Get Creative This Spring in the Endless Mountains

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Explore Art Classes & DIY Workshops in the Endless Mountains

In the Endless Mountains of NEPA, the rolling hills and pristine streams aren’t just for adventure seekers— they’re also a place to find inspiration. The scenic views and the simplicity of country life create a haven for creativity, as you’ll discover at our small-town galleries and annual studio tours.

A large group of adults sit at craft tables during a candle making class at The Local Emporium Co. in Tunkhannock, PA. — Candle making class at the Local Emporium Co. Photo courtesy of The Local Emporium Co.

However, you don’t have to consider yourself an “artist” to create something beautiful. Several local businesses and arts organizations offer classes where you can try out a new skill (and take home a beautiful, handmade project too). Take a moment to slow down and tap into your creative side at these spots.

Wyoming County Cultural Center at the Dietrich Theater

An exterior view of the sidewalk and marquis outside The Dietrich theater in Tunkhannock, PA. — The Dietrich Theater in Downtown Tunkhannock. Photo courtesy of Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau.

A hub for the arts

The Dietrich Theater in Tunkhannock is more than a movie theater; this non-profit organization also serves as the Wyoming County Cultural Center. When you go to see the latest blockbuster or attend one of their four film festivals, you’re actually supporting their mission to provide cultural programming to the community.

Exterior view of the storefront window at the Dorothy G. Sheldon Art Studio connected to The Dietrich Theater in Tunkhannock, PA. — Studio at the Dietrich Theater. Photo courtesy of Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau.

Every season features a robust lineup of classes, including arts workshops for all ages. Pre-school programs introduce little artists to new mediums like drawing, painting, sculpting, and more, while older kids and teens can join the fun with after-school programs and summer camps. They also have art classes for adults with themes like pottery and jewelry making. Many of the Dietrich’s programs are free or low-cost, making the arts accessible to all.

Eagles Mere Friends of the Arts

Exterior view of the David A. DeWire Center in Eagles Mere, PA. — The David A. DeWire Center, home of the Eagles Mere Friends of the Arts. Photo courtesy of Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau.

Explore your artistic side

Every summer, the charming village of Eagles Mere comes to life with professional concerts, live theatre, art classes, and more. It’s all thanks to the Eagles Mere Friends of the Arts (EMFA), a nonprofit organization that is celebrating their fiftieth anniversary this year.

A woman creates artwork using a sewing machine at the David A. DeWire Center in Eagles Mere, PA. — Arts class with Eagles Mere Friends of the Arts. Photo courtesy of Adelaide Ferguson.

EMFA added art classes for adults just a few years ago, but they’ve already become a popular summer staple. Students can get hands-on experience in a variety of mediums, from painting and drawing to photography and fiber arts, just to name a few. The classes range from one-day sessions to multi-day series.

A view of the artistic mosaic tiled pillars at the entrance of the David A. DeWire Center in Eagles Mere, PA. — The David A. DeWire Center, home of the Eagles Mere Friends of the Arts. Community members created the mosaics on the pillars. Photo courtesy of Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau.

EMFA also strives to support the local creator economy by hiring local instructors. Last year, all the classes were taught by artists from Sullivan County or the nearby Williamsport area. Overall, the classes provide a rewarding, hands-on experience for all artists, from the beginner student taking their first class to the expert instructors sharing their skills.

The Local Emporium Co.

Get crafty

The Local Emporium Co. in Tunkhannock is a haven for handmade goods. Everything in their shop is made by regional artisans, like handcrafted accessories, original artwork, creative décor, and more.

All the locally made gifts might inspire you to get crafty yourself! The Local Emporium hosts a variety of workshops every month, such as jewelry making, decorative painting, and so much more. The shop also has a station to create your own soy wax candle, where visitors can pick their favorite scents and pour their own creation.

Finished handmade candles in mason jars from a candle making class at the Local Emporium in Tunkhannock, PA. — Handmade candles at The Local Emporium Co. Photo courtesy of The Local Emporium Co.

Some classes are held at the shop, while others are at fun venues like wineries and restaurants. Check their Facebook page for the latest schedule.

Meckley Brooms

Step back in time

Located just a few miles from Ricketts Glen State Park, Meckley Brooms is a family-run shop tucked away on the quiet country roads of Lopez. Inside, you’ll discover a long legacy of broom making—in fact, the Meckleys have been creating handcrafted corn brooms for six generations and still use equipment dating back to the 1800s.

The uniquely decorated shop and class space at Meckley Brooms in Lopez, PA. — Shop and class space at Meckley Brooms. Photo courtesy of Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau.

To learn about broom making firsthand, join one of their “Make and Take” classes. Guests can learn how to create their own whisk brooms, witchy brooms, or kitchen tools (such as cake testers and pot scrubbers). Appointments aren’t required, but it’s always good to call ahead. Group classes can be booked in advance.

Creekside Gardens

A little artsy shopping

Wander through the grounds at Creekside Gardens in Tunkhannock, and you’re sure to find inspiration. This stunning garden center and gift shop offers something new to discover in every season. Throughout the year, they host pop-up events and painting workshops that are fun for all ages. Keep an eye on their website and social media for the latest updates.

Find More Events in the Endless Mountains

A young girl poses with her sculpting tools and a few of her creations during a Preschool Pottery Class at the Dietrich Theater in Tunkhannock, PA. — Preschool Pottery at the Dietrich Theater. Photo courtesy of Dietrich Theater.

Visit the Endless Mountains

Discover local classes—and so much more— in the Endless Mountains region of NEPA. With warmer weather on the way, our events calendar is filling up with fairs and festivals for the whole family. You’ll find 600+ upcoming events in the beautiful NEPA countryside.

Featured image (top): Mural painting at the Dietrich’s River Day. Photo courtesy of Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau.

Article updated from its original version published on 4/11/24.

Jill Robinson

Writer

Jill Robinson is the deputy director of the Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, which serves Sullivan and Wyoming counties. A lifelong resident of the area, she enjoys spending time outside and exploring the region’s stunning parks and trails.