Print
Share page with AddThis

Programs & Events

GENERAL INFORMATION

Parks and Recreation office: Colchester Town Hall: 127 Norwich Ave, Suite 107, Colchester CT

Office Phone Number: (860) 537-7297

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://ww
w.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department

Online Registration: https://colchesterctrec.recdesk.com/Community/Home

Payment Accepted: All major credit cards, checks and cash.

INCLUSION POLICY

Colchester Parks & Recreation recognizes that every person is unique and brings with them a wide range of skills and abilities. We continuously strive to provide challenging experiences so that all can achieve their full potential. As such, we encourage and support individuals with disabilities to fully participate in all programs offered by our department. Please let us know how we can accommodate you. The town of Colchester abides by all guidelines of the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

PROGRAM CHANGES

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information presented in this program guide. However, all courses, instructors, locations, and fees described are subject to change.

WEATHER/CANCELLATION POLICY

Please check our website at https://www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department for weather cancellations. We will make every effort to email or call participants if we must cancel a program due to weather.

RESERVATIONS

Interested in reserving the pavilion at the RecPlex, hosting an event on the Town Green, using Ruby Cohen Woodlands for a birthday party? We can help you! Information and forms are available online:

https://www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department/pages/forms-documents

Call the Recreation Office for more information at (860) 537-7297.

REFUNDS

Colchester Parks & Recreation stands behind our community programs.  All programs, events and activities are self-funded and must cover all costs associated with the activity.  With that in mind, we will gladly help all participants with any registration or refund requests to the best of our ability.  Refund requests must be made in writing.  Refunds will be given if requested at least two weeks prior to the start of the program.  Any request made within two weeks of the start of the program will be issued as a credit to the participants' account for future use.  Once the program has started, no refunds or credits will be issued unless the program is canceled by Colchester Parks and Recreation.  Certain programs, including Day Camp and bus trips, may have different refund policies.  Participants with extenuating circumstances may request a review of their case by providing written documentation of their situation to the Recreation Director. 

A $15 cancellation fee will be charged for all refunds and credits requested by a participant.

HOW TO REGISTER

ONLINE

For your convenience, registrations can be done online. Simply go to https://www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department, click on “Register Online” tab on the left and then follow the instructions to set up an account and register online. All major credit cards are accepted. Please call the Recreation Office (860-537-7297) for assistance if needed. We are always here to help.

MAIL IN/DROP OFF

If you would like to mail in your registration, please fill out a registration form and mail it in, with a check, to: Colchester Parks and Recreation, 127 Norwich Avenue, Colchester, CT 06415

Likewise, you may visit us in our office at the Town Hall.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

A SPLASHPAD RENOVATION IS COMING! As part of upcoming improvements to the RecPlex, the splashpad will be completely redone including expanded fixtures! Right now, we are unable to open the splashpad due to mechanical issues. We recognize that this might be disappointing, but we are confident that it will be worth the wait when we re-open with a new splashpad.  The current splashpad is over 25 years old and has long outlived its life expectancy. We can no longer get parts to make repairs or updates. The new splashpad will be appreciated for many summers to come.

 Beginning June 1, 2026, the tennis court repairs and construction of a new basketball court will begin.

Beginning June 8, 2026, the pickleball court construction will begin.

 If you have any questions, please contact Colchester Parks and Recreation at (860) 537-7297 or Colchester Public Works at (860) 537-7288. Thank you for your patience and support.

COLCHESTER PARKS & RECREATION SEEKS RECREATION PROGRAM INSTRUCTORS

Colchester Parks & Recreation is inviting passionate, skilled, and community-minded individuals to share their talents by becoming program instructors for upcoming seasonal offerings.

The department is currently seeking instructors to lead a wide variety of recreational, educational, and enrichment programs for residents of all ages. Opportunities are available in areas such as youth and adult fitness, arts and crafts, dance, outdoor recreation, sports, STEM activities, wellness, and specialty hobby classes.

We are always looking to expand our program offerings and bring fresh, engaging experiences to the community.  If you have a skill, hobby, or professional expertise you’re excited about, we encourage you to consider teaching a class and making a positive impact right here in Colchester.

Prospective instructors can propose new program ideas or apply to lead existing programs. Both experienced instructors and first-time teachers with a strong passion for their subject area are encouraged to apply. Flexible scheduling options are available, including daytime, evening, and weekend classes.

Individuals interested in becoming an instructor can submit a program proposal or request more information by contacting Colchester Parks & Recreation at (860) 537-7297or [email protected]. More information is also available at https://www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department.

Join us in building a stronger, more active community—one program at a time.

COLCHESTER PARKS & RECREATION HIRING PART-TIME, PER DIEM GYM SUPERVISORS

Colchester Parks & Recreation is currently seeking responsible, energetic, and community-focused individuals to serve as Part-Time, Per Diem Program Gym Supervisors. This position plays an important role in ensuring a safe, welcoming, and well-managed environment for recreational programs and open gym activities.

Gym Supervisors are responsible for overseeing activities in recreation facilities, supporting program operations, and ensuring participant safety during scheduled programs, leagues, and drop-in use.

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy working with the public and want to be part of a positive, active community environment.  Our gym supervisors help create a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone who walks through our doors.

Flexible hours are available based on programming needs, making this an excellent opportunity for students, retirees, or anyone seeking part-time supplemental income.

Individuals interested in applying can contact Colchester Parks & Recreation at (860) 537-7297or [email protected]. More information is also available at https://www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department.

UPCOMING EVENTS

250 AMERICA in COLCHESTER

In honor of America’s 250 anniversary, Colchester organizations have planned some great events and activities. Join the community to celebrate the rich Colchester history throughout the past 250 years. Events and activities can be found here: https://www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department/pages/america-250.  This information will be updated throughout the year so please check the calendar frequently.

*If you have an event you have planned for America 250 and would like to add to the calendar, please send the information to [email protected].

 TRAIL MEDALLIONS

Keep your eyes peeled while you're out exploring our trails, and don't forget to register your medallions at https://colchesterct.gov/medals. If you find one, you get to keep it...Get out there and start exploring! If you have already found one, congrats!  You can find remaining medals on the Airline Trail (Colchester/Westchester section), Cohen Woodlands, Sablitz Preserve, and Bulkeley Hill Preserve! More medals will be hidden soon…so stay tuned!

 SUMMER IN THE PARK

We are planning for a fun summer of free events on the Town Green!

Join us every Thursday, June 25-August 6, from 6-8pm.

  • 7/2/26                Touch A Truck Event
  • 7/9/26                Glenn Hanson Orchestra
  • 7/16/26             Sister Funk                      
  • 7/23/26             United States Coast Guard Band    
  • 7/30/26             Colchester Continentals-Fife and Drum Muster  
  •  8/6/26               Blues Connection Band

 TOUCH A TRUCK

Bring the kids to visit different kinds of trucks and vehicles. We will have kids’ activities, fun games, and interesting trucks! We are looking for a wide variety of vehicles if you are interested in participating with your vehicle, please register online or call the office.

  • When: Thursday, July 2, 2026, from 6-8pm
  • Where: Colchester Town Green
  • Who: Everyone is welcome!

 NATIONAL NIGHT OUT & FIREWORKS SPONSORED BY COLCHESTER PIZZA

A national community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships.  This family friendly event is sponsored by Colchester Starbucks, Colchester and State of CT police, and Colchester Parks and Recreation.  We will bring the fun- you bring the smiles and laughter! Free giveaways, food, vendors and more!

  • When: Tuesday, August 4, 2026, beginning at 6pm (fireworks will begin at dark)
  • Where: Colchester RecPlex
  • All are welcome!

TOWN WIDE TAG SALE

Register for the Town Wide Tag Sale by July 22, 2026, and pay the $25 fee. Your address and tag sale hours will be placed on a map that will include all local tag sales being held on August 1, 2026, in Colchester. Then, hold your tag sale at your house (or get together with neighbors).  Maps will be available July 27, 2026, at www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department . Anyone and everyone can print out the tag sale map and visit all the tag sales in Colchester!

  • All tag sales will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026
  • Rain Date August 8, 2026
  • Fee: $25 per tag sale

ADULT PROGRAMS

 15 MINUTE HIIT WORKOUT  (ONLINE)

Short on time? This workout is for you. Backed by research that shows short bouts of intense exercise can be as effective as longer more moderate workouts, this class makes it easy to fit exercise in your schedule. This class will have a short warm up and cool down, and in between we will be working intensely with fun, full body moves. Modifications will be made so that you can work at the right pace for you. Plan to leave feeling energized.

  • When: Wednesdays from 8:10am-8:25am, July 8-September 2, 2026, no class 8/5 or 8/12 (7 classes) $35
  • Where: Zoom
  • Who: Ages 18+
  • Instructor: Maggie from Personal Euphoria

 CARDIO STRENGTH (ONLINE)

This functional, fun class provides a complete workout that will help tone and reshape your body. You will use light weights, bands, and your own body weight to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and stamina to sculpt and tone. Bring a yoga mat, water, and light weights.

  • When: Wednesdays from 8:30-9:15am, July 8-September 2, 2026 (no class 8/5 & 8/12) (7 classes) $66.50
  • Where: Zoom
  • Who: Ages 18+
  • Instructor: Maggie from Personal Euphoria

 CORE STRENGTH (ONLINE)

This functional, fun class provides a complete workout that will help tone and reshape your body. You will use light weights, bands, and your own body weight to improve strength, flexibility, balance, and stamina to sculpt and tone. Bring a yoga mat, water, and light weights.

  • When: Thursdays from 6-6:45pm, July 9-August 27, 2026, (8 classes)
  • Cost: $76
  • Where: Online Via Zoom
  • Who: Ages 18 and older
  • Instructor: Rob from Personal Euphoria

 PILATES (ONLINE)

Exercises focus on the core muscles which include the abs, back, glutes and shoulders. We work to create balance and strength in your trunk and loose, limber limbs. Pilates strives to make you strong and long while improving balance, coordination, and posture. Every part of the body gets worked and you’ll discover muscles you never knew you had. Please bring a mat, water, a green (or medium weight) flex band, and a 7.5-9-inch stability ball.

  • When: Tuesdays from 6:00-6:45pm, Summer: July 7-August 25, 2026, (8 classes)
  • Cost: $76
  • Where: Online via Zoom
  • Who: Ages 18 and older
  • Instructor: Rob or Allison from Personal Euphoria

YOGA FOR SENIORS (ONLINE)

ONLINE with Facebook Live - Gentle Yoga is perfect for age 45 and over to explore yoga postures, breathing techniques and meditation. Yoga improves your balance and strength, stretches your entire body, and focuses your mind and calms your emotions. All levels of fitness or yoga experience are welcome.  

  • When: Mondays from 4:45pm - 5:45pm
  • June 15-July 6
  • August 3- August 24
  • Where: Facebook Live (directions to join will be emailed to you after you register)
  • Cost: $35 for residents, $40 for non-residents (4 weeks)
  • Instructor: Anne Beauregard

 INTEREST BASED LOCAL SUMMER CAMPS

In collaboration with Salem Recreation Department, we are offering the following interest-based camps for youth this summer. Pricing is for Colchester and Salem residents. If interested in these programs, please register at www.SalemCt.gov/recreation/register .

BROADWAY BOUND: MUSICAL THEATRE WORKSHOP

This 2-week musical theatre camp is the perfect opportunity to work on your singing, dancing, and acting skills—all at the very same time! Participants will learn the basics of acting a song and finding their “stage voices” as they work on solo and group numbers from popular Broadway musicals. Performers will learn the basis of musical theatre choreography as they work with professional theatre teaching artists to create a Broadway showcase.  All Levels are Welcome!

  • Who: Youth entering grades 3-7 in the fall of 2026
  • When: Monday-Friday (second week ends on Thursday)
  • July 20th-July 30th. 8:00am-3:00pm
  • Performance on Thursday, July 30th at 1:30pm
  • Where: Gardner Lake Firehouse, 429 Old Colchester Road, Salem, CT
  • Cost: $250 for Colchester and Salem Residents/ $255 for all others
  • Register at: Salemct.gov/Recreation/Register

CHESS WIZARDS

Join us this summer for tons of challenging chess lessons, exciting games, and cool prizes. You’ll improve your chess skills, meet new friends, and work out your most powerful muscle—your brain! Our camps include fun team chess games (like Corner Chess), recess time (of course), snacks, tournaments, and puzzles. Each camper receives a T-shirt, trophy, and puzzle folder. We include all the materials necessary for your child to participate. Unleash your brain power and spend a week with Chess Wizards! Chess Wizards is a premier chess education company providing fun, informative and challenging chess lessons to students. Chess Wizards teaches children many important life concepts, such as learning the ability to win graciously and accept defeat with dignity and sportsmanship/ Students will be divided into groups according to their chess experience. At the end of this camp, each student will have had the chance to participate in a mini-chess tournament.

  • Who: For children entering grades K-5th or 5th -12th in the fall of 2026
  • All Skill Levels
  • Where: Salem Volunteer Fire Company, 424 Hartford Rd, Salem, CT 06420
  • When: August 10th-14th (5 day Camp)
  • Full Day: 9:00am to 3:00pm $325/participant
  • Half Day AM: 9:00am to 12:00pm  $225/ participant
  • Half Day PM: 12:00pm to 3:00pm $225/ participant
  • Register at: Salemct.gov/Recreation/Register

 COLCHESTER YOUTH THEATRE CAMP: START OF SUMMER

Get ready for a wild week-and-a-half Youth Theatre Camp packed with acting tips, character building, buddy bonding, stage swagger, and a mega confidence boost! Participants will work collaboratively to create an original play to perform on the last day of camp, Friday July 3rd at 1:30pm. This is a positive, supportive environment for creativity to soar, and a fun way to kick off a summer! No prior experience necessary. There are no auditions required to attend camp.

  • When: Wednesday, June 24th to Friday, July 3rd  8:00am-3:00pm
  • Where: Gardner Lake Firehouse, 429 Old Colchester Road, Salem, CT
  • Cost: $250 for Colchester and Salem Residents/ $255 all others
  • Minimum of 15 and maximum of 24 actors will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Register at: Salemct.gov/Recreation/Register

SUMMER LEGO CAMP

Build and explore simple machines and solve pre-engineering challenges with LEGOs!

  • When: July 13th -17th
  • Where:  Salem School Multi-purpose Room, 200 Hartford Road, Salem, CT
  • Cost: $140/ Colchester and Salem Residents, $145/ Non-residents per camp
  • Minimum 8 participants, maximum 16 participants
  • Register at: Salemct.gov/Recreation/Register

S.T.E.A.M. Works Using Lego

Projects include drawbridges, flywheel cars, and amusement park rides.

  • Who: Ages 7 to 9
  • When: 1:00pm-4:00pm
  • Building Up S.T.E.A.M. Using Lego:

Projects include spin tops, hockey players, and motorcycles.

  • Who: Ages 5 to 6
  • When: 9:00am-12:00pm

COLCHESTER PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER DAY CAMP 2026 INFORMATION

SUMMER DAY CAMP OPEN HOUSE

Campers, bring your families! Meet camp staff, ask your questions, and get to know all things “camp” before the summer starts! We will also have your camp T-shirts ready for pick up!

  • When: Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 9am
  • Where: RecPlex pavilion

 Summer just wouldn’t be the same without the excitement and adventure of Colchester Parks and Recreation’s Day Camp: Colchester’s ultimate summer program where every day we’re “making memories that last a lifetime.” We are excited to meet all our new friends and have exceptional experiences.  This summer your kids will transform into incredible Campers! Returning campers, prepare to be amazed with all the new things we have planned!

 Great News! For your convenience you may register for camp online at https://colchesterctrec.recdesk.com/Community/Home.  If you prefer personal assistance, please call our office at 860-537-7297 or visit us in the Recreation Office at Town Hall.

 Your child’s experiences during their time at Colchester Parks and Recreation’s Day Camp will help them transition into the next stage of development with confidence. Our Day Camp provides physical, intellectual, social and emotional development for our Campers! Daily activities are specifically designed to enhance their connections, confidence and contribution to our community. Colchester Parks and Recreation Day Camp provide opportunities for campers to explore in a safe environment and to develop positive social values, engage in activities that promote friendships, self-understanding, self-worth, resilience and a sense of belonging.

 As you turn the pages in this brochure, we hope you feel the level of energy and enthusiasm we are committed to bringing to camp- we want every day to be your camper’s best day of the summer!  Municipal camps are exempt from state licensing. Per Connecticut General Statute 19a-77 we are required to disclose that our programs are not licensed by the State Office of Early Childhood.  While we are not licensed, we do follow the licensing guidelines and standards.

COLCHESTER CAMP STAFF

Many of our camp staff return each summer because they love the camp experience and want to be a part of the summer magic too. It’s the connections campers make with the camp community that enrich their lives. To provide that opportunity, the leadership team carefully interviews, trains and assigns each Specialist, Counselor, and CIT.  Our camp staff bring their best energy, knowledge and unique passion along with their goal to make a difference in the life of each camper- every day. For eight weeks, the Day Camp world creates the feeling of a camp family, and the development of this connection remains with campers all year long and throughout their lifetime.

 Our Day Camp leadership team, staff and counselors are full-time teachers, paraprofessionals, musicians, sports enthusiasts, college students, book worms, actors, babysitters, mature high school students and so much more…. all with several years of training and experience. 

 It is natural (and a nice complement) when parents ask their campers’ favorite counselor to babysit. Out of an abundance of caution for your child as well as our camp staff, camp counselors cannot work for camp families while working at camp. This includes transporting campers and working during non-camp hours. This is reviewed with staff during camp training, please do not request childcare from the camp staff. If there is a preexisting relationship, please reach out to the Recreation office to discuss options.              

STAFF TRAINING

Our camp counselors are trained to highlight teachable moments and emphasize accomplishments and successes in every camper. All staff are required to attend training seminars, MERGE inclusion training, Bloodborne Pathogens, Exposure Control (HEPb/HIV) training, First Aid, CPR, Epi-Pen, concussion awareness, safety and security, emergency response, splash pad and playground safety, record keeping, Town of Colchester and department policies and procedures, customer service, positive youth development, and character building.  In addition, there are guest speakers brought in to train staff in areas such as how to schedule activities, games and leadership, child development and behavior, mandated reporting, and lots of hands-on activities such as sports and games, arts and crafts, traditional camp games and songs.  We are committed to maintaining and developing all camp Staff. 

LEADERS IN TRAINING (L.I.T.) PROGRAM (GRADES 6-8)

Leaders-in-Training is a weekly program for middle school aged campers.  Campers will develop leadership skills and become active leaders in their camp community. L.I.T.s participate in team-building activities, service projects, and camp activities. They also learn about cultural awareness, and responsible citizenship. Participation in this program is contingent upon the camper’s commitment to leading by example at camp. Campers who choose not to participate during the camp day may be asked to leave.

  • When: Monday – Friday, 8am - 3pm
  • Where: June 22 - August 14
  • Cost: $170 per week

CAMP REGISTRATION INFORMATION

CAMP DATES

Camp will be held Monday-Friday, June 22 - August 14 from 8am - 3pm. There is no camp on Friday, July 3. We offer extended care hours from 3:00-5:00pm for an additional fee.

WEEKLY REGISTRATION

Day Camp registration is available for all children entering grades K – 5 in fall 2026. Registration is accepted on a weekly basis- you may register for one week, several weeks, or all 8 weeks! We cannot accept registration for partial weeks. Camp weeks do fill up! When this happens, you can add yourself to the waitlist. We will notify you if a spot becomes available. 

CAMP ACCOMMODATIONS

We are happy to accommodate every child at camp.  Early planning will help us ensure that we have trained staff, and the resources needed to make sure camp is a fun experience for your child. Please call the Recreation Director to discuss your child’s needs before May 1st.  We cannot guarantee support staff will be available to meet the needs of your child after May 1.

CAMP FORMS

When you register, you will be required to complete online forms for each child. This needs to be completed before your registration can be completed. If you need to update any information before camp starts, you can log back into your account or call the office.  All campers are required to have a copy of their health form on file at camp- a copy of their school health form is fine! The form needs to be signed by their doctor and dated within the past 3 years.

MEDICATION

If your child requires any medication (prescription or over the counter) during the camp day. The medication administration form is available on our website and must be signed by a doctor and submitted along with the medication prior to the start of camp. Medication must be delivered in the original packaging from the pharmacy and must have your child’s name on it. Medication cannot be held by campers (on their person, in their pockets or backpacks). All medication will be stored and administered by OEC regulations.

PAYING FOR CAMP

CAMP FEES Prices are based on 1-week sessions for campers in grades K-5:

Monday – Friday 8:00am - 3:00pm   $170 includes a camp t-shirt and field trip fee if applicable

Extended Care 3:00 - 5pm                    $40 per child, per week

Late Registration Fee                              $25 per child, per week

CAMP PAYMENTS

Registration for Day Camp requires a 50% deposit. Payment plans are available with auto debit options, but these need to be set up early so the final payment is made by June 8, 2026. All payments must be made online or in our Town Hall office. **A reminder: All camp balances are due by JUNE 1, 2026. If payment is not finalized by June 1, your child may be removed from the roster and their spot offered to someone on the wait list. If you are having trouble meeting this deadline, you are responsible for calling the office to discuss your options.

REFUND POLICY

The Day Camp refund policy is as follows:

All refund requests must be made by writing to the Recreation Director.

Medical requests can be made with a doctor’s note.

We will do our best to trade camp weeks for you, if there are openings.

Prior to May 15 you will receive a full refund.

May 15 -June 1 you will receive a refund if we can fill your space at camp from the wait list. If there is no wait list, we will issue an account credit.

After June 1 there will be no refunds or account credits unless we can fill your space at camp from the wait list.

A $15 cancellation fee will be charged for all refunds and credits requested by a participant. 

This policy is necessary to ensure our staff: camper ratios, to cover our expenses in hiring and training staff and purchasing supplies based on an expected number of campers.

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION

The grants that allowed us to offer a free week of camp are no longer available.  However, we have a limited number of scholarships available for campers with financial need. Scholarships may cover a full or partial week of camp, depending on your circumstances. Please complete a scholarship application that can be found on the website at: https://www.colchesterct.gov/summer-camps

NON-RESIDENT FEE

Campers from towns other than Colchester are welcome to register for camp.  There is an additional $5 fee, per-week, per-child.

LATE FEE

Registration must be received by the MONDAY before the week you wish to attend. If we can accommodate a late registration (after Monday), a $25 late fee per child will apply

DAILY CAMP INFORMATION

LOCATION    

Day Camp is held at the Colchester Recreation Complex (RecPlex) located at 215 Old Hebron Road.  The facility offers a variety of amenities to support a general daily activity schedule which includes playscapes, picnic pavilion, tennis, basketball, pickleball courts, ball fields, inclusive playground, restrooms and the very fun water splash pad!

ARRIVAL & DISMISSAL (SIGN IN/SIGN OUT)

When you bring your child to camp, please be sure to sign them in with their counselor at 8:00am.  Campers will be grouped by grade, and the groups will be clearly marked around the pavilion area. We cannot accommodate early drop-off as this is our staff meeting time.

At pick up, please have your identification ready to ensure a quick and easy sign out.  A late fee will be charged if you are more than 5 minutes late to pick up your camper at 3:00. Extended Care is available from 3:00-5:00pm for an additional fee but pre-registration is required.

 Communication is really important- our camp staff are happy to discuss your child’s camp experience. Your feedback is very important, and you are always welcome to meet with the camp directors, specialists, or your child’s counselor.

CAMP LUNCHES FROM THE CONCESSION STAND

Mel’s Downtown Creamery operates the concession stand at the RecPlex. They are working with us to provide camp lunches that are ordered and paid for ahead of time. More information will be available soon.

WHAT WE DO AT CAMP

We make memories that last a lifetime in a safe and nurturing environment all day, every day! Day Camp strives to expand imagination, creativity and friendships.  Team building activities, enriching games, and a variety of athletics provide a perfect vehicle for building self-confidence, self-esteem, and physical fitness for all our campers through a non-competitive positive environment.  Children are encouraged to reach individual goals and levels of success while having FUN! At the same time, they learn to feel wonderful about their individual abilities and talents while developing the values of teamwork, friendship and good sportsmanship. 

 Each day at camp offers a variety of programs such as drama, nature, sports & games, arts & crafts, music, STEAM, and many other team building activities.   Our special events are designed around our weekly themes complete with costumes, activities, and special guest performers that are a memorable part of every camper’s summer.  It’s no wonder camp creates friendships that last a lifetime!

FIELD TRIPS/ENTERTAINERS

We take pride in scheduling fun and entertaining field trips throughout the summer. On the weeks that we don’t go on a field trip, we invite a guest entertainer to camp. All campers will have the opportunity to participate in both field trips and entertainment.  Both are a great way to add a little extra fun each week and make memories with new friends! Note: Trips and entertainers are subject to change without notice.  The calendar will be posted and updated as needed on the website at www.colchesterct.gov/recreation-department

EXPLORATION ELECTIVES

Each Monday, campers will sign up for special electives which they will participate in for one hour each day (excluding trips or entertainment days).  Electives will vary from week to week!  For example, campers in out karaoke elective were so inspired last summer they choreographed and performed a full song for the rest of camp at the end of the week. Our kickball elective turned into a camp-wide tournament.

RED ZONE DAYS

Red Zone or Extreme Heat Days are WET & WILD at camp!  Many extra water activities are scheduled throughout the day.  The WATER SPLASH PAD is open and running and is always a favorite for all! If the heat becomes a hazard, we will move campers to one of the schools with air conditioning.  We will send an email to confirm our location if we need to change camp locations.   We reserve the right to transport/bus campers locally as needed (rainy days, special events, etc.).  

DISCIPLINE

Our camp staff adheres to a fair but strict discipline policy.  Campers whose behavior interferes with a positive camp experience, or the safety of other campers or staff, may be subject to dismissal. The policy will be included in your online registration forms for you and your child to review together.

WHAT TO PACK FOR CAMP

LABEL EVERYTHING!!  In addition to all clothing, please label lunch boxes, towels, water bottles, backpacks, sunscreen etc.  If your child loses something, check the LOST & FOUND located outside the Day Camp Office immediately. 

All campers should wear sneakers to camp.

Water shoes are required in the Splash Pad area. For their safety, if a child does not have water shoes, they will not be allowed to enter the splash pad that day.

·Bathing suits, towels, lunch, sunscreen and a water bottle should be sent daily, all labeled.

Apply waterproof sunscreen to your child prior to their arrival at camp.  Please send sunscreen daily and teach your child how to re-apply sunscreen at camp to protect themselves from the sun. Hats are strongly encouraged! 

Campers are way too busy having fun to be using ANY electronic devices, cell phones etc. so please do not bring them. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.  If they become a distraction during camp, they may be held in the Camp Directors shed until a parent arrives to pick up the camper.

Valuables, personal toys/games/cards- please leave valuable items at home. This includes items that have sentimental value to you or your child. Camp is a very busy place, and we are heartbroken along with you and your child when something that means the world to you cannot be found.

LUNCH/SNACKS- Please send your camper with lunch and plenty of healthy snacks each day.  Do not send glass containers.  There is NO refrigerator available, so include an ice pack in their lunch box.  Please send your child a large, refillable, water bottle.  We will provide water to refill water bottles throughout the day. You will be notified prior to camp if you need to send a peanut free lunch/snack.

INSURANCE INFORMATION

We are unable to assume responsibility for injuries/accidents occurring at camp programs or at park facilities. 

PHOTO PERMISSION

Participants/parent/guardians permit the taking of photographs and videos of their children during camp activities for publication and use by the Parks and Recreation Department for promotional purposes, unless otherwise stated.