I am not sure what the OP specifically meant, but here goes: when I talk about "culture" in my city, I am usually referring to how often I will end up at event

I am not sure what the OP specifically meant, but here goes: when I talk about "culture" in my city, I am usually referring to how often I will end up at events which broaden my perspectives, simply by tagging along or following the suggestions of friends/acquaintances. For example: wine tastings, art gallery/museum openings, open mic amateur stand up comedy events, [specific thing, e.g. cactus] festivals, and so on. (in my experience many such events are free/inexpensive)