CTX Learning Festival is on for 2025! Start planning how you’ll learn across Central Texas through the experiences below!
Find learning experiences by searching by city, day, type, audience, or theme
Or see all below!
How to Make Irish Coffee with Austin Limerick Alliance
Did you know that the World's famous drink was invented here in Foynes, Co. Limerick in 1943? Watch as Tour Guide Helen Enright tells you the story of how that happened and also shows you how to make the perfect Irish Coffee.
Sláinte
Self-Guided
No registration needed
Access video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LbD4AswU434
Online
Asynchronous K-12 STEM Outreach Workshop
Earn the WiSTEM K-12 STEM Outreach Online Workshop Certificate of Completion
The UT Austin Women in STEM (WiSTEM) K-12 STEM Outreach Workshop is designed to help you understand research-based effective practices in STEM outreach to K-12 audiences. These practices are also great for public STEM outreach and engagement, formal classroom STEM activities, out-of-school STEM activities, and more!
The workshop will take about 30 minutes to watch and review. A completion certificate and a list of all the resources shared in the online workshop presentation will be emailed to you upon completion.
Asynchronous STEM Girl Day Landmarks Scavenger Hunt
Works of public art have the capacity to resonate deeply, stimulate curiosity, and inspire the imagination in unexpected ways. At The University of Texas at Austin, the public art collection is one of the most distinguishing features of the main campus, shaping impressions and offering a distinctive setting for memorable experiences.
As the university’s public art program, Landmarks enriches the lives of students and visitors by presenting art that is broadly accessible and free to all. Some fifty works of modern and contemporary art are throughout the 433-acre campus and viewed by thousands of people every day.
To embark on the scavenger hunt download the STEM Girl Day Landmarks Scavenger Hunt.
As you discover each work in Landmarks' public art collection, investigate it from a STEM perspective:
How many beams, boats, or mountains make up the works of art?
How is the art made? What materials were used and why?
What engineering or physics was used to create the sculptures?
What other science, technology, engineering, or math might have been used to design, create, build, manufacture, or place the art?
City of Georgetown Staff Art Show
Every other year, the Georgetown Public Library hosts a special art exhibit featuring works created by current City of Georgetown employees. The show is a chance for municipal employees to show off their creative side.
Self-Guided
Wheelchair accessible
Adulting 101
This event is to learn skills needed to be successful inside and outside the classroom. This event is free and open to the community.
Multiple workshops and presenters
Registration required: https://forms.gle/sYsdgaFPUCbgy7cQ9
Limit 150 people
Wheelchair accessible
Karen Limbaugh: Doors and Windows of the World
Karen Limbaugh has been a photographer for many years; starting with a film camera and moving on to a digital camera. She says "I enjoy photographing landscapes, flowers, and doing macro photography. I am branching out and trying my hand at street photography. I have had the opportunity to travel over the last several years across the United States and abroad. I find that I am drawn to interesting doors and windows."
Self-Guided
Wheelchair accessible
South Austin Basket Weavers
The South Austin Basket Weavers meet each Friday to explore various techniques in basket weaving. Members can connect newcomers to more information and resources.
Facilitators to be announced
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Serving the whole family
Join us for family fun! Our program promotes healthy living for everyone—children, youth, adults, and seniors. Explore educational STEM lessons, wellness support, and nutritious food on-site. We also offer entrepreneurial and job search services. We can't wait to see you and have a great time learning together!
Facilitated by Sonya Hosey
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
History of African Americans in San Marcos, Texas
Come hear the story of African Americans in the city of San Marcos, Texas and learn about local history and the remarkable people who have lived and created and contributed to the city and the world. Located on a collection of historical African American properties in the historic Dunbar neighborhood. Self-Guided exploration and guided museum tours both available.
Tours given by Calaboose African American History Museum guides
No registration needed
Limit 15 people per tour
Wheelchair accessible
Toddler Music Circle
Bring your favorite little one to stretch, sing, dance & explore music with rhythm instruments! Program length can vary. Focuses on the Sing and Play recommendations for early literacy which helps develops gross motor skills, listening skills, and social skills, while introducing new vocabulary.
Join us for a musical storytime just for toddlers full of instruments, songs, rhymes, and dance. Stick around for a short playtime designed to help develop gross and fine motor skills.
Recommended for walking babies and toddlers 1-3 years.
Hosted by Library Staff
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Bastrop County Cares Digital Workshop - Digital Equality & Literacy Skills for all!
For most of us, computer and internet user skills—the skills that constitute basic digital literacy—have been “learned by doing,” literally through years of practice. Those who’ve fallen behind the general population’s digital-learning curve and now want to catch up often need some help to get started.
Overcoming the discomfort barrier through some form of introductory learning assistance—whether through group classes or one-on-one help—is one of the most common forms of our digital inclusion work.
“Digital literacy” and “digital literacy training” mean many things to many people, from smartphone apps and Facebook for beginners to advanced coding and network management for career seekers. Local digital inclusion programs operate training programs that run the gamut of these topics.
Our DL students come to a place where computing devices are sitting on desks or tables, usually with internet access; an instructor conducts a series of “how-to” lessons through presentations and demonstrations; the students learn and practice what the instructor shows them. In the age of social distancing, organizations have explored creative solutions around remote learning and understanding better devices like zoom, etc. All adults are welcomed , no matter your digital ability... that is why we have a comfortable inviting environment that is inclusive for all to attend. Come out and experience how we conquered at BCC the digital divide in our our rural community of Bastrop county, We have a seat ready for you!
Facilitated by Chris Lott, Claudia Munoz, and Benjamin Mercado
Registration required: https://forms.gle/LHy5L9oHEJKGhoGu5
Limit 12 people
Wheelchair accessible
Activa tu cerebro: desarrollando una mentalidad de crecimiento
Este taller tiene como objetivo enseñar a los participantes a comprender y aplicar el concepto de mentalidad de crecimiento para superar el miedo al fracaso y fomentar el aprendizaje continuo. Inicia con una bienvenida y dinámica de autoevaluación para identificar mentalidades actuales. A continuación, se exploran las diferencias entre mentalidad de crecimiento y fija, se identifican pensamientos limitantes y se promueven herramientas prácticas como el poder del “aún” y la reformulación de debilidades. Finaliza con la creación de un plan de acción personal y una inspiradora clausura, promoviendo cambios positivos y sostenibles en la perspectiva de los participantes.
Facilitated by Ana María Rojas Melo
Registration required: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc6heHSB2RDQ66z1ZPBBs0y8C-4EwVQiwz7HMM_QMO0K-bcyg/viewform
Limit 30 people
Wheelchair accessible
Toddler Music Circle
A storytime program designed for toddlers aged 1 to 3 years and their parents, featuring stories, songs, fingerplays, and games. Program length can vary.
Join us for a musical storytime just for toddlers full of instruments, songs, rhymes, and dance. Recommended for walking babies and toddlers 1-3 years.
Read by Library Staff
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Silver Maker's Class
Come design, build, and create with us in this class! We supply the materials and tools. You bring your creativity. Make your own laser cut suncatcher to brighten your home. This program is for adults age 55 and older only.
Hosted by Library Staff
Registration required: https://cedarparkpl.librarycalendar.com/event/silver-makers-class-9728
Limit 22 people
Wheelchair accessible
Textiles: The History and Methods Behind Fiber Based Arts
Join the Brush Square Museums staff for an exciting dive into the art of textiles! This workshop is designed for participants of all ages, and will explore both the historical significance and the practical aspects of textile production from knitting to weaving. There will also be opportunities for hands-on learning.
Facilitated by Elisabeth CreMeens and Hannah Bancroft
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Early Literacy Playgroup
Playing is learning! Play is a great way to help develop and reinforce early literacy skills. This come-and-go program is designed to give caregivers and their children time to explore together. Toys, board books, and a weekly craft will be provided.
Recommended for ages 5 and under
Hosted by Library Staff
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
The Empowered Caregiver: Communicating Effectively
As people living with dementia progress in their journey and lose the ability to use words, caregivers can discover new ways to communicate effectively in any stage of the disease. Learn how dementia affects communication, how person-centered approaches can improve communication and much more.
Presented by Jody Wills
Register here: https://alz-org.zoom.us/meeting/register/INHluLs1Sc69ahddJkF83w
No limit
Gourmet Mushroom Cultivation with Central Texas Mycological Society
Join us at CTX Learning Festival and learn how to grow gourmet, culinary mushrooms. This presentation is perfect for beginners or those who would like to really dial in their at home mushroom production.
Online option: https://www.centraltexasmycology.org/events/2025/gourmet-mushroom-cultivation
Presented by Austin Davenport
Registration required: https://www.centraltexasmycology.org/events/2025/gourmet-mushroom-cultivation
Limit 40 people
Wheelchair accessible
Preschool Imagination Station: On the Farm
Designed for young learners, Imagination Station encourages learning through play. Explore the arts, practice your motor skills, and start your STEM exploration.
Recommended for ages 2-5.
Hosted by Library Staff
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Books and Babies
A lapsit storytime program especially for non-walking babies 0-12 months and their caregivers. Very short stories are interspersed with songs, rhymes, and fingerplays for babies and parents. A brief playtime follows. Program length can vary.
Un programa de lectura de cuentos especialmente para bebés de 0 a 12 meses que no caminan y sus cuidadores. Se intercalan historias muy breves con canciones, rimas y juegos con los dedos para bebés y padres. Sigue un breve tiempo de juego. La duración del programa puede variar. El programa será principalmente en Inglés.
Hosted by Library Staff
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Meals on Wheels Central Texas – Much more than just meals
Meals on Wheels Central Texas does more than provide home delivered meals. They also offer home repair and in home care programs and are involved in innovative pilot programs - all designed to provide care that empowers our neighbors by promoting dignity and independence.
Presented by Richard Bondi
Registration required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/meals-on-wheels-central-texas-much-more-than-meals-tickets-1234219637159?aff=oddtdtcreator
Limit 24 people
Wheelchair accessible
THRIVE Marketing Strategy Workshop
Craft a roadmap to success for your business. This immersive session will empower you to identify your target audience, refine your messaging, and leverage cutting-edge techniques to maximize your marketing impact. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge needed to propel your business to new heights. Don’t miss out – reserve your spot now and pave the way for marketing excellence!
Facilitated by Claudette Blythe
Online
Registration required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1083978672389?aff=oddtdtcreator
Limit 100 people
Guitar Meet-Up Group
The Guitar Meet-Up Group is not a class but a chance for people learning guitar to practice together and help each other. Participants will need to know a little Guitar to participate.
Facilitator to be announced
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Tour of Historic Williamson County Courthouse
Explore and Tour the Historic Williamson County Courthouse with a Williamson Museum tour guide.
No registration required
Limit 20 people
Wheelchair accessible
Knit and Crochet Group
This knitting circle is open to knitters and crocheters, whether you’re just picking up yarn and needles for the first time or have been knitting for years. Bring your own projects to work on and show the group. This program is for ages 18+ only.
Hosted by Library Staff
Register here: https://cedarparkpl.librarycalendar.com/event/knit-and-crochet-group-6257
No limit
Wheelchair accessible
Adult Craft - Lucky Paper Clovers
Join us for a craft tutorial! We’ll be making lucky paper clovers.
Facilitated by Elgin Public Library Staff
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Tour of Historic Williamson County Courthouse
Explore and Tour the Historic Williamson County Courthouse with a Williamson Museum tour guide.
No registration required
Limit 20 people
Wheelchair accessible
Get to Know Your Austin Commissions with City of Austin Joint Inclusion Committee
The City of Austin has over 65 active Boards & Commissions. Learn about them, find out how to apply and any special requirements. Most of them don't require special expertise, merely lived experience in a specific area.
Presented by Richard Bondi
Registration required: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/get-to-know-your-austin-commissions-tickets-1234142586699?aff=oddtdtcreator
Limit 24 people
Wheelchair accessible
Lego Lab
With Legos, you can build anything you can imagine and tell any story you can dream up. Come to Lego Lab to hear, see, make, and create different stories, all while building with Legos provided by the Library! Program length can vary, please call branch for details.
Con Legos, puedes construir cualquier cosa que puedas idear y contar cualquier historia que puedas imaginar. ¡Ven al Laboratorio Lego para escuchar, ver, hacer y crear diferentes historias, todo mientras construyes con Legos proporcionados por la Biblioteca!
Hosted by Library Staff
No registration needed
Wheelchair accessible
Tour of Historic Williamson County Courthouse
Explore and Tour the Historic Williamson County Courthouse with a Williamson Museum tour guide.
No registration required
Limit 20 people
Wheelchair accessible
Trash to Treasure
Join us for a come-and-go STEM-based crafting event. Each month will feature a different challenge using recycled materials and March is PUPPETS. Take on the challenge with the materials provided or create something else; it’s up to you and your imagination! This event is recommended for families with children ages 5 – 12 years old but all ages are welcome.
Materials will be available while supplies last on a first come, first served basis.
Facilitated by Diane Sikkenga/Self-Guided
Limit 48 people
Wheelchair accessible
Stronger Texas Zumba and Nutrition Education Class
ZUMBA® is a fusion of Latin and International music / dance themes that create a dynamic and exciting workout. The routines feature aerobic/fitness interval training with a combination of fast and slow rhythms that tone and sculpt the body. All fitness levels are welcome!
Facilitated by Maty Chatelain
Registration required: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OIQbDUDxTcOEqv1tZrDsgw#/registration
Limit 500 people
Pet First Aid (Dogs and Cats)
Do you know how to respond if your dog or cat experiences an emergency at home? We will discuss common emergency scenarios and first aid that can be given by the pet owner prior to arrival at a veterinary emergency hospital.
Facilitated by Elizabeth Warren, LVT
No registration required
Limit 24 people
Wheelchair accessible
International Folk Dancing by the Austin International Folk Dancers
This is an opportunity to learn dances from many parts of the world. The dances will be taught by experienced dance teachers, and interspersed with demonstration dances by the Austin International Folk Dances. All ages are welcome at this event!
There will be several teachers of dance at this event
No registration needed
Limit 50 people (due to parking constraints)
Wheelchair accessible
Adultish: Regency Dancing
English country dancing was one of the most popular dance forms of the Regency period. From raucous and rowdy to graceful and romantic, it will put a lift in your step and joy in your heart. Come and learn the basics! You’ll be dancing in no time to beautiful music. No partner necessary, and no fancy dress required. Just wear comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes.
Instructor to be announced
No registration needed
Not adapted for wheelchair accessibility