Local Activities

When Sharon Szymanski began providing private voice lessons in her home in 2000, she quickly realized that there was high demand for quality music instruction in the Chapel Hill area. She immediately hired additional teachers to help meet this demand, and before long she had added professional instruction in piano and guitar. With the growing demand, she decided to move the business out of her home and into a commercial space, where the Chapel Hill School of Musical Arts was established. The school now boasts a faculty of nearly 30 teachers, with hundreds of students taking lessons in voice, piano, strings, orchestral and band instruments. In addition, there are a range of additional musical performances, activities and learning opportunities available. Since 2000, Sharon Szymanski has worked tirelessly to ensure the Chapel Hill area has access to quality music instruction. Her hard work has paid off and the Chapel Hill School of Musical Arts now provides music education and performance opportunities to countless students each year.

Are you looking for a fun and creative activity to help you relax and de-stress? Why not try working with clay? At our studio in a secluded wooded setting, you can throw your cares away as you enjoy the therapeutic stress relief properties that clay can provide. Plus, all of our functional pottery pieces are handmade and one-of-a-kind, so you can be sure you’re getting something special. And with each piece handmade with love in North Carolina, you know you’ll be able to cherish your creation for many years to come. The creative process of working with clay can be a great way to relax and de-stress. Our studio in a secluded wooded setting offers a peaceful environment to create and explore your inner artist. Plus, you can take comfort in knowing that all of our functional pottery pieces are handmade and one-of-a-kind. Every piece is crafted with love in North Carolina, ensuring that you’ll have a beautiful and unique item that you can enjoy for years to come. So why not come and experience the therapeutic stress relief properties of working with clay for yourself? With our handmade functional pottery pieces, you can be sure to create something special that you can enjoy and cherish for years to come.

For the past 23 years, I've been dedicated to helping children and adults of all ages express their creativity. With my step-by-step instruction, I provide the support needed to give everyone the confidence to let their imaginations run wild. Each class and party is conducted with the utmost safety in mind so that everyone can relax and have a great time.

School of Rock Chapel Hill is proud to provide quality music lessons to Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and other nearby towns such as Durham, Hillsborough, Pittsboro. Our instructors are all real, practicing musicians, eager to help students learn a variety of musical styles, from singing to drums, piano, bass, and guitar. Students can master the fundamentals of rock and roll, as well as popular local genres such as indie, folk, and bluegrass. At School of Rock Chapel Hill, we strive to create a supportive and encouraging atmosphere for our students. Through practice and dedication, our students can take the stage at one of our local venues such as The Cat's Cradle - a iconic location graced by past performers such as Nirvana, Little Feat, Pearl Jam, Iggy Pop, and Public Enemy. Our mission at School of Rock Chapel Hill is to provide an opportunity for our students to develop their skills and take the stage with confidence. We are proud to give students the chance to explore their musical passions in a safe and supportive environment.

At Renner Dance, we believe that ballet technique is essential for any dancer looking to take their skills to the next level. Our experienced instructors provide professional instruction that helps students build strong technique, gain confidence, and push themselves to new heights. We also offer the American Ballet Theater National Training Curriculum, which is a 9-level program designed to give dancers of all ages and skill levels the best artistic training possible. With our exceptional instruction and the ABT’s comprehensive guidelines, our students can look forward to growing their skills and developing as dancers.

At Studio A, we prioritize quality and creativity. We understand that the definition of “normal” is ever-changing, which is why we strive to remain flexible and adaptive to the needs of our students. We believe that dance is not just an art, but a powerful form of self-expression that engages and benefits the body, mind, and soul. We are excited to be back in the studio and invite all students to come and join us! Our classes are designed to encourage creativity and exploration, so that our students can develop a lifelong passion for dance and the arts. We hope to see you soon!

In 1980, M'Liss Dorrance and Gretchen Vickery founded the Ballet School of Chapel Hill with the aim of providing quality ballet instruction to the local community. The school quickly expanded in its original home in the Village Shopping Center on Elliot Road, with Jennifer Potts and Carol Richard joining the team in 1981. In 1992, the creative planning of Gretchen led the school to its current location on 1603 East Franklin Street. The new building, designed by Dail Dixon, was recognised by the Town of Chapel Hill Appearance Commission with a Design Excellence award the following year. Today, the school offers comprehensive programs in Ballet, Preballet, Rhythm Tap, Jazz, Modern Dance, and Fencing. In addition, the Artgarden Montessori Children's House, which was also founded by the original foursome, now inhabits the same premises.

Are you looking for a performing program for your young dancer? Then the Triangle Youth Ballet Performing Company may be the perfect fit! This company is an invitation-only group that puts on two full-length productions each year. Additionally, TYBPC is proud to be a member company of Regional Dance America/Southeast, and they are responsible for choreography adjudication at the UNCSA Festival of Dance. TYBPC offers young dancers an opportunity to take their performance skills to the next level. Each year, the production is tailored to accommodate the age and skill level of the dancers. Talented and dedicated dancers will find themselves in an environment that challenges them to be their best. If your child is passionate about dance, then the Triangle Youth Ballet Performing Company may be the perfect place for them to explore their potential. TYBPC is an invitation-only performing group that offers two full-length productions per year, as well as choreography adjudication for the UNCSA Festival of Dance and Regional Dance America/Southeast. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

At Goldfish Swim School in Chapel Hill, we believe that teaching life skills and cognitive development at an early age is an important part of a child's growth. That's why we've created the "Golden Experience"! Here, kids can learn in a fun, safe place, and we offer swim lessons for infants, toddlers, and children up to 12 years old. At Goldfish Swim School, we strive to make learning a fun and safe experience for your child. Our "Golden Experience" includes swim lessons for all ages, from infants to 12-year-olds. We understand the importance of teaching life skills and cognitive development, so we make sure our environment is playful and secure. Come join us in Chapel Hill and give your child a great start with our swim lessons!

At the Kid’s Gym of Chapel Hill, we are focused on providing an environment that is positive, supportive, and encouraging. Our experienced instructors help foster physical, social, and intellectual growth through a focus on self-confidence, resilience, and determination. Children are encouraged to challenge themselves and take risks, knowing that they will learn from their mistakes and have the courage to try again. We believe that each child has the potential to reach new heights, and we strive to provide them with the tools to do so.

At Chapel Hill Gymnastics, we provide a variety of exciting gymnastics opportunities for children aged 12 months and up! Whether your child is a beginner or a more advanced student, we have the perfect class for them. With convenient online enrollment, registering for beginner-level classes is easy and quick. Plus, our prorated tuition amount for the remaining classes in the month makes it even more affordable for your family. For those intermediate and advanced students, our office is ready and willing to help find the right class for your child. Our team is highly experienced and knowledgeable in gymnastics and we’re determined to ensure that each and every student receives the best possible instruction. At Chapel Hill Gymnastics, we are proud to offer a wide range of gymnastics classes for children of all ages and skill levels. We strive to make our classes as accessible and affordable as possible, and with our online enrollment and prorated tuition amount, we are sure to have a class that is perfect for your child. Contact our office today for more information and to get your child started on their gymnastics journey!

Our instructors are experts in their field, and they will help you and/or your child develop confidence, discipline, self-defense, goal setting and leadership skills. With our programs, your child will be able to reach their full potential and become successful in all aspects of life. Our Martial Arts and Fitness programs are designed for all levels of experience and ability. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced practitioner, we can customize a plan to meet your needs. Whether you are looking to get in shape, develop self-defense skills, or just have fun, our programs are designed to help you reach your goals. At our school, we take a holistic approach to Martial Arts and Fitness. We strive to create a safe and supportive environment so that our students can learn and grow. Our instructors are dedicated to helping each student reach their highest potential and become the best version of themselves. We are committed to providing the best possible experience for our students and their families.

At Chapel Hill Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, we understand the importance of teaching kids effective self-defense techniques to keep them safe. Our school is part of the Royce Gracie Network of schools, which promotes the use of jiu-jitsu as a martial art designed to protect individuals from larger, aggressive opponents. Using proper leverage and technique, jiu-jitsu enables the smaller practitioner to escape, evade, or neutralize the more violent attacker. Our instructors are experts at teaching these techniques to students of all ages and abilities, so that they can feel safe and secure no matter the situation. At Chapel Hill Gracie Jiu-Jitsu, our goal is to help children develop a sense of self-confidence and self-awareness through martial arts. We believe that learning how to defend oneself is an invaluable skill, and we strive to provide our students with the tools they need to stay safe and secure.

Classes at our dojo are perfect for those motivated to excel in martial arts, but shouldn’t be considered a way to motivate those who are struggling. Our classes are smaller, so instructors can give more individual attention and keep lessons brisk. Instead of a business that provides after-school care and profit, we are a program that teaches adults and teens at the highest level. We also offer a kids’ program to ensure that they are prepared for our adult/teen program as they grow up. Our dojo is ideal for those seeking an intensive and rewarding martial arts learning experience. We provide a unique approach to learning; emphasizing individual attention with small classes and an ever-changing curriculum that keeps students on their toes. Unlike schools that provide after-school care and profit, we are focused on teaching teens and adults at the highest level. We also offer a kids’ program to ensure that they are prepared for our adult/teen program as they grow up. Our dojo is designed for those committed to mastering martial arts. Classes are smaller and the curriculum is constantly evolving, allowing teachers to give more personalized instruction and keep lessons moving. We are the opposite of after-school programs designed to make a profit; we are a program that teaches teens and adults at the highest level, and also runs a kids’ program to prepare them for our adult/teen program as they get older.

Our expert instructors will teach your child valuable life skills such as confidence, discipline, self-defense, goal setting and leadership to help them reach their goals. Our Martial Arts and Fitness Programs are innovative, relevant, sustainable and accessible to help empower your child for life. The confidence and discipline learned through the Martial Arts and Fitness Programs offered by our expert instructors will help your child reach their goals. These programs are designed to be innovative, relevant, sustainable and accessible to ensure your child has the best opportunity to achieve success. The focus of these programs is to build confidence and self-discipline while teaching important life skills such as self-defense, goal setting and leadership. We are committed to providing your child with the tools they need to reach their goals and empower them for life.

The Chapel Hill Quest Center is proud to be the first To-Shin Do school to open in North Carolina. Located conveniently in the Triangle, the school serves Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Durham areas. Under the direction of fifth degree master practitioner Mr. Merritt, the dojo offers an array of training opportunities including urban/wilderness survival, security tactics, and combat ground fighting. Mr. Merritt has also pioneered the school’s highly successful after-school enrichment and summer programs that are available to pre-school, elementary, and middle school students. At Chapel Hill Quest Martial Arts, the atmosphere is one of community and support. Our instructors and staff are dedicated to getting to know each student and their individual needs. We invite you to come visit us and see why we are the number one martial arts dojo in the Triangle. Mr. Merritt has been a part of the dojo since its opening and is a major contributor to its success. He has introduced our school to an impressive variety of training opportunities and has created a highly successful after-school enrichment and summer program. These programs are not only available to local students, but are also open to the whole Triangle area. Our goal is to provide an atmosphere of community and support, where students can learn and grow in a safe and nurturing environment.

With its inspiring mission to promote understanding, appreciation, and conservation of plants and encourage a sustainable relationship between people and nature, the North Carolina Botanical Garden is a living laboratory that offers a wide range of activities and educational opportunities for the whole family. From guided tours, field trips, and gardening classes to programs for special needs groups, NCBG is a place of discovery and learning. It offers a variety of events and activities designed to provide knowledge of plant diversity, ecology, and environmental stewardship. Through its research, conservation, and outreach efforts, NCBG continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to protecting our shared environment.

At Sunrise Community Farm Center, our aim is to create a place where our community can come together and appreciate the value of being part of something larger. Our goal is to nurture a sustainable model of a community farm that is inclusive of all ages. We hope to provide a place for people to learn and grow together, and to build a sense of connection to the environment, animals, and each other. This is a valuable opportunity to practice life skills that will help our community members thrive in the world today.

At YMCA Camp Clearwater, the memories of summer camp come back to life. Rising grades 1-8 will have the chance to make new friends and explore the beautiful Clearwater Lake. From canoeing to archery, arts and crafts to outdoor games, campers will enjoy a variety of activities while taking in the beauty of nature. YMCA Camp Clearwater is the perfect opportunity for your child to make lasting memories and friendships. As they explore the lake and take part in outdoor activities, your child will learn new skills and develop self-confidence. With so many activities to choose from, your child will leave camp with full hearts and lasting connections to their new friends. Give your child the gift of lasting memories and friendships this summer at YMCA Camp Clearwater. With a variety of activities to choose from, surrounded by the beauty of Clearwater Lake, your child will have the opportunity to develop new skills, challenge themselves, and make lasting connections with new friends.

From LEGO® and K'Nex® building to Robotics, Movie-Making, Drones and Video Game Design, Snapology has something for every child. With dozens of engaging programs, your child won’t feel like they’re learning—they’ll just have fun. We offer year-round programs, including spring break camps, summer camps, holiday break camps and camps during teacher in-service days. Shh, don’t tell them it’s educational!

Welcome to Cely's House, a creative haven for artists and students of all ages! Founded in 2000 by Chapel Hill natives Bill and Cely Chicurel, this inspiring environment provides endless opportunities for artistic growth. With a wide range of activities to explore, from pottery classes to summer art camps, kids can let their imaginations run wild! Cely's House Creative Workshops has something for everyone. From after school art programs and birthday parties to pottery classes and retreats, there are endless ways to get creative and have fun. So, whatever your age or experience level, let your inner artist shine!

At My Little FarmerTM, we understand that farm experiences can be hard to come by. That's why we've created the perfect farm experience for kids ages 1 to 9! Our unique classes are hosted in various locations around the USA, providing a chance for your child to explore the wonders of the farm and make memories that will last a lifetime. Our founder, who grew up on a farm, wanted to recreate the same fun and educational experiences she had as a child, but in a safe and fun way for young kids. That's why we've developed our program with toddler experience in mind. Our program is designed to be safe, engaging, and hands-on, allowing your child to get up close and personal with animals while giving you a chance to get away from the noisy and chaotic indoor options out there. Plus, you can trust that My Little FarmerTM is a quality program that you can rely on.

We strive to make the language and cultural learning experience as enjoyable as possible. Campers can explore a new language and culture by participating in a variety of activities, such as sports, art, music, dance, and outdoor adventures. Our flexible programs allow campers to choose their own path to success. Plus, they'll develop the skills to navigate the world and develop a deeper appreciation for different cultures. At Immersion Island, our mission is to provide an unforgettable summer camp experience to our campers. We are committed to delivering a full immersion language and cultural experience that will inspire lifelong learning, adventure and curiosity. Our goal is to ensure that campers have the opportunity to expand their language abilities and explore a variety of activities while having fun in the process. We strive to create an environment where campers can gain confidence and explore different cultures with guidance from experts in the field. Our hope is that our campers will come away from Immersion Island with a newfound appreciation for different cultures, as well as the skills to navigate the world.

For more than two decades, Susan Adler has been providing art lessons and workshops to adults and children alike. She began her artistic journey under the tutelage of renowned clay sculptor Tom Supenski, and has since studied and worked with other celebrated artists in different mediums. Furthermore, Adler is an experienced author and NPR writer, and has studied early childhood development through the arts at Antioch. She holds a degree in English and Creative Writing from Towson State University and studied dance at Peabody Conservatory. Notably, she was the first caucasion to dance with the African-American dance troupe at Morgan State University. The incredible Susan Adler has had an impressive career in art and education. She was tutored by the famous clay sculptor Tom Supenski, and has since worked with many renowned artists in different mediums. Adler has also written for NPR and authored several books. She studied early childhood development through the arts at Antioch and holds a degree in both English and Creative Writing from Towson State University. Furthermore, Adler is a talented dancer, having studied at Peabody Conservatory and being the first caucasion to dance with the African-American dance troupe at Morgan State University.

The choirs provide a developmentally appropriate music education to help children reach their highest potential. Through musical instruction, the choirs will develop a sense of pride and joy for audiences, while creating an appreciation for the choral art form. The choirs will also foster self-discipline, which will be essential for lifelong learning and success.

For over 30 years, Rachel has been an integral part of the Chapel Hill music scene. She has been a rehearsal accompanist for the world premiere of the opera The Inca’s Chosen Bride performed at Chapel Hill High School, and has also provided accompaniment for Durham Savoyards Ltd. and The Long Leaf Opera Company. At Chapel Hill Music Studio, Rachel believes that it takes a village to teach children to love music. She works in collaboration with parents to ensure the best possible learning experience for children. Rachel is a highly experienced and knowledgeable teacher, and her commitment to the music community in Chapel Hill is truly inspiring.

Our goal is to help children and adults learn to swim, gain confidence in the water, and develop a lifelong love of the water. At our aquatic programs, we strive to provide a fun and safe learning environment for our students. Our mission is to spread the joy of swimming by providing inclusive, unique and inspiring programs, designed to teach lifelong skills. We offer private, semi-private and family swim lessons for a variety of ages and abilities in Chapel Hill, Chatham, Durham and now Morrisville, as well as a swim team program and certification classes. Our goal is to nurture a lifelong love of the water in our students, helping them gain confidence in the water and learn essential swimming skills. We focus on providing a student-centered experience, as we strive to make learning to swim an enjoyable and rewarding experience for everyone.

At the YMCA, we believe that the potential of children should be nurtured and celebrated. We offer a wide range of programs to encourage healthy living and foster a sense of social responsibility. Our mission is to embrace and celebrate diversity, and we welcome people of all backgrounds, faiths and traditions. We strive to give every person the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity at our YMCA. We take great pride in providing activities and experiences that promote physical, mental and spiritual growth. Our Youth Development programs give children the opportunity to develop their skills and explore their interests, while our Healthy Living programs advocate for healthy habits and exercise. We also foster a sense of social responsibility through our many programs that allow people to give back to their communities. Our commitment to these values ensures that everyone can thrive at the YMCA.