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 May Events through James City County Parks & Recreation.
To register for the programs and events outlined below, please visit us online or call 757-259-4200.
MAY 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 Spring/Summer 2026 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
American Red Cross Course – CPR/AED & First Aid • Ages 14+
Saturday, May 9, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $100
Tuesday, May 12, 4-9 p.m.; $100
Saturday, May 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $100
James City County Recreation Center
Interested in saving lives? The Aquatics team is hosting American Red Cross CPR & AED and First Aid courses.
Make a Splash this summer at our Outdoor Pools!
Summer fun starts here! James City County’s two outdoor pools open on May 23, Memorial Day weekend, kicking off a season full of sunshine, swimming and smiles. Whether you’re looking to splash with the kids, enjoy a relaxing day poolside, or stay active in the water, our pools have something for everyone. From toddler-friendly areas and family open swims to refreshing laps for grown-ups, it’s the perfect way to make memories and beat the heat all summer long. Get your Summer Season Pass! Purchase passes before May 1 and receive $5 off individual passes and $10 off family passes!
IN PERSON
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Rd.
Abram Frink Jr. Community Center, 8901 Pocahontas Trail
ONLINE (Xplor Rec account required)
Visit https://jamescitycountyparksandrec.perfectmind.com/ to log in to your Xplor Rec account. Once logged in, click the “Outdoor Pool Passes (2026)” text on the top bar, then select the membership you’re interested in purchasing. Have questions? Give us a call at 757-259-4200.
American Red Cross Swim Lessons • Ages 6 months to Adult
Swim lessons offered for all ages! In partnership with Coast Guard Blue Dolphins (CGBD), these skill-based group swim lessons emphasize essential water safety, stroke development and confidence-building in a supportive, encouraging environment. For dates and registration information, visit the CGBD website: https://www.cgbdswim.org/
Memorial Day Kick-off • All Ages
Monday, May 25, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park Pool
Upper County Park Pool
Celebrate the start of summer at UCP and CRP Pool! Join us for a splash-filled day of fun and enjoy FREE ice pops for everyone entering the pool (while supplies last). Bring the family, dive in and make this Memorial Day the start of your best summer yet!
Before & After School Programs
School Year 2026-27 registration is underway! All registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, according to space availability.
Summer 2026 registration is operating on a waitlist. All summer camp sites are full!
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.
T.O.P Summer Camp is full and operating on a waitlist.
FITNESS
Fitness Court® Orientations • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturdays, May 2-30, 9-10 a.m.
Tuesdays, May 5-26, Noon-1 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex (next to basketball courts)
A Certified Personal Trainer conducts open orientations at the Fitness Court and demonstrates and explains the seven body-weight exercise stations. 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.
Stretch (PNF) Class • Ages 14+ FREE!
Thursday, May 7-28, 2-4 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
We’re excited to introduce Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) with Personal Trainer Daniel Green, who is a certified Flexologist. This stretching class combines gentle muscle contractions with assisted stretches to improve flexibility, mobility, and overall performance. Perfect for anyone looking to move better and reduce injury risk—PNF stretching helps your body go further, safer. Join or observe a class to experience the benefits firsthand and take your recovery and movement to the next level.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Families in Motion: Monthly Fitness Series • Ages 5+
Friday, May 29, 6-6:45 p.m.; $3
Bounce Fitness: May Moves (National Physical Fitness Month)
James City County Recreation Center
If you’re looking for something fun and healthy to do with your family, this is it! Each month on a Friday evening, we’ll roll out a fresh, themed workout. We’ll also spotlight that month’s health topic, so you leave with more than just sweaty smiles. Classes run for 45 minutes, are fun for all ages and require no prior experience. Bring your family, your friends and your energy—let’s get fit together! An adult must accompany children under 12.
Mindful Minis: Summer Yoga • Ages 6-8 FREE!
Sunday, May 17, 1-1:45 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join us for a “sun” salutation yoga adventure! Kids move, stretch and imagine their way through summer-themed poses and mindful moments. A great way to nurture body awareness, calm energy and creativity all summer long.
Snack Lab: Make-It-Yourself Fuel • Ages 10+ FREE!
Thursday, May 21, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Kids get creative in this fun, interactive snack lab focused on smart fueling for play, sports and summer adventures. Explore easy, no-cook snack ideas using familiar foods and learn how to pair nutrients for lasting energy. Snacks are designed to be simple, affordable and kid-approved.
Zumba Under the Stars – Silent Disco Edition • Ages 13+
Friday, May 8, 7-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Celebrate Family Wellness Month by dancing the night away in this high-energy outdoor Zumba class featuring wireless headphones. Participants move to upbeat music while receiving clear instructions through headphones, creating an immersive fitness experience without extra disruption. This fun, all-levels class boosts cardiovascular health, energy and stress relief while bringing families and the community together through movement and music. No experience necessary. Headphones provided.
Journey Drumming Meditation • Ages 13+
Wednesday, May 20, 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! Come 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 them. This class welcomes all! No prior knowledge is required, just an open heart and mind.
Learn to Row • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, May 2, 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. Focus step-by-step on proper form so that you can learn and appreciate this complete, full-body, low-impact, lifelong exercise.
Walk Well: Mindful Walking Series • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, May 9, 9-10 a.m.
Powhatan Creek Trail
This guided walking program combines gentle movement with mindfulness and body awareness. Participants will learn proper walking mechanics, breathing techniques and strategies to make walking a more effective and enjoyable form of exercise. Routes vary throughout the summer.
Fresh Air Fitness: Strength & Cardio • Ages 14+
Monday, May 18, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex – Fitness Court
Let’s take your workout outdoors! This energizing fitness class blends strength and cardio to support heart health, build functional strength, and boost overall well-being, all while enjoying the fresh air and park setting. Designed for all fitness levels, this class highlights the Parks & Recreation mission of connecting people to movement, nature and community.
Glow Ride: Silent Headphones Edition • Ages 14+
Saturday, May 30, 10-11 a.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Light up your ride in this visually fun and immersive indoor cycling experience using wireless silent headphones and glow accessories. Participants pedal to upbeat, motivating music delivered directly through headphones, creating a high-energy workout. This all-levels ride supports cardiovascular health, boosts mood and builds confidence in a welcoming, low-pressure environment. No cycling experience required. Headphones provided.
Strong Body, Peaceful Mind: Women’s Health Month Yoga & Meditation • Ages 14+ FREE!
Wednesday, May 27, 6-7 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Join us this Women’s Health Month for a special yoga and meditation class designed to nourish your body and calm your mind. Combine invigorating yoga flows to build strength and stability with soothing meditation practices to cultivate inner peace and resilience. This class is perfect for women of all levels. No prior experience needed.
Summer Sound Bath Series • Ages 14+
Friday, May 29, 6:30-7:30 p.m.; $10
James City County Recreation Center
Unwind and reset during this immersive sound bath experience featuring crystal singing bowls. Participants rest comfortably while soothing tones and gentle vibrations fill the space, helping calm the nervous system, release tension and support deep relaxation. This class offers a peaceful pause from the busyness of summer and is suitable for all experience levels.
Thriving Together: Cancer Fitness & Wellness Series • Ages 16+ FREE!
Monday, May 11, 3:30-4:15 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
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.
INCLUSION & THERAPEUTIC RECREATION
Go Ape! • Ages 5+ with Disabilities FREE!
*must be at least 39 inches tall
Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m.-noon
Freedom Park
Climb through the trees and experience zip lines and obstacles! Challenge yourself to find adventure off the ground! Bring a picnic lunch to socialize after your adventure. A participating adult (18+) must supervise every two children. Meet at Freedom Park, 5537 Centerville Rd. Registration required; deadline May 1, noon.
Buddy Ball • Ages 5+ with Disabilities
Buddy Baseball is provided in partnership with the Williamsburg Youth Baseball League. Players are assisted, one-on-one, where appropriate, by volunteer buddies, who make it possible to adapt play to individual player needs. For details, call Jackson Sasser at 804-699-5036. WSC
Outdoors
Spring Bloom Bingo • All Ages NEW! FREE!
Learn what’s blooming in nature around our parks. Grab a Bingo sheet from Freedom Park, Veterans Park or the James City County Marina and start looking for the blossoms in your area. Find them all and return your completed Bingo card to one of the listed locations to receive a themed sticker.
JCCPR Spring Geocaching Challenge • All Ages
Take on the challenge of finding five new geocaches placed out at our parks! Pick up a brochure guide from the James City County Recreation Center (5301 Longhill Rd.) and make your way around James City County to find all five caches. Geocache coordinates and clues available on geocaching.com. All locations can be found using a smartphone or a GPS tracker. Brochure and coordinates available starting March 20. Log all five caches and turn in a completed brochure for a prize. Brochures must be turned in by June 30. For questions about the challenge, email joshua.lavrinovich@jamescitycountyva.gov.
Freedom Park Full Moon Hikes • All Ages FREE!
Flower Moon
Friday, May 1, 8-9 p.m.
Blue Moon
Sunday, May 31, 8:30-9:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Come explore us AFTER DARK during the full moon each month March-November! Freedom Park closes at sunset; however, Multiuse Trail 3 only remains open for this self-guided hike. 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 closing time. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Campfire Social • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, May 2, 7-8 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Celebrate summer with a good old-fashioned campfire gathering at Chickahominy Riverfront Park! Enjoy s’mores, activities, storytelling and more around the campfire overlooking beautiful Gordon Creek. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Stargazing with NASA Skywatcher Club • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, May 2, 8-10 p.m.
Upper County Park
Come Stargaze with NASA Skywatcher Astronomy Club! The NASA Skywatcher Astronomy Club will have an observing session to share their knowledge, experience and love of astronomy. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Foundations of Foraging • All Ages NEW! FREE!
Sunday, May 3, 2:30-3:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Food is all around us if you know where to look. Learn basic guidelines on how to forage safely and sustainably. We’ll learn to identify some common spring plants to forage and provide recipes you can use to try them out. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Invasive Species Mapping • All Ages NEW! FREE!
Wednesday, May 13, 6-7:30 p.m.
Warhill Sports Complex (meet near Wanner Stadium trailhead)
Join an informal invasive species management team to help identify invasive plant species within the County parks. Download the iNaturalist app and contribute to citizen science by helping us map and manage our natural spaces! Smartphones and cellular service are preferred for this program. No experience necessary; preregistration is encouraged, but not required. Weather permitting. Contact 757-603-6067 or sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov for questions.
Veterans Bark and Play • All Ages FREE!
Friday, May 15, 10 a.m.-noon
Veterans Park
Join us for a self-guided play day at the Off-Leash Area at Veterans Park. We’re setting up an exciting obstacle course and bringing out engaging toys for your dog to enjoy. It’s a fantastic opportunity for them to play and burn off energy in a fun, new way. Give your companion a great workout and a wonderful change of pace! No registration required. Weather permitting.
Forest Explorers Friday • All Ages NEW! FREE!
Ecosystem Exploration
Friday, May 15, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
What makes a healthy ecosystem? Come learn about food webs, habitat and the ecosystem at Freedom Park. Learn through playing games at various stations in the park. Meet at the Interpretive Center. All ages welcome, but the activities focus on elementary school-age children. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Kayaking & Constellations • Ages 5+ NEW!
Sunday, May 31, 8:30-10 p.m.; $15
Powhatan Creek Park
Dip your paddle into the moonlit waters for this night paddle. The Blue “micromoon” the smallest full moon of the year, will provide enough light to paddle by while also allowing us to see the stars. Round trip is approximately one mile of kayaking on calm waters with mild current. Beginners welcome; children 5-12 are permitted only on a tandem kayak/canoe with a guardian 18 or older. Registration required. Weather permitting.
Archery Open Range • Ages 9+
Mondays & Wednesdays, May 11-20, 5-6:30 p.m.; $25
Upper County Park
Designed for experienced archers to practice and hone their skills. Equipment provided or bring your own (instructors will inspect for safety before approval for use during the session).
Archery 101 • Ages 9-15
Tuesdays & Thursdays, May 12-21, 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 and proper range procedures. Equipment provided or bring your own (instructors will inspect for safety before approval for use during the session).
Skating Trips: Pole Green Skatepark • Ages 12+
Saturday, May 16, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; $10
James City County Recreation Center
Bring your skateboard and helmet to get some practice in on this day trip to Pole Green Skatepark. Transportation provided. Please bring a packed lunch. We will meet at the James City County Recreation Center.
Tubing on the Rappahannock • Ages 12+
Saturday, May 23, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $35
James City County Recreation Center
Join us on this day trip to Fredericksburg, VA, where we’ll take inflatable tubes down the Rappahannock River. Please bring a packed lunch. We will meet at the James City County Recreation Center.
Private Free Black Settlement Tour • Ages 12+
Freedom Park
Tour one of the first Free Black Settlements in the United States right here in Freedom Park. Come hear historical facts, information about the land and tour the settlement’s dwellings that are historically accurate for the early 1800s. Private tours must be arranged in advance and are based upon staff availability. There’s a $20 staffing fee required for each group and the tour takes about 45 minutes. Contact sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or phone 757-603-6067 to set up a private tour for your group.
Riparian Buffer Demonstration Garden Tours • Ages 14+
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’s a $20 staffing fee required for each group and the tour takes about 45 minutes. Contact sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or phone 757-603-6067 to set up a private tour for your group.
County Park Tour • Ages 16+
Friday, May 29, 5-8 p.m.; $10
James City County Recreation Center
Have you been able to visit all the parks that James City County Parks & Recreation has to offer? Join us on select dates to tour the green spaces and park amenities that make our County so special. We’ll tour many of our major parks and discuss future park plans. Transportation provided. Plan accordingly to board and unload a 14-passenger bus and walk short distances to tour park amenities. Registration closes one week before tour date. Weather permitting.
Beginner’s Mountain Bike Ride • Ages 18+ FREE!
Saturday, May 16, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Freedom Park
Are you new to mountain biking and looking to ride with a group? Join one of Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association’s group rides. EVMA volunteers offer basic mountain bike instruction and answer any questions. Volunteers then lead a moderate-paced ride, with stops for regrouping. Bikes and helmets required; appropriate attire and water are recommended. Visit www.EVMA.org or email evmamembership@gmail.com for more information. Meet in the Free Black Settlement Parking Lot. Weather permitting.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Bikes Out of Hibernation • All Ages
Saturday, May 2 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jamestown Settlement parking lot
Bring in that neglected bicycle for a free once-over and get it ready for the cycling season! Representatives from local bike shops, the Williamsburg Area Bicyclists and BikeWalk Williamsburg will be on hand to offer safety inspections, adjustments and tire pumping. Free helmets and helmet fittings, while supplies last.
New Town Tunes • All Ages
Wednesdays, May 6-June 10 • 5-8 p.m.
Sullivan Square in New Town (behind Legacy Hall)
Come enjoy the Spring concert series in the heart of New Town! Enjoy local food ($) and drinks ($) while enjoying a variety of musical artists. Lawn chairs, blankets, coolers and pets allowed. Weekly band information available at jamescitycountyva.gov/3122/specialevents. Co-hosted by New Town Commercial Association and CultureFix.
WonderFest • All Ages
Saturday, May 16 • 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park • $10/car
Dive into WonderFest—a family-friendly adventure where the event theme is a mystery waiting to be uncovered! Explore hands-on activities, thrilling performances, and surprises around every corner. Bring your curiosity and imagination for a day full of unforgettable wonder!
SPORTS
Next Step From Beginner Pickleball Clinic • Ages 18+
Wednesdays & Fridays, May 6-15, 3-4:30 p.m.; $30
Veterans Park
This clinic is intended for players who have taken a beginner clinic or regularly play pickleball and understand the game, but want to improve their paddle and movement skills. The course focuses on improving players’ serves, returns, forehands and backhands, and works on basic court movement to develop a good core of pickleball skills.
Intermediate Fundamentals Pickleball Clinic • Ages 18+
Wednesdays & Fridays, May 20-29, 3-4:30 p.m.; $30
Veterans Park
Learn the techniques, skills and basic strategies needed to become intermediate-level pickleball players. We’ll focus on shot placement, player movement and improve understanding of strategies needed to get to the intermediate level. Intended for players who have taken the Next Step From Beginner Pickleball Clinic, or who have already been playing pickleball regularly and know how to play the game and want to work on improving their paddle and movement skills.
Pickleball Skills Clinic: Serve and Return • Ages 18+
Thursday, May 14, 5-7 p.m.; $15
Veterans Park
Improve your serve and return skills, focusing on developing consistency and becoming accurate and strategic. Players split time between serving and returning while being coached to improve results. The session includes instructions on how to get to the kitchen line following serves and returns.
THE LOUNGE
Fraud Prevention Presentations • Ages 55+ FREE!
Avoiding Healthcare Scams
Monday, May 4, 1 p.m.
AI (Artificial Intelligence) Scams
Monday, May 11, 1 p.m.
Avoiding Everyday Scams
Monday, May 18, 1 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Learn how to recognize signs of fraud and scams, and educate yourself on ways to prevent them. Presented by Virginia Senior Medicare Patrol State Director Shawn Smith. After lunch dessert snacks are provided. Registration required.
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 Spring/Summer 2026 Brochure.
Holiday Closures
The James City County Recreation Center and Abram Frink Jr. Community Center will be closed on Monday, May 25, in observance of Memorial Day. All County parks, including park stores/offices, are open on Memorial Day.
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
Brickyard Landing, 990 Brickyard Rd.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Hwy.
Freedom Park/Interpretive Center, 5537 Centerville Rd.
James City County Recreation Center, 5301 Longhill Rd.
Powhatan Creek Park, 1831 Jamestown Road
Sullivan Square in New Town (behind Legacy Hall), 4301 New Town Ave.
Upper County Park, 180 Leisure Rd., Toano
Veterans Park, 3793 Ironbound Rd.
Warhill Sports Complex, 4900 Stadium Rd.
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