Aquatics
Splash on Friday • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Sept. 16, 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! 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
Stack Them Up Cakes! Workshop • Ages 12-17
Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
$35
James City County Recreation Center
Have you seen cakes at a wedding or fancy event and wondered how they stacked them? In this fun workshop, you’ll create a mini four-inch and a six-inch double layered cake – then we’ll learn to ice (as little or as much as you want), decorate, stack and transport home. Please note any food allergies upon registration. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
Fall Soy Candle Making Workshop • Ages 14+
Friday, Sept. 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
$30
James City County Recreation Center
Are you “pumpkin spice" everything? Get cozy this Fall with a custom hand poured candle. Learn the basics of container candle making using 100% soy wax and an amazing fall fragrance of your choice. The science of wicking will be explained as well as insider tricks to pouring the perfect candle every time! Take home an 18 oz. triple-wicked fall candle. Instructors: Laurie Williams/ Mary Griffith
Oil Painting • Ages 16+
Tuesdays, Sept. 6-Dec. 20 (no class Nov. 15 & 22), 1-3 p.m.
$130
James City County Recreation Center
Join us to create your own masterpiece while making new friends. This class is for students who have some experience painting in oils. Students provide their own supplies. For the list, call 757-220-3755 or email annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Pastels • Ages 16+
Wednesdays, Sept. 7-Dec. 21 (no class Nov. 16 & 23), 1-3 p.m.
$125
James City County Recreation Center
Learn how to use this versatile and fun medium to create portraits and landscapes. Students provide their own supplies. For the list, call 757-220-3755 or email annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Open Clay Studio • Ages 16+
$20/class/day
James City County Recreation Center
Fridays: Sept. 16, Sept. 30, Oct. 14, Oct. 28 - 9:30 a.m.-noon
Fridays: Sept. 16, Sept. 30, Oct. 14, Oct. 28 - 5:30-8 p.m.
Sundays: Sept. 18, Oct. 2, Oct. 16, Oct. 30 - 1:30-4 p.m.
Fridays: Sept. 23, Oct. 7, Oct. 21, Nov.4 - 9:30 a.m.-noon
Fridays: Sept. 23, Oct. 7, Oct. 21, Nov. 4 - 5:30-8 p.m.
Sundays: Sept. 25, Sun 9/25, 10/9, 10/23, 11/6 1:30-4 p.m.
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 craft room. To allow all students an opportunity to participate, each student may enroll for only ONE Open Clay Studio section.
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: Glow Party • Ages 5+ FREE!
Friday, Sept. 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 a perfect fitness class while getting fit and having fun! Space is limited; registration required.
Walk This Way: Williamsburg Walking Club • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Sept. 17, 9-10 a.m. – Warhill Sports Complex Trailhead
Saturday, Sept. 24, 10-11 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 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.
Bounce & Barre • Ages 14+ NEW!
Monday, Sept. 26, 4-4:45 p.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 and high intensity workout 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.
Intro to Yoga • Ages 14+
Mondays, Sept. 26-Oct. 10, 6-7:15 p.m.
$30
James City County Recreation Center
If you’ve always wanted to step into a group yoga class but haven’t, this three-week workshop is for you! We'll break down the poses, and you can ask as many questions as you need!
R.A.D. • Ages 14+ FREE!
Tuesday & Thursday, Sept. 27 & Sept. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 1, 10 a.m.-noon
Tuesday & Thursday, Oct. 4 & Oct. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
The R.A.D. system (Rape Aggression Defense) is a program of realistic, self-defense tactics and techniques. This comprehensive (five days) for women begins with awareness, prevention, risk reduction and avoidance then progresses to the basics of hands-on defense training. Classes are taught by certified R.A.D. instructors with the James City County Police Department. Call 757-259-4200 to register.
Find Your Yoga Style: Hatha • Ages 14+ FREE! NEW!
Wednesdays, Sept. 28, 7:15-8:15 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Whether you are looking for a practice to provide a sweaty workout, attracted to the restorative benefits, searching for an experience, or needing relief from back pain—your discovery is here. Try one or a sampler to find what works best for you! All levels welcome.
Group Fitness Classes • Ages 14+
Get in shape for summer! 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+ FREE!
Wednesday, Sept. 21, 5:30-7 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
We’ll use 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 needed. All instruments provided. Parent must register with child.
Therapeutic Recreation
Buddy Art • Ages 6+ with Disabilities FREE!
Saturdays – Sept. 10, Sept. 17, Sept. 24, Oct. 1 & Oct. 8, 3-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
A variety of art activities are offered based on age, ability level and interests. Children are assigned a volunteer buddy to work with them one-on-one. For more information, visit visitwcac.org/what-we-do/community-activities/buddy-art/ or contact buddy.art.kids@gmail.com or 757-879-4328. Sponsored by Williamsburg Contemporary Art Center in partnership with volunteers from William & Mary and James City County Parks & Recreation.
Teensational Socials: Movie Night: • Ages 13-21 with Disabilities FREE!
Wednesday, Sept. 14, 6:15-7:45 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join friends for a night of fun and laughs as you watch the newest flick. Provided in collaboration with Capernaum. For more information or to register for an activity, contact Anna Steiner at wrighta2stu18@gmail.com.
Teensational Socials: Kickball Games • Ages 13-21 with Disabilities FREE!
Fridays – Sept. 16, Sept. 23, Sept. 30, Oct. 7 & Oct. 14, Oct. 21, Oct. 28 & Nov. 4, 4:30-6 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Meet at the outdoor baseball fields at Recreation Center for some friendly kickball games. Provided in collaboration with Capernaum. For more information or to register for an activity, contact Anna Steiner at wrighta2stu18@gmail.com.
Baseball Clinic • Ages 13+ with Disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, Sept. 13, 7-8:30 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex
Come out and enjoy an evening game of baseball with the William & Mary Baseball Team in collaboration with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg.
Yoga • Ages 13+ with Disabilities FREE!
Tuesday, Sept. 27, 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.
Sensory Friendly Movie Night • All Ages & Abilities
Friday, Sept. 30, 6-8 p.m.
$5/family
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy a feature film with family and friends in a safe and accommodating environment. The lights will be turned down low and special sensory seating areas provided. Popcorn and snacks included. Registration required. Registration deadline is one week before each program. For more information, please call 757-259-5354.
Outdoors
Archery 101 • Ages 9-15
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 20-Sept. 29, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
$50
Upper County Park
Learn the safe use and handling of a recurve bow in addition to proper range procedures. Designed for beginner to intermediate ability. Equipment provided or bring your own (instructors will inspect for safety before approval for use).
Archery for Adults • Ages 16+
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 20-Sept. 29, 6-7 p.m.
$50
Upper County Park
In this introduction to use and shoot recurve bows, participants will learn proper technique, tricks and focus on upper body strength. Equipment provided or bring your own (instructors will inspect for safety before approval for use).
Freedom Park Full Moon Hikes: Harvest Moon • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, Sept. 10; park closes at 8 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 8 p.m. and must stay on Trail 3 after sunset. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Forest Explorer Fridays • All Ages/Families FREE!
Friday, Sept. 16, 5:30-7 p.m.
Powhatan Creek Trail
Crossing over the 696-foot long timber bridge provides a unique vantage point to explore the creeks and waterways that were integral to settling the region. One of our nature guides will present a nature program, then lead children and their parents on a trip through the forest to learn about plants, wildlife, insects, and anything else we may encounter! Meet at Powhatan Creek Trail head, 3131 Ironbound Road, near Clara Byrd Baker Elementary School parking lot. Weather permitting.
Special Events
Drool in the Pool • All Ages
Saturday, Sept. 10 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
$10/dog
Join James City County and the Heritage Humane Society for the eagerly anticipated annual Drool in the Pool! Pool passes for your dog will be available at the gate on Sept. 10. Music, refreshments and goodies featured! All proceeds benefit the animals of Heritage Humane Society. For details, visit heritagehumanesociety.org.
New Town Tunes • All Ages FREE!
Wednesdays – Sept. 14, 21 & 28 • 5-8 p.m.
Sullivan Square (behind Legacy Hall in New Town)
Bring your lawn chairs, picnic baskets and your family out to hear local bands perform! Great local beers and food will be available for purchase. Presented by James City County Parks & Recreation, Culturefix and New Town Management. For details including performing bands, visit https://jamescitycountyva.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=5336
Harvest Festival • All Ages
Saturday, Sept. 17 • 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Parking Fee: $5/car (cash or check only)
Scarecrow Stuffing: $20/each (includes all supplies; cash and check accepted at fairgrounds, credit cards accepted at the Chickahominy Riverfront Park Store
Join us for this fun, fall annual tradition which draws families back year after year! The festival features free activities for the kids including include face painting, arts and crafts, petting zoo, inflatables, a tractor-pulled hayride and “touch a tractor” presented by James River Equipment and more! New this year, bring your lawn chair and listen to great music from the local bluegrass band, Code Blue, from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Scarecrow Stuffing is back too by popular demand, so come make the biggest, the best, and maybe the only scarecrow in your neighborhood. First-come first-served while supplies last. Local merchandise ($), food ($) and community vendors will also be onsite.
Movie Under the Stars • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Sept. 23, 7:30 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 starts. Children 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Scheduled feature: Encanto (PG); movies subject to change. Weather permitting.
Sports
Girls Rule Skate Camp • Ages 6-14 NEW!
Saturday, Sept. 17, 9-11 a.m.
$20
Skate Park
As a nod to our next generation of amazing female Olympic Skaters, girls are invited to learn and grow their knowledge of skate boarding. Instruction focuses on safety and features a beginner area for new skaters to grow skills together as well as breakouts for more advanced skaters. Every camper receives a TSA Skate Camp T-shirt that will be tie-dyed during camp. Pack a skateboard, pads and helmet as well as a snack and water! Info: TSAproject@outlook.com. Weather permitting.
Second Chance Skate Camp • Ages 6-14 NEW!
Saturday, Sept. 17, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p m.
$20
Skate Park
Learn the basics of skateboarding or experienced riders can learn advanced techniques! Instruction focuses on safety and features a beginner area for new skaters to grow skills together as well as breakouts for more advanced skaters. Every camper will receive a TSA Skate Camp T-shirt. Pack a skateboard, pads and helmet as well as a snack and water! Info: TSAproject@outlook.com. Weather permitting.
Girls in Gear Kick off • Ages 8-13 FREE! NEW!
Saturday, Sept. 24, 9 a.m.–noon
Warhill Sports Complex
Drop in and meet the team of Girls in Gear! Participate in the bike rodeo, learn safety skills, have your helmet fitted, receive a bike tune up and join in other fun activities to kick off the eight-week session which runs Oct. 1-Nov. 19. All riding and skill levels welcomed! Gently used bike donations are encouraged and accepted during the kick off!
Full Pint Soccer • Ages 6-8
Saturdays, Sept. 24-ct. 15, 9-9:30 a.m.
$30
James City County Recreation Center
Soccer helps children develop balance and movement as well as model a positive sportsmanship-like environment. Full Pint is designed to hone individual technical development skills and introduce dynamic team play.
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.
Join the Parks & Recreation Team! We’re Hiring!
Part-time and Full-time positions available.
Parks: Lifeguards (outdoor pools) ● Park Attendants (Trackless Train Operators!)
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
Powhatan Creek Trail, 3131 Ironbound Road
Skate Park (adjacent to the James City County Recreation Center), 5301 Longhill Road
Sullivan Square (behind Legacy Hall in New Town), 4301 New Town Avenue
Upper County Park 180 Leisure Road, Toano
Warhill Sports Complex, 4900 Stadium Road
Media Contact:
Veda McMullen, Senior Communications Specialist
757-259-5415, veda.mcmullen@jamescitycountyva.gov