Upcoming events.
SAND-Sational Seashells
Welcome to SAND-sational Seashells!
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop and Educational Center for a fun-filled event celebrating all things seashells. We will have a special small seashell bucket available starting that day! Discover the world of seashells as you explore different types and sizes. From delicate conch shells to intricate sand dollars, you'll have the chance to marvel at nature's creations up close. We'll discuss how the shells form, who may have once inhabited them, and more!
For those that buy tickets on Eventbrite: you will get a $6 coupon for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. You must check in on the day of the event at the store in person to receive the coupon.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Firework Frenzy!
Firework Frenzy!
Come learn all about fireworks with GTC Rock Shop and Science Educational Center! We will cover the history, the science, and even a visual to show how different minerals can be responsible for some beloved colors in firework shows! Spark your interest in fireworks just in time for the firework displays for Fourth of July!
2 Ticket options available on Eventbrite; with a craft and without a craft. Cost for program with a craft is $8 and covers materials for a firework salt painting and a $6 coupon for use in store on the day of the program ONLY (must be present to redeem). Cost for program without the craft is $5 and you will get a $6 coupon for use in store on the day of the program ONLY (must be present to redeem). You must check in on the day of the event at the store in person to receive the coupon.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Sun Safety and UV Crafts
Sun Safety - UV Crafts
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop and Educational Center for a fun and educational event all about staying safe in the sun! Learn about the importance of sun protection and how to have fun in the sun while keeping your skin safe. Get creative with UV crafts that will not only be a blast to make but will also remind you to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Don't miss out on this hands-on experience that will leave you glowing with knowledge about sun safety!
(PENDING)Leave No Trace
Welcome to Leave No Trace!
Come join us at the GTC Rock Shop and Educational Center for an event focused on preserving our beautiful outdoors! Enjoying the great outdoors is a year-round activity! It’s important that we take care of our recreational areas to minimize the impact on their environment, allowing others to enjoy them. The 7 Principles of Leave No Trace will help us achieve these goals. Please join us in learning these Leave No Trace principles and take part in some short activities to help remember them.
2 Ticket options available: with craft and without craft. Cost for ticket with craft covers a craft and a coupon for $6 for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. For those that buy tickets without craft you will get a $6 coupon for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. You must check in on the day of the event at the store in person to receive the coupon.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
(PENDING) Sensational Sharks- Shark Week Talk
Sensational Sharks- Shark Week Talk
Come join us for an exciting Sensational Sharks at GTC Rock Shop and Educational Center! Dive into the world of sharks with our knowledgeable speakers as they share fascinating facts and stories about these incredible creatures. Whether you're a shark enthusiast or just curious to learn more, this event is perfect for all ages. Don't miss out on this fin-tastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and appreciation for sharks!
2 Ticket options available: with craft and without craft. Cost for ticket with craft covers a faux shark tooth necklace and a coupon for $6 for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. For those that buy tickets without craft you will get a $6 coupon for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. You must check in on the day of the event at the store in person to receive the coupon.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
(PENDING)Just Jellies
Come join us at the GTC Rock Shop and Educational Center for a bubbly event all about jellies! Get ready to learn about what a jelly is, why they're called jellies - not jellyfish, some special species and more! Then get hands-on with a jelly craft to take home with you!
2 ticket options available: with craft and without craft. Cost for ticket with craft covers a craft and a coupon for $6 for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. For those that buy tickets without craft, you will get a $6 coupon for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. You must check in on the day of the event at the store in person to receive the coupon.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Frederick County Public Library Minecraft Movie/ GTC Touch Table
GTC Rock Shop and Science Educational Center will be in the Fat Oxen House before the start of the Minecraft Movie. We will have a touch table of minerals and rocks from the game for you to enjoy and ask questions about.
It's SUN-sational!
(PENDING)It's SUNsational!
Get ready for a bright and fun-filled day at The GTC Rock Shop and Science Educational Center. This in-person event is all about the science of the Sun, Earth's closest star. We will discuss parts of the sun, solar flares, the Northern Lights and so much more! See you there!
2 Ticket options available: with craft and without craft. Cost for ticket with craft covers a bracelet with UV beads and a coupon for $6 for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. For those that buy tickets without craft you will get a $6 coupon for use in the store on the day of the event ONLY. You must check in on the day of the event at the store in person to receive the coupon.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Rock Painting/ Paperweight- Father’s Day Craft
Father's Day Rock Painting
Get ready to celebrate Dad in a super fun way! Join us at the GTC Rock Shop and Science Educational Center in person for some creative rock painting/paperweight. Whether you're a pro or just want to try something new, this event is perfect to make a unique gift or keepsake for Father’s Day. Bring your imagination, and let's make some colorful memories together!
The cost is $5 per rock to be painted and decorated. Purchase Tickets on Eventbrite. This covers the cost of the rock and use of a variety or paint pens. We will have some printed tutorials on easy designs/ ideas available to get inspiration from.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Backyard Bugs
Backyard Bugs
Come join us at the GTC Rock Shop for a buzzing event all about local bugs and insects! Learn about some local bugs you may find outside and their important roles in the ecosystem! Decorate your very own bug jar that you can use to take a closer look at some of our six-legged friends! Cost is $8 per bug jar for decorating.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Space Rocks
Space Rocks! - an out-of-this-world lecture where you can explore the wonders of the universe up close! Join us at the GTC Rock Shop to learn all about meteorites, moon rocks, and more! You might even get a chance to handle some yourself!
There is a $5 fee for this event. Buying a ticket in advance on Eventbrite will get you admission to the talk/event as well as a $6 coupon to use in store (valid only the day of the event). You must be present in the store and check in at the front counter on the day of the event to receive a coupon.
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Mother's Day - Rockin' Picture Frames
Welcome to the Mother's Day - Rockin' Picture Frames event at GTC Rock Shop! Join us for crafting personalized picture frames for your mom. Show your appreciation by creating a unique gift that rocks! Bring your creativity and let's make some memorable keepsakes together. This is an in-person event, so come ready to get crafty and have a great time. Feel free to arrive anytime between 4pm and 5pm to join in on the fun! Cost is $10 per frame made.
Supplied will be:
Picture frame
Paint Markers
Selection of stones
If we do not have sufficient interest 7 days before the event, we will reschedule it and refund any tickets purchased.
Meet Your Local Trees
Arbor Day and Earth Day Celebration! Let's talk about Trees
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a fun and informative event all about trees! Whether you're a tree enthusiast or just curious about nature, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more about these amazing plants. Learn about how to be able to identify some local native trees by their leaves.
Don't miss out on this exciting event celebrating the beauty and importance of trees in our world.For those that buy tickets on Eventbrite you will get a $6 coupon for the store when you check in and have a chance at a door prize! See you there!
POSTPONED Rocks at the RAK- Rockin’ Raptors
UPDATE POSTPONED
Get Ready for Rocks at the RAK - Rockin' Raptors!
Join GTC Rock Shop staff for one of our engaging and educational Science Sessions. Get ready to rock with some of the most awesome dinosaurs: raptors! Learn some background info about dinos, and jump right into raptors, including species, misconceptions, and even take a look at some models, replicas, and real fossils. All this while enjoying the drinks RAK Brewing Company has to offer. We can't wait to see you there!
Spectacular Snowflakes
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a magical event celebrating the beauty of snowflakes. Get ready to be amazed by intricate snowflake designs and learn all about these unique creations of nature. Learn about how we came to know all the things we do about snowflakes and about how unique each one can be! Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience!
Marvelous Marine Reptiles At RAK Brewing Company
Come join us at RAK Brewing Company (https://www.rakbrewing.com/) to hear all about prehistoric marine reptiles! Learn all about these creatures that lived alongside the dinosaurs including Mosasaurus, Elasmosaurus, and Dr. Jess’s specialty - Ichthyosaur! After the talk, check out some of our marine reptile fossils and Dr. Jess’s memorabilia!
DIY Crystal Ornaments
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a fun and creative event where you can make your very own crystal ornament! Get ready to unleash your inner artist and design a unique piece to adorn your home or give as a special gift. Cost includes an empty ornament, moss, hot glue, and crystal points! You are more than welcome to shop the store for additional items like soapstone animals for your crystal-ific ornament!
DIY Crystal Ornaments
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a fun and creative event where you can make your very own crystal ornament! Get ready to unleash your inner artist and design a unique piece to adorn your home or give as a special gift. Cost includes an empty ornament, moss, hot glue, and crystal points! You are more than welcome to shop the store for additional items like soapstone animals for your crystal-ific ornament!
GTC Rock Shop Dino Day
GTC Rock Shop is celebrating Dino-vember in a fun day full of talks and activities. Come learn something new about dinosaurs, meet with our own paleontologist Dr. Jess or come meet a paleontologist from UMD, Dr. Tom Holtz! We will have dig panels for kids to practice being a paleontologist and our flume (12-5pm) and geode cracking will be open.There will be something for people of all ages and paleontological interests. It is sure to be a day full of Dino-tastic fun!
To get reserved seating for Dr. Tom Holtz’s talks please visit our Eventbrite pages:
What is a Dinosaur Anyway?
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1934592762029?aff=oddtdtcreator
Maryland in the time of Dinosaurs
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1934816902439?aff=oddtdtcreator
Spooky Slime (Copy)
Get ready for a slimy adventure at Slime Time - The Science Behind Slime event! Join us at the GTC Rock Shop for a hands-on slime fun! Join us to learn about slime and see polymers in action by making your own! Discover the secrets behind the gooey, stretchy substance and take your own DIY slime home with you! SPOOKY EDITION
Spooky Slime
Get ready for a slimy adventure at Slime Time - The Science Behind Slime event! Join us at the GTC Rock Shop for a hands-on slime fun! Join us to learn about slime and see polymers in action by making your own! Discover the secrets behind the gooey, stretchy substance and take your own DIY slime home with you! SPOOKY EDITION
Volatile Volcanoes
Get ready to experience the explosive power of nature at Volatile Volcanoes - an event filled with fiery excitement and thrilling eruptions!
Petrified Wood
Welcome to the Petrified Wood event at GTC Rock Shop! Join us for a fascinating journey into the world of ancient trees turned to stone. Discover the beauty and history of petrified wood and the beautify varieties that can form. Learn about the process of petrification and the unique characteristics of these natural wonders. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the wonders of petrified wood up close and personal. See you there!
Introduction to Fossils
Welcome to Introduction to Fossils!
Join us at GTC Rock Shop for an interactive experience about ancient life. Discover the secrets of the past as we delve into the world of fossils. Learn about different types of fossils, how they form, and what they can tell us about Earth's history. This in-person event is perfect for curious minds of all ages. Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the mysteries of the past!
Of Quartz It Is!
Get ready for a rockin' experience at "Of Quartz is is!" where you'll dive into the fascinating world of Quartz!
Local Trees and You
Let's talk about Trees
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a fun and informative event all about trees! Whether you're a tree enthusiast or just curious about nature, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more about these amazing plants.
Don't miss out on this exciting event celebrating the beauty and importance of trees in our world. See you there!
Sun Safety and UV Crafts
Sun Safety - UV Crafts
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a fun and educational event all about staying safe in the sun! Learn about the importance of sun protection and how to have fun in the sun while keeping your skin safe. Get creative with UV crafts that will not only be a blast to make but will also remind you to protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Don't miss out on this hands-on experience that will leave you glowing with knowledge about sun safety!
Look at That Flash!
Look at that Flash!
Join us for one of our engaging and educational Saturday Science Sessions! Each session is around 15-20 minutes, and totally free! Come learn about the different optical effects seen in different minerals, and even fossils! Take a look at hand-picked specimens and see the flashes for yourself! Mark your calendars and come experience the Look at that Flash! event at the GTC Rock Shop - it'll be a truly illuminating experience!
Backyard Bugs
Backyard Bugs
Come join us at the GTC Rock Shop for a buzzing event all about local bugs and insects! Learn about some local bugs you may find outside and their important roles in the ecosystem! Decorate your very own bug jar that you can use to take a closer look at some of our six-legged friends!
Shark Week Talk
Shark Week Talk
Come join us for an exciting Shark Week Talk at GTC Rock Shop! Dive into the world of sharks with our knowledgeable speakers as they share fascinating facts and stories about these incredible creatures. Whether you're a shark enthusiast or just curious to learn more, this event is perfect for all ages. Don't miss out on this fin-tastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and appreciation for sharks!
Shark Week Talk
Shark Week Talk
Come join us for an exciting Shark Week Talk at GTC Rock Shop! Dive into the world of sharks with our knowledgeable speakers as they share fascinating facts and stories about these incredible creatures. Whether you're a shark enthusiast or just curious to learn more, this event is perfect for all ages. Don't miss out on this fin-tastic opportunity to expand your knowledge and appreciation for sharks!
Firework Frenzy
Come learn all about fireworks with GTC Rock Shop! We will cover the history, the science, and even a visual to show how different minerals can be responsible for some beloved colors in firework shows! Spark your interest in fireworks just in time for the firework displays for Fourth of July!
SAND-Sational Seashells
Welcome to SAND-sational Seashells!
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a fun-filled event celebrating all things seashells!
Discover the world of seashells as you explore different types and sizes. From delicate conch shells to intricate sand dollars, you'll have the chance to marvel at nature's creations up close. We'll discuss how the shells form, who may have once inhabited them, and more!
Father's Day- Rockin' Picture Frames
Welcome to the Father's Day - Rockin' Picture Frames event at GTC Rock Shop! Join us for crafting personalized picture frames for your dad. Show your appreciation by creating a unique gift that rocks! Bring your creativity and let's make some memorable keepsakes together. This is an in-person event, so come ready to get crafty and have a great time. Feel free to arrive anytime between 1pm and 3pm to join in on the fun! Cost is $10 per frame made.
Father's Day- Rockin' Picture Frames
Welcome to the Father's Day - Rockin' Picture Frames event at GTC Rock Shop! Join us for crafting personalized picture frames for your dad. Show your appreciation by creating a unique gift that rocks! Bring your creativity and let's make some memorable keepsakes together. This is an in-person event, so come ready to get crafty and have a great time. Feel free to arrive anytime between 1pm and 3pm to join in on the fun! Cost is $10 per frame made.
SAND-Sational Seashells
Welcome to SAND-sational Seashells!
Come join us at GTC Rock Shop for a fun-filled event celebrating all things seashells!
Discover the world of seashells as you explore different types and sizes. From delicate conch shells to intricate sand dollars, you'll have the chance to marvel at nature's creations up close. We'll discuss how the shells form, who may have once inhabited them, and more!