Ancient Civilizations

**PICNIC CON CONSCIENCIA EN LA PLAYA – Barcelona** ¿Te apetece disfrutar de un momento agradable bajo el sol, conocer personas nuevas y compartir conversaciones que inspiran? Te invitamos a un encuentro relajado en la playa de Barcelona para disfrutar juntos de un picnic, conversaciones auténticas, risas, mar, sol y buena energía. Un espacio sencillo y natural para desconectar de la rutina y conectar con personas con una bonita sensibilidad. Compartiremos sobre temas que nutren y enriquecen la vida: • Desarrollo personal • Bienestar • Espiritualidad (desde una visión abierta) • Energía positiva • Experiencias de vida • Sueños, proyectos e inspiración **Lugar:** Playa de Barcelona. La ubicación exacta se comunicará por WhatsApp en el grupo. **Hora de inicio:** 17:00 **Hora de fin:** cuando quieras… sin presión, hasta que el sol se vaya o las conversaciones sigan fluyendo. Grupo Whatssap : [https://chat.whatsapp.com/J1vV5OSfs83CMNWoPXxrGN](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J1vV5OSfs83CMNWoPXxrGN) Este encuentro es ideal para personas abiertas, curiosas y con ganas de conocer nuevas amistades en un ambiente cálido, positivo y sin presión. Podrás simplemente relajarte, tomar el sol, bañarte en el mar, compartir un momento agradable y crear conexiones reales con personas con un bonito estado de ánimo. Trae algo para compartir si te apetece (bebida, fruta, snack, etc.), una toalla y tu mejor energía. **Evento gratuito** Te esperamos para disfrutar juntos del sol, del mar y de bellos encuentros humanos. Fred @fred_omayan —- PICNIC WITH CONSCIOUS CONNECTION AT THE BEACH – Barcelona Would you like to enjoy a pleasant moment under the sun, meet new people and share inspiring conversations? We invite you to a relaxed gathering on a Barcelona beach to enjoy a picnic together, authentic conversations, laughter, sea, sunshine and positive energy. A simple and natural space to disconnect from daily routine and connect with people with beautiful energy. We’ll share around topics that nourish and enrich life: • Personal development • Well-being • Spirituality (from an open perspective) • Positive energy • Life experiences • Dreams, projects and inspiration This gathering is ideal for open-minded, curious people who would love to make new friendships in a warm, positive and pressure-free atmosphere. You can simply relax, enjoy the sun, swim in the sea, share a pleasant moment and create genuine connections with people with a beautiful mindset. Grupo Whatssap : [https://chat.whatsapp.com/J1vV5OSfs83CMNWoPXxrGN](https://chat.whatsapp.com/J1vV5OSfs83CMNWoPXxrGN) Date: Saturday, May 30th, 2026 Location: Barcelona beach. The exact location will be shared via WhatsApp in the group. Start time: 17:00 PM End time: whenever you feel like it Feel free to bring something to share if you’d like (a drink, fruit, snacks, etc.), a towel and your best energy. Free event. Register on the Meetup event page or join through the WhatsApp group: We’re looking forward to enjoying the sun, the sea and beautiful human connections together. And as always… don’t forget to bring: sunscreen so you don’t turn into a lobster, water to stay hydrated and a hat or cap so the sun doesn’t turn you into a human toast. Fred @fred_omayan

¡Hola a tod@s! En esta visita nos desplazaremos a la montaña de Montjuic. Además de que podréis disfrutar de un agradable paseo por la montaña con vistas a toda la ciudad, allí rescataremos una realidad social despreciada e ignorada durante décadas: miles de personas convivieron en BARRACAS (chabolas) desde el siglo XIX hasta, prácticamente, las Olimpiadas de Barcelona de 1992 en situación muy precaria. Lejos de estigmatizar a los barraquistas pondremos en evidencia la dureza de su día a día, así como su contribución crucial, como mano de obra barata, en el exitoso desarrollo económico de la ciudad. El barraquismo se extendió también a otros puntos de la ciudad, constituyendo barrios como Los Cañones, La Perona, El Somorrostro etc etc. En 1957 100.000 personas vivían en barracas en Barcelona (30.000 de ellas en Montjuïc), ¡lo que representaba casi el 10% de los habitantes de la ciudad! Con esta ruta queremos visibilizar su historia, para que no caiga en el olvido. Espero que la disfrutéis Miguel

A Mediterranean evening experience in a private villa above Barcelona. A night designed around open terraces, shared tables and a warm, social atmosphere in Horta. From 20:30 to 12:30, step into a lively yet relaxed setting where people come together to enjoy the night, meet others and disconnect above the city. We host intimate groups of around 30 people to keep things easygoing and personal, creating a natural space to connect — whether you come with friends or on your own. A Mediterranean-style buffet will be available during the evening, with a variety of fresh dishes, along with wine, beer and drinks throughout the night. Music will accompany the atmosphere without taking over it. Not a crowded party. A private gathering with limited spots to preserve the experience. **Ideal for:** – Expats and internationals in Barcelona – People new to the city – Those looking to meet others in a natural way – Anyone after a different kind of Saturday night 📍 Private villa in Barcelona Exact address shared after confirmation Reservation required to attend. Food, music and open-air night with pool and skyline views. Limited access to preserve the atmosphere. Location and price: +34 600 41 67 80 **[Reserve your spot](https://tally.so/r/BzbAB7)** You can get a feel of the atmosphere on our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/thewhitevilla._/).

**Explora la Barcelona más antigua y descubre sus secretos mejor guardados.** Acompáñanos en un recorrido fascinante por el casco antiguo de la ciudad condal, donde la historia cobra vida en cada rincón. Durante aproximadamente 1 hora y 45 minutos, caminaremos por calles que han sido testigo de siglos de acontecimientos, desde la época medieval hasta nuestros días. Visitaremos algunos de los lugares más emblemáticos como **la Catedral de Barcelona, la Generalitat de Catalunya, la Catedral del Mar, el Born**, y finalizaremos nuestro viaje en el majestuoso **Arc de Triomf**. Este tour está pensado para los amantes de la historia y para los curiosos de corazón❤️​: **te compartiremos datos sorprendentes y anécdotas que te harán ver Barcelona con nuevos ojos.** 🗣 **Idioma:** Español/Català 🙋‍♀️​ **Guía:** Mia Soria 🕰 **Duración:** 1h 45min aprox. 💶 **Precio:** 10 € por persona 💳 **Pago al comienzo del tour en efectivo o vía Bizum** 📍 **Punto de encuentro:** Catedral de Barcelona 📍 **Punto final:** Arc de Triomf *Al finalizar el recorrido, te invitamos a quedarte a tomar algo si te apetece. Será un momento ideal para resolver dudas, compartir conocimientos históricos y disfrutar de un intercambio cultural en un ambiente relajado.* 🍻​ ¿Te animas a redescubrir Barcelona con nosotros?

🇪🇸 Español / English 🇬🇧 ¿Quieres vivir una experiencia única en plena naturaleza con una visita guiada al Remolar-Filipinas, el espacio natural más valioso cerca de Barcelona? La actividad la conducirá **Miguel Pou, zoólogo** y creador de las Reservas Naturales del Delta del Llobregat, quien compartirá su conocimiento y pasión por la fauna, especialmente **por las aves** que habitan este entorno privilegiado. Durante el recorrido, tendrás la oportunidad de observar distintas especies en su hábitat natural. Miguel ofrecerá explicaciones cercanas y rigurosas, creando un espacio agradable y ameno **tanto para curiosos como para amantes de la naturaleza**. Esta excursión está pensada para desconectar del ritmo cotidiano y reconectar con la Naturaleza, disfrutando de amplios espacios de gran belleza preservada de la intromisión humana, con los sonidos del humedal y la biodiversidad. Una experiencia enriquecedora, educativa y serena, ideal para quienes buscan conocimiento y bienestar en un ambiente distinto. Podéis llegar en **coche**, ya que hay aparcamiento, indicado en el mapa. Quedamos directamente en el Remolar en la dirección indicada abajo. Puedes llegar en **autobús**, desde Barcelona en la Plaza de España en el Autobús 46. Todos nos encontraremos ante la entrada del Centro de Información de la Reserva Natural (tocando el Aparcamiento). **Recomendación**: Lleva Prismáticos, guía de aves y cantimplora (no imprescindible). **Sobre** **el** **Guía**: Miguel Pou ha obtenido el premio Príncipe de Asturias en ecología y el World Wildlife Fund-España sobre un ave que veremos, la Cigüeñuela. Su trabajo "Introduccion a un estudio Ecológico sobre el Delta del Llobregat" hizo crear las Reservas Naturales de este Delta, lo que le llevó a ganar el premio Holanda de la Philips. Es el principal experto Mundial en Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente, con 4 libros publicados (pondremos 2 en venta). **English** 🇬🇧 We invite you to enjoy a unique experience in the heart of nature with a guided visit to Remolar-Filipinas, the most valuable natural area near Barcelona. The activity will be led by **Miguel Pou, zoologist** and creator of the Natural Reserves of the Llobregat Delta, who will share his knowledge and passion for wildlife, especially **the birds** that inhabit this privileged environment. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to observe different species in their natural habitat. Miguel will provide engaging and informative explanations, creating a pleasant and enjoyable **atmosphere for both curious visitors and nature lovers alike.** This excursion is designed to help you disconnect from your daily routine and reconnect with nature, enjoying vast open spaces of great beauty preserved from human interference, along with the sounds of the wetlands and their rich biodiversity. An enriching, educational, and serene experience—ideal for those seeking knowledge and well-being in a different kind of setting. You can arrive by **car**, as there is parking available, indicated on the map. It is also possible to reach the site by public transport, BUS 46, taken in Barcelona, in Plaza España 😊. We will all meet at the Natural Reserve parking area. **Recommendation:** Bring binoculars, a bird guide, and a water bottle (not essential). **About** **the** **Guide**: Miguel has received the Prince of Asturias Award in ecology and recognition from the World Wildlife Fund Spain for his zoological studies. His work “Introduction to an Ecological Study of the Llobregat Delta” led to the creation of the Natural Reserves of this Delta, which earned him the Philips Netherlands Award. He is the world’s leading expert on Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente, with four books published. Whatsapp Group event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/I7uhLkdjSWZJ9diM3ec1jZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/I7uhLkdjSWZJ9diM3ec1jZ)

A relaxed morning walk through the hills of Horta, followed by a vermouth at The White Villa overlooking Barcelona. The experience begins with a **guided hike across the miradores of Horta**, offering open views over the city and a natural escape just a few minutes from Barcelona. A gentle route designed to enjoy the landscape, move the body and connect with others in a calm and social atmosphere. The walk includes around **150 meters of elevation** and lasts approximately **1–2 hours**, at an easy and accessible pace. After the hike, we arrive at **The White Villa**, where the experience continues with a **vermouth on the terrace**, surrounded by plants and views over Barcelona and Tibidabo. We’ll serve a **traditional vermouth**, accompanied by **olives and crisps (patatas)** — a simple and classic way to enjoy the moment together. A time to relax, share and enjoy the late morning above the city. A moment to relax, share and enjoy the late morning together. This is not a sports activity. It’s a **social and easygoing experience**, designed to combine nature, conversation and a unique setting above the city. **Ideal for:** – Expats and internationals – Newcomers to Barcelona – People who enjoy nature and light activity – Anyone looking for a different Saturday morning plan 📍 Meeting point: Mirador d'Horta End point: The White Villa Small group (around 20 people) to keep a balanced and friendly atmosphere — easy to meet people, even if you come on your own. **The experience includes:** – Guided hike through Horta viewpoints – 1 vermouth at The White Villa – Access to the terraces and views Reservation required to secure your place. Nature, movement and conversation above Barcelona. Limited access to preserve the atmosphere. Location and price: +34 600 41 67 80 **[Reserve your spot](https://tally.so/r/9qvk6K)**

\*Note: if this is your first member's event with us, confirmation is **required** by clicking [HERE](https://forms.gle/9AKw678SNqQpQpbJ8) (Google form to get your name) Our May members' meet is going to be **a potluck picnic with a self-organized performance** in Jardins de Joan Maragall. We will meet at the location in the picture -the amphitheatre behind the sculpture of La Serena-. We will meet and greet, share food and drinks on a picnic and we will take turns to climb up the stage in the picture to share a poem, short story, piece of news, performance, etc... with the rest of the attendees. There is no need to read something that you wrote, it can be by someone else. There is no pressure to share either, it is fine to just listen too. At the end, we will reflect on the value of resting and on the art what we have shared and created together. If you are coming, please share in the chat below what will you be bringing for the picnic! Let's try and make a balanced and varied menu. **Do you know who we are and what we do?** If not, keep reading below 👀 Join the Environmental Social Association of Barcelona, *ESAlogika,* for our *monthly* *meet with the community members* to share news and updates, chat about sustainability and life in Barcelona, and dive deeper into different topics through fun engaging activities in a small group environment 🌍💖 First time? Try it **for free!** If you're not yet a member, but interested in this event, you can attend for free as a trial. **IMPORTANT: Attendance confirmation is required via the [Google form](https://forms.gle/9AKw678SNqQpQpbJ8).** Membership: €28/ year All funds are used to run the association, which is a non profit organisation. \*If you've never been to *Tapa Talks*, you can view our past events to see what it's all about! More photos and vids on our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/esalogika/)!

Hola a tod@s, En esta ocasión recuperamos una de las charlas que dieron origen a estos encuentros y qué, en mi humilde opinión, es una de las mejores por lo que tiene de sorprendente. Titulo de esta sesión: LA LEYENDA DE LA MUERTE BLANCA En esta sesión os invito a conocer la historia de 'La Muerte Blanca', considerado el francotirador más letal de la historia. Con él nos adentraremos en una guerra prácticamente desconocida, la que enfrentaría a la pequeña Finlandia con la todopoderosa Unión Soviética en 1939. No es una sesión de historia militar, si he escogido este personaje y este conflicto es porque tiene elementos sorprendentes e interesantes para todos los públicos. Además esta charla te permitirá entender de forma indirecta muchas cosas que tienen que ver con la invasión rusa de Ucrania o la trascendencia de que Finlandia haya decidido finalmente entrar en la OTAN y porqué no lo había hecho antes RESUMEN DEL PLAN: 11.30 Charla LA LEYENDA DE LA MUERTE BLANCA A cargo de Miguel Garau, (Doctor en Historia Contemporánea y animador de este grupo de meet up) Duración de la charla: 60-75 minutos A continuación preguntas y tertulia abierta Lugar: En el primer piso del mítico Café la Opera (Las Ramblas). Sala reservada exclusivamente para nosotros, donde podrías disfrutar de una bebida mientras escucháis Aforo limitado. Por favor se ruega compromiso, si no vais a venir desapuntaos previamente. Precio: 14 Eu (consumición aparte) Muchas gracias de antemano a tod@s, ¡Os espero! Miguel

A social barbecue in a private Mediterranean villa overlooking Barcelona. An outdoor gathering designed around sun, pool and shared tables in a carefully curated setting in Horta. A relaxed weekend plan created to connect international and local people in a balanced and welcoming atmosphere. Grilled meat and vegetarian options prepared on site, Mediterranean dishes and refreshing drinks served throughout the event. Everything designed to enjoy the afternoon slowly, without rush, surrounded by open views and greenery. This is not a mass gathering. It’s a private event with limited capacity to maintain quality, comfort and atmosphere. The experience includes food and drinks during the event. **Ideal for:** – Expats and internationals living in Barcelona – Newcomers to the city – Those looking to expand their social circle – Anyone wanting a different weekend plan away from the centre 📍 Private villa in Barcelona Exact address shared after confirmation Reservation required to secure your place. Sun, fire and conversation in a terrace house with pool and skyline views. Limited access to preserve the atmosphere. Location and price: +34 600 41 67 80

**El domingo 31 de mayo, a partir de las 15h hasta las 18h**, hacemos un karaoke poligloto. Podemos cantar en castellano, catalán, inglés, japonés, chino, etc. Podemos usar dos máquinas de karaoke. Una está en la sala privada (donde caben 18 personas) y la otra está en la zona pública abierta exclusivamente para nosotros. **Entrada : 6 euros en efectivo (no aceptan las tarjetas ni bizum)** **Puedes entrar cuando quieras entre las 15h y las 18h.** A las 18h tendremos que salir de la sala privada pero podremos cenar y beber en la zona pública, donde por supuesto podremos seguir haciendo karaoke. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **5月31日、日曜日、15時から18時まで**カラオケをします。**費用は一人当たり現金で6ユーロです。** 18人ぐらい入れるプライベートだけでなく、パブリックゾーンも私たちが占有できますので、カラオケの機械は2台使えます。30人いても、2ヶ所を3時間使えますので、計算上、1人がゆったり2～3曲は歌えます。 15時から18時までの間、好きな時間に入れます。18時からはルームは使えませんが、パブリックゾーンで引き続き、飲食とカラオケができます。 日本語、スペイン語、カタルーニャ語、中国語、英語などで歌えます。 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **5月31日，我们有一个卡拉OK的活动从下午3点到6点**，卡拉OK可以选择多种语言的歌唱。例如西班牙语、加泰罗尼亚语、英语、日语、中文等多种语言。 我们预定了整个餐厅可以唱歌，一个在公共的大厅，另一个是一个大单间，同时可能多人一起歌唱。 **场地费：6欧元（包餐厅唱歌的费用）只接受现金（不接受信用卡或Bizum）** 你可以从下午3点到下午6点之间任何时间随时来我们的活动，下午6点以后，我们也可以在大厅继续唱歌，也能够在大堂吃晚餐和喝酒，聊天。。。 ※※※※※※ Organizamos un gran evento de karaoke que dura 3 horas cada 1 o 2 meses. Se hace un sábado o domingo, de 15:00 a 18:00. * **[MUNDIÑOL KARAOKE](https://magradacatalunya.com/karaoke/karaoke.html)** * **[バルセロナでカラオケ](https://magradacatalunya.com/karaoke/karaoke-ja.html)** * **[巴塞罗那卡拉OK群](https://magradacatalunya.com/karaoke/karaoke-zh.html)** ※※※※※※ **Cada lunes, miércoles y viernes** nos reunimos en Barcelona para aprender, practicar y enseñar idiomas europeos y asiáticos tales como castellano, catalán, francés, japonés, chino, coreano, etc. * **[Comunidad Asiática en Barcelona](https://magradacatalunya.com/#Intercambio-de-idiomas)** * **[Exploración Cultural y Lingüística](https://magradacatalunya.com/barcelona/linguist/#language-exchange)** * **[让我们在巴塞罗那相见！](https://magradacatalunya.com/barcelona/chinese.html)** * **[バルセロナで会いましょう！](https://magradacatalunya.com/barcelona/japanese.html)** ※※※※※※

Buenas de nuevo a los gatos curiosos! Después de un parón forzoso, por causa mayor, vamos a reiniciar de nuevo las actividades con la exposición del CCCB " Pensar la belleza". **Una exposición que ofrece un recorrido crítico por la trayectoria de los diferentes cánones de belleza a lo largo de la historia**. De forma interactiva , os animo a que veamos ( visita comentada con auriculares) , cómo la industria de la cosmética, el diseño y la comercialización de productos condicionan la visión sobre nuestro propio cuerpo. **La entrada a la exposición es gratuita ese día porque son puertas abiertas.** **Después se puede ir a tomar un fresco para comentar la exposición.** Os espero en la entrada del centro de cultura contemporánea de Barcelona el domingo 31 de junio a las 11:10.

**Explora la Barcelona más antigua y descubre sus secretos mejor guardados.** Acompáñanos en un recorrido fascinante por el casco antiguo de la ciudad condal, donde la historia cobra vida en cada rincón. Durante aproximadamente 1 hora y 45 minutos, caminaremos por calles que han sido testigo de siglos de acontecimientos, desde la época medieval hasta nuestros días. Visitaremos algunos de los lugares más emblemáticos como **la Catedral de Barcelona, la Generalitat de Catalunya, la Catedral del Mar, el Born**, y finalizaremos nuestro viaje en el majestuoso **Arc de Triomf**. Este tour está pensado para los amantes de la historia y para los curiosos de corazón❤️​: **te compartiremos datos sorprendentes y anécdotas que te harán ver Barcelona con nuevos ojos.** 🗣 **Idioma:** Español/Català 🙋‍♀️​ **Guía:** Mia Soria 🕰 **Duración:** 1h 45min aprox. 💶 **Precio:** 10 € por persona 💳 **Pago al comienzo del tour en efectivo o vía Bizum** 📍 **Punto de encuentro:** Catedral de Barcelona 📍 **Punto final:** Arc de Triomf *Al finalizar el recorrido, te invitamos a quedarte a tomar algo si te apetece. Será un momento ideal para resolver dudas, compartir conocimientos históricos y disfrutar de un intercambio cultural en un ambiente relajado.* 🍻​ ¿Te animas a redescubrir Barcelona con nosotros?

PARK LOCATION: WE WILL BE SEATED EXACTLY TO THE LEFT OF THE PARLAMENT BUILDING ON THE GRASSY LAWN. Here you can see the exact spot on map: [Link to location](https://maps.app.goo.gl/KnWdQCe9W8ANupwt5) Do you have a hunger for a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you? Do you value deep, honest and respectful dialogue? If yes, then you will enjoy this event. We ask, answer and discuss questions and ideas to stimulate critical thinking and to widen our perspectives with new concepts and thoughts. The main purpose of these meetups is to enrich ourselves with the perspectives of others, not to convince others about our own perspectives. Our meetups are about our own philosophies of life and not necessarily what the great philosophers and academics have said or written. It is not a debating club or a platform for proselytizing. Instead, we place the emphasis on questioning, open mindedness and challenging our own assumptions while listening to and respecting the views shared by others. A Socrates Café meetup is considered a success when participants leave a discussion with many more questions than they had at the beginning. WHAT TOPICS ARE DISCUSSED AT THE MEETUP? Participants suggest topics at the beginning of each meeting. We then vote and choose that event's most popular topic for discussion. No academic training in philosophy necessary; just enthusiasm for exchanging ideas and points of view. Some examples of subjects chosen on previous meetups: What ideals are worth dying for? Why are we never satisfied? Why is it that human beings know that the society is going wrong, leaders are well informed about it and things continue as is? Is identity necessary? How can it be that people in democratic societies are so obsessed with power? (Desire to be different, better, stronger than others) What is friendship? EVERYONE AND ANYONE IS WELCOME The inspiration for Socrates Cafe originates with the book of the same name, written by the philosopher Christopher Phillips. (Socrates Cafe: A Fresh Taste of Philosophy, 2002). Phillips felt that the Socratic method of dialogue and discussion should be practiced not just in academic settings, but among everyday people interested in examining deep questions together. Hundreds of Socrates Cafe groups now exist around the world. To learn more, visit https://socratescafe.com.

http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/9/6/600_348310902.jpeg Instructor - Crow, HPS Class fee is $30 at the door or approved exchange RSVP with Advance pay of $25 (discounted) by PayPal on the web or by contacting Enchanted Elements (614) 437-2642. Reservations made directly to Enchanted Elements will be added to the class list manually not online. Private Instruction ~ Closed to the Public ~ Initiated Members Only Please come prepared for ritual. Blessings ~ Crow

Westerville Pride Festival Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information! Location and other info will be announced soon :)

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

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

Christians in Tech is a community at the intersection of faith and technology. Our meetups are designed to spark meaningful conversations, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage growth—both in your career and your spiritual walk with God. Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting your tech journey, CIT welcomes you. Our Website [https://linktr.ee/citcbus](https://linktr.ee/citcbus) Sponsors and Partners * Improving (Venue Sponsor) * Bethel World Prayer Center (Fiscal Sponsor) * Fruits & Roots (Coffee Partner)

**History** [Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places. The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails. Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century. The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988. In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous. **Where We'll Meet** Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike. Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here. **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular. I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager. BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

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