Packed July Calendar Brings Art, Dance, Magic, and More to Samuels Public Library

If you think the library quiets down in the summer, think again. The Samuels Public Library team is rolling into July with a calendar full of events for all ages, featuring everything from donuts and dancing to wildlife, fairy lanterns, and Indian dance lessons. In a recent visit to the Royal Examiner studio, “library ladies” Pat LoPredo and Rachel Roman previewed what’s in store, and it’s one of the busiest months they’ve had yet.

It all starts on July 1 with an Open House, featuring free coffee and Apple House donuts in the morning, a scavenger hunt, and the launch of the Tiny Art Exhibit. Visitors can also tour Studio 330, the library’s creative space, and enjoy other fun drop-in activities like puzzles.

The adult programs are also going strong. On July 10, Seniors First will offer a “Medicare 101” workshop, followed by one-on-one counseling sessions. Then, on July 18, the ATF will give a live demonstration with their canine detection dogs, a highlight for animal lovers and those curious about how these dogs assist with investigations.

Also for adults, the Front Royal Police Department will be hosting a special “What the Tech” session on avoiding scams, a topic that continues to grow in importance. Meanwhile, the Master Gardeners return for Walkabout Wednesdays to tend to the library’s plants and chat with visitors about gardening.

Over in Studio 330, it’s Christmas in July, complete with holiday-themed crafts and a Fairy Lantern Workshop toward the end of the month.

And for those ready to get moving, the library is stepping up its game, literally, with “Step It Up” line dancing sessions happening twice a month on the first and third Wednesdays. Held in the large meeting room, these classes are gaining popularity fast. “It’s a great activity for balance, fun, and fitness,” Roman noted.

For children and families, the summer excitement continues with a wide array of programs:

• On July 11, Toddler Trails heads to Eastern Park for a ladybug hunt. The same day, the Master Gardeners will lead a “painting with petals” activity, using natural dyes from flowers like saffron and coneflowers.
• July 12 brings an art and advocacy program hosted by The Arc, where kids will create collages using petals and leaves.
• On July 14, children can immerse themselves in culture with a dance workshop from India, led by performers visiting from Fairfax.
• Local author Arlie Jerome visits on July 16 and 17, with a themed Husky craft activity (though no actual huskies, sadly).
• July 19 features a show by Rockstar Magic, promising interactive illusions and one lucky audience member getting “levitated.”
• On July 22, Miss Arline from Explore Art & Clay returns for hands-on clay projects with both kids and teens.
• The fun continues outdoors on July 23, when families head to Shenandoah River State Park to build and float their own gundalows on the river.
• Wrapping up the month on July 31, the Wildlife Ambassadors from the Wildlife Center of Virginia will visit with rescued animals. While the lineup is a surprise, past visits have featured hawks, owls, falcons, turtles, opossums, and yes—even snakes.

And there’s still more: Mix It Up Tuesdays replace Science Scouts, offering themed activities like Ancient Rome parties, complete with mosaic-making and history-inspired crafts. There’s even an event called “Throw a Fit”, an activity where kids can literally make and throw “fits.”

Weekly staples such as Books and Beyond, the Scary Words horror book club, and String Theory, a drop-in fiber arts group that includes knitting, crocheting, and sewing, continue to offer regular opportunities for social connection and creative fun.

With so much happening, the Samuels Public Library team encourages residents to pick up a full event calendar and explore all the free opportunities available. “We’ve packed July with creativity, culture, and community,” said Lopredo. “There’s something here for everyone.”

Click here to view all the events happening at Samuels Public Library.