Looking to spice up your July with some engaging activities? Washington County has got you covered with a variety of events tailored for adults, catering to an array of interests. Whether you're crafty, intellectually curious, or a fan of vintage fashion, there's something on the calendar for you. For creatives, the Hardwood Creek Library in Forest Lake invites participants to connect with the natural world through "Nature Mandalas" on Thursday, July 10 at 6:30 p.m., where attendees will create circular symbols using materials found around the library grounds, an event funded by Minnesota's Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
For those looking to brush up on their writing skills, there's a "Virtual: Copywriting Tips and Techniques" seminar on Monday, July 14 at 6 p.m., hosted online via Zoom; it will cover the nuances of copywriting including headlines and crafting content that sells, while participants get the chance to work through writing challenges including their own—for interested individuals, registration is essential, and The Loft will lead the session.
Outdoor enthusiasts can join in on the "Native Plant Walk and Talk" led by staff from the Comfort Lake-Forest Lake Watershed District which happens Thursday, July 17 at noon, this event starts outside the Hardwood Creek Library and features an exploration of prairie and pond ecosystems, encouraging participants to take photographs and engage closely with nature, and with a box lunch provided, good walking shoes are recommended.
Those with a penchant for history and dolls might consider the "Day Dreaming with American Girl Dolls" event at the Oakdale Library on the same day, at 6 p.m., where not only will attendees garner some displaying tips for their American Girl dolls, but also delve into a blend of historical context and personal stories accompanied by a chance to win an American Girl Mini Doll; a Q&A session will follow, and while registration is recommended, it's not mandatory.
Dedicated to the fashion aficionados, "Fashion in the Time of Jane Austen" will take place on Saturday, July 26 at 2 p.m. at R.H. Stafford Library in Woodbury where Regency Era expert Candice Hern will use fashion prints from her collection to discuss clothing trends from 1795-1820, a period significant to Jane Austen and the Bridgerton novels, covering everything from day wear to evening attire, another program supported by the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
Lastly, a practical and environmentally friendly "Fix-It Clinic" rounds out the offerings on Saturday, August 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Oakdale Library. Participants are encouraged to bring up to three broken items for troubleshooting and free repair assistance from skilled volunteers, a community-building effort that also aims to decrease the waste of repairable objects. Attendees can bring small appliances, electronics, or clothing, and more details can be found at Washington County's website.
