Aquatics
Learn to Swim, Free Swim Evaluations
There are individual registration periods before each swim lesson session. Registration for September/October classes is open until Sept. 20. Registration is accepted at the Recreation Centers and online. Having trouble deciding which swim level is appropriate for your child? Our certified Water Safety Instructor staff will be available from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 17 and Wednesday, Sept. 18 to provide free swim evaluations. Classes/evaluation held at the James City County Recreation Center. Call 757-259-4185 for more information.
Art
Kidz Clay • Ages 10-15
Thursdays, Sept. 12-Oct.10, 4:15-5:15 p.m.
$40
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 at first class (cash or check). Work will be available for pick up after firing. Dress for mess! 209060-A
REC Connect
Before & After School, Camps
Need to sign up for the fall Before & After School care? 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 2020 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.
Health/Wellness
Kids Storybook Yoga • Ages 4-7
Thursdays, 5:30-6 p.m.
$7/day
$25 (5 pack)
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. Call 757-259-4176 for more information.
Youth Yoga • Ages 8-13
Thursdays, 6-6:45 p.m.
$8/day
$30 (5 pack)
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. KiYo certified instructor. Info: 757-259-4176.
Stroke Awareness & Blood Pressure Check • Ages 14+ Free!
Saturday, Sept.14, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
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 RN’s. No registration required.
Prevention and Treatment of
Shoulder Injuries • Ages 18+ Free!
Wednesday, Sept.18, 6-7 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Mayo-clinic trained Dr. Paul McLendon, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in treating disorders of the shoulder at Riverside Health System, will discuss preventative measures related to the shoulder and what current treatment options are available. Join us for this educational 1-hour lecture! Registration required. Call 757-259-4176. 309667-A
Gait Analysis • All ages Free!
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m.-noon
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 time slot. 309668-A
Inclusion & Therapeutic Recreation
TOPSoccer • Ages 4+ with disabilities Free!
Saturdays beginning Sept.14
Warhill Sports Complex
The Outreach Program for Soccer is a community-based for fun youth soccer program for athletes with disabilities provided by The Virginia Legacy Soccer Club and in partnership with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg and OneChild. Players are grouped based on size, ability level and age. Contact The Virginia Legacy Soccer Club at 757-253-8572 to register or email director Alex Spirn at aspirn@valegacysoccer.com.
Buddy Ball • Ages 5+ with disabilities
Sundays, Sept. 8-Oct. 27, 2-3 p.m.
$20/player
Warhill Sports Complex
Two age groups: Age 5 through middle school; and high school through young adult. Buddy Baseball is provided in partnership with the Williamsburg Youth Baseball League. Players are assisted, 1-on-1, where appropriate by volunteer buddies who make it possible to adapt play to individual player needs. For details, call Joel Schwartz at 757-879-6222.
Ooey, Gooey, Fun-Sensory Play • Ages 5-22 with disabilities Free!
Wednesday, Sept. 25, 6:30-8 p.m.
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-A
Buddy Art • Ages 6+ with disabilities Free!
Saturdays, Sept.14-28 & Oct. 26-Nov. 2, 3-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
A variety of art activities are offered based on age, ability level and interests. Children are assigned a volunteer buddy to work with them 1-on-1. For more information, visit the Williamsburg Contemporary Art Center or contact buddy.art.kids@gmail.com or 757-879-4328. Sponsored by Williamsburg Contemporary Art Center in partnership with volunteers from William & Mary and James City County Parks & Recreation. Join any class date. 209090-A
Kickball Game • Ages 13+ with disabilities Free! New!
Tuesday, Sept.10, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex
Let’s play ball! Join us for a fun evening of activities, and of course, a game of kickball!
Baseball Clinic • Ages 13+ with disabilities Free!
Tuesday, Sept.17, 7-9 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex
Come out and enjoy an evening game of baseball with the William & Mary Baseball Team. Offered in collaboration with the Arc of Greater Williamsburg.
Teensational Social: 80’s Dance Party • Ages 13-21 with disabilities Free!
Saturday, Sept. 21, 6:30-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Moonwalk your way through the 80’s dance moves and fashions! Be sure to dress in your best 80’s gear as we enjoy snacks, music and a night with friends. Offered in collaboration with Capernaum. For more information and a complete event schedule, call Caitie Maloney at 757-784-6226 or email Caitie.Maloney@yahoo.com.
Yoga • Ages 13+ with disabilities Free!
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 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 18+ with disabilities
Tuesdays-Fridays weekly, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
The “Arc of Abilities” supports 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 Programs
Take Your Kid Fishing • Ages 5-12 Free!
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m.-noon
Little Creek Reservoir Park
Want to spend a fun day with your child fishing from the shores of Little Creek Reservoir Park? Let the park staff teach you and your child the fundamentals of this favorite pastime. All equipment provided.
Archery 101 • Ages 9-15
Saturdays, Sept. 28-Oct.19, 1-2 p.m.
$45
Warhill Sports Complex
Designed for beginner to intermediate ability. Learn the safe use and handling of a recurve bow in addition to proper range procedures. Equipment provided or bring your own (instructors will inspect for safety before approval for use during the session). Archery range is located behind baseball fields at Warhill Sports Complex. 809040-A
Archery for Adults • Ages 16+
Two sessions offered:
Tuesdays, Sept.10-Oct.1, 6:15-7:15 p.m., 809040-C
Saturdays, Sept. 28-Oct.19, 2-3 p.m., 809040-B
$45/session
Warhill Sports Complex
In this introduction to use, handling and shooting recurve bows, learn proper technique, tricks and focus on upper body strength. Equipment provided or bring your own (instructors will inspect for safety before approval for use during the session). Archery range is located behind baseball fields at Warhill Sports Complex.
Forest Explorers Walk & Talk: Skunks • All ages Free!
Friday, Sept. 20, 6-7:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Spotted or striped, skunks have many things in common, and a number of skunks call Freedom Park home. Come hear a short talk about skunks-the positives and what stinks! Then enjoy an evening walk along one of the park’s trails. Weather permitting.
Garden Learn-and-Grow Series: Stunning Sunflowers • Ages 18+
Saturday, Sept. 21, 10-11:30 a.m.
Freedom Park Interpretive Center
Learn about the botany and historic uses of sunflowers, and get tips for growing, cutting and arranging them for a stunning display. Offered by the Williamsburg Botanical Garden for home gardeners. Seating is limited. Register at www.bit.ly/growsep19 to guarantee a spot! Program is free, but donations at the door help the garden continue its mission.
Special Events
Harvest Festival & Scarecrow Stuffing • All ages
Saturday, Sept. 21, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Admission: $5/car (cash or check only); $20/scarecrow (includes all supplies)
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Come enjoy quality family time with various fall sights and activities at our annual Harvest Festival! Arts and crafts, food ($), games, pony rides ($), a petting zoo, inflatables and much, much more! Scarecrow stuffing ($) will be back again! Make the biggest, the best, and maybe the only scarecrow in your neighborhood! First-come, first- served while supplies last. Don’t forget your camera! Weather permitting.
James Riverfest • All ages Free!
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Jamestown Beach Event Park
Join us for free, fun and hands-on educational activities for the whole family! Presented in partnership with the James River Association, James Riverfest is a family environmental festival promoting protection of and recreation on the James River! *Weather permitting.
Black Settlement Presentation & Book Signing • All ages Free!
Saturday, Sept. 28, 3-4 p.m.
Freedom Park Interpretive Center
Join Col. Lafayette Jones Jr., a descendant of those that lived on the Free Black Settlement at Freedom Park for a presentation and book signing. You’ll experience 18th century life more than 60 years before the Emancipation Proclamation.
Gaming
Teen Tournaments • Boys and Girls, Ages 12-19 Free!
Wednesdays, 4-6 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Come out for weekly PS4 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. For information, call 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.
Program Sites