Aquatics
Splash on Friday • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Dec. 16, 6-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
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 Front Desk. Non-swimmers are required to use a lifejacket, which are provided. Registration required. Info: 757-259-4185.
Arts & Special Interest
S is for Santa • Ages 18 months-6 years with caregiver NEW!
Saturday, Dec. 17, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
$15
James City County Recreation Center
Does your young artist love to get messy with paint? Are they getting excited about Christmas? Then this is the perfect class for them! Adults will work right alongside the child as they create a super silly Santa on a real canvas board. Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Instructor: KidCreate Studio.
Preschool Holiday Chocolate Making • Ages 3-5 with parent/guardian
Saturday, Dec. 10, 10-11:30 a.m.
$20
James City County Recreation Center
Learn the basics of chocolate making techniques in a winter themed workshop! Participants will dip pretzels and marshmallows, make chocolate clusters as well as other fun treats. Please note any food allergies at time of registration, tie back long hair, and bring an apron and airtight container. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
Hanukkah Craft Party with Kidcreate Studio • Ages 4-9 NEW!
Saturday, Dec. 17, 11 a.m.-noon
$15
James City County Recreation Center
Celebrate the Festival of Lights by sculpting a rainbow themed Hanukkah Menorah! Participants will use air-dry clay, paint, Model Magic and real candles to create a colorful Hanukkah Menorah. Instructor: KidCreate Studio.
Kid’s DIY Holiday Gift Workshops • Ages 4-12
Ages 4-8: Friday, Dec. 2, 5-6:30 p.m.
Ages 9-12: Saturday, Dec. 3, 9-11 a.m.
$20/day
James City County Recreation Center
Make a fun do-it-yourself gift for family this holiday season! Hand tie, hand paint, hand bead, and learn how to wrap it in festive holiday paper. Gifts will be ready to take home and put under the tree to give to your special someone. Please fill out the questionnaire when registering so the child has everything needed to wrap and craft. Supply fee is $15 for each gift made and is due at the start of the workshop (cash/check only please). Participants may make up to two gifts. Instructor: Mary Griffith.
Kid’s Gingerbread House Workshop • Ages 6-13
Two sessions offered:
Friday, Dec. 2, 5-7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 3, 1-3 p.m.
$25/session
James City County Recreation Center
Construct and decorate your own gingerbread houses! These wonderful treats are perfect as centerpieces for the holidays. Please note any food allergies at time of registration, tie back long hair and bring an apron. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
Holiday Cookie Decorating • Ages 7-13
Two sessions offered:
Friday, Dec. 16, 5-7 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 17, 1-3 p.m.
$25/session
James City County Recreation Center
Celebrate the holidays by decorating homemade holiday cookies! Use buttercream icing in holiday colors to decorate fun holiday-themed shapes such as bells, presents, mittens and more! Please note any food allergies at time of registration, tie back long hair, and bring an apron and two airtight containers.
Holiday Soy Candle Making Workshop • Ages 14+ NEW!
Friday, Dec. 2, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
$30
James City County Recreation Center
What is the holiday season without the memory-inducing smells of cranberries, pine, apple pie and sugar cookies? Now, enjoy those scents in a personalized hand-poured candle! Learn the basics of container candle making using 100% soy wax and an amazing holiday fragrance of choice. Explore the science of wicking and you’ll learn insider tricks to getting the perfect candle every time! Take home an 18 oz. triple-wicked holiday candle to enjoy or to gift to another! Supplies included in fee. Instructor: Laurie Williams.
A Slab Is More Than a Flat Piece of Clay: Exploring Form and Structure in Hand-Building • Ages 16+ NEW!
Friday, Dec. 2, 6-8 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 3, 1-5 p.m. & Sunday, Dec. 4, 1-5 p.m.
$60 (all three days)
James City County Recreation Center
Participants will choose and evaluate a basic form to use as a slump or hump mold to build a vessel. The focus will be on attention to structural and functional elements, embellishment and finishing. Intermediate to advanced clay skills required. Materials fee: $20, payable by cash or check at beginning of workshop. Instructor: Beth Turbeville.
Before/After School
REC Connect
The Clara Byrd Baker, D.J. Montague, J. Blaine Blayton, Matoaka, Norge, and Stonehouse REC Connect Before & After School programs have filled for the 2022-2023 school year. Any additional completed registration packets received will be added to a waitlist. Limited spaces are still available at Laurel Lane and Matthew Whaley. All registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis according to space availability. The program runs Monday-Friday though the end of the school year. The Before School program is offered 7 a.m. until school starts; the After School runs school dismissal until 6 p.m. Programs are closed in observance of holidays. Program operating hours are subject to change based on WJCC school operating hours. For more information, call 757-259-5351.
The Before & After School Program at James River Elementary School is now being operated by the Boys & Girls Club of the Virginia Peninsula for the 2022-23 school year. For information on their program, visit bagclub.com. To register, call Ms. Lauren at 757-505-8825.
The Teens on Point (T.O.P) Middle School After School Program will not be offered during the 2022-23 School Year.
Health/Wellness
Family Zumba – Fall Fun: Holiday Dance Party • Ages 5+ FREE! NEW!
Friday, Dec. 30, 5-6 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
If you’re looking for something fun and healthy to do with your family, this is it! Family Zumba gives you and your family a chance to be active together. One Friday each month will be a different fall theme. Exciting music with easy-to-follow movements makes for a perfect fitness class while having fun! Space is limited; registration required.
Healthy Eating for Diabetes Management • Ages 12+ FREE! NEW!
Tuesday, Dec. 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
While healthy eating is key to keeping blood sugars within target range, it’s also one of the most difficult parts of diabetes management. Join Registered Dietitians and Diabetes Educators from LWell Longevity Wellness and learn about the specific foods that support a manageable, healthy long life. The power of a healthy lifestyle cannot be ignored. Come develop your own personalized plan!
Intentional Living Workshop - For Teens • Ages 13-18 FREE!
Monday, Dec. 5, 6-7:45 p.m.
Freedom Park
This workshop is a dream for those who wish to live their lives on purpose! Journal, play games, learn meditations, practice yoga and create a vision board, all while examining your “why!” During this class you’ll be immersed in discussions and reflections about your values, goals and dreams. You’ll have your very own personal mission statement to help guide your choices!
Indoor Cycle 101 • Ages 14+ FREE!
Tuesday, Dec. 3, 10-10:45 a.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 enter the “spin” world. Put things in full gear with our awesome tunes, control over resistance and speed, and overall intensity. No bike experience needed.
Learn to Row • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Dec. 10, 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!
Saturday, Dec. 31, 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. New trail location each month.
Group Fitness Classes • Ages 14+
Get in shape for winter! 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.
Techniques of Meditation • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, Dec. 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.
Therapeutic Recreation
Teensational Socials: Christmas Party • Ages 13-21 with Disabilities FREE!
Wednesday, Dec. 7, 6:15-7:45 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Bring your Holiday Spirit and enjoy music, games, crafts and time with friends. For more information or to register, contact Anna Steiner at wrighta2stu18@gmail.com.
Holiday Dinner Dance • Ages 13+ with Disabilities FREE!
Saturday, Dec. 10, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Legacy Hall
Enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season with dancing, dinner with friends and maybe even catch a glimpse of Santa Claus! Registration is required through The Arc of Greater Williamsburg. Call 757-229-3535 to register.
Yoga • Ages 13+ with Disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, December 13, 7-8:30 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. Provided 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.
Got Goo? Fun & Sticky Sensory Play! • All Ages & Abilities
Thursday, Dec. 15, 6:30-8 p.m.
$10/family
James City County Recreation Center
Do you like to play with slime? Have you ever painted with spaghetti? Join us for a fun evening full of yucky, messy activities. Snacks and materials provided. Bring a messy shirt. Individual sensory bins provided for each family who registers. Register for in-person or take home kit. **Registration is required; deadline is Dec. 8.
Outdoors
Freedom Park Full Moon Hikes: Cold Moon • All Ages FREE!
Wednesday, Dec. 7; park closes at 6 p.m.
Freedom Park
Come explore the PARK AFTER DARK during the full moon each month through December! During this self-guided hike, Freedom Park will stay open late, past sunset, on select nights. After sunset, visitors may only use Multiuse Trail 3; the full moon hikes are a walking loop that start and end along this trail which is a one-mile, paved ADA-compliant trail winding through wooded forest and the Colby Swamp. Users must depart the park by 6 p.m. and must stay on Trail 3 after sunset. Flashlights or headlamps are recommended. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Million Bulbs Walk • All Ages
Friday, Dec. 2, 5-9 p.m.
$30
James City County Recreation Center
Take a mile-long walk through the magical, illuminated lights at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens! Fee includes garden admission and transportation. Participants aged 15 & younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Holiday Ornaments from Nature • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, Dec. 3, 10-11:30 a.m.
Freedom Park
Stop by the Freedom Park picnic shelter and transform acorns, sweetgum balls and pinecones into adorable ornaments! Bring billfold size school photos if you would like to make a surprise for Grandma or a remembrance ornament for your tree. Drop in for free anytime between 10-11:30 a.m., spend an hour or so, and head home with some new tree ornaments! All materials provided, while supplies last. Dress for the weather. Registration not required.
Special Events
Santa Calling • Ages 9 & Younger FREE!
Tuesday, Dec. 6. Register early. Registration/links close Nov. 29.
Breakfast with Santa • All Ages
Breakfast with Santa, Dec. 10: Full; event capacity reached.
Sports
NEON Night Series: Glow! Pickleball • Ages 16+ NEW!
Friday, Dec. 9, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
$5
Veterans Park
Get your glow on while playing pickleball under the blacklights! Bring your neon shirt and paddle to join in on the fun. Previous pickleball experience is encouraged.
NEON Night Series: Glow! Family Dodgeball • All Ages NEW!
Friday, Dec. 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
$5
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Get the family together for this friendly competition under the blacklights! We’ll have matches with adults v. children, children v. children, and everyone v. each other! Make sure to wear the brightest outfit in your closet.
Winter Break Camps & Programs
Little Tykes • Ages 3-5
Not currently attending kindergarten and MUST be toilet trained. Registration deadline: Dec. 16, 12 noon (register early)
James City County Recreation Center
Little Tykes Crafty Holiday Camp!
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
$15
Join us for crafting, carols and most importantly, hot cocoa and cookie decorating fun! Children will participate in the festive season by creating a keepsake ornament, putting their names in lights and eating a creative snack!
Little Tykes Winter Wonderland Camp!
Wednesday, Dec. 28, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
$15
Explore this chilly winter season with big, ICY fun! Edible Penguins, Snowmen and delicious snowflakes will delight your child's imagination and taste buds!
REC Connect • Ages 5-10
Laurel Lane Elementary School
Must be enrolled in kindergarten Enjoy winter break fun with exciting trips and hands-on activities. Bring lunch daily. Registration deadline: Dec. 16 at noon (register early, space is limited). Activity calendars will be sent to parents before program start date.
Bouncing Away the Winter Blues!
Monday, Dec. 19, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
$25
Come out and bounce off the cold by enjoying a trip to the Williamsburg Bounce House! Bring lunch!
You’re a Mean One…Mr. Grinch!
Tuesday, Dec. 20, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
$25
Wear GREEN and participate in grinch themed activities onsite, followed by a movie! Bring lunch!
Under the Winter Sea!
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
$25
Enjoy a fun filled trip to the Virginia Aquarium in Virginia Beach! Bring lunch!
Holiday Pajama Party!
Thursday, Dec. 22, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
$25
Wear your favorite holiday pajamas while playing minute-to-win-it games onsite for prizes! Bring lunch.
Colorful Strokes!
Tuesday, Dec. 27, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
$25
Paint a holiday masterpiece as a gift for someone at Paint on Pottery! Bring lunch!
Lights, Camera, ACTION!
Wednesday, Dec. 28, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
$25
End 2022 with a trip to the big screen at Cinema Café! Bring lunch!
Bringing in the New Year!
Thursday, Dec. 29, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
$25
New Year’s Party onsite to include pizza making, music and glow party! No lunch needed!
Inclusion/Therapeutic Recreation
Days of Discovery Winter Break Program • Ages 5-22 with Disabilities (must have completed kindergarten and must be enrolled in the current school year)
Tuesday-Thursday, Dec. 27-Dec. 29, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
$105
James City County Recreation Center
Registration deadline: Tuesday, Dec. 20, noon. Experience FUN, arts and crafts, gym games and much more! A typical participant:
• 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
• is able to adjust to changes in routine/environment with relative ease
• has the ability to effectively communicate needs either verbally or with a communication device.
For more information or to register, please call 757-259-5354.
Specialty Programs & Camps
Camp Clay-Mud Pies & Mixed Media (Winter Edition) • Ages 5-9 NEW!
Monday-Thursday, Dec. 19-22, 9 a.m.-noon
$100
James City County Recreation Center
Participants will explore examples of pottery forms before designing and hand building a personalized clay creation. We’ll also work in additional artistic media! $35 materials fee (cash or check) due to instructor at first class. Work will be available for pick up after firing. Dress for the mess! Instructor: Diane Kroniess, Professional Potter.
Game On! Art Camp • Ages 5-12 NEW!
Tuesday-Friday, Dec. 27-Dec. 30, 1-4 p.m.
$110
James City County Recreation Center
Take a break and go “AFK” (away from keyboard) while exploring your favorite video games through drawing, sculpting and painting! Design a personalized avatar, sculpt a favorite Among Us Crewmate, create Sonic the Hedgehog and so much more! Camp covers some of the hottest new games plus awesome throwback classics. Please pack a nut free snack and drink for your child each day. Instructor: Kidcreate Studio.
Magical, Mystical Unicorns Camp • Ages 5-12 NEW!
Tuesday-Friday, Dec. 27-Dec. 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
$165
James City County Recreation Center
Unicorn fans, this is the camp meant for you! Participants will make unicorns that dazzle, sparkle and shine while exploring a wide array of materials and techniques such as drawing and sculpting. Participants will even learn the secret recipe for making fabulous, glittery Unicorn Slime! Please pack a snack/lunch/drink for your child each day. Instructor: Kidcreate Studio.
Camp Encanto!TM • Ages 7-12 NEW!
Monday-Thursday, Dec. 19-22, 9 a.m.-noon
$110
James City County Recreation Center
We don’t talk about Bruno… except in Encanto camp! Learn about Columbia as well as other Latin countries including cultures, languages and arts and crafts! Instructor: Paula Harris Guerra.
Winter Wonderland Dessert Camp • Ages 7-13 NEW!
Monday, Thursday, Dec. 19-22, 9 a.m.-noon
$125
James City County Recreation Center
Come make fancy winter-themed desserts and treats! Learn how to make delicious seasonal desserts and decorate cupcakes with buttercream frosting with winter-time finishes! Please note any allergies at the time of registration. Bring an apron and a small snack each day. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
Park Passport Winter Break • Ages 9-12 NEW!
Monday-Wednesday, Dec. 19-Dec. 21, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$105
James City County Recreation Center
Tour a sampling of the area’s surrounding local and state parks. Each day will highlight a unique activity, outing or program. Camp fee includes transportation, park admissions, amenities and excursion fees. Campers are encouraged to bring a bagged lunch, snacks and a water bottle daily.
Teens On Point Winter Break Trips • Ages 12-15
Registration deadline: Dec. 16 at noon (register early, space is limited)
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy winter break fun with exciting trips and hands-on activities. Bring lunch daily. Please complete the Registration Information Sheet before attending.
Golfing Around!
Wednesday, Dec. 21, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
$25
Take swings at TOP Golf in Virginia Beach, where there’s no pressure to have a good swing! It’s all about having fun! Bring lunch!
Reaching New Heights!
Thursday, Dec. 22, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
$30
Kickoff winter break at new heights! Show off your climbing skills at one of Virginia’s largest indoor climbing facilities at Peak Experiences in Richmond! Bring lunch!
Plant Bar!
Tuesday, Dec. 27, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
$25
Create plants in a mindful way to connect with yourself, the community, and Mother Earth at the Plant Bar in Richmond. Bring lunch!
Tag You’re It!
Thursday, Dec. 28, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
$30
Step into your favorite first-person video game for Laser Tag followed by lunch at Patrick Henry Mall! Bring money or lunch!
Closures
Christmas Holiday
- The James City County Recreation Center and the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center will be closed Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 and Christmas Day, Dec. 25. The facilities reopen Monday, Dec. 26 on normal schedule. The James City County Recreation Center will close at 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31.
- All County parks remain open throughout the holidays. However, some parks have stores/offices which will be closed. The stores/offices at Chickahominy Riverfront Park, Little Creek Reservoir Park, Freedom Park and the James City County Marina will be closed Dec. 24 and Dec. 25 in observance of the Christmas holiday. For more information, call 757-259-4200 or visit https://jamescitycountyva.gov/3257/Holiday-Closures. #jccparksrec
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.
Registration
To register for all programs and camps:
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!
Program Sites
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, 8901 Pocahontas Trail
Freedom Park/Interpretive Center, 5537 Centerville Road
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Road
Legacy Hall, 4301 New Town Avenue
Veterans Park, 3793 Ironbound Road
Warhill Sports Complex, 4900 Stadium Road
Media Contact:
Veda McMullen, Senior Communications Specialist
757-259-5415; veda.mcmullen@jamescitycountyva.gov