Residents are set to embrace a season of wellness and fun as City of Powell River’s parks, recreation and culture department releases its digital Active Living Guide for the winter season.
Registration for a wide array of programs opens on Monday, December 9, at 8 am, offering activities for all ages and interests.
Acting aquatic programs supervisor Melissa Furlotte is announcing an exciting lineup at the pool this winter. For those looking to start a career in aquatics, both the National Lifeguard and Swim Instructor courses are being offered. Prerequisites include being age 15 or older, holding a Bronze Cross certification (courses run Sundays in January) and Standard First Aid (course on January 11).
"These certifications are essential for employment in the aquatics industry," says Furlotte.
Families can also look forward to two sets of one week swimming lessons over the March break, catering to all levels for enhancing skills, strength and endurance. During the March Break Lessons, an experienced aquatic team member will lead these sessions alongside a swim instructor trainee.
The beloved Sea Snake Saturdays continue on the last Saturday of each month from 1:30 to 3:30 pm during the Everyone Welcome Swim. Additionally, calendars should be marked for the Fitness Valentine’s Day Tea on February 14 at 2 pm in the poolside room, following the 1 pm Aquafit and Seniors Wellness classes.
"It's our way of celebrating our fantastic fitness participants, with tea and light snacks provided," adds Furlotte.
Sport and recreation coordinator Alex Craig is excited to kickoff the 2025 Community Recreation Programs with the enchanting Winter Wonderland skates. Starting December 6 and running through December 29, the rink will transform into a sparkling winter paradise filled with trees, inflatables, lights and more.
"We’re thrilled to bring the community together in such a festive atmosphere," says Craig.
For families looking to keep children entertained during the season, there’s a wide range of fun-filled programs to choose from this winter. Kids can get hands-on with Kids Can Cook, get messy with Slime and Mini Slimers, explore their curiosity in Mad Scientists, or unleash their creativity with Nature Craft and Tie-Dye Fun. For those ready for a little independence, the Home Alone Training and Babysitters Training programs are also available, equipping children with essential skills in a safe and engaging environment.
For school breaks, the department offers engaging options for children. The Professional Development Day Camp on February 14 and Spring Break Camps from March 17 to 28 provide opportunities for children to stay active, make new friends and embark on exciting adventures.
"Don’t miss out on the winter fun; there’s something for everyone," says Craig.
Health and fitness program coordinator Alex Young is inviting community members to special events this winter.
In celebration of National Eighties Day on Thursday, February 6, fitness enthusiasts are encouraged to don their best eighties attire for drop-in classes and work out to iconic hits from the era.
"It's a fun way to mix nostalgia with fitness," says Young.
Returning favourites in the preregistered program schedule include Free to Be Yoga with Regina, Drums Alive with Christine, as well as prenatal and postnatal fitness classes.
The regular drop-in schedule continues to offer popular classes, with the exciting addition of a new Cardio Dance fitness class on Fridays.
For schedules, more information or to register for programs online, go to powellriverprc.ca. Registration is also available by phone at 604.485.2891 or in person at Powell River Recreation Complex.
Residents are encouraged to stay updated with diverse programs designed to keep the community active, engaged and connected by following the parks, recreation and culture department on Facebook (facebook.com/PowellRiverParksRecCulture) and Instagram (instagram.com/powellriverparksrecculture).