Grateful for a Community That Keeps Us Learning
One thing we never take for granted in DeKalb County is how many ways there are to enrich yourself right here at home. This is a community that understands learning doesn’t stop at graduation — it continues through art, food, movement, creativity, wellness, and connection.
At Local Exposure, we’re constantly reminded how lucky we are to live in a place where you can take a class, try something new, or sharpen a skill without leaving the county. Whether you’re looking to slow down, challenge yourself, or just do something for you, our community makes it possible.
Here are some of the incredible places offering classes, workshops, and lessons across DeKalb County.
🎨 Art, Creativity & Making Things
Jubilee Artisans
A creative hub offering a wide range of art workshops and hands-on classes guided by local artists. Welcoming for beginners and experienced creatives alike.
👉 https://www.jubileeartisans.com/shop/creative-workshops/
Chelsea McGhee Studios (Sycamore)
Art classes and creative instruction focused on personal expression, themed workshops, and skill-building in a supportive studio setting.
👉 https://www.chelseamcghee.com/
35:35 Maker’s Collective
A maker space with rotating creative classes and workshops — including candle making and other hands-on experiences. Pre-registration required.
👉 https://www.3535makerscollective.com/
Blumen Gardens (Sycamore)
More than a garden center, Blumen Gardens hosts seasonal workshops and classes such as floral design, tea blending, and nature-based creative events.
👉 https://blumengardens.com/
🥗 Health, Wellness & Cooking
Leishman Culinary Center at Kishwaukee Hospital
Healthy cooking and nutrition classes designed to help people build practical, sustainable habits in the kitchen.
👉 https://www.nm.org/patients-and-visitors/classes-and-events/leishman-culinary-center
Rudy’s Healthy Meal Prep Workshop
A hands-on workshop focused on meal prep strategies for healthier routines.
📅 This Thursday, 1/15
👉 https://facebook.com/events/s/meal-prep-workshop-to-build-he/856144773885221/
📚 Libraries, History & Lifelong Learning
Sycamore Public Library
Offers adult-focused programming including yoga, meditation, wellness sessions, financial education, and more. A true learning hub for the community.
👉 https://www.sycamorelibrary.org/
DeKalb Public Library & 309 Creative Studio
A wide variety of classes and workshops — from STEM and technology to creative projects like paint-and-sip nights and book bedazzling. The 309 Creative Studio expands access to hands-on learning tools.
👉 https://dkpl.org/
DeKalb County History Center
Offers classes, talks, and educational programs that help residents connect with local history, culture, and storytelling.
👉 https://www.dekalbcountyhistory.org/
🏃 Movement, Sports & Recreation
DeKalb Park District
Offers a wide range of classes and programs for all ages — including fitness classes, sports, recreation, arts, and lifelong learning opportunities throughout the year.
👉 https://www.dekalbparkdistrict.com/
Sycamore Park District
Provides programming for all ages, from adult fitness and group classes to youth sports, recreation, community events, and seasonal activities.
👉 https://sycparks.org/
Genoa Park District
Offers recreation, fitness, cultural programming, and connections to historical and educational experiences throughout the Genoa community.
Fargo Skateboarding
Skateboarding lessons for all ages — including adults — offering a fun, active way to learn something new. (Check social pages for schedules.)
Kishwaukee Family YMCA
Fitness classes, wellness programs, swim lessons, and community-focused activities for all ages.
👉 https://kishymca.org/
🎶 Music, Education & Community Learning
Aurora Music Co.
Music lessons and instruction for beginners and experienced players alike — a great place to explore creativity through sound.
Northern Illinois University (NIU)
NIU offers a variety of programs and classes open to the public, expanding access to education and enrichment beyond traditional students.
Why We’re Grateful
What makes all of this special isn’t just the number of classes — it’s the heart behind them. These spaces exist because people in our community believe in growth, creativity, health, and connection.
They give us reasons to show up.
They give us room to try.
They give us permission to keep learning.
We’re grateful to live in a place where enrichment isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of everyday life.
If you’ve been thinking about taking a class, learning a skill, or doing something just for yourself, this is your reminder:
You don’t have to go far to grow.
— Local Exposure 815