I've found that a very helpful resource for becoming involved in German culture in your area is to find a group with those of similar interested. You can do that through a great website called MeetUp.com. This connects people of many different interests to groups or clubs of others who share the same hobby or interest IN YOUR AREA.
In Kansas City, Mo., where I live, I used it to find a great German group that is full of native speakers! We meet at least once a week usually. It's a great way to get exposure to German culture, language and to make new friends.