Caribbean Culture

Hola, hola: Empezamos el año 2026 con la obra maestra de Eduardo Galeano, *Las venas abiertas de América Latina* (379 páginas). Vamos a dedicar dos días a esta lectura y, para esta sesión, trataremos la primera parte: LA POBREZA DEL HOMBRE COMO RESULTADO DE LA RIQUEZA DE LA TIERRA. El libro consta de varios subcapítulos y la propuesta será que elijáis tres de ellos y presentéis un resumen al grupo. Por otra parte, sería estupendo si formuláis algunas preguntas para estimular la conversación o preguntas de tipo Trivial para organizar una pequeña competición por equipos. No obstante, esta propuesta no es obligatoria. ¡Qué disfrutéis de América Latina! ¿Te interesa la lectura en inglés, francés o de la literatura persa?: [-](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros)[www.meetup.com/gaia-books](www.meetup.com/gaia-books) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) -[www.meetup.com/persian-culture](www.meetup.com/persian-culture) -Instagram: @persian_culture_

Improve your Mandarin and English while making new friends! Join [Manhattan Mandarin](ManhattanMandarin.co.uk) at the [Jackalope](https://jackalopelondon.com/) in Marylebone - appropriately situated above a Chinese restaurant, [Liu Xiao Mian](https://www.liu-xiaomian.com/). All levels welcome - these are **very casual** meetups where you're welcome to mingle until finding suitable language partners Pop down for noodles or stay outside in the lovely mews, but whatever you do, come ready to chat, make great new connections, and push your language learning forward 🤗🤗🤗 Feel free to bring anything you think will help facilitate language exchange! (games, flashcards) We often provide ice-breaker question sheets just in case you need some help 🤗🤗🤗 Let us know if you need some help mingling You're welcome to try our HSK Classes in Marylebone: [https://www.manhattanmandarin.co.uk/hskclasses](https://www.manhattanmandarin.co.uk/hskclasses) or our Saturday online HSK classes: [https://www.manhattanmandarin.co.uk/onlineclasses](https://www.manhattanmandarin.co.uk/onlineclasses) For more information please contact Harry@ManhattanMandarin.com, 07767260207) Since 2012, with a fantastic team of over 200 native and non-native Mandarin teachers in the US and UK, [Manhattan Mandarin](ManhattanMandarin.com) knows what makes for fun and engaging communication between English and Chinese speakers!

Stork is a modern Pan-African restaurant in the heart of Mayfair. They celebrate the bold, diverse flavours of Africa through innovative Afro-fusion cuisine—where authentic ingredients meet refined European techniques. Set in stylish surroundings, Stork offers more than a meal; it’s a cultural journey. From vibrant dishes and curated cocktails to soulful music, every detail is crafted to transport you across continents. Join us for their 3 course Lunch Set Menu for £45 https://storkrestaurant.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/STORK-LUNCH-MENU-16.12.25.pdf RSVP Fee is Non-Refundable unless cancelled by organiser

If you're looking for a laid back Saturday playing some board games and talking nerd stuff in a pub with some awesome people, this is the meetup for you! Whether you're new to London or just want to get some long-lost in-person socialisation, we're a friendly community and welcome you all. **What to expect:** We officially play from **2 PM to 7 PM**, but we keep it casual. Show up when you can, and stay as long as you like. If you’re having a good time, there’s usually a group that stays late for a few extra pints and chat. **Some house rules:** * We aim to ensure these events are friendly, welcoming and safe, and so we ask you abide by our [Code of Conduct](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YEl0gv61SkBFN-YF6fyVvuQYicWbWhRL/view?usp=drive_link) * We have a community box of games we keep in the pub, but please feel welcome to bring your own games along. Just be prepared to teach us how to play! * We don't charge a cover fee, so please help support the pub by ordering food and drink throughout the afternoon. * Please keep your RSVPs updated so we can manage numbers and ensure we can reserve enough tables.

## Amor de SalsaTrain Pre Valentine's Party & Abs Birthday Celebration! Get ready to dance and celebrate in person with us! Join SalsaTrain for a night full of passion, rhythms, and good vibes as we warm up for Valentine's Day and throw a special birthday bash for Abs. Whether you’re flying solo or bringing your crew, this party’s all about love, fun, and salsa moves. Don’t miss out on an unforgettable evening packed with energy and good company! Schedule for the night: 6pm- Doors Open 6.30-7.15pm - Bachata Line class for beginners and improvers with Abs and Alex 7.30-8.15pm - Salsa classes for beginners and improvers - with Dom and Trish 8.30pm-12am - Social dancing (Salsa, Bachata, Merengue and a bit of Kiz) Tickets on the night £17.50 for 2 classes plus party £15 for salsa class plus party £12.50 for party only from 8.30pm For early bird tickets and offers visit www.latindianevents.com or direct link - [https://amor-de-salsa-train.eventbrite.co.uk/](https://eur02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Famor-de-salsa-train.eventbrite.co.uk%2F&data=05%7C02%7CA.Kapadia%40mdx.ac.uk%7Cfdc1b99d8569432c544008de4ebfb677%7C38e37b88a3a148cf9f056537427fed24%7C0%7C0%7C639034782480311149%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=pMstgaHUtsqFpld%2BiceUT3SyVIPqkJ%2BvGKarwJ3eUlo%3D&reserved=0) You will be refunded or have your ticket transferred to another night providing you inform either of the contacts below by 7pm on the day you are coming. More info please contact Abs 07507634241 or Dom 07939587944 Venue details and information. Selhurst Railway Club is a stones throw from Selhurst train station - well connected by London Victoria, Clapham Junction and East Croydon. Upon arrival please press the buzzer and wait to be let in. You will need to show your pre paid ticket on your phone & asked to give your details to the club management. You will then be escorted into the room to board the SalsaTrain. The venue has a fully stocked bar at extremely reasonable prices & crisps, nuts. It is a very spacious venue and has a very comfortable feel with great wooden floor for dancing. All aboard!!!!

Let's all go to Singer Tavern (near Old Street Tube Station) for drinks, nibbles and conversation in 中文 and English. This will be a social meetup in a pub, so people will be seated as well as standing. But we still have to reserve a table in advance. This will be a **no-flake event**. If you need to back out, please change your RSVP or inform the event host at least 1 day before the event. This is a free social event to practice 汉语 and relax. **How to find us:** Lookout for the Hawaiian flower necklace on the table **Event language**: English + Mandarin for anyone who wants to practice. **Start time**: 18:00 London time (Thursday evening, February 7th, 2025) RSVPs close at 17:00 February 7th **Singer Tavern** [https://www.urbanpubsandbars.com/city-by-urban/venues/singer-tavern](https://www.urbanpubsandbars.com/city-by-urban/venues/singer-tavern) Singer Tavern [https://maps.app.goo.gl/yNTNSZHLQRrbboTP8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yNTNSZHLQRrbboTP8) 1 City Rd, London EC2A 2BH, United Kingdom Near **Old Street** tube station Estimated bill: £20 per person (reported on Google Maps) depending on what you order. \-\-\-\- **Icebreaker topics** It's always difficult to start a conversation with a stranger, even more so in a foreign language. Here are [a few topics](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1cEqhWLob9NO6YwPQaeAWgmr8S_VCFIntfZ_7hwGX_aw/edit?usp=sharing) we've recently used in our various online conversation events. This page is configured for easy viewing on a smartphone. Many thanks to Ashley for suggesting this. \-\-\-\- Banner graphic: *\- by Adriana*

**Join us for an exciting Art Exhibition hosted by the Black Art Enthusiasts Collective.** **This is not a free event details on how to purchase tickets below.** **Nigerian Modernism:** Nigerian Modernism tells the story of artistic networks which spanned Zaria, Ibadan, Lagos and Enugu, as well as London, Munich and Paris. Through groups like the Zaria Art Society and Mbari Artists' and Writers' Club, they fused Nigerian, African and European techniques and traditions to create vibrant, multidimensional works. After exploring the exhibition we will have a discussion after. [Purchase tickets here](https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/nigerian-modernism?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Grant_Exhibition_TM_Nigerian-Modernism&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22693752224&gbraid=0AAAAADxb_sRo4W45srSTRKSYseCD6Lbsu&gclid=CjwKCAiAlfvIBhA6EiwAcErpydq4Me425fwZSdmSPhOAptKWeNvyx9yEGOq9e6QhPrhbkKZu-sUhBxoCrj8QAvD_BwE) **Please arrive promptly at 13.45 pm to go in at 2pm**

Kick off your week with music, movement, and great vibes. Come solo or with friends—no partner needed! **Schedule (This Sunday):** • 6:30 PM – Free Bachata Taster • 7:00 PM – Bachata Classes (3 Levels) • 8:00 PM – Salsa Classes (3 Levels) • 9:00 PM–12:30 AM – FREE Social Dancing (Salsa, Bachata, a touch of Kiz) **What to expect:** • Friendly teachers, clear level splits, and lots of practice time • Great music and a welcoming crowd for all levels—absolute beginners to improvers • Central location, easy transport, and good vibes all night **Why social dancing is good for you:** Social dancing is a fun workout that boosts your cardio, coordination, and posture—without feeling like “exercise.” It reduces stress, fires up your brain with musical timing and footwork patterns, and improves confidence through gentle challenges and quick wins. Dancing with different partners builds connection, empathy, and communication skills (you literally learn to “listen” with your body). It’s also an incredible way to make friends and feel part of a community—one song at a time. Good to know: • No partner or experience required • Wear comfy shoes, bring water, and arrive a bit early for level check-in • Classes start right on time—don’t miss your warm-up! Price: £10 one class £12 two classes 6:30 PM class is FREE intro to bachata RSVP now so we can plan levels and floor space. See you on the dance floor! 💃🕺

Hola, hola: Empezamos el año 2026 con la obra maestra de Eduardo Galeano, *Las venas abiertas de América Latina* (379 páginas). Vamos a dedicar dos días a esta lectura y, para esta sesión, trataremos la segunda parte: EL DESARROLLO ES UN VIAJE CON MÁS NÁUFRAGOS QUE NAVEGANTES. El libro consta de varios subcapítulos y la propuesta será que elijáis tres de ellos y presentéis un resumen al grupo. Por otra parte, sería estupendo si formuláis algunas preguntas para estimular la conversación o preguntas de tipo Trivial para organizar una pequeña competición por equipos. No obstante, esta propuesta no es obligatoria. ¡Qué disfrutéis de América Latina! ¿Te interesa la lectura en inglés, francés o de la literatura persa?: [-](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-libros)[www.meetup.com/gaia-books](www.meetup.com/gaia-books) [-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres](http://-www.meetup.com/gaia-livres) -[www.meetup.com/persian-culture](www.meetup.com/persian-culture) -Instagram: @persian_culture_

★★★ DRENA! SBK PARTY ★★★ London's Biggest Kizomba, Salsa & Bachata Party - 2 Rooms \- 10 years & counting \- 350\+ dancers every month\! \- 2 Rooms: Kizomba & Salsa/Bachata \- TOP Dj's & Teachers \- Dance Classes incl \| GENERAL INFO \| · 8:30PM - Doors Open · 9PM - Lessons (Incl in ticket price) \- Kizomba & Salsa/Bachata Lessons: \- 3 Levels: Beg\, Imp & Int/Adv · 10PM-2:30AM - Party · 1:30AM - STRICTLY LAST ENTRY \| PRICING \| \- £11 Entry incl Classes \- Adv booking from Website: **[https://rvdance.co.uk/events-and.../kizomba-party-in-london/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Frvdance.co.uk%2Fevents-and...%2Fkizomba-party-in-london%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExd2h6QkhVYWEwMmV4Z3pRWAEeCtPmgZfWG7hE08jgijpJ-Z3_C1XdM9vBQw9D8uMXp6KHvLa6mRFRM8sQZHs_aem_bBte6Cw_7ZVspJ-l8OSN7Q&h=AT1blLDTS0OG2EfYykacK07c8GtW4NSnXTzZd0QwnVJZS9SQjQUXFaLN81PafgkCz7CSYg2_Rn7_pgf4NRJmzg49dH0oI3dR1fgr_GU4cBK6YmPd6e5PdXaLXpR2Xf4_6rex01Y_8770UoHKGr4&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT3ecRdjktkRoADtKSdU9N21SWzP05uYXAUu6RfyEvfxLbU9XcOglyozFwHa9C5vPSmPr8GCATEsLYFSI6E_92EjYtlwT1RahmED-AZKLrCrEcNYziYswuARnUpdb10YmvYfizZaPiLb3Xh7V3mhOm7iXP1WFVhYKVI)** \- Adv booking closes 5pm day before \- £14 Cash on the door \(CARD ONLY\) \- Mandatory Coat/Bag check £1 per item \*NO OUTSIDE DRINKS OR CHEWING GUM ALLOWED\* \| VENUE \| 85 Angell Road, Brixton, London, SW9 7HH (8min walk Brixton Tube) \- Full bar & AC Established for over 10 years now, Drena Party is THE must attend dance event of the month in London. TOP UK and international Dj's every month. This event is all about ENERGY, ADRENALINE, GOOD VIBES, GOOD MUSIC and GREAT PEOPLE! Join us and come feel it for yourself - You will not be disappointed! \| FUTURE DATES \| \- Sat Jan 11 \(2nd sat\) Dress Theme: Show Your Style \- Sat Feb 8 \(2nd sat\) Dress theme: Black & Gold \- Sat March 1 Dress Theme: Animal Print \- Sat April 5 Dress Theme: Denim Or Diamonds \- Sat May 3 Dress Theme: Floral \- Sat June 14 \(2nd sat\) Dress Theme: All White Party \- Sat sept 6 Dress Theme: Sunset party (red, orange, yellow) \- Sat oct 4 Dress Theme: Leather & Lace \- Sat Nov 8 \(2nd sat\) Dress Theme: Afro-Chique \- Sat Dec 6 Dress Theme: Xmas Bash More info? Contact Us: Mobile/WhatsApp: 07528722813 Email: contact@rvdance.co.uk website: **[www.rvdance.co.uk](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rvdance.co.uk%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExd2h6QkhVYWEwMmV4Z3pRWAEerpxaerLpWhW_r8owge_5sUPwEsAEOKvjYkETjWIQrW47fBAItAQJzSANpU8_aem_2aFNUWF7FAFwmPyKSqpmEQ&h=AT1DZa2RkZams8wKqJ6Rmmwv6Rw01FAbD1ILLRX7wOW9TqEdePFlBOpZY9vlt1K3ONBJjNJn1ioh8M0OHcdytwVJ4JhW8L6LVBhZxVTSbCwEkeOS1gSzyzWFavnCAFPJqugVBX2yuZfP2wuaU1s&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT3ecRdjktkRoADtKSdU9N21SWzP05uYXAUu6RfyEvfxLbU9XcOglyozFwHa9C5vPSmPr8GCATEsLYFSI6E_92EjYtlwT1RahmED-AZKLrCrEcNYziYswuARnUpdb10YmvYfizZaPiLb3Xh7V3mhOm7iXP1WFVhYKVI)** Insta: [https://www.instagram.com/rvdance_co/](https://www.instagram.com/rvdance_co/) Whatsapp community: [https://bit.ly/rvdancewhatsappcommunity](https://bit.ly/rvdancewhatsappcommunity) Telegram channel: [https://t.me/LondonSBK](https://t.me/LondonSBK) Youtube: [https://www.youtube.com/c/Rhythm&VibesDanceCo](https://www.youtube.com/c/Rhythm&VibesDanceCo?fbclid=IwAR1f4LPjVNmxEmfhf3ySJwzIuMgqwYhlMcy1qUwgXsXN-cGZf-HZs3YqKxk) X: x.com/RVdance_co

Join us for a special edition of **Culture Exchange**, where we celebrate and explore the **diversity of cultures** from around the world thriving in the city of London. This event offers a unique opportunity to share and learn about **customs** and **traditions** from around the world. We’ll be exploring cultures across **Asia**, **Africa**, **South America**, **Middle East**, **Europe** and **Western** regions of the world **🌏✨** This event is **free** but you will be **required** to buy a drink before you can join us. Please support the venue by purchasing hot & cold drinks and food 🍕🥣🍰🥤🧃 **What to Expect?** • **Cultural Conversations:** Participate in enriching small group discussions where you can ask thoughtful questions about cultural traditions. This is a space to explore **cultural** and **personal experiences**. 🍜🏮 • **Cultural exploration:** Explore **family traditions**, **festivals**, importance of food, diversity of **customs**, **community** life. 💃🏽🎉🌍 • **Understanding diversity**: Discover how food, music, and festivals are central to daily life and **identity**. Learn how **friendship**, **social norms**, and traditions differ. 🕌🪔 • **Cultural influences:** Discuss cultural influences that shape **marriage**, **family dynamics**, and **societal customs** in different regions of the world. 🏰🌐 **How to get the best out of this event?** **• Respect:** While we explore cultures, this event is not a space for debating but about learning and understanding. No judgement on how different cultures and beliefs shape people’s lives. 🙏🌍 • **Be open:** We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for members from all cultures. You can help by keeping an open mind. 🤗🧠 • **Share:** Feel free to share your own cultural traditions. Everyone’s perspective is valued, and all stories are welcome. 🗣️🎉🌏 **Why cultural exchange?** * They provide **new perspectives**, leading to stronger **empathy** and deeper **connections** 🤝🌍 * They break stereotypes, challenges assumptions and promotes **open-mindedness**, enriching conversations and **breaking down** cultural **barriers** 🧠✨ * They provide exciting opportunity to **learn** about new traditions, food, music, society, family traditions and lot more 🎉🌏 **Who is it for?** * You are a regular on our **Deeper Conversations** event (have a look at our past events to know more) * You want more meaningful and **long-lasting connections** in your life * You enjoy learning about **different cultures** and have meaningful dialogue 🧠 * You crave more from life and know its out there 🌍 * You want to engage in **meaningful**, **challenging dialogue** 💬 **What's in it for you?** * Build on your **connections** which requires showing up 💡 * Meet **like-minded people** who are passionate about deep conversations 🤝 * Learn about **fascinating cultures** that highlight more similarities than differences 🤔 * Challenge your assumptions and explore **different perspectives** 🔄 * Leave with a fresh perspective on **different cultures** across the world 🌟 **How does it work?** * We will split into small groups of 4-6 people 💬 * We will provide topics and / or questions to facilitate if required ❓ * Take turns to discuss certain aspect of culture within the group 🧠 * We rotate after 30 minutes to explore another group or cultural topic 🔄 * Share final insights with the whole group during the wrap-up 🌟 **Ready to flex your mind?** 🌊 Join us for an evening of "**Deeper Discussions**" and leave with a **new perspective** on cultures across the world! 🌍 We really hope to see you there! 👋 **About Deeper Connections** We have a mission at Deeper Connections to improve the quality of people's lives through conversation. All our events are centered around the concept of connecting deeply, because we believe we all deserve to be seen, felt and understood for who we really are. To have the 'deeper conversation' approach when relating with others can change our lives and can change the world. **Our Values** * **Respect:** Treat everyone with kindness and consideration. ❤️ * **Open-mindedness:** Be open to different perspectives and ideas. 🧠💡 * **Active Participation:** Share your thoughts and engage in meaningful discussions. 🗣️💬 **Staying in touch** Interested in finding out about all the events sooner than on Meetup or staying in touch beyond the events, you can join our WhatsApp channel and community using 👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Channel](https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb6CBAdIN9ijrEYdv33z) 👉🏽 [Deeper Connections WhatsApp Community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/EqGsmF3021RKTwBpGcuR80) **Keep This Event Free 💝** If this event brings you something meaningful, you can help others access the same transformational experience. Whether it's £5 or £15, every contribution keeps these events accessible to everyone in our community. You'll find a QR code on your conversation sheet during the event, or you can contribute here #SupportYourCommunity 👉🏽 [Ko-Fi](https://ko-fi.com/deeperconnections) 👉🏽 [Buy Me A Coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/deeperconnections) 👉🏽 [PayPal](https://www.paypal.com/ncp/payment/DDSNCCFCYUEB2)

Host: 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/2ys7cdoz/pre-valentines-singles-social-party-with-karaoke-access-complimentary-glass-of-prosecco-rooftop-terrace-happy-hour-all-ages](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/2ys7cdoz/pre-valentines-singles-social-party-with-karaoke-access-complimentary-glass-of-prosecco-rooftop-terrace-happy-hour-all-ages) Single people socialising and partying in the heart of London, while keeping their eyes open trying to spot that special one that will make their heart jump You are very welcome to attend alone or with friends. We will be there making introductions, helping break the ice,, and act as a glue in the group. We have a reserved area/table where we can mix and mingle, so that everybody can relax and feel comfortable and we get to know each other. and then we are going to move on the dance floor! 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 is the event for you! You never know who you are going 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 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! Everyone arriving before 9pm receives a glass of prosecco (non alcoholic option available as well) Happy Hour till 8pm! Karaoke access after 11pm Dress code is smart/ elegant/ Smart Casual (smart dark jeans are fine but ripped jeans, sportswear, trainers/sportshoes and hats are not allowed). Zebrano Soho is a vibrant cocktail bar, restaurant, and nightclub in the beating heart of London’s most iconic entertainment district. Zebrano is more than just a venue – it’s a celebration of fun, flavour, and feel-good vibes. It offers amazing cocktails , great cuisine, multiple rooms and an outdoor rooftop terrace At Zebrano, we serve up delicious food, killer cocktails, and the best tunes in town – all in a space designed to make great nights unforgettable. Come for the vibe. Stay for the party. Leave with a story. For security reasons every guest must carry photographic ID with them (Driver’s License, European ID or Passport) independently of the age. Tickets are valid for entry till 11pm How to find us: When you arrive please ask to be directed to Marianna's area. Any issue on the night feel free to contact Ana: 07801038091 or Marianna: 07949526733 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: To see all our events please go to: [https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events](https://www.fatsoma.com/p/mariannas-events) 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

**In a time of division and isolation, come be part of the community that's rebuilding the town square, one table at a time.** In BreadBreakers, we use the common space of the dining table to have conversations where neighbors can **hear, be heard, and know one another.** If you're hungry for good discourse and deeper community, join us for lunch and a conversation on ***World’s Diversity on the Table: How Traveling Helps Us Understand Different Worldviews.*** Here’s how it works: For just two hours, a table of people set aside the need to "convince" or "win" and instead focus on sharing, listening, and connecting. Guided by an experienced table host, we'll tell our stories, try to understand each other, and practice being in community with those with different views or backgrounds. In a world of disconnection and surface-level interaction, we'll carve out some time just to be humans together and have a meaningful conversation. We'll be meeting at Wegmans, Upper Level Dining Area - look for your hosts, Albert and Todd. This will be a "bring your own lunch" gathering (or "buy your own", from Wegmans' great self-serve cafe!) BreadBreakers, an initiative by Restoration United Methodist Church in Reston, VA, is a religiously inclusive community where all beliefs, faiths, and stripes are welcomed. Our leadership and volunteer team includes people who attend Restoration and people who don't. **So - why talk about travel? Here's a word from this event's lead host, Albert:** *Travel is more than movement across geography, visiting cities, viewing landscapes and counting distances. Travel is also an inward movement: an encounter with difference that rearranges how we see the world and ourselves.* *When we travel, we are exposed to other ways of organizing life: different assumptions about time and values, family and belonging, work and dignity, authority and trust, hospitality and faith. Even brief encounters can unsettle what we once considered “normal” or self-evident, sometimes gently, sometimes harshly, not too much differently as we may encounter on the other side of our divided country.* *Some of us travel seeking beauty, rest, or novelty. Others travel to escape the noise, to understand, to remember, or simply to feel less confined by familiar routines. And when we return, we often carry more than we expected: stories, questions, discomforts, changed perceptions, or a renewed sense of home. The focus of our discussion is not destinations or expertise. It is about meaning. How encounters with different worldviews leave traces in us—and how those traces shape the way we interpret our own world once we return.* *Each experience is partial, each perspective incomplete, and yet, together, we can see more of the whole. Shared at the table, such diversity becomes something lived rather than abstract.* *This conversation shall prompt us to reflect on two simple questions:* 1. ***What do we look for when we travel to other places and cultures?*** 2. ***And what do we bring back—beyond souvenirs and photographs?*** We look forward to breaking bread and stories with you.

[TICKETS](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/polska-dyskoteka-carnival-masquerade-tickets-1980829156329?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=wsa&aff=ebdsshwebmobile) POLSKA DYSKOTEKA: Karnawałowy Bal Maskowy 🎭✨ Zapraszamy na niezapomniany wieczór pełen muzyki, masek i magii w The O Lounge, gdzie Polska Dyskoteka powraca z wyjątkowym Karnawałowym Balem Maskowym. Przygotujcie się na taneczną noc z długo wyczekiwanym powrotem DJ KAAT, która zaprezentuje swoje energetyczne sety i taneczne brzmienia, utrzymując parkiet w ruchu przez cały wieczór. Czeka Was wyjątkowa atmosfera, olśniewające wizualizacje, karnawałowy klimat i nieprzerwane rytmy. 🎧 Muzyka: DJ KAAT (powracająca DJ-ka) 🎭 Stroje maskowe mile widziane — zabierz maskę, energię i znajomych! Świętuj polskie dyskotekowe klimaty, karnawałową atmosferę i elektryzującą noc, której nie możesz przegapić! 💃🕺 ------ In English Join us for an unforgettable night of music, masks, and magic at The O-Lounge as Polska Dyskoteka returns with a vibrant Carnival Masquerade celebration. Get ready to dance the night away with the highly anticipated return of DJ KAAT, bringing her signature high-energy sound and irresistible dancefloor selections that keep the crowd moving all night long. Expect a festive atmosphere filled with dazzling visuals, carnival flair, and nonstop beats. 🎧 Music by: DJ KAAT (returning favorite) 🎭 Masquerade attire encouraged — bring your mask, bring your energy, and bring your friends. Celebrate Polish vibes, carnival spirit, and an electric night you won’t want to miss! 💃🕺

The Roadducks, having been around since 1976, are a legendary classic/southern variety rock band whose music brings you to life and goes down like Tennessee whiskey.... They are a MUST SEE band!!! We hope you’ll join us!!!L