In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael visits Jim Barnett Park to discuss the exciting events and programs offered by Winchester City Parks with Parks Director, Chris Konyar.
Chris shared that spring has arrived, and with it, a flurry of activities at the park. The turf field, described as the crown jewel, is particularly striking against the backdrop of a transitioning season.
One of the most anticipated events is the Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt on April 4th. This unique twist on a traditional Easter egg hunt involves children using flashlights to search for eggs on the turf field at night. Last year's event was a massive success, attracting over 700 children. Due to its popularity, pre-registration is encouraged to ensure that everything runs smoothly.
The park also hosts Inflatable Fun Days featuring a variety of fun inflatables for kids and adults alike. These events are themed, with the upcoming one set for March 16th and 17th with a St. Patrick's theme. Additionally, the park offers an Ultimate Frisbee league on Wednesday nights, which has become very popular among adults.
Preparations are underway for the July 3rd 'Red, White, and Boom' event, an evening of baseball, fireworks, and family fun. The event garners significant attendance, with over 7,000 people joining last year. Winchester Parks is looking for a variety of vendors, from food trucks to craft sellers, to participate in this well-loved event.
The conversation also delved into the park's aquatic programs. With the conclusion of the high school swim season, spring marks the beginning of various swim lessons. Notably, beginners' swim lessons are free for city residents. The park is also hiring lifeguards and swim instructors, offering training and certification in-house.
In a new initiative, the park has launched a brick campaign fundraiser. Patrons can buy bricks to be placed in the concourse leading to the new turf fields. The funds raised will support park improvements and maintenance, ensuring that facilities remain in top condition for years to come.
Familyland, one of the park's playground areas, is set to undergo major renovations. To ensure the new playground meets the community's needs, the park is holding a suggestion session where patrons can provide input on the features they would like to see. This project aims to create an inclusive and exciting play area for children of all abilities.
For those interested in staying informed about all park activities and updates, the best way is to sign up for the Winchester Parks newsletter by visiting their website: winchester.va.gov/parks.
