Dutch Culture

Come exchange Asian Languages that you speak! ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) 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. We have the discretion to decide entry. We will assign tables for represented languages. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. As you all remember well, this event used to bring out hundreds of people every week. However, it was discontinued last year for obvious reasons and we couldn't gather that many people now, because of restrictions. Hence, we are downsizing and caping the number of attendees. We have super limited spots and advance ticket purchase is required. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. 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. 8. 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). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. You ought to have register on Meetup for a free entry\. Otherwise\, you will be subject to a cover charge\. 11. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speaker\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\. 12.

Join us for an evening of world-class jazz at The Kosciuszko Foundation Washington, DC Center as we celebrate our valued members with a special performance by internationally acclaimed Polish pianist Mateusz Kolakowski, presented by Robert Swistelnicki. **Friday, June 12** **6:30 PM** **The Kosciuszko Foundation Washington, DC Center** **2025 O Street NW, Washington, DC 20036** A remarkable artist whose career spans prestigious concert halls and jazz festivals across Europe, the United States, Cuba, India, and Kenya, Mateusz Kolakowski is known for his extraordinary fusion of classical virtuosity and contemporary jazz innovation. His expressive improvisations, lyrical sensitivity, and dynamic artistry have captivated audiences worldwide. Kolakowski has performed at renowned venues including The Knitting Factory in New York, The Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles, and the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland, sharing stages with celebrated artists such as Stanley Jordan and collaborating with jazz legend Dave Liebman. The evening will be hosted by Polish lyricist, composer, philosopher, and multi-instrumentalist Robert Swistelnicki, whose groundbreaking jazz-poetic projects have earned critical acclaim and recognition as some of the most innovative contributions to contemporary Polish jazz. Wine and refreshments will be served. Tickets **• $25 General Admission for Non-Members [HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/friday-jazz-soiree-presenting-mateusz-kolakowski-piano-tickets-1990664783956?aff=oddtdtcreator)** • FREE for Kosciuszko Foundation Members (RSVP required: KFDC@thekf.org) Whether you're a devoted jazz enthusiast or simply looking for a summer evening filled with exceptional live music, this intimate concert promises a truly inspiring experience. Not yet a member? Join today and enjoy complimentary admission to this special event, along with year-round access to KF programs and benefits. Become a KF member **[HERE](https://thekf.org/become-a-member/)** We look forward to celebrating with you!

Like last year, The Nordic Connection-Washington D.C. will hold an unofficial Meetup event inviting people from across the Nordic Culture and Language Exchange Group, Nordic Film Club, the Nordic clubs, and really anyone who just wants to hang out at this cool event. Look for a black wagon with Nordic flags (printed off) and flower buckets in the grassy area in front of the outdoor stage and back before the Washington monument (closer to the path). We will have flowers and supplies for making our own flower crowns, snacks to share, and strawberry cake (or at least cake with strawberries if the temperature is beyond saving a strawberry cake!). The event is 6pm-9:30pm but feel free to drop by when you like and leave when you like. You don’t need to RSVP, but if you do we’ll keep an eye out for you! The Swedish Ambassador posted yesterday that the event will be rain or shine (“just like in Sweden”). Taking Metro is advisable due to other events (UFC, World Cup Fan Zone) and road closures. Contact Christine (Knight) 410 375-6417 with questions or to find us tonight.

To Attend: 1. RSVP; then 2. Register at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051) Experience a unique African cultural evening on foreign soil as we travel halfway across the world without ever leaving the DMV. Join us for a special night of Angolan food, drinks, music, cultural dancing, diplomats, film, and more! Dress semi-smart business casual and enjoy this unique party with the Ambassador and his staff at this African treasure. Featuring: 1. **Angolan Buffet** 2. **Bar:** Sample the best and most unique African beverages. 3. **Special Native Angolan Presentation:** Celebrate the hits from an Angolan DJ and a performance by Angolan Dancers! Dance Lessons and late evening dancing are encouraged! 4. **Diplomatic Greeting:** Hear from the HE Agostinho de Carvalho dos Santos Van-Dúnem and feel free to schmooze with the diplomatic staff from Angola **5\. Angolan Art:** Throughout the Embassy, the Embassy has arranged for the presentation of special African artifacts and paintings unseen by most Americans’ eyes 6. **Angolan Cultural Film:** At your leisure, you are invited to watch recurring films showcasing cities, mountains, borders, landscape, people, tribes, animals (esp. their gorillas), safari tours, everyday culture, and much more. Note: The *event is presented as a cultural event organized by us at the Embassy of Angola. Your registration fee is used by Things to do DC solely to present diverse cultural events to our membership. No part of the admission fee is related in any way to the Embassy of Angola or staff at the Embassy of Angola. We appreciate your support of our events!* ## Suggested Attire Business Casual. Preppy at a Minimum. (Jeans, Tee Shirts, Sneakers or other Casual Wear are not Acceptable) To Attend: 1. RSVP; then 2. Register at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051)

It is irresistible, to enjoy a Spanish and Portuguese convo with appetizers, glass of wine and rail drinks. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) 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. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. 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. 8. 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)). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\. ***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

📅 Sunday, June 14th 🕚 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Join us in the spirit of Juneteenth for a meaningful and inspiring visit to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. I’ve visited this museum on several occasions, and every time I walk away amazed by the rich culture, powerful stories, and incredible history housed within this beautiful museum. From historical exhibits to music, art, sports, and cultural contributions, there is always something new to discover and reflect upon. This will be a relaxed group outing where we can explore the museum together, connect with one another, and celebrate the significance of Juneteenth through education, culture, and community. 📍 We will establish a meeting point upon arrival. After touring the museum, those interested can join us at the wonderful Sweet Home Café located inside the museum for food, conversation, and fellowship. 🎟️ IMPORTANT: The museum requires FREE timed-entry passes for admission. Please reserve your tickets in advance using the link below: Please be sure to select 11AM time [https://tickets.si.edu/nmaahc/events/4561cfa0-226f-6a98-2228-1b72ec70494f](https://tickets.si.edu/nmaahc/events/4561cfa0-226f-6a98-2228-1b72ec70494f) 🚗 Parking & Transportation Options: • Limited street parking may be available nearby on Sundays • Paid parking garages are available throughout the National Mall area • Recommended garages include spots near the Wharf, L’Enfant Plaza, and Federal Triangle • Metro is highly encouraged: * Smithsonian Metro Station (Blue/Orange/Silver Lines) * Federal Triangle Metro Station is also within walking distance Whether this is your first visit or you’ve been before, this is a wonderful opportunity to experience one of the most impactful museums in Washington, DC with an amazing group of people. We look forward to sharing this meaningful experience together! ❤️

Come watch Netherlands, currently ranked #7 in the world behind Brazil, take on Japan on **[Sunday, June 14th at 4pm at Wunder Garten](https://www.volosports.com/d/7d26d0e8-3cc9-4460-be7b-89b748d05eff).** **What you can expect:** Great soccer and vibes 🍺 **2 Free** Anheuser-Busch products **Limited edition World Cup merchandise for the first 20 players** 🔥 Exclusive, soccer themed Volo Pass swag (Members Only, [sign up here](https://www.volosports.com/volo-pass)) Bring your friends, wear your Netherlands or Japan gear, and come ready to celebrate, cheer, and enjoy the game together! Note: General admission and entry to Wunder Garten is free, but the immersive Volo experience and perks are available only this registration.

Let's enjoy a delicious Egyptian lunch! From the beginning, Fava Pot kept their eyes on the prize: serving the best of healthy, home-style Egyptian cuisine in an atmosphere that would make their customers feel like they were amongst a family. They do this by sourcing high-quality ingredients to cook their authentic meals. That means serving locally sourced foods such as chicken and game hens that are antibiotic-free and succulent meats that are grass-fed. And they also offer what more and more of our customers were asking for: delicious vegetarian and gluten-free options. Their motto has always been Eat Healthy for a Good Cause -through every purchase you make, they give back to Egyptian orphans in need. There is lots of free parking!

Even though this is posted as a meetup event, this is a self-guided experience, we wont be walking as a group. Let's visit the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, one of Washington's most beautiful and underrated landmarks. We'll explore the monastery's stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, catacombs, grottos, and replicas of famous Holy Land sites. Often described as a hidden oasis in the city, this unique destination offers a fascinating blend of history, art, culture, and tranquility. Whether you're interested in architecture, photography, spirituality, history, or simply discovering new places and meeting great people, you're welcome to join us. **Cost:** Free **Who can attend:** Everyone is welcome, regardless of faith background. Please dress respectfully, as this is an active religious site. ### What makes it unique? * **A "Holy Land in America"** – It was created so Americans could experience replicas of important Christian sites in Jerusalem and the Holy Land without traveling overseas. * **Underground catacombs** – Few places in DC have catacombs. Walking through them feels like stepping into another era. * **Hidden gardens and grottos** – The 40+ acre grounds are filled with rose gardens, quiet pathways, fountains, and secluded prayer spaces. Many visitors are surprised such a peaceful retreat exists in the middle of the city. * **Architectural variety** – The monastery combines elements inspired by churches and shrines from the Middle East, Europe, and early Christianity. * **A living monastery** – Franciscan friars still live and worship there, so it is not just a museum or historic site. ### Why is it historically important? * The Franciscans have been custodians of many Christian holy sites in the Holy Land for nearly 800 years. * The monastery was founded in the late 1800s as the American headquarters supporting those missions. * It helped make pilgrimage experiences accessible to people who could not afford the long journey to Jerusalem. ### Why do non-religious visitors enjoy it? Even if you're not religious, the monastery offers: * Beautiful architecture and art * Excellent photography opportunities * A fascinating glimpse into history and world cultures * One of the quietest and most serene places in DC * A chance to explore hidden tunnels, chapels, and gardens that most tourists never see Many people visit expecting a church and leave feeling like they've discovered a secret European monastery tucked away in Washington. That's why it is often described as one of DC's most underrated attractions.

We're playing pickleball. Come, play, and meet some new friends. If you don't know how to play, we'll teach you. We have balls and a couple extra paddles. Please bring your own, if you have one. We'll get lunch and drinks afterwards. See you there!

Come exchange Asian Languages that you speak! ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) 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. We have the discretion to decide entry. We will assign tables for represented languages. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. As you all remember well, this event used to bring out hundreds of people every week. However, it was discontinued last year for obvious reasons and we couldn't gather that many people now, because of restrictions. Hence, we are downsizing and caping the number of attendees. We have super limited spots and advance ticket purchase is required. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. 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. 8. 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). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. You ought to have register on Meetup for a free entry\. Otherwise\, you will be subject to a cover charge\. 11. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speaker\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\. 12.

It is irresistible, to enjoy a Spanish and Portuguese convo with appetizers, glass of wine and rail drinks. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) 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. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. 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. 8. 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)). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class. ***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** **This dinner in particular will be very special as we celebrate America's 250th birthday. How better to honor a semiquincentennial of democracy that spending an evening practicing it?** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good conversation and deeper community, join us for a Community Dinner in Reston and help blaze the trail to a healthier, more connected society and democracy. Here’s how it works: For just two hours, multiple tables of people set aside the need to "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by experienced table hosts, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. **At this dinner, participants will get to choose between three different topics, including some current events.** Topics range from the political, to the "slice of life", to the spiritual, to the philosophical, to the off-the-wall - but no matter which table you choose to sit at, you can be sure it'll be like no dinner conversation you've had before! You can also **suggest a topic** by emailing us at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com. Food will be provided for free. For those who wish to provide a donation to help fund BreadBreakers, you can [give here](https://pushpay.com/g/restorationrestonumc?fnd=pO6G-N7oO7FH7Mp1u-x6mA&fndv=Lock&r=No&lang=en&src=pcgl) or at the event. We'll have vegetarian and gluten-free options available. If you have any additional dietary restrictions (Celiac Disease, vegan, etc.) please let us know at BreadBreakersInfo@gmail.com so that we can implement the appropriate food handling procedures. **Join us, invite a friend, and be a part of the movement to mend our fractured society and normalize a better way of talking with one another.** BreadBreakers, an initiative by [Restoration United Methodist Church](https://restorationreston.org/breadbreakers) in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community. We are a collaboration between people of all faiths and stripes. Our leadership, volunteer team, and community include people who attend Restoration and people who don't.

Join us for a peaceful and inspiring Saturday morning at Glenstone on Saturday, June 20 at 10:00 AM! Nestled in Potomac, Maryland, Glenstone is a unique destination where art, architecture, and nature blend together in a beautifully designed space meant for reflection and exploration. **Admission tickets are reserved; please only RSVP if you are committed to attending and arriving on time. The ticket entry time is 10 AM.** We’ll spend the morning wandering through the indoor galleries, outdoor sculpture installations, serene walking paths, and landscaped grounds. Expect a relaxing mix of modern and contemporary art, peaceful scenery, and thoughtful conversation with fellow attendees. The campus is quite large, so comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. Many visitors spend 2–4 hours exploring the grounds and exhibits. If people are interested, we can go to lunch afterward. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have Instagram, you can check out our account at asiandiningandadventuregroup for photos and announcements of group outings!

Enjoy a vibrant and engaging dance experience that blends global rhythms and diverse styles. This class combines elements of Bollywood, Latin, and other dance forms into a smooth, easy-to-follow flow designed to get you moving and grooving at a comfortable pace. Perfect for all levels, this class focuses on fun, relaxation, and connection with the music while giving you a gentle workout. Join us for a refreshing and enjoyable dance session! (Please wear socks). Friday, April 10th from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Held at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum – Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Place, Suite 200, Chantilly, VA. **FREE EVENT - Registration Required at [https://shorturl.at/KJoXv](https://shorturl.at/KJoXv)** *Support the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum with your tax-deductible* *contribution.* **[CONTRIBUTE](https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html "https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html")**

Join Storyteller TaraTheBard on a magical storytelling adventure in Bluebeard's Bride, a femme horror tabletop role-playing game published by Magpie Games. In this story-focused game, each participant takes on one aspect (sister) of Bluebeard's Bride from the famous legend: witch, animus, virgin, mother, or fatale. Together you'll navigate Bluebeard's house and the horrors within, at last coming upon a forbidden room. The setting for this story is the year 1776 in Virginia, United States, as the colony experiences its revolution. Unlike the published editions of the game, this session focuses on the topic of empowerment through witchcraft. Because of this, in this session, one participant must occupy the role of witch. This game is friendly for gamers of all experience levels! Safety mechanisms, off-limits topics, character creation, and rules will happen at the start of the session. Please feel free to bring comfort items such as fidget spinners, blankets, or tea. As this is a story tabletop adventure and not a larp, costumes are not required -- however, they are always welcome! Pens, character sheets, and dice, and all game materials are provided. No preparation is required. 18+ only. All genders welcome! Subject matter will not include depictions of SA or slavery, but will explore serious, gender-based subject matter. Because this event is strictly limited to 5 participants, you must register here on Meetup to play. Please be sure to update your registration as soon as possible should you be unable to attend, as there has been a lot of interest in this event. You're welcome to download the core book materials from the publisher for free: https://magpiegames.com/products/play-materials-corebookbbb?_pos=5&_sid=ee39e96dd&_ss=r *Learn more about the game from the publisher here:* https://magpiegames.com/pages/play-bluebeards-bride **Meet your host: Tara!** Tara C. is a storyteller and witch specializing in narrative magic and story-based shadow work. Her professional background includes a career in writing, marketing, live action role play (larp) design, and publishing. Tara holds a BA in English from McDaniel College. Her publications include "American Banshee: Poetic Offerings," co-authorship of "The Poe Project" (a one-man play) and thousands of high-ranking blog posts and articles online. She enjoys spending time with her pug, reading and watching time-traveling romances, and traveling to Iceland.