Learning something new or making something with your own hands is always a good idea, at any time of year. Below is a list of workshops, classes and courses that can help you develop your skills, stay active or let your creativity run.
Note: Keep an eye on the social media accounts of these local businesses for more information about their workshops.
🏠 For learning practical skills
Albanistería
Since 2020, Albanistería has empowered women and girls through handywork and basic woodworking workshops so they can maintain their homes independently and self-sufficiently. It also promotes the development of nontraditional trades.
Courses cover topics such as how to use power tools, change a lock, handle basic electrical work and plumbing, and more. Costs range from $125 to $200, depending on the skills and level of ability. Click here to see the class offerings.
El Pretexto
El Pretexto is the first culinary agro-inn on the Island. You can not only enjoy a well-earned rest in the mountains of Cayey, you can also sign up for cooking classes. From Christmas pasteles to preparing a fish or a charcuterie board, the El Pretexto team offers a different, interactive culinary experience for people of all levels.
Keep an eye on announcements about upcoming workshops and food events on their social media or on their website.
👟 For staying active
MMA Gym
This gym specializes in teaching and training people interested in martial arts such as Muay Thai, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, boxing and mixed martial arts (MMA). It also offers free Muay Thai classes exclusively for women who want to learn self-defense techniques.
Beginners who are interested can purchase their equipment at the location or consult with the professional trainers. Call 939-940-0898 for more details on membership costs.
💃 For dancing and having fun
Ballets de San Juan
Learn the discipline, grace and elegance of a dancer, like Clara in The Nutcracker or Ophelia from Swan Lake.
Founded in 1954, this dance academy and company has more than 70 years of history and academic instruction. It offers classical ballet classes for all ages, from age 2 through adult beginners and seniors. Other dance courses include jazz, modern dance, Spanish dance and restorative yoga.
For enrollment information, contact (787) 725-9140 or escuela@balletsdesanjuan.org
Salsa Social PR
If you love salsa and want to learn the more advanced moves, Salsa Social offers couples salsa courses based on your level of experience. It also offers free classes for beginners at Distrito T-Mobile.
For more information, keep an eye on their Instagram profile.
Escuela Cultural de Gíbaro de Puerto Rico
At Escuela Gíbaro de Puerto Rico, you can connect with Puerto Rican culture through dance and music. The academy, founded in 1973, offers folk ballet classes including bomba, plena and seises. It also offers baby ballet and modern dance courses, among others.
You can call 787-648-1960 for more information.
🎨 For exploring creativity
Huele A – Taller de hacer velas
Huele A is a candle shop located in Río Piedras. It started in 2020 but opened a physical space in 2024. According to its owner, Karinna Nieves, the candles are toxin-free for the home, with scents designed to evoke memories: a day at the beach, an unforgettable date night, your grandmother's house… In addition to the shop, the space offers candle-making and fragrance-blending workshops starting at $65. Keep an eye on their Instagram for upcoming dates.
The Makers
The Makers offers group workshops on making candles, diffusers and handmade soaps. Each course includes basic soy candles, practice materials and fragrances.
They also offer classes in macramé bag weaving. Materials are not included but are available for purchase at the shop. Course prices range from $35 to $190. Visit themakers.com for more information.
This content was translated with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
