Community Recreation

Winchester Parks and Recreation is partnering with Beleo Music Group to offer group music lessons for ages 3 - 10.

• Mini Mighty Maestros
• Piano
• Ukulele

Each session includes six, 30-minute lessons. 
Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Fee: $150 per session

Register

Mini Mighty Maestros

Students will sing, dance and perform instrumental accompaniments to traditional and modern children’s songs ranging from the music of popular modern hits, to multicultural world music in a variety of languages.

Session 1: Ages 3 - 5
Day: Mondays, September 14 - October 26
(no lesson 10/12)
Time: 4:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Register By: September 7

Session 1: Ages 6 - 10
Day: Tuesdays, September 15 - October 27
(no lesson 10/13)
Time: 4:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Register By: September 7

Session 2: Ages 3 - 5
Day: Mondays, November 9 - December 14
Time: 4:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Register By: November 2

Session 2: Ages 6 - 10
Day: Tuesdays, November 10 - December 15
Time: 4:00 - 4:30 p.m.
Register By: November 2

Group Piano

Students learn to read, play, and create music through a blend of traditional and modern techniques. They practice treble and bass clef, scales, chords, improvisation, and composition, with lessons adapted to each student’s ability.

Session 1: Ages 3 - 5
Day: Mondays, September 14 - October 26
(no lesson 10/12)
Time: 4:45 - 5:15 p.m.
Register By: September 7

Session 1: Ages 6 - 10
Day: Tuesdays, September 15 - October 27
(no lesson 10/13)
Time: 4:45 - 5:15 p.m.
Register By: September 7

Session 2: Ages 3 - 5
Day: Mondays, November 9 - December 14
Time: 4:45 - 5:15 p.m.
Register By: November 2

Session 2: Ages 6 - 10
Day: Tuesdays, November 10 - December 15
Time: 4:45 - 5:15 p.m.
Register By: November 2

Group Ukulele

Using a variety of pop and folk songs, students will learn chords, fingerpicking and rhythm techniques that they may use to perform pieces or accompany themselves singing.

Session 1: Ages 3 - 5
Day: Mondays, September 14 - October 26
(no lesson 10/12)
Time: 5:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Register By: September 7

Session 1: Ages 6 - 10
Day: Tuesdays, September 15 - October 27
(no lesson 10/13)
Time: 5:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Register By: September 7

Session 2: Ages 3 - 5
Day: Mondays, November 9 - December 14
Time: 5:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Register By: November 2

Session 2: Ages 6 - 10
Day: Tuesdays, November 10 - December 15
Time: 5:30 - 6:00 p.m.
Register By: November 2

Build confidence, strength, and focus on the mat! Our Judo program teaches students how to use balance, timing, and technique to succeed—without relying on brute strength. Rooted in tradition and respect, Judo develops discipline, coordination, and self-defense skills in a fun, supportive environment

Judo is more than just a martial art—it's a dynamic blend of strategy, balance, and explosive movement. Developed in Japan, Judo means "the gentle way," where the goal isn't to overpower with brute strength, but to use an opponent's energy against them. Imagine flipping someone twice your size with perfect timing and technique—it's not only possible in Judo, it's the foundation. Whether you're looking to build confidence, get fit, or master the art of controlled combat, Judo offers discipline, self-defense, and an empowering sense of accomplishment. It's not just about fighting—it's about thinking, adapting, and growing stronger in body and mind. 

Note: A judo gi is required for this class.

Register

Session 1

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Tuesdays & Thursdays, September 15 - October 8
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 10+
Fee: $90 / RDF: $75
Register By: September 8

Session 2

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Tuesdays & Thursdays, October 20 - November 12
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 10+
Fee: $90 / RDF: $75
Register By: October 13

Session 3

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Tuesdays & Thursdays, December 1 - 29
(no class 12/24)
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 10+
Fee: $90 / RDF: $75
Register By: November 24

Learn about plants, animals, space, the body, and more! Every session will have a theme and the children will learn about a topic related to that theme. Each day will include a short lesson, story, and craft, with the last day of session featuring a fun experiment. Register for one or multiple sessions!

Ms. Carolyn is a Preschool Teacher with over 20 years of teaching experience and a lover of Science! 

Register

Session 1

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Tuesdays, September 1 - 22
Time: 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Ages: 3 - 5
Fee: $80
Register By: August 27

Session 2

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Tuesdays, October 6 - 27
Time: 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Ages: 3 - 5
Fee: $80
Register By: October 1

Session 3

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Tuesdays, November 10 - December 1
Time: 3:30 - 4:00 p.m.
Ages: 3 - 5
Fee: $80
Register By: November 5

Minecraft Education: Build, Code & Create

Minecraft Education is an engaging, project-based STEM program where students use the Minecraft Education platform to solve challenges, build creative worlds, and develop skills in coding, engineering, teamwork, and problem-solving. Each session introduces new activities that encourage creativity while teaching foundational computer science and digital literacy concepts in a fun, collaborative environment. No prior Minecraft Education experience is required.

Register

Session 1

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Thursdays, September 17 - October 8
Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Ages: 6 - 11
Fee: $100
Register By: September 10

Session 2

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Thursdays, October 22 - November 12
Time: 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.
Ages: 6 - 11
Fee: $100
Register By: October 15

Session 3

Location: Jim Barnett Park, Rec Center
Day: Saturdays, November 28 - December 19
Time: 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Ages: 6 - 11
Fee: $100
Register By: November 19

Try something new with us! Learn to decorate beautiful themed sugar cookies with instruction from Andrea Goodies in an interactive class format from the comfort of your own home.

These beginner-friendly virtual classes will guide you step-by-step through decorating techniques, icing tips, and simple tricks to help you create cookies you'll be proud to share. Whether you’re brand new to cookie decorating or looking to build your skills, these classes are designed for all experience levels.

Your class registration includes a complete cookie decorating kit with all the supplies you need to participate. Pick up your kit at the Rec Center before class, then join us online for a fun and relaxing evening of decorating and creativity! After registration, you’ll receive a Zoom link by email along with any additional class details so you’ll be ready to join and decorate along with us.

Register

Halloween Potions

Join us as we create 4–6 spooktacular sugar cookies inspired by bubbling potions, enchanted bottles, and all things Halloween.

Location: Virtual, Zoom
Day: Wednesday, October 28
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 12+
Fee: $50 / RDF: $45
Register By: October 21

Sweater Weather

Grab your favorite cozy sweater and join us for an evening of creativity and cookies! In this beginner-friendly class, you'll learn how to decorate 4–6 adorable fall-themed sugar cookies inspired by all things Sweater Weather.

Location: Virtual, Zoom
Day: Monday, November 16
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 12+
Fee: $50 / RDF: $45
Register By: November 9

Christmas Time

Get into the holiday spirit with a festive evening of cookie decorating! This special Christmas class is designed to help you create beautiful holiday cookies using easy-to-reproduce shapes that you can confidently make again at home to wow your family and friends throughout the season. During class, you'll decorate 4–6 festive Christmas cookies while learning decorating techniques and simple designs that are both stunning and approachable. Whether you're brand new to cookie decorating or have some experience, you'll leave with the skills and confidence to recreate these designs for your own holiday gatherings, cookie exchanges, and gift boxes.

Location: Virtual, Zoom
Day: Thursday, December 3
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 12+
Fee: $50 / RDF: $45
Register By: November 29

Winter Wonderland

Celebrate the beauty of the season with a cozy evening of cookie decorating! Join us as we create 4–6 stunning Winter Wonderland-inspired sugar cookies featuring frosty designs, snowflakes, evergreen touches, and all the magic of winter.

Location: Virtual, Zoom
Day: Thursday, January 14
Time: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Ages: 12+
Fee: $50 / RDF: $45
Register By: January 7

For Fall 2026 Nature walks join us at Abrams Creek Wetlands Preserve at 8:30 a.m. on the following Saturdays:

• August 29
• September 12
• September 26
• October 10

Meet at the trailhead of the Preserve at the intersection of Jubal Early Drive, Handley Ave., and Meadow Branch Ave. for a 2 hour walk focusing on bird migration and wild flowers. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, binoculars and camera if you have them. This free activity is cosponsored by Winchester Parks and Recreation Department and the Northern Shenandoah Valley Audubon Society. Call 540-303-3983 if you need additional information.

Nature Heals is a mindful, immersive experience designed to reconnect participants with nature. Enjoy a slow walk along Jim Barnett’s Arboretum Trail, where participants will identify and review the natural history of some of the 150+ plants and trees found in the arboretum. This program encourages relaxation, observation, and a renewed appreciation for the healing power of nature. Program led by Jim Smith, Audubon Arboretum Co-Founder. Meet at the POW/MIA Pavilion in Jim Barnett Park.

Sessions

Babysitting Training with Adult and Blended Learning Pediatric CPR/AED/First Aid

This blended learning course helps youth build the skills and confidence to safely care for children and infants. The in-person babysitting training includes hands-on activities, videos, and discussions covering childcare basics, safety, and emergency response. Participants also complete American Red Cross Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED training, learning how to respond to common first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies involving adults, children, and infants. The online portion must be completed before the in-person skills session.

Certification includes:

• Babysitter’s Training certificate (valid for 10 years)

• Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED certificate (valid for 2 years)

A great opportunity to gain life skills, confidence, and nationally recognized certifications!

Sessions

Interested in becoming a certified lifeguard? This course prepares participants to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies in both shallow and deep water. Training includes CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers and First Aid. The class is offered in a blended learning format. Participants must complete the online portion before attending the in-person sessions.

Upon successful completion, participants receive an American Red Cross Lifeguarding certification (valid for 2 years).

Prerequisites:

• Attendance to all classes is required

• Must be 15 years or older

• Complete a swim-tread-swim sequence

• Retrieve a 10-pound object from deep water within a timed requirement

NOTE: Attendance to ALL classes in the course is required. Spots fill up quickly—register early!

Sessions

The Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED blended learning course equips students to recognize and care for a variety of first aid breathing and cardiac emergencies involving adults children and infants. It is designed for students who need a certification that satisfies OSHA workplace or other regulatory requirements. This class is taught in a blended learning format and the online portion (accessed via mobile desktop or tablet) must be completed prior to attending the Instructor-led skills session. Upon successful completion a valid 2 year digital certificate for Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED is issued.

Sessions