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 April 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.
APRIL 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
Saturday, April 11, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $100 – Register
Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $100 – Register
Tuesday, April 21, 4-9 p.m.; $100 – Register
James City County Recreation Center
Interested in saving lives? The Aquatics team is hosting American Red Cross CPR & AED and First Aid courses.
American Red Cross Course – Lifeguard Certification • Ages 15+
Friday-Tuesday, April 3-7; $250
Friday-Saturday, April 10-11; $175
James City County Recreation Center
Become a certified lifeguard and learn how to prevent, recognize and respond to aquatic emergencies. This course includes hands-on training in water rescues, CPR/AED, first aid and emergency response. Participants who complete the course earn a nationally recognized Red Cross certification and are eligible for lifeguard jobs. Strong swimming skills and full participation are required. Class times are listed on the registration website.
ARTS & SPECIAL INTERESTS
Kidz Clay • Ages 10-15
Thursdays, April 16-May 14, 4:30-5:30 p.m.; $40
James City County Recreation Center
Make a mess, make some art, and make your mark…in clay! Learn hand building and explore the potter’s wheel. No experience needed. $20 materials fee (cash or check payable to Dorothy Round) due to instructor at first class. Work available for pickup after firing. Dress for mess! Instructor: Elesha Halko & Bella Halko.
Oil Painting • Ages 16+
Tuesdays, April 14-June 15, 1-3 p.m.; $120 (10 classes)
Wednesdays, April 15-June 17, 10 a.m.-noon; $120 (10 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, April 15-June 17, 1-3 p.m.; $120 (10 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.
Spring Watercolor • Ages 16+
Tuesdays, April 14-June 30, 9 a.m.-noon; $120 (10 classes)
James City County Recreation Center
Open Studio with weekly demonstrations – Abstract to Realism. Designed for beginners to intermediate. Students provide their own supplies. For a list of supplies, please contact the instructor 757-771-0677 or millerlcmiller@yahoo.com. Instructor: Linda Miller.
Kid’s Spring Cupcake Decorating Workshop • Ages 6-12
Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m.-noon; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Spring is here and flowers are blooming! We will be decorating chocolate and vanilla cupcakes in spring colors using buttercream icing. Rosebuds, Star Flowers, polka dots and some other fun techniques will make this workshop fun. Please note any food allergies at registration, and please bring two large airtight containers to take home all decorated cupcakes during the workshop or a cupcake container that holds 12 cupcakes. Please tie back long hair and bring an apron/hand towel. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier.
Mixed Media Collage Class • Ages 7-13
Wednesdays, April 1-22, 5:30-7 p.m.; $50
James City County Recreation Center
Explore. Create. Collage!
Get ready for a colorful adventure in creativity! In this playful, hands-on art class, kids learn to create their own mixed media collages using a wide variety of materials — from paper and fabric to paint, markers and found objects. Instructor: Heidi Ordaz.
Poke Embroidery • Ages 7-13
Saturday, April 18, 1-3 p.m.; $25
James City County Recreation Center
Make a splash with stitches! In this fun and beginner-friendly embroidery class, students learn the basics of poke-style (hand or punch needle) embroidery while creating their very own dolphin-themed design. Perfect for crafty kids who love sea animals, stitching or just trying something new! Instructor: Paula Guerra.
4-H Crime Solvers • Ages 11-15
Saturday, April 4, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Step into the role of detective in this mystery adventure! It’s up to you to solve the case – can you crack it before time runs out? While solving puzzles, interrogating suspects and unraveling clues, develop essential life skills from the 4-H Health Rocks! Curriculum, including decision making, stress management and refusal skills. Camp ends with a dramatic courtroom showdown to present the findings. Will the team uncover the truth? In partnership with VCE-James City County 4-H. Instructor: James City County 4H Staff.
Adult Spring Cupcake Decorating Workshop • Ages 13+
Saturday, April 4, 1-3 p.m.; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Spring is here and flowers are blooming! We will be decorating chocolate and vanilla cupcakes in spring colors using buttercream icing. Rosebuds, Star Flowers, polka dots and some other fun techniques will make this workshop fun. Please note any food allergies at registration, and please bring two large airtight containers to take home all decorated cupcakes during the workshop or a cupcake container that holds 12 cupcakes. Please tie back long hair and bring an apron/hand towel. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier.
Spring Wreath • Ages 16+
Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m.-noon; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Join us for a relaxing and hands-on workshop where you’ll create your own beautiful spring wreath to brighten your home! Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this class is the perfect way to welcome the season with fresh colors and creativity. Instructor: Heidi Ordaz.
Plan Your Garden & Starting Herbs • Ages 18+
Saturday, April 11, 5-6:30 p.m.; $45
James City County Recreation Center
Grow Your Own Flavor & Wellness
Learn how to plan a productive, personalized garden—and kick things off by planting your own indoor or outdoor herb garden! This workshop is perfect for beginners and aspiring home gardeners who want to grow fresh, useful plants for cooking, tea, or natural remedies. Instructor: Harmony Dandelion.=
BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS (REC CONNECT)
Summer 2026 and School Year 2026-27 registration is underway! All registrations are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, according to space availability.
Note: Stonehouse and Clara Byrd Baker summer camp sites are full and operating on a waitlist.
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 2026 registration is also underway!
CAMPS
Little Tykes Spring Break Days • Ages 3-5 (not currently attending kindergarten) and MUST be toilet trained
James City County Recreation Center – Multipurpose Room
Spring into Action!
Monday, April 6, 8:30 a.m.-noon; $20
Get your body moving in the springtime air! Registration deadline April 3, noon.
Bee-utiful Springtime!
Tuesday, April 7, 8:30 a.m.-noon; $20
Get your hands a little dirty with us as we plant flowers for springtime! Registration deadline April 3, noon.
Kid’s Spring Break Dessert Camp • Ages 7-12
Monday-Wednesday, April 6-8, 9 a.m.-noon; $90
Monday-Wednesday, April 6-8, 1-4 p.m.; $90
James City County Recreation Center
Spring is here and we will be hopping in the kitchen for some spring break fun! Join us for three days of desserts, spring dips, spring truffles and festive spring colors to accent our desserts and treats during this camp. Please note any food allergies at registration, and please bring two large airtight containers to take home all treats made daily during the camp. Please tie back long hair and bring an apron/hand towel. Instructor: The Williamsburg Chocolatier.
All Star Basketball Clinic • Ages 8-13
Wednesday, April 8, 9-11:30 a.m.; $25
James City County Recreation Center
Join former high school and college basketball players for a hands-on clinic. Learn passing, shooting, dribbling and other skills to be successful on the court. Lunch provided.
Fishing Camp • Ages 10-14
Tuesday-Thursday, April 7-9, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; $75
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
“Tackle” topics such as knot tying, baiting, casting, species identification and conservation in this hands-on (the rod) approach. Experience different fishing environments at multiple locations throughout the area.
Kids Clay Camp • Ages 10-15
Monday-Friday, April 6-10, 1:30-3:30 p.m.; $100
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy spring break while hand building with clay. A variety of techniques will be explored such as pinch pot creations, building from slabs, carving and more. Work available for pickup after firing. $35 Materials fee. (Cash or check payable to Dorothy Round) is due to instructor at first class. Instructor: Elesha Halko.
FITNESS
Fitness Court® Orientations • Ages 14+ FREE!
Warhill Sports Complex (near basketball courts)
Saturdays, April 4-25, 9-10 a.m.
Tuesday, April 7-28, Noon-1 p.m.
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.
Stretch (PNF) Class • Ages 14+ FREE!
Thursdays, April 16-30, 2-4 p.m.
Saturdays, April 18-25, 11 a.m.-1 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+
Family Fit & Flow: Spring into Fitness (Move More Month)
Friday, April 3, 6-6:45 p.m.; $3
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 the age of 12.
Journey Drumming Meditation – PINK MOON • Ages 14+
Wednesday, April 1, 5:30-7 p.m.; $8
Freedom Park (playground shelter)
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.
Grounded & Gritty: Mindful Movement for Men • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, April 4, 1-2 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Discover how yoga can enhance focus, reduce stress and increase resilience. This workshop-style class combines stretching, breathing and simple mindfulness techniques tailored for men’s physical and mental well-being. Ideal for all levels.
Walk with Ease • Ages 14+ FREE!
Monday, April 11, 10-11 a.m.
Greensprings Interpretive Trail
Being active is the secret to staying healthy, and walking is a great way to get moving! Join a guided walking group designed for individuals with arthritis or chronic pain. Improve flexibility, strength, and mental well-being while connecting with others.
Drumming for Wellness Series • Ages 14+ FREE!
Saturday, April 25, 4-5:30 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Spring Circle: New Energy, New Beat
Let the beat guide your health journey! Drumming for Wellness is a quarterly drumming series that blends movement, mindfulness and music to help you release stress, restore energy and reconnect with your inner rhythm. Each session is inspired by the season, incorporating themed drumming patterns, breathwork and grounding exercises that promote emotional balance, creativity and connection. No musical experience needed, just come ready to feel the pulse and join the groove!
Thriving Together: Cancer Fitness & Wellness Series • Ages 16+ FREE!
Monday, April 6, 3:45-4:15 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Healing Flow – Chair Yoga for Healing & Hope
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.
Meditation Foundations: 3-Week Series • Ages 16+ FREE!
Wednesdays, April 8-22, 7-8 p.m.
James City County Recreation Center
Whether you’re a seasoned practitioner or brand new, all are welcome in this three-week community meditation series. Each week introduces a different meditation style—such as mindfulness, mantra and guided visualization—along with tools to deepen your practice. You’ll be gently guided in and out of each session as you discover techniques that promote focus, relaxation and inner calm.
INCLUSION & THERAPEUTIC RECREATION
Sensory Sound Stroll • Ages 18+ with Disabilities
Monday, April 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; $15
James City County Recreation Center
Want to experience nature like never before? Come with us for a sound walk followed by relaxing meditation. Participants will discover a new way to appreciate nature by learning and listening to the different sounds of the outside world. Bring a lunch.
Yoga • Ages 18+ with Disabilities
Tuesday, April 28, 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.
OUTDOORS
“Take Your Best Shot” Spring Photo Contest • All Ages FREE!
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 and Jamestown Beach Event Park. Photographs will be judged by the public and selected images will be featured on the County’s website, social media and in the kiosk at the respective park locations. The contest will run March 20–April 17. For more information, contest guidelines and to submit a photograph, please visit https://www.jamescitycountyva.gov/756/Parks-Trails.
Spring Bloom Bingo • All Ages
Various Parks
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.
Beaver Walk • All Ages FREE!
Tuesday, April 7, 10-11 a.m.
Greensprings Interpretive Trail
Did you know that beavers have orange teeth and scent from their castor glands is used in many perfumes? Join us at Greensprings Interpretive Trail for a short nature hike to observe beaver activity, search for dams and lodges and observe how these engineers of nature help shape landscapes. No registration required. Weather permitting.
Invasive Species Mapping • All Ages
Wednesday, April 15, 4-5:30 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park (playground shelter)
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!
Saturday, April 18, 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.
Campfire Social • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, April 18, 7-8 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Come celebrate warmer weather 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.
Archery Open Range • Ages 9+
Mondays & Wednesdays, April 13-22, 5:30-6:30 p.m.; $20
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, April 14-23, 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 and compound bow and 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, April 14-23, 5:45-6:45 p.m.; $50
Upper County Park
In this introduction to use, handling and shooting recurve and compound bows, participants will learn proper technique and focus on upper body strength. Equipment provided or bring your own (instructors will inspect for safety before approval for use during the session).
Forest Explorers Friday • All Ages FREE!
All About Birds
Friday, April 10, 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Freedom Park
Spring migration is well underway! Join us to learn about the type of birds that frequent backyards, coastal waterways and more in this interactive program. Learn about bird calls, play bird bingo and take a bird walk.
What is Growing in the Meadow at Brickyard Landing Park? • All Ages FREE!
Wednesday, April 8, 9:30-11 a.m.
Brickyard Landing
Come take a stroll through the recently planted native plant meadow at Brickyard Landing Park. Come visit JCC’s newest park and see what is growing while learning about native, host plants and maybe some butterflies will show up too! See the difference between planting seeds, plugs and larger potted plants. No registration required.
Freedom Park Full Moon Hikes • All Ages FREE!
Pink Moon
Thursday, April 2, 7:30-8:30 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.
Marathon on the Trails • All Ages
Celebrate Trails Day, held annually on the fourth Saturday of April, encourages Americans to enjoy trails all over the nation. James City County Parks & Recreation invites you to run, walk or bike a marathon distance of 26.2 miles on our local trails by April 25. Register online by April 1 for $8 to receive a medal, recommended trails with routes and full event details. Various parks, facilities, trails and trail surfaces will be recommended to complete this challenge; or you can also forge your own path to reach your 26.2-mile goal on your own trails or blueways! For questions, contact sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or call 757-603-6067.
Intro to Biking • Ages 5-11 FREE!
Saturday, April 18, 2-4 p.m.
Bring your bicycle out for this introductory course on cycling. We will be going over the rules of the road, bike safety, and providing basic bike maintenance for your ride. Class will end with a group bike ride down Virginia Capital Trail. Helmets are required for this course. Meet at Jamestown High School parking lot.
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 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 $20 staffing fee required for each group and the tour takes about 45 minutes. Contact sarah.oreilly@jamescitycountyva.gov or phone 757-603-6067 to set up a private tour for your group.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Revolutionary Rhythms Weekend • All Ages
Friday, April 17-Sunday, April 19 • Various Times
Jamestown Beach Event Park
This commemorative celebration offers events for all ages, featuring national musical performances ($), a 3D drone show, the VA250 Mobile Museum, food vendors ($), local crafters, family-friendly activities and more. Organized by James City County and CultureFix. For information on becoming a vendor or volunteer, contact Parks & Recreation at parks.rec@jamescitycountyva.gov. For more information about the event or to purchase concert tickets, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/4128.
Legacy Hall Showcase • All Ages
Sunday, April 26, 1-4 p.m.
Legacy Hall in New Town
Planning a special event and need the perfect venue? Visit Legacy Hall to explore our beautiful space and meet local vendors who can help bring your vision to life! Ideal for birthdays, banquets, weddings, and other private functions. Bring your event planner, decorator and anyone else involved to ensure your day is unforgettable. Whether you’re interested in renting or have an existing booking and want to learn more, this showcase is for you! Enjoy refreshments and enter for a chance to win door prizes. For more information or to become a vendor, please email legacy.hall@jamescitycountyva.gov.
SPORTS
Full Pint Soccer • Ages 6-8
Thursdays, April 16-May 7, 7:15-8 p.m.; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Develop balance, movement and soccer skills in a positive sports environment. Half Pint focuses on individual technical development, while Full Pint is designed to hone those skills and introduce team play.
Jump Shots • Ages 6-8
Tuesdays, April 14-May 5, 7:15-8 p.m.; $30
James City County Recreation Center
Time to up the game! This basketball course is designed to introduce players to team play and dynamics in addition to honing other fundamental and technical skills.
Spring Adult Co-Ed Soccer • Women 18+, Men 30+
Sundays, April 12-June 14
Warhill Sports Complex
Seven weeks of league play culminates in end-of-season playoffs to determine the league winner. Register your team under the captain’s name. Teams must verbally commit before April 5 by emailing joshua.lavrinovich@jamescitycountyva.gov. All players within the team must register individually but a full team fee of $750 is due upon registering.
TEENS
Spring Break Trips for Teens • Ages 10-14 (current 5th grade students included)
James City County Recreation Center
Enjoy spring break fun with exciting trips and hands-on activities. Registration deadline: April 3, noon (or until full); register early, space is limited. Bring lunch daily, unless otherwise noted*. Activity calendars will be sent to parents before the program start date.
Rollin’ Into Fun!
Tuesday, April 7, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; $25
Lace up your skates and hit the floor at Haygood Roller Skating Center*! Enjoy great music, smooth moves and plenty of laughs as everyone glides, spins and roll their way to a great time.
Please bring lunch.
Putt Putt Party Adventure!
Wednesday, April 8, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; $25
Grab your putters and get ready for a day of nonstop fun at Putt-Putt Fun Center*! From mini golf and arcade games, this trip is packed with friendly competition and excitement around every corner. Please bring lunch.
Reel Fun Fishing Day!
Thursday, April 9, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; $25
Spend the day outdoors at Little Creek Park* with a perfect mix of fishing and food! Cast your line, relax by the water and wrap up the fun with a delicious cookout filled with great food, laughter and friends! Lunch is included.
*Trips subject to change
THE LOUNGE 55+
Afternoon Tea at The Jefferson Hotel, Richmond • Ages 55+
Tuesday, April 21, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; $80/person, $70/Lounge member
James City County Recreation Center
Having afternoon tea at The Jefferson Hotel is an experience, from the moment you walk through the doors you know it’s going to be a special outing. The menu includes sandwiches, scones, pastries and teas. Spots available: 27; non-Lounge member registration opens one week after brochure release; registration closes April 14.
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 is closed Sunday, April 5, in observance of Easter. All County parks, including park stores/offices, are open on Easter Sunday.
Get ready for a splash of fun for everyone! The Spring/Summer 2026 Destination Recreation Activity Brochure is here and highlights a season of great programs, events and activities for all ages, interests and abilities! This edition details all of the department’s offerings through August.
This year, our annual Project 547: Longest Day of Play event is on June 21, the longest day of the year, which also happens to be Father’s Day! Join us to be part of a statewide initiative, Play All Day VA! We’re celebrating the summer solstice with a full day of free, fun programs and facility access. Also, this summer, look for an awesome variety of summer camps, the opening of the outdoor pools Memorial Day weekend, exclusive Day Trips for ages 55+, plus soak in the summer days with your returning special events and new initiatives, including Zumba under the Stars, Firefly Field Day at Freedom Park and more!
Upcoming Special Events & Programs
Revolutionary Rhythms Weekend
April 17-19 • Various Events & Times
Jamestown Beach Event Park
This commemorative celebration offers something for all ages, with national performances by Plain White T’s (Friday, April 17) and Kool & the Gang (Saturday, April 18), followed by a 3D drone show after Saturday’s concert. The weekend also features the VA250 Mobile Museum, a family-friendly festival with food vendors ($), local artisans and hands-on historical activities, plus guided driving tours on Sunday, April 19. For the full schedule or to purchase concert tickets, visit jamescitycountyva.gov/4128. Hosted by James City County in partnership with CultureFix.
Legacy Hall Showcase • All Ages! FREE!
Sunday, April 26 • 1-4 p.m.
Legacy Hall in New Town
Planning a special event and need the perfect venue? Visit Legacy Hall to explore our beautiful space and meet local vendors who can help bring your vision to life! Legacy Hall is the ultimate setting for any celebration, ideal for birthdays, banquets, weddings and other private functions. Bring your event planner, decorator and anyone else involved to ensure your day is unforgettable. Whether you’re interested in renting or have an existing booking and want to learn more, this showcase is for you! Enjoy refreshments and enter for a chance to win door prizes. For more information, please email legacy.hall@jamescitycountyva.gov.
Bikes Out of Hibernation • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, May 2 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Jamestown Settlement parking lot
Bring in that neglected bicycle for a free once-over to 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 FREE!
Wednesdays, May 6-June 10 • 5-8 p.m.
Sullivan Square in New Town (behind Legacy Hall)
Bring your lawn chairs, picnic baskets, and families out to the outdoor concerts in Sullivan Square to hear local bands perform and enjoy great local beers. Food and beverages available for purchase onsite. Presented by James City County Parks & Recreation, Culturefix and New Town Commercial Association.
WonderFest • All Ages NEW!
Saturday, May 16 • 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Parking: $10/car (cash or card)
Dive into WonderFest— a family-friendly adventure where the 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! Check social media (facebook.com/jccparks or instagram.com/jccparks) after April 15 for theme clues!
Tails on the Trail • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, June 6 • 9-11 a.m.
Greensprings Interpretive Trail
Did you know the first Saturday in June is National Trails Day? Get active with your pet and join the Heritage Humane Society for this kick-off event! This self-guided adventure will lead you through the Greensprings Trail with your pup in a roughly two-mile loop.
Capital Color Ride • All Ages
Saturday, June 6 • 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
$15/person
Enjoy this “colorful” biking event along the Virginia Capital Trail. To learn more or register, visit runsignup.com/capitalcolorride.
Freedom Fest • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, June 13 • 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Freedom Park
Join the NAACP and James City County at America’s First Free Black Settlement in honor of Juneteenth! Enjoy live music, readings and performances as well as a presentation on the history of the Juneteenth holiday. Local vendors and food will be onsite ($).
Project: FiveFortySeven • All Ages FREE!
Sunday, June 21 • 5:47 a.m.-11:59 p.m.
Multiple locations
Out late or up early? Celebrate the summer solstice by joining Parks & Recreation for the Longest Day of Play! On June 21, rise and shine at 5:47 a.m. as we cater to the sun and offer recreational activities all day long! This year, Project: FiveFortySeven will participate in the statewide initiative, Play All Day VA, along with other parks and recreation agencies around the state! Explore new parks or try out a new activity—all for free! Featured activities include:
• Trackless Train Rides
• Fitness Court Orientations
• Special Youth Programs
• Free Paddlecraft Rentals
• Free Outdoor Pool Access
• Social Media Photo Contest with prizes
• Free Centers Access
• …and more!
For more information, a full schedule of programs and preregistration requirements, please visit the Parks & Recreation Facebook page beginning May 1. Some programs and activities are weather permitting. #jccparksrec
Student Art Show & Exhibit • All Ages FREE!
June 18 – July 18*
Williamsburg Library
Come view and admire the works of Parks & Recreation’s oil painting and pastel students! Anne Kushnick’s students will display their unique pieces with some available for purchase.
*Exhibit available during library hours
Spencer’s Ordinary Wreath Ceremony • All Ages FREE!
Saturday, June 27 • 10-11 a.m.
Freedom Park
The Williamsburg Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will conduct a memorial service in honor of the valiant Americans who gave their lives in the Battle of Spencer’s Ordinary on June 26, 1781. A series of skirmishes occurred in the woods and meadows of Freedom Park between units of Lord Cornwallis and those of the French General, Marquis de Lafayette. Immediately following the Spencer’s Ordinary wreath ceremony, the color guard will offer a ceremonial musket volley.
Commemoration of James City County Resolves • All Ages FREE! NEW!
Saturday, June 27 • 11 a.m.-noon
Freedom Park
The Williamsburg chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution will host a commemoration recalling the James City County Resolves. On July 1, 1774, discussion and enactment of the James City County Resolves took place at Isham Allen’s Ordinary near where the Lightfoot Marketplace and Wawa are located on Richmond Road. The Resolves, which banned all local trade with England, were enacted in support of the people of Boston, Massachusetts, following punitive actions taken by the British Crown following the Boston Tea Party.
Drool in the Pool • All Ages
Saturday, Sept. 13 • 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
$10/dog
Enjoy the doggie swim day that only comes once a year! Pool passes for your dog will be available at the gate. Music, refreshments and goodies featured! All proceeds benefit the animals of Heritage Humane Society. For more details, visit heritagehumane.org.
Harvest Festival • All Ages
Saturday, Sept. 19 • 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
Parking: $10/car (cash or card)
Join us for this fun, annual fall tradition which draws families back year after year! Exciting FREE kids’ activities including face painting, arts and crafts, inflatables, music and more! And don’t miss our scarecrow stuffing attraction, SCARECROW ROW ($20/each; includes all supplies). First come, first served while supplies last. Local merchandise ($), food ($) and community vendors on site.
Inclement Weather
Outdoor events are weather permitting. In the event of inclement weather, call the Activities Hotline at 757-259-3232 for any changes in schedule.
Program Sites
PROGRAM SITES
Brickyard Landing, 990 Brickyard Road
Chickahominy Riverfront Park, 1350 John Tyler Hwy.
Freedom Park/Interpretive Center, 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.
Upper County Park, 180 Leisure Rd.
Veterans Park, 3793 Ironbound Rd.
Warhill Sports Complex, 4900 Stadium Rd.
Jamestown Settlement, 2110 Jamestown Rd.
Legacy Hall, 4301 New Town Ave. in New Town
Sullivan Square in New Town (behind Legacy Hall), 4301 New Town Ave.
Williamsburg Library, 515 Scotland St.
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