Community Education - Rochester, Minnesota

“IMPACT!!” - Several movies have shown us what happens when something large smashes into the Earth. But, how many times has the Earth actually been hit by meteorites, asteroids, and comets in the past? Will it happen again? What are the real results of an impact? What and where are the potentially hazardous impactors now? Join us as we fly through space to find answers to these and other important questions. This show will be a big hit, so don’t miss it! Please enter through door #6 at Mayo High School.

“Rochester at Night” - Come view the night as it appears from Rochester, Minnesota. We will tour tonight’s constellations, as well as learn tricks, tips, and secrets for following the stars all year long. We’ll also learn how to navigate using the stars, tell time using the stars, and follow the seasons using the stars. Then we’ll take a trip into the universe! Come see what you’ve been missing every night! Please enter through door #6 at Mayo High School.

Calling all cowboys and cowgirls! Join us for the ultimate Chuck Wagon experience at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch! This delightful experience combines music, a mouthwatering barbecue, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The evening is launched by a scenic tractor ride out to Ironwood’s picturesque Chuck Wagon barbecue picnic area, but the fun does not end there! Guests will enjoy a tasty meal, as well as sing, laugh, and enjoy lively performances of karaoke! The country atmosphere will be brought to life with energetic music and line dancing routines. Country attire is encouraged, but don’t worry if you don’t have any, Ironwood staff will make sure you are all kitted out to make it a night to remember! The wagons will begin loading at the Founder's Lodge parking lot at 5:30pm, so please arrive by 5:15pm to get everyone on board and head out on time. Sorry, but no refunds after June 1st unless we can sell your ticket. All staff are requested to register, even if they don't plan to eat, so that we do not exceed the capacity of the wagons. If they wish to eat they can pay the $15 fee. Ironwood Springs Ranch, 7291 County Rd 6 SW, Stewartville.

Join us for a foam-tastic Foam Dance Party at Ironwood Springs Christian Ranch in Stewartville! What is a foam dance party? A foam dance party is just that—a party surrounded by foam! This is a full sensory experience filled with good music, delicious food, and foam fun! This pile of foam, which Ironwood calls "The Foam Zone," will create the ideal environment for you and your community friends to make lifelong memories. High-energy and family-friendly music makes the experience the perfect party atmosphere. Dance the evening away as you and your friends build foam snowmen, pile foam on your heads, create sweet new foam hairdos, and stand underneath the "foam rainbow" created by the foam cannon. A barbecue dinner will be provided prior to the dance, and refreshments will be provided throughout the duration of the event. Expect to get wet and foamy, so wear appropriate clothing. One-piece swimsuits, quick-dry clothing, towels, and water-resistant footwear are ideal choices of what to bring to this engaging experience. Don't forget to bring a change of clothes for the ride home. Foam parties involve exposure to foam and water which can be harsh on the eyes for some. It is recommended to bring swim goggles to protect your eyes if this might be an issue for you. Staff who wish to eat can register and pay the $15 fee. Meet at the Founder's Lodge parking lot, Ironwood Springs Ranch, 7291 County Rd 6 SW, Stewartville.

Have you ever wondered what happens to your books and DVDs when you return them to the library? Where does that conveyor belt take them, and how do they find their way back to the shelves? Did you know that you can request the library to purchase a book or DVD if it is not in their catalog? Join us for a tour of Rochester Public Library and find out about all kinds of services that are available for no cost at all. If you missed our tour last year then be sure to join us this time!

From 1853 to 1929, The Orphan Trains Project joined adoptive parents with orphans in countless towns throughout the vast American landscape. Based on primary records from the Children's Aid Society of New York, Orphan Trains, by Deborah Craig, brings this compelling story of hardships and victories to life, resonating with the authentic voices of a diverse group of children. Join the homeschool cooperative, Path Players, to watch their final dress rehearsal. The performance is free, but please have anyone who would like to come register as there is limited seating. Location Calvary E Free Church 5500 25th St NW, Rochester, MN 55901

Use a stick pole to fish the old-fashioned way. Quarry Hill will provide poles, bait, and fishing expertise—we’ll have to rely on the fish to do the rest! While we fish, we can enjoy the sights and sounds of spring around the pond. Please note: we have one daytime and one evening option for this popular class, please pick just one.