Welcome fall with Boo Bash at the Beach, a free family night at the indoor pool plus a host of great onsite, outdoor and virtual activities and programs!
Aquatics
Learn to Swim, Free Swim Evaluations
Registration for October and November classes is Oct. 11-20. Class sizes are limited due to instructor availability. To ensure proper placement in a class, a previous class completion card or swim evaluation card is required to register for any next level class. Registration is accepted at the James City County Recreation Center only; online registration is not accepted at this time. 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, Oct. 14 and Tuesday, Oct.19 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, 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
Let 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.
Conversational Spanish for Kids • Ages 7-12 FREE! VIRTUTAL!
Mondays, Oct. 4-Nov. 8, 5:15-6 p.m.
Learn new vocabulary words to begin your journey into the Spanish language. We’ll learn terms for weather, months, days, animals, clothes, y mucho más! Each week is something new with exciting activities! Class conducted via the Zoom application. Register by Sept. 29 to receive the Zoom meeting link. Parents are contacted for printed material pickup. Instructor: Paula Guerra.
Halloween Cupcake Decorating • Ages 7-13
Friday, Oct. 29, 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 even use some edible glitter for extra fun. Please note any food allergies at time of registration, tie back long hair, and bring an apron and two airtight containers. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
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.
Before/After School
REC Connect Update
Clara Byrd Baker, J. Blaine Blayton, Matoaka, Matthew Whaley, Norge and Stonehouse REC Connect locations are currently full for the school year. Please submit a completed registration packet to be added to the waitlist. 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. A Winter Break program will be offered Dec. 20-30 on selected days for ages 5-10 and 10-14 , please check out our activity brochure for details! Due to low enrollments and lack of transportation resources, we are not operating a Middle School Teens On Point (T.O.P) after school program at this time.
Health & Wellness
Forest Friends Yoga • Ages 5-8
Thursday, Oct. 21, 5-6 p.m.
$8
Freedom Park
Now more than ever, guiding youth in learning how to quiet their minds and bring mindfulness during moments of difficulty is invaluable. Mindfulness can help minimize anxiety and increase happiness – we all want that!
Bonding Beats • Ages 6+ NEW!
Friday, Oct. 8, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
$10; additional child $5
James City County Recreation Center
This parent and child workshop includes guided practices in rhythm and mindfulness. Communicate and connect with each other – through drumming! Learn rhythms, games and exercises that you can use to strengthen the bonds between you and your child(ren) for a lifetime. No musical experience needed! All instruments provided. Parent must register with child.
Intro to Yoga for Teens • Ages 13-18
Wednesday, Oct. 20, 5-6:30 p.m.
$15
James City County Recreation Center
This practice is specifically designed for teens to help support them in managing a meaningful and enjoyable life. This four-week class will build confidence in their yoga practice along with techniques of mindfulness and value. Poses curated to aide in deep stretching, dynamic flow, and proper breathing techniques. The expectations on our youth are abundant, let’s give them a brain break!
Learn to Row • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 9, 10-10:45 a.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! NEW!
Saturday, Oct. 16, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Greensprings Interpretive Trail
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.
Bounce Circuit • Ages 14+
Thursday, Oct. 21, 10-10:45 a.m.
$5
James City County Recreation Center
Discover the magic of individual mini trampolines. This workshop will introduce your body to a unique and fun fitness experience! Bounce classes are a low impact, high intensity work out designed to tone your body, increase circulation, balance and endurance. Our Jump Sport trampolines have a ballet barre attached to activate the lower body and core for stability. The rebounder is three times more effective than a floor-based exercise. Come see what it is all about! Spaces are limited. No jump experience needed.
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.
Drumming for Wellness • Ages 16+
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 5:30-7 p.m.
$10
Freedom Park
This workshop uses the drum and the voice as a modality to practice mindfulness. Students will learn basic drumming and meditation techniques, and participate in drum circles and sound immersions to experience the use of drums and sound in ritual, ceremony and recreation. No musical experience necessary! All instruments provided. Parent must register with child.
Resistance on the River • Ages 16+
Thursdays, Oct. 7-28, 8:30-9:30 a.m.
$25
Jamestown Beach Event Park
A total body workout for muscular strength and endurance – on the sand! This class includes functional movements using bodyweight exercises and compound movements to improve agility, endurance, strength and core. Your heart will be pumping while viewing our very own piece of the James River. Four-week session. Spaces are limited. Registration required.
Intermediate Meditation Techniques • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 6, 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.
Inclusion/Therapeutic Recreation
Teensational Socials: Pumpkin Carving • Ages 13-21 w/disabilities FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 2, 3-6 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy an evening with friends making scary or silly pumpkin creations.Explore, Engage, Excel... your ability to socialize with peers and excel social skills through fun recreational activities and field trips in the community. No need to register…just come. In collaboration with Capernaum. For more information and a complete event schedule, contact Caitie Maloney at 757-784-6226 or Caitie.Maloney@yahoo.com.
Got Goo? Fun & Sticky Sensory Play! • All Ages & Abilities
Wednesday, Oct. 27, 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 Oct. 20. For more information, please call 757-259-5354.
10th Annual Williamsburg Landing 5K for The Arc • All Ages
Saturday, Oct. 2 - registration & packet pickup begins at 7:30 a.m.
Minimum donation is $45/entrant; registered entrants 10 & younger are FREE!
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. Register online at thearcgw.org to receive a T-shirt. Race day registration and packet pickup begins at 7:30 a.m.
Indoor Game Night • Ages 13+ w/disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, Oct. 12, 7-9 p.m.
Legacy Hall
Swing, Kick, Spike! Join the William and Mary baseball team with a full evening of sports and fun! Offered in collaboration with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg.
Yoga • Ages 13+ w/disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, Oct. 26, 7-9 p.m.
Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 215 Richmond Road
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 a member call 757-229-3535 or visit thearcgw.org. or call 757-229-3535 for location.
Outdoor Programs
Walking Tour of Norfolk Botanical Garden • Ages 16+ NEW!
Friday, Oct. 8, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
$30
James City County Recreation Center
Explore the Norfolk Botanical Garden with a guided walking tour and boxed lunch! Fee includes transportation to and from trip destination, tour and a boxed lunch provided by the Garden Cafe. Expect moderate walking throughout the gardens. Meet in the James City County Recreation Center lobby at 9 a.m. Full trip details are available by contacting sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or 757-259-5355.
Campfire Social • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 9, 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.
Forest Explorers Friday: Night Hike • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Oct. 15, 5:30-7 p.m.
Freedom Park
Join us for the last exploration of the season with a night hike around Freedom Park! 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! Bring a flashlight or a headlamp as we traverse the trails in search of our nocturnal park residents!
Garden Preparation • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 23, 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 included.
History of Jack-O-Lanterns and Pumpkin Painting • All Ages FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 27, 6-7:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Ever wondered why we carve pumpkins around Halloween and where did that name, Jack-O-Lantern come from? Come out and learn about the origins of this holiday tradition and paint your own pumpkin in the style of a Jack-O-Lantern.
Special Events & Programs
Splash on Friday: Ghouls and Goblins Night • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Oct. 15, 6-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Once a month, come in and enjoy family time with us in the pool! 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.
Boo Bash at the Beach • All Ages
Saturday, Oct. 16 • 1-4 p.m.
$5/family
Jamestown Beach Event Park
Enjoy a day at the beach with a Halloween twist! Costumes welcome! COVID mask required. Trick-or-treating onsite for ages 12 and younger. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Also enjoy onsite pumpkin carving and decorating ($5/pumpkin), available first-come, first-served while supplies last. Event also features music, games, food for purchase and more! Registration required by Oct. 13; signup for your visit slot – 1-2:30 p.m. or 2:30-4 p.m. For more information, call 757-259-5372.
Sports
Girls Rule Skate Camp • Ages 6-14
Saturday, Oct. 2, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
$60
James City County Recreation Center
A nod to our next generation of amazing female Olympic Skaters. Learn the basics of skateboarding, or experienced riders can learn more advanced techniques. Every camper receives a Triangle Skateboard Alliance (TSA) Skate Camp T-shirt that will be tie-dyed during camp. 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 receive free competitor entry in Oct. 23 Monster Mash Skate Jam for cash and prizes. For more info or questions, please email TSAproject@outlook.com. Weather permitting; rain date Oct. 9.
Introduction to Pickleball • Ages 18+ FREE!
Two sessions offered!
Thursday, Oct. 14, 4:30-6 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 28, 4:30-6 p.m.
Veterans Park
Get introduced to one of the nation’s fasting growing sports—pickleball! If you didn’t already know, pickleball is a paddlesport that combines badminton, tennis and table tennis and is played on smaller tennis courts. Join local USA Pickleball Ambassador, Jeff Anthony, as he breaks down the foundations and fundamentals of pickleball! All equipment provided and all participants are required to follow the current safety and health guidelines. Preregistration is required at least one week in advance of start date.
To Register
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 seasonal brochure!
Inclement Weather
All 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
Greensprings Interpretive Trail, 3751 John Tyler Highway
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Road
Jamestown Beach Event Park, 2205 Jamestown Road
Legacy Hall, 4301 New Town Avenue
Veterans Park (Kidsburg), 3793 Ironbound Road
Williamsburg Landing, 5700 Williamsburg Landing Drive
Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 215 Richmond Road
Media Contact:
Veda McMullen, Senior Communications Specialist
757-259-5415; veda.mcmullen@jamescitycountyva.gov