The Ely Community Center hosts a wide variety of activities, events, and rentals throughout the year. This calendar shows everything happening in the building so members and the community can plan ahead.
Here’s how to read the calendar:
👉 Public events (no prefix) are open to all — just come and enjoy!
👉 Members: activities are for members and their guests.
👉 Hosted Group: activities are hosted by groups meeting at the Community Center. These are open to new members — contact the organizer to learn more.
👉 By Reservation: events that require an appointment or sign-up (please do not drop in).
👉 Rental: private events or by invitation only.
Room colors:
🟩 Main Hall | 🟥 Meeting Room | 🟦 Commercial Kitchen | 🟧 Whole Building
These activities are open to members and their guests. Membership is just $20/year and everyone is welcome!
Bingo
Wednesdays, 1–4 PM
Lively games, prizes, and lots of fun! One of our most popular events.
Ping Pong
Sundays at 1:00 PM, Wednesdays at 6:00 PM
Friendly indoor table tennis—bring your paddle or borrow one! Great exercise and even better company.
Smear
Mondays, 6–9 PM (September - May)
A local favorite. Come for the cards, stay for the company.
Walking Club
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 10–11 AM
Get your steps in — indoors! Great way to stay active and social, no matter the weather.
Mah Jongg
Thursdays, 12–3 PM
Learn and play this classic tile game. Newcomers and experienced players welcome.
Pinochle
Thursdays & Fridays, 1–4 PM
Looking for a fourth? Join our friendly group for a few hands and good conversation.
Online & Homeschool Study Group
Fridays, 9 AM –1 PM
A quiet, welcoming space for middle and high school students to work independently and connect with friends.
Monthly Highlights
Community Potluck
First Wednesday of each month, 11:30 AM
Bring a dish to share and enjoy a delicious meal with friends old and new.
Sign up to bring a dish on the sheet posted in the Community Center lobby.
If you don't have a dish, don't worry - $5 suggested donation.
Member & Board Meeting
Second Wednesday of each month, 4 PM
All are welcome to attend and stay informed on what's happening in the center.
We’re always open to new activities! If you'd like to start a group or offer a class, contact us.
Minnesota DMV
1st & 3rd Mondays of each month *excluding holidays
State driver’s license and ID services available.
📞 Call 651-284-1234 or go to drive.mn.gov to schedule.
Cancer Support Group
2nd Wednesday of each month
A supportive space for those affected by cancer—patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones.
📧 Contact: Mary Ann 218-365-4927 or Shirley 218-365-3422
Bridge Club
Wednesdays, 12–3 PM
Friendly games for experienced and new players.
📧 Contact: Terry Cooper 651-230-2117
Wellness Wednesday
Monthly - 1st Wednesday at 11:00 AM – Open to all
Free blood pressure checks and tips from volunteer nurses.
Contact: (218) 302-1778 or SeniorProgramLeader@elycommunityhealth.org
Braver Angels Meetings
Monthly community conversations focused on bridging divides.
📧 Contact: ElyBraverAngels@gmail.com
Happy Toes
Every other Tuesday, by appointment
Gentle nail care for seniors.
📞 Book at: 218-290-1986
Ladies of Kaleva
Monthly – New members welcome
A Finnish heritage group with deep community roots.
TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly)
Thursdays at 8:00 AM
Weekly support meetings – all are welcome
📞 Contact: Trish 270-945-6228
Praise Fellowship Church Service
Sundays at 10:00 AM
Open to the public.
Info: https://praisefellowship0.wixsite.com/praisefellowship
Other private groups also meet regularly at the Community Center, including small prayer groups, classes, and clubs. While not open to the public, we’re proud to support their community work!
The Ely Community Center thrives thanks to the time and talents of our members and neighbors. Whether you can bake cookies, wash windows, plan an event, or write a grant — there’s a way for everyone to get involved!
Volunteer opportunities include:
Baking for our Blueberry Bazaar Bake Sale and PTO Halloween Party
Helping with the Annual Membership Luncheon
Window washing and light building maintenance days
Grant writing and fundraising
Planning new programs or activities
Running snack stations at events
Other fun projects throughout the year!
Want to help?
Talk to a board member or email us at elycommunitycenter@gmail.com — we’d love to have you on the team!