This year is going to be an exciting one for Roanoke Parks and Recreation!


The long awaited Wasena Skatepark & Pump Track aren't open to the public yet, but will be completed soon (more info on that below). The much anticipated Eureka Recreation Center will also be finished in 2026, and we can't wait to open the doors when it's ready! Construction of the upcoming In-River Park will continue in the new year as well.


In addition to the new things coming, our staff are always working to keep our parks clean, trails maintained, events & rentals prepared, grass mowed, snow plowed, offering thousands of recreational opportunities all year round, and so much more! If you're interested in joining the PLAY Roanoke team, keep an eye out for employment opportunities in the new year, and volunteer roles all year round.


We'd also appreciate you sharing this newsletter with someone who wants to stay in the loop on all things PLAY Roanoke in the new year!

The 15th Annual Roanoke 100 Miler kicks off January 13!


All it takes is committing to 100 miles in 100 days.โ  You can walk, run, bike, hike, or substitute one mile with 30 minutes of human-powered activity (like yoga, rock climbing, basketball, dancing, swimming, etc.). Happening January 13 through April 23. $20 to sign up includes the T-shirt (or, $10 to sign up without the shirt).

Do you want to visit one of the best ski resorts in the region this winter?


We'll handle the logistics, and you can take the travel stress out of your day. Join us Tuesday, January 6 or Tuesday, January 27. Our Shuttles to Snowshoe Mountain Resort leave Roanoke at 6 AM and return at 8:30 PM for a full day of winter fun. $30 per seat. Additional shuttles will be offered February 3 & February 17.

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PARK PROJECT UPDATES

The Wasena Skatepark & Pump Track are looking great, but remember they are still under construction! We look forward to the completion of this project, but until it is done, remember to stay clear of the site. We'll be sharing news on a ribbon cutting very soon, thank you for your patience!


The In-River Park is also making lots of progress. Here's the recent video with project updates in case you missed it!

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Save the Date: April 11-12 WFA & CPR Training

Join us for a NOLS Wilderness First Aid Course this spring. This course is perfect for anyone who enjoys recreating outdoors. Option to add on CPR training as well. Space is limited, sign up now.

Positive Learning & Adventure for Youth

Our popular P.L.A.Y. After School is back for the spring semester, offering affordable after school care for K-5 students (ages 5-11). The P.L.A.Y. program is designed to offer a welcoming and positive environment for youth to enjoy enriching activities and experiences.

  • $200/month
  • MON-FRI from 2:30-6:00 PM
  • 3 locations across the city

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UPCOMING LOCAL DAY TRIPS:

JAN 17 - Draper Blooms High Tea & Thee Draper Village โ˜•

JAN 24 - Hard Rock Hotel & Casino - Bristol, VA ๐ŸŽฐ

FEB 7 - Edith Bolling Wilson, The Rock House, & Thomas Boyd Museums -Wytheville, VA ๐Ÿ–ผ๏ธ

TAKE A HIKE THIS WINTER

Winter can be one of the best times to take a hike. The physical exertion can keep you toasty even in the most bitter cold. You can also see mountain views more clearly without leaves on the trees, or enjoy frozen creek beds and icicles when hiking near water. Join us for a hike this winter!

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PLAY PROGRAMS THIS MONTH

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JAN 6 โ›ท๏ธ Ski & Snowboard Shuttle to Snowshoe Mountain Resort

JAN 7 ๐Ÿ€„ Mahjong at the Mansion

JAN 8 ๐Ÿฅพ Chestnut Ridge Thursday Hike

JAN 10 โœจ Winter Wonderland Hike & Warm Spring Float

JAN 11 ๐Ÿ’ฆ Indoor Stand Up Paddleboarding

JAN 13 ๐Ÿ‘Ÿ 2026 Roanoke 100 Miler Kickoff!

JAN 13 ๐ŸŒฒ Woody Tree ID Hike

JAN 17 ๐Ÿฆ‡ Wild Caving

JAN 17 ๐Ÿš DAY TRIP: Draper Blooms High Tea & Thee Draper Village

JAN 22 ๐Ÿงถ Soap Opera 2026: A Crafty Drama of Wool & Suds

JAN 23 ๐Ÿƒ Winter Senior Club

JAN 24 ๐Ÿš DAY TRIP: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

JAN 25 ๐Ÿฆ… Winter Bird Hike

JAN 26 ๐ŸŒณ Volunteer Tree Steward Training begins

JAN 27 โ›ท๏ธ Ski & Snowboard Shuttle to Snowshoe Mountain Resort

JAN 27 โ›๏ธ Trail Work at Carvins Cove

JAN 29 ๐Ÿฅพ Poor Mountain Thursday Hike

JAN 30 ๐Ÿ›๏ธ Historic Fishburn Mansion Tour

JAN 31 ๐Ÿฆ‡ Step Deeper Into Wild Caving

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