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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.
Spring 1 Session
February 23 - April 19
Registration is open!
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Gardening
Garden Helpers: Feeders & Water for Wildlife
Support local wildlife while getting creative in this hands-on workshop! Participants will build simple gelatin bird feeder ornaments and upcycled bee watering stations! Along the way, we’ll learn why birds and bees are important to healthy ecosystems and how small actions at home can make a big difference. Participants will leave with their own creations and the knowledge needed to place and care for them safely at home or in the garden.
Friday, March 20
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Full-Access Framingham Member $20 | Outdoor Center & Youth/Teen Member $30 | Community Member $40
*Registration required by March 18
REGISTER HERE
From Seed to Garden: Indoor Seed Starting Basics
Get the growing season started early by learning how to start seeds indoors for the Y’s garden beds. In this hands-on workshop, participants will plant a variety of fruits, vegetables, and flowers that will be cared for and later transplanted into the garden as the season progresses. Learn how to choose the right seeds, proper planting techniques, light and watering needs, and how to grow strong, healthy seedlings ready for outdoor planting! This workshop is perfect for beginners and anyone interested in learning how food and flowers grow from seed to garden.
Saturday, March 28
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
FREE
*Registration required by March 26
REGISTER HERE
Early Spring Planting Workshop
Jump-start your garden this spring by learning how to plant hardy, cold-weather crops that thrive in cooler temperatures. This hands-on workshop will cover soil preparation and proper planting techniques for early season vegetables, including asparagus and potatoes, along with other cool season favorites.
Saturday, April 11
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
FREE
*Registration required by April 10
REGISTER HERE
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Nature & Outdoor Education
Animal Tracking 101
In this intro to animal tracking workshop, we will be covering the basics of identifying the different animal tracks on site learning: what to look for, what can we tell about an animal from its tracks, and what other signs do animals leave? Beyond the usual rabbits/birds/squirrels, animals spotted on site include deer, turkey, coyotes and bobcats.
Ages 7+
Saturday, February 28
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
REGISTER HERE
Map/Compass 101
Ever been lost before? What would happen if your GPS battery died? This class is perfect for kids who are interested in learning the basics of map-reading and using a compass. Learn about orienting a map using land/terrain features, as well as with a compass if you have no identifying land features besides trees. Explore the different kinds of maps including satellite, topography, orienteering, and hybrid maps.
Ages 10+
Saturday, March 14
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
REGISTER HERE
Discover, Create, and Innovate!
Join us for exciting guided journeys into science experiments, coding, AI, robotics, and more! Participants will dive into curated Math, Science, and Technology concepts, brought to life with real-world examples and interactive, hands-on activities.
With progressive learning tracks for grades K–5, 6–8, and high school, students can build skills step by step while fueling their curiosity and imagination.
REQUEST INFO
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Drop-In Programs
FREE for members!
Snowshoe Rentals
With its hiking trails, wetlands, ponds, and open fields, the seasonal changes at the Outdoor Center are a beautiful sight. Check in at the Rec Hall to sign in/pick up snowshoes.
5+ inches of snow on the ground is required.
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturdays, 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
FREE for members | Community Member $5/person per hour
Outdoor Gear Borrowing
The Outdoor Center offers Y members use of our outdoor gear library to borrow for your weekend adventures! Available gear includes items needed for camping, backpacking, and hiking.
For more details, email Tyler: treynolds@metrowestymca.org
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Questions?
For gardening, please contact Lindsey Bogott. For STEM, please contact Tyler Reynolds.
Become a Member
When you join the Y, you get more than just a gym and pool. You get a community of people who can support your goals. Member benefits include unlimited group exercise classes and 30-50% off programs like swim lessons, sports, fitness, adventure, and camp!
Financial Assistance
The Y believes that finances should not be an obstacle to healthy living. We are able to offer financial assistance to help cover the cost of membership and programs, thanks to generous donations to our Annual Campaign. Learn more about financial assistance options.
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