PHOTOS: Chesterfield celebrates 50 years of Rockwood Park

Jul 22, 2025 - 03:25

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PHOTOS: Chesterfield celebrates 50 years of Rockwood Park

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Chesterfield County's beloved Rockwood Park is turning 50, with the county holding a celebration on Saturday to mark the occasion.

On Saturday, July 19, Rockwood Park saw hundreds of visitors eager to participate in this momentous occasion.

The park's Nature Center welcomed more than 700 guests, all happy to join in on the 50th anniversary festivities.

Photos from Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration. (Photos: Chesterfield County Government)

8News meteorologist Jacqueline Waters was also in attendance, sharing her incredible knowledge of Chesterfield's weather with visitors and engaging them with interactive nature experiences.

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County officials said they were very grateful for Waters' contribution to this special celebration.

"Her love of nature and weather is infectious, her adventurous spirit is admirable and she’s as nice in person as on TV," the county said.

8News meteorologist Jacqueline Waters offers a weather and nature talk during Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration. (Photos: Jacqueline Waters/8News)

8News meteorologist Jacqueline Waters offers a weather and nature talk during Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration. (Photos: Chesterfield County Government)

This marked Waters' last public appearance with 8News before she leaves for a new, exciting opportunity in a different area of meteorological science.

According to Waters, this event was an amazing experience that allowed her to connect with so many 8News viewers.

In addition to enjoying Waters' talk, numerous attendees got to try out Gelati Celesti's custom ice cream flavor, "Rockwood Bark," during the event.

Gelati Celesti offering ice cream, including the custom flavor "Rockwood Bark," during Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration. (Photos: Chesterfield County Government)

Attendees of Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration enjoy Gelati Celesti's custom ice cream flavor, "Rockwood Bark." (Photos: Chesterfield County Government)

"Rockwood Bark," a custom Gelati Celesti flavor made for Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration. (Photos: Chesterfield County Government)

Gelati Celesti offering ice cream, including the custom flavor "Rockwood Bark," during Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration. (Photos: Chesterfield County Government)

It's described as a chocolate ice cream with caramel and chocolate-covered pretzels.

For a limited time, this flavor will be bold at Gelati Celesti stores throughout Virginia.

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Guests also enjoyed music, got air-brushed tattoos and learned more about Rockwood Park's history.

Photos from Rockwood Park's 50th anniversary celebration. (Photos: Chesterfield County Government)

"It’s fitting that July is National Park and Recreation Month, we can’t think of a better way to celebrate how far Chesterfield County has grown in its access to parks for the community, and continue that path of providing space for all abilities and ages to connect with others, connect with nature and enjoy physical activity," the county said. "Thanks for celebrating with us and we look forward to many more opportunities to engage with the community."