As the impacts of COVID-19 continue to be felt, we ask for your patience, flexibility and support. We depend on you, our patrons, to follow safety and social distancing guidelines as regularly released by the Governor of Virginia, the Virginia Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
What’s New…James City County Parks & Recreation has launched a new registration system – PerfecMind! Registration for programs, events and activities is quick, simple and efficient! To get started, visit our homepage at jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation and look for the PerfectMind logo!
October Events
Arts & Special Interest
DIY Arts & Crafts • Ages 5-9 NEW!
Thursdays, Oct. 29-Nov. 19, 4:30-6 p.m., $30
James City County Recreation Center
Make art masterpieces out of common household items, recyclables and other unique objects! We'll use our imagination for "do-it-yourself" arts & crafts during this fun-filled hands-on class! Dress for mess. No previous experience needed. Class fee includes all supplies. Instructor: Mary Griffith.
Kids Virtual Trivia Night • Ages 6-12 FREE!
Thursday, Oct. 22, 7-8 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
Are you looking for something fun and educational to do with the kids? Join Parks & Recreation for a FREE virtual kids’ trivia night! Up to 20 teams will compete in a five-round trivia competition featuring the following categories - animals, movie characters, songs & music, general knowledge and science. Questions geared toward children ages 6-12; a parent or guardian is required to participate. Register by Oct. 19 to receive full event details and a Zoom meeting invite.
Conversational Spanish for Kids • Ages 7-12 NEW! FREE!
Fridays, Oct. 16-Dec. 11 (no class Nov. 27), 12-12:45 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
"¡Hola! ¿Cómo estás? Me llamo John y tu?" Begin learning conversational Spanish from home with weekly lessons, activities and songs. You’ll learn basic phrases, numbers, colors and more! Class conducted via Zoom. Register by Oct. 14 to receive the Zoom meeting link. Instructor: Paula Guerra.
Halloween Cupcake Decorating • Ages 7-13 NEW!
Friday, Oct. 30, 5-7 p.m., $25
James City County Recreation Center
Come have a spooky-fun time! Learn to use buttercream icing in Halloween colors and decorate themed cupcakes including pumpkins, tombstones, bats, ghosts and more! We’ll even use some edible glitter for extra fun. Please note any food allergies at time of registration. All attendees should bring an apron or dress accordingly and tie back long hair. Fee includes all supplies. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
Teen Entrepreneurs: Becoming Your Own Boss • Ages 12-18 NEW!
Wednesdays, Oct. 14-Nov. 18, 4-5 p.m., $15
Zoom Meeting
Register by Oct. 5. Do you have an idea to explore for a business? Does entrepreneurship excite you? Want to be your own boss? Interested in the #startuplife? If you answered yes to these questions - then this class series is for you! Let’s get down to business creating YOUR business! This six-week class series will be conducted via the Zoom application. Register by Monday, Oct. 5 to receive the Zoom meeting link – all registrants will be contacted before class start to pick-up materials. Class fee includes informational packet, special gift and completion certificate. Instructor: Mary Griffith.
Virtual Genealogy – Advanced • Ages 18+ NEW! FREE!
Tuesdays, Oct. 6-27, 5-6 p.m.
Zoom Meeting
Register by Oct. 5. So you’re working on your family genealogy but have reached a dead end…now what? We’ll investigate different research tools to advance your research using photo dating, land records, maiden name research, passenger list and Ancestry as a genealogical database. This class will be conducted via the Zoom application. Register by Monday, Oct. 5 to receive the Zoom meeting link. Instructor: Paula Guerra.
Before/After School - REC Connect
Williamsburg/James City County Public School students are participating in remote learning for the first nine weeks of the school year. In response, Parks & Recreation REC Connect is offering a full day consolidated program through Nov. 6 for grades K-5. The program is available Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at the consolidated sites of Laurel Lane, Matoaka and Norge Elementary Schools. Daily programming includes arts & crafts, gym/physical activity, games, outdoor play, healthy snacks and virtual learning time. Space is limited; first come, first served. Check our REC Connect webpage for fees, updates, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), Parent Orientation and COVID-19 Safety Measures. Please call our team at 757-259-5351 with any questions. Due to low registration numbers, we will not be operating a Middle School Teens On Point (T.O.P) school year program at this time.
Health/Wellness
Gait Analysis • Ages 10+ FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 24, 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.
Techniques of Meditation • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 7, 7-8 p.m.
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 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.
Yoga
Kids Yoga in the Park • Ages 5-8
Wednesdays, Oct. 7-28, 4:30-5 p.m., $30
Veterans Park
This 30-minute class offers your child a fun way to bring together imagination, creativity and movement! Yoga and nature go hand in hand. This socially distanced yoga class helps children contemplate meaningful messages such as gratitude, peace, self-love, respect and confidence. Your child will enjoy the many benefits of practicing yoga and mindfulness while experiencing the beautiful outdoors. YoKid certified instructor. Monthly four-week sessions. Try first class for free! Info: 757-259-4176.
Outdoor Youth Yoga • Ages 9-13
Wednesdays, Oct. 7-28, 5:15-6 p.m., $35
Veterans Park
A perfect complement to any athletic endeavor or a wonderful opportunity to plug-in to one’s self (or unplug) for just a few minutes among the breeze of the outdoors. These 45-minutes of strong and wonderful yoga flow under the trees will rejuvenate even the most stressed-out teen. Beginner-friendly, your child will learn techniques for relaxation, health and self-love in this rapidly changing world. Youth yoga increases strength and flexibility while helping them unwind, calm down, reduce stress and sleep better. YoKid certified instructor. Monthly 4-week sessions. Try first class for free! Info: 757-259-4176.
Yoga and the Trees • Ages 14+
Wednesdays, Oct. 7-21, 2-3 p.m., $28
Freedom Park
Join us for this full yoga practice at Freedom Park! Enjoy and deepen your practice among the beautiful trees. All levels of experience are welcome, and modifications will always be explained. Free the joints, free the tension in the body and mind, and enjoy the unification of your mind and body through a safe, energetic practice.
Intro to Yoga • Ages 14+
Wednesdays, Oct. 28-Nov. 18, 7-8:30 p.m., $35
James City County Recreation Center
If you’ve always wanted to step into a group yoga class, but haven’t, this four-week workshop is for you! We'll break down the poses, and you can ask as many questions as you need!
Inclusion/Therapeutic Recreation
Sensory Friendly Pool Party • All ages & abilities FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 17, 6:30-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Splash, Yell, Float and enjoy the JCCRC 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. Registration deadline is Oct. 12, noon.
Got Goo - Fun & Sticky Sensory Play! • All ages & abilities FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 28, 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. Social distancing guidelines will be followed and individual sensory bins will be provided for each participant who registers. Registration is required.
Outdoors Programs & Activities
Explore Powhatan Creek by Canoe • Ages 16+ FREE!
Monday, Oct. 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway
Join the James River Association for a guided tour of Powhatan Creek by canoe. Participants will learn about the natural and historic resources of Powhatan Creek and the James River. Canoes, paddles and life jackets provided. For more information and to register, call 757-856-1252, email ehinson@jrava.org, or visit jrava.org to register.
Migratory Birds of Powhatan Creek Paddle Trips • Ages 16+ FREE!
Sunday, Oct. 18, 8-10 a.m.
James City County Marina/Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway
Join the James River Association for a guided tour of Powhatan Creek, led by expert birders. Participants will learn about the natural and historic resources of Powhatan Creek and the James River with emphasis on the diverse migratory bird species found in the area. Kayaks, paddles and life jackets provided. For more information and to register, call 757-856-1252, email ehinson@jrava.org, or visit jrava.org.
Garden Preparation • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 10, 2-3 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Get a head start on your garden! Come out to Chickahominy Riverfront Park and learn what you can do in the fall to prepare your garden for the spring. Composting, organic soil preparation and a discussion on various plants will be included.
Forest Explorers Friday - Walk & Talk • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Oct. 16, 5:30-7 p.m.
Freedom Park
Join us on this Night Hike through Freedom Park! Our nature guide will lead children and their parents on a trip through the forest to learn about plants, wildlife, insects and anything else we may encounter! Weather permitting.
History of Jack-O-Lanterns & Pumpkin Painting • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Oct. 23, 5:30-7 p.m.
Freedom Park
Ever wondered why we carve pumpkins around Halloween and where that name - Jack-O-Lantern, came from? Come out and learn about the origins of this holiday tradition and paint your own pumpkin in Jack-O-Lantern style! Weather permitting.
Geocaching 101 • All Ages/Families
$20 minimum or $5/person for groups of 5+
Would you or your group like to learn the basics of geocaching? Learn about the world’s largest outdoor treasure hunt in a fun and unique setting. We’ll explore Williamsburg’s best geocache hot spots and learn the basics of how to create your own. Program fee will be $20 minimum or $5/person for groups of five or more. Sessions will be available on a first-come, first-served basis and will be available weekdays. To schedule a program for a group, family or individual, email sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or call 757-259-5355.
Trips
The Adventure Park at the Virginia Aquarium • Ages 8-16+ NEW!
Thursday, Oct. 29, 1-6:30 p.m.
Ages 8-13, $55; Ages 14-16, $65
James City County Recreation Center
Spend the day climbing through the canopy as Virginia Beach hosts one of Virginia’s most unique high ropes and climbing courses! Spend three hours in the canopy zip lining, rappelling and climbing while enjoying a summer sunset. The Adventure Park features 17 treetop trails, 27 zip lines and crossings and 258 platforms connected by fun and unique obstacles. No previous climbing experience needed and the course is ideal for any fitness level. Weather permitting.
Youth Kayaking Trips • Ages 13-17 NEW!
Ren’s Road Landing, Poquoson: Friday, Oct. 9, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $20
Huguenot Flatwater Park, Richmond: Friday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; $20
James City County Recreation Center
Take a break from virtual school to explore some of Virginia’s best local waterways. Preregistration is required at least ten days in advance of trip date. Trips are first-come, first-served. Fee includes transportation and paddle craft to and from trip destination and all amenity fees. Participants are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch and/or snacks and drinks that may be needed throughout the day. Meet in the James City County Recreation Center lobby at the time listed for your trip! Full trip details are available by contacting sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or 757-259-5355. All trips are weather and river condition permitting.
Special Events
Scarecrow Row • All Ages/Families NEW!
Saturday, Oct. 17*, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
$20/scarecrow (includes all supplies)
Jamestown Beach Event Park (event field)
Register by Oct. 9. Come out for this social distanced and FUN event making a scarecrow with your family. Make the biggest, the best, and maybe the only scarecrow in your neighborhood! Families must preregister for their scarecrow by Friday, Oct. 9. Fee includes all supplies including hay, clothes, paints, brushes and your space on the event field. Not able to make the event or prefer to make your scarecrow at home? No problem! Select the “At Home Kit” and we’ll package your supplies for pick-up only on Monday, Oct. 19, 4-6 p.m. at the park. *Weather permitting.
Sports
Multi-Sport Minis • Ages 3-5
Tuesdays, Oct. 27-Nov. 17, 5-5:45 p.m., $30
Lafayette High School
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!
Tot Shots • Ages 3-5
Tuesdays, Oct. 27-Nov. 17, 5:45-6:30 p.m., $30
Lafayette High School
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.
Jump Shots • Ages 6-8
Tuesdays, Oct. 27-Nov. 17, 6:30-7:15 p.m., $30
Lafayette High School
Time to up the game! This basketball course is designed to introduce players to team play and dynamics in addition to honing other fundamental and technical skills.
Pint-Sized Soccer Series • Ages 3-8
Thursdays, Oct. 29-Nov.19
$30/session
Quart’r Pint Soccer • Ages 3-4: 5-5:30 p.m.
Half Pint Soccer • Ages 4-5: 5:30-6:15 p.m.
Full Pint Soccer • Ages 6-8: 6:30-7:15 p.m.
Lafayette High School
This soccer series engages kids of all ages and helps them develop balance, movement and soccer skills as well as provide a positive sports environment. Parents are encouraged to participate in Quart’r Pint where the focus is on honing motor skills and introducing basic elements of soccer. Half Pint focuses on individual technical development and Full Pint is designed to hone those skills and introduce dynamic team play.
Virginia Legacy Recreational Soccer: School’s Out Camp! • Ages 6-12
Monday-Friday, Oct. 19-23, 1-4 p.m., $125
Lafayette High School
Revolving around soccer-related games, activities, trainings and competitions, camp includes instruction on the fundamentals of soccer and is designed to meet the needs of beginner, developmental, recreational and advanced soccer players. All participants receive a Legacy Camp shirt!
Fortnite Duos Tournament • Ages 12+ NEW! FREE!
Gameplay begins the week of Oct. 23
Register by Oct. 11,5 p.m. Calling all Fortnite gamers! Register now for the Fall 2020 Duos Double Elimination Fortnite Tournament - gameplay begins the week of Oct. 23. This tournament is double elimination which means if you lose once, you’re still in the running until you lose twice. Matches will feature “Fortnite Friday” rules with players teaming up as a duo against other teams for six weeks of gameplay. Teams will have one week to play their match up for that week and report scores into the website. Gameplay is available across the following platforms: Xbox, Playstation 4, Nintendo Switch and PC. For more information, email sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov. Register by Oct. 11 by visiting https://bit.ly/3frRNPX.
The Fall 2020 Destination Recreation Activity Brochure is now available! For the complete list of Parks & Recreation programs and events and registration information for all activities, please visit our website at jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or call 757-259-4200. Copies of the brochure can also be picked at the James City County Recreation Center, the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, Chickahominy Riverfront Park, the Satellite Services Office in Toano and at the James City County and Williamsburg libraries. For all outdoor classes and events, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 if inclement weather is in the forecast.
Also note: James City County has waived the 2.95% convenience fee on all credit and debit card transactions through Dec. 30, 2020.
Program Sites
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Highway
Freedom Park, 5537 Centerville Road
James City County Marina, 2054 Jamestown Road
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Road
Jamestown Beach Event Park, 2205 Jamestown Road
Lafayette High School, 4460 Longhill Road
Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway, 1831 Jamestown Road
Veterans Park (Kidsburg), 3793 Ironbound Road
Media Contact:
Veda McMullen, Senior Communications Coordinator
757-259-5415; veda.mcmullen@jamescitycountyva.gov