20's-30's
Meet other local people interested in 20's-30's: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a 20's-30's group.
298,880
members
105
groups
Largest 20's-30's groups
Newest 20's-30's groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out 20's-30's events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the 20's-30's events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find 20's-30's events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
20's-30's Events Today
Join in-person 20's-30's events happening right now
Valentines/Cupid Bar Crawl [20% DISCOUNT CODE WITHIN]
To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link ([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884)). RSVPing only on the Meetup page, doesn't allow you to attend the Event. ADVANCE TICKET PURCHASE IS REQUIRED.
ABOUT THE EVENT
Love and friendship are in the air, Cupid's arrow is everywhere. Whether you are single or taken, this crawl is for you! All the love birds out there looking for their soul mates. No need to wander anymore for a lover's spot, as we organize this auspicious hoping, from bar to bar. Never shall you find such an awesome moment as we invite you to join us at this romantic celebration.
Get ready for All-Day Food & Drink Specials, Epic Costume Contest , DJs, Photos, Giveaways and Free Entry to the most Popular Bars in Dupont Circle.
Registration : (2PM - 4:00PM)
CAN'T MAKE IT BY 4:00 PM? If you have friends who are participating in the event, you may text/email them your QR Code and they can pick up your event wristband and party favors for you.
**There will be a lot of people. Use the comment box of the Meetup to coordinate amongst the group.**
**This is also a wicked 'MeRtUp' with a saving!**
**What is MERTUP?:) Mer + Meetup = Mertup.**
**Mer is known as the Meetup guy. He likes to connect people and his fans coined that name for him. So, at his events, everyone will become a Wing Person to everyone:) When you get get there, we will introduce you to someone and you will be responsible to introduce that person to another person. That is MERTUP!**
**Enter the Promo Code 'MERTUP' to redeem your 20% discount!**
([https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/valentinescupids-bar-crawl-tickets-1980592633884))
FAQs
REGISTRATION
Registration is from 2PM-4PM. You'll receive your wristband and swags . If you can't make it by 4pm text/email your QR Code to a friend. They can present your ticket and pick everything up for you. But the party continues till 10PM!
TICKETS
You MUST print a copy of your ticket or have with you or on your phone. Tickets are transferable and not refundable. You can give your ticket to a friend to use if you cannot attend the event.
DRESS CODE
Anything which expresses love. It could be Love Bug Costume, Cut Outs, Torn & Restored Heart,.....etc
ID
Government issued ID is required! It will be checked at every participating bar that you choose to go to. All participants must be 21 years old or older.
WEATHER
Event goes on rain, snow or shine!
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Reach out to info@merevents.com
HAPPY CRAWLINGS!!!
You must be over 21 years of age to participate. Please don't drink and drive! Take public transportation or Ride Share or call a cab.
Payment Instructions :
1\. Login to see the 'Get Tickets' button\, after RSVPing\. Then hit the button\.
2\. Verify correct dollar amount for number of people you're paying for\.
***3.* If you don't have a Paypal account, proceed to the next page and scroll down to see "Pay with a Debit or Credit Card". Then turn off the button 'Save The Info and Create Your Paypal Account'**
4\. If you have a Paypal account\, simply log in\, and pay as you normally would via Paypal\.
**How to Unblock the Pop-up Blocker on Your Phone**
Many of our patrons advised us that they have a Pop-up Blocker on their iPhones and it hinders them from buying tickets. To unblock, please follow the following steps :
For Safari Users :
1\. Go to Settings\.
2\. Scroll down to Safari and click on it\.
3\. Select Block Pop\-ups and turn it off\.
For Google Chrome Users :
1\. Open Google Chrome\.
2\. Click on the three dots and you will see many options\.
3\. Click on Settings\.
4\. Scroll down to content settings\.
5\. Select Block Pop\-ups and turn it off\.
Ticket Refund and Resell Policy
All sales are final. We only refund the full amount, if the event is canceled. If it is rescheduled, we will send an email to thicket holders advising that. A full refund will be given to those that let us know within 2 calendar days of the update email, if you are unable to make it on the new date. No refunds will be given after that time.
However, you can sell your ticket to someone else if you are unable to attend. Please, feel free to post in the comment box for the event, that you have a ticket for sale. Work out payment between yourselves, and have the seller only send the organizer a message letting us know the full name of the person taking your spot. You must let us know two hours before the RSVP close time, on the day of the event.
**FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITE LINK AND PURCHASE TICKET. IT RULES.**
Cupid's Bar Crawl 2026 - Washington, DC (10+ Bars)
**[Cupid's Bar Crawl](https://cupidsbarcrawl.com/)** celebrates the season of love with a fun group gathering. Join thousands of brightly clad fellow crawlers as they amble from stop to stop on this Cupid excursion. Whether you're single, taken, or just hoping to get shot by Cupid's never failing arrow, do so with some of DC's finest on **Saturday, 2/14.**
We do this event every year, and it get more every time! We will have 100+ MEETUP rock-stars in attendance from 5 different groups!
**\*\* [Sign up HERE](https://cupidsbarcrawl2026.eventbrite.com/) and use promo code: "MEETUP" and save 20% \*\***
**When:** 2PM-10PM, Saturday, February 14th, 2026
**What you get:** A refillable signature Cupid's Crawl mug, cover-free access to some of Dupont's best bars, exclusive all-day drinks & food deals, and a raffle entry to win great prizes.
**\*\* [Sign up HERE](https://cupidsbarcrawl2026.eventbrite.com/) and use promo code: "MEETUP" and save 20% \*\***
You must be 21 years or older to participate. Please drink responsibly.
For more event details visit [https://cupidsbarcrawl.com](https://cupidsbarcrawl.com/)
Cupid's Bar Crawl 2026 - Washington, DC (10+ Bars)
**[Cupid's Bar Crawl](https://cupidsbarcrawl.com/)** celebrates the season of love with a fun group gathering. Join thousands of brightly clad fellow crawlers as they amble from stop to stop on this Cupid excursion. Whether you're single, taken, or just hoping to get shot by Cupid's never failing arrow, do so with some of DC's finest on **Saturday, 2/14.**
We do this event every year, and it get more every time! We will have 100+ MEETUP rock-stars in attendance from 5 different groups!
**\*\* [Sign up HERE](https://cupidsbarcrawl2026.eventbrite.com/) and use promo code: "MEETUP" and save 20% \*\***
**When:** 2PM-10PM, Saturday, February 14th, 2026
**What you get:** A refillable signature Cupid's Crawl mug, cover-free access to some of Dupont's best bars, exclusive all-day drinks & food deals, and a raffle entry to win great prizes.
**\*\* [Sign up HERE](https://cupidsbarcrawl2026.eventbrite.com/) and use promo code: "MEETUP" and save 20% \*\***
You must be 21 years or older to participate. Please drink responsibly.
For more event details visit [https://cupidsbarcrawl.com](https://cupidsbarcrawl.com/)
Valentine's Day Happy Hour/Dinner at Dog Daze Social Club in NW DC
**Paws, Pints & Puppy Love: Valentine’s Day Singles Meetup**
Looking for love… or at least a new friend who thinks your dog is as cute as you do? Join us for a Valentine’s Day gathering designed for singles who own dogs (or just adore them.)
We’ll be meeting at **Dog Daze Social Club**, a dog-friendly restaurant and social space where pups are welcome and conversations come easy. Whether you arrive with your four-legged wingman or simply want to meet other dog-loving singles, this is a relaxed, playful way to spend Valentine’s Day without pressure or awkward small talk.
Expect:
* A warm, casual atmosphere
* Plenty of dogs to pet and talk about
* Food and drinks available for purchase
* A mix of people who love dogs as much as you do
No speed dating. No forced activities. Just good company, wagging tails, and an easy way to meet new people. (maybe that special someone...)
**Location:**
Dog Daze Social Club - in a heated tent (so outside, for your awareness)
1100 Rhode Island Ave NW
Washington, DC 20005
**Date:**
Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2026
Bring your dog if you have one. Bring yourself if you don’t. Either way, you’re welcome. (But you must love dogs!)
***Important note:*** *Before attending, please review Dog Daze Social Club’s house rules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone. Dogs must meet age and vaccination requirements, follow leash and collar rules, and display friendly behavior, while humans are asked to supervise their pups, clean up after them, and respect the facility’s guidelines. **The limit for dogs brought to the venue is 2**, and staff may enforce time-outs or removal for unsafe behavior.*
Due to reservation limitations, no +1's are allowed.
Full rules and details can be found here: https://dogdazedc.com/rules/
CUPID HIKE
**The Goombay CUPID HIKE for Single & Couples**
We’re making it easy (and fun) to connect on the trail! Wear a color that represents your vibe and let the hike do the rest.
**Saturday\, Feb\. 14th \| 10am\-12pm**
**Rock Creek Park** \| 5200 Glover Rd\. NW Washington\, DC
\* We will meet in the parking lot of the Nature Center.
**RSVP at [www.Goombay.net](www.goombay.net) or at the direct link below**
**[http://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4888022-cupid-hike-for-singles--couples-2026](http://goombaydc.leagueapps.com/camps/4888022-cupid-hike-for-singles--couples-2026)**
***
**Wear RED: I'm already taken**
For participants who are:
* In a relationship
* Married
* Boo’d up
* Here for the hike, vibes, and fun—not flirting
**Wear WHITE: I'm Open-Minded/No pressure**
* Single but not rushing
* Recently single
* Emotionally available but moving intentionally
* Just enjoying the vibe and organic connections
**Wear BLACK: I'm Single & Ready to Mingle**
For participants who are:
* Single
* Actively open to meeting someone
* Comfortable with conversation, flirting, and connections
## **Playful Disclaimer (Highly Recommended)**
**Friendly Trail Rules**
• Colors are for fun—not guarantees
• Respect everyone’s space and boundaries
• “No” is a full sentence
• This is a hike first… connections second
Good vibes only. Let’s keep it classy and comfortable for everyone.
***
This is a Moderate Level hike which is generally suitable for novice hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve moderate inclines and may have some steeper sections. This trail is 5-6 miles through scenic Rock Creek Park.
\*\* NO PETS ALLOWED
**HIKE AGENDA:**
9:45am: Hikers check in at the entrance to the Nature Center. You will see the group assembling by the parking lot.
10:00am: Hikers assemble for welcome announcement
10:15am: Hike begins
12:00pm: Hike ends
12:30pm: Meet at the SURFSIDE \| 4200 Wisconsin Ave\. NW Washington\, DC
**SUGGESTED EQUIPMENT LIST**
* Day Pack for hiking supplies
* Trekking Poles (optional)
* Sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers
* Small First Aid Kit (optional)
* Weather-appropriate clothing (think moisture-wicking and layers)
* Hat or scarf
* Trail snacks & plenty of water
* Wipes/Toilet Paper (optional)
* Hand Warmers (optional)
* Cell phone with back up battery
**FAQ**
**WHAT LEVEL IS THIS HIKE:** This is a Moderate Level hike which is generally suitable for novice hikers seeking a bit of a challenge. The terrain will involve moderate inclines and may have some steeper sections. This trail is between 5-6 miles.
**CAN BEGINNERS ATTEND THIS HIKE:** Yes, we welcome beginners to attend this hike but please note, there will be some challenging sections throughout the hike but nothing to strenuous.
**WHAT IS THE PACE OF THE GROUP:** The group will start off at the same time and during the hike three distinct pace groups will form. We will have hike leaders mixed within the group and we will stop periodically for water and rest.
**WHAT TYPE OF HIKE IS THIS:** This is a loop trail hike and will start and end at the same location
**WHAT SHOULD I WEAR:** A good rule of thumb is to dress comfortably and in layers. Dressing in layers will allow you to stay warm when your cold and as you warm up, you can take off layers and not over heat. It's going to be cool to cold so we strongly suggest warm clothing, moisture wicking under garments, a hat, sturdy hiking boots or trail sneakers (your choice), wool socks, a small day back, trekking poles (optional) and plenty of water.
**ARE PETS ALLOWED:** NO
***If you have any questions please contact Butch at 202.210-1957***
20's-30's Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Board Games at The Spot
Come meet other 20s and 30s and play board games at The Spot Asian Food Hall in Rockville Town Center. We'll play from 1-3 pm but could go later if folks are interested. Bring games you'd like to play if you've got them.
Since The Spot has limited seating, please keep your RSVP up to date.
💃 Sunday Sip & Step - Dance Class + Social w/ HerZouk @ La Cosecha 🍷
**We are collaborating with HerZoukSociety a Valentines Weekend Social**
Whether you're new to community or a seasoned dancer, this is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the rhythm, community, and fun of Brazilian culture.
**REGISTER HERE**
[REGISTER HERE FOR THE SOCIAL](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sunday-sip-step-dance-class-social-w-herzouksocirty-tickets-1982455260049?aff=oddtdtcreator)
💖Attendees are encouraged to wear Valentines Colors
**⏰** **5-5:30 Meet & Greet Social (w/CapitalCitySocial)**
**⏰ 5:30-6:30PM** Lambada with Peri Oxford
**⏰6:30- 9:30 PM** Social Dancing with DJ SoniBliss (*Upstairs on the Balcony/Balcón*)
🚗 Parking: FREE parking at and around Union Market.
🚇 Public Transport: Conveniently located near NoMA-Gallaudet U Metro Station (Red Line) and accessible by U St-Garfield Metrobus lines (90, 92, and 93).
Hot chocolate and dessert crawl in Georgetown
Join us for a cozy Hot Chocolate & Dessert Walk through Georgetown
🍫 We’ll be stopping by a few cafés and dessert spots to try some desserts and hot chocolate in the neighborhood, with short walks in between for good conversation and winter vibes. Not a big sweet tooth? No worries, you’re welcome to grab savory bites along the way too.
The exact crawl route will be shared with confirmed attendees. Come hungry, dress warm, and be ready for sugar, strolling, and meeting new people.
Your RSVP helps us plan a smooth and enjoyable day!
This event is public, so feel free to bring a friend (20s and 30s only). If they are not a member yet, no worries! We’ll share how to join Strawberry Matcha when you arrive.
**Deadline to RSVP:** February 12th
Wine and Dine
I’m hosting a relaxed Sunday afternoon meetup for casual singles—and by “meetup,” I mean wine, beer, cocktails, and conversation, and seeing who you end up talking to for way longer than planned.
No structure. No pressure. No forced fun. Just a cozy bar, good pours, and interesting people who also decided their couch could wait one night.
🍺🍷🍹🍺🍷🍹
Speed Dating (40s-60s)
To secure your spot, purchase your ticket from the Eventbrite link (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/speed-dating-40s-and-up-tickets-157534882073). RSVPing only on the Meetup page, doesn't allow you to attend the Event.
ABOUT THE EVENT
In-person Rooftop Dating in style, with ample social and physical distancing:)
Our Speed Dating Event is just like a happy hour. It is structured and with purpose. So, come relaxed, natural and be ready to have fun. As usual we will try to make it a low pressure event. The only huge favor we ask from you, is to be on time.
1. We mingle and socialize for the first half hour.
2. We will give each couple 3 minutes seated interaction time.
3. After we finish the rotation, the party continues at the cash bar.
4. The fee for the speed dating is $ 15 by signing up in advance and $ 40 on the date of the event.
5. The payment secures serious and committed people. Ticket Price is subject to increase.
6. RSVP will be open up until matches between sexes evens up. We constantly update the RSVPs.
7. If you are not able to attend you can sell your thicket to same sex.
8. For the dating session, we seat one man across from each woman. Then, we rotate each man to the next woman, until each man has met each woman present. Please try to speak loud, since everyone would speak at the same time.
9. After the 3 minutes time is up, you will then secretly circle yes or no on your date card depending on whether or not you would like to get to know the person you just met better.
10. Then, we will do the matching right after the event and will send you the result by email.
Due to the pandemic the entire set up of this event is changed:
- We will be complying with all CDC, state, and local guidelines.
- Occupancy never exceeds 50%.
- All patrons must wear masks. If you don't wear a mask, we don't allow you to enter and you won't be refunded.
- A thorough cleaning and disinfection of frequently contacted surfaces will be done during the event and please bear with us.
- Temperature check for staff and patrons.
Payment Instructions :
1. You should login from a PC to see the 'Pay Now' button, after RSVPing. Then hit the button.
2. Verify correct dollar amount for number of people you're paying for.
3. If you don't have a Paypal account, click "Pay with a Debit or Credit Card".
4. If you have a Paypal account, simply log in, and pay as you normally would via Paypal.
Refund & Ticket Resell
All sales are final. We only refund the full amount, if the event is canceled. If it is rescheduled, we will send an email to ticket holders advising that. A full refund will be given to those that let us know within 2 calendar days of the update email, if you are unable to make it on the new date. No refunds will be given after that time.
However, you can sell your ticket to someone else if you are unable to attend. Please, feel free to post in the comment box for the event, that you have a ticket for sale. Work out payment between yourselves, and have the seller only send the organizer a message letting us know the full name of the person taking your spot. You must let us know two hours before the RSVP close time, on the day of the event.
METRO & PARKING INFO :
The closest metro station is Navy Yard.
Street Parking might be a challenge. But if you plan to drive, try your luck on Champlain Street. Otherwise, there is a parking garage around. We highly recommend a shared ride or taxi service.
**FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITE LINK AND PURCHASE TICKETS. IT RULES.
Social Sips & Bites-are you ready to dance. Valentine’s Day Ball
We’re launching 2026 in full motion with a two-day dance takeover at El Rey, and this is just the beginning of an epic year of dance events.
**Friday, February 13**
Friday Night Fever
Our very first monthly dance party kicks off—big energy, nonstop music, and a packed dance floor.
**Saturday, February 14**
Valentine’s Day Ball
A night to celebrate love, friendship, and connection with unforgettable vibes and music that keeps you moving.
Two nights.
Two massive dance parties.
One iconic venue.
Come for one night, or go all in for both, and help us set the tone for an unforgettable year.
Let’s dance it out at El Rey.
20's-30's Events Near You
Connect with your local 20's-30's community
🌸 Blossoms & Bubbles: March Happy Hour @ City Perch 🍸
🌸 Blossoms & Bubbles: March Happy Hour @ City Perch 🍸
Let’s welcome spring (and cherry blossom season!) with a stylish Friday night happy hour at City Perch in Pike & Rose. Expect craft cocktails, cozy lounge vibes, and a friendly group — perfect for meeting new people and starting the weekend right.
📍 City Perch Kitchen + Bar
11830 Grand Park Ave, North Bethesda (Pike & Rose)
🗓️ Friday, March 13, 2026
⏰ 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM (drop in anytime!)
What to expect:
• Craft cocktails, wine & mocktails 🍸
• Social, no-pressure atmosphere — come solo or bring a friend
• We’ll gather near the bar/lounge area
• A mix of locals, newcomers & young professionals
Vibe:
Think “cocktail lounge meets social mixer” — fun and welcoming, not stiff or overly formal. Wear whatever feels good (casual to cute is perfect).
Optional: Florals, pastel colors, or a spring accessory 🌸
(Totally optional — just adds to the theme!)
RSVP encouraged so we can plan for space 💬
Looking forward to a great night out with everyone!
— Aaron
Intro & Planning Meeting - With Cookies!
Let's kick things off with a meeting to introduce ourselves and discuss what we're going to read over the next several months. Bring suggestions and your sweet tooth, because I'm bringing chocolate chip cookies!
20s/30s Coffee Meetup - Ridgetop Coffee and Tea
Regular coffee meetup for people to meet, make new friends, or enjoy general conversations with coffee. Great for those who are new in town or looking for new activities to do!
This will be held at Ridgetop Coffee and Tea in Sterling.
Additional Note: If you are on the Wait List, you can still feel free to attend if you wish.
20s/30s Decaf Meetup - Boba Tea
Regular boba tea meetup for people to meet, make new friends, or enjoy general conversations. Great for those who are new in town or find new activities to do!
SOLD OUT-Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: Love and Monsters
**This talk has completely sold out in advance and no door tickets will be available.**
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Love and Monsters,”** on the inescapable bond between romance and horror, with Joshua Barton, scholar of horror and lecturer in English at Virginia Commonwealth University.
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-love-monsters](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/nv-love-monsters) .]
Romance and horror might seem like opposite genres, but they share a deep emotional core, and the combination of them has captivated audiences across time and culture.
Put even your worst Valentine’s Day in perspective by hearing this strange relationship discussed by Joshua Barton, who has earned a big following among Profs and Pints fans with his past talks on cryptids, American horror, and Christmas ghosts.
He’ll explore the undeniable and unsettling intersection of romance and horror and examine how and why love and fear intensify each other and combined to create tension, drive narratives, and explore human vulnerability.
We’ll look at works that have blended passion and terror, including Gothic literature like the vampire novella *Carmilla* and modern films like *Spring* and *Crimson Peak*. We’ll study the fine line between obsession and adoration running through Stephen King’s “I Know What You Need,” Adrian Lyne’s *Fatal Attraction*, and the timeless *The Phantom of the Opera.* We’ll discuss the seeds of monstrous love that were planted with *Beauty and the Beast* and *Creature from the Black Lagoon* and bloom ferociously in works like *Twilight* and *The Shape of Water*. Through it all, we’ll find the threads of otherness and the taboo that intertwine horror, love, and reflections on identity.
Join us for a journey through storytelling that combines the grotesque and the scintillating as we uncover why romance and horror are a match made in the dark. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image: From the original 1954 advertising poster for *Creature from the Black Lagoon* (Artist: Reynold Brown / Public Domain).
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: Satanic Panics
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Satanic Panics,”** a look at waves of fear of demonic activity as an American tradition, with Luxx Mishou, cultural historian and former instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy and area community colleges.
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics2](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-satanic-panics2) .]
The 1980s found the United States gripped by fear of Satanic cults targeting children. They were believed to be corrupting young ones in daycare centers and tempting teens through subliminal messages on heavy metal albums or through the quiet inclusion of demonic rituals in role-playing games. Satanic serial killers supposedly stalked the suburbs. Doctors helped patients uncover what were claimed to be repressed memories of ritualistic satanic abuse.
Parents, police, and politicians were urged to protect impressionable youths from both moral and physical danger. With Satanic cults deemed to be a real and material threat, it was a frightening time for everyone, including those who suddenly came under suspicion for doing evil deeds.
Then, suddenly, it all faded from public consciousness, just as surely as did eighties fads such mullet haircuts, leg warmers, and Cabbage Patch Kids.
Why did it all start? Why did it stop? And has this happened before or since?
Hear such questions tackled by Luxx Mishou, a cultural historian and media specialist who has long researched the devious and villainous in cultural artifacts. She’ll discuss moral panics as a longstanding cultural tradition, with each new one stemming from fear of cultural shifts and shaped by the time and place where it occurred. Among the panics we’ll look into are the Red Scare of the 1950s and the public response to the gruesome 1969 murders committed by the Manson Family.
Delving into the 1980s panic, Mishou will describe how it began with the 1980 publication of psychiatrist Lawrence Pazder’s memoir *Michelle Remembers*, detailing the suppressed memories of ritualistic abuse reportedly suffered by a patient. As that book quickly became a best seller, its ideas saturated American culture. A California daycare center became the focus of a three-year investigation, followed by three years of trials, based on allegations that its owner had engaged in secret ritualistic abuse of the children in its care.
Mishou will lead you through the media that convinced the public that devil worshipers were among them, and she’ll talk about how reactions to imagined threats can have very real social costs. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image by Canva.
Profs & Pints Northern Virginia: The Hidden Cleopatra
[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Hidden Cleopatra,”** an excavation through myth and slander to uncover the real Egyptian queen, with Jacquelyn Williamson, an Egyptologist and associate professor of archaeology and ancient art at George Mason University.
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra](https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/profsandpints/hidden-cleopatra) .]
Depictions of Cleopatra are abundant in popular culture. A long list of painters have depicted her, Marilyn Monroe and Kim Kardashian have posed as her, and Vivien Leigh and Elizabeth Taylor famously portrayed her in Hollywood films.
At the end of the day, however, what most of us think we know about Cleopatra is wrong, the product of the ancient Rome’s “fake news” and anti-Egypt propaganda.
Learn about the real Cleopatra—and how our understanding of her came to be so distorted—with Professor Jacquelyn Williamson, scholar of women and power in ancient Egypt, teacher of courses on ancient Egyptian art and archaeology, and author of *Nefertiti’s Sun Temple: A New Cult Complex at Tell el-Amarna.*
Dr. Williamson will walk us through how the first Roman emperor, Octavian, created the distorted image of Cleopatra as seductress that we know today as part of his political scheming to defeat his rival Antony and end the Roman Republic once and for all.
Cleopatra has been the subject of debate and controversy ever since. William Shakespeare later relied on ancient Roman sources such as Horace and Plutarch in writing *Antony and Cleopatra*, and his play helped give rise to countless other works offering a distorted picture of her.
Professor Williamson argues that “Cleopatra was a human being, like you and I,” and “deserves the dignity of being represented as accurately as possible.” Her efforts to set the record straight have met frustration, however—after being extensively interviewed for the recent Netflix historical docuseries Queen Cleopatra, she concluded that it, too, had missed the mark.
You’ll gain a much deeper appreciation of the challenges of researching and accurately depicting the ancient past from Dr. Williamson, who also has taught at Harvard, Brandeis, and the University of California at Berkeley and is involved with an ongoing archaeological investigation of Queen Nefertiti’s sun temple. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image: Layla Taj portrays Cleopatra VII as part of an Egyptian Cultural Performing Arts Society production. (Photo by Amos Gvili / Wikimedia Commons.)










![Valentines/Cupid Bar Crawl [20% DISCOUNT CODE WITHIN]](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/4/1/8/highres_501354296.webp?w=640)



















