I can almost guarantee that cooler Fall weather is on the way. This time of year is a perfect opportunity to get outside and visit the natural elements around you. Take advantage of your parks, trails and open space in Matthews. I recommend a bike ride along the trails in Purser-Hulsey Park. There may be a few new nuggets of adventure for you along the ride. A visit to the McDowell Arts Center or Crews Recreation Center are good options also. Inside this guide, you’ll see details about the amazing lineup of programs and events that our team has designed for you. Whatever you choose, make sure you have fun doing it. Happy Fall 2024!
COREY KING Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resource Department Director cking@matthewsnc.gov
Scan to view and register for our programs on RecDesk!
DID YOU HEAR? We’re making updates to the Parks & Recreation Master Plan! Scan the QR code to learn more.
@MatthewsParksAndRecreation
www.matthewsfun.com
@TownofMatthews
704-321-7275
Ashley Murdock
704-708-1264
amurdock@matthewsnc.gov
Caitlyn Hanes
704-708-1260
chanes@matthewsnc.gov
Charles Smith
704-708-1289
csmith@matthewsnc.gov
Daniel Carpenter
704-708-1288
dcarpenter@matthewsnc.gov
Lee Anne Moore
704-708-1261
lamoore@matthewsnc.gov
Claire Malmquist
cmalmquist@matthewsnc.gov
Programs and events are offered at the Matthews Community Center, McDowell Arts Center, Crews Recreation center, Squirrel Lake Park, and Stumptown Park MATTHEWS COMMUNITY CENTER 100 E. McDowell Street Matthews, NC 28105
MCDOWELL ARTS CENTER 123 E. McDowell Street Matthews, NC 28105
CREWS RECREATION CENTER 1201 Crews Road Matthews, NC 28105
SQUIRREL LAKE PARK 1631 Pleasant Plains Road Matthews, NC 28105
STUMPTOWN PARK 120 S. Trade Street Matthews, NC 28105
We use an online registration system, RecDesk, for the majority of our classes and programs. If you are unable to use the system, please give us a call at the facility where the program/class is taking place.
The best way to register is online! You can register in person at Crews Recreation Center or Matthews Community Center, or you can call either facility and register over the phone. Online: Register for any program at: https://matthewsfun.recdesk.com/ Community/Home You will need to create a member profile if you have not already done so. To qualify for a resident rate, you must be a resident of the Town of Matthews and reside in zip code 28105.
Payment is due in full at the time of registration. Online: You can pay with any credit or debit card. In Person: You can pay with cash, check, or any debit or credit card.
If this program is canceled by the Town of Matthews prior to the start of the class, participants will receive a 100% refund. If this program is canceled by the Town of Matthews after it has started, there will be a pro-rated refund minus the number of classes taken. If the participant withdraws from the program more than 2 weeks prior to the beginning of class, there will be a 100% refund. If the participant withdraws from the program less than 2 weeks of the beginning of the class, there will be a 90% refund. If the participant withdraws from the program after it has started, there will be NO REFUND. All refunds for participant withdrawals are subject to a $10.00 administrative Fee.
Ongoing programs at all Matthews Parks & Recreation facilities are offered in multi-week sessions. Check out the respective registration page online for the most up-to-date information and pricing.
Put the curves back! Linda's classes strengthen the muscles on all sides of the body to return the natural curves to the spine. Putting the spinal curves back allows dynamic freedom of movement and helps prevent pain that comes from losing these curves through daily life and aging. Tone your glutes and walk with a bounce in your step!
Tuesdays 9:30am-10:45am Wednesdays 6pm-7:15pm 7-Week Session: August 20-October 2
Learn more about Linda's classes at www.matthewsyoga.com.
7-Week Session: October 8-November 20
Students will need to bring a yoga mat to class.
*No classes December 24-January 1*
Gentle Deep Stretch Yoga
Chair Yoga
Have you wanted to try yoga but not sure you are up to it? This class is for you! We will practice an easy, smooth, flow of basic yoga poses combined with gentle stretches and breath work. This is a great way to start strengthening your muscles, particularly your core muscles. We will begin where you are and build gently, listening to your body all the way. A key benefit is that you will develop and improve balance in this series of classes. Leave each class with a smile on your face and feeling good! Wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat.
Chair yoga is a gentle form of yoga that can be done sitting on a chair or standing on the ground while using the chair for support. A typical one-hour chair yoga session involves breath work, seated stretches, standing and balancing poses, and a final relaxation practice, much like a traditional mat-based class.
Offered Mondays & Thursdays at 10am. Sign up for both Monday & Thursday classes and receive a $10 discount!
8-Week Session: December 3-February 5
Offered Mondays at 11am
Mondays
Thursdays
July 29-Aug 19
Aug 1-22
(4-wks)
Aug 26-Oct 28
Aug 29-Oct 31
(6-wks)
*No class 9/2, 9/23, 9/30, 10/7, 10/14*
*No class 9/19, 9/26, 10/3, 10/10, 10,17*
Nov 11-Dec 30
Nov 7-Dec 19
*No class Thanksgiving week *No class Christmas week
*No class Thanksgiving week
(6-wks)
Make sure to subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay up to date with all of our program and event offerings!
Watch as young minds ignite with curiosity and creativity UPCOMING WORKSHOPS - DATES TBD in our hands-on STEM activities! From understanding Matter & Energy basics of motion to exploring chemical reactions, join us All About Motion on a journey of discovery where learning comes to life in Simple Machines Density & Buoyancy the most exciting ways. Get ready to be inspired and Magnetism & Electromagnetism Sound & Light amazed by the next generation of innovators!
Introduction to Fabric Collage - SEPT. SESSION FULL Learn how to create an exciting fabric collage-winning artist. No sewing is required! You will learn the process of creating a unique 16 x 20 piece, suitable for display. Students will purchase a basic $10 kit (paid separately) during the first class. Examples will be shown and instructions given for purchasing required fabrics and additional supplies for subsequent lessons.
Intermediate-Level Fabric Collage Class **Prerequisite: Introduction to Fabric Collage** SCARECROW FABRIC COLLAGE
SNOWGLOBE FABRIC COLLAGE
Wednesdays | October 9-23 | 10am-12:30pm
Wednesdays | Oct 30-Nov 13 | 10am-12:30pm
Learn to create cartoon characters with purpose and emotion. Learn the basics of color theory, visual development, and storyboarding. Take your drawings to the next level! For fans of Disney, Anime, Manga, Super Heroes, Pokemon & more!
Future session dates and times TBD
Sibling discounts available. Babies under 1 free with a paying student.
Mixed Ages Family Music Classes Children learning music in The Music Makers classes don't feel pressured to perform and don't feel evaluated or judged. Our lessons are based on the philosophy of Carl Orff and the American Orff Schulwerk Association that children learn best by experiencing musical elements through singing, moving, dancing, playing instruments and improvisation. In our classes, children 5 and under learn to keep a steady beat, match pitch, be creative and self-expressed, improvise, accompany and participate in group music making.
Thursdays at 10am
10-Week Session
Thursdays at 11am
Sept 12-Nov 22 *No class 10/10 & 11*
Fridays at 10am
Dec 5-20 *3-wk session price!
Matthews Ballet and Dance is a school-year program, running from August to May. We structure our program by splitting the year into 3 sessions/payment installments. This way, students and parents are not obligated to commit to an entire year upfront and can drop at any time, if need be. We notify parents as sessions become available online for registration. If you wish to participate in the end-of-year recital in May, you must be signed up by the second session of the year.
Nutcracker Ballet Auditions Saturday, Sept. 7 10:30am-11am 11am-11:45am 12pm-1pm
Ages 6-8 Ages 9-11 Ages 12+
Performance Dates Nov. 30 & Dec. 1 - Dec. 7 & 8
Classes take place Mon-Fri for ages 3+
If you want to learn tap but never had the opportunity or danced as a child and remember it fondly, this tap class is great for beginners or dancers with some tap experience. Classes will include fundamental tap technique, movements and vocabulary, basic rhythms and combinations both across the floor and center. Broadway and jazz tap styles will be taught. Required for Class - Wear comfortable clothes you can move in, tap shoes (Oxford style is best) and the desire to learn and have fun! Wednesdays | Aug 7-Sept 11 | 11:00am-11:45am
These concerts are FREE for the community, and all ages are welcome! Concerts take place inside of the Fullwood Theater. Concert Dates October 29
Tuesday
7:30pm
March 6
Thursday
7:30pm
May 1
Thursday
7:30pm
Join us for all the fun, laughs and PRIZES on Thursday, September 5 at the Matthews Community Center at 7 pm.
SCAN What is Comedy Bingo? It’s a super special fusion of humor FOR and bingo excitement! We’ll provide comedy, bingo cards TICKETS and lots of prizes. You bring the laughs. Tickets are $15 per person in advance or $20 at the door the day of the show. Admission to this show is 21+ Note: Online tickets are exclusively available via Eventbrite and the Town of Matthews. Tickets via third-party sellers are NOT valid.
TICKETS FOR ALL HOLIDAY EVENTS GO ON SALE FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 1 AT 9AM! The Nutcracker Ballet
Mischief Kits
November 30 & December 1 Parents! Do you have a tiny visitor from the North Pole that visits in December? Let us help you out this holiday season! We have created 24 days of Mischief Kits December 7 & 8 to make sure your tiny visitor has something creative to get into each of these Photos with Santa days. These kits are completely packaged, with individual days packaged December 14 separately. Most all supplies are included in these kits; there may be one or two things you can add from home to enhance the mischief! Elves are not included Noon Years Eve Party with these kits; you must purchase or have that on your own. There are enough December 31 supplies for one elf in each kit. The price includes 24 days of Mischief!
Ongoing programs at all Matthews Parks & Recreation facilities are offered in multi-week sessions. Check out the respective registration page online for the most up-to-date information and pricing.
Classes offered for Adults, Preschoolers, and Families one Saturday a month starting in September. Each month will have a new project theme!
Pre-K Glaze | 8am-8:45am | Ages 3-6 w/ an adult Family Clay Workshop | 9am-10am | Ages 6+
September 14
November 9
Pottery Play | 10:15am-11:15am | Ages 18+
October 12
December 7
Pottery classes for adults. Beginners learn while experienced students continue with their own projects and are self directed. All materials are provided and all levels are welcome!
Wednesdays from 6:30pm-8:15pm
Open studio available on select weekend dates.
Fall Classes 1: August 28-October 16 Fall Classes 2: October 23-December 18 *No class 11/27*
Homeschool art classes will introduce students to different art mediums and artists. Clay/ceramics will be the primary focus but the class will also explore additional techniques and mediums such as oil pastels, watercolors, and mosaics. Homeschool clay classes will introduce students to the basics of clay. Students will learn coil, slab and pinch pot techniques as well as work on the pottery wheel.
Future class dates and times TBD
Classes will focus on traditional watercolor painting. Classes include but not limited to materials, composition, value and color. Each session begins with a demonstration plus a discussion about painting. All levels are welcome!
Fall Session 1: August 6, 13, 20, 27, September 2 Fall Session 2: Sept 24, Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Fall Session 3: Nov 5, 12, 19, Dec 3, 10, 17
"Art with Michelle" offers supportive and creative art classes for adults with special needs. The instructor will guide students in drawing, painting and mixed media projects. Art supplies are included.
Tuesdays
Fridays
Sept 3, 10, 17, 24
Sept 6, 20, 27
New students/parents/guardians must speak with the instructor prior to enrolling in class.
Oct 1, 8, 15, 22
Oct 4, 11, 18, 25
Nov 5, 12, 19
Nov 8, 15, 22
Michelle Blackman: michelleblackman20@gmail.com
Dec 3, 10, 17
Dec 6, 13, 20
2nd Tuesday of each month | 6:30pm-8:30pm Visit www.matthewsartistsguild.com for more info.
1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month | 6pm-8pm Contact: Mary McGee at mmagee001@gmail.com
Tuesday mornings | 9am-11:30am | Upstairs gallery Bring your own supplies and enjoy painting with other watercolorists. No cost to participate.
1st Tuesday of each month | 6:30pm-8:30pm Visit www.waxhawwoodturners.com for more info.
For more information, email Steve Gilbert at sgilbert06@gmail.com
4th Tuesday of each month | 6pm-8pm
9am-12pm
These basket weaving classes are great for beginners! All materials are provided. No experience required! All ages are welcome - participants under 18 should be accompanied by an adult.
August 24: Colorful Kitchen Storage
These classes are held downstairs at the McDowell Arts Center from 9:30a-12:30p.
September 21: Decorative Pumpkins
Spaces for theses fill quickly!
December 7: Holiday Decorations
A refreshing 60-minute yoga session, ideal for unwinding in the evening! Throughout our daily routines, we accumulate tension, tightness, and stagnation, both in our bodies and minds. This class is designed to alleviate that "stuck energy" through slow movement, gentle mobilization, purposeful stretches, and mindful breath exercises. You will leave class feeling more revitalized! Classes meet on Thursdays from 6pm-7pm.
November 22: Holiday Gift Basket
August 22, 29, September 5, 19 September 26, October 3, 10, October 17 October 24, November 7, 14, 21 December 5, 12, 19, January 2 Yoga w/ Somatics + Sound Bath Savasana: Oct 12 Holiday Sound Bath Experience: Nov 16
The McDowell Arts Center is located across from the Matthews Community Center and features a FREE public art gallery upstairs where local and regional artists feature their professional artwork. Gallery displays rotate every month. The majority of artwork is for sale! Support your local artists and check out the upcoming shows: August/September MAG Matthews Alive Show November Cynthia Howard Student Art Show December MAG Holiday Show
Ongoing programs at all Matthews Parks & Recreation facilities are offered in multi-week sessions. Check out the respective registration page online for the most up-to-date information and pricing.
All ages and skill levels are welcome to step on our official-sized hardwood court for open gym basketball. $2.00 per person 18 and up; free for youth under 18
Play time varies Mon-Fri between 12pm-5pm
Open play badminton is offered every Sunday morning/afternoon for local badminton players.
Sundays 10am-4pm
$3.00 per session
Session II: Beginner Session (adults)
Session I: Advanced Session (adults) Session III: Family Session (youth and adults)
Crews Recreation Center hosts open play Pickleball for those interested in learning more about the sport or getting a chance to play with other local players.
Tuesdays 10:00am-12:00pm
Cost: $3.00 per session
Saturdays 8:30am-12:30pm
Come solo or bring friends to play pick-up basketball on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday during the months of September and October. Open runs will take place from 7pm to 9pm. This program is restricted to adults (18+) ONLY. $2.00 per participant
September 11 & 25 | October 9 & 23
Beginner clinics are designed for those who have never played or have limited playing experience. Players will work on basic skills related to movement, paddle control, scoring and etc. September 17 & November 19 | 6pm-9pm Paddles and balls are provided if needed.
Intermediate clinic participants should own their own paddle and have 3-4 months of general experience.
August 13, October 24, December 10 | 6pm-9pm
Tai Chi for Health is slow meditation in motion. It promotes serenity through gentle, flowing movements. The ultimate purpose of Tai Chi is cultivating the Qi, or life force, within us to flow smoothly and powerfully throughout the body.
Mondays | 10:30am-11:30am | Start Date TBD
Learn the most popular soul line dance steps, drills, terminology and rhythmic counting to enhance your experience. Soul Line dancing is a great form of exercise, stress reliever and most of all it’s FUN! Classes taught by Purple Charlotte Steppers
Mondays | 12pm-1pm | Start Date TBD
A one-day certification course that will give youth the information needed for effective babysitting. The course teaches general baby care, toddlers & older children care, as well as health and safety issues like choking and rescue breathing. You will be certified in babysitting at the completion of the course. facilitated by a trained American Red Cross & American Safety and Health Date & Time TBD | Check our website for updates! Institute instructor.
In partnership with American Elite Martial arts youth martial arts classes are offered for children of all ages interested in learning the basics of martial arts in a fun and active environment.
Thursdays | 5:30pm-8:30pm
Join AYSO PLAY! Soccer this fall for an immersive soccer experience led by certified youth coaches. Engage in weekly small group sessions, allowing personalized guidance through soccer skills and challenges. Weekly sessions are themed, focusing on technical skills and broader soccer concepts for an enriching experience. Be the next Alex Morgan or Landon Donavan to PLAY AYSO!
Wednesdays During September | 6pm-7pm
In partnership with the Got Next Foundation, the Crews Recreation Center will be offering private volleyball training sessions to athletes interested in taking their game to another level. For available dates/times please contact gotnextfoundation@gmail.com.
This program teaches the Olympic Sport of Fencing and is great for both new fencers and those who already have previous experience. Coach Boris Khurgin (Master of Sports in Fencing – the highest coaching classification) will be instructing participants on the fundamental footwork, blade work and tactics involved in this fastpaced Olympic sport.
Mondays | 6pm-7pm | Begins October 7
The Family Fun Night series at Crews Recreation Center returns this Fall with a fun-filled lineup of activities and entertainment. Families can expect traditional fun activities like Game Truck Night and Glow in the Dark Dodgeball, but there will also be some new fun events! Visit www.matthewsfun.com for the full lineup. Spaces fill quickly!
1st Friday of Each Month | 6pm-9pm
Parents! Plan a date night while you know that your children are being taken care of and having fun! Date Night Drop-Off is offered to children ages 6-13. Participants will engage in basketball, dodgeball, board games, arts & crafts activities while meeting new friends. Pizza and refreshments are provided. $10.00 per child; $5.00 for siblings
2nd Friday of Each Month | 5pm-9pm
Create your own custom wreath with your mom or daughter! In this class taught by Sumi B., participants will be making a Holiday themed mesh wreath. We will provide all the materials needed to complete your project. Join us to make a new wreath and your front door will be the talk of the neighborhood. Saturday | November 9 | 10am-12pm
Let us watch your child while you enjoy a day of shopping and prepping for the holiday season! Our Holiday Drop N' Shop is open to children ages 6 to 13. Our fun filled day will consist of video games, gym games, crafts, pizza, snacks and more! Monday | December 23 | 10am-4pm
Get hooked on the fun of fishing during Matthews first annual fishing tournament! All skill levels welcome and with multiple prizes and raffle giveaways up for grabs, you won't want to miss it! $10.00 per participant
Saturday, September 7 at Squirrel Lake Park
*Note that the Kids Category is currently full, however a waiting list is available.
Kids Category | Ages 15 & under | 1pm-2:30pm Adult Category | Ages 16+ | 3pm-4:30pm
Kids In Nature Day will keep kids busy with fishing, eco-friendly exhibits & vendors, animal explorations, nature crafts, games, and much more! Kids will have fun while learning about the environment. Presented by HAWK (Habitat and Wildlife Keepers), the Town of Matthews, and NCWF’s Great Outdoors University!
Squirrel Lake Park Saturday | October 5 | 10am-1pm
Dive into summer fun by joining one of our 90+ awesome summer camps! From ages 4 to 18, we have half-day to full-day adventures waiting just for you. Registration opens February 1!
Po
tter y
b a ll Soccer
volleyball
et
leg
o magic
ro bo tic s
nature
ga min cheerleading g
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Visual arts
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AND MORE!
August 6 | National Night Out with Matthews Police Dept.
December 1 | Nutcracker @ MCC
August 9 | Date Night Drop Off @ Crews
December 6 | Family Fun Night @ Crews December 7 | Winter Wonderlights
August 30-September 2 | Matthews Alive Festival September 5 | Comedy Bingo @ MCC September 7 | Matthews Fishing Frenzy September 13 | Date Night Drop Off @ Crews
December 7 & 8 | Nutcracker @ MCC December 13 | Date Night Drop Off @ Crews December 14 | Photos with Santa @ MCC December 14 | Mainline Market @ Charles Street December 20 | Holiday Drop n Shop @ Crews
September 20 | Beats ‘n Bites | Chairmen of the Board
December 31 | Noon Years Eve @ MCC
September 28 | Mainline Market @ Charles Street
TBD | Kwanza Celebration @ MCC TBD | Menorah Lighting @ Town Green
October 4 | Beats ‘n Bites | Groove Machine
Unless otherwise noted, all events are held at Stumptown Park.
October 4 | Family Fun Night @ Crews
Stumptown Park 120 South Trade Street
Matthews Community Center 100 East McDowell Street
Crews Recreation Center 1201 Crews Road
Squirrel Lake Park 1631 Pleasant Plains Road
October 5 | Kids In Nature Day @ SLP October 11 | Date Night Drop Off @ Crews October 18 | Beats n’ Bites | On the Border
November 1 | Family Fun Night @ Crews November 1 | Holiday Tickets on Sale Online November 2 | Pawsitively Matthews November 8 | Date Night Drop Off @ Crews November 18 | Deck the House Contest Begins November 30 | Nutcracker @ MCC
The Town of Matthews Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resource Department is dedicated to improving parks and public spaces with the addition of art. Artwork around Town includes murals and sculptures.
With our new interactive map of our outdoor sculpture gallery by Otocast, you are able to view a sculpture’s location & it’s photo, and listen to a narrative on each piece from the artist themselves. Scan the QR codes below to download the Otocast app; available for Apple & Android. VIEW MORE ON THE OTOCAST APP!
Hand-painted murals and vinyl wraps of artist works can be found at various locations throughout Matthews!
At the Matthews Community Center, we own and operate the Fullwood Theater, a variety of classroom and studio spaces, large event rooms, and a dance space. Facility Rentals: We can accommodate anything from a small, intimate meeting to a full stage production.
The McDowell Arts Center offers art programs and classes year-round and art-based summer camps during the summer months. A full art gallery displays different local artist groups each month upstairs.
Crews offers a full-size gymnasium and large multi-purpose room with open gym sports, activities, classes and camps offered in both spaces. Facility Rentals: We are a great place to host your birthday parties, baby and wedding showers, anniversary parties, family reunions and meetings. We also rent our full-size gymnasium to individuals, groups or schools for recreational purposes (i.e. basketball, volleyball, soccer, parties & etc.).
PARKS WITH PLAYGROUNDS Baucom Park* Matthews-Sardis Park Rice Park Stumptown Park Squirrel Lake Park* Windsor Park* *Indicates shelter rentals available
GREENWAY / TRAILS Four Mile Creek Greenway Matthews Heritage Trail Biking/Hiking Trails at Purser-Hulsey Park Eden Hall Walking Trails POCKET PARKS Country Place Park KP Park Fountain Rock Park