Black Couples

So....we did this event last year and it was very successful, we had a mixture of those that did not go and celebrate NYE and those with sore heads Come along and join us for the afternoon for a get together and catch up after all the celebrations I have no idea how busy The Sir John Oldcastle will be, but I am sure we will fit it

Join us for an epic game night filled with social fun and exciting tabletop games at Crystal Palace Board Gamers meet-up! Whether you're a fan of strategy, dice, card, or board games, there will be plenty of options for everyone to enjoy. This is a fantastic opportunity to make new friends, connect with fellow gamers, and immerse yourself in a night full of fun times and laughter. So grab your favorite game and come join us for an unforgettable gaming experience. Let the games begin! Feel free to join us by hitting that attend button below. **What to expect:** * We meet at the Anerley Arms (next to Anerley train station) from 7pm (there is food available at the bar) * If you do not have a game setup, you can arrive at any time. If you do have a game to set up we recommend getting there earlier. * It is a relaxed atmosphere, where we generally prioritize company over fierce competition. * Please bring along any games you think we might enjoy, or you can play from the games that others bring. * We split into a few groups based on people's game preferences and numbers, and usually have plenty of time to try a few games over the course of the evening. * The event hosts are regular attendees but might not make it to every event - if you can't spot us, then just approach the folks sitting at tables surrounded by board games (usually on left as you come in the door). We're a friendly bunch and will be more than happy to welcome you. (Please update your RSVP if it turns out you'll be unable to attend, to free up your space for others who may otherwise miss out!)

Calling all singles! 🌟 Let's ring in 2026 together at the vibrant London Parade on January 1st 🎊🥁 Watch amazing floats, international performers, music, and dances in central London while connecting with new people in a fun, relaxed atmosphere 😘👋 Perfect icebreaker for making friends... or maybe more! 💕 We'll gather as a group, cheer on the 40th anniversary spectacle, and perhaps grab hot drinks afterward ☕❤️ Free event – dress warm and come ready to mingle! Check out https://londonparade.com/ for parade info We will finally end up at Albert's Schloss in Picadilly Circus at around 6pm. **MEETING POINT: OUTSIDE** Flemings Mayfair Hotel, 7-12 Half Moon St, London W1J 7BH. Nearest Station is Green Park. Will wait for 15mins 📍🎈 Who's ready for some New Year magic? ✨🚶‍♂️🚶‍♀️ **Practical Tips for London Parade Day 2026 🎉🥁❄️** Here are some essential tips to make your parade experience smooth, fun, and comfortable on January 1st! The parade starts at \*\*1:00 PM\*\* (a bit later this year – perfect for recovering from NYE! 😴🎆) and runs until around 3:30-4:30 PM along the iconic route from Piccadilly (near The Ritz/Green Park) through Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall, to Westminster 📍🇬🇧 **Arrival & Viewing Spots\*\* ⏰👀** \- \*\*Arrive on time at meeting point\!\*\* \- Best free viewing: Piccadilly/Regent Street \(lighter crowds\, energetic start\)\, Trafalgar Square \(lively atmosphere\)\, or Whitehall/Westminster \(dramatic finish near Big Ben\) 🌟 \- Stay on one side of the route – pedestrian crossings close once it starts\! 🚧 \- For guaranteed seats\, grab grandstand tickets via https://londonparade\.com/ 🎟️ **Getting There & Transport\*\* 🚇🚌** \- \*\*Use the Tube\*\* – best option\! Nearest stations: Green Park\, Piccadilly Circus\, Charing Cross\, or Westminster\. Check TfL for holiday schedules \(reduced service likely\) 📱 \- Avoid driving/buses – major road closures all day\, many routes diverted 🚫🚗 \- Plan your exit side in advance to avoid post\-parade crush\! **Weather & What to Bring ☔🧥** \- January in London = chilly & possibly wet \(2–8°C\) – dress in layers\, waterproof jacket\, hat\, gloves\, comfy shoes\! 🧣👢 \- Pack snacks\, water\, hot drinks in a thermos ☕🥪 \(vendors available but queues long\) \- Portable charger\, umbrella\, folding stool if you want extra comfort 🔋🪑 \- Small bag only – easier in crowds\! **Other Handy Tips 😄** \- Toilets: Public ones around but expect queues – go before arriving\! 🚽 \- Family\-friendly: Earlier sections less crowded for kids 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 \- Accessibility: Designated viewing areas in Westminster – check official site \- Stay updated: Follow https://londonparade\.com/ for any last\-minute changes 📲 Come prepared and let's kick off 2026 with epic vibes! ✨🥳 See you there! 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️ \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

**FREE Christian Speed Dating Tonight (Online)
Date: Today
Time: 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Location: Online at MeetChristians.live
Cost: Free** 
Join us tonight for a free Christian speed dating event designed for believers who want to date intentionally, authentically, and in alignment with their faith. 
This online event is hosted by Meet Christians Live, a Christian speed dating community focused on real conversations, genuine connections, and God-centered relationships. You will meet other Christian singles face to face in a respectful, values-driven environment without swiping or endless texting. 
What to expect
• Structured, time-efficient speed dating conversations 
• Christian singles who take faith seriously 
• A welcoming, relaxed, and respectful atmosphere 
• Real interaction with real people
Who should attend 
• Christian singles seeking meaningful relationships 
• Believers open to dating with purpose and clarity 
• Adults who value faith, honesty, and intentional communication 
This is not a hookup event and not a casual dating scene. Our goal is to help Christians meet other Christians in a way that honors biblical values while still being social and enjoyable. 
If you are tired of traditional dating apps and want to meet people who share your faith, this event is for you.
Register and join us tonight at MeetChristians.live

# Join Us for an Epic Night 🎉🍻 Get ready for an unforgettable evening at **Albert’s Schloss**, the coolest Austrian Alpine bar in the heart of Soho, London! 🏔️✨ Step off Shaftesbury Avenue and dive into a vibrant fastnacht filled with Alpine charm and Soho swagger. We’re gathering **downstairs at the main bar** for a night of pure fun! 🕺💃 **What to Expect**: * 🎶 **Live Music & Entertainment**: The main stage comes alive with joyous sounds that’ll have you dancing on benches! * 🍴 **Delicious Alpine Feasting**: Savor mouthwatering dishes from the Cook Haus, bursting with hearty flavors. * 🍺 **Central Bier & Cocktail Bar**: Sip on frosty biers or expertly crafted cocktails in a warm, buzzing atmosphere. * 🪑 **Cozy Vibes**: Grab a spot in a booth, perch on a bar stool, or join the party on communal benches—everyone ist willkommen! 📍 **Where**: Albert’s Schloss, 20-24 Shaftesbury Ave, Soho, London 📌 **Meet Us**: We are right of the stage downstairs. Some steps for elevated area Come for the drinks, stay for the music, and leave with memories! Let’s make it a night to remember at this Alpine gem. 🥨🎤 See you there! 😎 \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* \*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Some Tips:** 1. **Let’s all commit to updating our RSVPs if plans change**—it helps us plan better and ensures great attendance for everyone. If you RSVP “yes” but don’t attend and don’t update your RSVP, you may be removed from the group to keep things fair. No stress, though—you can rejoin for a small £10 fee! Just send me a DM, and I’ll share the PayPal details to get you back in. 2. **Turn Up on Time at the start!** This helps the quality of the event and helps you. 3. If you are struggling with the **app**, use the web page instead, that's what I use. 4. **Attendee Numbers & Guest Lists:** We have this event listed at least on two groups and the guest list includes attendees from all. You can see the list of attendees here: [https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/](https://www.meetup.com/zensingles/) [https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/](https://www.meetup.com/cityzenlondon/) [https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife](https://www.meetup.com/LoveLife) 5. Join our **social media**: **Instagram**: [https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/](https://www.instagram.com/cityzen.london/) **X:** https://x.com/CityZenLondon 6. **Our WhatsApp group:** [See private comment in the comments section below]. We have a few rules including no ads, no DMs unless recipient is in the "Direct Messaging List" or risk removal and £10 rejoin fee. 7. **Support Our Amazing London Event Hosts! 🙌** Our incredible crew of hosts is the heartbeat of London’s buzzing meetup scene, bringing people together for unforgettable experiences that spark connection, growth, and fun! 🌟 From museum adventures to flirty dating mixers, these rockstar hosts pour their energy, time, and passion into creating events that level up your social and communication skills. But hosting isn’t easy—it takes resources, effort, and heart. 💖 Please consider supporting our hosts with a donation to keep the good vibes flowing and help us make London the ultimate social hub! 🚀 Below, meet our hosts for this event and see how you can chip in to fuel their amazing work. 8. To encourage signing up early to events and regulate the number of attendees a late joiner/overflow fee may be applied to an event for any **additional** people wanting to join the event. This may happen on the day or even an hour before the event. So there may be people who obtained a free RSVP to network with our group and some who had to pay. If you have successfully signed up to our event on meetup paid or not then you are in. Happy networking **Zen & The Meetup Groups** *The Visionary Social Connector* Zen, our AI guru with 25 years in the game, founded these meetups to transform his own social skills and now helps others do the same. From sparking in-person networking to coordinating epic events, Zen’s passion for connection is unstoppable. Help him keep the momentum going! Support Zen: Donate to cover event planning tools, venue bookings, and more. **[Donation Link](https://paypal.me/Zenswalks)** \*\*\*\* **Disclaimer, Liability Waiver & Media Consent** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree to the following: **Organiser Identity** – The organiser operates under the community name **“ZEN”**, which is used as an alias for privacy and branding purposes. By joining, you understand that “ZEN” refers to the organiser and/or designated hosts of this event. **Assumption of Risk** – You understand and accept that participation in any social, recreational, or group activity involves inherent risks, including but not limited to personal injury, illness, property damage, or other unforeseen incidents. You voluntarily choose to attend at your own sole risk. **Personal Responsibility** – You are solely responsible for your own safety, health, wellbeing, and personal belongings at all times. It is your responsibility to exercise good judgment, act responsibly, and take appropriate precautions before, during, and after the event. **No Organiser Liability** – The organiser, hosts, volunteers, and the community known as **ZEN** accept no responsibility and shall not be held liable for any injury, loss, damage, accident, theft, or any other issue that may arise as a result of your participation. **Guests** – If you bring guests, you accept full responsibility for their conduct, safety, and understanding of this disclaimer. **Independent Event** – This event may be held in conjunction with other social or non-singles meetup groups. ZEN is not responsible for the actions, behaviour, or arrangements of any third parties. **Media Consent** – By attending this event, you consent to being photographed, filmed, or recorded. You grant ZEN and its organisers the irrevocable right to use such images and recordings for promotional, marketing, social media, and community purposes without compensation or further approval. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, it is your responsibility to inform the organiser in advance and to remove yourself from areas where filming or photography is taking place. **Acceptance of Terms** – By attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and accepted this disclaimer. You release ZEN, its organisers, hosts, volunteers, and members from all claims, demands, or causes of action, whether known or unknown, arising out of your participation or the use of photography/videography captured at the event. Your attendance at this event signifies your full acceptance of this policy. If you do not agree, you should not attend.

Hostess: Ana \*This event is a collaboration with other meetup groups and social networks and it will be well attended \*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from [https://www.fatsoma.com/e/smaoarj7/happy-new-year-big-singles-social-at-home-grown-members-club-all-ages-welcome](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/smaoarj7/happy-new-year-big-singles-social-at-home-grown-members-club-all-ages-welcome) **What is better way to welcome 2026 than with a relaxed singles social at Home Grown Members Club? Imagine a place full of single people mixing and mingling, enjoying conversations and keeping their eyes trying to spot that special one that will make their heart jump.** Join us to at the first event of the year, socialise like a royal, in an elegant and relaxed singles mix and mingle while enjoying luscious cocktails at the most exclusive venue! The event will not have any loud music, making the environment perfect for meaningful long conversations that will allow you to connect with the other attendees and get to know them! Whether you are looking for a partner or just to meet and connect with other people who are at the same phase of life, this the event for you! You never know who you meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life! Since this is a mix and mingle and not a speed dating there is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy. Connect with like minded people and open your social circle, enjoy chatting about anything and everything, with those you like, for as long as you like while sipping on the best cocktails in town made by award- winning mixologists. If you find somebody who you think you have a connection with, dare to ask their contact details right then and there... like the old times ;) Oh! and you don't need to ask the awkward question: 'so are you single?' because they all will be! You are welcome to arrive solo- most people do- or with friends, we will be there to welcome you, make you feel comfortable and act as the perfect glue among those who wish to. Attendees from past events always feel welcome and energised after our events. Our reputation says that we make the best events in London - so come and check by yourself! Home Grown is the private members’ club, not open usually to the public, set in a stunning six story Georgian building in the heart of Marylebone and part of the Home House Collection which exudes quality, sophistication and style. Hosting our event at Home Grown members club, with its home away-from-home atmosphere, is everything you could possibly want on a Saturday evening This is a unique opportunity to visit the venue which should not be missed! How to find us: When you arrive please come on the first floor . Any issue on the night feel free to contact Ana: 07801038091 or Marianna: 07949526733 Please Note: -Tickets need to be bought online and are not available at the door -Tickets are valid for entry till midnight -Dress code: Smart/ Elegant/Glamorous ( ripped jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, sportwear, sportshoes or trainers are not allowed) -A valid proof of ID (European Passport, Driving License, or Passport) is required upon arrival independently of the age for security reasons For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 How to connect with us: Like and follow our facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland) Join our facebook group: [ https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514) Follow us on twitter:@Mariannasevents

Welcome to this incredible meetup at one of London's most historic and charming pubs near Oxford Circus! We are excited to invite you to join us at The Cock Tavern, on Saturday at 3 PM. This Free event, tailored for the over 50s, offers a perfect opportunity to connect and celebrate in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. #### Details at a Glance: * **Date:** On Saturday. * **Time:** 3 PM onwards * **Venue:** The Cock Tavern, 27 Great Portland Street, London W1W 8QE * **Nearest Station:** Oxford Circus #### **Convenient Location:** Located in the very heart of London, The Cock Tavern is just a short walk from Oxford Circus station. Its prime location makes it easily accessible, whether you're coming from home, a day out in the city, or a relaxing afternoon. **Engaging for the Over 50s:** This meetup is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for *members of our group*, particularly those over 50. Whether you're looking to make new friends, share stories, or simply enjoy the company of others in your age group, this event promises a comfortable and engaging environment. Although it may start quietly, it can become very busy as the afternoon progresses **Exciting Opportunity for Fun and Connection:** Join us for a delightful afternoon of meeting new people and engaging in fun conversations. Whether you’re a long-time member or new to our events, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for making connections and enjoying great company. We can't wait to see you there! **[Prime Time Group](https://www.primetimebase.com) \| [FAQ](https://www.primetimebase.com/bulletin/category/faq/)**

Ease into 2026 with an **evening** that feels less like a formal event — and more like the best house party you wish you’d been invited to. We’re taking over **House Party**, a six-storey private members’ club in the heart of Soho, designed to feel like a nostalgic 80s house party where all the best evenings happened. Think playful rooms, unexpected corners, and social spaces made for conversation, laughter, and connection. **Buy your ticket here:** [ https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/new-year-90s-house-party-tickets-1978623869256?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/new-year-90s-house-party-tickets-1978623869256?aff=oddtdtcreator) **What to expect:** ✨ **Exclusive use of the venue from 7:00–8:00 PM** for our Cocktails & Conversation guests — the perfect window to meet other singles, explore the space, and settle into the evening. After 8pm the space opens to the public, but we will have a room reserved for our guests. 🎮 Six floors to explore, featuring foosball, arcade machines, and interactive games throughout — this is mingling, but with personality. 🍕 Pizza and chicken available to order on the evening — relaxed, nostalgic, and exactly what you want at a house-party-style gathering. 🍹 A specially curated **mocktail menu** for anyone embracing Dry January — because great evenings aren’t defined by alcohol. 🎶 A fun, lively atmosphere that encourages easy conversations, playful interactions, and moving naturally between rooms as the evening unfolds. This is a **social, feel-good way to start the year** — no pressure, no late-night chaos, just great people, playful energy, and an easy return to London life after the holidays. Whether you’re coming to meet someone new, reconnect with your social side, or simply enjoy a brilliantly curated **evening** among like-minded singles, this is the perfect January re-entry. **Dress code:** Social, playful, and relaxed — come as your most confident self. **Arrival:** From 7:00 PM **Exclusive access:** 7:00–8:00 PM - Arrive by 9pm for guarenteed entre **Please bring photo ID** **All ages are welcome** — this one’s for the young at heart **Buy your ticket here:** [ https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/new-year-90s-house-party-tickets-1978623869256?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/new-year-90s-house-party-tickets-1978623869256?aff=oddtdtcreator)

❄️ **Spare Yourself a Boring Winter - Bowl With Us!** Avoid social hibernation this winter, join our **6-week social bowling league** starting in January! Whether you're looking to unwind after work, meet new people, or just have a fun night out with pals, this league is perfect for everyone! Chill times, cold drinks, and plenty of chances to connect with others. No matter your skill level, this league is all about having fun and meeting new friends. **;)** **🗓 Thursday evenings \|📍 AMF Sawmill Lanes \| 💵 $74 w/ code MUCOW26** **💻 League Info & Registration**: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling **Why Join?** 🎉 It’s only 6 weeks - perfect for a low-commitment social plan 🍻 Great mix of people in their 20s-40s, plus post-game hangs at the bar 🎳 Zero pressure - gutter balls totally welcome! 👕 Free league shirt if you sign up early 🧠 Weekly trivia w/ prizes 💬 Super social - join solo or w/ friends! **Want in?** Join our Meetup team Pinbusters 👉 **Click here to join** https://tinyurl.com/26w6mo8l Or start a team of your own with a few friends - we’ll all be hanging out either way! 📅 League Dates (Thursday evenings): Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19, Feb 26 ***(The MeetUp event date is deadline to register for the league.)*** **Cost & What’s Included:** ✔ $74 with discount code MUCOW26 ✔ 6 weeks of bowling (1–3 games/week) ✔ Shoe rentals & full league setup ✔ Trivia, prizes, and great people 👉 **SIGN UP NOW** 💻League Info & Registration: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling 🤑Use promo code MUCOW26 to save $20 📸 Follow the fun on Instagram: https://bit.ly/BowlingLeague-IG 📩 Questions? Contact the league: http://bit.ly/2nKHno7 Spots are filling fast – don’t miss out on the fun times!

***FREE TOUR TICKET FOR ALL OF YOU WONDERFUL MEETUP MEMBERS*** Use Promo Code **MEETUP2025** to get your free ticket and route smart guide at [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sol-in-columbus-oh-a-smart-guided-short-one-way-loop-bikeway-tour-tickets-769120860197) You can do the tour solo/with your favorite peeps, or try to generate a group ride of Meetup CycleNuts by RSVPing here and posting the day and time you are interested in others joining you. Either way, have fun on your memory-making adventure, and thank you for being a CycleNut! ### SOL in Columbus, OH \- A Smart\-guided Short One\-way Loop Bikeway Tour Short One-way Loop (SOL) in Columbus on bikeways. The smart-guided tour is mostly through scenic riverside parks with a quick downtown peek. All of that in 10 miles! 83% of the route is bikeway, and the rest is Google Maps designated "bicycle-friendly roads". This short ride passes through several beautiful riverside parks. Passing through downtown the route runs alongside Huntington Park baseball stadium, Nationwide Arena hockey stadium, near North Market (worth a stop if you enjoy markets with lots of tasty treats), within a few blocks of the state capitol, convention center, art museum, center of science and industry, several first-class hotels, and much more (see Points of Interest list below). Easily, anywhere along the way, the tour can be detoured to nearby points of interest. This smart-guided route comes with CycleNuts' 50% downhill guarantee. Sweating is optional. If your bike has gears, you might use them to climb in a few spots. All bikes are appropriate for this smart-guided tour (even a single-speed if you do not mind walking your bike up the spots mentioned). The route is shaded about 50% of the way. Sweating is optional - you set your pace, starting time, and touring agenda. Points of interest: COSI Scioto River North Market German Village The Scioto Mile Brewery District Huntington Park Nationwide Arena Columbus Union Station Arch Greater Columbus Convention Center **The Meetup plan = Show up, Rally with whoever else shows up, and Roll following the smart-guided instructions.** This is a smart guided tour route that can be ridden any day or time, solo or with others. It is only posted with a repeating set time and date with a tour leader to fit the Meetup format, and, more importantly, to encourage you to get out and ride when it is convenient for you. **If you are going to ride it and would like the company of others, then simply RSVP and post in the comments when it is that you are going to ride - date and time.** Take pictures/videos and share. Have fun! ***This is a repeating event on the calendar***\*, but the date and time do not necessarily need to be what is posted. **If you are interested in riding with a group, then simply RSVP and leave a message in the comment section** giving the date and time you would like others to join you. If you are interested in riding by yourself or with your private group of friends, then simply do it.\* ***The mission of this format is to create a catalog*** *of free group tour routes available for CycleNuts to ride as a group, or solo, in an area spanning several states. **The goal is to get people out cycling** either in groups or solo. **The vision is a cycling community with resources** available for bike tours, bike talk, and a format for lives experienced at the speed of bike.*

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!