Classes & sports are registering! Activities, festivals & themed programs available through JCC Parks & Recreation!
Classes & Sports are registering! Activities Available through JCC Parks & Recreation!
Fall 2024 Activity Brochure Available!
This Fall edition of Destination Recreation features a wide variety of new adventures to celebrate the cooler temperatures in our beautiful and colorful outdoors! In this issue, adventure awaits you within our scenic parks, 48 miles of trails, and themed programs. We’re also offering more than 15 special events to make the season festive. See the full brochure here.
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 Fall 2024 Brochure!
SPECIAL EVENTS
Boo Bash at the Beach – Saturday, October 12 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Jamestown Beach Event Park, 2205 Jamestown Road
Enjoy a day at the beach with a Halloween twist! Costumes welcome. Trick-or-treating onsite for ages 12 and younger. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Also enjoy onsite activities, music, games, and more! Pumpkin carving and decorating ($5/pumpkin) available first-come, first-served while supplies last. $5/family.
New Town Tunes (All Ages FREE!) – Friday, October 4 from 5-8 p.m.
GRAND FINALE
Sullivan Square in New Town (behind Legacy Hall)
Bring your lawn chairs, picnic baskets and families out to Sullivan Square 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 Commercial Association.
Splash n’ Swim • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Oct. 18, 6-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center Pool
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.
Arts & Special Interests
Zombie Drawing! • Ages 5-12
Saturday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m.-noon; $20
James City County Recreation Center
Create a silly zombie portrait using watercolor, oil pastels and other mediums. Participants can add the finishing touch and eyes that glow in the dark! Dress for mess and get ready for some spooky, silly fun! Instructor: KidCreate Studio.
Halloween Cookie Decorating Workshop • Ages 6-12
Friday, Oct. 18, 5-7 p.m.; $25
Friday, Oct. 25, 5-7 p.m.; $25
James City County Recreation Center
Get ready for some spooky fun decorating homemade cookies with cookie icing. Decorate pumpkins, bats, ghosts, witch hats and other surprise Halloween themed cookies. Bring two large airtight containers, an apron/hand towel and tie back long hair. Please note any food allergies at time of registration. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier, Inc.
Haunted Heritage: Unearthing Your Ancestral Roots • Ages 16+
Saturday, Oct. 26, 1-3 p.m.; $10
James City County Recreation Center
Need help connecting to your ancestors? Come to learn about your family’s haunted past, how to navigate historical online programs or receive help tracing your family tree. Ask questions and get answers from a Genealogist. Bring your laptop, charger and see what haunted heritage your family holds. Advance registration required. Instructor: Paula Harris Guerra.
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.
NOTE: Teens On Point (T.O.P) will not operate an After School Program for the 2024-25 School Year.
Health & Wellness
Spooky Steps: Jack-o’-Lantern Family Fitness • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Oct. 25, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center Trail
Get ready for a pumpkin-filled and fitness fun adventure. Gather your family and friends and join us for a lively Halloween-themed fitness walk that will have everyone in the spirit of the season with a healthy twist. During this event, families will embark on a scenic one-mile walk through our enchanting pumpkin decorated trail. Along the way, look for entertaining fitness challenges and activities suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Dress up in your favorite Halloween-themed attire and let your creativity shine—make sure you can move your body! Lace up your walking shoes and grab your flashlight. Registration required.
Gait Analysis • Ages 10+ FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 5, 10 a.m.-noon
James City County Recreation Center
What could be more essential 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 specific time slot.
Ride for a Reason • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 5, 9-10 a.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join us for a vibrant and empowering spin class dedicated to raising awareness for breast cancer. Dress in your best pink attire and be ready to pedal together as a community in a studio splashed every shade of pink. This class honors those who are fighting or have fought breast cancer but also educates on the importance of early detection and prevention. Giveaways included! No experience needed.
Learn to Row • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 12, 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.
Tai Chi for Arthritis & Fall Prevention • Ages 14+ FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 2, 4-4:45 p.m.
Wednesday, Oct. 9, 4-4:45 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Discover the power of movement and security. Designed to improve balance, flexibility, and overall well-being, this workshop is perfect for individuals with arthritis and those wanting more support. Our certified instructor will guide you through slow, mindful movements to enhance physical function but also boost your energy and confidence. Experience the transformative benefits of Tai Chi in a fun and supportive environment.
Drumming for Wellness • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 30, 6-7 p.m.
Freedom Park
Everyone can drum! Immerse yourself in the rhythmic world of drumming and discover the transformative power of sound and movement. Join us in the drum circle for social interaction, fun, self-expression, stress reduction, community building and an opportunity to develop rhythmicity and improvisational skills! No musical experience needed. Instruments provided, but bring a drum if you have one.
Thriving Together: Cancer Fitness & Wellness Series • Ages 16+ FREE!
Healing Flow – Chair Yoga for Cancer Wellness
Monday, Oct. 7, 10-10:45 a.m.
James City County Recreation Center
The monthly program is designed to support individuals impacted by cancer in their journey to fitness and wellness. Whether you’re a survivor or currently undergoing treatment, we welcome you to a safe and inclusive space where you can come together and exercise. Discover the benefits of physical activity, connect with a compassionate community, and find strength and inspiration as we thrive together.
Yoga for All: Celebrate National Yoga Month • Ages 5+ FREE!
Family Night Yoga
Friday, Oct. 4, 6-7 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Celebrate National Yoga Month this September with our Free Community Yoga Series! Discover different styles of yoga each week to find what suits you best. Join us for a fun journey through the world of yoga, perfect for all ages and fitness levels.
Yoga Sculpt: Elevate & Strengthen • Ages 14+ FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 16, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Experience a dynamic and empowering workout that combines the benefits of yoga, strength training and cardio in one class. This invigorating fitness practice will challenge your body and mind while nurturing your inner sense of balance and well-being. Whether your goal is to build muscle, improve endurance, enhance flexibility, or simply experience a challenging and uplifting workout, this class will leave you feeling strong and centered.
Group Fitness Classes • Ages 14+
Get in shape for fall! From Barre 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.
Inclusion/Therapeutic Recreation
Exceptional Expeditions • Ages 18+ with Disabilities
Need something fun and exciting to do on a Monday? Join us for trips to new places each month while making new friends and learning a new skill or two. Bring lunch and a water bottle. Participants must complete an Inclusion Profile and assessment before each trip. Transportation included.
Participants must be able to:
• Walk up to two miles independently or with the use of a mobility device.
• Have the ability to effectively communicate needs either verbally or with a communication device.
• Can independently feed, bathe and toilet themselves.
For information and to complete an assessment, please call 757-259-5354. Register by noon one week before each trip date.
Bergey’s Barnyard in Chesapeake
Monday, Oct. 14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $25
Meet at the James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy all the fun fall has to offer with a pumpkin patch, corn maze, petting zoo and Goat Yoga?!?!
Teensational Socials: Kickball Games • Ages 13-21 with Disabilities FREE!
Friday, Oct. 4-25, 4:30-6 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Meet at the outdoor baseball fields at JCCRC for some friendly kickball games. For more information or to register, contact Anna Steiner at annawsteiner@gmail.com.
Teensational Socials: Bingo Night • Ages 13-21 with Disabilities FREE!
Thursday, Oct. 10, 6-7:45 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy an evening with friends playing Bingo and winning some prizes. For more information or to register, contact Anna Steiner at annawsteiner@gmail.com.
Yoga • Ages 18+ with Disabilities
Tuesday, Oct. 29, 7-8:30 p.m.
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, any upcoming events or to become an Arc member call 757-229-3535 or visit thearcgw.org. JCCRC or Legacy Hall; call 757-229-3535 for locations.
15th Annual Williamsburg Landing 5K for The Arc • All Ages
Saturday, Oct. 5
Race Day registration and packet pickup begins at 7:30 a.m.
Williamsburg Landing, 5700 Williamsburg Landing Dr., Williamsburg, 23185
Join us on the Williamsburg Landing campus to help support The Arc. All proceeds benefit The Arc of Greater Williamsburg’s mission to improve the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the community. Minimum donation for pre-entries is $50. Registered entrants 10 and younger are FREE!
Outdoors
Freedom Park Full Moon Hikes • All Ages FREE!
Hunter’s Moon*
Thursday, Oct. 17, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Come explore the PARK AFTER DARK! During this self-guided hike, Multiuse Trail 3 will stay open late, past sunset, on select nights. The hike utilizes an out-and-back, one-mile, paved ADA-compliant trail winding through wooded forest and the Colby Swamp. Users must depart the park by the closing time. Bring a flashlight! No registration required. Weather permitting.
*Kids may wear a costume for a special nature-themed trick-or-treat hike with local vendors.
Free Black Settlement Tours • All Ages FREE!
Friday, Oct. 25, 3-5 p.m.
Freedom Park
Tour one of the first Free Black Settlements in the U.S. located here in Freedom Park. Come learn historical facts, information about the land and visit the settlement’s dwellings which are historically accurate of the early 1800s. Registration not required. Meet at the Free Black Settlement area within the park. Tours will take approximately 30-45 minutes dependent on tour size. Weather permitting.
“Take Your Best Shot” Fall and Winter Photo Contests • Ages 18+
Fall Contest Ends Oct. 20
Attention amateur photographers! We’re seeking photographs of park landscapes and scenery, wildlife and of people enjoying our parks. Grab your camera and explore the Greensprings Interpretive Trail, Powhatan Creek Trail, Jamestown Beach Event Park, Powhatan Creek Park and Blueway and the James City County Marina. One winner per category will be selected by public vote on Facebook between Oct. 25-Nov. 1. Winners will be announced in November and will receive a park branded T-shirt of their choice. Winning photographs will be featured on the County’s website, social media and in the kiosk at the respective park locations. For more information, contest guidelines and to submit a photograph, please visit https://www.jamescitycountyva.gov/756/Parks-Trails.
Essentials of River Kayaking: Level 2 • Ages 18+
Skills/Assessment Course
Sunday, Oct. 13, 8 a.m.- 3 p.m.; $50
James City County Marina
Course is designed to teach and perfect skills/strokes for beginner paddlers to safely and enjoyably kayak on gentle rivers. Instruction will include self and assisted water rescue. Course is led by two American Canoe Association (ACA) – Level 2 instructors. Those who successfully complete the course as members of the American Canoe Association will receive an ACA Level 2 Skills endorsement. Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs), paddles and kayaks provided.
Pumpkin Painting • All Ages FREE!
Wednesday, Oct. 16, 6-7:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Drop by the park to create your own Halloween-themed masterpiece. Pumpkins, paints, stickers and more provided while supplies last. Registration is not required.
Heritage Hiking Spree • All Ages
Explore the natural beauty of our historic community by hiking all eight designated trails at your own pace. Each trail offers a unique experience, from serene forest paths to scenic river views, catering to all levels of hikers. Participants will receive a free passport to track their progress at the James City County Recreation Center (JCCRC). Completed passports will receive a special edition sticker to celebrate your achievement! Passports must be turned in at the JCCRC by Nov. 30. Call 757-259-5355 for more information.
Trails include:
•Freedom Park-Multiuse Trail 3
•Warhill Sports Complex Trail
•Greensprings Interpretive Trail
•Veterans Park Multiuse Loop
•Waller Mill-Lookout Tower*
•New Town Trail
•Newport News Park- White Oak Nature Trail
•York River State Park-Woodstock Pond Trail to Fossil Beach*
*Parking fee applies.
County Park Tour • Ages 16+
Friday, Oct. 11, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; $7
James City County Recreation Center
Have you been able to visit all the parks that James City County has to offer? Join us to tour the green spaces and park amenities that make our County so special. We’ll tour or visit most of our major parks and discuss future park plans. Transportation provided. Plan accordingly to board and unload a 14-passenger bus and walk short distances to tour park amenities. Registration required. Weather permitting.
SPECIAL EVENT
Campfire Social • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 19, 6-7 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Come celebrate fall with a good old-fashioned campfire gathering at Chickahominy Riverfront Park! Enjoy s’mores, activities, storytelling and more around the campfire overlooking Gordon Creek.
Kiwanis Kids Train • All Ages
Friday, Oct. 25, 3-5 p.m.
Veterans Park
The Kiwanis Kids Train is coming to a park near you! Offered in partnership, the train features four cars – an engine, coal car and two passenger cars as well as door locks, seat belts, lighting, a bell and a smoke system. This popular attraction will appear at the parks and special events listed; schedule subject to change. For updates, follow us on social media or check our website at www.jamescitycountyva.gov/3965/Kiwanis-Kids-Train. All rides are FREE!
Disability Awareness Trick or Treat • All Ages with Disabilities FREE!
Saturday, Oct. 26, 9 a.m.-noon
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center
Come trick-or-treating in a fun, sensory-friendly environment while learning about community resources for children and adults with disabilities. Enjoy activities for all ages, allergy-free treats and a sensory break room. If you’re interested in presenting as a vendor or would like more information, please call 757-259-5354 or email Tracy.Newsom@jamescitycountyva.gov.
Sports
Ramp Camp (Skateboarding) • Ages 7-15
Saturday, Oct. 5, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; $100
James City County Recreation Center Skatepark
Learn fundamental basics of woodworking and safety combined with artistic expression. Each participant will assemble and paint a portable skateboard ramp that they can take home with them after the course. Instructor: Triangle Skateboard Alliance 501(c)(3).
Intro to Pickleball • Ages 18+
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Oct. 8-17, 3:30-5 p.m.; $20
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Oct. 8-17, 5:30-7 p.m.; $20
James City County Recreation Center
Get introduced to one of the nation’s fastest growing sports— pickleball! Pickleball is a paddlesport that combines badminton, tennis and table tennis and is played on smaller tennis courts. Learn the basic rules and playing fundamentals. All equipment provided.
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 Fall 2024 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.
PROGRAM SITES
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Hwy.
Freedom Park, 5537 Centerville Rd.
Greensprings Interpretive Trail,3751 John Tyler Hwy.
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Rd.
Jamestown Beach Event Park, 2205 Jamestown Rd.
Little Creek Reservoir Park,180 Lakeview Rd.
Sullivan Square in New Town (behind Legacy Hall), 4301 New Town Ave.
Upper County Park, 180 Leisure Rd., Toano
Veterans Park, 3893 Ironbound Rd.
Williamsburg Library, 515 Scotland St.
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