'Tis the Season ❄⛄🎄

DECEMBER 2023

Winter has officially arrived! This is the perfect time to bundle up, grab a hot drink from your local coffee shop and go on a rejuvenating stroll along a trail or greenway. If you are looking for something for the kiddos, our playgrounds are open year-round, providing a fun space for kids of all ages to burn off energy and enjoy the fresh air.

If the weather keeps you indoors, PLAY Roanoke has you covered! The season brings a range of holiday activities suitable for all ages. This month’s newsletter highlights the variety of activities and holiday fun to be had.

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HOLIDAY TOURS AT THE FISHBURN MANSION

Tour the holiday decor at the Historic Fishburn Mansion this season!

Candlelight Tours: Enjoy an intimate tour of Roanoke’s Historic Fishburn Mansion and see all its historic rooms by candlelight - December 14 & 15.
Free Holiday Open House: The mansion and grounds will be open to the public from 1-5 PM on December 17 for a self-guided tour experience.

JOIN THE WINTER BALLERS!

Get ready to hoop it up in our co-ed adult basketball league this winter! It's the perfect way to stay active and have fun all season long. This league is open to players of all skill levels. Games will take place indoors at the Eureka Park Rec Center. Beyond the court we celebrate sportsmanship with awards and prizes and our community fosters a sense of togetherness.

LEARN MORE AND SIGN UP!

NEED A CHALLENGE THIS WINTER?

Join us for an exhilarating adventure at the 1st Annual Happy Valley Grit Gravel Race, taking place amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Carvins Cove in Roanoke, Virginia on December 10, 2023. This event promises an unforgettable day of cycling for riders of all skill levels and a chance to explore our local trails.

WHY WE'RE A "BEST PLACES TO WORK"

Roanoke Parks and Recreation has been recognized with an honorable mention on the annual "Best Places to Work" list by Outside Magazine! This award is given to companies that are committed to the employee experience. Some things that keep employees motivated to work at Roanoke Parks and Recreation are the strong culture of teamwork, commitment to provide excellent customer service, and dedication to making the parks and recreation facilities and programs the best they can be for the Roanoke community.

Roanoke Parks and Recreation is always looking for talented people to join the team. If you are looking for a rewarding career where you can make a difference in your community, check out our open positions!

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OPEN POSITIONS

SEE THE STAR IN A DIFFERENT LIGHT

Most people have scoped out the Roanoke star, but have you ever hiked up there at night? If you haven't, here's your chance!

On December 14th, we're taking on one of Mill Mountain's coolest trails and soaking up the history along the way. When we finally reach the top, we'll be greeted with a stunning view and some tasty hot cocoa. Don't miss out!

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

How do you use the Historic Fishburn Mansion? What programs or activities would you like to see more of? Have you experienced accessibility challenges on the property?

The Historic Fishburn Mansion recently received grant funding to develop plans for much needed repairs and updates. First, we need your input to help determine the priorities for the project! Whether you've never been to the Fishburn Mansion or you visit frequently - we want to hear from you! Follow the link to learn more and share your feedback in the survey.

SURVEY

HOLIDAY CHALLENGE!

Follow along on our 12 Days of PLAY to complete fun challenges, stay active, and win prizes! Each day, December 1 through 12, we’ll be sharing simple challenges. Complete all 12 challenges any time December 1 through 18, and we’ll choose 12 lucky winners!

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LET THE GAMES BEGIN!

Our annual dodgeball tournament is BACK February 3! We've got both a co-ed and men's division to choose from, so get your team together, coordinate your sweatbands and high socks, and don't forget to come up with a clever team name!

NEW YEAR, NEW FITNESS GOALS

The Roanoke 100 Miler is the perfect way to stay active in the New Year by setting a goal of 100 miles in 100 days! You can walk, run, hike, or bike your way to 100 miles, or substitute one mile for 30-minutes of human-powered activity!

Whether you earn your 100 miles playing disc golf, swimming, rock climbing, or doing yoga, the most important thing is to challenge yourself to reaching the goal in 100 days! Challenge runs January 8 through April 16!

UPCOMING PROGRAMS

Intro to Wild Caving

December 2

Ride & Dine on the New River Trail

December 16

Winter Solstice Celebration Reflection

December 21

View All Upcoming Activities