New Year, New Skills

Are you looking to learn something new this year? It’s winter, which is the perfect time to pick up a new hobby or craft. In this post, we’re diving into the world of learning cool stuff without getting too tangled up in the process. The 715 has plenty of classes and activities to hone your skills and make 2024 the year you learned something new! And, worst case scenario, you’ll at least make some memories. If you’re looking for more details on these events, check out our event calendar (feel free to use the search option if you’re looking for something specific)!

  1. Cross-Country Skiing

Beaver Creek Reserve is hosting cross-country skiing lessons throughout the first few months of 2024, weather permitting. Learn how to embrace winter and get some exercise in while tearing up the trails and having some fun with fellow newbies. These classes cost $12 for members and $15 for non-members. Strap those skis on and let’s get going!

  1. Knitting / Crocheting

Want to learn to knit or crochet? It’s a skill you can easily teach yourself with the help of the internet, or the numerous fiber arts clubs around the 715! Stop by Altoona Public Library, L.E. Phillips Memorial Public Library, or a few other spots to crochet and knit with other fiber artists. Check out our events calendar to see when some of these clubs meet! (Pro tip: search “knit” to see them all.)

  1. Dancing

CollECtive Arts is teaching adults how to dance, whether it be contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, or tap dancing. If you’ve always wanted to learn to dance, check this out! Each day has a different style of dance, and it costs $5. 

  1. Mixology

Learn all about cocktails with the Confluence Cocktail Club, which meets at Helix once a month. In January they’re talking about martinis. If you’ve been interested in learning about cocktails and mixology, this is the perfect opportunity to dip your toes in.

  1. Yoga

Latitude 44 Yoga is teaching a 4-week class intended for beginners, so check it out if you’re an  aspiring yogi! They’ll be teaching alignment, basic yoga practices, and breathing techniques. It’s $30 for members and $38 for non-members. 

  1. Terrarium-Building

Verdant Curiosities is hosting a class where you can build your own terrarium, and it’s $48 with all materials included. You’ll be guided through how to build the terrarium, as well as how to care for it when you leave.

  1. Snowshoeing

Beaver Creek Reserve will guide you through how to snowshoe, the different styles of snowshoes, and how and where to use them. It costs $12 for members and $15 for non-members.

  1. Cooking

If you’d like to take a cooking class, why not make some delicious potstickers with Kitchen Technique? You’ll learn about varieties of potstickers, how to make them, and then you’ll get to enjoy them! They’ll also have drinks available for purchase. This class takes place at Forage and costs $60.

  1. Sign Language

UWEC is presenting a class on Sign Language, open to anyone 18 and over. This is such a valuable skill, and you can learn it for only $119! Check out the link to learn more.

So, what’s stopping you? Get out there and learn something new! This is also a great time to embrace new experiences and try new things. Who knows, maybe you’ll pick up a hobby for life!