Community Education - Rochester, Minnesota

Forest bathing is a practice of immersing yourself in a forest, using all your senses to connect with nature for physical and mental health benefits, including reduced stress, anxiety, and improved mood and immune function. The practice involves mindful observation, deep breathing, and slow, intentional sensory engagement with the natural world, often by slowing down and avoiding digital devices. Participants can expect to learn mindfulness techniques while deepening their appreciation for the natural world. Popular in Japan, Forest Bathing or Shinrin-yoku is prescribed by Japanese physicians for its many health benefits. Meet at the Quarry Hill parking lot. Participants should wear comfortable shoes for a short walk. Participants can bring a lawn chair or blanket for sitting on the ground. Participants will be encouraged to remove their shoes for the session, but may wear socks or moccasins. Being in contact with the ground is an important aspect of Forest Bathing. Rain Dates are Sunday, May 17th at 1pm and Sunday, May 31st at 1PM.

Pinot Noir lovers know the magic of a wine that is elegant, expressive, and beautifully balanced. But what if you could discover other grape varieties that offer similar charm while opening the door to new regions and flavors? In this class, we will explore several lesser-known grape varieties that share qualities with Pinot Noir—wines that highlight bright acidity, silky textures, and nuanced aromatics. If you love Pinot Noir but aren’t sure where to begin when branching out, this class will guide you through some exciting alternatives. Together we’ll taste 4–5 wines from around the world that echo the finesse and food-friendly character of Pinot Noir, while showcasing their own unique personalities. Wine only served to 21+ with ID.

A beloved coming-of-age drama. Jo March desperately wants to be a writer — an unusual dream for a teenage girl in 1860s Massachusetts. With her father away during the Civil War, Jo and sisters Meg, Beth and Amy, at home with their mother Marmee, remain joyful and dutiful despite their modest circumstances. As time passes, the women in the family grow ever closer as they navigate love, loss and new beginnings. Yearning for independence, Jo is emboldened by her sisters to channel her angst into her stories, eventually finding her place in the world as a published author. This new adaptation of the beloved classic celebrates the wonderful and trying transition from girlhood to adulthood. * Fee includes coach transportation, lunch at The Local (choice of Local fish & chips, Shepherd’s Pie, or Mac & Cheese served with a beverage and dessert), and theatre ticket in the McGuire Proscenium Stage Theater. * 9:30 AM Depart Northrop Parking Lot * 6 PM Approximate return * No refunds after February 1 * Fee: $115

The Dark Matter Mystery - What holds the universe together? What causes the universe to look and act the way it does? This planetarium show helps you understand why we think Dark Matter exists, and why it is so mysterious! Suggested ages 12 and up. Please enter through door #6 at Mayo High School.

In this relaxing, hands-on art workshop, we will explore the therapeutic power of mandalas as a tool for both mindfulness and self-expression. You will use simple tools - paper, a straight edge, a compass, and a pen - to draw simple patterns that will form a meditative mandala. This will be a gentle, non-judgmental space to focus on the process, let go of perfection, and tap into your natural creative flow. No prior art or meditation experience is necessary—just bring curiosity, an open mind, and a willingness to explore your creativity.

Join us at the S.M.A.R.T. Garden as we discover Minnesota songbirds that may inhabit this unique landscape of prairie, pond, and mature trees with soft landing perennials. We will discuss common birds found in these habitats and how we can best support these populations. Following our birding experience at the garden, we will end with building a birdhouse (supplies provided). During this project, we will share special birdhouse features and important considerations to make when installing and maintaining your birdhouse. This class will be held outdoors (weather permitting), you will be contacted if the event is rescheduled due to weather. Chairs will be provided.

There is nothing like summertime in Twins Territory. The ballpark, the fun, the food, the game. Plan to create memories with family and friends at a Twins game this year! Fee includes coach transportation, covered lower seating in section 108, and $10 in food coupons. 10:30 AM Depart Northrop Parking Lot 6:30 PM Approximate return No refunds after May 1 Fee: $119

Join Community Ed on a spring trip to the Twin Cities. We will stop by Bachman’s Ideas House - it’s a fitting place to see some great decorating ideas and get you in the mood for spring. We will enjoy lunch at Patrick’s Bakery at Bachman’s. Then we will visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Registration Deadline: March 15. * Fee includes coach transportation, entrance fees to Bachman's Spring Ideas House, Lunch at Patrick’s Bakery (choice of Ham and Cheese Croissant, Tomato/Mozzarella Sandwich, or Turkey Sandwich all served with salad, beverage, and dessert) and tour of the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden! * 9 AM Depart RCTC Sports Center Parking Lot * 4:30 PM Return * No refunds after March 15 * Fee: $115

Stillwater, located on the scenic St. Croix River, is the birthplace of Minnesota—founded in 1848! Join us for this new, relaxing cruise onboard the Andiamo, the best way to see the St. Croix River. While on the cruise, enjoy a tasty buffet. * Fee includes coach transportation, buffet lunch (Assortment of deli style lunch meats and cheeses with all the toppings, fresh fruit, a salad, a beverage, and a cookie) on the Riverboat, and two-hour cruise. * 9:15 AM Depart RCTC Sports Center Parking Lot * 3:45 PM Approximate return arrival * No refunds after May 1 * Fee: $115