Brochure Available!
The Spring/Summer 2022 Destination Recreation Activity Brochure is now available! For the complete list of Parks & Recreation camps, activities, programs and events, check us out! Hard copies of the brochure are available at the James City County Recreation Center, the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, public Parks & Recreation facilities, the Satellite Office in Toano and at the James City County and Williamsburg libraries.
Aquatics
We're Hiring, Lifeguards! • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, April 13, 5-7 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Lifeguards are needed to staff Parks & Recreation’s indoor and outdoor pools! 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 between 5-7 p.m. For the complete list of swim test requirements, see the activity brochure or call 757-259-4185. For the complete list of Parks & Recreation job openings, see below!
Splash on Friday • All Ages FREE!
Friday, April 15, 6-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Come enjoy family time in the pool! Free swim area and an area for our Wibit inflatable obstacle course available! Easter-themed 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 is provided. Registration required. Info: 757-259-4185.
Arts & Special Interest
Easter Peep Party • Ages 18 months-6 years with parent/guardian NEW!
Saturday, April 9, 11 a.m.-noon, $20
James City County Recreation Center
Hop on over to class to create an Easter themed art project. You and your child will get to play with clay as you create a larger than life sculpture of a marshmallow Peep®. Come and create right along with your child. Instructor: KidCreate Studio.
PeeWee Painting At-Home Kit • Ages 3-8
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” x12” 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. Ongoing. $10/kit
Easter Craft Party • Ages 4-9
Friday, April 8, 5:30-7:30 p.m., $30
James City County Recreation Center
What’s a favorite thing about Easter? Candy! We’ll create a beautiful springtime scene made out of “sweet” art supplies including frosting, jelly beans and marshmallow Peeps!® Instructor: KidCreate Studio.
Mother’s Day Garden Collage on Canvas • Ages 5-12 NEW!
Saturday, April 30, 9-10 a.m. $15
James City County Recreation Center
Let’s create a Garden Collage on Canvas for mom! This project is inspired by Njideka Akunyili Crosby, a favorite contemporary artist who we’ll explore during this workshop. We’ll use a variety of materials to create a garden almost as beautiful as your mom! Instructor: KidCreate Studio.
Kid’s Mini Easter Eggs Workshop • Ages 6-13
Friday, April 1, 5-7 p.m., $25
James City County Recreation Center
Learn how to make fillings for Easter Eggs, roll them out and shape them, and get ready for dipping into chocolate. We’ll decorate eggs with flower decorations and chocolate drizzles for spring! Please note any food allergies at time of registration. Tie back long hair and bring and apron (or dress accordingly) and an airtight container. Fee includes all supplies. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
Kidz Clay • Ages 10-15
Thursdays, April 14-May 12, 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.
Pottery • Ages 16+
Mondays, April 18-May 23, 9:30 a.m.-noon ▪ $90 ▪ Instructor: Elizabeth Krome
Mondays, April 18-May 23, 6-8:30 p.m. ▪ $90 ▪ Instructor: Elizabeth Krome
Tuesdays, April 19-May 24, 6-8:30 p.m. ▪ $90 ▪ Instructor: Beth Turbeville
Thursdays, April 21-May 26, 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. ▪ $90 ▪ Instructor: Beth Turbeville
Wednesdays, April 20-May 25, 6-8:30 p.m. ▪ $90 ▪ Instructor: Marshall Turner
James City County Recreation Center
Turn raw clay into finished forms. Both hand building and the potter’s wheel explored. Each student must supply their own “Kemper Basic Pottery Tool Kit” or “Kemper Original Pottery Tool Kit” (approx. $15-20, brand name recommended, equivalent accepted). Clay must be purchased in class from instructor on first day for $20/bag, which covers glazes as well. Additional clay is $20/bag.
Open Clay Studio • Ages 16+
Fridays, April 22-May 13, 9:30 a.m.-noon ▪ $20
Fridays, April 22-May 13, 5:30-8 p.m. ▪ $20
Sundays, April 24-May 15, 1:30-4 p.m. ▪ $20
James City County Recreation Center
Practice can make the difference in how you progress in pottery. Uninstructed, this open studio time allows students to continue to work on pieces begun in class. Must be enrolled in current adult pottery class to register. No access to the kiln. Participants MUST check in at Front Desk upon arrival, as well as sign-in in the craft room. To allow all students an opportunity to participate, each student may enroll for only ONE Open Clay Studio Section.
Before/After/Break School/Break
SPRING BREAK UPDATE: Operation hours and fees for the REC Connect Spring Break program have changed. The Spring Break program, for ages 5-10, will operate Monday-Friday, April 4-8, daily from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The fee has also been reduced to $20/day. The program sites are Laurel Lane, Matoaka and Norge elementary schools. Limited spaces still available. The Teen Spring Break program has been canceled due to low enrollment. For information, call 757-259-5351.
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 from the REC Connect website or for pickup at the James City County Recreation Center or any payment site location. Due to low enrollments and lack of transportation resources, a Middle School Teens On Point (T.O.P) after school program is not being offered at this time.
Health/Wellness
Gait Analysis • Ages 10+ FREE!
Saturday, April 23, 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.
Walk This Way: Williamsburg Walking Club • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, April 2, 10-11 a.m.
Warhill Sports Complex Trailhead
Being active is the secret to staying healthy, and walking is a great way to get moving! Let our walking coach 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. A different trail location is featured each month.
Learn to Row • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, April 2, 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?” Now is your chance! Join us for a free introduction to rowing using our indoor rowing erg machines. 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.
Foam Rolling • Ages 14+ FREE!
Monday, April 11, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join us for an hour of deep stretch and relaxation. You’ll learn the techniques and science behind foam rolling as your instructor guides you through your muscle anatomy. The foam roller is not only a great tool to increase flexibility, but is optimal for releasing lactic acid following a workout and provides full muscle self-massage and relief. Whether you’re looking to cool down using active and passive stretches following a workout or just want to relieve regular body aches and pains, this class is great for all levels.
Techniques of Meditation • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, April 6, 7-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or brand new, all are welcome 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.
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.
Therapeutic Recreation
Buddy Ball • Ages 5+ with disabilities
Sundays, April 24-June 5, 2-3 p.m., $20
Warhill Sports Complex
Buddy Baseball is provided in partnership with the Williamsburg Youth Baseball League. Players are assisted, one-on-one, where appropriate, by volunteer buddies, who make it possible to adapt play to individual player needs. Please call Joel Schwartz at 757-879-6222 for more information.
Got Goo? Fun & Sticky Sensory Play! • All Ages & Abilities
Wednesday, April 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 by April 20 is required.
Teensational Socials: Spring Formal Dance • Ages 13-21 with disabilities FREE!
Saturday, April 30, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join us for a night of dancing and fun with friends! Explore, Engage, Excel... your ability to socialize with peers and enhance social skills through fun recreational activities and field trips in the community. No need to register, just drop in! In collaboration with Capernaum. For more information and a complete event schedule, contact Caitie Maloney at 757-784-6226 or Caitie.Maloney@yahoo.com.
Yoga • Ages 18+ with disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, April 26, 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 yoga, upcoming events or to become a member call 757-229-3535 or visit thearcgw.org.
Fitness Field Day • Ages 18+ with disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, April 19, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Join us for a fun evening of hunting Easter eggs, playing games and testing your skills at a kickball tournament.
Outdoors
Forest Explorers Friday: Walk & Talk • All Ages FREE!
Friday, April 15, 5:30-7 p.m.
Freedom Park
Join us for a nature program on Plant Identification and a guided hike with our staff to identify native and non-native plants from bark to blossom and leaves. Programs are held on the third Friday of every month and feature our guides who present a nature program on a different topic and then lead children and their parents on a trip through the forest to learn about plants, wildlife, insects and anything else we may encounter!
Stargazing with NASA Skywatcher Club • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, April 30, 8-10:30 p.m.
Upper County Park
Come Stargaze with NASA Skywatcher Astronomy Club! The NASA Skywatcher Astronomy Club is offering an observing session to share their knowledge, experience and love of astronomy.
Take Your Kid Fishing • Ages 5-12 FREE!
Saturday, April 23, 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
Saturday, April 16-May 7, noon-1 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).
Archery for Adults • Ages 16+
Saturday, April 16-May 7, 1:30-2:30 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).
Adult Learn to Row • Ages 18
Please choose one weekend (time TBA):
April 9 - 24 or June 4 - 19 or August 13 - 28
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Rowers can learn the basics of the boat, rowing technique and navigation leading to a capability of rowing in an adult practice by the program's end. This is great preparation if rowers are interested in continuing with the sport. Rowers should be able to swim. For more information contact: comm.WBC@gmail.com or visit https://www.williamsburgboatclub.org/ for updates. Program cost is $200, with 50% applicable to rowing membership with the Williamsburg Boat Club.
Williamsburg Botanical Garden Events • All Ages
Freedom Park
The Garden is FREE to visit and open daily during park hours, 7 a.m. until dusk. Look for more events at www.williamsburgbotanicalgarden.org/upcoming-events/. Cash is accepted for the Honor Box Plant Sale. Cash, credit and checks accepted for the plant sales.
Daily: April 23 - May 31 - Honor Box Plant Sale
Sat: April 23, 10:30 a.m. - Earth Day/Arbor Day Celebration
Sat: April 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. - Master Gardeners Plant Sale
Special Events
Summer Camp Fair • All Ages
Saturday, April 23 • 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Your one-stop shop for families planning summer activities! Find out about local and regional summer camps, programs and more for all ages! Register onsite or gather information to take home. Giveaways, goodie bags and more! Offered in partnership with WilliamsburgFamilies.com. For more information, please contact Kristy Maynor at kristy@williamsburgfamilies.com or Olivia Bada at olivia@williamsburgfamilies.com.
New Town Tunes • All Ages NEW! FREE!
Wednesdays – April 27, May 4, May 11 • 5:30 p.m.
Sullivan Square (behind Legacy Hall)
Come out and enjoy this spring concert series right in the heart of New Town. Bring your lawn chair or blanket as you listen to a variety of musical artists. Food and beverages available for purchase. Gates open at 5 p.m. Co-hosted by New Town and CultureFix. Band information is available at https://newtownwilliamsburg.com/events-news/
Sports
Preschool Fine Motor Skills • Ages 2-4
Saturday, April 30-May 21, 9:30 a.m., $30
James City County Recreation Center
Let’s put those busy bodies to work! This four-week class will focus on introducing motor control skills through a variety of fun and unique games with a focus on movement! The little ones also receive exposure to sports including soccer and basketball!
Pint-Sized Soccer Series • Ages 4-8
James City County Recreation Center
This soccer series engages kids and helps them develop balance, movement and soccer skills as well as provides a positive sports environment. Half Pint focuses on individual technical development and Full Pint is designed to hone those skills and introduce dynamic team play.
Half Pint Soccer • Ages 4-5: Saturdays, April 30-May 21, 9:45-10:30 a.m. $30
Full Pint Soccer • Ages 6-8: Saturdays, April 30-May 21, 10:450-11:30 a.m. $30
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 Spring/Summer brochure!
Inclement Weather/Cancellations
All Outdoor Events are weather permitting. Before heading out, please call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 any changes in schedules.
Holiday Closure:
The James City County Recreation Center and the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center will be closed Easter Sunday, April 17.
All County parks, including the Stores/Offices within the parks, are open.
Join the Parks & Recreation Team!
We’re Hiring!
Part-time and Full-time positions available.
Parks: Lifeguards (outdoor pools) ● Park Attendants
Recreation Center: Customer Service Representatives ● Fitness Attendants ● Lifeguards (indoor pools) ● Water Safety Instructors
Programming/Before & After School: Assistant Recreation Supervisors ● Recreation Leaders ● Recreation Supervisors ● Therapeutic Recreation Leaders ● Instructors
To learn more about current job openings or to apply online, visit jobs.jamescitycountyva.gov or follow us on social media.
Program Sites
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Highway
Freedom Park/Interpretive Center, 5537 Centerville Road
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Road
Laurel Lane Elementary School, 112 Laurel Lane
Matoaka Elementary School, 4001 Brick Bat Road
Norge Elementary School, 7311 Richmond Road
Little Creek Reservoir Park, 180 Lakeview Road
Sullivan Square, Legacy Hall 4301 New Town Avenue
Upper County Park, 180 Leisure Road, Toano
Warhill Sports Complex, 4900 Stadium Road
Media Contact:
Veda McMullen, Senior Communications Specialist
veda.mcmullen@jamescitycountyva.gov; 757-259-5415