Looking for Sports & Program thru James City County Parks & Recreation? Destination Recreation Activity Brochure is out!
The James City County Parks & Recreation brochure Destination Recreation is out and it is full of outdoor and indoor sports and activities for every age and stage of your family. Follow this link to view the Activity Brochure. Keep scrolling for September Events through James City County Parks & Recreation.
JANUARY PROGRAMS AND EVENTS
To register for the programs and events outlined below, please visit us online or call 757-259-4200. For the complete list of Parks & Recreation activities, programs and events, check out our latest Activity Brochure. The brochure can be downloaded at jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation or picked up at our walk-in payment locations, County government offices and the James City County and Williamsburg libraries!
AQUATICS
Pool Renovation Update:
Thank you for your continued patience as we complete the renovation of our indoor pool. While significant progress has been made, unexpected structural issues discovered during renovations, in addition to weather closures, have extended the timeline, pushing the reopening beyond the original advertised date. The pool is now scheduled to reopen on Monday, February 2. We appreciate your patience throughout this process and are excited to share these renovations with the community! Please note that this schedule is subject to change due to inclement weather. If the opening date is delayed, updates will be shared on the Aquatics webpage, by email to members and across our social media channels (Facebook and Instagram). Thank you for your understanding and support as we work to ensure the best possible experience when the facility reopens.
American Red Cross Courses • Ages 14+
Saturday, Jan. 24, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2-6 p.m.; $95
James City County Recreation Center
Interested in saving lives? The Aquatics team is hosting American Red Cross CPR & AED and First Aid courses.
ARTS & SPECIAL INTERESTS
Make, Play, Create • Ages 18 months-6
Tuesday, Jan. 6, 10-11 a.m.; $64
James City County Recreation Center
The art of playing comes to life with cuddly puppy dogs, adorable teddy bears, cute kitties, and basketballs. Join us as we help our little artists unleash their creativity and explore a magical world of playful, artistic adventures! Come ready to get messy while you play right along with your child. Instructor: KidCreate.
Nailed It! Dream Big • Ages 5-12
Mondays, Jan. 5-Feb. 9, 5-6 p.m.; $113
James City County Recreation Center
Get ready to bake, sculpt, paint and utilize your endless imagination! Build a diorama of your dream room, craft a magical snow globe, and design a one-of-a-kind dream gown. We’ll give you the tools and inspiration—you bring the vision and creativity to nail each masterpiece! With plenty of surprises along the way, this camp blends artistic expression with problem-solving for the ultimate creative adventure. Instructor: KidCreate.
Winter Wonderland Cake Decorating • Ages 7-12
Friday, Jan 23, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Come join the fun as we ice a double-layer vanilla cake with white buttercream icing! We will decorate the cake with purple and blue icing and some snowflakes and snowmen! This workshop will provide boxes to take home decorated cakes. Please note any food allergies upon registration and tie back long hair. Instructor: Williamsburg Chocolatier.
Valentine Chocolate Making Workshop • Ages 7-12
Friday, Jan. 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Participants will make a variety of chocolate treats such as hearts using candy molds, dipped buttercreams and bark decorated with fun and festive Valentine’s Day decorations. Please note food allergies with registration, tie back long hair, and bring an apron. Creations will be put in a fun Valentine’s Day Candy Box ready for gift-giving/sharing. Instructor: Williamsburg Chocolatier.
Let It Snow: Snowflakes and Sculptures – Air Dry Clay • Ages 7-13
Mondays, Jan. 5-26, 5-6 p.m.; $25
James City County Recreation Center
Celebrate the magic of winter in this hands-on clay workshop! Young artists will use air-dry clay to sculpt their own snow-inspired creations, from whimsical snowflakes and snowmen to tiny igloos, mittens or wintry animals. Please bring a container so you can safely take your pieces home to dry. Instructor: Heidi Ordaz.
Winter Wildlife • Ages 7-13
Tuesdays, Jan. 6-27, 5:30-7 p.m.; $50
James City County Recreation Center
Step into the quiet beauty of winter forests and snowy fields as we paint the animals that call them home. In this watercolor workshop, students will learn to create soft, seasonal scenes featuring winter wildlife like foxes, owls, deer, polar bears or penguins, all with cool tones and dreamy textures. Instructor: Heidi Ordaz.
Oil Painting • Ages 16+
Tuesdays, Jan. 6-March 24, 1-3 p.m.; $140 (12 classes)
Wednesdays, Jan. 7-March 25, 10 a.m.-noon; $140 (12 classes)
James City County Recreation Center
Create your own masterpiece while making new friends. Designed for students with some experience painting with oils. Students provide their own supplies. For a list of supplies, please contact the instructor 757-220-3755 or annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Pastels • Ages 16+
Wednesdays, Jan. 7-March 25, 1-3 p.m.; $140 (12 classes)
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 a list of supplies, contact the instructor 757-220-3755 or annekushnick@gmail.com. Instructor: Anne Kushnick.
Face Fundamentals • Ages 16+
Thursdays, Jan. 8-Feb. 5, 5:30-7 p.m.; $50
James City County Recreation Center
Unlock the skills to confidently draw the human face, one feature at a time. Face Fundamentals is a focused, skill-building class where you will learn to accurately draw eyes, noses, lips, ears and hair, while understanding how these features fit together in realistic proportions. Instructor: Heidi Ordaz.
Paint Your 2026 Word • Ages 16+
Saturday, Jan. 10, 1-4 p.m.; $25
James City County Recreation Center
Start your new year with creativity and intention! In this reflective and uplifting workshop, participants will choose a personal “word of the year” for 2026, a word that represents their focus, hope or goal—and bring it to life through paint, color, and design on canvas. Instructor: Heidi Ordaz.
Hand Building Puppets • Ages 16+
Saturdays, Jan. 17-24, 9 a.m.-noon; $25
James City County Recreation Center
Explore the playful side of clay while diving into expressive sculpture! In this creative and hands-on class, you will use hand building techniques to sculpt one-of-a-kind puppets, whether whimsical characters, abstract forms or theatrical faces. Instructor: Heidi Ordaz.
Exploring Nature: Winter Drawing Workshop • Ages 16+
Saturdays, Jan. 17-Feb. 7, 9:30 a.m.-noon; $50
Freedom Park
Pause to experience the Rhythm of the Seasons and uncover new discoveries. Nature drawing deepens one’s understanding of the natural world as it influences one’s artistic technique and creation. This five-session course introduces drawing techniques and materials. We’ll use graphite and pen-and-ink to explore natural shapes, shadows, perspective and other drawing techniques. For a materials list, contact the instructor 757-771-0677 or millerlcmiller@yahoo.com. Instructor: Linda Miller.
BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
Before & After School registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis according to space availability. To date, all school sites are operating on waitlist ONLY!
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 2025-26 School Year.
FITNESS
Fitness Court® Orientations • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, Jan. 17, 9-10 a.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 20, Noon-1 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 24, 9-10 a.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 27, Noon-1 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 31, 9-10 a.m.
Warhill Sports Complex (next to basketball courts)
The Fitness Court was funded by a grant from the Williamsburg Health Foundation to provide free access to high-quality workouts and create equitable access to exercise for citizens in James City County. A Certified Personal Trainer will conduct open orientations at the Fitness Court and will demonstrate and explain the seven exercise stations that use body weight for workouts. Stay fit and get your body moving without heading inside a gym and enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. Users are encouraged to download the free Fitness Court App in the Google Play or Apple App store. Call the Fitness Coordinator at 757-259-4222 for more information. For more information and to register, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/recreation.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Mindful Minis: Winter Yoga • Ages 5-9 FREE!
Sunday, Jan. 18, 1-1:45 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join us for a cozy indoor yoga adventure! Kids will move, stretch, and imagine their way through winter-themed poses and mindful moments. A great way to nurture body awareness, calm energy and creativity all season long.
Kids Bounce • Ages 8-13
Sunday, Jan. 11, 1-1:45 p.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.
Gait Analysis • Ages 12+ FREE!
Saturday, Jan. 17, 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 a FREE gait analysis during our Fitness Open House. You may learn why your knee hurts, or your back, or your hip – you may even catch injuries before they happen! Call 757-259-4176 to schedule your specific time slot.
Eat to Compete: Smart Nutrition for Young Athletes • Ages 12+ FREE!
Sunday, Jan. 25, 3-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Take your performance to the next level! Learn from athlete nutritionist Stephanie Militano, MS, RD, CSSD, about how proper fueling supports endurance, focus and recovery. Teens will walk away with simple, practical tips to power through practices, tournaments and school days. Great for athletes of all sports or active kids.
Healthy Eating and Diabetes • Ages 13+ FREE!
Thursday, Jan. 8, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join Caroline Fornshell, registered dietitian and nutrition expert from LWell, for an engaging talk on practical strategies to optimize your diet and wellness. Learn evidence-based tips on balanced meal planning, superfoods and mindful eating—plus actionable takeaways to support lasting, healthy habits.
Intention Flow: Yoga & Sound Healing for the New Year • Ages 14+
Friday, Jan. 2, 6:30-7:30 p.m.; $8
James City County Recreation Center
Begin 2026 with mindfulness and clarity. This class guides you through a relaxing yoga flow followed by a meditative sound bath to help release the old and invite in the new. Perfect for all levels seeking a peaceful, heart-centered start to the year.
HeartBeat Sundays: Fitness Drumming • Ages 14+ FREE!
Sunday, Jan. 4, 1:30-2:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Beat the winter blues with an energizing cardio-drumming session set to upbeat playlists! We’ll mix easy rhythms, full-body movement and mood-boosting intervals to spark endorphins, build coordination and lift your spirits through the coldest months. Beginner-friendly, no musical experience needed.
Journey Drumming Meditation • Ages 14+
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 5:30-6:30 p.m.; $8
Freedom Park
Would you benefit from meditation and deep relaxation? Journey drumming is the perfect workshop for you! Embark on a transformative inner journey, powered by the rhythm of drums. This unique fusion allows participants to connect deeply with their inner selves, while also grounding them in the world around. This class welcomes all! No previous knowledge required, just an open heart and mind.
Journey through Sound (bath) Series • Ages 14+
New Year Ritual
Friday, Jan. 16, 6-7:30 p.m.; $15
James City County Recreation Center
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 have a positive impact on our nervous system, reduce stress, improve sleep quality, enhance focus, and support overall well-being. This sound bath series will guide you to create a space where you can release tension, let go of mental chatter and connect with your inner self. No prior experience necessary. Come try something new or experience something you already love!
Techniques of Meditation • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesday, Jan. 7, 7-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Unwind and find your inner calm at our monthly Meditation Techniques Workshop. Each session introduces simple, effective practices—such as focused breathing, body scans and guided imagery—to help you reduce stress, improve concentration and cultivate mindfulness. Perfect for beginners and seasoned meditators alike. Join us to explore new methods and deepen your practice!
Thriving Together: Cancer Fitness & Wellness Series • Ages 16+ FREE!
Reshape and Rebuild – Chair Strength Training for Cancer Fitness
Monday, Jan. 12, 3:45-4:15 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join us monthly for a supportive fitness and wellness program designed for anyone affected by cancer, whether you’re currently undergoing treatment or beyond. In our inclusive and adaptable sessions, you’ll connect with others, learn exercises tailored to varied abilities and energy levels and discover the benefits of regular physical activity. Please consult your healthcare provider before participating. Come find strength, inspiration and community as we thrive together toward better health.
Prevention Starts Here: Understanding Cancer Screenings • Ages 18+ FREE!
Wednesday, Jan. 28, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Take charge of your health this new year! This educational session, led by a local public health nurse, covers the latest guidelines for cancer screening, including those for cervical and breast health. Empower yourself with the facts, find out which tests are right for you and leave with helpful community resources.
INCLUSION & THERAPEUTIC RECREATION
Buddy Art • Ages 6+ with Disabilities FREE!
Saturday, Jan. 3, 3-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
A variety of art activities are offered based on age, ability levels and interests. Children are assigned a volunteer “buddy” to work with them one-on-one. 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.
Yoga • Ages 18+ with Disabilities
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 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. 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 www.thearcgw.org.
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. Participants must complete an Inclusion Profile and assessment before each trip. Transportation provided. For information and to complete an assessment, please call 757-259-5354. JCCRC Registration is required • Registration Deadline: noon one week before each trip date.
Participants must be able to:
- walk up to 2 miles independently or with the use of a mobility device
- Effectively communicate needs either verbally or with a communication device
- Independently feed, bathe and toilet themselves or bring an aide to assist.
Peak Experiences Indoor Climbing-Richmond
Monday, Jan. 12, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $25
Try your skills at rock climbing in this state-of-the-art indoor climbing experience! No experience necessary. Pack a lunch.
Movies & Lunch
Monday, Jan. 26, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $20
Travel with us to a local theater for a matinee and enjoy lunch together at a local restaurant. Bring money for lunch.
OUTDOORS
Riparian Buffer Demonstration Garden Tours • Ages 18+
Brickyard Landing
Tour the park system’s first riparian buffer demonstration garden at Brickyard Landing Park. Learn about the important stormwater implications that a riparian buffer provides and see how you can mitigate runoff with native plantings. These same plants can be used on any property where you want to control erosion or soak up excess water. There is a $20 staffing fee required for each group and the tour takes about 45 minutes. Contact sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or call 757-603-6067 to schedule a private tour for your group.
SPECIAL EVENTS
2026 Hit the Reset Virtual 5K Run/Walk • All Ages
January 10-March 10
$25. Register early and save!
$15 until 12/31/25 and then $20 until 1/31/26.
Kick off 2026 with positivity—run or walk 3.1 miles anywhere, anytime between Jan. 10 and March 10. Registration includes a commemorative medal and T-shirt. JCC has some of the most beautiful trails in Virginia. Want an extra raffle entry? Complete your 5K on one of James City County’s scenic trails and submit a location photo! Registration closes on Feb. 21 at 10 p.m. To register, visit runsignup.com/hitthereset. Please call 757-259-4176 for more information.
Fitness Open House • All Ages
Saturday, Jan. 17, 9-11 a.m.
James City County Recreation Center
It will soon be a new year and time for a new healthy routine! Meet our instructors, reserve a spot for demo classes and receive information on all that James City County Health & Wellness has to offer. Please call 757-259-4176 for more information.
SPORTS
Intro to Pickleball • Ages 18+
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Jan. 20-29, 2-3:30 p.m.; $20
James City County Recreation Center
Tuesdays & Thursdays, Jan. 20-29, 5:30-7 p.m.; $20
Matoaka Elementary School
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 is provided.
THE LOUNGE 55+
Virginia Air & Space Center, IMAX, Hampton, VA
Tuesday, Jan. 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; $40/person, $30/Lounge member
James City County Recreation Center
Take a trip into space when we visit this official NASA visitor center. The center proudly houses over 30 historic aircraft and rare space artifacts, including the Apollo 12 Command Module Yankee Clipper, Mercury and Gemini capsules, and the Orion Pad Abort- Test Vehicle. IMAX movie “Space: The New Frontier” included. Lunch is on your own at the museum café. Spots available: 28, registration closes Jan. 20.
GENERAL INFORMATION
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 Destination Recreation Brochure. The Winter/Spring 2026 brochure will be available beginning Monday, Jan. 5!
Holiday Closures
- The James City County Recreation Center will close at 6 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, Dec. 31. Both facilities are closed New Year’s Day, Jan. 1, 2025. The facilities reopen Friday, Jan. 2.
- All County parks remain open throughout the holidays. However, some parks have stores/offices that 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 on Jan. 1, New Year’s Day. For more information, call 757-259-4200 or visit https://jamescitycountyva.gov/3257/Holiday-Closures.
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.
Inclement Weather Policy
During periods of inclement weather, the James City County Recreation Center and the Abram Frink Jr. Community Center follow the same opening and closing procedures as James City County government offices. If County offices are closed, both Centers are closed. If the County has a delayed opening or an early closing, both Centers will open or close accordingly. During closures, classes and activities held in the facilities are canceled. During weather-related incidents, please look for the latest information through County-wide communication outlets.
You can:
• Sign up for JCC Alert to have the latest closure and reopening information delivered directly to you via phone, text or email. Visit https://jamescitycountyva.gov/3276/JCC-Alert to take advantage of the feature.
• Call the James City County Recreation Center at 757-259-4200.
• Call James City County Emergency Management at 757-220-0626.
Program Sites
Brickyard Landing, 990 Brickyard Rd.
Freedom Park/Interpretive Center, 5537 Centerville Rd.
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Rd.
Warhill Sports Complex, 4900 Stadium Rd.tive Trail, 3751 John Tyler Hwy.
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 TownUpper County Park, 180 Leisure Rd.Veterans Park (Kidsburg), 3793 Ironbound RoadWarhill Sports Complex/Wanner Stadium, 4900 Stadium Dr.
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