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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 Hopkinton Outdoor Center.
STEM, Art, Nature, and Garden
Summer Garden Volunteer Day
Take a break from the daily rush and spend a relaxing, hands-on day in the garden! Help tend to our garden beds and harvest seasonal crops while you learn about companion planting, pest control, and organic techniques—all led by our experienced gardener. You will also meet fellow garden lovers, contribute to a shared space, and enjoy the fruits of your labor with fresh-picked veggies! Please wear comfy clothes and closed-toe shoes and bring a water bottle, sun protection, and a bag for your harvest.
Saturday, August 9
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
FREE for all ages! Please register by August 7.
Herb-Infused Oil, Vinegar, & Butter Workshop
Elevate your cooking with herb-infused oils, vinegars, and butters! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn to create your own flavorful, homemade herb-infused oil, vinegar, and butter; explore different herb pairings to create unique flavors; and receive recipes and tips for using your homemade creations in everyday cooking. You’ll get to bring home jars of infused oils, vinegars, and butters to enjoy or gift. Please bring a small jar or two to take your infused items home (we’ll provide extras if you forget), your favorite cooking apron or something comfy for this hands-on session, and a notebook for jotting down recipes and ideas.
Friday, August 15
5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Y Member $10/person | Community Members $20/person
Registration is required. Kids under 5 are free!
Cool Season Crop Planting
Member registration opens on Tuesday, August 12
Community registration opens on Tuesday, August 19
Get your hands in the soil and extend your growing season! In this hands-on workshop, we'll plant cool season crops that thrive in the fall like arugula, spinach, kale, Swiss chard, carrots, and radishes. Learn which varieties can be harvested before frost and which will grow in colder weather for an early spring harvest. Perfect for beginner and experienced gardeners alike!
Saturday, August 30
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Y Member FREE | Community Member $5/person
*Registration is required and will close on the day of the event.
Pumpkin Harvest & Cooking Class
Member registration opens on Tuesday, August 12
Community registration opens on Tuesday, August 19
Celebrate the season with a pumpkin-filled evening! We'll start by harvesting pumpkins from the garden, then head to the kitchen to whip up delicious pumpkin-based dishes. Learn simple, seasonal recipes you can recreate at home and enjoy a tasty fall-inspired meal. Fun for all ages!
Thursday, September 18
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Y Member $16/person | Community Member $32/person | Children under 3 are free
*Registration is required and will close on 9/16.
Garlic & Seeds: Plant Now, Grow Later!
Member registration opens on Tuesday, August 12
Community registration opens on Tuesday, August 19
Get ready for next season with this hands-on workshop! We'll plant garlic bulbs to harvest next summer and learn how to collect and save seeds from this year's garden. Take home your own seed stash and learn how to keep your garden growing year after year!
Saturday, October 11
10 AM - 11 AM
Y Member FREE | Community Member $5/person
*Registration is required and will close on the day of the event.
Fire Cider Workshop
Member registration opens on Tuesday, August 12
Community registration opens on Tuesday, August 19
Spice up your wellness routine! Join us to make your own batch of fire cider—a zesty, immune-boosting herbal tonic perfect for the colder months. We'll mix up a batch together, and you'll take home your own jar to steep and enjoy all season long. Bring your curiosity and a love for kitchen alchemy!
Thursday, October 16
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Y Members $15/person | Community Members $30/person
*Registration is required and will close on 10/14.
STEM in the Outdoors Workshop
Member registration opens on Tuesday, August 12
Community registration opens on Tuesday, August 19
Get ready to discover the wild side of science! Join us for hands-on STEM adventures in the great outdoors! From investigating insects to building nature-inspired creations, each week brings a new chance to explore, experiment, and get a little messy—all while learning how science technology, engineering, and math come alive in nature. It's STEM-tastic fun under the open sky!
Two days: Wednesday, October 14 and October 21
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
*Please note that this is a multi-day workshop. Registration includes ALL dates listed.
Ages 10-13
Y Members $40 | Outdoor Center/Youth Members $60 | Community Members $80
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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.