Skate and Groove at Carver Recreation Center

Charlottesville residents have the opportunity to skate, groove, and connect with their community at the Carver Recreation Center, which offers free roller skating sessions three times a week. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a beginner, Carver’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for fun and fitness.

Located in the Jefferson School at 233 4th St NW, Carver Recreation Center provides skating on Wednesday evenings from 5-7:45 p.m., Friday afternoons from 4-7:50 p.m., and Sundays, with two sessions available from noon to 2:30 p.m. and 3-5 p.m. The center provides skates, so anyone looking to join doesn’t need to bring their own.

Every session, the rec center employees play their lively playlists, which feature iconic artists like Michael Jackson and Lauryn Hill. The music adds to the energy of the skating. “They have some really great tunes,” said local skater and PVCC student Lucia Whitmore, “they got the 70’s disco and 90’s R&B.”

The skating program isn’t just about recreation; it’s about building community. Families, students, and individuals of all ages and skill levels are welcome. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the legendary skater known to many simply as Reggie. Reggie holds a towel around his neck to mop up any sweat that collects on his forehead as he dances to the beat. He easily stands out in the crowd of skaters at the center of the ring, but he doesn’t just dance in the center, he is the center of every smiling face of the repurposed gymnasium. A local legend of the roller skating community, Reggie eagerly interacts with anyone excited to learn and dance. 

Whether you’re looking for an outing with friends or family or a chance to dance on skates, Carver’s free skating sessions offer something for everyone. For more information, visit the Carver Recreation Center’s website.