We were going to start this blog out with something like, “Now that the weather is better…” or “You’ve been cooped up indoors…” but that doesn’t really apply this year. We’ve seen you all outside all winter long, and we gotta tell you: we are incredibly impressed! Even when the weather was less than stellar, we saw you in parks, on the greenways, and in the neighborhoods playing and being active.
Let’s keep it going! We have a so many wonderful programs coming up that we know you’ll be psyched to do. Check out the highlights below and click here for a full listing!
Athletics
Adult Spring Softball (Deadline to Register: March 19)
Our most popular athletic program is BACK, and we know you’re pumped! Get your buddies together for weekly softball games at local parks. We offer men’s, women’s, co-ed, and church leagues, and all teams receive field time for practices before competitive play begins. Register today!
Adult Outdoor Volleyball League (Deadline to Register: May 14)
We are so excited to offer this BRAND NEW volleyball league! This is a six-vs-six Co-ed Adult Volleyball League, and teams are guaranteed nine regular season matches and a double-elimination post season. Registration closes on May 14 and games start June 5.
Adult Kickball (Deadline to Register: June 1)
They call it a children’s game, but we know better. Probably one of the FUNNEST leagues we offer is back after a one-year hiatus. Register now for a summer of outdoor fun by clicking here. And if you want to play but don’t have a team, throw your name on our Free Agent list here.
Outdoor Recreation
Parks by Bike (March 5)
Take your lunch break on the road with us as we start at the MLK Pedestrian bridge and visit Entranceway, Washington, Brown-Robertson, Kennedy, Eureka, Melrose, Horton, Hurt, Perry, West End, Highland, and Elmwood parks. The route will be approximately 11 miles. To see the route, please visit: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/31560884. BYOB (bring your own bike) as well as your helmet and safety lights!
Leave No Trace Trainer Course (March 6&7)
We’ve been talking A LOT about Leave No Trace as more folks are opting outside. If you’re an educator, scout troop leader, guide, agency employee, or outdoor professional, this is a great course for you. This course covers the Seven Principles of Leave No Trace as well as techniques for teaching others these low impact skills
Huckleberry Trail Park Trip and Rising Silo Brewery (March 17)
Join us on this early spring bike ride as we learn about the history of the Huckleberry Trail and ride its entire length (~29 miles round trip). We’ll ride through rolling forested terrain, rural open spaces, as well as town and historical spaces. After finishing the bike ride, we will head to Rising Silo Brewery just up the road from the trailhead to toast our ride. Due to COVID, participants will need to provide their own transportation to the trailhead. BYOB and registration does not include any beverages.
Outdoor Inspirations Movie Night (April 2)
Join us for a movie night atop Mill Mountain! This program is free to attend, but pre-registration is required, and a $5 donation to the featured local organization/business is strongly encouraged. We will be screening The Long Start to the Journey, an Appalachian Trail feature film and supporting the Appalachian Trail Conservancy and the Roanoke Appalachian Trail Club. You can watch the trailer to The Long Start to the Journey at: https://vimeo.com/105913637
Arts, Wellness, Trips and Tours
Handy(wo)man’s Home Maintenance (March 13)
March is Women’s History Month—the perfect time to take an empowering class! Learn how to be more handy around the house during this two-hour interactive workshop. Discover the “must have components” to any household basic toolbox, learn how to use basic tools, and pick up some tips for regular home repairs. Workshop includes a beginner’s take-home tool kit and snacks.
Whole at Home: Virtual Wellness Retreat (March 15)
You know what they say: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Relax and replenish from the comfort of your own home with this virtual retreat. This program offers classes on a private Facebook page as well as different instructional videos, like guided meditations or yoga, to keep you connected through Facebook and to provide you with holistic care. You’ll also receive a kit containing supplies for DIY self-care activities.
Gardening Hacks and Organic Pest Control (March 21)
It’s time to start thinking about your garden! During this workshop, learn how to use basic household items including Epsom salt, hydrogen peroxide, and mouthwash to help protect your plants and create a garden that will make you the envy of the neighborhood!
Roanoke’s Selfie Tour (March 25)
Explore art installations and murals that are right next door. Parents—this is a fun opportunity to snap some great pictures of your kids of any age. Or, just get some artsy photos of yourself, with friends, or with your significant other. Learn something new about your town while taking (and making) picturesque memories!
For the Kids
Dance Around the World (March 7, 14, 21, & 28)
Dancers of all ages and abilities are welcome to join in on this FREE project to dance across all four quadrants of the City and create a piece of art reflecting our unique Roanoke culture. Pick a session, arrive 30 minutes before your dance session with the fabulous dancers from Southwest VA Ballet, and create a personalized flag. Then, enjoy, dance, and learn from some of the best in the Valley. After your dance session, the art you created will be brought together in a special art installation premiere on World Art Day!
Babes in the Woods (March 18)
Do you have a little one 4 years or younger and want to meet other fellow hikers with kids? Need a little inspiration and know-how to get out on the trail with your youngster? Join Play Roanoke for a new in-town hiking series geared to littles ones and their grown-ups. We’ll meet at a different city park each month and explore the trails that park has to offer, as well as offering tips and tricks for hiking with young children. Click here for more info and to register.
Spring Paint Party, Jr. (March 23)
Celebrate springtime with a special paint class for kiddos! We’ll walk participants step-by-step through making their own masterpiece, and parents can even participate if they’re feeling artsy!
Flag Football (Registration Deadline: April 4)
For kiddos ages 5-13, we provide the only NFL-sanctioned flag football league in the Valley! This league is perfect for girls and boys looking for an active outlet on Saturdays during the spring. Participants receive a reversible NFL jersey and a flag belt to keep. Registration is open now.
Summer Camp Registration
We have summer and spring-break camp offerings! Space is very limited, so we suggest reserving a spot for your kiddo ASAP. Click here to see all our camp programs.
*Please note that our department is following all CDC guidelines to keep everyone as safe and healthy as possible. Space may be limited in some of these programs, and events and programs may be subject to change depending on new developments/restrictions.
