Celtic Culture

\#\# A low\-cost\, 6\-week intermediate\-level Portuguese course with the non\-profit organization\, the Global Language Network\. Ready to dive into the world of Portuguese? Join our fun and interactive class designed especially for those new to the language. **Details** Portuguese Tourist with Fernanda Thursdays from 7:00pm - 9:00pm ET Apr 9th to May 14th In-person, Farragut Square DC Ready to learn? **Register [HERE](http://%5B%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D)(%5Bhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform%5D(https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)) "\[\[https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)\](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSem9IdJEYqsE91SvfEEjIe8FuvoAjOusgE2ab_qkvm3apyjzg/viewform)").** **Additional Information** * GLN classes are open to everyone over 18 years of age. * Have a credit or stipend to apply to your payment? Learn more about our credit, stipend, and refund policy on the [Pricing & Course Levels page.](http://%5B%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D)(%5Bhttps://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels%5D(https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)) "\[\[https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)\](https://thegln.org/pricing-%26-course-levels)") **About GLN** We are a Washington, DC-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to "Use Language as a Tool to Help Fix Our World." Since 2015 we have been rated #1 Best Language Classes in Washington, DC by Yelp! We are so happy and grateful to have you join our network and we appreciate your support of our mission.

Giao, one of our avid travelers is inviting you to join her on this amazing 12 days tour of Uzbekistan. Tour includes: Small groups of maximum 22 travelers guaranteed Round trip flights New York-Tashkent, Tashkent-New York Other departure cities available at additional cost. Intra-flight: Tashkent-Urgench 10 nights accommodations 3 nights Tashkent 2 nights Khiva 3 nights Bukhara 2 nights Samarkand Hotel taxes, fees & service charges Hotel porterage All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates† 26 meals: 11 breakfasts, 8 lunches, 7 dinners Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned vehicles Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout Comprehensive, guided sightseeing and entrance fees per itinerary Active itinerary with unique cultural features Tour Highlights Thanks to our small group size, we can get to the heart of our destination, visit places that other tours miss, and get to know the locals. In Tashkent, tour Khazrati Imam Complex, home to exquisite mosques, monuments, and madrasas Visit Muyi Muborak Madrasa and view one of the oldest copies of the Koran Travel to Toprak Kala, an ancient settlement on the edge of the Kyzylkum Desert Tour the walled city of Khiva, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site Visit the revered Pakhlavan Mahmoud Mausoleum in Khiva, built in honor of the legendary poet Discover the beauty of Bukhara, one of the most important ancient cities in Uzbekistan Watch a cooking demonstration of pilav, a traditional rice dish, followed by a home hosted dinner Tour the cultural heritage monument of Chor Minor, part of Bukhara's World Heritage Center Explore Samarkand, brimming with history, the most romantic of the Silk Road cities Walk to iconic Registan Square with its colorful mosaics, blue domes and lofty arches Visit the Ulugbek Observatory, once the finest and most advanced in the Islamic world Tour Shah-i-Zinda, a necropolis of sparkling blue mausoleums grouped along medieval streets †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates. **CHECK VISA REQUIREMENTS:** [Uzbekistan Visa Requirements for American citizens in 2025](https://visarequirements.info/countries/united-states/uzbekistan/) **COST:** Land tour only: From $2199/pp Land and Air from NYC: From $3509/pp Single supplement $500 Deposit: Land Only $300/pp Final Payment Date: 1/22/2026 Email me asap at supra1214@aol.com if interested in getting booked and taking advantage of this sale. **HOW TO GET BOOKED AS PART OF OUR GROUP:** Email the following information to me at [Supra1214@aol.com](http://Supra1214@aol.com/) 1. Your full name as it appears in your passport 2. Mailing Address & Email Address 3. Phone Number 4. Date of Birth 5. Passport number and expiration date (must be valid for at least six months from departure date) 6. Type of room needed (single or double). If double, provide same info for your roommate as both must be booked at the same time 7. Your Emergency Contact Info (Name and phone number) 8. Signed credit card authorization (will email to you when I receive items 1-7) **PARTICIPATION IN THIS EVENT** Participants in this event should note the Liability Waiver in the PAGES section of this Meetup group. Please read it carefully. Members of this group are expected to conduct themselves in a way that is mindful and considerate of the health, safety, and welfare of themselves and other participants in any Active Friends Travel With Friends of the World Meetup activity. It is understood that you have voluntarily chosen to participate in this activity of your own free will. By joining this group and this activity, you agree to the Liability Waiver in the Pages section of this Meetup group.

Buddhist art is rich with beauty, symbolism, and deep meaning. From the sacred symbolism of the Eight Auspicious Symbols to the vivid imagery of the Wheel of Life and the peaceful presence of Buddha images, these traditional works of art offer more than aesthetic inspiration—they reveal a practical path to greater clarity, peace, and compassion that we can internalize and practice in our daily life. In this series, we’ll explore the symbolic meaning behind Kadampa Buddhist sacred art and discover how we can use this symbolism to illuminate our modern lives. Each session offers accessible explanations, guided meditation, and time for question and answer. **April 2nd:** Understanding Sacred Art **April 9th:** Meditating on the The Eight Auspicious Symbols I **April 16th:** Meditating on the The Eight Auspicious Symbols II **April 23rd:** The Wheel of Life: A Map of the Mind I **April 30th:** The Wheel of Life: A Map of the Mind II **REGISTRATION** Standard: $12 \| Financial Hardship: $6 \| Free for [Members](https://meditation-dc.org/membership/) [Pre-Register Here](https://meditation-dc.org/thursday-evenings/) Each class is available by drop in. Everyone is welcome to attend, no previous experience is required. **LOCATION** Kadampa Meditation Center DC 1200 Canal St\. SW \| Washington\, DC 20024 **Metro Stop:** Waterfront or Navy Yard

Join us for an unforgettable women’s journey through Portugal, where you’ll explore historic cities, taste incredible wines, and experience the country’s vibrant culture. From the charming streets of Lisbon to the scenic beauty of the Douro River Valley, this trip offers a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and connection. Enjoy hands-on experiences like a tile workshop in Lisbon and savor delicious local cuisine along the way. This **exclusive trip for women** promises to create lifelong memories and new friendships in one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations. ### Tour Pricing Includes * Airport Transfers (arrival and departure) * 4-star accommodations throughout the trip * Lisbon: 4 nights * Porto: 4 nights * Daily Breakfast * Private Guided Walking Tour of Lisbon * Hands-on Tile Workshop in Lisbon * Day trip to Évora with guided tour * Wine Tasting Experience at a local winery in Évora * Guided Tour of Sintra including Pena Palace * Transfer to Porto with stops in Óbidos and Nazaré * Lunch in Nazaré (included) * Guided Walking Food Tour in Porto * Douro River Valley Day Trip * Two wine tastings * Lunch (included) * Boat ride along the Douro River * Free Day in Porto to explore on your own * Private Transfers for all tours and activities * Farewell Airport Transfer on departure day ### Not Included In The Price * Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour that's not listed * Hotel fees paid directly to the hotel upon check out * Tips for tours and taxis * Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary * Any personal expenses or expenditures * Any pre- or post- tour arrangements * Any gratuities for the SG tour leader * Travel Insurance ### Payment Dates and Cancellation Penalty Amounts * A guaranteed deposit of $1000.00 per person is required at the time of booking. $300.00 is a non refundable deposit. Cancellations received prior to final payment will incur a loss of the non refundable deposit, plus any fees subject to the booking. **[SIGN ME UP](https://traveljoy.com/groups/dNnGaRCCVXG8mzT396eepS6f/forms/EofsJp9vX5ujkPAq9if1P7pM)**[ ](https://traveljoy.com/groups/dNnGaRCCVXG8mzT396eepS6f/forms/EofsJp9vX5ujkPAq9if1P7pM)

*12:00 - 1:30 PM EST Followed by slow session from 1:45 - 2:45 pm* Ever wanted to learn a Celtic tune? This is your chance! Celtic cellist Ellen Gira leads a monthly intro to Celtic repertoire class where students learn a groovy Celtic tune and create a fun arrangement as a group. This class will also offer ideas to take your playing further, including ornamentation and Celtic jamming skills. All instruments are welcome. Cost is $30. Afterwards, Ellen hosts a **Free Celtic Slow Session** that is open to players of all levels and all instruments. These classes and sessions will help prepare you to join the DMV’s thriving Celtic music community and play in sessions anywhere in the world! This class is open to middle school age students and above, who are able to play chords and/or basic melodies as appropriate for their instrument. Students under the age of 12, or who have questions about whether their skill level or instrument is appropriate for the class, should contact SMT prior to registration. Sheet music is provided and added to Ellen’s growing tune book: [Celtic Slow Session Tunes](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/101oWUnaTqOOdrrqjQnTEL8lK34dVIyTh?usp=sharing) *Jam Content/Repertoire examples:* * Jimmy Ward's (Irish Jig) * *Lochaber Badger (Scottish)* * *Mairi's Wedding (Scottish tune)* * *The Silver Spear (Irish reel)* * *Lisnagun (Irish jig)* * *Wild Mountain Thyme (Scots/Irish song)* $30 Register Here: https://checkout.square.site/buy/T4Q2LUUYFIHVTLLFWFSSQX2O See what else is going on: https://schoolofmusicaltraditions.com/classes-workshops

Join the Nordic Culture and Language Exchange Meetup Group at For Five Coffee Roasters Café, 901 K Street NW, Washington D.C. on Saturday, 25 April from 3-5pm. We’ll talk about some of the unique types of comedy found in Nordic culture, including folk humor/joke books, traveling musical comedy artists, the former Scandinavian Vaudeville circuit in America, and current Nordic comedians like Ismo from Finland, Pernille Haaland from Norway, Ari Eldjárn from Iceland, Casper Christensen from Denmark, and Petra Mede from Sweden. Then we’ll have conversation practice, where you are welcome to perform your own “tight five” (slang for 5 min comedy set) in Finnish, Norwegian, Icelandic, Swedish or Danish. Or you can simply read some jokes or discuss funny stories in your preferred Nordic language! After the Meetup event, we will attend an Icelandic comedy show (in English) at the nearby Eaton DC hotel. If interested in registering for free tickets to this Taste of Iceland DC event, please go to: https://www.inspiredbyiceland.com

Ok, we’re stepping slightly outside the philosophy for this one—but it’s worth it. Join us for the Hungarian Heritage Festival: great food (goulash, pastries, more), live music, folk dancing, and a relaxed, authentic vibe you don’t get at the usual crowded events. [Hungarian Heritage Festival, April 25, 2026](https://kossuthfoundation.org/events/hungarian-heritage-festival-april-25-2026/) It’s a bit beyond our usual range—but sometimes the best stuff is just outside the bubble. Come out, explore, and make a day of it.

Let us meet up for a language exchange. We will give out name tags. You write your name and what language you speak and what language you would like to exchange. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speaker\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\. ***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

Spring has spring, which means we're well on our way through the Firefly Foundations class series meant to provide students the opportunity to learn about the House and about our way of being Pagan. For the fourth class of our seven-class series, we'll cover what we do to try and keep our rituals interesting. If you attended the third class, doing those same steps in the same way over and over again might get a little stale over time. So, we try to mix things up, and this video discusses a bit of how we do that while still keeping things familiar enough that folks can feel comfortable with what's going on. When you RSVP for this class, you'll be asked to provide an email address. We'll send you a link to the class video at that address as soon as possible after we receive it. We keep won't share your email with anyone ever. Watch the video before the class date and time, and come to class with any questions you might have. During the class session, we'll be going over anything from the video you wanted to review, and after that we'll swap stories about rituals and ceremonies that we've enjoyed, things that feel short of our expectations, and maybe even things that went wildly beyond them! If you're comfortable with it, join us at the MLK Memorial Library in the Room 401-D to join the conversation in-person. Masks will be welcomed, but not provided, for in-person attendees. We will also have the necessary technology to allow folks to join in online via Google Meet if you prefer to attend remotely. Video conferencing information will be sent out the morning of the event. If you're connecting that way, please give us a few minutes past 3:30pm to get the stream online. This class is a part of our [foundations class series](https://docs.google.com/document/d/18-tA9ewEm1YEvY26jlWq07F2DT_-_HKwd-_wnl0l84g/edit?usp=sharing), which is only required if you wish to join the Firefly House as an initiate. If that does not interest you, then feel free to skip classes that you find less important for your journey. If you want to keep your options open with respect to initiation but cannot attend this session at the listed date and time, please contact the event host prior to the session. Keep in mind, you can only miss two of seven sessions in this way. Time spent with initiates of the House and your fellow classmates is an important part of knowing if you want to initiate. If you don't initiate, regardless of the reason, you're still welcome to all of the public events we organize. If you would like to, feel free to [join our Discord](https://discord.gg/RrS9XNzf9X) to chat with others in the Firefly House between sessions. This is also a great place to ask for help if you've lost a link to a video, for example. \*\*\* The Firefly House seeks to provide a friendly, safe environment in which all participants can engage in productive dialogue, sharing, and learning with each other in an atmosphere of mutual respect. We are committed to providing a harassment-free environment for all, regardless of gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body type, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact the host.

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."

**Pagans on the Patio! Summer/Fall Series** A casual gathering the first Thursday of each month. Time to relax, meet new people, and reconnect with old friends. There is no charge for the event itself and all are welcome but there are a few guidelines: 1. **You are expected to purchase food and/or drink to compensate the Cantina and our server.** 2. **No soliciting. Do not bring samples of your wares or brochures of your services.** 3. **Please respect the spiritual and political views of others that are present. No disruption of the peace.** In case of inclement weather, we will find seating indoors. I hope to see you there. Blessed be! \~ Cynthia ❤️---

*We can only take 13 women on this trip.* **The details...** Immerse yourself in the wild splendor of Scotland on this exclusive **women’s 8-day hiking** adventure. Misty moors, heather-clad hillsides, verdant glens, and ancient castles steeped in folklore will fill your camera roll by the end of this trip. ***Learn more about this all women journey here: [Highlands](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** **A guided adventure:** Guided by experienced locals, explore the untamed hills of Glencoe and the Cairngorms during invigorating day hikes. Each evening, unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, forging friendships and savoring Highland hospitality. This is more than a hiking trip. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland’s rich history and traditions. Learn about women-led crofts and take a loch plunge while wild swimming (followed by a steamy sauna). **What to expect...** * Hike in Scotland’s rugged Highlands and experience green Glencoe. * Visit a medieval castles and historic stone villages. * Soak up the history of Edinburgh’s city center. * Indulge in delicious and plentiful Scottish cuisine, including fresh seafood, local beer, and hearty breakfasts. * Traverse heather-clad landscapes while giving your body a good workout. (You must train for this trip.) * Enjoy restorative stays at beautiful hotels. **Wait, there's more...** * Bask in the beauty of the Cairngorms. * Hike with other Bold Spirit women who love to travel as much as you do. * Learn about rewilding and women-led crofting. * Shop along the cobblestone streets of Edinburgh. * Take the plunge into a loch for wild swimming and a shoreline sauna experience. * Stretch both your mind and hamstrings on this special journey. The best part? Our team **takes care of the logistics** so you can focus on enjoying a much needed vacation in beautiful Scotland. Are you ready to meet other women who love to hike and travel, plus see Scotland with professional guides? ***Learn more about this all women tour here: [2026 Hiking the Highlands Journey](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/hiking-highlands-scotland-2026)*** * Ask us questions here: [Tell me more about this trip](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact) * Learn about Bold Spirit Travel [here](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/about). * Rates start at $6195