean and appreciate this complete full-body, low impact, lifelong exercise. 305880-A
Fit Mama - Stroller Fit • All ages
Tuesdays, May 7-May 28, 9:30-10:30 a.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$10/day; $8 for JC/W residents, 305550-A
$35/4-pack; $30 for JC/W residents, 305550-B
Want to get out of the house, do something fun, active and healthy for yourself and your child and meet an amazing group of 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. Call 757-259-4176 for more information.
Presentations, Workshops & Trainings
Community CPR • Ages 12+
Saturday, May 18, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$80; $75 for JC/W residents
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 the American Red Cross. Call 757-259-4176 for more information. 305801-A
Nutrition for Heart Health • Ages 12+ Free!
Tuesday, May 21, 11 a.m.-noon at James City County Recreation Center
Learn about heart health nutrition! For anyone diagnosed with cardiac disease or those just looking to improve their diet, come discover the latest on reducing the risk of cardiac disease through proper nutrition–everything from understanding the difference between cholesterol and fats to reading food labels. 305652-A
Stroke Awareness & Blood Pressure Check • Ages 14+ Free!
Saturday, May 11, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at James City County Recreation Center
A stroke is an emergency and every minute counts! Act F.A.S.T! Learn the risk factors and what to do if you suspect someone is having a stroke! Blood pressure checks by registered nurses. No registration required. Call 757-259-4176 for more information.
Meditation 101 • Ages 16+
Wednesday, May 1, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$8; $5 for JC/W residents
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 aid 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. Call 757-259-4176 for more information. 305620-A
Spinal Injury Avoidance & Postural Improvement Workshop • Ages 18+ Free!
Wednesdays, May 8-22, 10:30-11:30 a.m. at James City County Recreation Center
Back pain? Want to prevent spinal injury? In this 3-week workshop, we’ll focus on injury prevention and a 10-minute-a-day exercise program to improve balance, alignment and movement. 15 people max. Presenter: Dr. Daniel Carlson of The Spine Center of Williamsburg. 305670-A
Yoga
Kids Storybook Yoga • Ages 4-7
Thursdays, May 2-30, 5:30-6 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$10/day; $7 for JC/W residents
$30/5-pack; $25 for JC/W residents
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. Thursdays monthly. YoKID certified instructor. Call 757-259-4176 for more information.
Youth Yoga • Ages 8-13
Thursdays, May 2-30, 6-6:45 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$13/day; $10 for JC/W residents
$35/5-pack; $30 for JC/W residents
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. YoKID certified instructor. Call 757-259-4176 for more information.
Functional Yoga Workshop • Ages 14+
Register for all 4 sessions and save!
Thursdays, May 9-30, 6:30-8 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$35/all 4 sessions; $30 for JC/W residents, 305664-A
Individual Sessions:
- Thursday, May 9, Yoga Poses: 6:30-8 p.m., $15; $10 for JC/W residents, 305664-B
- Thursday, May 16, Breath: 6:30-8 p.m., $15; $10 for JC/W residents, 305664-C
- Thursday, May 23, Mindfulness: 6:30-8 p.m., $15; $10 for JC/W residents, 305664-D
- Thursday, May 30, Myofascial Release: 6:30-8 p.m., $15; $10 for JC/W residents, 305664-E
In this 4-week program, we’ll focus on techniques in Yoga that you can use everyday to achieve 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 1, 2, 3 or all 4 sessions.
Yoga for Stress Relief • Ages 14+ Free!
Tuesday, May 21, 6-7:30 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
Suitable for all levels and very beneficial for those who are new to yoga or want to relieve stress and anxiety. It is a gentle class that will ease you through asanas (postures) and a guided relaxation at the end. Time to catch your breath and create a space in your mind and body during this practice. 305669-A
Yoga for Athletes • Ages 14+
Wednesdays, May 29-June 26, 6-7 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
$40; $35 for JC/W residents
This 5-week workshop is open to all levels of experience in yoga. This is a recovery class designed for athletes of all levels looking to stretch and relax their muscles to help improve their performance and reduce risk of injury. 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! Call 757-259-4176 for more information. 305668-A
Therapeutic Recreation
Sensory Friendly Pool Party • All ages Free!
Saturday, May 11, 6:30-8 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
Splash, yell, float and enjoy the James City County Recreation 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
Ooey, Gooey, Fun-Sensory Play • Ages 5-22 Free!
Wednesday, May 22, 6:30-8 p.m. at James City County Recreation Center
Do you like to play with slime? Have you ever painted with spaghetti? Join us for fun evenings full of “yucky,” messy activities. Snacks and materials provided. Bring a messy shirt. Preregistration is appreciated. 903120-C
Yoga • Ages 13+ with disabilities Free!
Tuesday, May 28, 7-9 p.m. at 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 Yoga, any upcoming events or to become an Arc member, call 757-229-3535 or visit thearcgw.org.
Day Support Program • Ages 18+ with disabilities
Tuesdays-Fridays weekly, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at 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 757-229-5353.
Outdoors
Williamsburg Paddles • Ages 16+ Free!
Monday, May 6, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at James City County Marina
Kayak historic Powhatan Creek beside Jamestown Island to view and learn about birds and wildlife native to our area. Kayaks provided, and trips are guided by James River Association. Registration required. For more information and to register, visit the James River Association or email jbrunkow@jrava.org.
Learn-and-Grow Series, “Weed” is Not Necessarily a Four-Letter Word • Ages 16+ Free!
Saturday, May 18, 10-11:30 a.m. at Freedom Park Interpretive Center
There’s more to weeds than you think! Although some weeds plague us, there are some that delight us with relatively good behavior and that are actually important to the biodiversity of our landscape. Learn about the white-flowered Southern Bluets and more from Donna M.E. Ware, noted author and former curator of the William & Mary Herbarium, and founding member of the Williamsburg Botanical Garden and the John Clayton Chapter of the Virginia Native Plant Society. Offered in partnership with the Williamsburg Botanical Garden; a $5 donation is suggested to help the Garden grow. Visit the Williamsburg Botanical Garden for details and registration.
Explore Powhatan Creek By Canoe • Ages 16+ Free!
Monday, May 20, 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway/James City County Marina
Join the James River Association (JRA) for a guided tour of Powhatan Creek by canoe to learn about the natural and historic resources of Powhatan Creek and James River. Canoes, paddles and personal flotation devices provided. Depending on the tides, the paddle will start at the James City County Marina or Powhatan Creek Park. This departure information will be listed on your JRA registration. A shuttle will be provided to return patrons to their vehicles. Visit the James River Association to register.
Forest Explorer Fridays: Animal Rescue • All ages Free!
Friday, May 17, 6-7:30 p.m. at Freedom Park
People often find animals who have been injured. What should you do? Come find out from an expert. Join us on the third Friday of each month to explore the plants and animals of Freedom Park! Youth under age 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
Special Events
Movie Nights • Free!
Friday, May 3, 6-8 p.m. at Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Scheduled feature: Smallfoot (PG). 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.
Pedal the Parkway • All ages Free!
Saturday, May 4, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Colonial Parkway
Enjoy a car-free Colonial Parkway! Ride, walk or run the 8-mile stretch of the Colonial Parkway between Williamsburg and Jamestown. This event is non-competitive; start at your own time, pedal at your own pace and ride as much (or as little) as you like. A rest stop is provided at the Archer’s Hope overlook at the mid-point of the ride. Free and open to all, this event is great for young families and athletes with special needs. Start in Williamsburg (Newport Avenue) or Jamestown (Jamestown Settlement). Visit BikeWalk Williamsburg for more information.
State Park Passport Tour • Ages 8+
Tuesday, May 7, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the James City County Recreation Center
$15; $10 for JC/W residents
Join us for a tour of some of our Virginia State Parks! Each trip will highlight a unique activity, excursion or program specific to that park. This month, we'll head to False Cape for the Back Bay tram ride and ship wreck historical hike. Trips are open to patrons ages 8 and older (16 and younger must be accompanied by adult) and are available first come, first served. Preregistration is required at least one week in advance of trip date. Fees include transportation to and from trip destination and all park admissions, amenities and excursion fees. Patrons are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch and any extra snacks and drinks that you may need throughout the day. Upcoming trips include Belle Isle geocaching and oyster gardens on June 12; Chippokes tram tour and fossil beach on Aug. 9; and biking through the swamps at First Landing on Sept. 7. In the event of inclement weather, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232. Call 757-259-5355 for more information.
Family Fun Fest • All ages
Saturday, May 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. at Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Admission: $5/car (cash or check only)
Enjoy petting animals, hands-on activities, inflatable rides, family fun with music and contests too! Featured: "Toxic Meltdown" by Knockerball Hampton Roads, touch-a-truck and pony rides with the teeny tiny petting zoo (additional fee), roaming characters (from 12:30-1:30 p.m. and 2-3 p.m.), the community showcase with performances by local groups and dance performances plus face painting, balloon animals, health and wellness activities, arts and crafts activity stations and moonwalks. Register for the fun run and stop by the “Good for You Zone” and see why being healthy can lead to loads of fun. Grab some lunch provided by our food vendors (additional fee) and visit all of our local craft and business vendors. Weather permitting; in the event of inclement weather, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232. Call 757-259-5353 for more information. 804300-B
Movies Under the Stars • All ages Free!
Friday, May 24, 8:30-10:30 p.m. at Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Scheduled feature: Mary Poppins Returns. 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. Movies subject to change. Weather permitting.
Jamestown Jams Concert Series • All ages Free!
Friday, May 31, 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Jamestown Beach Event Park
Come and enjoy free live music during Jamestown Jams on select Fridays at Jamestown Beach Event Park. Assorted beer, wine and food are available for purchase. Only service animals are permitted. Bring your own chair or blanket; snacks, picnics and non-alcoholic beverages are also permitted. Cornhole and spikeball tournaments will take place on select dates. For more event details, visit explorejccva.com. Weather permitting.
Sports/Gaming
Teen Tournaments • Boys and girls ages 12-19 Free!
Thursdays, 4-6 p.m. at 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. Call 757-887-5810 for more information.
Spring Adult Dodgeball League • Ages 18+
Tuesdays, beginning May 21, 6-8 p.m. at James Blair Middle School
$150 per team
Grab some friends, sweatbands and your best dodging, diving and ducking moves. Teams will play a best of five game set each night to determine a winner for that week of play. Game schedule based on the number of teams who commit to sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov by May 14. Teams will play against opposing teams once in the regular season and then a playoff tournament will determine the overall league champion. 505080-A
For the complete list of Parks & Recreation programs and events or 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