James City County Parks and Recreation has a variety of offerings this June – from great special events, to health and leisure activities to exciting and adventurous summer camps, we’ve got something for everyone!
Aquatics
Learn to Swim, Free Swim Evaluations
There are individual registration periods before each swim lesson session. Registration for July classes is June 22-July 1. 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 Tuesday, June 21 and Wednesday, June 22 to provide free swim evaluations. Info: 757-259-4185.
Classes & Activities
Play & Learn Story Time (PALS) (ages 3-5)
Fridays, June 3 & June 17, 10-11 a.m.
Grove Christian Outreach Center, 8800 Pocahontas Trail
Offered in collaboration with the Preschool Literacy Project! FREE for families with preschoolers who live in the Grove area. Come with your preschooler and ENJOY story time with volunteers who will read fantastic books, EXPLORE the pictures and words in the books, ENJOY singing and moving to music, and ENGAGE in games and hands-on activities related to the book. Take home free books and snacks! Instructors are retired teachers, librarians and caring adults.
Oil Painting (ages 16+)
Two sessions offered:
Tuesdays, June 21-Aug. 30 (no class Aug. 23), 1-3 p.m., 206020-A
Wednesdays, June 22-Aug. 31 (no class Aug. 24), 10 a.m.-noon, 206020-B
$105/session; $100 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Create your own masterpiece while making new friends. This class is for the student who has some experience painting in oils. Students provide own supplies; for the list call 757-220-3755 or email annekushnick@gmail.com. 206030-A
Pastels (ages 16+)
Wednesdays, June 22-Aug. 31 (no class Aug. 24), 1-3 p.m.
$105; $100 for JC/W residents
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.
Beginning Oil Painting (ages 16+)
Thursdays, June 23-Sept. 1 (no class Aug. 18), 1-3 p.m.
$105; $100 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
If you’ve never picked up a brush or you want to brush up on the basics, this is the class for you. Students will receive individual instruction to begin a lifetime hobby. Students provide all supplies; for the list, please call 757-220-3755 or email annekushnick@gmail.com. 206010-A
Health & Wellness
Introduction to Plant Medicine Series: Emotional Wellness (ages 18+), Free!
Saturday, June 11, 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Learn about the natural volatile compounds found in plants and their positive effects on health and well-being as well as safety and use. Info: 757-259-4176. 300480-D
Fit Mama – Stroller Fit (all ages)
Tuesdays/Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
$13/day; $8 for JC/W residents, 306550-A
$65 (10 pack); $60 for JC/W residents, 306550-B
James City County Recreation Center
Want to get out of the house, do something fun, active and healthy for yourself and your child AND meet a group of amazing moms in your own town?! Get a great 60 minutes of exercise using your own body weight, bands and balls as well as our outdoor walking trail! Classes end at the nearby My Place Playground for your tots to play. Pre and postnatal workout for all levels. Jogging stroller not necessary. Bring water and a yoga mat or towel. Info: 757-259-4176.
Inclusion & Therapeutic Recreation Services
Canoeing By Choice (ages 10+ with disabilities) New
Sunday, June 26, 10-11 a.m.
$15; $10 for JC/W residents
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Join us at the park pool and get introduced to canoeing and kayaking! Our sessions always start with boats on land and an orientation to the boat, paddle and life jackets. We’ll teach paddling techniques and as comfort levels grow, we’ll increase the challenges until we are on the water in the pool.
Spring Fling Dance (ages 13+ with disabilities) Free!
Saturday, June 4, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Dance your way to the latest moves, with great friends and light refreshments as the DJ rocks the top hits! 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.
Yoga (ages 13+ with disabilities) Free!
Tuesday, June 28, 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.
Therapeutic Thursdays (ages 18+ with disabilities) Free!
Thursdays, June 9 & June 23, 10-11:30 a.m.
Freedom Park
Work with flowers and vegetables in raised beds in Freedom Park’s Botanical Garden and enjoy other programs featuring plants, birds, butterflies and insects. Offered in partnership with the Williamsburg Botanical Garden and led by the Virginia Cooperative Extension James City County Master Gardener Therapeutic Gardening volunteers. For more information and registration details, contact Carolyn Stringer at carolynfstringer@gmail.com or 757-220-4295.
Outdoor Programs
Deer in Your Backyard! (ages 5-12)
Saturday, June 11, 10-11:30 a.m.
Free; however a $5 donation is suggested
Freedom Park
Do deer have teeth? What do they love to eat? How do mother deer take care of their babies? Learn some fascinating facts about these creatures that live in your own backyard! Registration required for all Williamsburg Botanical Garden children’s programs. Please register by emailing wbgkids@gmail.com.
Paddle Adventure on the John Smith Chesapeake Trail (ages 9+) Free!
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m. & noon
James City County Marina
Not all trails are for hiking! Join the experts at Chesapeake Experience and discover by kayak the Captain John Smith Chesapeake National Historic Trail. Learn about Captain John Smith's visit to the James River area as we gently paddle historic Powhatan Creek. This guided paddling trip is sponsored by the National Park Service. Two paddling opportunities are available – one departing at 10 a.m. and one at noon. Space is limited. Pre-registration is required. Arrive at least 15 minutes early and park in the visitor parking area at James City County Marina. Participants must be age 9 or older; anyone under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult. No experience necessary. Info/registration: Chesapeake Experience at 757-259-6859.
Learn to Row Day (ages 13+) Free!
Saturday, June 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Learn the basics of rowing and then get out on the water for a row in a sleek racing shell along Gordon Creek. Multiple rowing sessions held throughout the day. Six participants per session; each session lasts about two hours. Instruction provided by the Williamsburg Boat Club. Info/registration: email williamsburgboatclub@gmail.com.
Freedom Park Nature Walks (ages 16+) Free!
Saturday, June 18, 5 p.m..
Freedom Park Interpretive Center
Join us on a walk each month to learn about the natural world within Freedom Park! This month we’ll be joined by J.D. Kleopfer, Herpetologist with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, to learn about some of the reptiles and amphibians that frequent this area in the summer. Participants are encouraged to bring water, sunscreen, binoculars and appropriate footwear. Space is limited; registration required by emailing Alister.Perkinson@jamescitycountyva.gov.
Women’s Mountain Bike Ride (ages 18+) Free!
Saturday, June 4, 9-11 a.m.
Freedom Park
Ladies, join the Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association’s Dirt Divas on a women’s-only mountain bike ride! Come learn the trail system at Freedom Park, meet fellow female riders in the community and learn the ins-and-outs of mountain biking. The ride will be at a moderate pace and will take about two hours. Participants are welcome to stay after the ride and attend the monthly EVMA meeting and luncheon. Bike and helmet required. Water bottles and/or hydration packs encouraged. Riders meet at the Interpretive Center. Info: email the EVMA at president@evma.org. 806724-A
Beginner’s Mountain Bike Ride (ages 18+) Free!
Saturday, June 4, 9-11 a.m.
Freedom Park
Are you new to mountain biking and looking to ride with a group? Join the Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association on this beginner’s ride! The two-hour ride will be specially designed for novice riders and led by volunteers from the EVMA. Participants are welcome to stay after the ride and attend the monthly EVMA meeting and luncheon. Bike and helmet required. Water bottles and/or hydration packs encouraged. Riders meet at the Interpretive Center. Info: email the EVMA at president@evma.org. 806714-A
Interpretive Paddles (ages 18+) Free!
Monday, June 6, 6-8 p.m.
James City County Marina
Kayak historic Powhatan Creek and Jamestown Island. View birds and wildlife native to our area. Bring your own kayak or rent one of ours. Guided by James River Association. 16 participants max. Info/register: jrava.org or contact Jamie Brunkow at jbrunkow@jrava.org
Growing & Using Herbs for Wellness (ages 18+) Free!
Saturday, June 18, 10-11:30 a.m.
Freedom Park
Learn how herbs are wonderful companions in the quest for wellness. We’ll share information on identifying local/native herbs, parts of the plant safe for use and how to use them in the home and first aid kit. Instructor: Pam Andrulot, student of Naturopathy and Master Herbalist.
Special Events
Tails on the Trail, Free!
Saturday, June 4, 9 a.m.-noon
Freedom Park
Are you up for a trail adventure with your dog? Join us and the Heritage Humane Society for this self-guided adventure which starts off at one of the eight trails open for your exploration through the summer. June 4 is also National Trails Day – get active with your pet! Weather permitting. Info: heritagehumanesociety.org.
Outdoor Pools, Season Passholder Splash Party
Saturday, June 4, 6-8 p.m.
Upper County Park
This exclusive and free event is for our season passholders. Games, prizes and FREE popcorn for each passholder. Weather permitting.
Neighborhood Block Party, Free!
Friday, June 10, 5-7:30 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Join us for a community night of fun and food plus inflatables, arts and crafts, fitness demonstrations, a D.J. and dance music, big trucks from the James City County Fire and Police departments, prizes and more! Weather permitting.
Skate Jam (all ages/experience levels welcome!)
Saturday, June 11, 10 a.m. – skateboarders, 506090-A
Sunday, June 12, 10 a.m. – BMXers, 506090-B
$10/participant/day
Skate Park (adjacent to the James City County Recreation Center)
Skateboards, bikes, food, live local music and of course, prizes make this skateboarding and BMX competition one not to miss! Participants will be divided into experience categories and judged on style, flow and difficulty of the run. Registration and warm-ups begin at 10 a.m. each day. Spectators are free and welcomed. Preregistration is recommended but not required. Weather permitting.
Student Art Show & Exhibit, Free!
June 17-July 15
Williamsburg Library, 515 Scotland Street
Anne Kushnick’s oil painting and pastel students will display their talents in this annual exhibit. View many unique pieces with some available for purchase. Exhibit available during library operating hours.
Outdoor Pools, Season Passholder Splash Party
Saturday, June 18, 6-8 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
This exclusive and event is for our season passholders. Games, prizes and FREE popcorn for each passholder. Weather permitting.
Spencer’s Ordinary Ceremony (all ages), Free!
June 26, 10 a.m.
Freedom Park
The Williamsburg Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will conduct a memorial service on June 26 in honor of the valiant Americans who gave their lives in the Battle of Spencer’s Ordinary on that day in 1781. A series of skirmishes
occurred in the woods and meadows of Freedom Park between units of Lord Cornwallis and those of the French general, Marquis de Lafayette.
The Battle of Spencer’s Ordinary (all ages) Free!
June 26 (immediately following the Spencer’s Ordinary wreath ceremony)
Freedom Park
Discover the realities of Revolutionary War combat! Historian Chris Bonin, MA, a Revolutionary War expert, will examine the action at Spencer’s Ordinary through detailed drawings and first-hand accounts of the men who fought on both sides of the battle.
Sports/Athletics
Teen Tournaments (boys and girls ages 12-19), Free!
Thursdays through June 16, 4-6 p.m.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Come out for weekly Xbox game tournaments and competitive active game tournaments. These safe, free and fun nights challenge you to play in competitive tournaments against other competitors in your age group. Info: 757-887-5810.
Unless otherwise noted, please visit jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or call 757-259-4200 for more information.
June Summer Camps!
For the complete list of summer camps, pick up a copy of the Parks and Recreation Spring/Summer 2016 Destination Recreation Activity Brochure or visit us online at jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation.
Pre School Camps
Little Tykes Summer Camp (ages 3-5; must be potty trained)
Monday-Thursday, June 27-Aug. 18, 1:30-4:30 p.m.
*$65/week; $60 for JC/W residents
*no camp July 4/weekly fee reduced
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy the creative arts and crafts, outdoor play and interactive stories in each fun-filled week of adventure. Sign up for one or multiple weeks!
Youth/Teen Camps
Registration for summer camps is underway! Our REC Connect state-licensed summer camp operates Monday-Friday, June 20-Aug. 26, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. at J. Blaine Blayton, Matoaka, Norge, Rawls Byrd and Stonehouse Elementary Schools and Lois S. Hornsby Middle School. Camp is open to youth ages 5-14 who have completed kindergarten. Registrations accepted on a space available basis. Please allow up to seven business days from received date for processing. Summer camp fees include field trips. $10 discount available for second and subsequent children in the same family attending full time. For registration forms and program information, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation under “Recreation and Programs,” call the REC Connect information line at 757-259-3170 or Recreation Services at 757-259-5351. Discounts are available to any qualified resident based on total income; call 757-259-5414 for discount details. No program on July 4 in observance of Independence Day.
Camp Clay-Mud Pies & Mixed Media (ages 5-9)
Monday-Friday, June 27-July 1, 9-11:30 a.m.
$105; $100 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Explore examples of pottery forms then design and hand build your own clay creations. Plus we’ll work in other artistic media! $35 materials fee due to instructor during first class. Work will be available for pick up after firing. Dress for the mess! 206190-D
Chesapeake Experience Kayak Camp (ages 6-8)
Half Day, two sessions offered:
Monday-Friday, June 27-July 1, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 806300-C
Monday-Friday, June 27-July 1, 12:30-4:30 p.m., 806300-D
$160/session; $155 for JC/W residents
James City County Marina
Daily kayak excursions, crabbing, seining, fishing, species identification, nature walks, scavenger hunts, bay crafts and games teach kids a new and exciting appreciation for the Chesapeake Bay watershed!
Camp Eco (ages 9-11)
Monday-Friday, June 27-July 1, 9 a.m.-noon
$95; $90 for JC/W residents
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Learn the basics of setting up camp, outdoor cooking, hiking and canoeing in this outdoor adventure week. All activities make use of JCC Park amenities! 806300-E
Dirt Diggers (9-12)
Monday-Friday, June 27-July 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$140; $135 for JC/W residents
Freedom Park
Discover the past during this opportunity to work an active archaeological dig site in our community. Learn how to dig, wash, identify, number and piece together artifacts you find and display them in the “Museum of Discovery.” 806300-B
OP Adventures (ages 12-14) New
Monday-Friday, June 20-24, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
$105; $100 for JC/W residents
Freedom Park
Eco to the next level! In this half-day camp, teens venture from home base on a different adventure each day. From biking and hiking to climbing and swinging, you’ll be begging to know what’s next! 806300-A
Camp Chocolate (ages 7-12)
Monday-Friday June 20-24 (no class Wednesday, June 22), 1-4 p.m.
$120; $115 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Learn about chocolate making and the history of chocolate along with games and lots of fun each day. We’ll dip fresh fruits, chocolate clusters and many other treats! Please note any food allergies at registration. Bring an apron and a small snack to class each day. Fee includes all supplies. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc. 206190-B
4-H Junior Scientist Adventures Camp (10-13 years)
Monday-Friday, June 27-July 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$130; $125 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Prepare to be a scientist for a week! You’ll spend the week conducting fun, exciting and explosive experiments while exploring different fields of science. From launching rockets and building roller coasters, to extracting DNA and studying animal habitats-don’t miss out. We’ll also venture to Chickahominy Riverfront Park one day and take a surprise field trip to delve deeper into science. Swimming offered daily. 206190-E
Sports Camps
Multisport Camp (ages 7-9)
Monday-Friday, June 20-24, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$130; $125 for JC/W residents
James City County Recreation Center
Join us for the sampler pack of sports summer camps! We’ll cover basketball, baseball, football and more! 506300-A
Tennis Camp (ages 7-9)
Monday-Thursday, June 27-30, 9 a.m.-noon
$95; $90 for JC/W residents
Warhill Sports Complex
Grab a racquet and get out on the courts! From receiving to scoring, you’ll learn stance, swing, court placement and more! 506300-B
Inclusion Camp
Days of Discovery Camp (youth, teens and adults ages 5-25 with disabilities)
Monday-Thursday June 27-Aug. 18, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.
$80/week; $75 for JC/W residents
Lois S. Hornsby Middle School
Experience FUN, arts and crafts, swimming, outdoor play, gym games and community outings! This exciting summer camp will enhance mobility, socialization and leisure skills. Different weekly camp themes! Sign up for one or multiple weeks! Parents are responsible for their child’s daily pick-up. A typical camper has a mild to moderate disability, can independently or with verbal cues feed, bathe and toilet, is able to function successfully within a 1:3 staff to camper ratio, able to adjust to changes in routine/environment with relative ease, and has the ability to effectively communicate needs either verbally or with a communication device. Registration forms are available online and at the James City County Recreation Center, Freedom Park and Satellite Services. Mail to JCC Parks and Recreation, Days of Discovery, 5340 Palmer Lane, Suite 1B, Williamsburg, Virginia 23188. Registrations accepted on a space availability basis. Info: 757-259-5354.
Unless otherwise noted, please visit jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or call 757-259-4200 for more information.