Advertising
Meet with local Advertisers to discuss the large impact ads have on pop culture.
70,995
members
64
groups
Largest Advertising groups
Newest Advertising groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out advertising events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the advertising events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find advertising events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Advertising Events Today
Join in-person Advertising events happening right now
Sync Social: The 10am Social | 25-40 ages
Tired of awkward mixers and dating apps that go nowhere?
This is a low-pressure morning singles social designed so everyone actually meets.
Join us at Caboose Commons in Fairfax for coffee, brunch, and real conversations. We’ll start with a light, guided format to break the ice (nothing cringey), then open things up for relaxed mingling.
This event is about connection—not speed dating, not swiping, not standing around wondering who to talk to.
Bingo Night
$25 per ticket (includes meal + 1 Bingo card)
Starts at 5:00PM onwards.
[Swift Running](https://www.topvirtualstaffing.com/best-running-walking-shoes), the best carbon-plated running shoes will be there! Come and check us out!
For ticket reservation and payment, call or text: Mang Eton +1 (571) 265-4062
Coffee & Connection: Neurodiverse Meetup
Hi everyone! 😊
First, a **big thank you** to everyone who joined our last meetup before the holidays — it was genuinely great spending time together, and I really appreciate everyone who came out and helped make it such a welcoming space.
Just a quick reminder that our next meetup is coming up:
🗓️ **Saturday, February 7**
⏰ **10:00 AM**
☕ **Compass Coffee – Rosslyn**
📍 **1201 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA**
🚇 **Short walk from the Rosslyn Metro**
Compass Coffee has a relaxed vibe and **two floors of seating**, so we should have plenty of space to hang out and chat.
This is a **casual, low-pressure get-together** for neurodivergent adults (and supportive friends/allies) to connect, share, and just be ourselves. Whether you’ve been before or this is your first time — **you’re very welcome.**
Feel free to bring anything or a parent or a friend that helps you feel comfortable (headphones, fidgets, a book, etc.).
Hope to see you there! ☕✨
Meet the Matchmaker: Singles Needed for Active Clients (Not a Live Event)
We’re actively sourcing emotionally intelligent, growth-oriented singles for current matchmaking clients — and this post is your invite to be considered.
📝 This is not a live or in-person event. It’s a matchmaking spotlight — and a chance for the *right* men and women to express interest in being matched.
***
### 🧩 Our Current Roster Includes:
* **🏅 A professional athlete in his 50s** — successful and focused, looking for his wife. Limited details available — must be a client for consideration.
* **🩺 A 49-year-old doctor in Jacksonville** — grounded, sharp, a proud mom, social and fit, loves golf, and lives life with joy and intention.
* **⚖️ A 33-year-old NYC attorney** — confident, romantic, emotionally self-aware. She's seeking an equally successful, ambitious partner who values communication and growth.
* **🚀 A 33-year-old Dallas entrepreneur** — financially secure, emotionally mature, and looking for a balanced, soft southern woman. He blends kindness, masculinity, and intention beautifully.
***
### 👉 If you’re interested in being matched:
📲 MEN **Text your name, age, location, a recent photo, and a short message about the kind of relationship you’re looking for to 917-451-6561.**
Women up to age 34 may also text if interested in these matches.
🔹 Please note: We do not typically offer complimentary matchmaking. If you're not a current client or approved match, [please be prepared to schedule a consultation. ](https://thehelpmeetclub.com/join-our-database-of-singles-form/)
DC Kali's Beginner & Advanced Class - Saturday Meetup
Covid Alert:
We will start having classes again at Canal Park on Wednesdays and the dojo on Saturdays. Please bring your own hand sanitizer, and a mask are a must! We'll practice from a safe distance from each other; and progress from there. On Saturdays, class is limited to the first 5 persons to rsvp (until further notice)
"DC Kali" is an official training group for FCS Kali. Our curriculum includes knifes, swords, stick-fighting, striking, and grappling; but we place a special emphasis on edged weapons. Please come out and learn some Kali. Our aim is to train hard, learn some sound defense strategies, and make friends along the way. Although FCS Kali is a combat-oriented systems that involves edged weapons, we provide a safe environment for learning w/o sacrificing realism in our training. We teach in small semi-private groups, allowing each individual student to progress as quickly as he or she can absorb the info being taught. Hope to see you all there.
Mosi K. Jack, Esq. Training Group Instructor
· FCS Manong (under Tuhon Ray Dionaldo) http://www.fcskali.com/ )
Filipino Combat Systems is an organization dedicated the preservation and promotion of all Filipino Martial Arts. Filipino Combat Systems(FCS) is an organization/system with members from around the world. FCS is based on Tuhon Ray Dionaldo's over 35 years of practicing various FMA (Filipino Martial Arts) styles. He's combine elements of each, into one system that's efficient, fast, concise, and logical. FCS members have extremely diverse backgrounds, and Martial Arts systems. We’ve all come together because of our love of the Filipino Martial Arts, and our unwillingness to become involved in the politics that has so often stifled our growth.
Please pick one of the following class and fee combos:
Drop-In Fee: $25/per class (after 1st free Saturday class)
Monthly fees: $80/month (Wednesday park classes included for free), or
Quarterly fees: $210/every 3 months (which comes to $70/month; includes the Wednesday park classes), or
Wednesday Park only: $50/month • Cash and Paypal are preferred method of payment (online payments via Square are available at: https://squareup.com/market/dc-kali )
• One free trial class is permitted (but must rsvp ahead of class) •
Equipment: if you have training knives, rattan sticks, training swords, and/or mma gloves bring them. If not, we may have a few extra.
Training Videos http://www.fcskaliphilippines.com/fcs-curriculum-videos.html http://www.bloodnbonesgear.com/id5.html
Cooking With Cupid - Couples
Cooking with Cupid is a delightful couples cooking program designed to bring pairs together in the kitchen to create healthy, delicious meals perfect for a romantic date night. This engaging, interactive class encourages partners to connect over chopping, seasoning, and plating nutritious dishes to celebrate their love and commitment with food that nourishes both body and relationship.
**Ages 18 & up; FREE**
**Registration Required. For registration, only one individual is required per couple to register.**
**Oakcrest Community Center**
**[REGISTER THROUGH PARKS DIRECT](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?display=detail&FMID=551296924&Module=PST&_csrf_token=gb6T6T6Z0B022B4E1R3M404E5O4G6G6B025U5T5K500E5H4L555J1H6W4Q564Y1B5V4M573W05604F5H4V0M5Q5W5D506Y6V4L6N4V615P4W6E6E6Y60606J6J035J4D59)**
For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email [wellness@pgparks.com](http://wellness@pgparks.com/)
Advertising Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Conversation Practice for Autistic Adults (Weekly Class, Drop-Ins Welcome)
**Drop-ins are allowed (you don't have to attend every week) but an RSVP is required so you receive the Zoom link. It's the same link for every class!**
**Sign up here:**
**[https://harringtonmatchmaking.as.me/constellations10](https://harringtonmatchmaking.as.me/constellations10)**
Join a virtual group that meets on Wednesdays + Sundays and focuses on conversational skills, building early friendship and dating confidence, and so much more for neurodivergent adults.
All are welcome, but this group is designed especially for autistic adults with little to no relationship experience and those who struggle with holding conversations or making new friends.
The group is currently open at no cost to Neurodivergent District members but is part of the [Constellations program by Harrington Matchmaking](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership). Currently, most participants are between ages 20 and 45 and are members of Constellations so they've signed up through the website. Many live with family, in supported or semi-independent housing, College Living Experience programs, or similar settings, and are looking for a safe, low-pressure place to practice conversation.
Sessions are coach-led and structured. This is not a free-form discussion group. Each meeting includes guided practice, clear coaching, optional weekly sharing, and supportive feedback.
The majority of the sessions are virtual, with occasional in-person meetups once a month on weekends in the Washington, DC area.
**Drop-ins are allowed (you don't have to attend every week) but an RSVP is required so you receive the Zoom link. It's the same link for every class!**
**Sign up here:**
**[https://harringtonmatchmaking.as.me/constellations10](https://harringtonmatchmaking.as.me/constellations10)**
Feel free to message me with questions.
\- Kate Inez Harrington
kate@neurodivergentdistrict.com
202-925-0001
\*This group is part of Constellations by Harrington Matchmaking, which offers year-round access to coached programs, social opportunities, and dating support. When possible, members are matched with other members for friends and/or dating. Learn more [here](https://www.harringtonmatchmaking.com/constellations-membership). FAQ at end of web page.\*
🌇 Golden Hour: A Curated Singles Night (Ages 42–56)
## 🌇 Golden Hour: A Curated Singles Night (Ages 42–56)
**Part of the *Cuffed by Cupid* Match Series** 💘
A winter singles series leading up to Valentine’s Day.
🗓 **Saturday, November 22**
⏰ **8:00 – 10:00 PM**
📍 **Eighteenth Street Lounge — Washington, DC (Indoor Lounge)**
**Tickets**: https://matchandmeet-goldenhour-february.eventbrite.com
***
At this stage in life, you know what matters — and you value your time.
**Golden Hour** is a curated singles night for adults ages 42–56 who want meaningful conversation, thoughtful connection, and a relaxed, stylish night out. Whether you’re new to the DMV, re-entering the dating scene, or simply open to meeting like-minded people, this event is designed to feel comfortable, intentional, and genuinely enjoyable.
This is not speed dating and not a loud mixer where you’re left on your own. It’s structured just enough to help connections happen naturally — and relaxed enough to feel like a great evening out.
***
### 🎟️ IMPORTANT: Tickets Required
RSVPing “Yes” on Meetup does **not** guarantee entry.
All attendees must purchase a ticket on Eventbrite to attend.
(The ticket link will be shared in the event comments and confirmation message.)
**Tickets**: https://matchandmeet-goldenhour-february.eventbrite.com
***
### 💫 How It Works
• Arrive, check in, and enjoy a drink
• Complete a short compatibility questionnaire on your phone
• Our Matchbox system uses values, goals, and personality to curate up to **3 matches**
• Matches are revealed in relaxed rounds throughout the evening
• Plenty of time to mingle with the full group before and after
No pressure. No awkward games. Just real conversation in a welcoming space.
***
### ⏰ Event Schedule
**8:00 PM** – Arrival, check-in, drinks at the bar
**8:15 PM** – Compatibility questionnaire opens
**8:45 PM** – Match groups revealed
**9:00 PM** – Match #1
**9:20 PM** – Match #2
**9:40 PM** – Match #3
**10:00 PM** – Guests welcome to continue mingling
👉 Please arrive by **8:30 PM** to be included in matchmaking.
***
### 🌟 Who It’s For
Singles ages **42–56** who value meaningful conversation, emotional intelligence, and intentional connection.
Guests within **±2 years** of the age range are welcome (e.g., 40 or 58).
***
### 👔 Dress Code
Polished and date-night ready.
Business casual, smart casual, or semi-formal attire encouraged. Sweaters, blazers, cocktail dresses, and fall layers are all welcome — just come comfortable and confident.
***
### 📋 What You’ll Need
• A smartphone with internet access
• Arrival by 8:30 PM for matchmaking
• An open mindset — we’ll guide the rest
***
### 🛡️ Safety, Access & Policies
• Event is held on a **second-floor indoor lounge (stairs only; limited accessibility)**
• This is a **safe, respectful, and inclusive space**
• Harassment or disruptive behavior will result in removal without refund
• Photos and video may be taken for community promotion
• Refunds available up to **4 days before the event** (Eventbrite policy applies)
***
### 💬 Why Golden Hour Works
This is for people who want real conversation, shared perspective, and connection that fits where they are in life — without rushing or pressure.
📸 Follow along: **@dmv.experiences**
Ages 30s and 40s Seated Speed Dating in Washington DC
Use Promo code WINTERME to receive $5.00 off! Purchase tickets here:
[https://www.prosinthecity.com/event/speed-dating-washington-dc-16056](https://www.prosinthecity.com/event/speed-dating-washington-dc-15393)
Tonight, Professionals in the City is hosting an event for singles in their 30s and 40s. Our Speed Dating Washington DC events are among our most popular singles events so don't miss out!
During Speed Dating Washington DC you'll date for approximately one hour, meeting smart and intriguing members of the opposite sex as you spend a few minutes with each new acquaintance. Meet singles and know right away whom you mutually match with.
After the speed dating, join us for a night of socializing and more interactions. You’ll also be able to spend time with someone you felt you clicked with during one of your speed dates. There will be a cash bar for this eventful evening, so come and meet other single professionals like yourself and have the time of your life!
Then, after the event, use our exclusive online system from home to choose your matches from the people you met at the event. Without disclosing your email address, you'll be able to send messages through our system to anyone who attended. So come to Speed Dating Washington DC and meet that special someone you’ve been looking for.
Check in is at 7:00 and the dating begins at 7:20. Please check in at 7:00 so you have a chance to mix and mingle before the dating begins.
Numbers are limited at this event so sign up soon!
🍷✨ Ladies Day Out: Sip, Snack & Socialize ✨🍹
*** THIS IS A LADIES ONLY EVENT Details are shared in the WhatsApp group so we can coordinate securely and prioritize women’s safety.****
Join us for a fun, warm, and welcoming Ladies Day Out on Sunday, January 25 at 3:00 PM! This is all about good vibes, great conversations, and genuine connection. We’ll be enjoying wine, mocktails, and light bites while relaxing, laughing, and spending quality time with amazing women. No pressure, no agendas—just a chance to unwind and enjoy each other’s company 💕🥂
The location will be shared exclusively in the Ladies Lounge WhatsApp group, so be sure to join using the link below. To maintain a safe and comfortable space for everyone, all members must have an up-to-date and visible profile picture, use their actual name (no nicknames or initials), and have their profile set to public so this information can be seen. If your profile is set to private, your name and/or photo may be hidden, and access may be denied. Please double check your WhatsApppp profile before joining the group
Come as you are, bring your positive energy, and get ready for a cozy, uplifting afternoon with wonderful women 💃🏽✨ Click the link below to join the Ladies Lounge and we’ll see you there! 💬💖
https://chat.whatsapp.com/H533SlZi8h70XjkN6iSEws
SATURDAY Gen X Social
This is where you meet the area's 30, 40 and 50 years young; 30 somethings, 40 somethings, 50 [somethings.......as](http://somethings.......as/) they are known as GENERATION Xers....., who are active, self accomplished, sophisticated, young at heart, empty nesters; who would like to do things and enjoy life; who has got time and could afford it as well!
***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GRAB AT LEAST A DRINK OR A FOOD ITEM :) 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. Direct RSVP required.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
Many of you were not born while we were partying:) The profile picture of this invite was taken while we were having a blast. One of our members was buying us rounds of shots. He almost spent $ 1K just on shots. LET US DO IT AGAIN!
They also make us feel loved and honored, by serving, one of our signature cocktails, which is named after us - MerTini:) It will be one of the featured cocktails. Ask your bartenders:)
Unacceptable Attire:
1. Athletic Clothing: This Includes gym attire, sweatpants, yoga pants, and tracksuits
2. Baggy Clothing: Clothing that is excessively loose-fitting or oversized, such as baggy jeans, sagging sweatpants or oversized t-shirts.
3. Sportswear: Jerseys, team logos, and other sport-specific attire
4. Beachwear: shorts, tank tops, swimwear, and revealing clothing
5. Flip Flops: Open-toe sandals, thong sandals, and flip flops are not allowed
6. Timberlands and Steel Toed Shoes.
DETAILS :
* We will have a registration station and check you in.
* 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.
PARKING INFO
Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking. We highly encourage you to take a public transportation, taxi service or a ride share. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
***N.B. : 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](http://info@merevents.com/)).***
Cocktails & Coloring @ Ballston Market food market, Basement level
Come the whole time or if you just spend 30 minutes. All are welcome.
You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own coloring supplies but, if you don't have any, I will have plenty and am happy to share! (coloring books, colored pencils, and markers).
Part of the mission of this group is to provide us an opportunity to check out AND SUPPORT local businesses. So, please don't bring any outside food/drinks and, while purchasing something isn't at all a REQUIREMENT to participate in the event, I do strongly encourage you to try something from the vendor :)
I look forward to seeing and meeting you there!
***\*\*DISCLAIMER*\*\*** Photos may be taken during the event to be shared here on Meetup so feel free to let me know if you'd like to be excluded from them.
SATURDAY 40s & Up Social
This is where you meet the area's 40 and 50 years young; 40 somethings, 50 [somethings.......as](http://somethings.......as/) they are known as GENERATION Xers....., who are active, self accomplished, sophisticated, young at heart, empty nesters; who would like to do things and enjoy life; who has got time and could afford it as well!
***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GRAB AT LEAST A DRINK OR A FOOD ITEM :) 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. Direct RSVP required.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
Many of you were not born while we were partying:) The profile picture of this invite was taken while we were having a blast. One of our members was buying us rounds of shots. He almost spent $ 1K just on shots. LET US DO IT AGAIN!
They also make us feel loved and honored, by serving, one of our signature cocktails, which is named after us - MerTini:) It will be one of the featured cocktails. Ask your bartenders:)
DETAILS :
* We will have a registration station and check you in.
* 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.
DRESS CODE :
Unacceptable Attire:
1. Athletic Clothing: This Includes gym attire, sweatpants, yoga pants, and tracksuits
2. Baggy Clothing: Clothing that is excessively loose-fitting or oversized, such as baggy jeans, sagging sweatpants or oversized t-shirts.
3. Sportswear: Jerseys, team logos, and other sport-specific attire
4. Beachwear: shorts, tank tops, swimwear, and revealing clothing
5. Flip Flops: Open-toe sandals, thong sandals, and flip flops are not allowed
6. Timberlands and Steel Toed Shoes.
PARKING INFO
Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking. We highly encourage you to take a public transportation, taxi service or a ride share. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
***N.B. : 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](http://info@merevents.com/)).***
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/3/d/600_440642365.jpeg
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/9/3/6/600_440642358.jpeg
http://photos3.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/e/e/600_440642286.jpeg
http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/5/9/600_440642137.jpeg
http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/7/8/f/600_440641935.jpeg
Advertising Events Near You
Connect with your local Advertising community
🍸 Interactive Bombay Gin Cocktail Class & Social Hour
Join us for an interactive Bombay Gin Cocktail Class at TownHall — a fun, social experience designed to bring people together over great drinks, great food, and great conversation.
During the class, you’ll learn how to craft several different Bombay Gin cocktails, guided by a master mixologist in a relaxed, high-energy setting. This isn’t a lecture — it’s hands-on, engaging, and built to spark connection, laughter, and good vibes.
Whether you come solo or with friends, this experience makes it easy to meet people, enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, and unwind mid-week.
✨ What’s Included (A Ton 😁)
• Multiple Bombay Gin cocktails
• Interactive cocktail instruction
• Food & appetizers sponsored by TownHall
• A lively, social atmosphere
🍸 Sponsored by Bombay Gin
🍽 Food & appetizers sponsored by TownHall
Must be 21+ to attend
$20 fee per person 
Trivia Thursdays with Marquis!
Thursdays just got smarter (and sassier). 🧠🍻 Join us at TownHall Short North for Trivia Night with Marquis—where the questions are fun, the competition is friendly, and the vibes are immaculate. Grab your crew, sip something good, and prove you know random facts you absolutely shouldn’t.
Trails & Valentines! Quarry Trails Metro Park / Johnnie's Tavern
***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails**
[Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space.
In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration.
The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours.
Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks.
Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city.
***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day**
The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD.
The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era.
Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection.
***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park**
Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg).
***(She loves me not.)* Summary**
For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way.
***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet**
Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event.
Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't.
We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going.
***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains**
There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails.
***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike**
Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.
French conversation club
Bienvenue! Columbus French Conversation group invites you to our Saturday morning French conversation club. Expect a casual and welcoming atmosphere in which to learn french! I will bring my laptop so we can look up new vocabulary as needed! The venue is a beautiful French restaurant so you can really get into the zone :)
Pickleball.
Let’s try MILO this week. Back to our old stomping ground
COLUMBUS RECREATION CENTERS require membership fee to play. Register & Pay at the desk when you arrive. $5 day pass is available for first time players.
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.






























