Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean your brain has to take a vacation. At these classes you can learn something new without having to worry about midterms or scary cafeteria food.
Wine about it
Don’t know the difference between a Bordeaux and a Burgundy? Then sign up for Wine University and learn about grape varietals and wine regions during this class that also includes a three-course dinner. You’ll do a blind tasting at the end of the class; identify the “mystery” wines and win a complimentary bottle. $50. Reservations required. 7-10 p.m., June 26. Other classes also available throughout the summer. Mas, 1670 W. Division St. 773-276-8700.
Go blow
You won’t end up making anything resembling the art of Dale Chihuly during this beginning glass-blowing class, but you will take home some cool knickknacks you made yourself. $300. Registration required. 1-6 p.m., Sat. and Sun. Chicago Hot Glass, 1250 N. Central Park Ave. 773-394-3252.
Shaken and stirred
You’ve always thought those shakers were cool but never got around to learning how to make the perfect martini. Become a mix master and, yes, taste the samples along with some appetizers during the Home and Happiness Martini Madness class. $55-$65. 7 p.m., June 24. Mystic Celt, 3443 N. Southport Ave. 773-477-5993.
Sprechen sie Deutsch?
One of the drawbacks of learning a new language is that it can require a huge time commitment. But the Goethe Institut’s beginning German class only lasts four weeks. Even if you don’t make it to Europe this summer, think of how much fun you can have at Oktoberfest. $240. Registration required. Classes meet four days a week beginning July 7. 1500 N. Michigan Ave. 312-263-0474.
So you wanna be a rock ‘n’ roll star?
The Old Town School of Folk Music has lots of options for the musically inclined. At the Super Sounds of the ’70s Six-String Social, you’ll learn to harmonize just like Simon and Garfunkel. If you have a little experience playing guitar, bring it along to learn new songs and techniques. $5-$10. 6 p.m. Friday.
If you want to put your own words to music, Ralph Covert of the Bad Examples teaches a songwriting class. $125. 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays beginning June 24, for eight weeks.
You say you’d rather be like George Harrison? Then take the eight-week ukulele class. $125. 6:30 p.m. Mondays, beginning next week, for eight weeks. 4544 N. Lincoln Ave. 773-728-6000.
Don’t be up the creek
Learn basic safety, rescue and paddling techniques in Intro to Kayaking, taught by an American Canoe Association certified instructor. Registration required. $30. Numerous one-day classes taught 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and 3-7 p.m. on a variety of dates from Saturday through Aug. 31. Montrose Park on the Lakefront, 4400 N. Lake Shore Drive. 630-336-7245.
Think you’re funny?
If you’re cracking them up at work every day, enroll in Stand-Up Comedy 101. Comedian Jim Rauth teaches students to write and present material to a live audience during a seven-week course. Your “graduation” is a performance for friends and family. $200. Registration required. 8-9:30 p.m., Wednesdays, June 25-Aug. 6. The Comedy College, 2951 N. Greenview Ave. 773-250-7979.
Gotta dance?
Learn the art of Capoeira Angola, a dancelike, rhythmic sparring technique with roots in African and Brazilian culture. Think “The Matrix” meets Michael Jackson’s “Bad” video. $10-$12 per class; 7 p.m. Mon., Tues. and Thurs.; 11 a.m. Sat. Quilombo Cultural Center, 1757 N. Kimball Ave. 773-227-8879.
You can also pick up some dance moves for free at the Chicago SummerDance Festival. 4-7 p.m., Sun.; 6-9:30 p.m., Thurs.; 6-9:30 p.m., Fri.; 6-9:30 p.m., Sat.; starting Thurs.-Aug. 31. Grant Park Spirit of Music Garden, 601 S. Michigan Ave. 312-742-4007.
