Gloucester Parks, Recreation & Tourism Events

 

GLO TOGETHER: INCLUSIVE RECREATION PROGRAM – NEW OFFERING!

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is introducing Glo Together is an inclusive, multi-activity program designed for individuals with autism, physical disabilities, and other support needs, ages 5-12. We provide an adaptive environment where participants can explore sports, arts, and other engaging activities while developing movement, creativity, self-expression, and social skills. Our goal is to build confidence, foster friendships, and celebrate each person’s unique abilities. Through a welcoming and supportive community, Glo Together creates opportunities for everyone to participate, connect, and shine.

More information about upcoming programming will be available online beginning Sunday, November 1st. Interested in volunteering? Contact Paula Asbell pasbell@gloucesterva.info

 

TOUCH A TRUCK

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring is sponsoring Touch A Truck at Old Page Grounds on Sunday, November 1st from 12 – 4 PM. No registration is required for the general public. Trucks who are interested in participating visit us online to register.

 

STAYING SHARP: SENIOR ACTIVITIES - NEW OFFERINGS!

Parks, Recreation & Tourism invites adults ages 50 and older to participate in Staying Sharp Senior activities, featuring games, crafts, and opportunities to socialize. Bingo will be held at the Stewart Building on January 27th and February 24th, from 10:30 AM–noon, for $10. Additional activities include Finger Crochet Scarf with Mindy on January 20th, from 9:00 AM–noon at the Stewart Building, for $20; Candle Making with Candle Euphoria on February 11th, from 1:00–3:00 PM at Beaverdam Park, for $40; and Kinusaiga Craft with Mindy on February 24th, from 9:00 AM–noon at the Stewart Building, for $25. Supplies are included for the craft activities.

 

KARATE

Parks, Recreation & Tourism offers Shorinji Ryu Japanese Karate with Sensei Brian Jensen at T.C. Walker Gymnasium on Mondays and Thursdays. Classes are available for children ages 4–7, ages 8–12, teens ages 13 and older, and families. Instruction focuses on balance, strength, self-discipline, and confidence, with traditional kata forms that may be used in AAU or open tournaments. The current session runs November through January, with holiday breaks, and the next session begins the week of February 1. Fees range from $35–$45, depending on class and age group. Visit our website for schedules and registration.

 

NATURALIST PADDLE

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring is sponsoring a Naturalist Paddle at Beaverdam Park on Saturday, November 7th from 2:00-5:00 pm.  Join us on a Guided Paddle as we explore Beaverdam Reservoir and all the wildlife in their natural habitat, enjoy the sunset on the lake as a serene end to our paddle. Bring your camera and binoculars if you like.  The fee is $5 with your equipment or $15 with the park’s rental equipment. The deadline to register is Saturday, October 31st.

 

OWL PROWL

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a family friendly Owl Prowl on Saturday, November 14th from 5:00-8:00 pm at Beaverdam Park. On this guided walk through the woods, we’ll explore the fascinating world of owls that call the park home. As we hike along the trails, participants will learn fun facts about local owl species, discover how to spot signs of their presence, and maybe even hear them calling in the night. The fee is $5 and the deadline to register is Saturday, November 7th.

 

HARVEST MARKET AT OOZLEFINCH BEERS & BLENDING

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years Trip to the Harvest Market at Oozlefinch located at Fort Monroe in Hampton on Sunday, November 15th from 12:00 PM – 6:15 PM. This is the last Harvest Market at Oozlefinch in 2026, don’t miss out! Spend some time at the outdoor harvest market where you'll find vendors offering local produce, honey and flowers. Pasture raised meat and eggs as well as baked goods are available as well. The fee is $25 and the deadline to register is Sunday, November 8th.

 

PARK AFTER DARK

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Park After Dark on Friday, November 20th from 5:00-9:00 pm at Beaverdam park’s Main Entrance (only).  Participate in fishing, boating, biking or hiking after hours.  All activities require head lamps.  The fee is $5 and all rental fees apply; the deadline is Friday, November 13th.

 

THE FULL HIKE

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring The Full Hike Saturday, November 21st at 9 AM at Beaverdam Park. We will shuttle you to the Fary’s Mill Road Park Entrance where you will hike the trail back to the Main Entrance.  The hike is approximately 9 miles so bring water and snacks. Wear sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. The registration fee is $5 and the deadline to register is Saturday, November 14th.

 

OWL WALK

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring an Owl Walk for ages 16 and older on Saturday, November 21st from 5:00-8:00 pm at Beaverdam Park. We will be hiking into the woods!  Dress appropriately, bring bug spray, wear sturdy shoes.  Bring binoculars and camera, if you have them.  Bring a flashlight and water bottle. The fee is $5 and the deadline to register is Monday, November 16th.

 

HOLIDAY LIGHTS – BEST YEARS TRIP

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years trip to enjoy the holiday lights on Tuesday, December 1st, from 3:30–8:00 PM. The outing includes dinner on your own at Craft 60 Taphouse, followed by a driving tour of Celebration in Lights at Newport News Park. The group may also stop at City Center or Franktronics, depending on conditions and group preference. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Tuesday, November 24th.

 

SEASONAL DELIGHTS WORKSHOPS

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is offering Seasonal Delights workshops for ages 16 and older at the Stewart Building with instructor Michaela Badiana. Upcoming workshops include German Christmas Market Favorites on November 17th and Winter Wreath Making on December 3rd. Both workshops run from 5:30–7:30 PM. Visit our website for additional information.

 

WINTER GYMNASTICS

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Winter Gymnastics classes for ages 3–15 with Head Coach Caitlyn Coltrain. Tuesday classes at Botetourt run December 8th–February 9th, and Wednesday classes at Achilles run December 9th–February 10th, with holiday breaks. Beginner classes are available for ages 3–4 and 5–12. Thursday classes at Botetourt run December 17th–February 18th and include beginner classes for ages 5–12 and intermediate/advanced classes for ages 6–15. The fee is $75 per session. Class requirements and registration information are available at www.gloucesterva.info/civicrec. The Thursday session begins one week later than the other sessions.

 

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY – BEST YEARS TRIP

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years trip to Arlington National Cemetery on Tuesday, December 29th, from 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Participants will tour the historic grounds by tram and visit notable sites, including the John F. Kennedy gravesite, Arlington House, Ord and Weitzel Gate, the Coast Guard Memorial, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Dinner at Bubba’s Shrimp Shack in Tappahannock will be on your own during the return trip. The fee is $60, the deadline is Sunday, November 29th, and a photo ID is required for entry.

 

JEFF DUNHAM LIVE AT THE ALTRIA THEATER – BEST YEARS TRIP - NEW OFFERING!

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years trip to Richmond’s Altria Theater on Friday, January 22nd, from 3:00–10:15 PM to see comedian and ventriloquist Jeff Dunham. Known for his internationally popular comedy tours and memorable characters, Dunham delivers an evening of entertainment and humor. The fee is $180 and the deadline is Monday, November 30th.

 

FREE FLOW YOGA

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is offering Free Flow Yoga for ages 13 and older on Tuesdays from 5:30–6:45 PM at Whitcomb Lodge. Monthly fees are $32 for November, $40 for December, $24 for January, and $32 for February, or $9 per individual class. Registration is due one week before the first class.

 

SANTA’S SECRET REINDEER HIKE

Parks, Recreation & Tourism invites families and nature lovers to enjoy Santa’s Secret Reindeer Hike at Beaverdam Park, December 1–31. This free, self-guided holiday adventure takes participants along the Nature Trail to find eight hidden reindeer, decode holiday symbols, and reveal a secret word. Pick up a decoder sheet at the trailhead and enjoy a festive outdoor adventure with family and friends. The hike is free.

 

A WONDERFUL LIFE: 80TH ANNIVERSARY – BEST YEARS TRIP

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years trip to Irvington on Friday, December 18th, from 9:00 AM–3:00 PM to visit Compass Entertainment Complex for lunch and a special 80th-anniversary big-screen presentation of It’s a Wonderful Life. The fee is $50 and includes a movie ticket and concession tray with a drink, popcorn, and candy. The deadline is Friday, December 4th.

 

BEAVERDAM WINTER CAMP

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Beaverdam Winter Camp for children ages 6–10 on December 21–23, from 9:00 AM–1:00 PM at Whitcomb Lodge. Campers will enjoy themed hikes, nature exploration, games, crafts, and hot cocoa. Families may register for one, two, or all three days, with new adventures planned each day. The fee is $25 per day and the deadline is Monday, December 7th.

 

BEST YEARS HOLIDAY SOCIAL

Parks, Recreation & Tourism invites adults ages 50 and older to the Best Years Holiday Social on Friday, December 11th, from 11:00 AM–1:00 PM at Beaverdam Park. Enjoy light refreshments, learn about upcoming Best Years trips, and reconnect with friends made on previous outings. This gathering is a great opportunity to discover future trip opportunities and meet other members of the community.

 

HOOT & HOWL INTO 2027: FIRST DAY NIGHT HIKE

Parks, Recreation & Tourism invites the community to welcome the new year with Hoot & Howl Into 2027 at Beaverdam Park on January 1st from 5:30–8:30 PM. Participants can run or walk a nighttime 5K beneath the stars while watching and listening for owls and other nocturnal wildlife. The fee is $15 for ages 16 and older and includes a commemorative sticker. Participants ages 15 and younger attend free. The registration deadline is Friday, December 11th.

 

THE FULL HIKE

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring The Full Hike at Beaverdam Park on Saturday, December 19th at 10:00 AM. Designed for ages 16 and older, this self-guided, approximately nine-mile hike follows the Multi-use Trail from the Fary’s Mill Road entrance to the park’s main entrance. Participants will be shuttled to the trailhead and should arrive at the Ranger Station by 9:45 AM. Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and bring water and snacks. The fee is $5 and the deadline is Friday, December 12th.

 

SHIMMY FIT - NEW OFFERING!

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Shimmy Fit, a dance-inspired fitness class for ages 16 and older, on Mondays from 7:00–8:00 PM at the Stewart Building, January 5–February 23. Instructor Aela Badiana combines traditional Arabic dance movements with modern cardio and strength conditioning for a fun, full-body workout. Participants should dress comfortably and bring water. The fee is $65 and the deadline is Tuesday, December 29th.

 

YOUTH DANCE – NEW OFFERING!

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is bringing back youth dance classes in 2027 on Wednesdays at the Stewart Building, beginning January 6. Princess Ballet for ages 3–4 meets from 5:15–6:00 PM, January 6–February 10, for $80. Introduction to Dance for ages 5–7 meets from 6:00–7:00 PM, January 6–March 24, for $150. The registration deadline for both classes is Wednesday, December 30th. Visit www.gloucesterva.info/civicrec for class descriptions and registration.

 

WHALE WATCHING – BEST YEARS TRIP

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years whale-watching trip on Wednesday, January 13th, from 10:30 AM–6:45 PM. Participants will depart from Rudee Inlet and venture into the Atlantic Ocean in search of migrating Humpback Whales. The trip offers an opportunity to observe these magnificent marine mammals in their natural environment. The fee is $80 and the deadline is Thursday, December 30th.

 

IKEA – BEST YEARS TRIP

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years shopping trip to IKEA in Norfolk on Monday, January 25th, from 9:00 AM–2:30 PM. Enjoy a day of shopping without the hassle of driving. Participants may have lunch at the IKEA restaurant or at Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue on the way home. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Monday, January 11th.

 

GAUTHIER VINEYARD & PIZZA – BEST YEARS TRIP

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Best Years trip to Gauthier Vineyard on Friday, January 29th, from 2:00–6:00 PM. Participants can enjoy wine slushies, tastings, and pizza during this relaxing outing. The fee is $15 and the deadline is Friday, January 22nd.

 

CO-ED SPRING YOUTH SOCCER

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a Co-ed Spring Youth Soccer League for ages 5U, 8U, 11U, and 15U, March 1–June 5, at Ark, Abingdon, and Woodville parks. Practices are held on weeknights between 5:00–8:00 PM, with Saturday game times to be announced. Soccer Skills Day is February 21st. The season includes six to eight games and emphasizes fun, sportsmanship, and skill development through volunteer coaching. The 15U division is a local-travel league competing against other recreational teams. The fee is $60 and the deadline is Friday, January 29th. Volunteer coaches and referees are needed!

 

INTERNATIONAL CUISINE CULINARY CLUB

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring a four-week International Cuisine Culinary Club for ages 16 and older at the Stewart Building from 5:30–7:30 PM. The January session meets Tuesdays, January 5–26, and the February session meets Thursdays, February 4–25. Instructor Michaela Badiana will introduce participants to international cooking traditions and dishes inspired by German, French, Italian, Turkish, Indian, Thai, Mexican, just to name a few! The fee is $55, and registration closes one week before each session begins.

 

LITTLE HOOPERS: INDOOR DEVELOPMENTAL BASKETBALL

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring an indoor Little Hoopers developmental basketball program for children ages 3–5 and their basketball-loving adults on Mondays from 5:15–6:15 PM, February 22–March 15, at Petsworth Gym. Led by PRT instructors, this adult-child program emphasizes fun, skill development, ball handling, and basic rules. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Friday, February 5th.

 

LITTLE HOOPERS: INDOOR MINI LEAGUE BASKETBALL

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring an indoor Little Hoopers Mini League for children ages 5–6 and their basketball-loving adults on Mondays from 6:30–7:30 PM, February 22–March 15, at Petsworth Gym. Led by PRT instructors, this adult-child program focuses on fun, skill development, ball handling, and basic basketball rules. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Friday, February 5th.

 

YOUTH VOLLEYBALL SKILLS CLINICS

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Youth Volleyball Skills Clinics for ages 6–15 on Tuesdays, February 23–March 16, at Achilles Gym. Classes are divided by age group: ages 6–9 meet from 5:15–6:15 PM, ages 9–12 meet from 6:15–7:15 PM, and ages 12–15 meet from 7:15–8:15 PM. Led by PRT instructors, the clinics focus on fun and skill development. The fee is $60 and the deadline is Friday, February 5th.

 

LITTLE HOOPERS: OUTDOOR DEVELOPMENTAL BASKETBALL

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring an outdoor Little Hoopers developmental basketball program for children ages 3–5 and their basketball-loving adults on Mondays from 5:15–6:15 PM, March 29–April 19, at Ark Courts. Led by PRT instructors, this adult-child program emphasizes fun, skill development, ball handling, and basic basketball rules. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Friday, February 12th.

 

LITTLE HOOPERS: OUTDOOR MINI LEAGUE BASKETBALL

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring an outdoor Little Hoopers Mini League for children ages 5–6 and their basketball-loving adults on Mondays from 6:30–7:30 PM, March 29–April 19, at Ark Courts. Led by PRT instructors, this adult-child program focuses on fun, skill development, ball handling, and basic basketball rules. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Friday, February 12th.

 

SENIOR BALLERS: 18U INDOOR PICK-UP BASKETBALL

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring an 18U Indoor Pick-Up Basketball program for ages 14–18 on Sundays from 1:00–3:00 PM, February 28–March 21, at Peasley Gym. This pick-up style program focuses on fun, sportsmanship, and improving basketball skills through open play. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Friday, February 12th.

 

WOODLAND MATCH MAKER HIKE

Parks, Recreation & Tourism invites visitors of all ages to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the Woodland Match Maker Hike at Beaverdam Park, February 1–14. This free, self-guided nature adventure challenges participants to find nine hidden animal-pair signs along the Nature Trail and solve a secret coded message. Pick up a decoder sheet at the trailhead and enjoy a fun winter outing while discovering local wildlife. The hike is free.

 

FIELD HOCKEY SKILLS CLINICS

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Field Hockey Skills Clinics for girls ages 6–12 on Tuesdays from 5:30–7:30 PM, April 13–May 18, at Old Page Field Hockey Fields. Led by PRT instructors, the clinics focus on fun and skill development. Participants must have a field hockey stick, mouth guard, shin guards, and cleats. The fee is $60 and the deadline is Friday, March 26th.

 

LACROSSE SKILLS CLINICS

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Lacrosse Skills Clinics for girls ages 8–15 on Thursdays from 5:30–7:30 PM, April 15–May 20, at Old Page Field Hockey Fields. Led by PRT lacrosse instructors, the clinics focus on fun and skill development. Participants must have a lacrosse stick, mouth guard, shin guards, and cleats. The fee is $60 and the deadline is Friday, March 26th.

 

GOAL GETTERS: DEVELOPMENTAL SOCCER

Parks, Recreation & Tourism is sponsoring Goal Getters, an adult-child developmental soccer program for children ages 3–5 and their soccer-loving adults, May 3–26. Monday classes are offered at Ark Park from 5:15–6:15 PM or 6:30–7:30 PM, and Wednesday classes are offered at Abingdon Park during the same time slots. Led by PRT instructors, the program emphasizes fun, skill development, ball handling, and basic soccer rules. The fee is $30 and the deadline is Friday, April 16th.

 

For more information on these and other activities call PRT at 804-693-2355, email prt@gloucesterva.info or stop by our office 6382 Main Street.  For online registration visit https://gloucesterva.info/civicrec