Things to Do in October

It’s officially fall ya’ll. The cooler temperatures are finally here and in just a few weeks the beautiful colors of fall will make its appearance all around us. We’ve got an October filled with too many programs and events to name—everything from fun fitness classes to an evening hike, an outdoor movie, a kayaking class and more. Get all the details below.

Make a Wreath and Go on a Nature Hunt – Friday, October 2
Kids ages 3-5 will craft a fall-themed nature wreath and head out on a guided nature hunt at Dale City Recreation Center to discover the colors, textures, and treasures of autumn. Register here.

Try a Fun Zumba Toning Class – Tuesday, October 6
Have fun and work your entire body in this Zumba Toning class at Dale City, which incorporates light weights, upper-body resistance, and bodyweight exercises in an energetic party atmosphere that is driven by rhythm and flavor.

This program is FREE for passholders and $12 for non-member guests. Registration is required.

Catch a Movie in the Park – Friday, October 9
Come join us at Veterans Memorial Park for a showing of Minions & Monsters. No ticket needed. Movie will begin at 7:45 pm. Bring your lawn chair or blankets for seating on the lawn. We will have popcorn and water but feel free to also bring snacks to enjoy as well. Alcohol is not permitted at this event. A parent or guardian must attend with children under the age of 16.

Go for a Twilight Trek – Saturday, October 10
Join our park naturalists at Neabsco Regional Park for this fun family program—Twilight Trek, that bring you up close and personal with some of the wetland's best-known inhabitants: the beaver, muskrat, deer, and other wetland critters. Then, meet back at our firepit for a warm, gooey s'more. Bring your phone/camera to take pictures; this will be a night to remember! All ages are welcome. Get tickets here.  

Learn the Essentials of Kayaking – Saturday, October 10
Let’s take up our kayaking skills a notch! Come join us at Silver Lake Park for our Kayaking Essentials program! In this 2.5-hour program, you will learn kayaking essentials, including pre-trip planning and prepping, launching, efficient turning, and moving your kayak sideways, along with water safety techniques. Solo kayaks, paddles, and PFDs are provided; however, participants may bring their own kayak and paddle. 

Send the Kids to Camp Chinn – Monday, October 12
Kids ages 6-14 can spend their school days off at Camp Chinn! If you’re looking for childcare options during those Prince Willam County’s school days off, then Camp Chinn at Chinn Aquatics & Fitness Center may be the place for you! Your child can join us for full-day childcare where students can make new friends in a safe, supervised environment. Students will have the opportunity to actively engage in hobbies of interest, such as recreational games/activities, including outdoor adventures, arts & crafts, STEAM, swimming time, and much more, while also trying their hand at new experiences and teamwork opportunities. Dates available are October 12, November 2 and November 3, from 9 am – 5 pm. View all the details and get registered today.

We also offer various full-day programs on school days off at Pat White Center at Ben Lomond and Veterans Memorial Park.

Explore Nature at James Long Park – Saturday, October 17
Join our expert conservation biologist Rea Manderino on a guided walk through James Long Regional Park and learn to identify various mushrooms and other fungi and learn their roles in the ecosystem. Foraging will not be a focus. We expect to walk several slow miles along the park trails, with frequent stops to observe anything that catches our attention. Nature enjoyers of all experience levels welcome.  Any participant under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. Register here.

Take a Tour of a Historic Battlefield - Saturday, October 17
Tour the Bristoe Station Battlefield at night to see nearly 1,000 luminary candles placed for the soldiers who died at Bristoe Station during the Civil War. This event is free and tickets are not required. Runs from 7 pm – 9 pm.

Get Crafty – Sunday, October 25
Get registered for this Board and Brush class at Dale City Recreation Center where you will unleash your creativity in this hands-on DIY wood sign workshop designed for adults who love to craft, paint and personalize their space. In this guided class, participants will paint their own custom wood sign. You’ll leave with a beautifully finished piece perfect for home décor or gifting.

Learn the Art of Leather Craft and Tooling – Sunday, October 25
Learn how to shape, stamp and personalize real leather as you create a custom project that reflects your style. No experience is needed; just come ready to learn, create and have fun! Register today. Program takes place at Dale City Recreation Center.