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. 8. Classes are limited due to instructor availability. Registration is accepted at the James City County Recreation Center and online at https://www.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 Thursday, Sept. 2 and Tuesday, Sept. 7 to provide free swim evaluations. Classes/evaluations held at the James City County Recreation Center. Class schedules are available at the Recreation Center Front Desk and online at https://jamescitycountyva.gov/2673/Aquatics. Info: 757-259-4185.
We're Hiring, Lifeguards! • Ages 15+ FREE!
Lifeguards are needed to staff the James City County Recreation Center indoor pool. Applicants must be at least 16 years or older, have a current American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification with First Aid, CRP and AED training and complete a swim test. Appointments are not needed; drop-in on any of the following days, 5-7 p.m. at the James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Road:
Wednesday, Sept. 15
Wednesday, Oct. 20
Wednesday, Nov. 10
Wednesday, Dec. 22
For details including salary, benefits and swim test requirements, visit Lifeguards Wanted! For more information, please call 757-259-4185.
Arts & Special Interest Classes
PeeWee Painting At-Home Kit • Ages 3-8
Ongoing. $10/kit
Lett your kids get creative with this at-home kit they’re sure to enjoy. We’ll provide all the supplies – you provide the space! Kit includes 9” x 12” canvas (with pre-taped elements), paints, brushes, disposable apron and instruction sheet. Please select desired painting at the time of registration including “geometric shapes,” “first initial art” or “house and yard.” You’ll be contacted via email for scheduling your kit pick-up.
Kidz Clay • Ages 10-15
Thursdays, Sept. 9-Oct. 7, 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 presented, so students may repeat the class. No experience needed. $15 materials fee due to instructor at first class. Work available for pick up after firing. Dress for mess! Instructor: Dorothy Round.
Oil Painting • Ages 16+
Two Sessions:
Tuesdays, Sept. 7- Dec. 14 (no class Nov. 23), 1-3 p.m.
Wednesdays, Sept. 8-Dec. 15 (no class Nov. 24) 10 a.m.-noon
$130/session
James City County Recreation Center
Beginner and experienced painters welcome. Students receive individual instruction based on skill level. Join us to create your own masterpiece while making new friends. Students provide own supplies. For the list, call 757-220-3755 or email annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Pastels • Ages 16+
Wednesdays, Sept. 8-Dec. 15 (no class Nov. 24), 1-3 p.m.
$130
James City County Recreation Center
Learn how to use this versatile and fun medium to create portraits and landscapes. Students provide own supplies. For the list, call 757-220-3755 or email annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Acrylic Painting • Ages 16+
Thursdays, Sept. 9-Dec. 16 (no class Nov. 25), 1:30-3:30 p.m.
$130
James City County Recreation Center
Join us to create your own masterpiece while making new friends. If you've never picked up a brush or have some skills in acrylics, this class is for you. Students provide own supplies. For the list, contact 757-220-3755 or annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
At-Home Paint Night Kit • Ages 16+ NEW!
Ongoing. $15/kit
Do you love painting but would prefer to do it in the comfort of your own home? We have the solution for you! Purchase this at-home paint kit and be proud of your masterpiece. All supplies included – 9’ x 12” canvas, paints, brushes, disposable apron, tips on painting and pre-selected painting printout (Note: if needed, some pieces may be pre-sketched on your canvas for you). Please select desired painting at the time of registration including “fall leaves,” “boo spider” or “snowman. ” You’ll be contacted via email for scheduling your kit pick-up.
Virtual Genealogy – Beginners • Ages 16+ FREE! VIRTUAL!
Tuesdays, Sept. 14-Oct. 5, 5-6 p.m.
Have you ever wondered where your family came from? Or thought about taking an advertised DNA genealogy test? Learn how to get started and the resources available. This class is for beginners and not ideal for individuals who have already taken “Intermediate” or “Advanced.” Class conducted via the Zoom application. Register by Sept. 7 to receive the Zoom meeting link. Instructor: Paula Guerra.
Before/After School
REC Connect
REC Connect is accepting registrations for the Before & After School 2021-22 programs. Registration packets are available for download at REC Connect website or for pickup at the James City County Recreation Center or any payment site location.
Health & Wellness
Indoor Cycle 101 • Ages 14+ FREE!
Tuesday, Sept. 7, 5:30-6:15 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Indoor cycling classes can be overwhelming to jump into – music, seat settings, resistance level and to clip or not to clip. We’re here to help! Proper bike set-up can make or break your class experience and keep you injury-free. This intro class will teach you all you need to know to enter the “spin” world. Put things in full gear with our awesome tunes, control over resistance and speed and overall intensity. No bike experience necessary.
Learn to Row • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Sept. 11, 3-4 p.m.
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 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 learn and appreciate this complete full-body, low-impact, lifelong exercise.
Walk This Way: Williamsburg Walking Club • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Sept. 18, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Freedom Park Multiuse Trail 3
Being active is the secret to staying healthy, and walking is a great way to get moving! Let our walking coaches guide you through the trails of James City County. Whether you bring a friend, family or meet a new neighbor, you’ll have a blast while having a positive impact on your health. New trail location each month.
For the Love of Nature – Outdoor Mindfulness • Ages 14+
Wednesday, Sept. 29, 6-7 p.m.
$10
Freedom Park
Celebrate the love of being outdoors. Join us for this hybrid class in shifting your brain from activity to meditation. The first portion of this class is a vinyasa practice - to warm you up. The last 30 minutes are Yoga Nidra, to guide you through a detailed gentle approach to the practice with an emphasis on stabilization and active stretching.
Group Fitness Classes • Ages 14+
Get in shape for fall! From Yoga to HIIT training, 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.
Inclusion/Therapeutic Recreation
Got Goo? Fun & Sticky Sensory Play! • All Ages & Abilities
Wednesday, Sept. 29, 6:30-8 p.m.
$5/family
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 family who registers. Registration is required. Registration deadline is Sept. 22. For more information, please call 757-259-5354.
Baseball Clinic • Adults 18+ w/disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, Sept. 14, 7-9 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex
Come out and enjoy an evening game of baseball with the William and Mary Baseball Team in collaboration with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg.
10th Annual Williamsburg Landing 5K for The Arc • All Ages & Abilities
Saturday, Oct. 2 - registration & packet pickup begins at 7:30 a.m.
Minimum donation for pre-entries is $35/entrant by Sept. 1; $45/entrant after Sept. 1. Registered entrants 10 & younger are FREE!
Williamsburg Landing
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. Register online at thearcgw.org before Sept. 24 to receive a T-shirt. Williamsburg Landing, 5700 Williamsburg Landing Drive. Race day registration and packet pickup begins at 7:30 a.m.
Outdoor Programs
Forest Explorers Friday: Creeks & Waterways • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Sept. 17, 5:30-7 p.m.
Powhatan Creek Trail
Join us for this Walk & Talk nature program and guided walk. Crossing over a 696-foot long timber bridge provides a unique vantage point to explore the creeks and waterways that were integral to settling the region. Our guide presents a nature program then leads children and their parents on a trip through the forest to also learn about plants, wildlife, insects and anything else we may encounter! Meet at the Powhatan Creek Trail, 3131 Ironbound Road in the Clara Byrd Baker parking area).
Campfire Socials • All Ages FREE!
Two nights of fun!
Saturday, Sept. 18, 6-7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 25, 6-7 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Come celebrate fall with a good old-fashioned campfire gathering at Chickahominy Riverfront Park! Enjoy s’mores, activities, storytelling and more around the campfire overlooking beautiful Gordon Creek.
Archery • Ages 9-15
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 21-30, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
$50
Upper County Park
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 inspect for safety before approval for use during the session).
Rafting Tours • Ages 12+
Youth Trip • Ages 12-16: Saturday, Sept. 25, noon-6 p.m. $85
Adult Trip • Ages 17+: Monday, Sept. 6, noon-6 p.m., $75
James City County Recreation Center
Time to tackle class III-IV rapids in one of the country’s most unique urban rafting settings! Gear up for a river float like you’ve never experienced before! Riverside Outfitters rafting guides help navigate the mighty James from the James River Park System down to the Shockhoe Bottom. Youth trips require participants to weight at least 90-pounds and the trip includes supervision by Parks & Recreation staff. Adult trips are open to ages 17+. Transportation and rafting fees included. Full trip details are available by contacting sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or 757-259-5355.
All trips are weather and river conditions permitting.
Archery • Ages 16+
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 21-30, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
$50
Upper County Park
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 inspect for safety before approval for use during the session).
Special Events & Programs
Drool in the Pool
Saturday, Sept. 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
$10/dog
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
This popular dog swim day is eagerly anticipated each year! Pool passes for your dog will be available at the gate on Sept. 11. Music, refreshments and goodies featured! All proceeds benefit the animals of Heritage Humane Society. For more details, visit heritagehumanesociety.org.
Butterfly Festival • All Ages FREE!
Saturday & Sunday, Sept. 11-12
Freedom Park
This two-day event includes drive through pick-ups of craft bags for children, photo contests, Zoom speakers, self-guided Garden tours and the ever-popular Chrysalis Pyramid activity. The Williamsburg Botanical Garden is hosting the event in conjunction with James City County Parks & Recreation and is funded by the Green Spring Garden Club, Inc. Event times and details announced soon!
Splash on Friday • All Ages FREE!
Pumpkin Patch Night: Friday, Sept. 17, 6-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Come in and enjoy family time with us in the pool! Each month a different theme will be featured! Free swim area and an area for our Wibit inflatable obstacle course are available! Games and prizes included. Pick up your event flyer at the James City County Recreation Center. Non-swimmers are required to use a lifejacket, which are provided. Registration required.
Movies Under the Stars • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Sept. 17, 8 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 & younger must be accompanied by an adult. Scheduled feature: Raya and the last Dragon (PG); movies subject to change.
Scarecrow Row • All Ages & Families
Saturday, Sept. 18, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jamestown Beach Event Park (event field)
Onsite: $20/scarecrow (includes all supplies)
At Home Kit: $20
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, Sept. 10. Fee includes all supplies including hay, clothes, paints, brushes and your space on the event field. Not able to make the event date/time or prefer to make your scarecrow at home? No problem! Select the “at home kit” and we’ll package your supplies for pick-up on Monday, Sept. 20.
Sports
Tiny Tony Skate Camp • Ages 3-6 NEW!
Saturday, Sept. 11, 9-11 a.m.
$45
James City County Recreation Center Skate Park
Skate Camp for new skaters ages 3-6. Learn the basics of skateboarding, balance and maneuvering with a low camper to coach ratio. Every camper will receive a TSA Skate Camp T-shirt. Be sure to pack skateboard, pads and helmet as well as a snack and water! Instruction focuses on safety and basics, but we can accommodate more skilled skaters in that age group. We ask that parents stay on site with this age group. All campers also get free competitor entry in Sept. 25 skate contest for cash and prizes. For more info or questions, please email TSAproject@outlook.com. Weather permitting; rain date is Sept. 18.
Second Chance Skate Camp • Ages 6-14 NEW!
Saturday, Sept. 11, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
$60
James City County Recreation Center Skate Park
Learn the basics of skateboarding, or experienced riders can learn advanced techniques. Priority registration given to those who were waitlisted from the June Skate Camp. Every camper will receive a TSA Skate Camp T-shirt. Be sure to pack skateboard, pads and helmet as well as a snack and water! Instruction focuses on safety and features a beginner area for new skaters to grow skills together as well as breakouts for more advanced skaters. All campers also get free competitor entry in the Sept. 25 skate contest for cash and prizes. For more info or questions, please email TSAproject@outlook.com. Weather permitting; rain date Sept. 18.
Adult Pickleball Leagues • Ages 18+ NEW!
Play begins Oct. 4
Doubles/Mixed Doubles $40/team
Veterans Park
Registration closes Sept. 26
Ready to take your pickleball game to the next level? Sign up for gender doubles or mixed doubles and take on a new opponent weekly. Matches are played best two out of three games to 11 points. Only one partner is required to register and pay the team fee for both partners. Self-select into masters (4.0/4.5) or amateur (3.0/3.5) divisions. Matchups are emailed before the start of the season and teams are responsible for self-reporting scores to the league coordinator by the end of each week. Find a time to play your opponent during open play or during the reserved court times at Veterans Park. Play begins Oct. 4 and continues through six weeks of league play and then a playoff series. Spaces are limited to 12 teams per division.
Registration/Information:
Unless otherwise noted, please visit us online or call 757-259-4200 for more details and registration information. For the complete list of Parks & Recreation activities, programs and events, check out our Fall 2021 Activity Brochure! https://www.jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation. Thank you for your support and flexibility as we continue to ensure COVID compliance from the Governor, the VDH and the CDC.
Inclement Weather
Outdoor Events are weather permitting. Before heading out, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 any changes in schedules.
Program Sites
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Highway
Freedom Park, 5537 Centerville Road
James City County Recreation Center/Skate Park, 5301 Longhill Road
Jamestown Beach Event Park, 2205 Jamestown Road
Powhatan Creek Trail, 3131 Ironbound Road
Upper County Park, 180 Leisure Road in Toano
Veterans Park (Kidsburg), 3793 Ironbound Road
Warhill Sports Complex, 4900 Stadium Road
Williamsburg Landing, 5700 Williamsburg Landing Drive
Media Contact:
Veda McMullen, Senior Communications Specialist
757-259-5415; veda.mcmullen@jamescitycountyva.gov