Arts & Special Interests
Good Night Moon • Ages 18 months-6 years
Saturday, Sept. 30, 9:30-10:30 a.m. $15
James City County Recreation Center
“Goodnight, Room! Goodnight, Moon! Goodnight, Cow Jumping Over the Moon!” In this class inspired by your child’s favorite bedtime story, your little artist will paint, glue, and create a glow-in-the-dark masterpiece! Children must be accompanied by a caregiver. Instructor: Kidcreate Studio.
Oil Painting • Ages 16+
Tuesdays, Sept. 5-Dec. 19 (no class 11/14 & 11/21) , 1-3 p.m. $130
Wednesdays, Sept. 6-Dec. 20 (no class 11/15 & 11/22), 10 a.m.-noon. $130
James City County Recreation Center
Make new friends who share your passion for painting! Hone your skills and paint various subject matter. Some experience in oils needed. Student provides supplies; contact 757-220-3755 or annekushnick@gmail.com for the supply list. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Pastels • Ages 16+
Wednesdays, Sept. 6-Dec. 20 (no class 11/15 & 11/22), 1-3 p.m. $130
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, contact 757-220-3755 or annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Before & After School Programs
All REC Connect Before & After School programs are FULL. Any additional completed registration packets received will be added to a waitlist. All registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis according to space availability. The program, for ages 5-10, operates Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. until school starts and school dismissal until 6 p.m. Registration forms and program information are available for download here or for pickup at any payment site. The program is offered at eight WJCC elementary schools; the James River Elementary School is operated by the Boys/Girls Club, call 757-525-0005 for details. For more information or to be added to the waitlist, please 757-259-5351.
Health/Wellness
Kids Bounce • Ages 8-13
Saturday, Sept. 16, 10-10:45 a.m. $5
James City County Recreation Center
This mini trampoline class is a unique experience for kids to burn energy and enjoy their own fitness class. There is something magical about bouncing on a trampoline that kids find incredibly engaging. They’ll enjoy 45 minutes of exciting bounce fitness to fun music. Registration required.
Learn to Row • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Sept. 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? 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. Registration required.
Walk This Way: Williamsburg Walking Club • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturdays, Sept. 9 & Sept. 23, 9-10 a.m.
James City County Recreation Center outdoor walking 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 start location each month. Registration required.
Sunset Yoga Flow on the James • Ages 14+
Thursdays, Sept. 21 & Sept. 28, 6-7 p.m. $8/day
Jamestown Beach Event Park
Join us for a soul-nurturing sunset yoga class! Set against the backdrop of the glistening river and the soft sands beneath your feet, this enchanting sunset yoga experience will allow you to connect with nature, find inner peace and experience a rejuvenating yoga practice that honors the changing seasons. All levels welcome. Registration required.
Journey to Sound: Autumn Intentions • Ages 14+ NEW!
Friday, Sept. 29, 6-7:30 p.m. $5
Freedom Park
The power of sound has been recognized for centuries as a tool for healing, meditation and spiritual growth. Scientific studies have shown that sound vibrations can positively impact our nervous system, reduce stress, improve sleep quality, enhance focus and support overall well-being. We’ll guide you to create a space where you can release tension, let go of mental chatter and connect with your inner self. No experience needed. Come try something new or experience something you already love! Registration required.
Indoor Cycle 101 • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Sept. 30, 10:30-11:15 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. During this intro class, we’ll 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. Registration required.
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.
Techniques of Meditation • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, Sept. 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. Registration required.
Inclusion/Therapeutic Recreation
Buddy Art • Ages 6+ with Disabilities FREE!
Saturdays - Sept. 23, Sept. 30, Oct. 7, Oct. 14, Oct. 28, 3-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
A variety of art activities are offered based on the ages, ability levels and interests. Children are assigned a volunteer “buddy” to work with them one-on-one. Join any class. For more information, visit visitwcac.org/programs/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 JCC Parks & Recreation.
Teensational Socials: Kickball Games • Ages 13-21 with Disabilities FREE!
Fridays – Sept. 8, Sept. 15, Sept. 22, Sept. 29, Oct. 6, Oct. 13, Oct. 20, Oct. 27, Nov. 3, Nov. 10, 4-5:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Meet at the outdoor baseball fields at JCCRC for some friendly kickball games. Provided in collaboration with Capernaum. For more information or to register for an activity, contact Anna Steiner at annawsteiner@gmail.com.
Teensational Socials: Movie Night • Ages 13-21 with Disabilities FREE!
Thursday, 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 latest flick. Provided in collaboration with Capernaum. For more information or to register for an activity, contact Anna Steiner at annawsteiner@gmail.com.
Baseball Clinic • Ages 18+ FREE!
Tuesday, Sept. 12, 7-8:30 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex
Come out and enjoy an evening game of baseball with the William & Mary Baseball Team. Offered in collaboration with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg.
Yoga • Ages 18+ FREE!
Tuesdays – Sept. 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 28 & Dec. 12, 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. Offered in partnership with The Arc of Greater Williamsburg. For more information on yoga, upcoming events or to become an Arc member, call 757-229-3535 or visit thearcgw.org.
Got Goo? Fun & Sticky Sensory Play! • All Ages & Abilities
Wednesday, Sept. 20, 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 fun evenings full of yucky, messy activities. Snacks and materials provided. Bring a messy shirt. Individual sensory activities provided for each family who registers. Registration required by Sept. 13. Info: 757-259-5354.
Outdoors
Take Your Kid Fishing • Ages 5-12 FREE!
Saturday, Sept. 30, 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
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 19-28, 4:30-5:30 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 will inspect for safety before approval for use during the session).
Archery for Adults • Ages 16+
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 19-28, 5:45-6:45 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 will inspect for safety before approval for use during the session).
Adult Kayak Trip • Ages 18+
Saturday, Sept. 30, 9 a.m.-noon, $15
James City County Marina
Paddle along the Powhatan Creek on a 3-mile out-and-back trip from the James City County Marina to Powhatan Creek Park. Kayaks, life jackets and paddles provided.
Forest Explorers Friday: Hummingbirds • All Ages & Families FREE!
Friday, Sept. 15, 5:30-7 p.m.
Freedom Park
The park is home to many pollinating plants and pollinators like hummingbirds. Come learn the importance of a pollinator and enjoy watching wild hummingbirds feed. If we’re lucky, we can feed a hummingbird right out of hand. The first 10 families to arrive will receive a free hummingbird hand feeder to take home! Join us to explore the plants and animals that live within our parks! All programs are weather permitting.
Freedom Park Full Moon Hikes: Super Harvest Moon • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Sept. 29, 7-8 p.m.
Freedom Park
Come explore us AFTER DARK during the full moon! Freedom Park closes at sunset; however, Multiuse Trail 3 only reopens for this self-guided hike on select nights. After sunset, visitors may use Multiuse Trail 3 only, all other areas of the park are closed. The full moon hikes use an out-and-back one-mile, paved ADA-compliant trail winding through wooded forest and the Colby Swamp. Users must depart Multiuse Trail 3 by the closing time. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Special Events
New Town Tunes • All Ages FREE!
Wednesdays - Sept. 13, 20, 27 & Oct. 4, 5-8 p.m.
Sullivan Square (New Town, behind Legacy Hall)
Bring your lawn chairs, picnic baskets, and your family out to New Town to hear local bands perform and enjoy great local beers. Food available for purchase onsite. Presented by James City County Parks & Recreation, Culturefix and New Town Management. For more information including the list of scheduled bands, visit https://newtownwilliamsburg.com/events-news/
Drool in the Pool • All Ages
Sunday, Sept. 17, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., $10/dog
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Join James City County and the Heritage Humane Society for the eagerly anticipated annual Drool in the Pool! Pool passes for your dog to swim and play will be available at the gate on Sept. 17. Music, refreshments and goodies featured! All proceeds benefit the animals of Heritage Humane Society. For more details, visit heritagehumanesociety.org.
Harvest Festival • All Ages
Saturday, Sept. 23 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Parking Fee: $5/car (cash or check only)
Scarecrow Row: $20/each (includes all supplies)
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Join us for this fun, fall annual tradition which draws families back year after year! Exciting FREE kids’ activities including face painting, a tractor-pulled hayride, arts and crafts, inflatables, live bluegrass music by CODE BLUE, “touch a tractor” and more! And don’t miss our scarecrow stuffing attraction, SCARECROW ROW ($) back by popular demand. First-come, first-served while supplies last. Local merchandise ($), food ($) and community vendors will also be on site.
Sports
Preschool Fine Motor Skills • Ages 2-4
Saturdays, Sept. 23-Oct 14, 9-9:30 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 an emphasis on movement! The little ones will also receive exposure to sports including soccer and basketball!
Multi-Sport Minis • Ages 3-5
Tuesdays, Sept. 26-Oct. 17, 5:15-6 p.m. $30
James City County Recreation Center
Try out a sports sampler! Practice sports including baseball, soccer, basketball and more. Each week introduces a new sport!
Tot Shots • Ages 3-5
Tuesdays, Sept. 26-Oct. 17, 6:15-7 p.m. $30
James City County Recreation Center
Learn the basics of basketball! Children will focus on individual skills and learn fundamental tactics and ball-handling skills.
Jump Shots • Ages 6-8
Tuesdays, Sept. 26-Oct. 17, 7:15-8 p.m. $30
James City County Recreation Center
Time to up the game! This basketball course is designed to introduce participants to team play and dynamics in addition to honing other fundamental and technical skills.
Intro to Pickleball • Ages 18+
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Sept. 5-14, 9-10:30 a.m. $20
James City County Recreation Center
Get introduced to one of the nation’s fasting growing sports— pickleball! Pickleball is a paddle sport that combines badminton, tennis and table tennis, and is played on smaller tennis courts. Learn the basic rules and playing fundamentals. All equipment provided.
Adult Pickleball League • Ages 18+
Saturday, Sunday & Monday, Sept. 16-Nov. 4. $15/player
Veterans Park
Seven weeks of league play ending in a weekend of playoff games. Players sign up in teams of two. Each team of two players will compete in one women’s, men’s or mixed doubles match over a seven-week period in a ladder format, with teams moving up or down the ladder based on the results of the previous match. Games schedule and times to be determined. Fee covers needed supplies as well as end of season awards and social.
Glow! Bike Ride • All Ages
Friday, Sept. 29, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $5
Freedom Park
Grab your bike for a glowing nighttime ride! Parks & Recreation and Girls in Gear are partnering to educate children and families on bike safety before taking off on a group bike ride. Participants are encouraged to decorate their bikes with glow elements.
The Lounge
Virginia Holocaust & Edgar Allan Poe Museum • Ages 55+ Exclusive
Tuesday, Sept. 19, 9 a.m.-5p.m.
Departs/returns to James City County Recreation Center
Fee: $50/person; $40/Lounge members
Powerful exhibits on the Holocaust and the survivors who settled in Richmond, Virginia…plus Poe memorabilia and photos. Lunch at the Station 2 restaurant included. Spots available: 21; registration closes Sept. 12. The Lounge 55+, located in the James City County Recreation Center, is designed for ages 55+. For more information on The Lounge, membership benefits and daily activities, stop by the Recreation Center Front Desk, call 757-259-4178 or visit jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation under “Facilities.”
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 2023 Brochure. Look for the Fall 2023 Brochure, available Sept. 11!!
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 Closing:
The James City County Recreation Center and the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center are closed Labor Day, Sept. 4. All County parks, including the Stores/Offices within the parks, are open.
Program Sites
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Hwy.
Freedom Park/Interpretive Center, 5537 Centerville Rd.
James City County Marina, 2054 Jamestown Rd.
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Rd.
Jamestown Beach Event Park, 2205 Jamestown Rd.
Legacy Hall, 4301 New Town Ave. in New Town
Little Creek Reservoir Park, 180 Lakeview Rd.
Upper County Park, 180 Leisure Road, Toano
Veterans Park (Kidsburg), 3793 Ironbound Road
Warhill Sports Complex/Wanner Stadium, 4900 Stadium Dr.
Media Contact:
Veda McMullen, Senior Communications Specialist
757-259-5415; veda.mcmullen@jamescitycountyva.gov