Educational & Experiential
Join classes at Vivalon to learn something new or experience something extraordinary—from travel opportunities to language classes and workshops that support your personal growth.
Educational & Experiential
Join classes at Vivalon to learn something new or experience something extraordinary—from travel opportunities to language classes and workshops that support your personal growth.
Our Offerings
Livingstreaming Travel Tours
Explore the world without leaving Marin! Vivalon has partnered with Wowzitude to offer virtual, interactive travel experiences designed for the culturally curious. No passport, no plane ticket, no luggage required—just your sense of adventure!
Join us at Vivalon’s Healthy Aging Campus for these exclusive tours, where expert guides lead live, walking explorations of iconic sites, events, and hidden gems from cities around the globe. Offered exclusively in Marin County, this one-of-a-kind experience lets you connect, learn, and “travel” the world—all from the comfort of your local community.
A Holiday Gift to You: December Tours are FREE!
Details coming soon!
Experience the magic of St. Nicholas Day with a live-stream holiday tour of Ljubjana, Slovenia! Stroll through the festive streets adorned with twinkling lights, vibrant decorations, and the warm glow of holiday cheer. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, you’ll hear enchanting tales of St. Nicholas, the beloved figure who brings joy to children and families and learn about the rich traditions that make this holiday so special in Slovenian culture. Explore the city’s seasonal markets filled with handcrafted treasures and aromatic treats, as the sound of carolers and the scent of mulled wine fill the air. This immersive tour captures the wonder of Ljubljana’s transformation into a winter wonderland, blending history, culture, and the joy of the holiday season. Perfect for embracing festive spirit from anywhere in the world!
Experience the festive charm of Berlin on a live-
stream journey through its enchanting Christmas
markets and twinkling streets! Marvel at dazzling lights, discover unique handcrafted treasures, and immerse yourself in the magic of Germany’s beloved holiday traditions. As we explore the vibrant Christmas markets, you’ll get a glimpse of the festive atmosphere, filled with holiday treats, warm beverages, and cheerful music. Berlin’s markets are not just for Christmas, but also celebrate a variety of winter traditions, including the colorful lights of Hanukkah, with menorahs and Jewish celebrations adding to the city’s joyful spirit. From the historical backdrop of the Brandenburg Gate to the bustling markets of the city center, experience the multicultural holiday offerings, all while soaking in the yuletide spirit of Berlin’s most beloved landmarks. Whether you’re wandering the festive streets or taking in the sights from the comfort of home, Berlin’s holiday magic will come alive right before your eyes!
Join us for a nighttime live-stream tour of Zadar, Croatia, and experience the city in a whole new light! As the evening falls, we’ll explore the charming holiday market illuminated by festive decorations and twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere that brings the city to life.
Stroll through the market and discover local crafts, handmade gifts, and seasonal delicacies, all while soaking in the cozy, holiday ambiance. As we delve into Zadar’s rich history, you’ll hear captivating stories about its ancient Roman and Venetian heritage, and discover how the city blends the old with the new. Let the glowing lights and festive cheer of Zadar illuminate your holiday season as we uncover the perfect blend of holiday magic and cultural discovery in this stunning coastal city.
Join our live-streamed virtual walking tour of the Vienna Christmas Markets. The Christmas markets in Vienna truly are an age-old tradition. The forerunners of the present-day events date back to the Middle Ages, when in 1296 Albrecht I granted Vienna’s citizens the privilege of holding a December Market or “Krippenmarkt.” Since then, the character and prevalence of these markets has changed considerably. Nowadays, over 20 official Advent markets sell a vast array of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats. While on the tour you’ll be able to see a fullscreen video of your guide and their surroundings – and interact with them and other travelers!
Admire the rich art and tradition of Assisi on this
virtual walking tour. During the Christmas season, Assisi comes alive with holiday spirit. The town puts on an extensive Nativity display, with lifesized figures and animals populating the streets and churches. One of the most popular is the live reenactment at the Convent of San Francesco, where Franciscan friars dress in period costumes.
The Basilica of San Francesco also holds an evening Christmas concert of ancient music. Don’t miss the Christmas markets in the main piazza, where you can browse local crafts, gifts, food, and wine. Experience the magic of an Italian Christmas in this historic Umbrian hill town.
Details coming soon!
Details coming soon!
Details coming soon!
Tours are offered as a monthly package. Each package includes the following:
- Live tours hosted at Vivalon every Tuesday. Thursday tours are offered at the Healthy Aging Campus in December only!
- Recording of Tuesday tours as well as additional tours on Thursdays that can be viewed at home at your convenience.
- Trip Kits for every tour that feature information on each destination.
Monthly Package Cost: FREE in December! (Regularly priced $10 for members, and $15 for non-members)
Registration required. Call 415-456-9062 to register.
An offering of Vivalon’s Cowles Active Learning Program.
Four-Week Storytelling Series
Weekly on Tuesdays, January 7-28, 2:30 – 5:30pm
Corey Rosen is back for another round of his hit storytelling series! Hone your storytelling skills by crafting diverse tales and employing strategic editing elements. At the end of this four-week series, showcase your refined narratives with family, friends, and peers at an engaging storytelling event.
Cost: $40 for members, $60 for non-members
Registration and payment are required.
Location: In-Person at Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus: 999 Third Street, San Rafael
Contact Christy Birch, [email protected], to register.
English as a Second Language
Weekly on Mondays, 9:00 – 10:15am
Intermediate ESL Class at Level 200.
Registration required.
Location: Remote only. Zoom information provided upon registration.
Contact Efrain Santamaria at 415-456-9062 x119 to register.
Financial Literacy Workshops
How to Thrive in Retirement: Lessons from Practice and Science
Wednesday | October 23 | 11:00am – 2:00pm
This interactive workshop will explore the non-financial challenges that adults often face when they retire. We’ll discuss The Three Pillars of Happiness – factors that research finds are strong predictors of retirement happiness – and how you can apply these in your life. The workshop will include real-life retirement case studies and a collaborative roundtable on retirement tips and practical wisdom.
Registration required. Call 415-456-9062 to register.
Location: In-Person at Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus: 999 Third Street, San Rafael
An offering of Vivalon’s Cowles Active Learning Program.
Preventing Financial Scams
Wednesday | October 25 | 2:00pm – 3:00pm
In today’s digital age, financial scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Join this engaging and interactive workshop led by Community Action Marin where you’ll learn to identify different types of scams, including online, phone, and in-person fraud. We’ll discuss common tactics used by scammers, red flags to watch for, and steps you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. By the end of the workshop, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to confidently spot a scam and know exactly what to do if you encounter one.
Registration required. Call 415-456-9062 to register.
Location: In-Person at Vivalon Healthy Aging Campus: 999 Third Street, San Rafael
An offering of Vivalon’s Cowles Active Learning Program.
News, Classes & Events!
LGBT+ Social Groups
Discussion Group | Monthly on the First Tuesday | 1:00 -2:30 pm
Support Group | Monthly on the First Thursday | 1:00 -2:30 pm
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