Campos de entrenamiento al aire libre

Welcome to join our Sahaja Yoga meditation meetings in English! The meetings are free of charge and you can just show up. The group consists of people of different ages and nationalities who have been meditating different periods of time. Newcomers are welcome at any time. We normally sit on chairs or on pillows on the floor, so there is no need to bring a mat and you can wear normal clothes. Meditation means mental silence or thoughtless awareness. You are present here and now, but your mind is not bombarded by thoughts from the past or the future. In this state, you feel peace and joy, which are the essential elements of the present moment. With regular practice of meditation, it is possible to establish this state within us. The group is lead by volunteers who are experienced and can offer guidance to get you started. We give a short introduction to the meditation and after that we do meditation exercises. We also give tips on how to meditate at home. After the meditation class, we have a cup of tea and there is time for questions. Welcome! We hope to see you in our meditation meetings! This video helps you to find the Kamppi Sahaja Yoga center: https://vimeo.com/199566137 More information about Sahaja Yoga meditation: www.discoversahajayoga.org (in English) www.jooga.org (in Finnish) www.sahajayoga.ru (in Russian) www.sahajayoga.es (in Spanish) Guided online meditations to support your meditation practice at home: www.wemeditate.com

Warm welcome to join our weekly improv club for amateurs! No previous experience in theatre or improvisation is required – the most important thing is to have fun and try something new. **IMPORTANT**: Spots are limited, please make sure to reserve yours! The training sessions teach and apply basic improv techniques, skills and principles. In addition to short exercises, those who are interested can work towards for a small performance for a small audience in late spring – however, participation is also meaningful without the desire to perform. *Commitment*: The first four times you can come and get to know the other participants and the techniques without any commitment. From week 16 (14th of April) onwards, the group will close in hopes that the participants can work more focused together and develop onto what we have learned. Participants will also get the opportunity to take turns directing the rest of the group or other smaller responsibilities as they gain confidence. WHEN & WHERE: Tuesdays at 18-20, starting 17th of March Tallipääty, MIITTI office Lapinlahten Lähde Lapinlahdenpolku 1 00180 Helsinki About the facilitator: Iska Knuuttila has been part of the Jyväskylä-based Impropaatti group in 2020–2024, where he led some of the training and performed in two performance seasons. The repertoire included both short techniques and long plays. Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community! IG: instagram.com/miitti1 Facebook: facebook.com/miitti1 Web: lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti/

Learning Finnish in Finland can be difficult because Finns tend to switch to English. That is one of the reasons people like our Finnish language café: you get to practice Finnish with Finns :) The events are completely free and there is always a native speaker to facilitate the conversation and to help find the right words. The coffee is good too ☕😋🇦🇹 Tervetuloa! When? ⏰ Usually Tuesday to Friday from 15:00 - 16:00 Where? 📍 In a cozy Viennese coffee house: The Good Coffee Company, Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki The Good Coffee Company A Taste of Vienna 🇦🇹 Eerikinkatu 33, 00180 Helsinki Please visit our Facebook page for updates and changes: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodCoffeeCompany/events

(SWE nedan) This is a language café for anyone who wants to practice their Swedish through discussion in a laid-back environment. Swedish Language Café takes place every Tuesday at Luckan, and the programme is adapted according to the participants’ needs and wishes. Swedish Language Café is organised in collaboration with Kvinnliga Akademiker i Helsingfors. The Swedish Language Café meets at Luckan, Georgsgatan 27 / Yrjönkatu 27 every Tuesday at 17:30-19:00. There is no need to sign up in advance. For more information: integration@luckan.fi SWE Swedish Language Café är ett språkkafé som är öppet för alla som vill öva svenska via diskussioner i en avslappnad miljö. Språkkaféet hålls varje tisdag och programmet anpassas enligt deltagarnas behov och önskemål. Språkkafét ordnas i samarbete med Kvinnliga Akademiker i Helsingfors. Språkkafét hålls på Luckan, Georgsgatan 27 klockan 17:30-19:00. Förhandsanmälan krävs ej. För mera information kontakta integration@luckan.fi

Hello sporty population! Let's gather around and play some football together with people from around the world! IMPORTANT! Spots are limited, so make sure you reserver yours! If you are not registered on the list, you will be kindly asked to leave; this is to ensure fair access for everyone! We will play indoors at Playbox in Vantaa on Tuesday evenings from 18.00-19.00 Age limit: 16+ You can come directly inside the hall or meet us at the entrance a bit before 18.00. MIITTI welcomes everyone to its events regardless of background or gender. You don't have to have any skills at all to come and play with us, and if you do, please come and coach us! WHERE: Playbox Vetokuja 1 01610 Vantaa Warm welcome! If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms: WhatsApp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!

Join us for an empowering workshop hosted by Helsinki Toastmasters, focusing on mastering confidence and communication skills. Whether you are a seasoned public speaker or just starting your journey, this event is tailored for individuals looking to boost their self-empowerment and enhance their leadership skills. Our experienced mentors will share valuable insights on how to speak with conviction, project confidence, and become a compelling communicator. Connect with like-minded individuals, network with professionals, and engage in thought-provoking discussions aimed at personal development and positive thinking. Elevate your public speaking game, gain inspiration, and set yourself on the path to success. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in yourself and unleash your full potential. Helsinki Toastmasters welcomes you to this interactive event that promises to be both educational and fun. The meeting is in English language, meet and greet starts at 17:30, meeting starts at 17:45 pm sharp. Warmly welcome as a guest.

Here's an opportunity to practice German over a good cup of coffee in a cozy Viennese coffee house 🍷☕️🍻🍾🎡 🇦🇹 The events are free and there is always a native speaker to facilitate the conversation and to help find the right words. You can also enjoy specialties from Vienna ☕️🇦🇹🥰 When? ⏰ Usually Tuesdays from 16:00 - 17:00 Where? 📍 In a cozy Viennese Café & Restaurant: The Good Coffee Company, Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki Herzlich willkommen! Tässä mahdollisuus harjoitella saksaa hyvän kahvin äärellä viihtyisässä wienilaisessa kahvilassa 🍷☕️🍻🍾🎡 🇦🇹 Tapahtumat ovat ilmaisia ja mukana on aina saksaa äidinkielenään puhuva henkilö. Saat myös kokeilla erikoisuuksia Wienistä. ☕️🇦🇹🥰 Milloin? ⏰ Yleensä tiistaina klo 16.00-17.00 Missä? 📍 Viihtyisässä wieniläisessä kahvilassa ja ravintolassa: The Good Coffee Company, Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki Herzlich willkommen! The Good Coffee Company Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki www.thegoodcoffee.co A Taste of Vienna 🇦🇹 PS: Please visit our Facebook Page for updates and changes: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodCoffeeCompany/events

Discover the restorative power of nature on a guided forest walk on the island of Seurasaari. Through calm observation and gentle connection with the forest atmosphere, slow down, unwind, and sharpen your senses. **IMPORTANT**: Spots are limited, please make sure to reserve yours! If you are not registered, you will be kindly asked to leave. Step out of everyday busyness and into a more present, embodied experience of nature. Practice selected ForestMind exercises and include optional moments of shared reflection in a safe, supportive space. These gentle exercises invite you to open your senses, cultivate a feeling of calm and refreshment, and practice being fully present in the moment. Some invitations focus on noticing and kindly accepting your own thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. The method, developed in Finland by Mrs. Sirpa Arvonen, combines researched nature-based health effects with simple mind-skill practices and is suitable for everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, or previous experience. Leave the forest feeling grounded, refreshed, and more connected to yourself and your surroundings. **Program details:** *WHEN:* Wednesday 8th of April, starting at 11.00 and ending around 14.00 *LOCATION:* Seurasaari Island – about 3Km on designated forest trails (easy access, paths available). *MEETING POINT:* I will meet you just before the white bridge in Seurasaari, (you will see the bridge when you get off from the bus). *AGE:* over 18yo ***PLEASE NOTE***: the activity will take place with sun or rain. Participants bring comfortable shoes/clothing, weatherproof clothing, water bottle, and an open mind. No extra equipment required. *COSTS:* free. The participants pay own bus ticket to and from Seurasaari Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community! IG: instagram.com/miitti1 Facebook: facebook.com/miitti1 Web: [lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti](http://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHjdO6QGKx3W-tfkeqWZwP-A2L4CJvi-dtPCJg0r5i0b7aZ26Xg9M70PgQrcF_aem_bilwGCnh6QkHC4t7bmF_8w)/

【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】 * The purpose of social games is to know some people, do some exercise and enjoy the games together with others. Winning and getting points is not the focus of this session. Please play with consideration to your opponents' level. * Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) 【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】 * Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game) * We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list) * It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game) to see if there is still a slot available there. * The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost. 【FEE and REFUND POLICY】 * Fee includes courts and plastic shuttles. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event. * Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter. * You can put a comment to sell your slot after the deadline of refund, or sell your slot in our whatsapp group. * No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence. * Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you was there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't come to use it. 【COMMUNICATION】 * Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347) * There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected. 【OTHERS】 * Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you! * If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond. * We play double games to 21 points. After each game, please let those who are waiting to play. Feel free to play with whoever you want, but please avoid playing with the same people all the time. * If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you. * Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work. * Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken. [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing) * [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/) * You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" * https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/[https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)

**Welcome to Azure and Friends April meetup hosted by Nordcloud at Pohjoisesplanadi right at the heart of Helsinki.** Save the date and join us to spend some time with likeminded people and to listen interesting presentations about Azure. Event will be held in **English**. **We have a no-show policy:** In accordance with our [code-of-conduct](https://www.azureandfriends.com/code-of-conduct), if you are not able to participate and do not cancel, you will not be allowed to participate in upcoming events for the **next six months**. **Waitlisting:** If the event is full, please join the waitlist as seats usually free up closer to the event date. Organizers will also remind attendees to review their RSVP status couple days before event. **Photos, Live streaming and Social Media:** Please notice that we reserve rights to takes photos of the event and speakers and publish them in our social media channels. Some events might be recorded or live streamed. If you wish not to be in photos or recordings, please contact one of the organizers at the event. **LinkedIn:** Consider following **[Azure and Friends](https://www.linkedin.com/company/azure-and-friends/)** at LinkedIn **Event agenda:** 16:45-17:20 - Doors open & Food 17:20-17:30 - Azure and Friends Intro 17:30-17:40 - Welcome words by **Nordcloud** 17:40-18:20 - **TBA** by **TBA (TBA)** 18:20-18:30 - Break 18:30-19:10 - **TBA** by **TBA (TBA)** 19:10-21.00 --> Networking

Join us for an exciting day of horse racing in Vermo, the largest harness racing track in Finland! The stakes are high this Saturday as some of the country's finest horses and drivers compete for a place in Finlandia-Ajo, the biggest trotting event of the year. Whether you're new to horse racing or already a fan, join us to watch the races in great company. The track awaits. It's race day. THIS WEEK: Vermo Approximate duration: 3 hours Betting: Optional and responsible Meeting point: Leppävaara Train Station How to get there: For example, you can take the A or U train from Helsinki Central Station. Official event page: https://vermo.fi/?action=getcontent&type=viewevent&eventid=210

【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】 * The purpose of competitive game session is to enjoy badminton games by focusing on trying your best to win the games. * You don't need to be a very good player to join this session. Our level range from beginner to intermediate. We will put you to play with people with similar level. But if you are the first time to come and I don't know your level, then I will put you to play with less-experienced players to start. * Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) Please also read the instruction inside this link, so that you have an idea how it works. * Please bring feather shuttles to join the games. We only accept specific shuttles. Please read the following. **If you come without bringing feather shuttles with you, I may ask you to go home.** 【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】 * Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) * We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list) * It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) to see if there is still a slot available there. * The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost. 【FEE and REFUND POLICY】 * Fee includes courts and the work I do to continue this group. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event. * Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter. * No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence. * Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you is there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't show up. 【COMMUNICATION】 * Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347) * There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected. 【DETAILS of COMPETITIVE GAMES】 * This is the list of shuttles we accept: RSL Classic Tourney Li-Ning Super 1000 Victor Smash It 1 Victor Smash It 2 Yonex Aerosansa 30 Ling Mei Gold Ling Mei Black * Smash Center also sells feather shuttles (Ling Mei Gold and Black). You can purchase there at your arrival. 【OTHERS】 * Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you! * If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond. * If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you. * Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work. * Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken. [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing) * You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)

**All are welcome**, wherever you are in your running/walking journey! We meet at Lapinlahti’s sauna, and the run begins promptly at 6:00 PM. **Please arrive early to get ready.** * There is a changing room, a few lockers, and a bathroom available. * We will run from the sauna to the Sibelius Monument and back — a total distance of 6–6.5 km. * The sauna house will be locked while we are out running. * After the run, we will swim, hang out, and enjoy the sauna until **8:00 PM**. * We kindly ask everyone to leave by 8:00 PM. * **To ensure fair participation, if you are no longer able to join, please cancel at least 3 hours in advance so individuals on the waitlist may attend.** * *Zero Tolerance for Harassment* **Hosted by: Nia & Olli** Contact: Nia – +358 408223934 **HOW TO FIND US:** When arriving at the main gates of Lapinlahden Lähde, turn right and head towards the water. Lapinlahti's sauna is located halfway between the yellow main building and the red Venetsia building We want everyone to feel welcome and safe. **By participating, you agree to:** • Respect others – Be mindful of personal boundaries, privacy, and consent. • Listen actively – Give space for all voices and avoid dominating conversations. • Use inclusive language – Avoid offensive, discriminatory, or exclusionary remarks. • Be considerate in the sauna – Some people may prefer quiet or need space. • Address issues kindly – If a problem arises, bring it up respectfully or with the hosts. Tervetuloa Run to Saunaan! Tapaamme Lapinlahden saunalla ja lähdemme juoksemaan noin kello 18.00. Tulethan ajoissa! • Käytössä on pukuhuone, lokeroita ja vessat. • Juoksemme saunalta Sibelius-monumentille ja takaisin. Kokonaismatka on noin 6-6,5 km. • Sauna on lukossa juoksun ajan. Juoksun jälkeen saunomme, uimme ja vietämme aikaa yhdessä kello 20.00 saakka. Kello 20.00 jälkeen meidän täytyy poistua. Tapahtuman järjestävät: Nia ja Olli Voit soittaa Nialle: +358 408223934 MITEN MEIDÄT LÖYTÄÄ: Kun saavut Lapinlahden Lähteen pääporteille, käänny oikealle kohti merta. Lapinlahden sauna on keltaisen päärakennuksen ja punaisen Venetsia-rakennuksen puolivälissä. Haluamme, että kaikilla on turvallinen olo. Run to Sauna -tapahtumissa noudatamme seuraavia periaatteita: • Kunnioitamme toistemme rajoja ja yksityisyyttä. • Annamme kaikille tilaa osallistua keskusteluun. • Puhumme kaikista ihmisistä ja ihmisryhmistä kunnioittavasti. • Olemme ystävällisiä toisillemme. • Ongelmatapauksissa voit kääntyä ohjaajien puoleen. **MIITTI’s Principles for safer space:** MIITTI wants to nourish a safe and pleasant environment for everyone, where everyone can feel safe as themselves. By joining as a volunteer, employee or participant of the event or activity, you agree to follow the guidelines below *Non-discrimination* I do not make assumptions about people based on their external characteristics or names. I treat all participants with respect, and I don’t use language or take actions that discriminate based on race, gender, sexuality, disability, age, religion, or any other characteristic. I respect pronouns and names. *Boundaries* I respect others' personal space and boundaries, both physical and mental. I acknowledge that I cannot know someone else's boundaries without asking first. I ask before touching. I listen to others and adapt my behavior if someone indicates that my behavior makes them feel uncomfortable. *Creating Safe Environment* Everyone is responsible for contributing to a safe and respectful environment. If I witness harassment, I do my part to support those who experience inappropriate or offensive treatment. *Zero Tolerance for Harassment* Our space upholds a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of harassment. Harassment, whether verbal, physical, or online, will not be tolerated. If you experience or witness inappropriate behavior or harassment at our events, please report it to the MIITTI or Lapinlahden Lähde staff. If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms: IG: [instagram.com/miitti1](http://instagram.com/miitti1) Facebook: [facebook.com/miitti1](http://facebook.com/miitti1) Web: [lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti](http://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti) Whatsapp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!

🌍 World Breakfast Stories – A Cultural Morning Experience Start your weekend differently. Join us at Café GTC in Helsinki for a unique breakfast experience where food meets culture. Each weekend we explore a different country through a short guided story, beautiful visuals on the big screen, music, and cultural insights — all while you enjoy a delicious breakfast. 🕗 Saturday & Sunday | 7:00–11:00 🎥 15-minute cultural spotlight presentation 🥐 Full breakfast included 💶 Early Bird: €17.90 | Regular: €19.90 Limited seats (50 spots). Come for breakfast. Stay for the story. Travel the world without leaving Helsinki.

Main Library, Meeting Room 3B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia

**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.

Let’s walk the gardens and enjoy what has spring has on display.

Join us for a two mile trail hike alongside the Brookside Trail at Blendon Woods Metro Park. This trail is largely gravel and does include some hills and stairs. Hopefully we will see some wildlife while hike this scenic trail! Join us!