The Hydration Workshop: Muddle, Blend, & Sip

Join us at the East Lions Community Centre to celebrate the arrival of spring with a hands-on healthy beverage workshop! This session focuses on crafting refreshing, hydrating drinks that prioritise flavour and nutrition without relying on high sugar content. We’ll explore natural fruit sugars, zero-sugar alternatives, and the science of simple syrups to create delicious mocktails and teas perfect for the upcoming summer heat.   

Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026 

Time: Kitchen doors open at 5:45 PM, workshop begins at 6:00 PM 

Location: East Lions Community Centre, 1731 Churchill Ave, London, ON N5W 5P4 

What You’ll Experience:

• Meet Your Community & Connect: We’ll start with a quick icebreaker so you can meet the people at your table and get settled in.
• Food Safety & Hydration Science: We’ll go over the best practices for handling fresh produce safely and discuss the science of hydration, the role of Vitamin C, and how different ingredients support our bodies during the warmer months.
• Skills Demonstration: We’ll walk through the most efficient techniques for juicing citrus, "waking up" fresh herbs to release their aroma, and professional knife skills for prepping garnishes. We will also demonstrate safe blending and how to prepare a balanced simple syrup.
• Hands-on Beverage Crafting: You’ll work with your group to rotate through four interactive stations:
  • The Blender Station: A refreshing Watermelon, Lime, and Coconut Water blend with fresh mint.
  • The Muddle Station: A vibrant Berry and Basil smash focusing on Vitamin C-rich fruits.
  • The "Ginger Kick" Fizz Station: A punchy blend of fresh orange, lime, and zero-sugar ginger beer.
  • The Tea Station: A classic Iced Black Tea with lemon and various zero-sugar alternatives.
• Tasting & Discussion: Everyone will have the opportunity to sample a half-cup (approx. 120ml) of each creation. We’ll use guided prompts to discuss the unique nutritional benefits and flavour profiles of each drink.
• Wrap-Up & Community Care: Once the recipes are finished, we’ll enjoy our drinks together and share take-home nutrition tips before pitching in to get the stations cleaned up.

A Welcoming Space for Everyone:

At Grow Cook Learn, we believe that healthy eating looks different for everyone. This is a judgment-free space where all bodies, backgrounds, and skill levels are celebrated. We focus on food neutrality and the joy of building skills as a community.

Families & Children:

Kids are absolutely welcome! Please keep in mind that the workshop begins with a short interactive presentation. During the beverage preparation, knives and blenders will be used. We expect all participants to follow safe handling practices as we share tools and space. We are happy to make accommodations—please let us know if you require any specific arrangements when you register.

What to Bring:

• Your enthusiasm and curiosity!
• A small bottle or container to safely transport any extra drink samples home.
• Clean indoor shoes (please change out of outdoor or dirty shoes to help keep our kitchen space clean and safe).
• A hair tie or clip to secure long hair during preparation.
• A personal lock if you would like to use the on-site lockers for your phone or wallet.
• All ingredients, tools, and materials are provided.

Note: For kitchen safety and to keep walkways clear, coats and large bags will be kept on our coat rack just outside of the room.

Accessibility & Parking:

The East Lions Community Centre is a fully accessible facility. There is ample free parking available onsite. The community kitchen features accessible entrances and bathrooms, as well as adjustable-height tables. While the main countertops are standard height, the kitchen includes a dedicated wheelchair-accessible section with a sink and countertop to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.

About East Lions Community Centre:

The East Lions Community Centre is a vibrant hub for the Argyle community and beyond. This modern facility offers a wide range of programming, including a full-sized pool, gymnasiums, and specialized rooms for art and weaving classes. The centre features a professional community kitchen space designed for collaborative learning and nutrition education. Outdoors, the facility is surrounded by a large park featuring accessible playgrounds, basketball courts, and space for soccer. Whether you are looking for yoga, Pilates, or a place to connect with neighbours, East Lions serves as a cornerstone for recreation and wellness in London. We are excited to be borrowing their kitchen space for our workshop. Learn more at East Lions Community Centre. 

About Grow Cook Learn:

The London Community Resource Centre (LCRC) is a nonprofit organisation dedicated to building community through food education and security. Grow Cook Learn is one of LCRC’s core programs, offering hands-on cooking workshops that promote nutrition literacy, foster community connections, empower individuals, and build confidence in the kitchen. Learn more at http://lcrc.on.ca/.

Disclaimers:

• Ingredient & Selection Variance: Fruit availability may vary based on seasonal supply. You will have the freedom to adjust the sweetness of your drinks using the variety of natural and zero-sugar options provided.
• Allergen Note: All ingredients provided are vegan (dairy-free and egg-free). Please be aware that recipes involve citrus, berries, and tea. If you have specific allergies or require accommodations, please inform us during registration.
• Attendance Policy: To ensure a quality experience for all, please plan to attend the entire session. Arriving late will result in missing the introductions and vital safety information, while leaving early may result in you being unable to complete and taste all of the drink recipes.