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Columbus Code & Coffee 83 @ Improving
Columbus Code & Coffee 83 @ Improving
Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!
Jigsaw Puzzle Day
Jigsaw Puzzle Day
Columbus Animal Advocates January Social!
Columbus Animal Advocates January Social!
Join us Saturday, 1/31 from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm for an evening at The Cozy at Portia’s Café. Come learn about this local, grassroots animal rights organization and our current campaigns. Whether you want to do more for animals or simply meet other activists and vegans, this is the place for you. Bring your friends — all animal lovers are welcome. Enjoy games, socializing, and meaningful connections with fellow vegans and animal advocates. Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Feel free to purchase food from Portia’s if you’d like — it’s completely optional. Location: Portia’s Café 3083 Indianola Ave, Columbus, OH 43202 The Cozy is located right next door.
Arts and Crafts Day
Arts and Crafts Day
Thirsty Thursday at Rude Dog
Thirsty Thursday at Rude Dog
Celebrate Margarita Day!
Celebrate Margarita Day!
**It's National Margarita Day!** Let's throw off our winter blahs and bask in the delight of margaritas and mexican food! We'll find a good spot...or, two to gather for drink specials, food and fiesta. [El Vaquero](https://www.vaquerorestaurant.com/menus) on Rte 161 Dublin has a huge bar area where we'll meet. Those wanting to sit down and eat dinner can grab a seat at our reserved table. Those just there for margs and chips n salsa can hang out in the bar. Their wonderful ***Happy Hour lasts til 8pm every night - Jumbo Margarita $9.99 Flavor $10.99!***
Love From The Earth | Vegan Pop Up
Love From The Earth | Vegan Pop Up
Start the year surrounded by Love From the Earth—with delicious vegan eats, sweet treats, artisan goods, and a chance to win one of our raffle baskets filled with plant-based goodies. Support small businesses, enjoy great food, and spend a cozy day with the community. We will reserve a table for this group if there is enough interest. Just comment "interest" below. Don’t miss out—see you there! Check [event page](https://www.facebook.com/events/893838639773267/) for a vendor list.
 FREE Pizza Social at our KIND MEALS meeting at Mikey's Late Night Slice!
FREE Pizza Social at our KIND MEALS meeting at Mikey's Late Night Slice!
Our group, KIND MEALS, will be picking up the tab for pizzas, at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT SLICE, on Sunday, February 8th from 12-2pm. We will be trying out MIKEY'S Vegan Fake-ass BBQ Chick'n pizza and Vegan Fake-ass Pepperoni pizza, as well as some other special vegan pizzas that are served there. All the vegan pizzas are covered with Selfish Cow vegan cheese. The pizza is free, drinks on your own. Join us to learn more about **[KIND MEALS](https://kindmealscolumbus.org)** (a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Cols. Ohio, providing hunger relief services to those in need). All of the food we serve is fresh and vegan! If you love working with community, being of service, looking to hang with some fun like-minded people, and just love to socialize on a Sunday afternoon, join us for some FREE vegan pizzas at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT on 4th and Main. Mikey said the more the merrier!
Comedy Night + Open Mic
Comedy Night + Open Mic
**Comedy Night + Open Mic + Freestyle**: We've hired a professional comedian to warm the group up for our open mic session. Members have been making me laugh for years and we've tossed around the idea of a comedy night / open mic. Well, It's time to step up and crack me up. We'll start with Tristan Shae and a couple of his friends. Tristan is an alternative comic from Columbus, Ohio. A counselor by day, Tristan explores how comedy can improve mental health by telling jokes and stories that muse on how absurd life can be from squeaky clean topics to not so clean ones. Tristan produces the variety show Cheaper Than Therapy, hosts the weekly Problem Child Alt Comedy Open Mic at The Attic, and can be found engaging in all sorts of silliness around the city from stand up shows at The Nest Theater, The Attic, or The Funny Bone, to improv and sketch shows with various groups at various venues such as The Hashtag Comedy Club. **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*
Join us to celebrate Monster Baby Donuts new brick and mortar vegan restaurant
Join us to celebrate Monster Baby Donuts new brick and mortar vegan restaurant
🎉 You’re Invited! 🍩 Join Columbus Vegan Meetup for a fun community gathering at Monster Baby Donuts, a vegan, peanut & gluten-free, local family-owned business that just opened their new storefront! They started as a beloved food truck, and now they have a permanent location. 📍 700 Bryden Rd, Columbus, OH 43205 🗓 Saturday, January 31 ⏰ 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Come enjoy amazing donuts, meet other vegans, and help grow our community with people who share your values. It’s a great opportunity to connect, support a local vegan business, and have a good time. 🥪🥗 The shop also has ready-to-go sandwiches and salads. 🚗 Ample parking in the back. Everyone is welcome — see you there! 🌱💚
Morning people unite!! 🐤 ☕ + 💬 @ Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville
Morning people unite!! 🐤 ☕ + 💬 @ Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville
Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!
Freestyle + Games
Freestyle + Games
**Games**: Bring your favorite game to play with others or join in with a game that someone else brought. Board games. Card games. Please, no axe throwing games or other blood sports. It's not that I'm opposed to such things, it's just that clean up could be a mess and my First Aid certification is long expired. (POST here in the comments what game you are bringing. Let us know what you're good at and what you want to play...) **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*
Let's Fondue!
Let's Fondue!
Yes, the [Chocolate Café](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/menu-1?menu=signature-desserts) serves chocolate fondue *(Chocolate Fondue Day is Feb 5th)*! No one does chocolate fondue like they do. It's rich, creamy, and served with an array of fresh fruit and other dipping items. They encourage making it a party! A perfect winter warmup to share with friends! **Chocolate Fondue Kit:** Served with dippers, including marshmallows, Rice Krispie treats, graham crackers, pound cake, strawberries, and pretzels. **COST**: Bring ***$5.00 cash*** to cover your portion of our delightful dessert bar. **EARLY ARRIVALS**: Go ahead and order dinner (before dessert). I love their toasted sandwiches and their soups. **PARKING**: In our parking lot, on the street (but not between 4-6 pm) or behind the Buckeye State Building. [Chocolate Cafe](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/): A fully stocked amount of *chocolate candies* including truffles, chocolate covered pretzels and chocolate and caramel turtles. We have menu options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Join us for brunch or a late night meal. Soups, salads & sandwiches served daily. Check out our [menu](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/_files/ugd/7ea733_0ebab62dcfc0435aa189b6d1a3c3ec82.pdf) for more information. We also offer wine, martinis and cocktails! Enjoy a *famous chocolate martini* or hand crafted cocktail, too!
Sunday Morning Coffee at Fox in the Snow Cafe (Dublin)
Sunday Morning Coffee at Fox in the Snow Cafe (Dublin)
Coffee and conversation at [Fox in the Snow Cafe](https://www.foxinthesnow.com/) in Dublin.
The Avenue Steak Tavern
The Avenue Steak Tavern
For our next dinner event, Avenue Steak Tavern in Dublin, Ohio! A few friends have been raving about the great food and super friendly service, so it’s time for us to see what the hype is about. Come hungry, bring your best conversation, and get ready for a night of good vibes and even better meals. 🍽️🥩
Celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day!
Celebrate National Hot Chocolate Day!
**MEET FOR DESSERT**: Since it's cold outside, let's meet for warm chocolate inside! Hot chocolate and warm chocolate fondue (chocolate fondue day is Feb 5th) are offered at this cafe filled with the smell of chocolate! *The hot chocolate at Chocolate Cafe is arguably the best hot chocolate you will ever have.* They have a huge variety, including Hot Chocolate, Dark Hot Chocolate (my fave), White Hot Chocolate, as well as specialty hot chocolates, including Cherry Jubilee, LaSalle Mint, Caramel, Mexican, Kaffee Wien, Peanut Butter, Nutella, and Butterscotch. **EARLY ARRIVALS**: Go ahead and order dinner (before dessert). I love their toasted sandwiches and their soups. **PARKING**: In our parking lot, on the street (but not between 4-6 pm) or behind the Buckeye State Building. [Chocolate Cafe](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/): A fully stocked amount of *chocolate candies* including truffles, chocolate covered pretzels and chocolate and caramel turtles. We have menu options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Join us for brunch or a late night meal. Soups, salads & sandwiches served daily. Check out our [menu](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/_files/ugd/7ea733_0ebab62dcfc0435aa189b6d1a3c3ec82.pdf) for more information. We also offer wine, martinis and cocktails! Enjoy a *famous chocolate martini* or hand crafted cocktail, too!
Happy Hour Club
Happy Hour Club
Yarn Social at Northwest Library
Yarn Social at Northwest Library
If you enjoy knitting, crocheting, working with yarn, this is the group for you. Meet new friends, bring your projects, learn from others.
We normally meet a few times a month during the week from 6:30-8:30pm. We will occasionally meet on weekends during daytime hours. *extended hours on this one 1-5pm feel free stop by anytime or stay the whole time- no pressure on timing.
Pickleball.
Pickleball.
CHANGED to WEDNESDAYS COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available. I have some extra pickle ball paddles and balls if you don’t have one. Definitely bring your own paddle if you have one and bring some balls if you have them. Legal Stuff: The event hosts/Organizers are just fellow member volunteers. By participating in any event, you assume all risks of liability and injury inherent in these activities. You are responsible for your own safety and for determining if you are in condition fit to participate. You are also responsible for knowing and abiding by all laws and rules during your participation in any event.
 Photos & or Video: by attending these events you acknowledge photos and or video may be taken and used on this and other platforms.
First Fridays - Happy Hour
First Fridays - Happy Hour
Join the Columbus Ski Club for a First Friday Happy Hour! If you're new in town or just looking to socialize, this is the event for you. Connect with fellow sports enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers while sharing travel stories and tips for the best ski slopes or hiking trails. Contact: Herb Beidel, 614 -619-7808 [Dec_2025_CSC_Track Newsletter.pdf]() CSC Membership not required for happy hour!
Friendly Feud at SmashPark
Friendly Feud at SmashPark
Social and Bike Ride Planning Meeting
Social and Bike Ride Planning Meeting
Trivia at Smash Park
Trivia at Smash Park

Upcoming online events

Lexicon by Max Barry
Lexicon by Max Barry
Discuss the book and chat! After discussion, we will pick the book for next month and then offer up recommendations on things that we've seen, listened, watched, and upcoming events of interest.
Discuss Chasm City by Alastair Reynolds
Discuss Chasm City by Alastair Reynolds
Discuss the book and chat! After discussion, we will pick the book for next month and then offer up recommendations on things that we've seen, listened, watched, and upcoming events of interest.
Secret LinkedIn Algorithm Hacks to Dominate in 2026!
Secret LinkedIn Algorithm Hacks to Dominate in 2026!
Ever feel like your LinkedIn posts deserve way more attention than they get? You’re not alone and the secret isn’t posting more. It’s understanding how the LinkedIn algorithm really works in 2026. **Date & Time: Wednesday\, January 28\, 2026 \| 2PM ET** **Registration Link: [https://bit.ly/3N2VJNE](https://bit.ly/3N2VJNE)** In this eye-opening webinar, we will pull back the curtain on the latest LinkedIn algorithm updates, revealing what’s driving visibility this year and what’s quietly killing your reach. You’ll learn exactly how to use AI tools, engagement timing, content structure, and data-backed optimization tactics to boost your impressions, comments, and connections without gaming the system. In this client-focused webinar, you'll gain: * Discover the newest 2026 algorithm changes LinkedIn isn’t talking about * Learn the 5 engagement signals that determine who actually sees your posts * How to use AI to analyze and adapt your content for maximum reach * The secret posting formats (polls, carousels, native video) that trigger more visibility * Real data on what’s working for top creators and how to replicate it Joe has trained thousands of professionals on how to build visibility, engagement, and influence on LinkedIn using authentic communication and AI-powered insights. He’s also the creator of evyAI, the smart assistant that helps you write personalized comments, posts, and DMs that convert. Don’t let the LinkedIn algorithm hold you back in 2026. Join us on this session and learn the insider tactics to dominate your feed and turn visibility into real results. [SAVE YOUR SPOT NOW!](https://bit.ly/3N2VJNE)
MEGA MIXER – The Ultimate Online Singles Event!
MEGA MIXER – The Ultimate Online Singles Event!
**You must sign up here:** [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio) 20 speed-dating rounds - Fun interactive games - $3,000 in Amazon Gift Cards! **Why You Can’t Miss This:** **🎉 More singles, better matches –** Double the dates, double the fun! **💰 Win big –** Spin-the-Wheel, Quick Draw & surprise giveaways. **🤖 AI Matchmaker Boost –** Smarter matches with every convo. **✨ AI Matchmaker ✨** Meet singles across the region and speed date those closest to you. As you date, AI Matchmaker learns your romantic traits and preferences. Once unlocked, it finds you the most compatible local matches from the zillions already on Couple. **Limited spots available.** **Sign up here:** [https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio](https://couple.com/speed-dating-events/?r=meetupohio)
Dayton Microcomputer Association Genealogy SIG - Online only.
Dayton Microcomputer Association Genealogy SIG - Online only.
The Dayton Microcomputer Association will be restarting our Genealogy Special Interest Group. All meetings will be online only to start. We will discuss how computers aid tracing your family history and other topics. If you have any suggestions use the "Contact Us" page at dma1.org. We will be online from 6:30 to 8:30 using Zoom.G
Civic Engagement: How Do You Get Involved?
Civic Engagement: How Do You Get Involved?
People contribute to their communities and country in many ways — some vote, volunteer, attend meetings, donate, speak out, or stay informed. Others participate through conversations, advocacy, supporting organizations they believe in, or helping neighbors. Civic engagement doesn’t look the same for everyone, and not all forms of participation are loud, visible, or widely recognized. At this conversation, we’ll explore the different ways people stay involved, what civic engagement means to each of us personally, and how we choose the actions that align with our values, priorities, and capacity. We’ll ask questions such as: * In what ways do you participate in shaping your community or country? * What does civic engagement mean to you in your daily life? * How do you decide where to put your time, energy, or attention? * What forms of engagement do you wish were more valued or more accessible? This will be a chance to compare experiences, learn from one another, and reflect on how civic participation shows up in diverse and meaningful ways. Please do your best to arrive at the beginning of the meeting – once we are in breakout rooms and the conversations have started, the meeting doors close to new arrivals. The breakout rooms open (and the doors close) approximately 15 minutes after the hour. We would love to hear your thoughts on our social media pages. Don't miss topic announcements, updates, news! **Follow us on:** * **Instagram @crossingpartylines** * **Twitter @crosspartylines** * **Facebook @crossingpartylines**
⭐ Overcoming Social Anxiety to Become Confident in Yourself!
⭐ Overcoming Social Anxiety to Become Confident in Yourself!
Do you get anxious when talking to people — or even thinking about it? Do your thoughts race with worries about being judged, rejected, or not “good enough”? You’re not alone — and you’re not broken. Social anxiety is incredibly common, and it can make even simple conversations feel overwhelming. This workshop is a calm, supportive space where you can understand *why* this happens and what you can do to feel more comfortable around people. *** ### ⭐ In this free online event, we’ll gently explore: * Why social anxiety shows up even when you *want* to connect * Where those fears and insecure thoughts come from * Why your mind jumps to worst-case scenarios * Why it feels so hard to introduce yourself or start conversations * Simple steps to feel more relaxed when talking to people You won’t be asked to speak unless you want to. You can attend with your camera off. Just come, listen, and take what helps you. *** ### ⭐ This workshop is perfect if you: * Avoid conversations because you’re afraid of judgment * Worry you’re “not good enough” or don’t know what to say * Feel anxious when meeting new people * Struggle to connect in relationships * Want to feel more confident socially If social anxiety has held you back, this event can help you understand what’s happening inside your mind — and how to take the pressure off yourself. *** Come join us for a relaxed, supportive hour where you can learn at your own pace. This Meetup is sponsored by the **Dianetics & Scientology Life Improvement Center.** 📌 Adults 18\+ \| Free Online Event
Lunch + Beginners Game Night!
Lunch + Beginners Game Night!
Don’t eat lunch alone! If you work from home, are a stay-at-home parent, or are under house arrest :D join us on a Ludio call for some casual conversation and lighthearted games. Ludio ([https://ludio.gg](https://ludio.gg/)) is a videoconferencing platform with games built directly into it. We play all sorts of card games, word games, drawing games, bluffing games, trivia games, party games, and more - all of them are easy to learn, quick to play, and very social. An experienced host will teach you all the games - and keep the event fun and safe! We advertise this event in multiple groups and many of our regulars don’t RSVP anymore. RSVPs are not indicative of how many people will show up - we get a consistent turnout of 5-10 people. Requirements: * You will need a computer OR a tablet (no phones, sorry) * You need to use a Chromium-based browser (e.g. Google Chrome) * You will need a microphone to participate in the games … cameras are optional but highly encouraged
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Find your people

Tips for using Meetup
to meet new friends

There’s nothing like sharing an interest to help spark a friendship. Here’s how to use Meetup to meet new friends.

1

Find events and join groups for your interests by searching on Meetup. Try topics like “pickleball,” “book clubs,” “hiking,” or “board games.”

2

Make a commitment to attend at least one event a week.

3

At the Meetup event, start conversations with people you meet. Remember, they’re there to meet people too. If you’re shy, try a few of these ice-breaking techniques.

4

Repeat the experience by attending more events from the same group. Friendship takes time. Get to know your Meetup community and friendship will follow.

Read below for blog articles with more tips for using Meetup to make like-minded friends where you live.

As hard as it is to make new friends as an adult, it's profoundly easier when you share something in common with someone you meet. That's the beauty of the Meetup app!

Brianna Stryker, Meetup member

Meetup member

Frequently Asked Questions

Friends make life more enjoyable. They are the people who will celebrate good times and help you through the rough times. Making friendships and finding community are also a vital part of your mental health and wellbeing. Research shows that community is one of the greatest indicators of lifelong health and happiness.

Find friendship groups by starting with your interests. Search for any topic you like: soccer, knitting, book clubs, and more. Attend events to meet like-minded friends near you.

Start locally: you can meet friends who live in your city at workout classes, cultural events, or even the dog park! Volunteer for local causes or organizations to meet people who have similar values. Attend Meetup events for your interests and make friends who share them.

Yes! You can explore nearby friendship & socializing events happening around you, including local meetups and activities close to your area, here

Definitely. We also list upcoming online friendship & socializing events, such as virtual meetups, workshops, and live sessions, which you can find here