One Gate

Summer in Davis: 7 Ways to Learn Something New

Summer doesn’t have to be a time when your brain rots; in fact it can be a fantastic time to learn something new! With some of your free time this summer, take a class or two and learn to cook, sculpt, even compost! Here are some ideas to get you started:

 

1.  Get Creative at the Davis Art Center

The Davis Art Center offers classes in – you guessed it – art, including music, painting/sculpture/drawing, dance, writing, martial arts, and languages. Immerse yourself in culture this summer and learn a new language while expressing yourself artistically on paper or through movement. If you picked up a catalog in person, make sure to check the website for classes that have been added since printing. If you’re a member, you get a $10 discount.

 

2. Guided tours with the UC Davis Arboretum

The UC Davis Arboretum periodically offers guided tours and presentations on topics concerning horticulture. It’s a great way to spend a few hours: walking through the arboretum and learning cool stuff about plants and nature in your own backyard. Visit the Arboretum Calendar for upcoming events; most events are free.

 

 

3. Eco Classes from the City of Davis: Composting

Composting is a great way to help save the planet and also save some money in the garden. Learn how to compost in free classes from the City of Davis. The last class was held Saturday, June 8, 2009. Check the City calendar to see when the next class will be held.

 

4. The Experimental College

The Experimental College, through ASUCD, holds classes that focus on self improvement and the arts. Take music classes and learn how to play the piano, take cooking classes and make your own sushi, or learn CPR and potentially save someone’s life someday. There are two sessions, and they fill up fast so reserve your spot now. Download the catalog online or pick up a copy around town.

 

5. Food and Wine Classes with the Co-op

If you’re a commitment-phobe or just don’t have the time for a weeks-long class, take a cooking class at the Davis Food Co-op! These classes are just for a few hours one night and you’re bound to open your mind to something new; there are also classes for kids. Check davisfoodcoop.com/classes to see what’s going on. Fees range $7-$30.

 

6. Dancing classes at the Grad 

The Grad may not seem like your typical educational institution, but it’s actually a great place to learn how to dance. Visit on Tuesday and Thursday nights to learn how to salsa (lesson starts at 9:30 PM, $5 cover) and Monday nights to learn how to line dance (check website for details and cover charges). Then stay after to show off what you learned!

 

7. Visit Explorit for free!

July 5th, 2009 is the Sunday when the Explorit Science Center is free to Bank of America customers! If you’re a BofA member, you can get in free to certain museums, including Explorit, through the "Museums on Us" promotion. (Regular fees are only $4 for adults)

 

What's your favorite way to keep your brain active during the summer?  Let us know in the comments below!

Are you on Twitter? Follow at @OneGate.

And be sure to check out OneGate for 95616 and OneGate for UC Davis!

Related:
Summer in Davis: Surviving UC Davis Graduation Weekend
UC Davis FAQ: Things to do in Davis
7 Reasons to Live in Davis, CA