YOUTH WORKSHOPS
TWIN CITIES & ST. CLOUD
QUEERSPACE hangouts; Youth Workshops help youth build skills through art, STEM, and leadership with a focus on mentorship, identity, and community. Through partnerships with local organizations, artists, centers, and groups, we are thrilled to provide even more opportunities for expression for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth between ages 13-17.
See below for current opportunities!
CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES
Queer Storytelling & Performance
An electrifying journey of self-expression and connection, led by the fabulous Vanessa (she/they). This 6-week program is currently diving into diverse storytelling techniques while exploring and celebrating queer identities through collaboration and performance with fellow youth.
ST. CLOUD
Filmmaking for Queer Stories
Teaching artist and filmmaker Pam Colby taught participants the filmmaking techniques to spin an interesting idea into a compelling visual narrative by creating and controlling the movie's look, sound, and pace.
​
TWIN CITIES
Art with Harper
Artist - and QUEERSPACE collective Mentor - Harper Steinbach led participants through the exploration of different art mediums. As an open studio model, Queer youth could affirm themselves in their identity and build community in a low-pressure way.
​
TWIN CITIES & ST. CLOUD
Rollin' with Pride
Our team laced up their bowling shoes for a weekly Queer Bowling Extravaganza at Bryant Lake Bowl! From Feb-March 2024, our incredible instructor Ray Rohena Perez, former member of the PR National Bowling Team, coached our athletes and introduced them to the love of the game. Truly a STRIKE!
​
TWIN CITIES
Musical Theater Summer Camp
Calling all fishies, stingrays, sharks, and anemones! Dive into adventure for an unforgettable weeklong summer camp where you'll star in our exciting production of Finding Nemo! Whether you dream of performing on stage or showcasing your skills behind the curtain, all youth will receive a role. A cast t-shirt will be provided to all participants.
ST. CLOUD
Art Studio Exploration
NOVEMBER 6 - DECEMBER 11
WEDNESDAYS, 6-8PM
​
Art Studio Exploration is an open studio class where participants can explore mediums and get to know other queer teens around the St.Cloud area. Join us for five weeks as we explore collage, painting, embroidery, sculpture, and mixed media! Each week is a new project, so come prepared to explore many mediums throughout the night. All supplies, snacks/beverages, and a t-shirt will be provided to all participants.
ST. CLOUD
DJ with Shannon Blowtorch
NOVEMBER 6 - DECEMBER 11
WEDNESDAYS, 6-8PM
​
Shannon Blowtorch is a local legend with almost 30 years of experience in live music. Join her as she teaches you the craft and business of DJing! You will learn how to read a crowd and cultivate a unique vibe with your choice of songs. We'll end the workshop with a community dance party! All materials and equipment will be provided. Please be aware that this will be a high stimulation environment! We will have a small break space if things get too loud but encourage being aware of sensory needs in the space
TWIN CITIES
TWIN CITIES
ZINE and be seen!
THURSDAYS, JANUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 13
6-8PM
MINNESOTA CENTER FOR BOOK ARTS, MINNEAPOLIS
​
Create, design, and print your own zine, complete with a screen-printed, collaboratively designed cover! This engaging, in-person workshop introduces participants to multiple book arts techniques while creating two projects that celebrate community and creative expression. Join artist Bethany Rahn at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts studios to bring your ideas to life!
ST. CLOUD
Dungeons & Dragons Workshop
TUESDAYS, APRIL 22 - MAY 20
6:00PM - 8:00PM
SARTELL COMMUNITY CENTER
850 19th Street S, Sartell, MN 56377
*Free for all 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 12-17 to participate
​
Youth in Central Minnesota, we welcome you to join us for a five-week Dungeons & Dragons adventure exploring new worlds, clashing with dark monsters, and performing heroic feats. Both new and experienced players are welcome to join. All supplies, snacks, and a T-shirt will be provided to all participants. Please register by Friday, April 18th by clicking the link above.
TWIN CITIES
'I Spy...Something Green!' Environmental Science Workshop
FRIDAY, AUGUST 15, 2025
12:00PM - 4:00PM
Katharine Ordway Field Station
79550 Inver Grove Trail, Inver Grove Heights, MN 55076
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 12-17 to participate.​
​​
Take a day to learn about Minnesota's diverse ecosystems with scientist Jean Pengra! This one-day popup workshop will give you a crash course in prairie, woodland, and wetland systems through short hikes and group activities. We will focus specifically on ecosystem functions, identifying plants, and navigating academia and STEM fields as a Queer person.​
*Note: Bring your own lunch! Attendees should wear good quality shoes, long sleeves/pants, and long socks for outdoor protection. A baseball cap or brimmed hat is recommended. Light snacks and sunscreen/bug spray will be provided. In the event of bad weather, the rain date will be Monday, August 18 at the same time and location.
TWIN CITIES
Curtain Call Workshop
with Theater Mu
FRIDAY, JULY 11, 2025
7:00PM - 8:45PM
THE JUNGLE THEATER
2951 Lyndale Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55408
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2025
1:00PM - 3:00PM
QUEERSPACE Youth Center
720 Franklin Ave W, Minneapolis, MN 55403​
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 12-17 to participate.
Theater enthusiasts, this one's for you! Queer teens are invited to our "Curtain Call" youth workshop with Theater Mu where you'll get to enjoy opening night of their newest production, Amm(i)gone, and attend an engaging talk back the following week!
​
Amm(I)gone is a one-person exploration of the intersections between Queerness, faith, Islamic tradition, and generational memory. *Content warnings: This production includes references to death of family members, divorce, and brief references to Islamophobia, homophobia, and racism. This production also includes brief instances of general profanity.​
ST. CLOUD
Korppi Coffee + Bakeshop:
The Skills Behind the Craft
THURSDAYS, JULY 31 & AUGUST 7, 2025
5:30PM - 8:35PM
KORPPI COFFEE + BAKESHOP
71 County Rd 120, Suite 400, St Cloud, MN 56303
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 12-17 in the St. Cloud/Central MN area to participate. Please register by Monday, July 28.
Join QUEERSPACE collective and Korppi Coffee for a two-week workshop learning, creating, and enjoying the barista lifestyle! Participants will get the opportunity to make beautiful cupcakes by learning basic piping techniques and creating flowers and succulents. In addition, participants will learn essential barista skills and even get the chance to try their hand at pouring latte art! All supplies and a t-shirt will be provided to all participants.
ST. CLOUD
'Wontons, Witchery, & Whimsy' with Arroy
SUNDAYS, NOVEMBER 2-16, 2025
6:00PM - 8:00PM
Arroy Thai & Filipino Restaurant
800 W Saint Germain St., St. Cloud, MN 56301
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 in the St. Cloud/Central MN area to participate.
Join us for this workshop series at Arroy Thai & Filipino Restaurant that blends food, magic, and performance! Participants will dive into hands-on experiences — from crafting delicious cream cheese wontons to creating personalized spell jars infused with energy, and learning stage makeup, presence, and theatrical flair! This immersive, creative series celebrates expression, artistry, and community.
TWIN CITIES
'Get your hands dirty' with
Mudluk Pottery
THURSDAYS, NOVEMBER 13 - DECEMER 11, 2025
6:00PM - 7:30PM
Mudluk Pottery
2951 Bloomington Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55407
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 to participate.​
​
​​Are you looking for a welcoming, supportive space to explore clay with a group of other Queer kids? Mudluk Pottery and QUEERSPACE collective are partnering to offer a 4-week introduction to clay arts!
Join us to learn foundational, hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques. Students will make functional and expressive ceramic objects while reflecting their personal identity and joy through clay. All students will go home with glaze fired pieces at the conclusion of our time together! All clay, glaze, firings and tools included. All levels welcome - No experience necessary!
ST. CLOUD
Copper Pony:
Pizza & Plants
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025
6:00PM - 8:30PM
Copper Pony
208 N Benton Drive, Sauk Rapids, MN 56379
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 in the St. Cloud/Central MN area to participate. Please register by September 21.
Join us for an evening of hands-on fun at Copper Pony! Participants will have the opportunity to make their own pizza (dough provided, toppings ready, creativity required!) and build their own potted succulent (choose your plant and pot at the succulent bar). All supplies and a t-shirt will be provided to participants.
ST. CLOUD
Dungeons & Dragons
TUESDAYS, MARCH 17 - APRIL 14, 2026
6:00PM - 8:00PM
Sartell Community Center
850 19th Street S, Sartell, MN 56377
*Free and open to all 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 in the Central MN region to participate.
Join us for a six-week D&D adventure exploring new worlds, clashing with dark monsters, and performing heroic feats! Both new and experienced players are welcome to join. All supplies, snacks, and a T-shirt will be provided to participants.
TWIN CITIES
Intro to the Mystic Arts
with Moonstone MPLS
THURSDAYS, FEBRUARY 26 - MARCH 26, 2026
6:00PM - 8:00PM
Moonstone MPLS
3304 E Lake St, Minneapolis, MN 55406
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 to participate.
We're excited to partner with Moonstone MPLS to introduce a variety of intuitive and ritual practices for self-care, reflection, and wellness! In this 5-week workshop, you will:
-
Explore tarot and astrology for self understanding
-
Learn to use tools like pendulums to connect with intuition
-
Learn strategies for using stones for mindfulness and intention setting
-
Craft rituals or altars to reflect your values
-
Learn how to call on the energies that strengthen us and our communities
TWIN CITIES
Crochet with QUEERSPACE
THURSDAYS, JANUARY 8-29, 2026
5:00PM - 7:00PM
QUEERSPACE Youth Center
702 W Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
*Free for any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 to participate.
QUEERSPACE collective is excited to offer a 4-week crocheting workshop at the QS Youth Center! Join us to learn the crochet skills needed to co-create a quilt and a piece of apparel of your choice (shirt, tote bag, etc). All materials are included, and it's free to participate. Dinner will also be provided at every workshop. All levels welcome - no prior experience is necessary. Sign up today!
TWIN CITIES
Intro to Theater Storytelling with Theater Mu
THURSDAYS, APRIL 9 - 30, 2026
5:00PM - 7:00PM
QUEERSPACE Youth Center
702 W Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403
​
Get ready for our next youth center workshop starring Theater Mu! On Thursdays in April, we'll be hosting a weekly workshops introducing theater games, storytelling, and finding pride in identity. Participants will build theatrical skills and practices to co-write stories about what it means to be 2SLGBTQIA+.
​
Theater Mu is a St. Paul based theater company that celebrates and empowers Asian Americans by producing performances born of arts, equity and justice.
​
*Note: This will take place during our regular 3PM-7PM drop-in hours for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17. Registration is encouraged but not required.
TWIN CITIES
Bird Watching with
Urban Bird Collective
TUESDAYS, MAY 5 - 26, 2026
6:00PM - 8:00PM
Old Cedar Ave Bridge Trailhead
9551 Old Cedar Ave S, Bloomington, MN 55425
​
Being in outdoor spaces with community is important for the soul! Urban Bird Collective's LGBTQIA+ leaders are thrilled to co-host our next youth workshop at Old Cedar Bridge Trail! Join us to learn bird identification through sight, sound, and habitats in a supportive learning environment. Participants will learn how to use binoculars, spotting scopes, and there will also be opportunities to provide some tips for outdoor nature photography.
The Old Cedar Ave Bridge trail area provides many habitats, various walking paths and the possibility of seeing over 60 species of birds.
Urban Bird Collective is an organization that creates welcoming and inclusive spaces that centers BIPOC and the LGBTQIA+ communities in order to realize and reap the benefits of being out in the natural environment while building bird watching skills. In order to do this work, we are active stewards of the environment who protect habitats for not only birds, but for all living things.
ST. CLOUD
Disney's High School Musical Jr. Summer Camp
MONDAY–FRIDAY, AUGUST 10–14, 2026
9:00AM – 3:00PM (Performance at 3:00PM on Friday)
Helgeson Learning Lab
710 Sundial Dr, Waite Park, MN 56387
​
​
Join QUEERSPACE collective and GREAT Theatre for a week-long theatre experience where the energy is high, the environment is welcoming, and every young person gets a chance to shine!
Step into the halls of East High as we bring Disney’s High School Musical Jr. to life. This camp is a joyful space for young performers to build confidence, make new friends, and experience the power of a supportive creative community.​​​
TWIN CITIES
A Taste of France with
Cooks of Crocus Hill
MONDAY–WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 17–19, 2026
12:00PM – 2:30PM
Cooks of Crocus Hill North Loop Culinary School
210 North First Street, Minneapolis MN 55401
​
​
Do you wish you could take a trip to France this summer? Come do the next best thing! Join Cooks of Crocus Hill and QUEERSPACE collective for a free 3 day intensive cooking class!
Participants will learn how to navigate the kitchen and build a strong foundation of knife skills, dough making, and french pastry! Together, we'll go on a culinary tour of France and learn classic recipes such as Creme Brulée, French Onion Soup, Macarons, Pasta, and Gnocchi! No experience necessary, all tools and ingredients provided!​​
TWIN CITIES
Art Exploration with
Alexis Politz
SEPTEMBER 10, 17, 24 & OCTOBER 1, 3, 8
5:00PM – 7:00PM (OCTOBER 3, 1:00PM – 3:00PM)
QS Youth Center
702 W Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55403​
​
Get ready for our next youth center workshop! We're excited to host an art fundamentals workshop for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 with local artist and designer, Alexis Politz!
​
Whether you're new or seasoned, all are welcome to learn and hone their skills in drawing, painting, and printmaking. The workshop will culminate in a gallery at our National Coming Out Day event for youth to display their final artwork.
​
*Note: This is free and open to any 2SLGBTQIA+ youth ages 13-17 in the Twin Cities to participate .
​
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.