Wein und Cocktails

**Check out [funeventssg](https://www.instagram.com/funeventssg/) Instagram for the latest updates!** Looking for a fun & easy way to meet new people? Join us for a relaxed **Board Games Social Mixer** where everyone’s welcome! Enjoy **a wide selection of games**, **free-flow snacks & drinks**, & **plenty of laughs** along the way. No experience needed — come solo or bring friends & **make new connections** through **fun & play**! 🎲✨ **All are welcome, regardless of race, language, religion, nationality, age\* or marital status, as long as you are willing to participate in the activities!** *\*Children are welcome as long as there are accompanying adults* ^Couples, large groups of friends or colleagues who wish to play among themselves and/or with members of the public are welcome too as long as RSVP is made in advance **Coming with your own friends, colleagues or family? Feel free to join too & special arrangements for a private table will be made for you!** Date: **20 April 2026 (Monday)** Time: **6.45 p.m. — 10.30 p.m.** (It is fine if you can only arrive later) Venue: **THE MIND CAFE MEGA** **30 Prinsep Street #01-01 Singapore 188647** *Please note that there are 2 outlets within 1 min walking distance. It is the larger MEGA Store.* *For information on car parking & last trains, click [here](https://www.themindcafe.sg/locate-us/)!* Entry Fee: **SGD13 nett (Heavily Discounted Rate)** **Best Deal for the Largest Social + Gaming Event in SG!** Inclusive of **Self-service** **Freeflow Snacks**, **Freeflow Drinks** & **Unlimited Gaming** for the night! * **Nett price including GST & Service Charge!** * **Well-lit**, **spacious**, **high-ceilinged**, **cosy** & **clean environment!** * **The only social + gaming event** that can accommodate **200 pax!** * **More than 800 boardgames** to choose from! * A **wide variety** of **Self-service Freeflow Snacks & Drinks (non-alcoholic) that you can help yourself to!** You may also order a mouth-watering Main Course at SGD12.90nett which is cheaper than usual! * **Complimentary Token of Appreciation** if you **bring & host your own games**! (PM me in advance) * **Special discounts** for purchase of selected **[boardgames](https://www.instagram.com/p/CswLndaPs_r/)** **exclusively for this event**! \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- **IMPORTANT**: 1\. Please ensure you have no close contact with Covid\-19/Mpox positive person\(s\) within the last 5 days\. 2\. Entry fee to be paid to The Mind Cafe upon entry\. Please keep the receipt as proof of payment\. 3\. Participants are strictly not allowed to take photographs or video recording of others at the event without permission\. 4\. Photographs will be taken by the organiser at the event for marketing & publicity\. Should you be uncomfortable with that\, kindly inform the organiser to omit you in the photographs\. 5\. You are encouraged to wear your mask for your own safety\. 6\. Please be considerate\. As seats are limited\, kindly un\-RSVP if you are unable to make it\. 7\. Please observe hygiene when playing the games & treat the games with care\. You may consider using chopsticks/ forks to eat the snacks\. 8\. Please ensure that the games do not get wet\. Kindly use a coaster/ serviette if it is an iced drink\. 9\. No form of solicitation\, MLM\, investment\, scam or harassment will be tolerated\. Kindly inform the organiser on the spot should you encounter anything that makes you uncomfortable\. 10\. Please take care of your personal belongings\. Exchange of any contact information is solely at your own discretion\. The organiser is not accountable for any incidents or loss of personal belongings\. The organiser reserves the right to deny entry to anyone who fails to comply with the rules. By signing up for this event, I agree to the terms & conditions stated above to ensure a safe and conducive environment for all! :)

The Go Academy Social Go Club is located at The Go Academy Punggol Centre Punggol Coast Mall, Tower 98, 98 Punggol Way, #01-224, Singapore 829857 **Event will happen by default. Usually we have 5 - 10 regular players every week. (They are not on meetup so you won't see the attendee count reflected here) So just come down! If you can't find us, text us at 9199 0946** When you have reached, the person in charge (likely Shaun) will arrange a player of your skill level for you to play with. If you haven't played in a long while or are just started learning for awhile, don't worry as there are other beginners and you will be able to play with handicaps. Most players start streaming in at 7PM onwards but it's ok to be early or later, whichever is more convenient to your timing. You are free to arrive at any time and leave at any time. Most serious players will play and review their games until 10PM and you are encouraged to do so. If you require a review of your game, you may politely request it from your opponent. We are all here to socialise and build a community around this game. There may be instances where there is a low visitor count. In such a case, Shaun will play a game with your personally or arrange an AI opponent so not to worry about a wasted trip. Please note that this is not a class for learning how to play. You may find our classes on our website @ https://thegoacademy.com.sg. Most importantly, enjoy and have fun. You may contact us at 9199 0946. We are open every Monday 7PM to 10PM until specifically stated. Join our WhatsApp group when you meet us in person. Do take note that we will not be dropping you a message on meetup to confirm that the event is happening or to liaise with you. The event by default is confirmed to take place every Wednesday.

Join us for an exclusive vegetarian meetup where we will have dinner together at a beautiful restaurant with total vibe 🥕🥦🍅🥬🌽✨ **Event Highlights:** Community Connection: Mingle with fellow vegetarians, expand your social circle, and engage in stimulating conversations about plant-based living and sustainable practices. We welcome all who are lifelong vegetarians, new to the plant-based journey or curious about the benefits of a meat-free diet. Date: 20th April 2026 Time: 7.00PM onwards Location: Burma Social (Tanjong Pagar) The table is booked at second floor up the stairs! RSVP: Please RSVP by the 19th of April to ensure your spot. Follow us[ @socialsisterssg](https://www.instagram.com/socialsisterssg/) for real-time updates on our exact location or any unexpected venue changes on the day itself ✨

**For ages 12 and above.** These classes are perfect for anyone looking to grasp a general understanding of “ground fighting” while discovering Submission Grappling and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. BJJ focuses on using proper technique, leverage, and most notably, taking the fight to the ground, and then applying joint-locks and chokeholds to defeat the opponent. Since Brazilian JiuJitsu focuses on submissions without the use of striking, BJJ is for everyone of all ages and abilities! These classes will allow you to focus on learning the many different positions, techniques, and skills required to become successful in this extremely popular martial art. In the Gi classes, participants are required to wear the traditional BJJ uniform called a “Gi”. Techniques in this class are taught in the traditional methods of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, in which the use of a gi is necessary. It is often agreed upon by the highest ranking grapplers and BJJ practitioners in the world that practicing BJJ while using the Gi is an essential part of becoming an elite level grappler. While practicing BJJ while using the gi, the student can then achieve a “belt ranking”. The color of one’s belt reflects their level of skill in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. ### **Booking Information** * Please contact **98225900** to find out how to book this class. * The instructor will reach out to you once you've booked the class ### **Cancellation Policy** Credits will be considered used if class is cancelled within 24 hours before the start of the lesson

**Thunder Pong 雷攻乒乓 Monday Table Tennis – Intermediate & Above** **(7:00 PM – 10:00 PM | 3 Hours)** Join us at **Thunder Pong** for a structured and competitive table tennis session catered for intermediate-level and above players. Suitable for players who enjoy competitive rallies, consistent match play, and pushing their game to the next level. **Skill Level** Open to intermediate-level and above players who can sustain good rallies and serve consistently. Participants should have a basic understanding of the game rules and maintain fair play and sportsmanship. **What to Bring** • Your own table tennis racket • Tables & balls provided (Nittaku / DFish / DHS 3⭐ 40+) **Venue** • High-grade 7mm ITTF-approved flooring • Fully air-conditioned **Important Rules** • ⏰ Session runs 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM • 👟 Indoor court shoes only 🚫 Running / track / outdoor shoes / slippers NOT allowed • 🍴 No eating in playing area • Play responsibly — any damage to venue/equipment is chargeable **RSVP & Payment** • $9 per session | PayNow only • Join waitlist to indicate interest • Once moved to RSVP (Going), payment must be made at least 48 hours before session • Unpaid slots may be released to the waitlist • Maximum 8 players per session If you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly. Let’s enjoy a competitive yet friendly TT session — sharpening skills, challenging ourselves, and making new friends 🏓 **Disclaimer** Participation is voluntary and at your own risk. Thunder Pong is not liable for injuries, damages, or losses. Players confirm they are medically fit, agree to sportsmanlike conduct, are responsible for personal belongings, and consent to photos/videos for promotional use.

**Click here for more WSET course dates, fees and information** [https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/](https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/) Learn the specific skills needed to identify the different styles of wine and enhance your senses to evaluate wine as well as the professionals. You will get into in depth study of the systematic approach which will equip you with the necessary skills through wine tasting. By the end of this course you will be eloquent in the language of wine and have picked up key knowledge of food and wine pairing to further specify your culinary style and taste. Diversify your skills in a fast-growing economy through Level 1 WSET and add value to your career portfolio. This course is also a fun way to get up to speed on what wine is and how it differs by style. Highly suitable for individuals with a strong interest in wine as well as for professionals kickstarting a career in hospitality or F&Bs by enriching service staff to confidently raise the profile of the company’s wines and enjoy increased revenue from every drop sold. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: You will go through the production of wine and learn about the main styles of wines and grape varieties. Our certified WSET wine educators will guide you through tasting techniques and the wine service process. You will get insight into practices and issues in the wine industry and be able to discuss about wines from different regions. You will be evaluating and tasting seven different kinds of wines and identifying good or bad food pairings. **Click here for more WSET course dates, fees and information** [https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/](https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/)

Welcome to my sailboat. **Please read this notice**. These are crew opportunities, not for passengers, non-swimmers, people afraid of the water or get seasick. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, a hat, non-marking footwear with heelstrap and sunblock. There is a toilet and drinking water on board. Participants like to contribute to expenses in appreciation of this opportunity. **Also**, please confirm your attendance by SMS or Whatsapp on Saturday for sailing on Sunday, to avoid no-shows and missed sailings. No-shows deprive others of a place, so be responsible and remove your reservation if you are not attending, and please do it in good time. Places unconfirmed by Saturday will not be reserved, and I can't wait for you if I'm not sure you're coming. Keep me informed and reply to my messages. Don't be late. Thank you. Derek 9807-5827.

🎓 Offset Your Course Fee with SkillsFuture Credits for Eligible Singaporeans! 💼 NTUC Members Enjoy Up to 50% Subsidy with UTAP **Click here for more WSET course dates, fees and information** [https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/](https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/) ## **MASTER THE ART OF SAKE WITH WSET LEVEL 2 CERTIFICATION COURSE** Embark on an elevated journey of sake exploration with the WSET Level 2 Sake course – a captivating odyssey for those seeking a deeper understanding of this exquisite Japanese beverage. Envision a glass filled with a pristine, chilled elixir, releasing a bouquet of enticing aromas that promise an unparalleled experience. Each sip transports you to the heart of Japan, where centuries of perfected sake craftsmanship unfold. If you are currently working in the sake industry or possess basic sake knowledge and are keen to enter into the F&B or sake trade, our WSET Level 2 sake course furthers your sake knowledge in a more in-depth programme. For professionals, knowledge is the key to success. In the realm of sake, a nuanced comprehension of production, diverse flavor profiles, and adept food pairings can shape the trajectory of your career. The WSET Level 2 Sake course has been meticulously crafted to provide you with a comprehensive grasp of sake's intricacies, spanning its illustrious history, production processes to prepare you to be come a sake sommelier. ## **WHAT YOU WILL LEARN** * Explore main sake styles and classifications. * Understand the types of rice that influence sake flavors. * Understand the role and production of Kōji * Tasting over 20 different sakes. * Describe sakes using the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting Sake® * Develop analytical tasting skills while exploring the sake style and quality. * Identify different categories & grades of sake ## **WHAT YOU WILL ACHIEVE** * Knowing the key stages in sake brewing and it’s unique processes. * Recognise the distinct features and styles of sake from various regions. * Understanding the art of appreciating sakes. * Be able to properly store and serve sakes * Feel more at confident arounds sakes and learn to buy only the best. * The art of pairing food and sake. ## **YOU ARE NOT ALONE** Many individuals struggle to comprehend the intricacies of sakes, leading to disappointment despite years of experience. Our two-day course provides guidance in developing techniques to train your palate and memory, enhancing your ability to detect sake aromas, flavors, and labels. Become a Sake Connoisseur or Sommelier – it's not an innate gift, but an achievable expertise through training and practice. *Let us help you achieve your dream with the WSET Level 2 Sake course!* 🎓 Offset Your Course Fee with SkillsFuture Credits for Eligible Singaporeans! 💼 NTUC Members Enjoy Up to 50% Subsidy with UTAP **Click here for more WSET course dates, fees and information** [https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/](https://www.finewines.com.sg/wset-level-1-wine-course-singapore/)

Kampung Ravenswood, Singapore's largest BOTC group brings gaming @ Marina One! Whether you are a light social gamer, a strategy gamer or totally new to gaming, enjoy your weekend with friends and enjoy gaming here! This event is focusing on Blood on the Clocktower, a murder mystery social deduction game with a twist. If you're new to the game, our experienced hosts will be guiding you every step of the way. What is Blood On The Clocktower (BOTC)? Watch here: [https://youtu.be/M-aZP47Nm9g?si=GEoGvRoApcY-6Alw](https://youtu.be/M-aZP47Nm9g?si=GEoGvRoApcY-6Alw) BOTC is a social deduction game played in a large group of 7-15 players. Be mentally prepared to engage in chaotic back-and-forth conversations and work together with your team to win the game. Lying in a social deduction game? Who knew... Game review: [https://youtu.be/ImcG8sC7qT4?si=8-eCYYf6Skt-rLzO](https://youtu.be/ImcG8sC7qT4?si=8-eCYYf6Skt-rLzO) Price: FREE! Come down and enjoy. Venue: Marina One, B2 (East Tower), opposite Luckin Coffee. Please contact Momo ([wa.me/6596701344](wa.me/6596701344)) or Muthu ([wa.me/6597125916](wa.me/6597125916)) for assistance.

Midweek plans? Come unwind with us over a glass of vegan-friendly wine at Deviate Wine Bar. Whether you're vegan, wine-curious, or just looking to meet new people, this is a relaxed, no-pressure evening to sip, chat, and connect. ✨ What to expect: • A curated selection of vegan wines • Chill, intimate wine bar vibes • Easy conversations with friendly people • No wine knowledge needed 👥 Who should join: • Wine lovers (beginner-friendly!) • Social explorers & professionals • Anyone curious about vegan wines 💰 Cost: we share a few bottles of drinks together (optional wine recommendations available) 📍 Venue: Deviate Wine Bar

**Tired of the endless "swipe" culture? Ready to meet real people in the real world?** 🥂 We’ve evolved. Liquid Convo is moving away from the "big crowd" noise to focus on what actually matters: quality conversation. We’re capping our numbers to ensure the room stays cozy, the vibes stay high, and you actually get to *talk* to people instead of shouting over them. By moving to a pre-paid ticket system, we’re ensuring every person in the room is as committed to building a real community as you are. No more "maybe" RSVPs or ghosting—just a room full of intentional young professionals. **✨ Why Join Us?** * **Warm Welcomes:** Our hosts act as "social catalysts." If you’re shy or coming alone, just find a host—we’ll introduce you to a friendly group immediately. * **Zero Pressure:** No forced networking or rigid schedules. Just organic conversation and good energy. * **A Safe Space:** We maintain a strict "No-Harassment" environment so you can relax and be yourself. **📍 Venue & Details** * **Where:** Koyoi by Kanpai (1 Shenton Way, #01-02, Singapore 068803) — *A chic, cozy spot perfect for conversation.* * **When:** Arrive between 6 PM – 7 PM for the Early Bird Special **Admission:** * **Ladies:** $5 (Early bird: $3) * **Gents:** $15 (Early bird: $10) * **Walk-in (Subject to space):** $20 flat rate for all. To guarantee the quality of the crowd and maintain our capacity limits, **all guests must secure a ticket via Luma.** 👉 **[Get your Early Bird Ticket here: luma.com/6vuef3e0](https://luma.com/6vuef3e0)** **🎁 Exclusive Perks for Our Guests** We’ve partnered with Koyoi to bring you some extra love: * **15% OFF Food:** Hungry? Enjoy a discount on the entire food menu all night. * **Ladies' Special:** Arrive early (6 PM – 7 PM) to enjoy Free Shots on the house! 🍸 **🤝 Our Community Values (The "Fine Print")** To keep our vibes high and our community safe, we have a zero-tolerance policy for solicitation, insurance/MLM pitching, or any form of harassment. If anyone makes you feel uncomfortable, please let an organizer know immediately. We’ve got your back. **💬 FAQs** **"I’m coming alone... is that okay?"** Absolutely! About 70% of our attendees come solo. Our hosts are on-site specifically to help you break the ice and ensure no one is left standing alone. **"What if I don't drink alcohol?"** No problem! Koyoi has a great selection of non-alcoholic beverages and food. It’s about the *convo*, not just the *liquid*. 👉 **Telegram:** [https://t.me/liquid_convo](https://t.me/liquid_convo) 👉 **Instagram:** [@liquidconvo](https://www.instagram.com/liquidconvo/?referrer=luma) #Networking #Singapore #Drinks #Meetup #Friends #Bar

We have never until now featured Zinfandel, the ubiquitous California grape with the Dublin Wine MeetUp Group. At its best Zinfandel, is rich, voluptuous, with great depth of red and blue fruits. Jammy and hedonistic are common descriptions Each person should bring one bottle of an quality Zinfandel wine; be creative and quality conscious, with some bottle age if possible. Turley, Martinelli, Biale, Seghesio, Ridge, Hartford Bedrock, Carlisle, Klinker Brick, Frog's Leap, and anything from the Rockpile vineyard is likely to be very good to great. The Prisoner wines began as a Zinfandel blend. Also bring a protein based appetizer to share and **a wine glass for your personal use.** Cheese and meats are best with these wines. There will be a gas grill behind the clubhouse to grill. We’ll gather at the Oak Creek clubhouse, where the Dublin Wine Group, hosted by Thom and supported by Timothy, will take it from there. Come join us for a fantastic mix of great wine, food, and even better company! The evening wraps up at 10 PM. **Please pay $10 at the door per person to cover the cost of the room rental and for the tableware, napkins, water and cups.** 🍷 **6:46 PM – Dublin Wine Group Social** 📍 **Oak Creek Clubhouse** **9005 Oak Village Blvd, Lewis Center, OH 43035** View on Maps (https://maps.apple.com/place?address=9005%20Oak%20Village%20Blvd,%20Lewis%20Center,%20OH%20%2043035,%20United%20States&coordinate=40.158011,-83.003901&name=Oak%20Creek%20at%20Polaris&place-id=I8D83B59D441EDD9B&map=explore)

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

The aim of this group is to get together and practice our German. Doesn’t matter if are a beginner or a native speaker. The goal is to speak and improve our German. Everyone is welcome! If the weather is good, look for us in the Biergarten. Pro Tip: Get there before 6:00 for happy hour pricing.

**Sunday Golf League at Safari Golf Club ⛳** Join us for a fun and social golf season at **Safari Golf Club** (next to the **Columbus Zoo and Aquarium**) in Powell! 🗓 **Sundays at 3:45 PM** 📅 May 3 – August 2 🏆 Week 13 (Aug 2): 9-hole scramble, awards party, food & prizes 🌧 Rain Date: August 16 🚫 No play on May 24 ⛳ **Season Includes:** • 13 weeks of golf • 12 weeks of 9-hole play • 13th week scramble + awards celebration 🚶 Walking is welcome in this league! You can choose to play in a **competitive** or **social** group — all skill levels encouraged. 💲 Full Season: $382 💲 Half Season: $210 YOU MUST SIGN UP AND PAY FOR LEAGUE WITH LINK BELOW: [Sunday Golf - 2026 - Calendar - Columbus Ski Club](https://www.columbusskiclub.org/content.aspx?page_id=4002&club_id=686961&item_id=2877928&actr=3) Questions? Peggy McDaniel (Activity Leader) – 614-216-6779 Bev McCain (Scoring Assistant) – 614-738-6560

Details Let's join together for a fiesta! (Invite friends - we have lots of room!) Taco Bar Margarita and Beer tasting Complementary chips and salsa Margs/cocktails at the bar for purchase Freshly prepared snacks in the deli for purchase Festive Band/Music Margaritas/Mexican Beer Tasting + Taco Bar: $15.00 per person (covers 4 Margarita or beer samples and one pass thru the Taco Bar) Where: #MarketDistrict (Grandview Yard) location. The party room (our private space) will be decorated with both patios open! Adjoining upstairs area also open for over flow and mingling. After Party: Sometimes, we head to a venue to hear live music afterwards. LDNL is at Black Swan in Hilliard tonight! Wear your bright colors and cheerful !Salud!

**History** [Prairie Oaks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/prairie-oaks/) sits along the Franklin and Madison County border, west of Columbus near areas like Hilliard and West Jefferson. The land was part of the broader push in the late 1990s and early 2000s to expand the Metro Parks system into the northwest and western quadrants of the county. Metro Parks began acquiring parcels for what would become Prairie Oaks during the millennium era, as part of a wave of new parks aimed at protecting natural features around Big Darby Creek. Much of the property had been altered by past uses, including farming and quarrying, which left behind pits that later became the Darby Bend Lakes. The park's creation reflected growing interest in preserving remnants of the Darby Plains ecosystem, one of Ohio's original prairie regions that had largely disappeared after European settlement. The park officially opened to the public in 2000, making it one of the newer additions to the Metro Parks lineup at the time. As the 12th park in the system, it joined others acquired around the turn of the century, like Glacier Ridge. Initial access focused on basic trails and the scenic Big Darby Creek, a State and National Scenic River that winds through the property. Restoration efforts kicked off soon after opening, with crews using seeds native to the Darby Plains to replant nearly 500 acres of tallgrass prairie and grasslands. These plantings aimed to revive the open oak savannas that once characterized the area before widespread agriculture in the 1800s. Over the first decade, Prairie Oaks grew in popularity for its mix of restored habitats and recreational features. The former quarry in the eastern section transformed into the Darby Bend Lakes area, where four connected lakes now offer boating, fishing, and a dedicated dog swim spot. Trails expanded to showcase the prairie blooms, especially in summer and fall when asters and goldenrods light up the fields. Partnerships with groups like The Nature Conservancy highlighted the park's role in protecting the Darby Creek watershed, often called one of the "Last Great Places" for its water quality and biodiversity. Visitors from around central Ohio started discovering it as a quieter alternative to busier spots closer in. Restoration work continued into the 2010s, including wet prairie projects on about 190 acres to enhance hydrology and native plant diversity. The park's size reached over 2,200 acres, incorporating more floodplain along Big Darby Creek for flood storage and wildlife habitat. Amenities like parking at Sycamore Plains and Darby Bend Lakes improved access, drawing hikers, kayakers, and birders. Events and programs began emphasizing the prairie theme, from guided walks on blooming seasons to educational talks about pre-settlement landscapes. These efforts helped solidify Prairie Oaks as a showcase for ecological recovery in the Metro Parks system. Today, Prairie Oaks stands out for blending restored prairie with creek-side adventure, just a short drive from the west side. Its history mirrors the Metro Parks' shift toward large-scale habitat restoration in the 21st century. The park continues to evolve with ongoing stewardship, protecting what remains of the Darby Plains while offering locals a place to experience tallgrass vistas and oak openings. Whether paddling the lakes or walking the trails, it's a reminder of how much the region has changed since settlement — and how intentional work can bring some of it back. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Prairie Oaks](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/POK_map_1980.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Coneflower, Alder, and Sycamore Plains Trails, and, depending on conditions, the Osage Opening and Tall Grass Trails, or Lake View, Mound, Darby Creek Greenway, and River Rock Trails around the lakes. Either way, we'll go around 4.5 to 5 miles. For the most part, this won't be a terribly strenuous hike; Prairie Oaks tends to be flat. However, some of the hike won't be shaded, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. Parts of the trails may also be muddy or wet, so I recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) and a change of socks. **Where We'll Meet** * Enter the Park at the main entrance at 3225 NE Plain City-Georgesville Rd. If you put "Prairie Oaks Metro Parks" into your Google Maps, it should default to this main address (but double-check to be sure). * After you enter the Park, the first parking lot on your right is the Park Office. Keep driving past this lot. * Enter the second parking lot you come to (which is also on your right). There's a picnic area, playground, and latrine here. There's no water fountain, though, so I recommend you bring water of your own, at least for after the hike. * I've included a screen shot in the Photos, below, where I've circled in blue the main Park entrance as well as the picnic area we're meeting at. **After the Hike** After we're done surveying the prairie grasses, we'll head over to [Crooked Can Brewing](https://crookedcanohio.com/) for [drinks](https://www.crookedcanohio.com/beer) and [food](https://www.crookedcanohio.com/center-street-market). The brewery has an entire food court, and they have a large free parking lot next to the [Early Television Museum](https://www.earlytelevision.org/). The actual address of the brewery is [5354 Center St, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/5354+Center+St,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883893f9ede6d5fb:0xbecf42d7055d9006?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

Love getting lost in a good book? [The Book Loft](https://www.bookloft.com/) of German Village is an iconic independent bookstore packed with hard-to-find literary treasures! This isn’t your run-of-the-mill bookstore; it’s a 32-room literary wonderland that would make even the most seasoned bibliophile’s head spin (one of the largest in the country)! **MEET**: We'll gather outside the storefront and then start browsing... **DESSERT**: We'll grab some famous macaroons to start our foodie tour. [Pistacia Vera](https://www.pistaciavera.com/) is a delicious bakery and cafe in the German Village. This charming shop is especially known for its classic macarons. **HAPPY HOUR**: Italian drinks and bites at [Cento's happy hour](https://centogermanvillage.com/menus/). **PARKING**: Street parking all around here. Check the parking time limit. The bookstore and the foodie stops are all on 3rd Street within 4 blocks on the same side of the street.