Biodiversity
Meet other local people interested in Biodiversity: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Biodiversity group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out biodiversity events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the biodiversity events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find biodiversity events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Biodiversity Events Today
Join in-person Biodiversity events happening right now
English is easy. Speak however you can.
**Important rules:**
**Event is free.**
BUT:
**15AED Fine on next event** \- If you have made reservation and didn't come and didn't cancel\. You can cancel your registration in our whatsapp chat\.
**15AED** if you come without reservation or stay in waitlist.
Since the event is free It's very important **to make order for some drink** or food and pay for it before you leave cafe.
If you stay in waitlist and want to attend to event for free write me in whatsapp +971 58 8859650
**Topiс for event:**
Ussualy we do not have any special topic for conversation.
But sometimes it good idea to speak on defined topic. You need choose from site **[http://iteslj.org/questions/](http://iteslj.org/questions/)** topic of Conversation Questions and will be ready to answer on several question.
**General information.**
I know, You are afraid that you speak slowly and not so good. If you want to speak fluent, you need to speak every day. You need to listen conversations every day. You need to watch english movies every day.
How long did you learn go by foot? But now it's easy.
You need to speak.
I tell you my little secret. I speak so so. And I want to speak fluent. And I created this event and this group for new english speakers:) Because I know there is complicated to find such meetings for making every day conversation.
Explore More | PADI Advanced Diver Course
**PADI® Advanced Open Water Diver Course**
_“ Seek Adventure , Explore More ”_
Continue your Scuba Diving journey with the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course. Experience new adventures , Fine-tune your buoyancy skills, Build confidence in your navigation abilities, and Try new activities like _wreck diving , night diving, or drift diving._
Your Advanced certification opens the door to dive sites deeper than 18m/60ft and a variety of dive sites you will able to explore .
**PADI AOW Course consists of Two main portions :**
Much easier online study eLearning + Much enjoyable 5 Open Water Dives .
On the first day, you will do three Shore Dives , then we arrange for another day for two Boat Dives , then we can celebrate. 🥳
You may schedule the sessions with your instructor during weekdays or weekends every day or on separate days as the conditions and time permits.
**How can you start and what will you do :**
♡ Booking your course, provide your name , birth date, profile picture, and e-mail.
♡ Redeem the eLearning code received on your email , fill and sign the liability and medical release forms, and start the course in your preferred language.
♡ Your instructor will select with you what you need to read and arrange to schedule your first 3 dives.
♡ Then, you may schedule your other 2 dives on the nearest convenient date.
♡ Once successfully completed all of the requirements the instructor will happily process your certification.
**Requirements , Terms and Conditions :**
● AOW students should have gained an Open Water Diver certificate, be at minimum age of 12 years old , be able to swim and medically fit for diving.
● The course is a complete package , with a duration of 2 days as described.
_We are pleased to answer any further questions and inquiries regarding the course._
See Your Bubbles 🐬
& Many Thanks
Sea Secrets Scuba
seasecrets@yandex.com
IG Sea_Secrets_Scuba
https://instagram.com/sea_secrets_scuba?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ==
+971562050943
Tiger Nest & Dragon Hearts feat. Punakha | NYE in Thimpu + Paro, Bhutan
Famous for its unique culture and stunning landscapes, **Bhutan**, the legendary **Kingdom of the Himalayas**, is a country unlike any other. Often called **the last Shangri-La**, this is a place where time runs slower, and the government operates by the unique philosophy of **Gross National Happiness**.
Many factors contribute to the famed **happiness and contentment** of Bhutan’s population, from the country’s pride in **preserving its traditions**, languages, and customs to the **prioritization of wellbeing** over material wealth. In this land of dense forests and towering mountains, incredible vistas are all around, and a **connection to nature** is deeply ingrained in the culture. In addition, the practice of **Mahayana Buddhism** profoundly influences the Bhutanese way of life, emphasizing inner peace, compassion, and community harmony.
With **stupas and monasteries** on every corner, spirituality is embedded in daily life here. Centuries of religious devotion have led to the creation of incredible landmarks and sacred spaces, including the country’s iconic crown jewel: Taktsang monastery, or **the** **Tiger’s Nest**. One of the most venerated places of pilgrimage in the Himalayas, the monastery appears like something out of a fairy tale, clinging to the rock a towering 800m (2,600ft) above the valley floor.
Nowhere in the Himalayas is the natural environment richer and more diverse than it is in Bhutan, home to high, rugged mountains and deep valleys which have been recognized as one of the world’s ten most important **biodiversity hotspots**. One of Bhutan’s ancient names was Menjong Yul, meaning **‘the land of medicinal herbs’**, and the people’s respect for the natural environment means that even today it remains pristine and mostly undisturbed.
Here we’ll discover ancient spiritual practices, trek into untouched landscapes and feel the awe of nature’s majesty in this hidden corner of the world.
[https://vimeo.com/238777975](https://vimeo.com/238777975)
**Let’s go!**
**DAY 0 :: DEC 28**
Recommended departure to Kathmandu at 02:30-08:20.
**DAY 1 :: DEC 29**
Connecting flight to Bhutan at 09:00-10:20.
On sunny days, the inbound flight to Bhutan is marked by **panoramic views of the Himalayas, including the towering Everest**. The approach through the tiny airstrip of Paro has been termed as “adventurous”, to say the least!
Arrival in the afternoon, after which we’ll check in to the hotel in Thimpu and have our first experience with fiery **Bhutanese cuisine**.
Later we’ll visit Thimphu’s Memorial Stupa, also known as the **Thimphu Chorten**, a prominent religious landmark in the city with its golden spires and bells. Afterwards we’ll take a short 3-4km hike to Kuensel Phodrang, reaching the **gigantic Buddha Dordenma** at the top of the hill. The **50-meter-high, gilt gold** **statue** fulfils an ancient prophecy dating back to the 8th century A.D. and is said to emanate an aura of peace and happiness to the entire world.
Overnight in Thimpu.
**DAY 2 :: DEC 30**
Today we drive via Dochu-La Pass to Punakha and hike to iconic **Chimi Lhakhang (Temple of Fertility),** located on a round hillock on the edge of Punakha Valley.
After lunch our exploration continues with a visit to the majestic **Punakha Dzong fortress**, a stunning example of traditional Bhutanese architecture which serves as a winter residence for the Dratshang Lhentshog, the commission for the monastic affairs of Bhutan. Built in 1637, it is picturesquely located in between two rivers – the **Pho Chhu (Male River) & Mo Chhu (Female River)** – and houses sacred Buddhist relics.
We’ll then take a walk along the **Punakha suspension bridge**, Bhutan’s longest, stretching 180 m (590 ft) across the water of the Pho Chhu, before checking into the hotel and resting up for the evening.
**DAY 3 :: DEC 31**
Today after breakfast and formalities we’ll drive to the **Dochula Pass (3,100m)** and begin the hike to the 18th century **Lungchutse Lhakhang temple (3,565m)**. This uber picturesque route passes through primary forests of rhododendrons, magnolias, birches, and bamboos, and occasionally meadows being used as yak pastures.
When we reach the temple we’ll be richly rewarded by views over the **entire span of Bhutan’s Himalayan range** and its majestic, snow covered peaks. We will then make our way downhill for about an hour until we reach Dochula Pass, encountering several landmarks and stupas along the path.
In the afternoon we will have an opportunity to witness **rural life in Bhutanese village,** and those who would like to can experience a **traditional** **hot stone bath**. For even richer immersion, there is also the option to spend the night in the village.
**Celebration of New Year's Eve Bhutan style!**
**DAY 4 :: JAN 01**
After breakfast we’ll start our last hike, to the sacred **Taktsang Monastery**, known as **the Tiger’s Nest,** situated at an altitude of 3100m in the Upper Paro Valley. During the hike we’ll keep our strength up with a picnic lunch in the woods with spectacular views.
Our ancient destination is the abode of gods and monks, a place of great spiritualty since the 8th century. As per the legend of Taktsang, this was the site of a cave in the sheer cliff face used by mystic Guru Rinpoche for meditation. He assumed a wrathful form, Guru Dorji Drolo, riding a flying tigress to subdue the evil spirits in the area. After many centuries, a religious complex took shape here, clinging to the rock face, with the oldest temple built by a Nyingma Buddhist master around 1508.
**DAY 5 :: JAN 02**
Departure to Kathmandu at 07:00-08:00. Bye bye Bhutan! Optional city tour in Kathmandu before return flight home.
**Level of difficulty:** Easy - short but steep trails. The grade may be perceived as moderate to beginners.
**Activities:** hiking, walking, sightseeing and getting amazed!
Altitude: 2280–3600m,
**Duration:** 5 days.
**Accommodation & meals:**
Comfy 3\* hotels, double sharing. Single room 250 USD extra. Meals included.
**Cost: 7,490 AED incl. flights Kathmandu-Paro-Kathmandu, until DEC 22nd.**
Past this date please inquire about cost and availability.
**Connection from Dubai to Kathmandu - excluded.**
**Trip starts at Kathmandu airport** on DEC 29th with a flight to Paro.
**Specifically included:**
* Return flights Kathmandu - Paro - Kathmandu,
* Bhutan visa,
* All arrangements as per program,
**Specifically excluded:**
* Connecting flights Dubai - Kathmandu,
* Overnight in Kathmandu between the flights,
* activities and meals in Kathmandu,
* any costs related to visa on arrival to Nepal,
* Insurance.
**Optional:**
* Sightseeing Kathmandu on JAN 02 at 85 USD.
**Visas:**
**Visa to Bhutan (SDF) is included in trip budget.**
[Visa to Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Nepal) available on arrival, if required.
See yah in Bhutan x
Trekkup Bhutan Crew
[Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [docs@trekkup.com](info@trekkup.com)
Learn To Dive | PADI Open Water Diver Certification
PADI® Open Water Diver Course
“ Your Diving certification begins here ”
Book Your Course Now with the best training quality 🐠🐟🐡
♡ Start your training sessions in Dubai with your PADI® Elite Instructor with whom you will choose your preferred dates.
♡ Earn your PADI® Open Water Diver certification in 3:4 days and start a lifetime filled with underwater adventures.
Course Overview :
a. Online eLearning : Theoretical Sections, which includes interesting videos & quizzes .
b. Confined Water Dives : Swimming Pool training Dives covering all the required skills .
c. Open Water Dives : Sea Dives for applying the skills learned in the pool.
PADI® Open Water Diver certification is the solid foundation for all the diving adventures , the higher levels of training, and all specialities in Scuba Diving and it is your passport to the underwater world
For booking , pricing, or any further inquiries, please contact :
Captain Mo🦈
PADI Elite Instructor
+971562050943
seasecrets@yandex.com
IG Sea_Secrets_Scuba
See Your Bubbles
& Many Thanks
Coffee & Connections | Dubai
Note: Registration is valid and confirmed only through **: link shared in [WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/D1cTWNPuq8ABDWjSYE3aVM).**
**☕️ Coffee & Connections \| Dubai**
*Sip, Mingle & Connect! 🌟*
👉[ ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Iz9NYHMtijFA6BGgBq51r2)**[Join the WhatsApp group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/D1cTWNPuq8ABDWjSYE3aVM)** to stay updated on the exact location and weekly
Join us for a social coffee meetup where good vibes, friendly faces, and great conversations come together.
Unwind after a long day, meet new people, and enjoy a cozy evening in one of Dubai’s nicest café spots.
📍 Dubai \| Business Bay
🕖 7:00 PM
Come for the coffee, stay for the connections — let’s sip, mingle, and make new friends! 💬✨
Urban Kiz - L2 (Kiz is Life)
Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance to classic & modern tunes.
Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, and reshaped in Portugal. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions!
AED 99 /1 class
AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!)
AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!)
Book your spot NOW!
8 classes
https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn
16 classes
https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw
For enquiries
call/text 055 803 4003
Philosophy over Tea
This is an event for deep thinkers who enjoy deep discussions. No prior knowledge of philosophy is required.
In the first segment of this event, we shall have a group discussion on randomly selected topics.
In the second segment of the event, we shall discuss a short philosophical article after reading it.
Please note that this event has a fee of AED 30.
Biodiversity Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Conversations Over Coffee
Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations.
Register and get more details!
**[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)**
We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶
**Imagine this 👇**
* A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background.
* An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor.
* Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand.
* A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect.
It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection.
Register and get more details!
**[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)**
Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫
**✨ Expect the unexpected:**
* Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing.
* Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet.
* Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over.
So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow.
**Registration**
✅ RSVP on Meetup.
✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)
*Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.*
Happy Coffee 😊
Women-only Cafe Meetups – Local Friends 💬🌆💞 eseek.app
### 💫 Explore Women-Only Experiences on eSeek
View all information at [eseek.app](https://eseek.app).
[https://youtu.be/r7jl_B6NVWg](https://youtu.be/r7jl_B6NVWg)
1️⃣ **Discover your neighborhood** 🗺️
Explore a local map and send coffee invites ☕💌 to women who live near you.
2️⃣ **Luxury coffee spots in Dubai** ✨☕
Browse a curated list of Dubai’s most luxurious cafés, complete with YouTube videos 🎥 and distance info and map pin 📍.
3️⃣ **Match over coffee** 💖☕
Like the coffee places you want to visit, and we’ll show you women who liked the same spots—start a DM and plan a coffee meetup 💬✨.
4️⃣ **Weekend coffee experiences** 🗓️☕
Every weekend, we schedule the top 2 most popular picks with date, time, location, and map marker 📍. Join the group chat and enjoy the experience together 🎉👯♀️.
We are trying cafe meetups for women only - we have introduced facial recognition to ensure women only signups for now.
[https://www.instagram.com/p/DRVZDxFDOKu/](https://www.instagram.com/p/DRVZDxFDOKu/)
Join the whatsapp group for explanation 🚨 WOMEN ONLY 🚨[https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2xOAwT29rul521?mode=wwt](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CdjIbmHx2xOAwT29rul521?mode=wwt)
***
Coffee Connect: A cozy evening of coffee, community & conversations
Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations.
Register and get more details!
**[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)**
We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶
**Imagine this 👇**
* A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background.
* An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor.
* Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand.
* A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect.
It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection.
Register and get more details!
**[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)**
Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫
**✨ Expect the unexpected:**
* Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing.
* Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet.
* Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over.
So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow.
**Registration**
✅ RSVP on Meetup.
✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)
*Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.*
Happy Coffee 😊
Sustainability Run Club
Join us every second Sunday
From January 3 to April
A biweekly Run Club for Sustainability Professionals — designed for all abilities and all paces.
This isn’t about speed. It’s about connection.
Our goal is to bring sustainability professionals together to:
• Network in a relaxed, non-corporate setting
• Move together while discussing ideas that matter
• Build meaningful collaborations
• Strengthen the sustainability ecosystem in the UAE
Whether you walk, jog, or run — you belong here.
Let’s move with purpose and build something impactful together
Personal Experiment: Corporate Blockchain Future
Hi, I’m Patrik 👋
This is a spontaneous experiment born from a crazy idea and a long-standing **passion** for blockchain. 🚀 Working in a Leadership Role in a large AI Platform Company, I’m exploring what a next role in the blockchain industry and corporate use cases could look like – and how blockchain can seriously reshape real-world business processes, not just live in whitepapers.
At the same time, AI is already disrupting how projects get delivered: small, sharp teams are starting to outperform big legacy players with ultra‑efficient, AI-augmented services. ⚙️🤖 That collision of Blockchain × AI × Project Delivery is exactly the space I want to think, debate, and brainstorm in – together with people who feel the same pull.
If you’re curious, ambitious, and up for an honest, no‑BS conversation in a small group, this meetup is for you. 💬🔥 Bring your ideas, questions, and half-baked thoughts – let’s see what we can build from them.
Join our Whatsapp Group to get more details and the location: https://chat.whatsapp.com/CH47tTQqCwv7pZ3eBgpF5K
Free Intermediate Hike: Wadi Tayyibah Springs
Wander through a lush wadi with date palms, running springs, and small pools on a **5 km** loop (about **2 h**). Children and beginners will love the greenery and sound of flowing water. Meet at **06:00 AM** at the trailhead; bring water, snacks, quick‑dry shoes or sandals, and be prepared for some light rock hopping. Join at your own risk.
**General guidelines (apply to all events):**
* **Arrive by 05:55 AM** to meet the group and depart at 06:00 AM.
* Carry **2–3 L of water**, snacks or a light breakfast, a hat, sunscreen, and a small first‑aid kit.
* Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip; trekking poles are optional for longer hikes.
* Inform a friend or family member of your plans and check weather forecasts (avoid wadis after heavy rain).
* This is a **free, peer‑led group**; everyone is responsible for their own safety and participation is at your **own risk**.
\*\*Please join the Whatsapp Group for carpooling/coordination (optional)\*\*[https://chat.whatsapp.com/G8dODdCiBMrC5jiholOK6X](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G8dODdCiBMrC5jiholOK6X)
Salam Saudi | Journey Across Western Saudi
Before becoming modern day Saudi Arabia, this land consisted of four distinct historical regions: Hejaz, Najd, and parts of Eastern Arabia (Al Ahsa) and Southern Arabia (‘Asir). These regions made up the Arabian Peninsula, that over centuries have played an important role in history as an ancient trade centre, the **birthplace of one of the world’s three major monotheistic religions**, and our roots as a species.
About two-thousand years ago, the **Nabatean Empire – the most prominent civilization in the Arabian Peninsula at the time** – took control of local trade routes, developing their settlements into cities. They excelled at carving rocks made of sand, and eventually transformed the landscape on both ends of their empire into majestic metropolises.
Jordan’s Petra is typically associated with this great Empire, yet not many are aware that **Hegra, Saudi’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site**, is also a Nabatean relic, built in a climate and topography harsher than Jordan’s; making what was accomplished in Saudi seem like an engineering miracle from the past.
However, **Alula is only a part of vast Saudi landscape**, now fully open for explorations!
It’s not widely known that parts of Saudi Arabia’s landscape stretch across 2,000 dormant volcanoes dating back thousands of years. Known in Arabic as **Haraat, the lava fields** are nothing uncommon here, reaching even a **mere 8.2km away from the mosque of the Holy Prophet in Medina** – Saudi’s fourth largest city and one of the holiest.'
One of such volcanic fields is **Harrat Khaybar, spanning an area of 14,000 square kilometers**. Volcanic field was formed over the past 5 million years through eruptions along a 100-kilometer vent system.
For all its worth, we will start our expedition in Jeddah, take a sneak peek at old city, move to Medina, for quick look at Holy City before we head off to volcanoes, stretch the legs on white crater and continue to Alula, visit famous Hegra site with few stops at Elephant Rock and Arch. Given that Saudi’s tourism is still in its infancy, there is no better time to go than now, so yalla!
**Let's go!**
**DAY 1 // Jeddah + Moon Valley**
Meeting at airport at 7.30 am for a direct flight to Jeddah. Immigration clearance and head to Al-Ballad, famous for its unique architectural heritage, in particular tower houses constructed in the late 19th century by the city's wealthy merchants. The city's coastal coral building traditions, combined with influences and craftsmanship from trade routes, further add to its charm. During the tour, you will stroll through historic neighborhoods (harrat), explore ancient buildings, markets, and sights.
After lunch, we will head out of the city to Moon valley, owning its name to surreal barren rock formations, some of which appear to have been crafted by humans. Upon closer sighting, there are no signs of chisels or tools being used on these rocks. They have naturally formed over millions of years into such astonishing shapes. Sunset at the viewpoint and drive back to Jeddah for overnight.
**DAY 2 // Harrat- Madinah**
Shortly after breakfast we will leave Jeddah behind and drive through the desert northeastwards, arriving at the Al Wahbah Crater in the Harrat Kishb lava field The crater is one of the world’s most magnificent volcanic features: a vast dry maar formed by a violent phreatic eruption when magma met groundwater, producing a massive explosion. Measuring around 2.2–2.3 km in diameter and about 250 m deep, it stands out both in scale and its otherworldly beauty.
We’ll hike to the rim, taking in the dramatic views of the steep crater walls, the contrasting pale floor often blanketed in white sodium-phosphate crystals, and the stark surrounding lava field.
After our visit we will continue to Madinah for dinner and overnight stay.
**DAY 3 // Madinah + Alula**
We start with Madinah visit with the Holy Mosques, destinations for endless pilgrimages from around the world. Lunch at Old Souk of Medina, sampling some delicious local foods. In the afternoon we will set the compass on Alula, where we will arrive on time for local dinner in the old city and a visit to Elephant Rock.
**DAY 4 // Alula**
Early in the morning we will head out to explore Hegra and the nearby desert curiosities. We will not hesitate to examine the petroglyphs, before we arrive at Pink Camel for high tea. In the afternoon, we will take one last desert drive, this time heading back to Tabuuk airport to catch our flight home. Back in Dubai 22.30.
**Activities:** Trekking, sightseeing, off-roading.
**Grade:** Easy, with short but steep hike up the crater. Available to everyone.
**Rooms & Meals:** Hotels and guesthouse - double sharing. Meals excluded.
**Cost: AED 6710 AED** incl. flights **until DEC 22.**
**Specifically Excluded:** meals, insurance, visa.
**Visa:** UAE RESIDENTS can now obtain **[e-visa](https://visa.visitsaudi.com)**
*It is sole responsibility of participant to secure admission to the country of destination.*
See yah in Saudi x
Trekkup Crew
[Whatsapp 050 4848238](https://wa.me/971504848238) / [info@trekkup.com](http://info@trekkup.com/)
[Find all trekkups at linktr.ee/trekkup](https://linktr.ee/trekkup)
Biodiversity Events Near You
Connect with your local Biodiversity community
Wild Ones: Annual Native Seed Swap
Wild Ones: Annual Native Seed Swap
January 10, 2026 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Join Wild Ones Columbus for their annual native seeds swap. If you have native seeds to share, please label them with the Latin name and common name. The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but remove as much stem as possible.
Bringing seeds is not required. Bring bags or envelopes to store seeds.
Inniswood Metro Gardens
940 S. Hempstead Rd.
Westerville, OH 43081
Phone (614)895-6216
This event will be held in the Greenhouse/Multipurpose Building located near the east end of the parking lot. Click here to see the Inniswood map.
If you have native seeds to share, label each species with this information:
* Botanical Name
* Common Name
Species we will accept:
* Species native to our ecoregion (8.2.4) - Best
* Species native to Ohio and surrounding states - Good
* Straight species only - no cultivars.
The seeds don’t need to be removed from the seed head if you aren’t sure how to do it, but don’t leave much stem on the seed heads.
Please email the list of species to Mary May so we can prepare information for attendees. You can bring the seeds on the day of the swap, or we can arrange to have them picked up beforehand - just let her know in the email.
If you don’t have any seeds to bring, no worries. If you are new to native plants or didn't have time to collect seeds, there are ALWAYS plenty from those that do bring them! We love to see "newbies" at our seed exchange! Also, remember to bring something to put seeds in such as envelopes, paper bags or containers.
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 :)
Franklin Park Conservatory (and optional stop at East Market)
First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).
Why I Believe This: Beginning 2026 with an Honest Conversation
**Start the new year with a Braver Angels gathering focused on speaking openly and listening deeply.**
**In small, structured groups, each person will have five minutes to share a political or social issue that matters to them and why- no debate, no interruption, just genuine curiosity.**
**Participants will practice curiosity, reflecting back values and emotions they hear, asking thoughtful questions, and- only with permission- offering their perspective.**
**It’s a simple and powerful way to connect with one another and begin the year with a respectful and courageous conversation.**
**Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026**
**Time: 3:30 pm - 5:30 pm**
**Place: Columbus Metropolitan Library, Southeast Branch, 3980 Hamilton Rd, Groveport, Ohio**
**All are welcome- bring a friend!**
For additional information contact: Lee Evans at [LEvans@BraverAngels.org](mailto:LEvans@BraverAngels.org)
Investing & Personal Finance Meeting
If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you.
We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here:
https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy
Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here:
https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php
I look forward to seeing you there.
Mark Vonder Haar




















