STEM, Art, Nature, and Garden at the Outdoor Center!

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Come explore a wide range of subjects through hands-on activities in STEM, art, nature, and gardening! These engaging experiences spark curiosity, fuel creativity, and make learning fun—helping you discover new interests and passions along the way.

All classes, workshops, and events will be held at the Framingham Branch or Hopkinton Outdoor Center.

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Plant-Based Dyeing Workshop (Ages 13+)

Learn how to create beautiful, natural colors using plants! In this beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop, we’ll explore simple plant-based dyeing techniques using flowers, leaves, and kitchen botanicals. Participants will dye their own fabric piece to take home and learn to create natural dye projects with plants from your garden or local landscape. No experience needed. *Registration required

Saturday, June 6 | 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Full-Access Framingham Member $15 | Outdoor Center & Youth/Teen Member $23 | Community Member $30

Spring Stained Glass: Feather Suncatcher Workshop (Beginner Friendly) (Ages 18+)

Join us for a fun and creative one-day stained glass workshop where you’ll craft your own elegant stained glass feather using the traditional Tiffany-style copper foil method. This beginner-friendly class walks you through each step of the process—from cutting and grinding your glass pieces to foiling and soldering them into a beautifully polished design.

You’ll explore color, texture, and shape as your feather takes form. Whether you choose bold hues or soft, airy tones, you’ll leave with a finished piece of art you can proudly display or gift.

(Ages 13-18 if accompanied by an adult)

May 9 | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Full-Access Framingham Member $65 | Outdoor Center & Youth/Teen Member $70 | Community Member $100

Spring Planting Party Volunteer Day (Ages 13+)

Enjoy some sunshine and relaxing spring planting while supporting our Farm-to-School program! Come help us get our seedlings in the ground so we are able to continue providing fresh local produce to the kids in our programs! Learn how to plant all sorts of fruits and vegetables and ask any gardening questions you may have!

Saturday, May 2 | 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

FREE

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Intro to Hiking (Ages 7+)

Aimed at youth ages 7–12, this workshop will cover basic hiking/outdoor skills including map-reading, using a compass, first aid, terrain navigation, and common gear. Participants will go on a short hike to showcase and practice skills. Please bring appropriate clothing, a water bottle, and snack.

Ages 7+ (at least 1 guardian required to attend)

Saturday, May 9

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM

All Y Memberships FREE | Community Member $10/person

Learn to Play Disc Golf (Ages 10+)
In this introductory class, participants will learn the basic rules of disc golf, types of discs, and common throwing techniques such as backhand, forehand, and putting. The program also covers beginner-friendly equipment, and tips to avoid common mistakes—making it a fun way to get active outdoors and build your skills. This is a 2-week program that meets once per week.

Two Thursdays | 5:30–6:30 PM
April 30 & May 7 OR May 21 & May 28

Full-Access Framingham Member $25 | Outdoor Center & Youth/Teen Member $40 | Community Member $55

3v3 Outdoor Basketball League (Grades 6-12)
Grab a couple friends and hit the outdoor courts for fast-paced 3-on-3 basketball! This league keeps everyone involved with more shots, and nonstop action each game. Teams of 3–4 will compete in weekly games with YMCA staff creating a supportive, positive environment focused on connection, encouragement, and growth. The league emphasizes teamwork, sportsmanship, and fun while giving players a great opportunity to enjoy basketball outdoors on our new courts. Divisions are offered for boys and girls in Middle School (Grades 6–8) and High School (Grades 9–12).

Wednesdays | 6:00–8:30 PM
Teams of 3–4: $236 | Individual: $78
Don’t have a team? We’ll pair you with one!

Beginner Archery: (indoor) (ages 6+)
Our Beginner Archery program works on range safety and foundational archery skills: identifying the parts of the bow and arrow, how to hold equipment, stance, and other information. All equipment is provided!

Saturdays, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM (no class 5/23)
Beginner/Intermediate Archery: (indoor)
Class focuses on foundational archery skills: identifying the parts of the bow and arrow, how to hold equipment, stance, and other information. All equipment is provided!
Saturdays, 10:15 AM – 11:15 AM (no class 5/23)

Advanced Archery: Ages 8+ (indoor)
Students will hone in on their form, learn range/competition commands, and learn stringing, waxing, and re-fletching of gear. To participate, you MUST have instructor approval.

Saturdays, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (no class 5/23)

Full-Access Framingham Member $77 | Outdoor Center + Youth/Teen Member $85 | Community Member $155

Adult Belay Class (Ages 18+)
Learn how to belay and manage ropes to take charge of your family’s safety! After completing the course, you'll be certified to belay your family and approved guests during Friday night weekly Open Climb sessions.

Fridays, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

Full-Access Framingham Member $25 | Outdoor Center & Youth/Teen Member $25 | Community Member $35

Intro to Pickleball (Ages 15+)
These clinics introduce participants to the game of pickleball, covering terminology, basic rules of play, equipment, and court etiquette. Paddles are available.

Saturday, May 2 | 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Sunday, May 17| 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

All Y Memberships FREE | Community Member $25/person

Family Pickleball (Ages 8+)
Play pickleball with your child! Participants will learn the rules, fundamental skills, and play with other families.

Saturday, May 2 | 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Sunday, May 17| 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM

All Y Memberships FREE | Community Member $25/person

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