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This is a unique event. More than 20 embassies from countries that have French speakers will have booths with incredible home-made food and interesting wines and beer. The catch is that it's always packed, but there is always plenty of food. So if you like to sample all kinds of foods, enjoy dancing, and don't mind the crowds and the splurge (around $60 including food, and drinks for the first two hours), it is a yummy, fun-filled party with a distinct French accent! I waited a couple days to post to make sure tickets are still available. It usually sells out pretty quickly. **\*\*Here is [the link](https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/2026lgf?utm_source=wordfly&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MAR26eMLaGrandeFete3.2.26&utm_content=version_A&promo=287221) to buy the tickets.\*\*** Also it's not a walk-around-with-the-group kind of event, though we will try to meet up later in the evening when the live musical entertainment starts. Just too crowded. The key is to get in line outside as early as possible - by 6 pm if you can. That will give you about 30 minutes of access to all the food booths before it gets nuts. The annual month-long Francophonie Cultural Festival spotlights the music, art, literature, film, cuisine, and customs of French-speaking countries and regions from across the globe. One of the celebration’s highlights, La Grande Fête is always *magnifique*, and this year’s bash is no exception. The don’t-miss event is your passport for a world tour of francophone cultures. Starting at 7 p.m., sample food and drink from more than 20 embassies as you explore each nation’s unique attractions and traditions. Participating organizations and countries include France, Belgium, Guinea, Canada, Gabon, Kosovo, Côte d’Ivoire, Morocco, French-American Chamber of Commerce, Tunisia, Québec, Central African Republic, Alliance Française of Washington, DC, Democratic Republic of the Congo—and that’s just the start of the growing list. This year’s live entertainment features TBD.

Title: Frontrunners, the Mid-Atlantic's AI conference! You're invited to the Frontrunners AI conference, March 27th, in Arlington, VA at GMU's Van Metre Hall. Frontrunners will be a single day tech conference this year featuring AI and data topics. You can read all about Frontrunners here: [Frontrunners](https://frontrunners.tech/) If you want to speak at Frontrunners, submit your talk here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSedNNa4N64vgfsvAtGcBngKJrtd3h1_x0T019GTW-rSwCj0jQ/viewform This is a paid event, so you will have to register at the Frontrunners AI site or at the direct registration link is as follows (but please also RSVP on this meetup to help us reach others): https://frontrunners.ticketspice.com/frontrunners-2026 Thanks. We hope to see you there.

This is our monthly guy’s happy hour, a relaxed spot to grab a drink, meet new guys, and see what Choros is all about. Choros is a men’s social app that connects small groups of guys around DC for real-world hangs like trivia, hikes, TopGolf, board games, and brewery nights. RSVP here, then [fill out our quick questionnaire](https://form.typeform.com/to/DTAHl4GL) to join the app. The address and details for the happy hour will be shared inside the app once you’re in. We keep events small and intentional so it’s easy to actually meet people. No networking, no awkward mixers, just good dudes, good conversations, and a better way to make friends in DC.

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with **"I Accept"** to be permitted on the hike. **5.6 mile loop with a 685 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 7 miles. (400ft gain = 1 mile)** **\*\* This hike is limited to 20 participants per park no permit regulations.**\*\* **Description:** **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)is truly a **gem** in our **nation's capital**. This **1,754 acre city park** was officially authorized in **1890**, making it the **third national park**. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals. Military Road divides the park into North and South This hike starts from the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (closed Mon/Tues) and heads **east** and then **south** following the **creek** to the **[Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**, the **[Rock Creek Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)** and finally to the **[Western Ridge Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** through **[Pierce Mill](https://www.nps.gov/places/peirce-mill.htm)** and then back to the **[Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)**. **Pace**: pace is about **2.-2.7 mph** while moving. **Bring:** adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots. **Dogs:** Dogs are **not** welcome on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).** **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/4977d84136752e007d09245dc605351849a561f839bb8c7d002ae55470e11441).** **Meetup Location:** we will meet in the parking lot of the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (Closed Monday and Tuesdays) at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015 GPS Coordinates : **38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W. Please arrive by 9:45 am to get signed in in time to start the hike at 10 am.** **Rock Creek Park** **[Map of Hike](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)** **[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)** **[Map of Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** **Questions:** feel free to text/call me, Dawn, at 703 533 9231

**THE POWER OF THE SUBCONSCIOUS OVER YOU** You are welcome to arrive 15 minutes early for refreshments! At the lecture "The Power of the Subconscious", the speaker will clearly and understandably explain topics such as: What is the exact definition of the Subconscious Mind? How does it inflict unwanted feelings and anxiety in you? What determines how much pressure it exerts on a person? What exactly is the goal of the subconscious? This is not just a lecture where you sit quietly and listen. It's interactive and LIVE, so you can ask questions at any time. And the most important topic: **HOW DO YOU TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR SUBCOUNSCIOUS!** This group is sponsored by the Dianetics Life Improvement Center.

Hey Poetry Lovers! This group is on a roll. Here’s the gist: We meet at the **Capital One Café in Chinatown** from **12pm - 2pm** every other week. For enrichment, we start by reading and reflecting on a **“published poem”**, suggested by someone in the group. No advance preparation is necessary. But feel free to check out some of the poems we’ve read [here](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/e/2PACX-1vSyE_wCLQCPHRrKmN5F9tOIeeRQUZESxjRXGVBoCF2uU8Gm0_d0uECiCBCQXEy6ksxfsBOhtRIOpW3T/pubhtml?gid=0&single=true&widget=true&headers=false%22%3E%3C/iframe%3E). Or submit suggestions for future meetings [here](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSexGc2Z2Kp6bZW0D3_hfJ7NUUkfNHf7TXX-43FglCeBd9EF2Q/viewform?usp=send_form). Next, we **share our work and offer feedback**. Depending on attendance, everyone gets \~10 minutes to use as they like. (No need to share, though; you’re welcome to come even if you prefer just to listen.) We maintain a **Discord server** to help share our work and communicate outside our bi-weekly meet-ups. If you haven’t used Discord before, take a moment to download it and create an account before arriving. When we meet you on Saturday, we will add you to our server, the “DC Poetry Workshop”, and can help you navigate the app if you have questions. Finally, if you plan on sharing a poem, consider how you will do so. Some options include: * Print 5-10 copies to distribute in person * Take and share screenshots in the Discord chat. * Copy the poem into a google doc, change sharing settings to “anyone with link”, and copy the google doc link into the Discord chat. Most importantly, we’re excited to meet you! Catch you on Saturday, Diego / Ian / Cayden / Nate / Otasha / Lia / An

Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez intermédiaire/avancé ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. ***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. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with a glass of wine, appetizers and drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from intermediate to native fluency. 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 HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING*** [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k](http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Vv1wxZAR1k)

​​**Let's discuss a ted talk video while taking a walk at Capital Crescent Trail Near Bethesda.** **To receive future event updates, register on Luma:** [https://luma.com/tv3fhasq](https://luma.com/tv3fhasq) Have you had your daily dose of fun? It's not just enjoyable, it's also essential for your health and happiness, says science journalist Catherine Price. She proposes a new definition of fun -- what she calls "true fun" -- and shares easy, evidence-backed ways to weave playfulness, flow and connection into your everyday life. ​​​​Here is how it works: * ​​​​​​​Prior to the event: **Please watch this YouTube video:** [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMBJrvEwv8s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMBJrvEwv8s) * ​During the event: * ​​3:30pm-3:45pm: meet outside of [Chopt Salad](https://maps.app.goo.gl/ThxMNixG2TG4T32X6) (Bethesda Row end of Capital Crescent Trail) for group introduction. * ​3:45pm-4:45pm: Take a walk at Capital Crescent Trail (laps between Bethesda Row and Little Falls Parkway) and Discuss. * ​(Walking Route Link: [https://scenic-walk.com/#/b712c5fa ](https://scenic-walk.com/#/b712c5fa)(During the hike, the organizer will live broadcast current location, so that people who arrive late can catch up via the [Scenic Walk Link](https://scenic-walk.com/#/b712c5fa)). * ​4:45pm - 5pm: Group Conclusion outside of Chopt Salad. *** ​​​​Discussion Questions During Walk: \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 1. **True fun is a visceral feeling of being illuminated from within rather than just a leisure activity. How can we better distinguish between activities that merely pass the time and those that truly make us feel radiant?** 2. **Playfulness involves a lighthearted attitude of doing things for their own sake without worrying about the outcome. How might our community change if we collectively lowered our guards and let go of the need for perfection?** 3. **Most peak fun memories involve a shared experience that helps us feel united with others. In a polarized world, how can the pursuit of fun serve as a bridge to connect us as human beings?** 4. **Fun requires a state of flow where we are so engaged that we lose track of time. What environments can we create together that naturally encourage us to be fully present and focused on the moment?** 5. **Prioritizing fun acts as a legitimate health intervention by reducing stress and promoting social bonding. How would we shift our schedules if we viewed joyful moments as essential to our physical and mental well-being?** 6. **Constant digital distractions interrupt our flow and prevent us from forming real-world connections. What boundaries can we set with our devices to ensure we remain available for spontaneous moments of joy?** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- To provide an enjoyable experience for fellow participants, here are three ground rules during discussion events: 1. Step up and step back. (If you feel that you’ve been talking too much, step back to listen more. If you feel that you’ve been relatively quiet, step up to share your perspective or ask a question) 2. Listen to understand, not to respond. 3. Be open-minded and value differences.

This meeting will be dedicated to talking about the entirety of "To The Lighthouse" by Virginia Woolf We will be meeting in the National Portrait Gallery Atrium. To stay up to date with events and discuss meetings or books, you can join our Whatsapp group. Please message me to get added.

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Digital Device Detox,”** a guide to breaking free from the addictive and destructive powers of social media and apps, with Jillian Tucker, licensed clinical social worker in private practice, adjunct professor of clinical social work at Columbia University and New York University, and therapist with nearly 15 years of experience in addiction treatment and behavioral change. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-digital-detox](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/northern-virginia-digital-detox) .] Many of us have had the same experience: We’re trying to get things done and stay focused on the positive in our lives, but we can’t stop looking at a cell phone that tells us that we live in troubled times, that everyone else is better looking and having more fun, and that escape awaits in the worlds of Candy Crush or Pokémon Go. Maybe it’s time to find effective ways to loosen the grip of that cell phone and rediscover the happiness that comes with using digital devices less. Join Jillian Tucker, who previously has given several excellent Profs and Pints talks related to mental health, for a crash course on how to restore balance in your relationship with digital devices to ensure they’re simply tools you use rather than instruments through which other people use you. She’ll start by discussing social and mental-health trends connected to the use of digital devices. We’ll delve into the specific ways that their overuse can be biologically and psychologically harmful and leads to division, depression, anxiety and anguish on an individual and societal level. Professor Tucker also will look at why digital habits are hard to break, citing neuroscience and what we know about behavioral addiction. You’ll learn the many ways in which devices and apps are deliberately designed to be hard to stop using. You won’t be urged to just chuck your cell phone, though. After all, such devices can keep you socially connected, be sources of joy and learning, and even save your life if you need to summon help in an emergency. Instead, we’ll look at effective strategies for reducing digital device use, considering approaches that treat the overuse of such devices as “addiction” but moving beyond them to consider more nuanced ones as well. We’ll explore how to find our core motivation to change and how to carry out a change plan. We’ll consider how those who failed in past attempts to reduce digital-device use can overcome impasses in their effort to change their behavior. We’ll discuss ways to minimize the feelings of inconvenience and withdrawal that might come with reducing digital-device use, and we’ll discuss strategies for regaining the social skills and reviving the in-person strategies that our device use had compromised. You’ll learn how the same conditioning and power of habit that got us using our devices so much more also can be harnessed to help us use them much less. You’ll learn how to curate and enhance the positive aspects of digital devices, to help maintain them as a source of connection, joy, humor and learning and keep them from causing you unhappiness or stress. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Photo by Japanexperterna (Creative Commons).

**Confidence & Connection: Using Your Authentic Truth to Find Your People** Confidence isn’t just about believing in yourself, it’s about knowing where you belong and who you can grow alongside. In this April Confidence Lab Happy Hour, we’ll explore how living in your authentic truth helps you find your people, build meaningful collaborations, and create spaces where vulnerability is met with respect rather than risk. Together, we’ll reflect on what it looks like to advocate for yourself with clarity and care, and how confidence deepens when it’s rooted in connection rather than comparison. Featured speaker **Lachandra Baker**, founder of **[LBB Edutainment](https://www.lbbedutainment.com/)** and author of *Your Own Biggest Cheerleader*, will share reflections on authenticity, psychological safety, and the power of community over individual achievement. Drawing from personal stories—including the significance of turning 53—Lachandra will invite us into a conversation about showing up fully, being seen, and choosing relationships that support who you truly are. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with space for reflection, shared insight, and intentional connection—plus drinks, light bites, and the kind of conversations that remind you you’re not meant to do this alone. Come as you are. Leave feeling clearer about your voice, your people, and the confidence that grows when both are aligned. **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*

**New Dojo Location!** **Draft Day Columbus** 1130 Dublin Road Columbus, OH 43215 We're going to try a new dojo location for a few weeks and see how it works Dojos are informal Python group study sessions where everyone interested in Python gathers to learn about Python, help others with Python, or just hang out. Everyone is welcome from Python beginners to experts. Bringing a laptop is encouraged (we'll have extension cords and power strips). If there's something you want to learn leave a comment on this invite so we can plan ahead. We're looking for topic suggestions and people interested in presenting at our monthly meetings. To this end we've set up a survey form at [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15eBKF1nQQ2XS5gzD4rvhVRHMBEj7lJtHuA9wXupS3Uc](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/15eBKF1nQQ2XS5gzD4rvhVRHMBEj7lJtHuA9wXupS3Uc)

**We are expanding our creative programming opportunities with Queer Quills, a quiet writing and sharing space. Queer Quills features some prompts, supplies and friendly faces to help get some inspiration or feedback for your writing. Hope to see you there!**

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

LICKING COUNTY LIBRARY Author & Artist Julie Zickefoose Saturday, April 11, 2026 1 p.m. Licking County Library 101 W. Main St. | Newark, Ohio Julie Zickefoose: Author, Painter, and Bluebird Extraordinaire Zickefoose is an American nature book writer, naturalist, bird artist, and blogger. She lives in Ohio on an 80-acre wildlife sanctuary, which she said inspires much of her work, including her 2012 novel, The Bluebird Effect: Uncommon Bonds with Common Bird, and NATURAL GARDENING FOR BIRDS The novel is illustrated with 320 of Zickefoose’s colored paintings, life sketches, and drawings, and it was one of Oprah’s 2012 book club reads.