Sports and Socials

📍 **Venue:** Sportsbay - karama We play badminton here every Saturday 12 pm - 02 pm **Google Map Link:** https://share.google/ZmeMwUDIRTipZog22 **From Burjuman Metro Station - Exit 2** **Join our whatsApp group:** [Badminton for All - Deira/Quasis](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DCHMx6hAx3wEWDE93YTeJQ?mode=hqrc) **👋 First time joining?** [Click here to WhatsApp Sarfaraz (+971551899547)](https://wa.me/971551899547?text=Hey%20Sarfaraz!%20This%20is%20my%20first%20time%20joining%20Badminton%20For%20All%2C%20Dubai.) and confirm your slot. **📝 Key Info** This is a group open for players of all levels, nationalities, genders and races. Cost per session: 40 AED *Duration: Each session lasts 2 hours* *Equipment: We use feather shuttlecocks; please bring your own racket* *Slots: Booked on a first-come, first-served basis* *Play: Players will be rotated around multiple courts and will get games similar to their level of play* **Late Backout & No-Show Policy** **We strictly enforce our late backout and no-show rules to ensure smooth operations.** Organising replacements on short notice is difficult and disruptive, especially as our organisers have day jobs. Please be mindful of our policy: * **RSVP Policy:** Please RSVP for sessions exclusively through the Meetup app. WhatsApp is mainly for regular updates on attendance, timings and last-minute changes. Any requests made via WhatsApp might not be considered for session sign-ups. * **Late Backouts:** Backing out within 9 hours of the session is considered a late backout. You will be required to pay the session fee in full, even if a replacement is found. * **No-Shows:** If you fail to show up without notice, you must still pay for the session. * **Respect for the Organisers:** Our organisers finalise the list the night before or early morning. Last-minute changes mean they need to leave their work to arrange replacements. This affects not just the organisers but the overall experience of the players. * **Waitlist Responsibility:** If you're on the waitlist and no longer wish to attend, it’s your responsibility to remove your name. We assume that anyone on the waitlist still wants to join the session if a spot opens up. * **First-Come, First-Serve Basis:** We ensure fairness by adhering to a first-come, first-serve system. Please do not ask for special treatment or last-minute slots outside of this. **Note: Players may cancel without penalty up to 9 hours before the session. After this time, the session fee applies regardless of waitlist status. Please book and cancel responsibly to avoid disruptions for everyone involved.**

Join us for our next book club gathering as we dive into Lessons in Chemistry, a sharp, heartfelt, and surprisingly funny novel about ambition, resilience, love, and challenging the status quo. This meeting is all about thoughtful conversation in a relaxed, welcoming space. No pressure to have “perfect” insights, just come as you are, with your thoughts, questions, and curiosity. 🗓 Saturday 14th ⏰ 11:00 AM 📍 Bookends Bookstore Grab a coffee, settle in, and let’s talk books 💬 New members are always welcome, feel free to bring a friend!

💖 Valentine Yoga at Kite Beach 💖 Move • Breathe • Connect • Love **To attend this special Valentine practice and for more enquiries, please connect directly on WhatsApp: 📲 +971 545367991** **|| Our Valentine Session Includes ||** 💞 Heart-opening Breathwork 🧘‍♀️ Guided Meditation for Love & Gratitude 🤸‍♂️ Gentle Stretching Asanas (Postures) 🫶 Partner-friendly & Self-Love Practices 💗 Connecting with the Divine & Loving Awareness within 🌅 Shavasana with Sunset Healing 🎯 Mindfulness & Connection Activities 💚 Additional yogic practices specially designed for Valentine energy 📍 Location: Kite Beach, Dubai ⏰ Meeting Time: 4:30 PM 🌊 We begin the practice by the sea, embracing the sunset and Valentine vibrations. 📩 Exact location will be shared privately on WhatsApp after confirmation, as this is a selective group for committed practitioner **Session Overview** Celebrate Valentine’s Day in a soulful way. This Valentine Yoga at Kite Beach is a heart-centered practice designed to deepen self-love, emotional balance, and meaningful connection—with yourself and others. Through mindful movement, conscious breathing, and gentle stretches, this session helps release stress, open the heart space, and cultivate inner harmony. ✨ Perfect for singles, couples, and friends—all levels welcome. You’ll leave feeling calm, open-hearted, and emotionally refreshed. **What to Bring** ✔ Yoga mat ✔ Water bottle ✔ Towel ✔ Comfortable clothes ✔ Open heart & positive energy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ We look forward to sharing this beautiful Valentine sunset practice with you 🌅💞

We organise social football games for all level players to join. Each player will be provided with clean bibs, water, full match videos, match highlights and match stats like goals, assists, defence. Whatsapp +971585129190 to confirm.

https://chat.whatsapp.com/CcZmOYDOayu6KRWKFe0MES?mode=gi_t ## 🎾 Padel Meet-Up – Al Furjan, Dubai **Location:** Al Furjan, Dubai **Level:** Beginner to Intermediate (All welcome!) Join us for an exciting and social **Padel Meet-Up** in the vibrant community of Al Furjan! Whether you’re looking to improve your game, meet new people, or just enjoy an energetic evening on the court, this event is the perfect opportunity. ### 🔥 What to Expect * Friendly and competitive mixed matches * Rotational games so everyone gets plenty of playtime * Great networking and social vibes * Music, fun atmosphere & post-game chats ### 🎾 Why Join? Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UAE, and there’s no better place to play than right here in Dubai. This meet-up is designed to bring together players from the local community and beyond for a relaxed but engaging sporting experience. ### 📋 Event Details * Rackets available upon request * Please arrive 10–15 minutes early * Limited spots available – RSVP required * Dress comfortably and bring water Whether you're new to padel or already rallying like a pro, come along and enjoy great games and even better company. **Let’s rally, connect, and make it a match to remember! 🎾**

Ready for an evening where new faces, soulful beats, and big energy come together in one unforgettable vibe? 🌃 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** Join us for the next edition of our social — a curated night to meet new people, spark real conversations, and enjoy the magic of connection. 💫 **​🌟 What to expect:** * ​Elegant lounge vibes with stunning views * ​Bold conversations, unexpected laughs, and surprising connections 💬 * ​Delicious drinks + an atmosphere made for authentic encounters 🍸 * ​A live DJ performance setting the mood with soulful melodies + feel-good beats 🎶 This isn’t just another night out. It’s a curated social experience designed for people who want more than small talk. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** No apps. No pressure. Just a room full of amazing people who appreciate fun, spontaneity, and great vibes 🔥 **👀 The Experience:** * No apps. No pressure. Just good vibes ✨ * Come alone, leave with friends 👋 * Laughter, toasts & stories that last 🍷 * The perfect mix of music, drinks & energy 🎶 * More than a social — it’s an experience 💫 This isn’t just a night out! It’s an elevated experience where the city lights are your stage and every connection feels limitless. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup)** 👋 So if you’re tired of ordinary nights out, come and see what happens when real connection meets party atmosphere. Join us for an evening where new faces, soulful beats, and big energy come together in one unforgettable vibe 🌃 **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-social-meetup) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Social 😊

Join us for an exciting Doubles Badminton Fun Night at **Xtra Sports Sharjah.** Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, this event is perfect for everyone looking to have a great time on the court. Meet fellow badminton enthusiasts, improve your skills, and enjoy some friendly competition in a social and welcoming environment. **Plying every saturday at 7-9 pm Xtra sports academy Sharjah.** **Cost will be AED 35/- Per person including court rent , premium feather shuttle and average 8 games will get every plyers.** **New plyers must confirm your slots through WhatsApp ( Rensin +971 501497147)** **Note: No cancellation on game day and full payment is applicable if any cancellation on game day** **Join WhatsApp Group ; https://chat.whatsapp.com/GUlBTloYtkrGVLb2ljK1ZV** This event is ideal for those who enjoy social sports, staying active, and connecting with like-minded individuals. Whether you are a singles or doubles player, come and experience a fun-filled evening of healthy living through exercise and sports. Don't miss out on this opportunity to mingle with new friends, network, and have a blast playing indoor badminton. Let's make this a memorable night of sports, recreation, and social bonding!

Looking for a cozy, creative way to spend your afternoon and meet new people? Come join us for a relaxing Painting Meetup — complete with coffee, painting and good company. Whether you're an artist or a complete beginner, this is all about having fun, expressing yourself, and making genuine connections. ✨ What’s included: 🎨 choose your base- wall art/ Mandala and all painting supplies ☕ Coffee/ any hot beverage Perfect for: Creatives and non-creatives alike New people in town Solo, couples, friends all are welcome Anyone looking for a fun, low-pressure way to meet others 📍 DIFC 📅 15 February , Sunday 12-2PM 💵 AED 99 🔗 Whatsapp +971 529810589 https://www.instagram.com/dubaicreativemeetups Whatsapp community - https://chat.whatsapp.com/E3qoJlZfdcaAkyu0tf6xbI Unfortunately we won’t be able to entertain walk ins as we have to arrange all materials in advance, please pre book.

Receive a discount on your pizza, meet Emirati Poets, socialize with the community, & grow professionally in Arabic and Emirati Culture! [Join our whatsapp community!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LJsZpnl4d6t5CGfvSTrgct?mode=hqrt2)

REGISTRATION THROUGH WHATSAPP: 0552176382 SOCIAL FOOTBALL GAMES FOR ALL LEVELS. FEES ARE 40 AED Cash And 45 AED Online.

https://chat.whatsapp.com/CcZmOYDOayu6KRWKFe0MES?mode=gi_t ## 🎾 Padel Meet-Up – Al Furjan, Dubai **Location:** Al Furjan, Dubai **Level:** Beginner to Intermediate (All welcome!) Join us for an exciting and social **Padel Meet-Up** in the vibrant community of Al Furjan! Whether you’re looking to improve your game, meet new people, or just enjoy an energetic evening on the court, this event is the perfect opportunity. ### 🔥 What to Expect * Friendly and competitive mixed matches * Rotational games so everyone gets plenty of playtime * Great networking and social vibes * Music, fun atmosphere & post-game chats ### 🎾 Why Join? Padel is one of the fastest-growing sports in the UAE, and there’s no better place to play than right here in Dubai. This meet-up is designed to bring together players from the local community and beyond for a relaxed but engaging sporting experience. ### 📋 Event Details * Rackets available upon request * Please arrive 10–15 minutes early * Limited spots available – RSVP required * Dress comfortably and bring water Whether you're new to padel or already rallying like a pro, come along and enjoy great games and even better company. **Let’s rally, connect, and make it a match to remember! 🎾**

**It is a paid event = Charges 45aed per player for 3 hrs of the game.** # 🎯 Welcome to Badminton Lovers Dubai! **The World's Highest-rated badminton community** from the heart of Dubai \(⭐ 4\.9 ★ \| 4500\+ reviews\) – where fun\, fitness\, and friendship come together on court\! Whether you’re a **beginner eager to learn** or an **advanced player seeking competitive rallies**, you’ll enjoy: ✔ **3 hours** of structured, mix-and-match doubles games ✔ Professional world-class courts at **Danube Sports World** ✔ A friendly, welcoming community of players of all levels *** ## ⭐ Why Join Us? ✔ Dubai’s **#1 rated sports & social group** ✔ Play with 5-6 players per court → **minimum waiting time** ✔ Separate courts for **advanced competitive matches** ✔ Beginner-friendly – guidance & support provided ✔ **Feather shuttles included** + limited rackets (first-come, first-serve) ✔ Exclusive **discounts at leading sports stores in Dubai** ✔ Social, fun, and a great way to meet new friends *** ## 📍 Event Details * ⏳ **Duration:** **3 hours** of exciting non-stop badminton games * 🏸 **Venue:** Danube Sports World * 💵 **Fee:** 45 AED (includes feather shuttles) * 💳 **Payment:** Online (CareemPay/Bank Transfer – 0509001406). *Cash is only for approved regulars (+5 AED surcharge).* * 🔄 **System:** Mix-and-match doubles for maximum variety *** ## 📱 New Players – Important At the time of RSVP, please WhatsApp the organiser: 📲 0563213256 Hamza 📲 0555236521 Rauf 📲 0509001406 \| 0502480751 \(Waqsi\) https://wa.me/971563213256 *** ## 💰 Payment & Cancellation Policy * **RSVP = Commitment** * Your RSVP is your commitment to attend. Please honour it. * Your RSVP blocks a spot, and you are responsible for payment unless you cancel on time. **Payment** * Payment is required **immediately at the time of RSVP** to secure your spot. * If you RSVP but do not pay **and** do not cancel within the allowed time, you are still liable for the session fee. **Cancellation by Players** * ✅ Cancel **12+ hours before the event:** No charge. If already paid, the amount is credited towards a future session. * ❌ Cancel **less than 12 hours before** OR **No-show:** Full payment required, even if you have not yet paid. No credit/refund. **Unpaid RSVPs** * Unpaid RSVPs may be removed by organisers **before the 12-hour window.** * Within 12 hours of the event, all RSVPs (paid or unpaid) are treated as confirmed and subject to the cancellation/no-show policy. **Event Cancelled by Organisers** * If we cancel, you will receive a **full refund** or a **session credit** (your choice). **Non-Payment Consequences** * Players who fail to honour payment after a late cancellation or no-show may be restricted from RSVPing for future sessions until dues are cleared. *** ## 📸 Social Media Policy * Photos/videos may be used to promote badminton & our community * You can request removal in writing for future events * Past media cannot be deleted *** ## 👥 Guest Policy * Guests must be registered with **name & level** * RSVP holder is responsible for guest payment & cancellations *** ## 🏸 Safety Guidelines & Event Rules *(Badminton Lovers Dubai)* To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organised experience for everyone, all participants are required to read and follow the guidelines below: *** ### 1️⃣ Personal Responsibility * All players participate **at their own risk**. * Please ensure you are **physically fit and medically able** to play badminton before joining the session. * Warm up properly and play within your personal limits. *** ### 2️⃣ On-Court Safety * Always be aware of **other players**, shuttle direction, and adjacent courts. * Avoid running into other courts or behind players during active rallies. * Stop play immediately if a shuttle or player enters your court unexpectedly. * Wear **appropriate non-marking sports shoes** to prevent slips and injuries. *** ### 3️⃣ Equipment & Attire * Use suitable badminton rackets and equipment in good condition. * Badminton Lovers Dubai is **not responsible** for any damage to personal equipment. *** ### 4️⃣ Personal Belongings * Players are fully responsible for their **own belongings**, including rackets, bags, wallets, phones, and valuables. * Please do not leave personal items unattended. * **The organisers are not liable** for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property. *** ### 5️⃣ Injuries & Medical Emergencies * In case of injury, please inform the organiser immediately. * First aid (if available at the venue) is provided as a courtesy only. * **The organisers, hosts, and venue are not liable** for any injuries, accidents, or medical conditions arising before, during, or after the event. *** ### 6️⃣ Conduct & Sportsmanship * Respect fellow players, organisers, and venue staff at all times. * Aggressive behaviour, unsafe play, or repeated rule violations may result in removal from the session without refund. * Follow organiser instructions regarding court rotation, timing, and player grouping. *** ### 7️⃣ Venue Rules * All participants must comply with the **venue’s rules and regulations**. * Any penalties imposed by the venue due to misconduct will be the responsibility of the individual involved. *** ### 8️⃣ Liability Disclaimer By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * You voluntarily assume all risks associated with playing badminton. * **Badminton Lovers Dubai, its organisers, hosts, and volunteers are released from any liability**, claims, demands, or causes of action related to personal injury, loss, damage, or theft of belongings. * ## ✅ Ready to Play? Click RSVP, send us a WhatsApp to confirm, and get ready to smash your way into Dubai’s most exciting badminton community!

**It is a paid event. Charges 45aed for 2 hrs of the game per player.** # 🎯 Welcome to Badminton Lovers Dubai! **The World's Highest-rated badminton community** from the heart of Dubai \(⭐ 4\.9 ★ \| 4500\+ reviews\) – where fun\, fitness\, and friendship come together on court\! Whether you’re a **beginner eager to learn** or an **advanced player seeking competitive rallies**, you’ll enjoy: ✔ 2 hours of structured, mix-and-match doubles games ✔ Professional world-class courts at **Al Safa Sports hall** ✔ A friendly, welcoming community of players of all levels *** ## ⭐ Why Join Us? ✔ Dubai’s **#1 rated sports & social group** ✔ Play with 5-6 players per court → **minimum waiting time** ✔ Separate courts for **advanced competitive matches** ✔ Beginner-friendly – guidance & support provided ✔ **Feather shuttles included** + limited rackets (first-come, first-serve) ✔ Exclusive **discounts at leading sports stores in Dubai** ✔ Social, fun, and a great way to meet new friends *** ## 📍 Event Details * ⏳ **Duration:** 2 hours of exciting badminton games * 🏸 **Venue:** Al Safa Sports hall * 💵 **Fee:** 45 AED (includes feather shuttles) * 💳 **Payment:** Online (CareemPay/Bank Transfer – 0509001406). *Cash is only for approved regulars (+5 AED surcharge).* * 🔄 **System:** Mix-and-match doubles for maximum variety *** ## 📱 New Players – Important At the time of RSVP, please WhatsApp the organiser: 📲 Rauf (0555236521) 📲 0509001406 \| 0502480751 \(Waqsi\) https://wa.me/971509001406 *** ## 💰 Payment & Cancellation Policy * **RSVP = Commitment** * Your RSVP is your commitment to attend. Please honour it. * Your RSVP blocks a spot, and you are responsible for payment unless you cancel on time. **Payment** * Payment is required **immediately at the time of RSVP** to secure your spot. * If you RSVP but do not pay **and** do not cancel within the allowed time, you are still liable for the session fee. **Cancellation by Players** * ✅ Cancel **12+ hours before the event:** No charge. If already paid, the amount is credited towards a future session. * ❌ Cancel **less than 12 hours before** OR **No-show:** Full payment required, even if you have not yet paid. No credit/refund. **Unpaid RSVPs** * Unpaid RSVPs may be removed by organisers **before the 12-hour window.** * Within 12 hours of the event, all RSVPs (paid or unpaid) are treated as confirmed and subject to the cancellation/no-show policy. **Event Cancelled by Organisers** * If we cancel, you will receive a **full refund** or a **session credit** (your choice). **Non-Payment Consequences** * Players who fail to honour payment after a late cancellation or no-show may be restricted from RSVPing for future sessions until dues are cleared. *** ## 📸 Social Media Policy * Photos/videos may be used to promote badminton & our community * You can request removal in writing for future events * Past media cannot be deleted *** ## 👥 Guest Policy * Guests must be registered with **name & level** * RSVP holder is responsible for guest payment & cancellations *** ## 🏸 Safety Guidelines & Event Rules *(Badminton Lovers Dubai)* To ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-organised experience for everyone, all participants are required to read and follow the guidelines below: *** ### 1️⃣ Personal Responsibility * All players participate **at their own risk**. * Please ensure you are **physically fit and medically able** to play badminton before joining the session. * Warm up properly and play within your personal limits. *** ### 2️⃣ On-Court Safety * Always be aware of **other players**, shuttle direction, and adjacent courts. * Avoid running into other courts or behind players during active rallies. * Stop play immediately if a shuttle or player enters your court unexpectedly. * Wear **appropriate non-marking sports shoes** to prevent slips and injuries. *** ### 3️⃣ Equipment & Attire * Use suitable badminton rackets and equipment in good condition. * Badminton Lovers Dubai is **not responsible** for any damage to personal equipment. *** ### 4️⃣ Personal Belongings * Players are fully responsible for their **own belongings**, including rackets, bags, wallets, phones, and valuables. * Please do not leave personal items unattended. * **The organisers are not liable** for any loss, theft, or damage to personal property. *** ### 5️⃣ Injuries & Medical Emergencies * In case of injury, please inform the organiser immediately. * First aid (if available at the venue) is provided as a courtesy only. * **The organisers, hosts, and venue are not liable** for any injuries, accidents, or medical conditions arising before, during, or after the event. *** ### 6️⃣ Conduct & Sportsmanship * Respect fellow players, organisers, and venue staff at all times. * Aggressive behaviour, unsafe play, or repeated rule violations may result in removal from the session without refund. * Follow organiser instructions regarding court rotation, timing, and player grouping. *** ### 7️⃣ Venue Rules * All participants must comply with the **venue’s rules and regulations**. * Any penalties imposed by the venue due to misconduct will be the responsibility of the individual involved. *** ### 8️⃣ Liability Disclaimer By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that: * You voluntarily assume all risks associated with playing badminton. * **Badminton Lovers Dubai, its organisers, hosts, and volunteers are released from any liability**, claims, demands, or causes of action related to personal injury, loss, damage, or theft of belongings. ## ✅ Ready to Play? Click RSVP, send us a WhatsApp to confirm, and get ready to smash your way into Dubai’s most exciting badminton community!

We organise social football games for all level players to join. Each player will be provided with clean bibs, water, full match videos, match highlights and match stats like goals, assists and MVP Whatsapp us at +971585129190 to confirm your spot.

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

We'll play board games at the [Land-Grant Brewing Company](https://landgrantbrewing.com/). They have multiple [food trucks](https://landgrantbrewing.com/food/) on Sundays. Ray Ray's also has coffee, and the brewery has free water (and Jeni's ice cream). You can come late or leave early. Please just sign up so I know to expect you. **Notes on Parking** * You'll (probably) have to park on the street, but street parking is free on Sundays. * There are [parking garages](https://landgrantbrewing.com/parking/) a little farther away if you want. These are obviously not free, though. * There is a [lot next door](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.0%22N+83%C2%B000'40.9%22W/@39.957211,-83.0119921,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x88388f3efd89238b:0xc139207386232411!2sLand-Grant+Brewing+Company!8m2!3d39.9577613!4d-83.011426!16s%2Fg%2F1pzt7t9df!3m3!8m2!3d39.957211!4d-83.011347?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) to the brewery that you're allowed to park in, but it is not free. I've never parked there, so I don't know anything about rates. (I'm told though that if you eat at Milo's Deli next door to this lot that Milo's will stamp your parking so it's free.) * You're going to see odd signs on [Lucas St](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.1%22N+83%C2%B000'40.3%22W/@39.957256,-83.0124134,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zMznCsDU3JzI4LjgiTiA4M8KwMDAnNDEuNSJX!8m2!3d39.957993!4d-83.011536!3m3!8m2!3d39.957256!4d-83.011197?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) (saying it's a "private street") that will lead you to believe you're not allowed to park there, but you actually are. * Columbus parking cops literally do not work on Sundays. This means that, even if you're driving a non-EV, you can park in the EV spots near the brewery. **Games** I do bring many games, but please bring some of your own as well.

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

We’re heading to Tupelo Honey in Upper Arlington for our next group dinner, and this one’s all about comfort food, good vibes, and even better conversation. Think Southern-inspired dishes, cocktails that actually hit, and a space perfect for settling in and catching up. Whether you’re coming hungry, curious, or just in the mood to connect with good people, this is the kind of night where conversations flow easy and nobody’s rushing out the door. Come ready to eat well, laugh a little, and enjoy the company. Looking forward to seeing everyone there.

**Summary** Celebrate America's 250th year and the [Columbus Clippers'](https://www.milb.com/columbus) 50th season by watching [Franklin County's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Clippers) best team play the [best game in the world](https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/babe_ruth_140116) at [one of the ten best](https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/minors/2025/03/26/huntington-park-voted-top-10-minor-league-ballparks-usa-today-10best-awards/82656048007/) baseball stadiums in the United States in their 2026 home Saturday opener! The first pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. The gates always open an hour before the scheduled first pitch. I'm usually at the ballpark a half an hour before the scheduled first pitch. Clippers' games usually last around two and a half hours. Being a few minutes early will help us secure good seats. **Parking** I personally always like to park in the [McConnell Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/McConnell+Garage/@39.9685114,-83.0103938,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388f24145462d1:0x6238c0f0c851ab70!8m2!3d39.9692957!4d-83.0081175!16s%2Fg%2F1jkw6y27y?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). If nothing else is going on in the area, this should be $7. However, I've also seen it be as high as $22. I can't say for certain what it will be for this game, but once I know, I will post in the comments. Alternately, there are other lots in the area you can try which will probably be a few dollars cheaper. [Here is a map](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/q_auto/milb/ernng44ya2xkr4wbheql) of all the garages and lots surrounding the stadium. Keep in mind that many of these are outdoor lots and your car will be out in the elements. If you decide to look for a different lot, I would mildly recommend either the Buggyworks Lot or the Broadbelt Lot, but I have never parked in either of these myself. Although it won't apply for this game, keep in mind that street parking is also free citywide in Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf). **Where We'll Be** Here is a [map of the ballpark](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/qkqohbqjgtx5uwo6zkgn.pdf). We'll be sitting on Level 3 of the [Left Field Building](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/huntington-park) (aka the "AEP Power Pavilion"), which features a 110 foot bar with six open patios overlooking the field. This area is covered and will be out of any sun or rain that may transpire. If you enter the park through the Center Field Entrance (which is at the intersection of Nationwide Blvd. and Neil Ave.), there will be a door to your immediate right after you enter that leads to a staircase up into the Tower. This door is not well-marked, and if you've never been to Huntington Park before, you may wonder if you're actually allowed to go in and up the stairs. Yes, you are. We'll be on the Tower's "Level 3". I have uploaded to the Photos section of this event page, below, a picture of the sign you want look for after you ascend the stairs, so you'll know you're on the correct floor. **Tickets** Do not buy your tickets ahead of time. They will literally be twice as expensive if you buy them on Ticketmaster. Instead, go to the ticket window near the Center Field Entrance. Buy a *Standing Room Only* ticket (don't worry, you won't be standing), which will cost you a flat $8 with no other taxes or fees. These tickets never sell out, and this is the cheapest way to get into the park. **Carry-Ins** Per the team's [website](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/a-z-guide): "Soft-sided coolers are permitted in the general seating area [which is where we'll be], but not hard-sided coolers; also no alcohol, glass bottles, or cans will be permitted. SMALL bags or backpacks of food items and beverages in plastic bottles are ok. Reusable water bottles are permitted, but must be empty upon arrival. Diaper bags are allowed." I always bring a disposable plastic bottle of water and refill it as I need at the park. Bottled water at the game is something like 4 or 5 dollars. So if you want a bottle of water, I recommend bringing your own bottle instead of buying it at the park. **Food & Drink** The area we'll be in has burgers, hot dogs, salads, soft pretzels, ice cream, and other sorts of things you would expect at a baseball game. I've posted pics of the menu in the Photos section, below. The burger and fries are $14 plus tax, and they're not bad. (This is what I usually get.) The beer is *really* overpriced. It's like $9, or $20 for a pitcher. If there's some people to help me drink it, though, I'll buy a pitcher of Michelob Ultra. While we'll be on the penultimate floor of the Tower, the top floor (which has a great view, but is fully exposed to the elements) has a [Dirty Frank's](https://dirtyfranks.com/) hot dog stand. I've never gotten anything from there, though I've been told it's good. The Donatos pizza stand is also a very short walk away from where we'll be. I love Donatos, but the pizza is so expensive at the ballpark. It's like $9 for a personal-sized pepperoni. It is good, though. **Peroration** Let's (watch them) play ball!