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Black Expressions

Meet other members of the ?Black Expressions Book Club? (Doubleday Book Club focused on African American literature) to discuss the book-of-the-month, share stories and make new friends. You do not need to be a Black Expressions member to participate. For more information on the Black Expressions Book Club visit http://blackexpressions.com.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out black expressions events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the black expressions events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

Absolutely! Find black expressions events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.

Black Expressions Events Today

Join in-person Black Expressions events happening right now

Soul Recharge - 1:1 Reiki session
Soul Recharge - 1:1 Reiki session
A 1:1 Reiki journey where you receive focused healing, intuitive guidance, and space to reconnect with your inner flow.
Tech/AI Themed Power Walks for Founders & Creators
Tech/AI Themed Power Walks for Founders & Creators
Power walks for people in tech and AI. ​**staaake Power Walk** It’s a break where you kill two birds at once — get your steps in and meet peers, without wasting time. ​**Why it’s better than a regular meetup** Meetups can be hit or miss. Even if it’s not great, you usually stay and think, *I could’ve done more with that time.* With a power walk, even if the vibe isn’t perfect, at least you got your steps in. ​**Bonus: Private WhatsApp Group** Everyone who joins a walk gets access to an exclusive WhatsApp group to keep connecting with like-minded people. ​👉 Free WhatsApp Channel: [https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb9wzfC6BIEg7UVtRq1Y](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb9wzfC6BIEg7UVtRq1Y) 👉 8000+ followers on Linkedin [https://www.linkedin.com/company/staaake/](https://www.linkedin.com/company/staaake/) ​**Note** We leave on time, and the phone will be off so we cannot communicate with people who are late! Please be respectful for other people who have only one hour time! ​ Full Calendar [https://lu.ma/staaake](https://lu.ma/staaake)
Your first alpine camping experience
Your first alpine camping experience
ZH3 Hash # 1694: Zum into the New Year!
ZH3 Hash # 1694: Zum into the New Year!
Hares are **One Night Wonder** and **Squatty Potty**! Out with the old, in with the new - it’s time to **ZUM into the New Year**! Join us as we shake off 2025 and kick off 2026 with a fresh hash trail set straight out of **Zumikon** (yes, *Z-U-M*, not Zoom… no screens required 😉). Expect a festive start, a properly laid trail, a chance to stretch the legs, clear the head, and start the year the right way: outdoors, together, and with good vibes all around. New year, new trail, same questionable decisions. Meet at Zumikon Mobility parking. We are trying to arrange dinner at a local pizzeria - updates to come. **On on!** **Where**: Zumikon Mobility near the tram station. Look for English speakers wearing running gear. **When:** We'll meet at 13:50 to start at 14:00. There's a charge of CHF 5 for participating, which covers all you can drink beer/cider (and non-alcoholic alternatives) plus snacks afterwards. **All Welcome:** If you are new, curious, and want to get out of the house, stretch your legs, talk shit, enjoy a drink, and hopefully a laugh, then here's what you need to know: • We are a social running/walking group, physical fitness is not required, but a sense of humour is useful. • The aim is to find the '*Beer Stop*' at the end of the '*trail*' and have fun. • 'True Trail' is typically 4-7 km. Some will go less (especially those walking or walk/running), and some over-achieving fast runners will go further. • The '*Hare*', which changes each event (along with location), cleverly lays the trail (typically with flour marks) so that everyone reaches the end at the same time. • There is always a place to deposit your bag and sometimes a place to change. • **After Trail**, we group for \~20-40 minutes for drinks, snacks, and some fun. This '*Circle*' is typically outside, so leave something warm in your bag in winter (and bring a flashlight when it's dark). If you don't want to stand around drinking afterwards, you can head home. We occasionally all go to a restaurant afterwards. **Why bother leaving your warm & dry sofa?** If you enjoy getting outside, being around people, and doing something a bit different, you will probably enjoy hashing. Exercise is important, and this is probably the least boring way to get it. 'Hashing' and the idea of some physical activity to work up a thirst, have been around for almost 90 years and there are groups (*Hashes*) in most major cities. Its humor and 'traditions' can be explored on the internet - **or you can just come along and find out.** *See you there.* We are of many nationalities, all ages, full of misfits and idiots (at least there is no one taking themselves seriously!) and always welcome newbies 'Virgin Hashers' and visitors from other groups. For more about Zürich Hash House Harriers, check out [www.zh3.ch](http://www.zh3.ch) ( [http://www.zh3.ch/](http://www.zh3.ch/) )
Amboss Jam
Amboss Jam
Long standing jam session in the area. Bring your instrument and sign up to jam. Lots of expats, lots of great opportunities to connect to other music makers and lovers.
Daily Evening Meditation at 7 -  7:30pm -  open to all
Daily Evening Meditation at 7 - 7:30pm - open to all
### Daily Evening Meditation ##### For all peace lovers and others, for beginners and advanced meditators. We love silence. We meditate with our eyes open—or closed, if you prefer. Come and enjoy the powerful vibrations of peace. We are happy to offer guided meditation upon request. **Welcome—join the wave of peace!** [www.brahmakumaris.ch](www.brahmakumaris.ch)

Black Expressions Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

The Cozy Eye Contact Experiment [Zürich, indoor]
The Cozy Eye Contact Experiment [Zürich, indoor]
**Start 2026 energized!** Open your eyes, heart and soul and lose yourself in the eyes of a stranger for one minute. Explore a sense of belonging within our community while enjoying a moment of connection with a fellow human being. ►𝗪𝗛𝗬 Explore and express who you are: A human being. 𝗧𝗿𝘆 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝗻𝗲𝘄 When someone approaches us on the street, sometimes there is an incentive to sell something in particular. Yet, in this event, you have the unique opportunity to experience how we connect with each other without any intention. Here, you can feel truly being seen and understood. Experience the joy of human connection. 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗸𝗻𝗼𝘄 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗺𝘂𝗰𝗵 𝗯𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿 Eye contact is a simple form of meditation that allows you to observe your thoughts and feelings with much more clarity. This so called awareness is your gateway to a joyful life. Experience a day full of curiosity, peace and presence. 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 For some of us, looking into the eyes of someone can be a difficult, daunting task. Yet it is proven that people looking into the eyes of others are perceived as more confident. This skill can be trained like a muscle. In other words, you are going to feel much more comfortable around other people. Learning this skill can be useful in holding a public speech, a company meeting, at dating or talking with your friends and family. 𝗕𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝘆𝗲 𝗴𝗮𝘇𝗲𝗿𝘀 Meet open-minded, positive people and connect with all kinds of them. Experience acceptance free of any judgement. Find a safe place where we see commonalities over differences. We are all part of the same family. 𝗕𝗲 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗴𝗮𝗶𝗻𝘀𝘁 𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 Nowadays, we are glued to our phones and social media. We, almost by accident, learned to avoid contact with fellow human beings where the generation before us used to have conversations with strangers while riding the tram, bus or train. Many friendships and romantic relationships used to stem from these casual interactions in public life. Let’s solve the problem of the increasing sense of division, isolation and loneliness by coming together and be truly present and communicate with each other, verbally and non-verbally. ►𝗛𝗢𝗪 Choose someone, offer this person to sit in front of you and make yourself comfortable. Bring a blanket or something similar to comfortably sit down. Alternatively, you can do the eye gazing while standing. Look into each others eyes for a minute (or even longer). Enjoy the silence and observe what happens. Expect nothing, yet be open for everything. ►𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 The eye contact experiment is a beautiful and powerful experience that… • offers you to explore human connection through non-verbal communication. • can make your day, and for some people even change their life. • brings people together. ►𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗡 2nd January, from 4 pm until 6 pm. ►𝗪𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗘 Rütschistrasse 29, 8037 Zürich https://maps.app.goo.gl/xwgUEK17FhSM4q4M6 Not sure where we are? Ask in our Whatsapp / Telegram group • Telegram: [https://t.me/+G4lENGEqlkIyZGM0](https://t.me/+G4lENGEqlkIyZGM0) • WhatsApp: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BioB6ALayCLJOnOwKQvmJ8](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BioB6ALayCLJOnOwKQvmJ8) ► **SUPPORT US** Love what we are doing? Support our movement to defeat loneliness and spread a sense of belonging and community through our unique experiences. We put a lot of love, care, attention, time and resources into our project for the benefit of everyone! Even with just 25, 10 or even 5 CHF you can make a difference. [https://buymeacoffee.com/socialfreedomcrew](https://buymeacoffee.com/socialfreedomcrew) ►𝗜𝗠𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗦 If you want to have a better picture about how this Event could be like, just watch the Videos from the following Links: [https://vimeo.com/190622917](https://vimeo.com/190622917) [https://youtu.be/EIlj5xtTYHE](https://youtu.be/EIlj5xtTYHE) [https://youtu.be/nFDeFo2aLmc](https://youtu.be/nFDeFo2aLmc) [https://youtu.be/hIq1v5KFN2c](https://youtu.be/hIq1v5KFN2c) ...or listen to this radio broadcast: [http://bit.ly/what_is_eye_gazing](http://bit.ly/what_is_eye_gazing)
The cozy eye contact experiment
The cozy eye contact experiment
Eye to eye contact experiment Experience a deep connection Looking into the eye of a stranger and see what is happening. Come as you are or bring a pillow. We enjoy to see you all. J. 076 427 77 27
Paint & Play Night
Paint & Play Night
**[Ticket needed](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/paint-play-night-7408884045562569381.html)** **🎨 Canvas & Board Games Night @ Boho** Looking for a cozy evening without small talk? Join us for a relaxed evening of **canvas painting, board games, and good conversations** at **Boho**. No painting skills needed – this is all about **play, creativity, and connection**. What to expect * **Canvas painting corner** We’ll provide canvases and basic acrylics. You can: * Follow a simple prompt (e.g. “paint your perfect Sunday”) * Or just freestyle and see what happens * **Board game tables** From light, easy games to more strategic ones – you can: * Join a group already playing * Or start your own table and we’ll help others join in * **Chilled, boho atmosphere** Think cozy lights, relaxed music, and a mix of people who are open to meeting new faces in a low-pressure way. Who is this for? * You enjoy **creative stuff** but don’t want a serious “art class” * You like **games** but also want space to chat and laugh * You’re new in town or just want to **expand your social circle** Come alone or with a friend – you’ll be mixed into small groups so no one sits alone. Practical info * 🎒 **Optional to bring:** * Your favourite board game (if you have one) * An apron or old shirt if you’re a messy painter **You don’t need to be “good” at painting or games.** Just come as you are, unplug a bit, paint, play, and meet kind people. ​Want more events like this? Join our WhatsApp community: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV) ​​P.S. Pictures might be taken during the event, if you do not want it please let the organizer know. Tickets are **non-refundable.**
1:1 Reiki session
1:1 Reiki session
A 1:1 Reiki journey where you receive focused healing, intuitive guidance, and space to reconnect with your inner flow.
Soul Recharge - 1:1 Reiki session
Soul Recharge - 1:1 Reiki session
A 1:1 Reiki journey where you receive focused healing, intuitive guidance, and space to reconnect with your inner flow.
Creative Sunday (Craft & Live Music!)
Creative Sunday (Craft & Live Music!)
**[Ticket needed](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/art-exhibitions/other-art-events/creative-sunday-craft-live-music-7409603699461375313.html)** **Creative Sunday at Paint it Easy – Unleash Your Imagination & Connect** Spend a relaxing Sunday afternoon reconnecting with your creative side **and meeting new people** at Zürich’s coziest creative space, Paint it Easy. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crafter, this open studio is your space to explore, create, and unwind **while connecting in a fun, social way**. Listen to [https://www.instagram.com/annabelpersoneni/](https://www.instagram.com/annabelpersoneni/) live! Join our WhatsApp group for this event: https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3 🎉 **Connect & Share** ✨ **What’s Included** * Welcome drink to kick off the afternoon * Opportunities to mingle * Ice breaker cards * Notebooks * Live music with an amazing singer! 🎨 **Choose Your Activity** *(paid directly at Paint it Easy)* * Canvas Painting (CHF 10/hour + canvas, e.g., 30x40 cm: CHF 9) * Pottery Painting (CHF 20–45 per piece) * Jewellery Making with Beads (CHF 10/hour + materials, avg. CHF 20–30) – **rotate between stations to meet different people** * Linocut Printmaking (CHF 25–35 per piece) – **rotate between stations to meet different people** * Open Crafting: Bring your own project or explore our supplies 📍 **Location:** Paint it Easy, Zürich 💰 **Ticket:** Early bird CHF 19 Includes a drink, drawing material, notebooks, live music (doesn't include painting) No experience needed—just bring your curiosity, creativity, and willingness to meet new people. Pictures might be taken please let the host know if you don't want to appear on them. Tickets are not refundable. ​Want more events like this? Join our WhatsApp community: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV)
Urban Sketching @ Botanischer Garten
Urban Sketching @ Botanischer Garten
< \* \* \* English version below \* \* \* > **DE** Neues Jahr, neuer Sketch‑Start: Unser erstes Treffen 2026 führt uns in den Botanischen Garten Zürich. Zwischen Palmen, Farnen und Sukkulenten reizen Strukturen, Muster und Licht. Die drei Schauhäuser, man könnte auch meinen, es wären „Ufos im Garten“ gelandet, bieten klare Geometrien und spannende Perspektiven. Wer möchte, zeichnet in den Gewächshäusern. Wer sich traut kann bei gutem Wetter und mit warmer Kleidung auch den Aussenbereich erkunden. **Treffpunkt**: Vor dem Eingang zu den Gewächshäusern. Von dort verteilen wir uns in die drei Schauhäuser oder in den Park. Bitte bringt euer eigenes Zeichenmaterial und idealerweise einen kleinen Klapphocker mit. Keine Vorkenntnisse nötig. Wir skizzieren rund 2 Stunden, allein oder in kleinen Gruppen – ganz entspannt. Danach treffen wir uns wieder, zeigen unsere Sketches und machen ein Gruppenfoto. Als Leitfaden dienen die Werte der Urban Sketchers: https://urbansketchers.org/de/who-we-are/#mission/ **EN** New year, new sketch start: our first meeting in 2026 takes us to Zurich Botanical Garden. Among palm trees, ferns and succulents, structures, patterns and light catch the eye. The three display houses, which could be mistaken for UFOs that have landed in the garden, offer clear geometries and exciting perspectives. Those who wish to can sketch in the greenhouses. Those who dare can also explore the outdoor area in good weather and with warm clothing. **Meeting point**: In front of the greenhouses entrance. From there we’ll spread out into the three glasshouses or the park. Please bring your own drawing materials and, ideally, a small folding stool. No prior experience required. We sketch for about 2 hours, solo or in small groups. Afterwards we regroup, share our sketches and take a group photo. As always, we follow the Urban Sketchers values: https://urbansketchers.org/who-we-are/#mission/ #uskzurich

Black Expressions Events Near You

Connect with your local Black Expressions community

2026 Kick-Off: SONG SUNG BLUE or ANACONDA at Lennox Phoenix Theater!
2026 Kick-Off: SONG SUNG BLUE or ANACONDA at Lennox Phoenix Theater!
Join us as we kick the New Year with a fun Happy Hour and your choice of two fun, new films! Option 1 is the biographical-musical-docu-drama, SONG SUNG BLUE, which stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson in the story about a real-life couple and Neil Diamond Tribute Duo. Option 2 is the comedy-action-adventure ACACONDA, which stars Jack Black and Paul Rudd as part of a group of friends remaking a favorite movie from their youth. Here’s a complete description, trailer and our plan for this event: SONG SUNG BLUE: The film follows Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, who experience success and heartbreak in their musical journey together. Not a tribute to Neil Diamond, but a tribute to a Neil Diamond Tribute Band! The film is based on the 2008 documentary of the same name and is directed by Craig Brewer. It stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, along with Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens and Jim Belushi. Critics call the film, “a crowd-pleaser with a ton of heart!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCM0Ztp3o1o ANACONDA: In this action-thriller-comedy-adventure, a group of friends going through a mid-life crisis head to the jungle to remake a favorite movie from their youth but encounter “unexpected events.” The film is directed by Tom Gormican and stars Jack Black, Paul Rudd, Selton Mello, Daniela Melchior, Thandiwe Newton and Steve Zahn. The film is a reimagining of the 1997 original. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMsFsfrPNaw PLAN: PLAN: Here’s the plan: For those seeing ANACONDA, please purchase your ticket for the 5:15pm showing and meet inside the theater lobby between 5:00 and 5:10pm! Advance ticket purchase advised. Once you have yours, please list your movie of choice and seat number in the Comments section of this event. For the pre-show Happy Hour, we’re going early-early and will meet in the Bar Area at nearby BRAVO at 4:00pm. We’ll head over to the theater by 5pm. If you can, cash makes for a quick exit! For those seeing SONG SUNG BLUE, please purchase your ticket for the 6:30pm showing and meet in the theater lobby between 6:10 and 6:20pm! Advance ticket purchase advised. Once you have yours, please list your movie of choice and seat number in the Comments section of this event. For the pre-show Happy Hour, we’ll meet inside the Bar Area at nearby BRAVO at 5:00pm! We’ll head over to the theater around 6pm. If you can, cash makes for a quick exit! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan
Psychic Development Series  II - Pueo Group
Psychic Development Series II - Pueo Group
Private Group. Closed to the Public Knowing ourselves and understanding our abilities is the first step toward wielding our gifts with control and accuracy. In subsequent classes we will verify and hone our talents with activities and discussion. These are hands-on workshops and participation is expected. The goal of our series will be to develop expertise in areas of particular interest such as mediumship, channeling, divination, healing and, etc.. Our ultimate directions will be determined by class members as we evolve. I look forward to sharing and discovering with you. - Cynthia
How to Be a Better Communicator - Free In-Person Seminar
How to Be a Better Communicator - Free In-Person Seminar
Communication is everything in life You are only as successful as your ability to communicate. \- What if you could confidently talk to anyone? \- What if you had the ability to calmly control every conversation? \- What if you could close that sale\, ask for that date\, make new friends\, repair problematic relationships\, get that raise\, or effortlessly express any idea with confidence? You can! The secret to success relies on your ability or inability to effectively communicate. Attend a free seminar and gain a better ability to communicate. Hosted by the Church of Scientology of Central Ohio 1266 Dublin Road, Columbus, OH 43215 For more information, contact Rhiannon, the Event Host at 614-221-5024
Curating Confidence: Crafting Your Vision for the Year Ahead
Curating Confidence: Crafting Your Vision for the Year Ahead
Step into 2026 with intention, clarity, and a creative practice designed to help you see yourself more clearly. In this special Confidence Lab session, we’ll explore confidence as something you can curate - through the choices you make, the qualities you amplify, and the story you choose to step into. We’ll start with a short guided reflection to surface the traits, habits, and energies you want to nurture in the coming year. Then, using collage materials selected specifically for this workshop, you’ll translate those insights into a visual composition that represents the version of yourself you’re ready to grow toward. This isn’t about resolutions or perfection. It’s about crafting a grounded, imaginative vision of your next chapter - one that feels honest, energizing, and fully yours. All materials are provided. Just bring yourself (and a friend) and a willingness to explore what confidence can look like for you in 2026. **Featured Partner: Columbus Collage Collective** The Columbus Collage Collective was started in August of 2023 by Emily Morgan (aka Lovely But Dead) and Douglas Cuckler (aka Wonder Doug) as a place for collage enthusiasts to gather and create art together. The collective has since become a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the mission to hold free or low-cost collage events across central Ohio. The CCC welcomes all artists of all backgrounds and skill levels and encourages folks to take this time to step away from everyday existence and create art with people who share a love for this dynamic art form. All materials—magazines, scissors, craft knives, glue, paper, cardboard, and more—are provided, so there's no need to bring anything at all (though you're welcome to bring a friend or a favorite tool if you'd like!). We also encourage folks to take home magazines and materials from our events to support continued creativity! Find us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/](https://www.instagram.com/columbuscollagecollective/) Register or sign up for the newsletter at [https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/](https://www.columbuscollagecollective.com/) **What is Confidence Lab?** Confidence Lab is a monthly community experience for bold, thoughtful leaders building confidence from the inside out. Whether you’re launching a business, leading a team, navigating change, or simply striving to show up more fully—you belong here. Our work demands clarity, courage, and conviction—but the pace of daily life can erode our sense of self. Confidence Lab creates space to reflect, reconnect, and grow with others doing purpose-driven work. It’s designed for entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, creatives, corporate professionals, activists, and anyone ready to lead with authenticity and impact. ***Please note:*** *All are welcome! If cost is a concern, please use promo code PUBLIC to access a free ticket—we want you to join us.*
In-Person Event: The Answers to Depression & Anxiety
In-Person Event: The Answers to Depression & Anxiety
This is an in-person meeting. At this meeting you will get answers to depression and anxiety. Find out the source of them and how to get rid of them. Did you know that unwanted emotions like anxiety, depression, unhappiness, loneliness, hopelessness, anger, fear, or feelings of irritation don’t just fall on you for no reason. They are not random occurrences that simply happen to people's minds. They are definitely not due to a chemical imbalance in your brain from some nebulous chemical reaction "by chance". Your negative emotions are the symptoms of the painful experiences that you have which are not healed, and which are still affecting you. The effects of these painful experiences are exacerbated by the pressures or difficulties of the other problems in your life. Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is created by the Hubbard Dianetics Foundation of Central Ohio and Church of Scientology of Central Ohio.
Trails & Ales! Blacklick Woods Metro Park / Prost Beer & Wine Café
Trails & Ales! Blacklick Woods Metro Park / Prost Beer & Wine Café
**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.