One of our local shops has a Tuesday night get together...we just visit a lot of the times but some bring their projects and machines or do hand sewing also. Occasionally someone will have a "lesson" scheduled but it's not a serious event by any means. The 4th Thursday we play a bingo of sorts using 2 1/2 WOF strips.
You also are allowed to shop after hours for those of us that can't get there during the day...makes it nice for all of us.