Between school, activities, and everyday life, teens have a lot going on and finding something they actually want to do after school or on the weekends can be a challenge. Well look no further! Arlington County has leveled up its Teen Programs – adding even more opportunities for students to stay active, connect with friends, and explore their interests through free and safe programming.
Here’s a look at how your teen can get involved:
Introducing, The REC! Arlington’s Teen After-School Zone
The REC after-school programs are safe spaces where teens can drop in for activities, they get to choose themselves. They are places for teens to relax, explore interests, and connect with friends. From sports and cooking classes to tutoring, art and nature visits, there’s something for every teen at The REC!
Where: Arlington Mill, Walter Reed, Thomas Jefferson, and Gunston Community Centers; Kenmore Middle School. Learn more and see the full schedule here.
Teen Night Events are BACK!
Get the latest line up of Teen Nights— now rotating between select REC locations on Fridays from 6-9 p.m.! It’s all the fun you’d expect including music, games, art, eSports—plus, free dinner! And don’t miss the first Teen Takeover of the school year on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 7-10 p.m. at Barcroft Sports and Fitness Center!
Where: Teen Nights at Arlington Mill, Thomas Jefferson, and Gunston Community Centers; Teen Takeover locations vary. Learn more and see the full schedule here.
More Gym Time, More Flexibility
More drop-in gym hours just for teens and youth have been expanded across Arlington’s community centers! Whether it’s shooting hoops, blowing off steam, or just hanging out with peers, teens now have even more time set aside for drop-in play—no registration required.
Where: Visit our website for gym schedules by location.
How to Get Started: Get Your Teen Pass!
The Teen Pass is Arlington’s free all-access ticket to fun. With the ease of a swipe, middle and high schoolers can access free Department of Parks and Recreation after-school and weekend programming like The REC and Teen Nights. Teen Pass holders get access to all* of Arlington County’s fitness centers for free!
It’s free to register, auto-renews until age 18, and physical cards can be picked up at any community center. Get a Teen Pass today!
*Excludes Long Bridge Aquatics & Fitness Center. Must be at least 13 years of age.
Discover what else is in store: Click here to learn about teen trips, employment opportunities, skills development and so much more.
