Lightbulb logo
  • Slide3092
  • Slide3090
  • Slide3091
  • Slide3093
  • Slide3094

Upcoming Events

Check Currents or the Calendar of Events site for more events.

program245585
Cook Together: Pokémon Kitchen Quest
Exploration Commons
Friday, August 8, 2025 - 10:30am - 12:00pm
Ages: 6 - 12
Registration and more information
In this hands-on class, participants will create Pokémon-themed snacks inspired by favorite characters. One registration fee per group, up to four participants. For groups with children ages six and up, children must be accompanied by an adult. 

program244473
Next Steps with Arduino
Exploration Commons
Saturday, August 9, 2025 - 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Microcontrollers are everywhere and are often the unseen heroes of our modern world. From coffee makers to elevators, and even the television remote control, microcontrollers can be programmed to fulfill a variety of simple tasks. The Arduino platform makes working with microcontrollers easy, fun, and offers a way to get started in electronics. Join us for a workshop where we'll explore a few challenging Arduino projects using components from the Arduino education kits available for use in the makerspace. It is recommended that you have taken Introduction to Arduino or have previous experience with an Arduino before this program.

program256696
Teens Bake: Focaccia Bread Art
Exploration Commons
Monday, August 11, 2025 - 11:00am - 1:00pm
Ages: 13 - 17
Registration and more information
Create your own fanciful bread art using fresh focaccia dough, veggies, and herbs.

program250137
Onshape: Beyond the Basics
Exploration Commons
Monday, August 11, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Ready to take your 3D design skills to the next level? In this project-based session in Onshape, a powerful cloud-based computer-aided design (CAD) platform, we will dive further into fundamental 3D modeling techniques for creating functional designs.

Previous Onshape experience is strongly recommended.

program245187
Shrimp Ceviche
Exploration Commons
Monday, August 11, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Warm weather is perfect for crisp, cool shrimp ceviche! We'll make batches of shrimp ceviche and eat it with tortilla chips. 

program244378
Making for Seniors: Introduction to 3D Printing and Design with Tinkercad
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Learning new technology should be fun, not intimidating! Join us for a basic hands-on session where we'll create a simple 3D design project to be printed on Exploration Commons' 3D printers. Previous basic computer experience is required. No previous experience with 3D printing or design software is needed.

program244479
Introduction to Onshape & 3D Printing
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Welcome to the world of 3D modeling, design, and 3D printing. In this introductory class, we will review the computer-aided design (CAD) software Onshape by diving into the fundamentals and techniques to make a 3D-printed keychain.

program246440
Fantastic Ferments Demo
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, August 13, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn about the health benefits of fermented foods and ways to add them to your everyday diet. In this demo class, we will review many types of products, from kefir to sauerkraut, sample recipes using these gut-healthy products, and discuss how you can use fermented products at home.

program246222
Independent Project Design: Video Editing Workshop
Exploration Commons
Thursday, August 14, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Do you have a video project you want to edit together but are unsure where to start? This is the class for you! Unlike our other classes, which just cover the introduction to video editing software, this class is specifically oriented to giving you one-on-one assistance. 

During this orientation session, we'll review your current project idea and the results you're looking to achieve. You will work on this project on your own time and have access to up to two one-on-one sessions to review progress, discuss challenges, and get support for moving forward. 

Participants are responsible for bringing their video footage to be looked over. 

program246437
Cooking with Tofu
Exploration Commons
Friday, August 15, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
NOTE: This class was scheduled on July 25, 2025. Due to building closure, it has been moved to August 15, 2025. Registration is currently open and will remain open until 72 hours before class begins. 

Learn how to cook delicious tofu dishes in this hands-on class. We’ll explore simple techniques for making tofu taste great and talk about the nutritional benefits of soy. This class is perfect for anyone curious about adding more plant-based protein to their meals.

program246615
Open Sewing Studio (Bring Your Own Sewing Machine)
Exploration Commons
Saturday, August 16, 2025 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Open Sewing Studio is an opportunity to enjoy freestyle sewing with other sewists. Come in and work on your sewing projects in the company of others. A volunteer will be available to answer questions or provide feedback during this program. 

Note: This is not an instructional class; no materials will be provided.

All skill levels are welcome. You must bring your own sewing supplies and tools.

This registration is for individuals bringing their own sewing machine. You must have a working knowledge of how to thread and operate your machine to register.

If you want to reserve a sewing machine, please register for the other version of this program.

program235338
Open Sewing Studio (Reserve a Sewing Machine)
Exploration Commons
Saturday, August 16, 2025 - 10:00am - 2:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Open Sewing Studio is an opportunity to enjoy freestyle sewing with other sewists. Come in and work on your sewing projects in the company of others. A volunteer will be available to answer questions or provide feedback during this program. 

Note: This is not an instructional class; no materials will be provided.

All skill levels are welcome. You must bring your own sewing supplies and tools.

This registration will reserve a sewing machine for use. You must be certified for independent use to register for this program. 

If you want to bring your own sewing machine, please register for the other version of this program.

program245573
Intermediate Laser Cutting: Engraving Painted Canvas
Exploration Commons
Saturday, August 16, 2025 - 1:00pm - 4:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This intermediate-level laser design class focuses on the differences between creating designs and navigating unique settings on pre-painted paper canvases. It is recommended that you bring any photos you would like to engrave with you on a flash drive to help save design time. 

The longer class time is necessary for this program due to the long print times on this material. Fusion Pro Laser Cutter Certification is required prior to attending this program.

program245576
Laser Cutting Refresher
Exploration Commons
Monday, August 18, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
If it's been a while since you passed your Exploration Commons laser certification, and you could use a refresher on the process, this class is for you! Get a reintroduction to the basics of using our Epilog Fusion Pro and Edge lasers.  

This class is for customers who have already been certified for Exploration Commons independent laser use. This class does not result in independent laser cutter use certification. 

Previous Laser Certification is required.

program246480
Adobe Illustrator Skill Builder: Tools & Shortcuts
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, August 19, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Boost your speed and confidence in Adobe Illustrator with this hands-on class focused on essential tools and time-saving shortcuts. Gain a solid understanding of Illustrator features and keyboard shortcuts to help you create vector designs more efficiently. This class is ideal for those looking to streamline the design process for makerspace projects. Attendees should have a basic understanding of Illustrator and some experience creating independent projects.

program246618
Beginner Sewing Level 1: Make a Canvas Tote (Class 2)
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, August 19, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get acquainted with the sewing machine and basic tools of the trade. Learn how to work with different-weight fabrics and sew a boxed corner. Students will also learn about topstitching, reinforcement stitching, and how to use webbing to make bag handles. Apply these skills and more to make a lined canvas tote bag with coordinating handles.

Class Prerequisites: Exploration Commons' Sewing Machine Certification

Required Materials: A sewing machine and all materials will be provided

About Beginner Sewing Level 1: these classes introduce new or less experienced sewists to beginning sewing information and resources with hands-on practice.

Beginner Sewing Level 1 classes introduce and practice the following skills:

  • basis sewing tools
  • cutting, measuring, and marking fabric
  • pressing with an iron
  • basting and sewing

You can take Level 1 classes in any order, but beginners will benefit most by taking the first three classes, Class 1, 2, and 3, in sequence.

program255386
Bake Together: Soft Pretzels
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, August 19, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:15pm
Ages: 6 - 18
Registration and more information
Join us for a hands-on baking class! We’ll learn how to make delicious soft pretzels and a honey mustard dipping sauce to go with them.  

This class is designed for groups of up to four participants and must include:

  • At least one child aged 6–18
  • At least one adult
  • The remaining two spots in the group may be filled by additional participants aged 6 or older—or left open.
program248074
Chef Stories: All About Honey with Mission Beelieve
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 - 10:30am - 12:30pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn what the buzz is all about with Monica Schmitt, Founder and CEO of Taneytown's Mission Beelieve. She will share her extensive knowledge of honey bees and honey processing, including tasting several varieties. We'll make some tasty recipes featuring honey and enjoy them while she discusses the nonprofit she started. This program is offered at no cost, and registration is limited.  Please cancel your reservation if you cannot attend, so others may enjoy the program. 

For more information about Mission Beelieve, visit www.missionbeelieve.com.

program244149
Intro to Laser Cutting
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, August 20, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
This beginner-level laser cutter class will walk you through design basics, machine use, and safety procedures. At the instructor's discretion, customers who successfully complete this program will be certified to use the Exploration Commons' Fusion Pro and Fusion Edge laser cutters.

Customers aged 12 to 15 who complete their certification are required to have a certified adult with them to use the laser independently.

program244486
Intro to Adobe Illustrator
Exploration Commons
Thursday, August 21, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:00pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basic features of Adobe Illustrator. Participants will have the opportunity to learn and explore the program through hands-on instruction. No experience is required.

program246619
Beginner Sewing Level 1: Sew a Small Zipper Bag (Class 3)
Exploration Commons
Thursday, August 21, 2025 - 4:30pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Get acquainted with the sewing machine and basic tools of the trade. Learn to insert a zipper into a small cotton bag with a lining and learn hand-sewing techniques.

Class Prerequisites: Exploration Commons' Sewing Machine Certification

Required Materials: A sewing machine and all materials will be provided.

About Beginner Sewing Level 1: these classes introduce new or less experienced sewists to beginning sewing information and resources with hands-on practice.

Beginner Sewing Level 1 classes introduce and practice the following skills:

  • basis sewing tools
  • cutting, measuring, and marking fabric
  • pressing with an iron
  • basting and sewing

You can take Level 1 classes in any order, but beginners will benefit most by taking the first three classes, Class 1, 2, and 3, in sequence.

program248216
Start Your Day with Protein!
Exploration Commons
Thursday, August 21, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Guest presenter Amie Howard will be sharing the importance of starting your day with protein. We'll be making and enjoying several protein-based breakfast items. Amie, Nutritionist at BW Primary Care, will share tips, tricks, and recipes to help you incorporate more protein into your morning meals. There is no charge for this class.

program244163
Intro to Web Design: Two-Part Class
Exploration Commons
Friday, August 22, 2025 - 2:30pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the fundamentals of web design by exploring both HTML and CSS. 

Day 1 focuses on HTML, covering essential elements like headings, paragraphs, links, images, and forms to build the basic structure of a web page. 

Day 2 introduces CSS, where participants will learn how to style their pages using colors, fonts, layouts, and responsive design techniques. By the end of the program, attendees will have created a simple, styled web page—an excellent starting point for their web development journey!

program248219
Baking Basics: Classic Lemon Bars
Exploration Commons
Saturday, August 23, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 13 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Bake delicious classic lemon bars from scratch. Each participant will make a batch to take home and enjoy.

program246450
Chef Stories: Mediterranean Meatballs with Ötzi Chefs
Exploration Commons
Monday, August 25, 2025 - 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Ages: 11 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Join guest chefs Dom and Stephanie Greco from Ötzi Mediterranean Market & Eatery as they share the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean. In this hands-on class, we’ll prepare flavorful meatball recipes and explore the ingredients, techniques, and stories that make them special. 

NOTE: Children ages 11–14 can register only if a supervising adult is also registered for the program. One adult may supervise up to three children. All attendees, adults and children, must register. 

program245196
Quick Dinner Series: Shepherd's Pie
Exploration Commons
Monday, August 25, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Attendees will work alongside another guest to create Shepherd's Pie. We'll layer beef and cheesy potatoes in this baked meal. 

program244456
Introduction to Arduino
Exploration Commons
Tuesday, August 26, 2025 - 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Ages: 12 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Microcontrollers are everywhere and are often the unseen heroes of our modern world. From coffee makers to elevators, and even the television remote control, microcontrollers can be programmed to fulfill a variety of simple tasks. The Arduino platform makes working with microcontrollers easy, fun, and offers a way to get started in electronics. Join us for a workshop where we'll explore various beginner Arduino projects using components from the Arduino education kits available for use in the makerspace.

program244834
Puerto Rican Patatas Bravas
Exploration Commons
Wednesday, August 27, 2025 - 5:30pm - 7:00pm
Ages: Adults
Registration and more information
Patatas Bravas are one of the most popular items on any Spanish tapas menu. In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to fry up crispy potatoes and top them with bold, flavorful sauces inspired by Puerto Rican cuisine. Participants will make and enjoy a portion of spicy Patatas Bravas.

program246609
Intro to Basic Sewing Skills (Skill Level 0)
Exploration Commons
Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 10:00am - 12:30pm
Ages: 16 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Learn the basics to feel comfortable using a sewing machine. This introductory-level class includes the EC sewing machine certification necessary for many other classes and/or independent sewing machine use in the makerspace.

If you've never touched a sewing machine or a sewing needle, or if it's been years since you've sewed, and you need a refresher on the basics, then this class is for you.

Prerequisite: None

Materials: A sewing machine and all necessary materials will be provided.

program246445
Cook Together: Studio Ghibli Bento Bash
Exploration Commons
Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 2:00pm - 4:00pm
Ages: 6 - 18
Registration and more information
Join fellow Studio Ghibli enthusiasts for a fun, hands-on class in the kitchen. Share your love for Studio Ghibli films, discuss your favorite characters, and create a bento box lunch inspired by these beloved stories.

One registration fee per group, up to four participants, including at least one child (ages 6–18) and one adult. The minimum group size is two. Please list the names and ages of all participants (ages 6 and up) when registering.

program245873
Let's Start a Podcast!
Exploration Commons
Thursday, August 28, 2025 - 6:00pm - 7:30pm
Ages: 15 - Adults, Adults
Registration and more information
Do you want to get into podcasting but don't know where to start? Then this is the class for you! We will cover the basics of the different recording software we offer and introduce the equipment we provide in the Audio/Video Lab. 

Featured