City of Aiken Enrichment Programs

Start a new tradition in the joy of enrichment programs. The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation and Tourism offers enriched programs for children and adults. Now is your time to follow your passions, develop new interests, and build new skills.

Aiken Saber Academy

Join the Aiken Saber Academy to learn the sport of fencing using specialized lightsabers. In addition to fencing skills, you will learn self-discipline, focus, and other values taught in martial arts. Basic and advanced classes are available. For ages 14 & up on Fridays, 5:00 – 8:30 p.m. Register at the Odell Weeks Activities Center.

Beading with Dianne

Learn to make one-of-a-kind beaded jewelry. You will leave with a finished piece to gift or enjoy for yourself! There is limited space to get one-on-one guidance from Dianne. Sign up early at the Odell Weeks Activities Center. For ages 14 & up.

Coffee with a Cop

Part of a national effort to improve trust and build relationships – one cup of coffee at a time. Coffee with a Cop brings police officers and the community members they serve together over coffee to discuss issues and learn more about each other. Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior & Youth Center; quarterly, and the cost is free.

Dogwood Stable Coloring Book

The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum and local artist Stephanie M. Dunatov have published a coloring book featuring Dogwood Stable racehorses. The coloring book features some of Dogwood’s most iconic racehorses, such as Palace Malice, Summer Squall, Aikenite, Storm Song, etc. The coloring book may be picked up at the following locations for a $10 donation to the Hall of Fame; Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame, the H. Odell Weeks Center, Folly in Downtown Aiken, Pitter Patter Children’s Boutique, and the City of Aiken Visitor Centers & Train Museum.

Let’s Chat

This Seminar Series offers an entertaining and informational mid-day event. This potluck-style event encourages participants to bring their own lunch to enjoy while engaging in an informational topic seminar. Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior & Youth Center on select Fridays from 12:30 -1:30 p.m.

Little Free Library

Hopelands Gardens is home to a Little Free Library (LFL), a kiosk full of books where readers are encouraged to “take a book, return a book.” The LFL is located just behind the Doll House in Hopelands Gardens. Books are always free and can be enjoyed while you visit Hopelands, or you can take them home. In addition, you are welcome to bring children’s books to contribute to the library. This LFL is maintained by the Aiken Council of the International Reading Association. Free and open from 10:00 a.m. – Sunset for ages 14 & under.

Story Time

Instill a love of reading in your child that will last a lifetime. Hopelands Gardens offers the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon story and fun with friends. Held in Hopelands Gardens on Tuesdays at 4:00 p.m., March-May, and September–October for ages 8 & under. Cost is free.

Summer Day Camp

Best Summer Ever! The Odell Weeks Activities Center summer camp sessions are exciting, engaging, and educational. Kids ages 5-12 years old enjoy weekly themes, field trips, outdoor activities, swimming, indoor games and sports, crafts, and guest entertainment.

Traditional Shotokan Karate

Shotokan Karate (non-contact style) teaches practical self-defense. It will enhance your concentration, self-discipline, confidence, and emotional control while promoting health, fitness, balance, and agility. Held on Tuesdays, 6:30 -7:45 p.m. for ages 7 & up at the Odell Weeks Activities Center.

Acoustic Guitar

Learn the assorted lessons of playing guitar during an eight-week course. You will learn to play chords and songs while having a good time! For ages 18 and up on selected Mondays 1:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. at the Odell Weeks Activities Center.