Black Men

**Touch and Move: Improvising Contact, creating Community** with ***Jochen Kleres and/or Zahiro Ji*** for **GBTQ men\*** **[BOOK A TICKET!](https://wearevillage.org/en/calendar/)** **Member: 10 €** **Non Member: 15 €** This is a class for GBTQ men\* with all levels of experience, from total newbies to advanced. We meet and begin by checking in with each other, followed by a guided exploration moving from somatic practice to contact dance improvisation. This all culminates in opening the space for the free flow of dancing and explorations in duos, trios and as a group. Bodywork will help us to warm down at the end and integrate what we experienced. Dance is our way to create a space for exploration: what happens when queer men’s bodies meet and get in touch without any expectations and intentions? In Contact Improvisation, touch is the source of finding dance movements. It helps you to be open to the here and now, to surprises, to letting go of performing roles, meeting expectations, and following scripts. Any movement can be part of this dance, no matter how simple – we literally move any way we feel. This creates a conversation without words, simply through our moving bodies. Feeling ourselves by sensing others can create nourishing bonds of community as much as it liberates us. We emphasise consensus, respect, diversity of people and energies, listening, and a non-judgmental space. **General Information** • Wear comfortable clothes. • We’ll speak English and/or German, depending on the needs of the group. • This event is one of two free events included each month in the membership programme. 🔵 Dies ist ein Kurs für GBTQ Männer\* mit allen Erfahrungsstufen, von absoluten Neulingen bis zu Fortgeschrittenen. Wir treffen uns und beginnen mit einem gegenseitigen Kennenlernen, gefolgt von einer angeleiteten Erkundung, die von somatischer Praxis zu Kontakttanzimprovisationen führt. Von hier aus öffnen wir den Raum für den freien Fluss des Tanzes und der Erkundungen in Duos, Trios und als Gruppe. Mit Hilfe von Bodywork wärmen wir uns zum Schluss auf und integrieren das Erlebte. Tanz ist unsere Art, einen Raum für Erkundungen zu schaffen: Was passiert, wenn sich die Körper queerer Männer treffen und ohne Erwartungen und Absichten in Berührung kommen? In der Contact Improvisation ist die Berührung der Ursprung, um Tanzbewegungen zu entdecken. Sie hilft dir, offen zu sein für das Hier und Jetzt, für Überraschungen, für das Loslassen von Rollen, Erwartungen und Vorschriften. Jede Bewegung kann Teil dieses Tanzes sein, egal wie einfach – wir bewegen uns so, wie wir uns tatsächlich fühlen. So entsteht eine Konversation ohne Worte, einfach durch unsere bewegten Körper. Uns selbst zu spüren, indem wir andere spüren, kann ein ebenso wertvolles Gemeinschaftsgefühl, wie ein Gefühl von Befreiung schaffen. Wir legen Wert auf Konsens, Respekt, die Vielfalt der Menschen und Energien, das Zuhören und einen urteilsfreien Raum. **Hinweise** • Trage bequeme Kleidungen • Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe werden wir Deutsch und/oder Englisch sprechen. • Diese Veranstaltung zählt zu den zwei kostenfreien Veranstaltungen pro Monat für Mitglieder.

**Cacao Ceremony** with ***Roby Two Spirit*** **for LGBTQIA+ people with experiences of migration and/or displacement** free event with **[registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/queer-bridges-monday/w03-2026)** Let us gather with Cacao under the last quarter moon, a time to release, restore, and prepare for the new cycle ahead. Rooted in traditions carried by Indigenous and mixed-heritage communities of South America, this ceremony creates a grounded space for our inner child, our ancestors, and our LGBTQ+ community. We open the ceremonial space with intention, share warm cacao, and join in a medicine-song circle that helps us settle into the present moment. A guided meditation supports our inward journey and deepens our connection with the cacao. Cacao is a gentle but steady medicine, known for opening the heart and clearing the mind. Whether you seek clarity, emotional release, or simply a moment of stillness, this ceremony offers a sacred space to reconnect. **General Information** **Queer Bridges: Forging connections and providing resources for LGBTQIA+ people with migration experiences.** **Participants**: This workshop is for all who identify as LGBTQ+ and have **experienced migration and/or displacement**. If you don’t share these experiences but are interested in joining please reach out to us first to see if space is available. We ask that all participants respect the program’s core focus and contribute to fostering an open respectful space. **Registration**: This event has limited spots available. **Language**: English **Cost**: free event with registration 🔵 **Kakaozeremonie** für LGBTQIA+ Menschen mit Migrationserfahrung **[Kostenlos mit Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/queer-bridges-monday/w03-2026)** Lasst uns mit Kakao unter dem abnehmenden Mond zusammenkommen, einer Zeit des Loslassens, der Erneuerung und der Vorbereitung auf den kommenden Zyklus. Verwurzelt in den Traditionen indigener und gemischter Gemeinschaften Südamerikas schafft diese Zeremonie einen geerdeten Raum für unser inneres Kind, unsere Vorfahren und unsere LGBTQ+-Gemeinschaft. Wir eröffnen den zeremoniellen Raum mit klarer Absicht, teilen warmen Kakao und kommen in einem Kreis von Medizinliedern zusammen, die uns im gegenwärtigen Moment verankern. Eine geführte Meditation unterstützt unsere innere Reise und vertieft die Verbindung zum Kakao. Kakao ist eine sanfte, aber kraftvolle Medizin, bekannt dafür, das Herz zu öffnen und den Geist zu klären. Ob du nach Klarheit, emotionaler Entlastung oder einem Moment der Ruhe suchst – diese Zeremonie bietet einen Raum, um dich zu verbinden. **Hinweise** **Queer Bridges: Verbindungen schaffen und Ressourcen für LGBTQIA+ Menschen mit Migrationserfahrung bereitstellen.** **Teilnehmende**: Dieser Workshop richtet sich an alle, die sich als LGBTQIA+ identifizieren und Migrations- und/oder Fluchterfahrung erlebt haben. Wenn ihr diese Erfahrungen nicht teilt, aber dennoch an einer Teilnahme interessiert seid, meldet euch bitte zuerst bei uns, um zu klären, ob ein Platz frei ist. Wir bitten alle Teilnehmenden, den Schwerpunkt des Programms zu respektieren und dazu beizutragen, einen offenen, respektvollen Raum zu schaffen. **Anmeldung**: Für dieses Event stehen begrenzte Plätze zur Verfügung. Eine Registrierung über unsere Website ist daher erforderlich. **Sprache**: Englisch **Kosten**: kostenlos mit Anmeldung

We play half court 4x4 amateur basketball. All levels are welcome but you should be able to play and know the basic rules. Don't be alarmed by the low attendee number, this group is mostly managed through WhatsApp today, we'll add you when you come play.

**Standup with 3 experienced comedians and then brand new jokes workshopped as a panel with your input.** Like a live writers’ room! Like Pimp My Ride but with jokes? Pimp our jokes into bangers or watch them get dumped at the scrapyard. **Strap in for a wildly funny ride with Berlin legends, rising stars and touring pros every Monday at Suess war gestern totally in English** Doors 9:00pm **Show 9:30pm – 10:30pm (60 min show no break)** Reserve your seats via **https://www.annaberos.com/berlin (lower booking fees)** or **https://pimpssummer2025.eventbrite.co.uk** Remaining seats may be available at the door with cash or card produced and usually hosted by **ANNA BEROS (AUS)** Anna’s a Kiwi born, Melbourne raised, Berlin based full-time independent standup comedian, YouTube host, podcaster and producer. She celebrates life’s struggles with incisive standup and playful audience interaction. Her new standup solo, High Hoe enjoyed a successful full run at the Edinburgh Fringe 2025 and her previous solos, Creampie Curious and Creampie Clarity played at numerous comedy festivals through the UK and Australia in 2023 and 2024. She tours Europe and produces and hosts 5 weekly shows in Berlin. In 2025, she opened for Jeff Arcuri at Admiralspalast, in 2024 for April Macie on US army bases in Germany and for Ian Fidance in Berlin in 2019. She hosts the comedy channel, Ersties Nonsense, has the podcast Adults ONLY Comedy Berlin and has written for Comedy Central DE. **[https://www.instagram.com/afberos/](https://www.instagram.com/afberos/)** **LINEUP on IG stories** @adultsonlycomedyberlin **https://www.instagram.com/adultsonlycomedyberlin/** GUEST COMEDIANS: Local and touring comedians with solid years in the game or hard-working promising new blood who host regular shows and/or are performing solo

**Give your back the care it deserves.** This class combines flowing movements, gentle strength-building, and breath awareness to help you move with more ease and confidence. Together, we’ll explore practices that open the shoulders and hips, release tension in the neck and lower back, and strengthen the muscles that support healthy posture. You’ll learn simple techniques that translate into daily life, whether you spend long hours at a desk or just want to feel more comfortable in your body. All levels are welcome, no yoga background needed. Expect to leave class feeling grounded, refreshed, and better connected to your spine. This class is held in English. Bring your own mat or use one of ours.

-DROP IN - *(English below)* **Lindy Hop \| Swing Dance** Klassen (fast jeden Montag) 18:15 Uhr Starter 19:30 Uhr Improver / Refresher Für mehr Informationen & Kosten, bitte hier schauen: **[SWING PATROL PANKE](https://www.swingpatrolberlin.com/sp-panke.html)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Classes (almost) every Monday 18:15 Starter 19:30 Improver / Refresher For more information & cost, please look here: **[SWING PATROL PANKE](https://www.swingpatrolberlin.com/sp-panke.html)**

Du möchtest endlich die\*den Richtige\*n für dich in Berlin finden? Berlins großes Gay Speed Dating bietet dir die Möglichkeit, andere Gay Singles aus deiner Umgebung kennenzulernen! Ein Abend, eine Bar – und bis zu 15 einzigartige Dates. Altersgruppe: 40 - 55 Jahre Anmeldung zum Event: [https://speeddating-xxl.de/gay/gay-dating-berlin](https://speeddating-xxl.de/gay/gay-dating-berlin) **Achtung: Zur Teilnahme ist eine vorherige Anmeldung auf der Website nötig!**

**Playfight Queerfight** with **Playfight Collective \(LoveDragon \| Sue\)** for **GBTQ men\*** **[Book a Ticket](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/playfight-ritual/w03-2026)** **Member: 15 €** **Non Member: 25 €** Das Playfight-Ritual bietet einen sicheren Raum für queere Menschen, um sich in einer Gemeinschaft körperlich zu begegnen. Es findet in Form von Einzelbegegnungen statt, bei denen sich die Kommunikation hauptsächlich auf die Körpersprache und weniger auf den verbalen Ausdruck stützt. Das Ritual kann von einem Tanz mit minimalem Körperkontakt über gemütliches Kuscheln und spielerisches Herumrollen bis hin zu energiegeladenen Kämpfen reichen, bei denen Kraft und Beweglichkeit erprobt werden. Jeder Playfight wird von den beiden beteiligten Personen bestimmt und kann jederzeit beendet werden durch ein Wort oder durch einen Doppelklopfer. Bevor das eigentliche Ritual beginnt, gibt es eine Aufwärmphase und eine Erklärung der Regeln. **Hinweise** Trage bequeme Kleidung, in der du dich frei bewegen kannst. Lange Hosen sind ratsam, um Verletzungen an den Knien zu vermeiden. Auf Schmuck sollte verzichtet werden. **Sprache**: Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe werden wir Deutsch und/oder Englisch sprechen. **Kosten**: Diese Veranstaltung zählt zu den zwei kostenfreien Veranstaltungen pro Monat für Mitglieder. **Member werden**: Als Mitglied unterstützt du nicht nur unser Projekt, sondern du erhältst gleichzeitig monatlich Zugang zu zwei kostenfreien Veranstaltungen. Mehr Infos **[hier](https://wearevillage.org/mitgliedschaft/).** 🔵 The Playfight Ritual is a gathering that provides a safe space for queer individuals to connect physically within a supportive community. It takes the form of one-on-one encounters, where communication relies mainly on body language rather than verbal expression. The ritual can range from a dance with minimal physical contact to cozy cuddling and playful rolling around, or even energetic fights that explore strength and agility. Each playfight ‘belongs’ to the two individuals engaging in it and can be ended at any time by a word or by double-tapping your partner or the floor. There will be a warm-up phase and an explanation of the rules before the actual ritual starts. **General information** Wear comfortable clothes in which you can move freely. Long trousers are advised to avoid mattress burns on your knees. Jewellery is not recommended. **Language**: We’ll speak English and/or German, depending on the needs of the group. **Cost**: This event is one of two free events included each month in the membership programme. **Become a member**: As a member, you not only support our project, but you also get access to two free events every month. More information here. More information **[here](https://wearevillage.org/en/become-a-member/)**.

**Living in Color: Queer and Confident at 50+** with *Jörg Wellenkötter* for **GBTQ men\*** **[Free event with registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/men50plus/w03-2026)** Queer people over 50 face a range of challenges in a society shaped by youth, physical attractiveness, and heteronormativity. Even within the queer community, there can be ageism, where older individuals are seen as less relevant or interesting. A lack of family structures or close friends can also lead to isolation in midlife. In this group, you’ll meet like-minded people who are also navigating the challenges of getting older. Here, we support and empower one another, share our experiences, and learn from each other. Together, we want to embrace the challenges of aging — and enjoy life to the fullest! **General information** **Language**: Depending on the group’s needs, sessions will be held in German and/or English. **Cost**: Free of charge, registration required. *\*\* This event is part of the we are village program ‘****[Belonging versus Lonelliness](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness)****‘, with the support of the* ***[LADS](https://www.berlin.de/sen/lads/en/)****. Learn more about the program [here](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness).* 🔵 #### Leben in Farbe: Queer und selbstbewusst mit 50+ ##### Queere Menschen über 50 sehen sich in einer von Jugendlichkeit, körperlicher Attraktivität und Heteronormativität geprägten Gesellschaft mit verschiedenen Herausforderungen konfrontiert. Selbst in der queeren Community kann es „Altersdiskriminierung“ geben, bei der ältere Menschen als weniger relevant oder interessant angesehen werden. Auch der Mangel an familiären Strukturen oder Freund:innen kann in der Lebensmitte zu Isolation führen. In dieser Gruppe triffst du auf Gleichgesinnte, die sich ebenfalls mit den Herausforderungen des Älterwerdens auseinandersetzen. Hier können wir uns gegenseitig stärken, Erfahrungen teilen und voneinander lernen. Gemeinsam wollen wir die Herausforderungen des Älterwerdens annehmen – und das Leben in vollen Zügen genießen! **Hinweise** **Sprache:** Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe auf Deutsch und/oder Englisch\*\*.\*\* **Kosten:** kostenlos mit Anmeldung.

**Naked Yoga for Men\*** with ***Merdan Akbayir*** **[Book a Ticket](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/naked-yoga/w03-2026)** **Member: 10 €** **Regular: 25 €** In this nude yoga class we will explore our own fragility and vulnerability, free from disguise and in a safe environment. What do I feel like when I'm not wearing clothing? How long does it take for me to get used to being the way nature had made me? Naked yoga dates back to a few thousand years ago. It was a spiritual tradition where nothing, not even a loincloth should be between you and your divine nature - a form of ultimate renunciation of worldly matters. There will be no particular focus on eroticism or sexuality. All parts and aspects of our bodies are equally acknowledged as being part of our lives. **General Information** **Language**: This event will be in English. **Cost**: This event is also available at a reduced member price – but not part of the two-free-monthly-events benefit. **Material**: Please bring a towel to cover the yoga mat, yoga block, or cushion. 🔵 **[Nackt-Yoga für Männer*](https://wearevillage.org/shop/naked-yoga/w03-2026/)** mit ***Merdan Akbayir*** In dieser Nackt-Yogastunde werden wir unsere eigene Zerbrechlichkeit und Verletzlichkeit erforschen, frei von Bekleidung und in einer sicheren Umgebung. Wie fühle ich mich, wenn ich keine Kleidung trage? Wie lange dauert es, bis ich mich daran gewöhnt habe, so zu sein, wie die Natur mich geschaffen hat? Nacktes Yoga geht auf eine Tradition zurück, die einige tausend Jahre alt ist und bei der nichts, nicht einmal ein Lendenschurz, zwischen dir und deiner göttlichen Natur stehen sollte - eine Form der ultimativen Entsagung von weltlichen Dingen. Erotik und Sexualität stehen dabei nicht im Vordergrund. Alle Teile und Aspekte unseres Körpers werden gleichermaßen als Teil unseres Lebens betrachtet. **Hinweise** **Sprache**: Dieses Event wird auf Englisch sein. **Kosten**: Dieses Event ist auch zu einem ermäßigten Mitgliederpreis erhältlich – aber kein Bestandteil der zwei kostenlosen monatlichen Mitgliederveranstaltungen. **Material**: Bitte bring ein Handtuch mit, um die Yogamatte, den Yogablock oder das Kissen abzudecken.

We’ll dancing and doing workout at the same time. It’s a good opportunity to have fun, dance and burn calories

**Yoga for queer men\* // Intermediate Level** **with Merdan Akbayir or Mischa van Dullemen** for **GBTQ men\*** **[Book a Ticket](https://wearevillage.org/en/calendar/)** **Member: 10 €** **Regular: 15 €** 🔵 Join us for a dynamic yoga session designed specifically for queer men with some prior experience. In this supportive and motivating environment, deepen your practice through challenging flows that enhance strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. Embrace diversity and queerness while connecting with others in a space where you can truly be yourself. Celebrate your uniqueness and foster a sense of community in a session that honors who you are. Come and connect in a space where you can truly be yourself. **General Information** * **Level: Intermediate (some prior Experience with yoga is recommended)** * Wear comfortable clothes. * We’ll speak English and/or German, depending on the needs of the group. * For members, this counts as one of the two free events per month. * **Become a member**: As a member, you not only support our project, but you also get free access to two events every month. More information **[here](https://wearevillage.org/en/produkt-kategorie/memberships-en-2/)**. 🔵 **Queer Yoga für Männer / Fortgeschrittenes Niveau\*** Nimm an einer dynamischen Yoga-Session teil, die speziell für queere Männer mit etwas Erfahrung gedacht ist. In dieser unterstützenden und motivierenden Umgebung kannst du deine Praxis vertiefen, indem du an herausfordernden Flows arbeitest, die Kraft, Flexibilität und Achtsamkeit fördern. Erlebe Vielfalt und Queerness, während du dich mit anderen in einem Raum verbindest, in dem du ganz du selbst sein kannst. Komm und finde Community in einem Raum, in dem du wirklich du selbst sein kannst. **Hinweise** * **Niveau: Mittelstufe (etwas Vorerfahrung mit Yoga wird empfohlen)** * Trage bequeme Kleidungen. * Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe werden wir Deutsch und/oder Englisch sprechen. * Diese Veranstaltung zählt zu den zwei kostenfreien Veranstaltungen pro Monat für Mitglieder. * **Member werden**: Als Mitglied unterstützt du nicht nur unser Projekt, sondern du erhältst gleichzeitig monatlich Zugang zu zwei kostenfreien Veranstaltungen. Mehr Infos **[hier](https://wearevillage.org/produkt-kategorie/mitgliedschaften/)**.

Head to Mein Freund Harvey, a retro-themed bar specializing in cocktails, and enjoy a curated standup comedy open mic with Berlin's best comedians. Arrive at 7:00 PM and enjoy top-notch spirits, cocktails, and wine before the show. At 7:30 PM, your host will give you pen and paper to write down your secrets (anonymously) for public airing at the end of the show. At 8:00 PM, sit back and enjoy a 60-minute show with no break. The setting is fun, friendly and the bar is perfect for dates and hanging out with friends. Come Laugh With Us! Produced and Hosted by Tyrone Stallone Tyrone is a California native who travels the world and does comedy. Known for his irreverence and quick wit, Tyrone is a favorite in the Berlin scene where people need a laugh, and need to laugh hard. He has opened for comedy greats like Sam Jay, Ari Shaffir, Tom Rhodes and Phil Nichol. Tyrone hosts several shows around Berlin. He has been featured on Vice, Berliner Zeitung, Berliner Kurier and Radio Eins. with GUEST COMEDIANS annouced on IG stories @tyronestallone https://www.instagram.com/tyronestallone/ MEIN FREUND HARVEY Kulmer Str. 20A, 10783 Berlin, Germany - S/U-Yorckstraße, U-Kleistpark, U-Bülowstraße Cosy, friendly, sophisticated bar with a huge range of whiskies and cocktails. Arrive early to enjoy something special. Non-smoking inside. Seating out front for smoking. Performance space in the back room with a limited capacity of 22, so get your tickets early. CARD PAYMENT ONLY Tickets 10 Euros Purchase Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dirty-laundry-stand-up-and-air-out-in-english-wtyrone-stallone-tickets-1703122578479?

Every other Wednesday in the heart of neuökolln come and start your weekend off with laughter. In the vegan punk bar with some of the funniest comedians in Berlin. tickets below ⬇️ 📍19:77 🎤showtime 8:30 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/black-in-berlin-english-comedy-show-tickets-767523913687?aff=oddtdtcreator

Interested? Contact Preston Moore k.preston.moore@gmail.com 614-300-5989 ———————————— Engaging in men’s work is the new way to forge friendships while being open-minded to personal growth. Many men experience healthier relationships, personally and professionally, by engaging in this work. Open Men’s Group is a container for men to share vulnerably without receiving judgment or feedback. We believe that emotionally mature, powerful, compassionate, and purpose-driven men will help heal some of society’s deepest wounds. We support the powerful brilliance of men and we are willing to look at, and take full responsibility for, the pain we are also capable of creating – and suffering. We care deeply about men, our families, communities, and the planet. Visit ManKind Project USA to discover more. https://mkpusa.org/

Are you passionate about supporting other men on their mental health journey? We’re building a movement of virtual and in-person men’s groups across Ohio — and we’re looking for group leaders who want to make a real difference with us. As a group leader, you’ll create a safe space where men can connect, reflect, and grow together. Training and support are provided — you just need heart, presence, and a willingness to lead. **Apply now to lead a group in your area:** 👉 https://form.jotform.com/taketimespeakyourmind/sym-group-leader-application Speak Your Mind is a mental health non profit dedicated to bringing our community together to end the isolation that leads to mental struggle and suicide. Learn more about them here: https://linktr.ee/taketimespeakyourmind

❄️ **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 Pin Ups 👉 **Click here to join** https://tinyurl.com/2b3vj49a 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!

**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.