フェスティバル

**The most enjoyable dance friending event on a Friday night 🌤️💃✨** This is an OPEN-AIR event! 🌤️ We dance outdoors, but we are always 100% rain-protected. The night starts at 7:00 PM with chill music, socializing, and basic footwork. If you want to level up your dancing, be there at 7pm sharp!! Later, we flow into casual dancing, mixing European classics (Waltz, Polka) with modern Balfolk and chill Latin vibes (Forró). ✅ **No experience needed** → Come at 7 PM sharp to learn the basics! 👣 ✅ **No partner needed** → We rotate! Feel free to ask anyone taking a break. 👋 ✅ **No dress code** → Wear comfy sneakers or go completely barefoot. 👟 ✅ **No pressure** → As long as you can sway to the rhythm, you belong! 🌟 ✅ **Free entry** → If you love the vibe, hit us with a 5-star review 🌟 or leave a contribution via QR code (suggested 200 CZK). If you love to move and want to make new friends, simply show up on Friday and let’s dance!! 💃🔥 *Tančírna (pronounced tahn-cheer-nah) comes from the Czech word "tančit" (to dance) and literally means "a place for dancing".* **Pro-tip:** Pack a water bottle to stay hydrated 💧 and a hoodie for when the sun goes down! After we wrap up we go to a restaurant/bar close by for chill socializing. 📍**LOGISTICS**: 6:50 pm - MEETING - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/rHMiVjy39jLu86k99](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rHMiVjy39jLu86k99) 7:00 pm - DANCING - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/vijrXJfBsrAo18Bi8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/vijrXJfBsrAo18Bi8) 9:00 pm- SOCIALIZING \-\-\- **Ta nejpohodovější taneční akce na páteční večer** 🌤️💃 ✨ Tančíme venku 🌤️ ale jsme vždycky 100% chráněni proti dešti. Večer začíná v 19:00 pohodovou hudbou a základními kroky. Pokud se chceš ve svém tanci posunout, buď tam přesně v 19:00!! Později plynule přejdeme do volného tance, kde mícháme evropské klasiky (valčík, polka) s moderním balfolkem a pohodovými latino rytmy (forró). ✅ **Zkušenosti nejsou potřeba** → Přijď přesně v 19:00 a nauč se základy! 👣 ✅ **Nepotřebuješ partnera** → Střídáme se! Neboj se vyzvat kohokoliv, kdo si zrovna dává pauzu. 👋 ✅ **Žádný dress code** → Vezmi si pohodlné tenisky, nebo klidně tanči úplně naboso. 👟 ✅ **Žádný tlak** → Dokud se dokážeš pohupovat do rytmu, zapadneš k nám! 🌟 ✅ **Vstup zdarma** → Pokud tě akce bavila, hoď nám 5hvězdičkové hodnocení 🌟 nebo nám můžeš přispět přes QR kód (doporučený příspěvek je 200 Kč). Pokud se rád/a hýbeš a chceš poznat nové lidi, prostě se v pátek ukaž a jdeme tančit!! 💃🔥 *'* **Pro-tip:** Přibal si s sebou láhev s vodou na doplnění tekutin 💧 a mikinu, až zapadne slunce! Až dotančíme, přesuneme se do nedaleké restaurace/baru na pohodový pokec. 📍LOGISTIKA: 18:50 - SRAZ - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/rHMiVjy39jLu86k99](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rHMiVjy39jLu86k99) 19:00 - TANČÍRNA - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/vijrXJfBsrAo18Bi8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/vijrXJfBsrAo18Bi8) 21:00 - DRINK

Looking to meet new people in Prague and play badminton in a relaxed atmosphere? Join our social badminton event – perfect for meeting people and having fun while playing. 🏸 All levels welcome 🏸 No experience needed 🏸 We mix players so everyone gets a game This is not a competitive tournament – the focus is on socializing and enjoying the game. 📍 Location: Badminton Aréna Skalka 🕒 Time: 20:00–23:00 💰 Price: 350 CZK / 250 CZK with Multisport Spots are limited. 👉 Reserve your spot here: [https://www.bananasport.cz/sportovni-udalost/14](https://www.bananasport.cz/sportovni-udalost/14)

Some people go to pubs. Some people conquer galaxies, build empires, trade spices, or outsmart dragons. Nerdy Fridays are our open board game nights for anyone who prefers strategy over small talk and dice over disco lights. Come solo or bring your crew. We’ll help you find a table, explain the rules, and match you with a game that fits your vibe. From light party games to deep strategic battles, the shelves are open. Entry fee: 50 CZK if you drink something, 100 CZK if not (includes access to games and rule explanation) Friday nights don’t have to be loud. They can be legendary. 🎲✨

Sing for yourself, Sing for someone, Sing for the moment 🙂Choose your song & let your bathroom artist out :D coz everyone can sing... 👉 Every Friday, we welcome you to join our International Karaoke Nights. Singing or not singing, we guarantee you a lot of fun, making new friends, and meeting international people. 🏅We organise the biggest social events in the Czech Republic where you enjoy amazing cocktails and a variety of drinks, with happy hours waiting for you. 📍LOCATION Tequila Tales Bar & Music Club Újezd 19 118 00 Prague, Czech Republic (Nearest tram stop- Hellichova & Ujezd) ❓Questions❓ Write to https://www.instagram.com/tequilatales_prg/

Hola tod@s! Tenemos otra reunion este viernes en el Pivni Bar! Sois muy bienvenidos!

This is not a typical club night — and not a standard party format. This is our Signature BIG EDITION experience. **Coming as a female? Enter promocode FEMALE to buy the ticket only for 15 EUR.** An immersive evening where music, atmosphere, performances and human connection come together in a unique way — without pressure, expectations or fixed roles. Across multiple floors and spaces, the night unfolds naturally: • a dance floor with house & techno • curated artistic performances • interactive elements and guided experiences • spaces to talk, observe, connect — or simply stay present You decide how far you want to go. Nothing is expected. Everything is based on respect and personal boundaries. Throughout the night, different moments will happen — not just on stage, but around you. This is a dynamic experience that evolves over time, allowing you to explore at your own pace. More than just music. More than just a night out. **Coming as a female? Enter promocode FEMALE to buy the ticket only for 15 EUR.** *** ### **🔐 Experience & Atmosphere** We focus on creating an environment where people feel comfortable, open and free to be themselves. To support communication and comfort, we use a simple color bracelet system: • Red — prefer not to engage • Yellow — open but cautious • Green — open to interaction This helps everyone navigate the night with clarity and respect. *** ### **🎭 What to expect** • high-quality DJs (house & techno) • curated performances and artistic moments • a well-balanced, international crowd • hosts and awareness team present all night • thoughtfully designed spaces for different moods This event is for people looking for something beyond a typical party — a place to connect, explore vibes and meet fellow open minded people in a safe atmosphere. *** ### **👗 Dress Code** • bold, expressive, creative looks • outfits that go beyond regular clubwear • no casual clothing (no jeans, sportswear, or standard outfits) This is a space where self-expression matters. *** ### **🤝 House Rules** • Respect the space and each other • Personal boundaries are essential • Always ask before engaging with others • No photos or videos in sensitive areas • Follow the dress code • Disrespectful or disruptive behavior is not tolerated Our team is present throughout the event to support safety, comfort, and the overall experience. *** Join us if you’re looking for something deeper than a typical night out.

Who can attend this meetup: The tour is an introduction to Prague and is mainly for expats and visitors to our city but everybody who would like to join is invited. ***Important***, please also fill in the booking form on our [website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) if you are planning to come (otherwise we will not expect you). Description: Meet us by the Powder Tower, the historical gate to the Old Town and starting point of the Royal Route. Then have an educative walk through the narrow and picturesque streets of the historical center of Prague. Enjoy the unique diversity of architectural styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau. See some of the most interesting sites and get to know fascinating facts and legends of the 1000-year old capital of Bohemia. End the tour at the riverside 5 minutes away from the Charles Bridge, from which you can continue the tour on your own (or again with us) towards Malá Strana or Prague Castle. ====== Meeting point: We will be standing by the Powder Tower at the side of the Namestí Republiky square with a green umbrella in hand :) Map: https://goo.gl/maps/tzqKpZ2945S2 Price: there is no fixed price, you will be able to decide yourself how much you value the tour. If you don't know how much is best (and can afford it) we recommend 200Kč, but it really depends on you how much you contribute. Join us also on our [Facebook profile](https://www.facebook.com/freewalkingtoursprague/) :) and if you are travelling to other cities check out our friends at the [Free Tour Community website](https://freetourcommunity.com/). For any questions, please contact us at info@freewalkingtourprague.eu. Unfortunately, the meetup application does not always send us phone notifications. Reminder - only people who booked on our [official free walking tour website](https://freewalkingtourprague.eu/en/schedule) can join the tour and if the tour shows fully booked on the website it means there are no free spots. The meetup list doesn't count in this case. We look forward to meeting you, Michal, Amanda, Lana, Iva & Chris

Put your Badminton shoes on and join Racketmania, we’re hosting a fun, balanced badminton session at **Hector Sports Centrum, Prague** for players of similar skill levels. It's the perfect chance to rally, compete, and meet local players. Also enjoy the amazing garden restaurant. 🗓 Event Details * **Date:** Saturday, May 30, 2026 * **Time:** 11:00 - 13:00 * **Location:** Hector- Sport Centre and restaurant, Malešická 655/59c, 108 00 Praha 10-Malešice * **Spots Available:** 10-12 players 💸 Payment & Costs The court fee will be divided equally among all attending participants at the end of the session. You can pay your share directly at the Hector Sport Centre reception. * *Note: If you need gear, badminton rackets are available to rent at the reception for 50 Kč (with a 200 Kč refundable deposit).* 🏸 What to Expect This event is focused on keeping things fun, engaging, and welcoming! We will organize the games so that participants are matched by similar skill levels, ensuring great rallies and enjoyable matches for everyone. **Important:** Please RSVP to secure your spot. If your plans change, update your RSVP promptly so others on the waitlist can join! We can’t wait to see you on the court!

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **This is a curated, small-group meetup make new friends in Prague.** Each meetup brings together 4–6 like-minded people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to organize and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com](https://groupvibe.com) Once you register, and **buy a ticket or become a Groupvibe member**, we’ll share the exact location and match you with your group. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier \* Matching helps avoid awkward dynamics **Note:** RSVPs here on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. This meetup is organized by **Groupvibe**, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

\~FREE EVENT\~ (Tips are welcome) Přejděte dolů na český jazyk 🇬🇧. Event Concept? 👉 Czech & Expats people can share their languages and socialize. For introverts and shy people (we all are sometimes), we have ice-breaking games and more... so feel free to come by. It is a very friendly event to meet people around the world🙂 By the time you make new friends in the meetup, our after party starts :) 🏅It is the BIGGEST, Oldest & the Only Free Language Exchange Event in the Czech Republic 🥰 (with 103 people) --> Can i Come to the Event if my English or other language is bad😔? ☺YESS! your language level does not matter. You can also make friends. 🇨🇿Can Czech People also come? Ofcourse! Everyone is invited --> How does it work? Dev (organiser) will give you the Sticker and will write your NAME & LANGUAGE you speak & want to exchange. Then you can join the Table of that language or meet the person of your language & make friends concurrently. (If you still don't understand, he will explain to you at the venue) 🙂 📍LOCATION Tequila Tales Bar & Music Club Újezd 19 118 00 Prague, Czech Republic (Nearest tram stop- Hellichova & Ujezd) 🫡Do I need a Reservation? No, Feel free to bring your friends 🤔Can I come late? Its better if you come on time so you can meet maximum people. ❓Questions❓ Write to +420 703 971 515 (call/ whatsapp) https://www.instagram.com/tequilatales_prg/ \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* \~AKCE ZDARMA\~ (Tipy jsou vítány) Přejděte dolů na český jazyk 🇬🇧. Koncept akce? 👉 Češi a cizinci mohou sdílet své jazyky a socializovat se. Pro introverty a stydlivé lidi (všichni jsme někdy) máme hry na lámání ledu a další... tak neváhejte a přijďte. Je to velmi přátelská událost k setkání s lidmi po celém světě🙂 🏅Je to NEJVĚTŠÍ, nejstarší a jediná bezplatná jazyková výměnná akce v České republice (s 103 lidmi) --> Mohu přijít na událost, když moje angličtina nebo jiný jazyk je špatný😔? ☺ANO! na vaší jazykové úrovni nezáleží. Můžete se také spřátelit. 🇨🇿Můžou přijít i Češi? Samozřejmě! Všichni jsou zváni --> Jak to funguje? Dev (organizátor) vám dá nálepku a napíše vaše JMÉNO A JAZYK, kterým mluvíte a chcete si je vyměnit. Pak se můžete připojit ke stolu tohoto jazyka nebo se setkat s osobou vašeho jazyka a zároveň se spřátelit. (Pokud stále nerozumíte, vysvětlí vám to na místě konání) 🙂 📍 POLOHA Tequila Tales Bar & Music Club Újezd 19 118 00 Prague, Czech Republic (Nearest tram stop- Hellichova & Ujezd) Potřebuji rezervaci? Ne, klidně vezměte své přátele 🤔 Můžu přijít pozdě? Je lepší přijít včas, abyste mohli potkat maximum lidí. ❓Otázky❓ Napište našemu +420 703 971 515 (call/ whatsapp) https://www.instagram.com/tequilatales_prg/

Looking to expand your circle, share some laughs, and fuel your day with some good nutrition in the city? **You've found your crew.** We are a community built around good energy, healthy habits, and amazing connections. Whether you're a local entrepreneur, a fitness enthusiast, or just new to Prague looking to meet like-minded people, this group is your new go-to spot for blending socializing with serious flavor. **What We're About:** Premium Fuel: Exclusive meetups centered around the signature protein smoothies, acai bowls, and fresh bites at Superfresh. **Meaningful Connections**: A relaxed, welcoming environment to network, make new friends, and share ideas. **Central Hangouts:** Conveniently meeting up right at Lazarská 5 (Superfresh) easy to get to, and the perfect starting point for the rest of your day. Grab a smoothie, pull up a chair, and let's build a community that feels as good as it tastes. See you at the next meetup!

**The Most Chill Speed Friending Event in Town 😎✨** Expand your social circle like eating tapas: bite-sized, fresh, and absolutely zero pressure. 👋 Tapas Topics is built for people who value smaller social circles, natural connections, and a well-structured evening. Get a feel for up to 6 new people a night without going too deep, too fast. We do the heavy lifting for you so you can simply enjoy the freedom of meeting new people with ease. ✅ **Short Rotations** → You get around 10 minutes per person. It's the perfect amount of time to see if you click, with an automatic escape hatch to keep everything light and fresh. ✅ **300+ Digital Icebreakers**→ You can wing conversations naturally or simply tap into our app's "conversation menu" for a fresh new topic anytime you want. ✅ **Clear Structure** → No awkward standing around wondering how to start. Everyone gets a comfortable seat, a clear rotation, and a guaranteed chat with lovely people. 🔥 **THE BETA TEST** We are perfecting our custom app and rotation flow before transitioning to a paid model. Entry is 100% FREE until the end of June! All we ask in return is your candid feedback afterward. 🙌 🕒 **SCHEDULE** 17:35 - Doors open: Arrive early, grab a drink, and open our web app. (**Walk through the restaurant to the OPEN ATRIUM on the right**) 17:45 - The Clock starts! ⏱️ 19:00 - Wrapping up 19:30 - Afterparty 👉 **The Afterparty**: Once we wrap up, we transition into our famous social mixer, The Bar Nomads, right close by. Grab a drink and dive deeper with the people you clicked with (Free entry!). 🍹 👉 **Contacts:** We keep it organic. No automated matching systems here—just ask for their details directly at the afterparty! 💡 **Good to Know:** The event is hosted in English. It's relaxed, cozy, and open to both expats and locals. Just come as you are! *Note: By attending, you consent to being photographed (casual snapshots during the event and a group selfie at the end).*

**The Easiest room to walk into on a Saturday night** 🤩🌍 We are a welcoming, high-energy tribe of locals, newcomers, and expats alike. Half the room is our stable core, the other is always brand new! We skip the awkward small talk and go straight for REAL connections ✨, naturally transitioning into a great party 🤩 later on. Our rules are simple: No pressure, no city masks, and absolutely no standing alone. Just grab a drink 🍹 and jump right in. You’ll leave feeling energized, connected, and a little bit more like a true Praguer. 😎🤙 👉 If you want to dive deeper, just show up and JOIN our LOCAL WhatsApp community of 250+ Praguers!

Looking to meet new people and enjoy a relaxed day full of board games? Join us at Palmovka for a cozy board-gaming meet-up open to everyone — beginners, casual players, and experienced gamers! We have a big selection of games, from easy social titles to strategic favourites. You can come alone or with friends — our community is super friendly, and we always make sure nobody sits alone. Don’t worry if you don’t know the rules — we’ll happily explain everything. ✔ Friendly atmosphere ✔ Lots of games to choose from ✔ Perfect for meeting new people ✔ Come anytime during the day ✔ No registration needed entry fee 50czk (no hour limit) if you do not order anything at bar it is 100czk. Whether you want to laugh, think, or just relax after a long day, this is the perfect place to unwind and connect with others. See you at Palmovka – let’s play!

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

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B 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.

**The Behavior Gap: Where Products Win or Lose** Teams today have more data than ever, and yet many still struggle to understand why customers adopt, engage with, or abandon their products. Teams sprint, ship faster, and chase more signals… all while metrics stall and confidence drops. The missing piece isn’t more data. It’s often the behavioral insight between the metrics, explaining why the numbers move in the first place. Dashboards can tell you what customers did, but understanding why they did it (and how to influence what they do next) requires a deeper blend of insights. This session is about closing that gap. Drawing from real-world experience designing and scaling products as [ZoCo Design](https://zocodesign.com/)’s CEO, [Lacey](https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceypicazo/) will share how to cut through the noise and identify the insights that actually change behavior—moving people, and moving metrics. You’ll learn: * Why understanding customer behavior is a quant and qual challenge * How to spot the signals that actually predict behavior change * Where AI accelerates insight, and where it creates distraction * How to get meaningfully closer to customers, without adding more tools This talk reframes how to evaluate performance and identify what levers actually improve it, helping your team to make smarter bets with greater confidence. Every meaningful outcome is driven by behavior change. And when you know how to design for behavior, you stop guessing, and start building things that work. **About Our Speaker** [Lacey Picazo](https://www.linkedin.com/in/laceypicazo/) is the Founder and CEO of ZoCo, a healthcare product studio that turns complex, high-stakes ideas into products that drive real-world adoption. She partners with healthcare organizations to uncover critical care delivery insights, focus product strategy through behavior design, and build solutions that patients and providers actually use. Thanks to our 2026 sponsors: [Clarivoy](https://www.clarivoy.com), [What Box Consulting Group](https://www.whatboxconsultinggroup.com), [Conductrics](https://www.conductrics.com), and [Piwik PRO](https://piwik.pro) More info at [cbusdaw.com](https://cbusdaw.com)

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

QA or the Highway is a one-day, affordable, regional, professional conference featuring real-world experience and thought leadership in the QA and testing industry. This is a ticketed event please register here: https://www.qaorthehwy.com/ Featured Keynote Speakers: **Matthew-Hope Eland** **(Wizard at Leading EDJE)** \- An AI Specialist and Wizard at Leading EDJE who is known to teach software engineering\, AI\, and data science concepts in the most ridiculous ways possible\. Matt has used machine learning to settle debates over whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie\, reinforcement learning to drive the behavior of digital squirrels\, data analytics to suggest improvements to his favorite TV show\, and AI agents to play board games and create an AI agent with the personality of a dog\. Matt is the author of "Data Science in \.NET with Polyglot Notebooks" and "Refactoring with C\#" as well as several LinkedIn Learning courses\. Matt helps organize the Central Ohio \.NET Developer Group\, runs several blogs and a YouTube channel\, has a Master’s of Science in Data Analytics\, and is a current Microsoft MVP in AI and \.NET\. **Tatyana Arbouzova** **(CEO at Innovate QA)** \- Tatyana Arbouzova is an engineering and business leader with a strong background in Quality Engineering across multiple industries\, including Big Tech\, Healthcare\, and Entertainment\. She has held leadership roles at world\-class companies such as Microsoft\, VMware\, Disney\, and The Pokémon Company International\, where she focused on building quality\-driven cultures and scaling teams to deliver high\-impact products\. With decades of experience\, Tatyana has helped organizations transform their quality practices so teams can deliver software efficiently\, confidently\, and with measurable business outcomes\. Today\, Tatyana advises software companies on adopting AI to optimize quality practices and improve how software is delivered at scale\. She is also a passionate community builder and the founder of Innovate QA\, a thriving Seattle\-based community and conference for quality professionals\.

Topic to be announced. **THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/ **DIRECTIONS** Franklin University Fisher Hall 300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8 Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map. NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct. **Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?** Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com