Buy Local
Meet other local people who support locally owned businesses by buying locally produced products as an economic development strategy. Whether local is your city or country, discuss strategies that help strengthen your communities.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out buy local events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the buy local events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find buy local events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Buy Local Events Today
Join in-person Buy Local events happening right now
(Del Ray) Sunday 1st Shift: Customer Service Help (12pm-2pm)
Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you.
**What you'll do:**
* greet customers
* manage customer traffic
* help customers find basic bike parts in our store
* direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair
* help customers find a bike that fits them
* set customers up to test ride bikes
* work the register to conduct customer payments
**Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:**
* customer service oriented
* willing to work outside most of the shift
* able to work on their feet most of the shift
* comfortable working in a faced-paced environment
* open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer
* excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning!
**What to Bring/Attire**
* A water bottle & snack
* Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather
* Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny
**Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.
Local Social Host Sign-Up: Lunches, Drinks & Curated Experiences
**Want to help bring your city’s community together?**
We’re looking for local hosts to organize small group lunches, evening drinks, mixers, movie get-togethers and curated experiences.
**No experience necessary,** just a friendly attitude, some local knowledge, and a willingness to meet a few new people. After each event, we’ll send a short feedback form so we can improve and support you. The host will also be able to provide feedback so we can learn what worked and what didn't.
**[Click here](https://form.questionscout.com/6926c9ab87a828a5c11a79fc)** to apply and get started: if you’re selected, we’ll reach out for a quick screening call.
(Del Ray) Sunday 2nd Shift: Customer Service Help (2pm-4pm)
Sign up to help with customer service at our Del Ray shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you.
**What you'll do:**
* greet customers
* manage customer traffic
* help customers find basic bike parts in our store
* direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair
* help customers find a bike that fits them
* set customers up to test ride bikes
* work the register to conduct customer payments
**Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:**
* customer service oriented
* willing to work outside most of the shift
* able to work on their feet most of the shift
* comfortable working in a faced-paced environment
* open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer
* excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning!
**What to Bring/Attire**
* A water bottle & snack
* Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather
* Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny
**Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.
(location changed)Free Sunday Yoga in Arlington-Central_library
Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which.
Cost: Free
Level: Beginners
What we will be doing:
1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone!
2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace.
Please:
1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks.
2. Please be on time, class will start on time.
3. Wear comfy clothes.
4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF.
5. UnRSVP if you can't make it.
Disclaimer:
Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class
Modern West African Cuisine at Elmina (U Street Corridor)
**NEW MEMBERS or 1st TIME EVENT GO-ERS**
Before attending your first event, please take a moment to understand how our dinners work and what we ask of members.
→ **[Learn how DC Metro Dining works](https://tinyurl.com/Landing-Page-DC-Metro-Dining)**
→ **[Ensure Group Notifications are Setup (Announcements + In on Waitlist/Attending List)](https://app.tango.us/app/workflow/Enable-Meetup-Email-Notifications-3a85109614fc4907940503d096331392)**
**RSVP CUTOFF (i.e. Final Change Your Mind if Registered YES)**
→ **RSVP Cancellation Cutoff for this Event is Sunday 10a, 5/24**. (*Late Cancel applies after this, repeat occurrences can impact membership*)
Let’s explore an upscale dining experience that blends West African tradition with modern culinary innovation. We are heading to **Elmina** in Shaw, from Top Chef finalist and Food Network personality Eric Adjepong, known for bringing modern Ghanaian cuisine into a refined dining setting.
**FOOD**: Elmina blends traditional West African flavors with modern technique, with a menu that highlights depth, spice, and layered composition. Dishes frequently called out include the jollof duck pot and egusi stew dumplings, both reworking classic Ghanaian staples into more refined presentations. You will also find grilled meats with suya-style seasoning, seafood dishes with balanced heat and acidity, and rotating plates that reflect regional influences.
The menu leans bold and savory, with options across meat, seafood, and some vegetarian-friendly selections. Cocktails often incorporate tropical and spice-forward elements that align closely with the cuisine.
Most members should expect total spend to land roughly in the 55 to 85 dollar range, depending on beverage participation.
→ **Explore Elmina's menu:**
**[https://www.elminarestaurant.com/menu](https://www.elminarestaurant.com/menu)**
**SPACE**: Stylish, modern dining room with a warm, intimate layout. Expect a lively but controlled atmosphere with moderate noise levels, especially on a Sunday evening.
→ **Visit the restaurant site (scroll half way down to la carte menu)**: **[https://www.elminarestaurant.com/](https://www.elminarestaurant.com/)**
* Tax/Tip combo is our required 30% tax/tip policy (see the FAQs for more details).
* Limited to 8 slots.
See you there!
JoeN
**CLOSEST METRO**:
\***U Street–African-Amer Civil War Memorial–Cardozo station** (Green, Yellow) is the closest stop. Walk east along Florida Ave NW. The walk is about 12–15 minutes
\*For directions using the Metro, try using the Plan a Trip feature at the WMATA website ([click on your preferred Metro station](https://www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/index.cfm) then at the Station page level click "Plan a Trip".
**PARKING**: Street parking in this area can be difficult on weekend evenings. Several paid garages are located within a few blocks along 14th Street and nearby side streets. Plan accordingly.
***Attendance Notes:***
-\* **If you RSVP “YES,” please commit to showing up**. *With 5,400+ members and limited seating, we can’t afford no-shows. It’s not fair to other members or to our relationship with the restaurant.*\*
-\*\* New Members / 1st Timers: **Trying to get a slot? Join the Waitlist and check back frequently: spots (*often open up before Noon on the day of the event. You may also receive midweek confirmation emails to reconfirm your RSVP, so please check your Meetup DMs inbox).***
-\* Billing Reminder - Add 30% for tax and tip to your food and drink total.\*\*\* This is part of our group’s expectations and helps smooth out service with the restaurant.
Looking forward to dining with you!
JoeN
(Arlington) Sunday 1st Shift: Customer Service Help (12pm-2pm)
Sign up to help with customer service at our Arlington shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you.
**What you'll do:**
* greet customers
* manage customer traffic
* help customers find basic bike parts in our store
* direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair
* help customers find a bike that fits them
* set customers up to test ride bikes
* work the register to conduct customer payments
**Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:**
* customer service oriented
* willing to work outside most of the shift
* able to work on their feet most of the shift
* comfortable working in a faced-paced environment
* open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer
* excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning!
**What to Bring/Attire**
* A water bottle & snack
* Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather
* Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny
**Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.
(Arlington) Sunday 2nd Shift: Customer Service Help (2pm-4pm)
Sign up to help with customer service at our Arlington shop! **If this is your first time doing customer service at our shop**, **please direct message Elizabeth here via MeetUp** so she can ensure someone can be there to orient you.
**What you'll do:**
* greet customers
* manage customer traffic
* help customers find basic bike parts in our store
* direct customers to the mechanics if they need a bike repair
* help customers find a bike that fits them
* set customers up to test ride bikes
* work the register to conduct customer payments
**Qualities of a good volunteer for this role:**
* customer service oriented
* willing to work outside most of the shift
* able to work on their feet most of the shift
* comfortable working in a faced-paced environment
* open to a steep learning curve with a rewarding experience the more times you volunteer
* excited to learn about Velocity Bicycle Cooperative and become part of our volunteer team that keeps our wheels turning!
**What to Bring/Attire**
* A water bottle & snack
* Wear comfortable shoes and clothes appropriate for the day's weather
* Sunscreen and a baseball hat if it is sunny
**Age Requirements:** If you are under 18, you must bring a parent/guardian with you to the orientation to sign the waiver.
Buy Local Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Dim Sum & Brookside Gardens Walk
Looking for something to do on Memorial Day Weekend? Join us for dim sum followed by a spring garden walk!
We’ll start with a delicious dim sum lunch at Far East Restaurant. Whether you’re a dim sum regular or trying it for the first time, there will be plenty of tasty dishes to share. **Please try to arrive on time.**
After lunch, we’ll head to Brookside Gardens, just about 15 minutes away, for a walk through the beautiful public gardens. Late May is a wonderful time to visit, with colorful seasonal flowers and blooming roses. It’s a great opportunity to unwind, take photos, enjoy nature, and continue conversations after lunch.
Ocho de Bastos at Rockville Hometown Holiday
Let’s go dance to the wonderful music of Ocho de Bastos. They are part of a two day celebration in Rockville Town Square with other bands and vendors. Bring a chair if you want to pause your dancing.
Rockville Bike Party goes to Hometown Holidays
Join us for a fun and festive group bike ride to **[Hometown Holidays](https://www.rockvillemd.gov/services/hometown-holidays/)**[, ](https://www.rockvillemd.gov/services/hometown-holidays/)Rockville’s premier Memorial Day weekend celebration! We’ll pedal our way through scenic routes and quiet neighborhoods, ending at Rockville Town Square just in time to enjoy live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities.
We’ll take a safe, mostly flat, [4-mile route](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/54739275) using bike-friendly streets, and off street trails. During the route, we will pass by 2 of Rockville's Bike Counters, which record data for the city's Public Works department.
Helmets required. All ages are welcomed. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Please bring water, a lock, and money if you plan to buy food or drinks at the festival.
Parking on Sundays is free at the Twinbrook Station if you bring your bike in your car. This will be a one-way ride so everyone can enjoy the festivities at Hometown Holidays. The Rockville Metro is available for those who want to return to Twinbrook.
Let’s kick off the summer season with good company, great weather, and a celebration in the heart of Rockville!
READ THE FINE PRINT, PLEASE:
• Bicycling involves inherent risks and requires that participants be in proper physical condition. When you RSVP "yes" to a Bike Rockville event, that RSVP is your digital signature attesting that you have read, understood, and agreed to the group's Liability Waiver and Release, [located here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BocKiaMJwba62c7b583CoOxIYamFiaWN/view?usp=sharing)
• HELMETS ARE REQUIRED for all riders on every ride.
• We strongly recommend you bring a water bottle, spare tube, cell phone, ID card, and cash or credit card for emergencies.
• Rain at start cancels the ride; Wet pavement does not.
High Interaction Board Games at Western Market
We will play high interaction Euros.
Events will start with quick games while people arrive and eat lunch. We will start longer games between 1:30pm and 2pm. While the official end time is 5pm, people are welcome to continue playing games afterwards. Western Market closes at 7pm on Sundays.
This page has more examples of high interaction Euros: [Old-school German-style Games](https://boardgamegeek.com/guild/view/3948). Here are some games that have been played at past events:
High Interaction Euros
* [Medici](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/46/medici)
* [Catan](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/13/catan)
* [Hansa Teutonica](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/43015/hansa-teutonica)
* [Puerto Rico](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/3076/puerto-rico)
* [Concordia](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/124361/concordia)
* [Power Grid](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/2651/power-grid)
* [Brass: Birmingham](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/224517/brass-birmingham)
Other high interaction games
* [Innovation](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/63888/innovation)
* [Imperial](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/24181/imperial)
There are a variety of food and drink options. Western Market is allowing us to use the space for free. Please reciprocate by purchasing something, even if it is just a soda.
Directions
If you're taking the Orange, Silver, or Blue lines, exit at the Foggy Bottom metro station and walk two blocks to the east. If you are taking the Red Line, Farragut North is an approximately a 15 minute walk away.
There is also free street parking to the north.
Easy Hike: 2-3 miles Lake Artemesia
**Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park**
Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting.
We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome.
**Main parking lot:**
**55th Ave & Berwyn Rd**
College Park, MD 20740
Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT:
By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below:
1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death.
2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety.
3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in.
4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You.
5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.
Buy Local Events Near You
Connect with your local Buy Local community
Saturday Mornings @ East Market
Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating.
Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator.
Per what this group is about:
"Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."
How to Get Over Losses and Betrayls & Build Lasting Relationships
Join us for this free, in person meeting on the subject of betrayals, losses and how to get over them so you can build lasting relationships.
Do you want more motivation and confidence to build lasting relationships?
Are you burdened by a stressful relationship?
Unhealthy relationships can trigger feelings of anger, despair or self-doubt. They can create dwindling spirals of fights and seeking to make-up, or trying to “pin the blame” on someone or something. If you don’t find the RIGHT reasons, or select the correct sources of the problem, the problem can just get worse and worse.
Whether in love or personal ties, with friends or at work, our life really IS affected by the quality of our relationships. Good ones can promote pleasure and survival, while less optimum ones can lead to annoyance, anger, self-doubt, stress, or even affect our health and ability to survive well.
Whether you are suffering from a divorce, or a painful break-up, don’t know who to trust (or who to CHOOSE) as a partner, friend, boss or employee - the anxiety of relationship troubles can really make a mess of things. Maybe you’ve suffered a betrayal, or are dealing with hostility or criticalness or invalidation. Dwindling relationships can involve destructive behavior, where we hurt those we love, or start succumbing to self-destructive thoughts, attitudes or behaviors that spiral out of control and affect much more than our immediate relationship.
Past losses in love or life can affect how we act or react to new people and situations and hold us back from even starting to create new, possibly great relationships! How can one get back onto a saner course of action?
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: human relationships!
Break free from self imposed limitations
Here we will discuss:
• How to “erase” the trauma of past hurts and betrayals so that one isn’t always repeating past mistakes.
• Why and how do the negative emotions of others affect you?
• Why is my partner withdrawing and what can I do about it?
• Why do we sometimes feel compelled to hurt the ones we love?
• Fights & arguments - what's really behind them?
• What underlies “corrosive criticism” or the need to invalidate self or others?
• How one can stably change one’s outlook on life so they can affect positive change?
• Where do compulsive destructive behaviors come from and what can be done about them?
• How to form closer bonds & keep growing the relationships with the people you care about?
• How to enhance one’s own ability to survive and create positive healthy relationships whether in love, family & friendships or in work, business or one’s career?
Relationships can be hard and life itself IS challenging. Why not arm yourself with the knowledge and breakthroughs that have been made about the mind, mental reactions & interpersonal relationships, so that one has better awareness and control over themselves and life in general.
Learn where painful experiences are “stored” and how they can unknowingly affect us. You will also find out how one can “erase” those past painful experiences so that one is free to move forward without being tripped up by the past. Learn too, about what can lead some people to become “toxic” personalities and how to identify those traits in others so you won’t be tripped up trusting the wrong person.
Our free Meet-ups occur in a safe environment where one can learn, without fear of judgment or criticism, and without the recommendation of harmful mental techniques or therapies, just how YOU can get yourself onto a happier & more successful path: in love & in life.
We look forward to having you join us!
This class is held at the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.
Feel Good Friday: POWER BALLAD at the Gateway Film Center + SHAKE NO. 8!
Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor.
BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!”
SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php)
PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show!
Should be a fun one, Dan
In-Person Meeting: How to Improve Relationships with Others
Attend a free seminar on how to have successful and lasting relationships.
At this seminar you will learn:
How to spot and handle negative and toxic relationships.
How to get through the "rough patches" in a relationship.
How to choose the right people to work with.
The three things that make or break any relationship.
How to make a good relationship great.
All are welcome. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there.
Hosted by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.
Drop-In-Person Coaching (In-Person)
Have a small business? Ever wish you could just ask some questions around how to grow your business, get more customers or just know what the freak you are doing with sales?
Now is your chance!! Every month we are hosting the "Ask an Expert" at the Columbus Metro Library, Main campus. I will be there to answer your Sales related questions.
Drop-in for sales coaching designed to help small business owners, entrepreneurs, and sales professionals sharpen their sales approach. Whether you have questions on how to refine your pitch, are looking to close deals more quickly, or are working on building better client relationships, Smashing Your Sales Goals Coaches are here to help.
Drop-in to get expert insights, actionable strategies and real-time solutions to grow your business and generate higher profits.
Drop-In Sales Coaching is FREE + OPEN to the public. No appointment needed. First come, first served.
EPIC Learning created. Accelerate Columbus supported.
Richmond Zoom Online Speed Dating
**❤️🔥 Richmond Online Speed Dating on Zoom**
Online speed dating for Richmond locals — personality matched, hosted live on Zoom.
**Choose your age range to sign up:**
- **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Richmond&groupurlname=build-real-connections-at-day-trips&ar=18-32&face_v=9.0)
- **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Richmond&groupurlname=build-real-connections-at-day-trips&ar=30-46&face_v=9.0)
- **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Richmond&groupurlname=build-real-connections-at-day-trips&ar=40-58&face_v=9.0)
- **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=537.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Richmond&groupurlname=build-real-connections-at-day-trips&ar=55+&face_v=9.0)
**⚠️ Your RSVP doesn't confirm a place.** Click your age group below, register, and take the personality quiz. Spots are limited.
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**How It Works**
1. **Register** – Pick your age group above and sign up.
2. **Take the quiz** – Short personality quiz so we can match you well.
3. **Join on Zoom** – Your host will guide you through every round.
4. **Get matches** – Mutual matches sent after the event.
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✨ Speed dating from home — easy, matched, and fun. 💕 ✨
Gold Star Business Networking
Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!



























