WELCOMING WEEK 2026

Thursday, September 10 through Saturday, September 19

Join the YMCA of Greensboro for Welcoming Week 2026! Activities are free and open to the public.

What is Welcoming Week?

Welcoming Week is a national YMCA initiative in partnership with Welcoming America. This annual event celebrates cross-cultural understanding and aims to raise awareness of the benefits of welcoming everyone.

What is the theme for Welcoming Week 2026?

In celebration of the YMCA’s 175th anniversary the 2026 YMCA Welcoming Week theme is The “Where Every Neighbor” Belongs Place. This theme reinforces the Y’s role as a community convener and reflects our long-standing legacy of welcoming people from all backgrounds—a commitment the Y proudly continues today!

Association Activities

Association-Wide

Welcoming Week Water Fitness Free Trial

Celebrate Welcoming Week by discovering a fun new way to stay active at the YMCA of Greensboro! If you've ever been curious about Water Fitness, now is the perfect time to jump in. During Welcoming Week, non-members are invited to enjoy one Water Fitness class FREE at any YMCA of Greensboro branch location.

Here's how it works:

  • One free Water Fitness class for non-members
  • Visit the front desk to sign a waiver before class
  • Choose any available Water Fitness class during September 10-19, 2026
  • No membership required. No commitment. Just come experience the Y and see what Water Fitness is all about.

Water Fitness is a great way to build strength, improve flexibility and connect with others in a supportive, welcoming environment. Whether you're new to exercise or looking for a low-impact workout, there's a class for you.

Space is limited and classes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA

For specific event details, please contact the Hayes-Taylor Memorial YMCA Membership Team or visit the front desk.

Monday | Kickoff Celebration

Facility tours and refreshments for new members.

Tuesday | Try It Tuesday

Members are invited to try a different class. A food truck will also be on-site.

Wednesday | Wellness Wednesday

Activities featuring Cone Health.

Thursday | Community Day

Connect with veterans resources, community vendors and voter registration opportunities.

Friday | Family Fun Friday

Enjoy open gym, YMCA trivia, sidewalk murals and other family-friendly activities.

Ragsdale Family YMCA

For specific event details, please contact the Reidsville Family YMCA Membership Team or visit the front desk.

All Week

Interactive World Map: Explore the many places and cultures that make our community unique.

International Snacks: Enjoy snacks from around the world in the lobby.

World Flags: See flags from around the globe displayed throughout the Y.

September 12 | 10AM-11AM

Hips Don't Lie: Hip Opener Yoga

An open yoga class focused on the hips. Registration is required.

September 13 | 11:30AM-12:30PM

Sound Bath

Join us in the pool for a relaxing sound bath experience.

Open to all. Limit of 12 participants. Cost is $15. Registration is required.

September 15 | 1PM-4PM

Chair Massages

Relax and recharge with chair massages provided by GTCC Massage Therapy students.

September 15 | 6PM-7PM

Drum & Glide

Enjoy a fun, interactive workout using drumsticks and exercise balls. Everything you need is provided.

Location: Community Room at Ragsdale

September 16 | Wellness Wednesday

Wear Green

Wear green to celebrate wellness, health and feeling your best.

September 16 | 7PM

Belly Dancing

Join us for a fun and energetic introduction to belly dancing.

September 18 | 4:30PM-5:30PM

Tai Chi/Yoga Fusion

An all-levels class combining Tai Chi and yoga. A chair will be available. Registration is required.

September 19 | World Traveler Day

Break out your Hawaiian shirts, vacation shirts, travel hats or anything that says, “I’m going somewhere!”

Spears Family YMCA

For specific event dates, times and additional details, please contact the Spears YMCA Membership Team or visit the front desk.

Cricket Demonstration

Learn more about cricket through a demonstration led by Rahul.

Soccer Demonstration

Join Michael for a soccer demonstration.

Meet Our Board Members

Board members will be available at different times throughout the week to greet members and make connections.

Community Partner Engagement

Church World Service has been invited to join us to connect with members and highlight our community partnership.