Celtic Culture

Hey fellow Dragons! ++++++++ Interested in Chinese/German? ++++++++ Learning Chinese/German and need to practice or find language-tandem partners? Interested in cultural exchange? Want to meet awesome internationals? …Or just want to get tips on where to find good Chinese food in Berlin? Whatever the reason, come join us! The more the merrier: such is the Chinese way! ++++++++++++++++ Our meetup structure ++++++++++++++++ Our meetup is relatively unstructured. Groups often form organically and evolve and move throughout the evening consisting of members learning Chinese/German, members who are fluent/native, and the rest who are here to socialize in whatever language they're comfortable with and jumping into whichever conversation they find themselves in. We try our best to fulfil everyone's expectations so we can all benefit from the meetup and have a good time; if you have any suggestions or ideas (such as outings!) please don't hesitate to let us know! :) +++ No time on Thursday's? +++ We meet every second Thursday, but we sometimes have other events, which are not regular and occur on different days/at different locations. Stay tuned for announcements! Looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones :) Cheers & 回头见 Yimu & Xuedi

Hello friends! We are the team of CaféIN, an inclusive café in Spandau, inviting you to our German language café - Sprach-CaféIN! 😎 With our language café, we aim to create a safe space for everyone to practice real German, without boring grammar exercises and books, but over coffee, conversations and new encounters :) Every person will be warmly welcome at our Sprach-CaféIN, regardless of background and origin. We are happy to see each and everyone of YOU! Our events are not about politics, as we aim to build bridges and bring people together through language and culture. Participation is free, but every participant is **required** to order at least one drink or snack at the café. This helps us support CaféIN and keep this special place alive.

### **THE BEAR** presents: **COLD** *A night of true, personal storytelling* Winter has a way of showing us where warmth is missing — and where it suddenly appears. This month at **THE BEAR**, we explore the theme COLD: stories about distance and closeness, breaking the ice, emotional frost, quiet loneliness, or jumping into cold water — literally or metaphorically. On stage, everyday people from Berlin share true, personal stories, told live and without notes. No acting. No fiction. Just real experiences, shared in a warm, cozy atmosphere. You don’t need to know anyone. You don’t need to be “into storytelling.” **Just come, listen, and be part of the room.** **🔥 What to expect** • 8 short, true stories (about 5–7 minutes each) • Live music throughout the night • A relaxed, welcoming audience • Laughter, honesty, and moments of quiet connection **We start as strangers — and often leave feeling a little closer.** **🎤 Want to tell a story?** Anyone can put their name into our legendary hat. Names are drawn at random — courage counts more than experience. If you’d like feedback on your story beforehand, just write to us. hello(at)thebear-storytelling.de **💬 Language note** Stories are told in English (and sometimes German). **Everyone is welcome — listeners and storytellers alike.** **If winter feels cold, let’s warm up together.** **We’d love to have you there 🐻✨** 🎤 Open Stage · True personal stories (5 minutes) 🗓️ **Thursday, Feb 19, 2026 · 19:00** 📍 Theatre Pool, Berlin 👉 **[Tickets:](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/the-bear-berlin-presents-cold-stories-about-breaking-the-ice-tickets-1980509250482?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*1q61529*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzgxMjIwNDM3LjE3NjgzNDM1OTA.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NjgzNDM1OTAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjgzNDM1OTAkajYwJGwwJGgw)**[ €15–20 (sliding scale donation)](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/the-bear-berlin-presents-cold-stories-about-breaking-the-ice-tickets-1980509250482?aff=oddtdtcreator&_gl=1*1q61529*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzgxMjIwNDM3LjE3NjgzNDM1OTA.*_ga_TQVES5V6SH*czE3NjgzNDM1OTAkbzEkZzAkdDE3NjgzNDM1OTAkajYwJGwwJGgw) ## **Our Mission** ## *THE BEAR* **has grown into one of Berlin’s most beloved live storytelling events: a place where strangers become a community through the simple act of listening.** Supported by: [THE BEAR e.V. ](https://deref-web.de/mail/client/3fe0d0dh9KM/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fthebear-storytelling.us6.list-manage.com%2Ftrack%2Fclick%3Fu%3Db5d7f087b587f8f081c447437%26id%3Dfc0e2d8df3%26e%3D711d4db9af), [Moving-Speaker.com](https://www.moving-speaker.com/), [Female Speaking Berlin](https://www.femalespeakingberlin.com/), and [Experience Berlin Youtube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@Berlin-Videos).

Hier ist jeder willkommen, der die deutsche Sprache üben möchte (egal, ob Anfänger oder fortgeschritten)! Wir treffen uns jeden Donnerstag in Kreuzkölln - es gibt Snacks, Getränke, nette Leute und jede Woche ein neues Thema, zu dem wir uns austauschen. Everyone is welcome here, who wants to practice the German language (whether a beginner or advanced)! We meet every Thursday in Kreuzkölln - there are snacks, drinks, friendly people, and a new topic every week for us to discuss. الجميع مرحب به هنا، من يرغب في ممارسة اللغة الألمانية (سواء كان مبتدئًا أو متقدمًا)! نجتمع كل يوم الخميس في كروتسكولن - هناك وجبات خفيفة، مشروبات، أشخاص لطفاء، وموضوع جديد كل أسبوع لنتبادل النقاش حوله.

**A practical approach to understanding, creating and maintaining balance across 6 dimensions of sustainability.** A talk and workshop by Scott Bolden, co-founder of Baumhaus Berlin. What does it mean to live a sustainable life while contributing to creating a sustainable society and world? What are some practical and effective ways in our daily life to achieve these objectives in the short and long term? **PEACES is an acronym** describing six integrated areas of sustainability (**Personal, Ecologic, Aesthetic, Cultural, Economic & Social**) where we as individuals as well as organizations can have direct and positive impact on ourselves each other and the world right now. During this short workshop, Scott will explain the framework and give practical examples in the context of how the framework applies to what happens in everyday life. Participants of all levels of experience are invited to join in the conversation and also identify some practical steps that they can start taking on their path towards living a sustainable life. • Please arrive early enough to have time to explore and settle in so we can get the most out of our time together • Bring a notebook and an open mind... Workshop places are limited, please confirm participation with a short email to info@baumhausberlin.de with the subject: PEACES Donate-as-you-feel after the workshop (includes coffee, tea & snacks) We ask participants to consider: • their personal budget • the value of their experiences during the workshop in the Baumhaus • the value of supporting the Baumhaus so that we can continue facilitating these and various other types of experiences \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- support Baumhaus crowdfunding campaign ( https://www.goodcrowd.org/saving-das-baumhaus ) Baumhaus Berlin Gerichtstr. 23 VH Eg 13347 Berlin

***Note:*** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join the **Original Athens Pub Crawl**, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* ### Original Athens Pub Crawl – Explore Athens by Night: Looking for the best way to experience Athens nightlife? The **Original Athens Pub Crawl** is the ultimate evening adventure for travelers who want to explore the city after dark, meet new people, and enjoy an unforgettable night out. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, and groups, this crawl takes you through some of Athens’ most exciting nightlife districts, mixing popular venues with hidden local gems. Led by friendly local hosts, you’ll discover Athens in a whole new light—through its buzzing atmosphere, music, and social energy. Expect a night filled with fun activities, interactive games, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow travelers from around the world. Whether you’re here for one night or a full holiday, the Original Athens Pub Crawl guarantees a memorable evening of laughter, culture, and new friendships. **Highlights:** * Experience Athens nightlife with local hosts and fellow travelers * Explore a mix of lively venues, social spots, and hidden gems * Join fun games and activities that keep the energy going all night * Meet new friends from across the globe in a relaxed, friendly setting * A perfect choice for solo adventurers, groups of friends, or party lovers Make your trip to Athens unforgettable—join the **Original Athens Pub Crawl** and dive into the city’s vibrant night scene!

**Queer Bridges Language Café // Sprachcafé** with ***Michal*** for **LGBTQIA+** **[Free event with registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/language-cafe/w03-2026)** 🔵 Join us at our Language Café, where you can connect with others and engage in lively conversations. It’s a great opportunity to practice speaking, listening, and even learn some new vocabulary, all while making new friends and having a good time. No matter your level of proficiency, everyone is encouraged to participate and grow together. Come for the conversation, stay for the community! **What languages are represented?** We will have tables for English and German. Beyond that, it will be up to you! We hope to eventually host a wide range of languages and are excited to see this café grow with your support. **What if I don’t feel confident in my language skills?** Our language café is open to everyone, regardless of their language abilities. From beginners to native speakers – we will ensure it is a fun and safe space for everyone. Registration is required as it gives us an idea of how many people to expect and which languages you speak/look forward to practice. However, if you have not registered please feel free to stop by! Join us at our **Language Café**, where you can connect with others and engage in lively conversations. It's a great opportunity to practice speaking, listening, and even learn some new vocabulary, all while making new friends and having a good time. No matter your level of proficiency, everyone is encouraged to participate and grow together. Come for the conversation, stay for the community! *** This meeting is part of our **Queer Bridges** project, aimed at forging connections and providing resources for LGBTQIA+ people with migration experience. *** **General information** * **Language**: This event will be in German and English. * **Registration**: Register on our website by selecting the event, adding it to your cart, and completing checkout. If you have any difficulties registering for the event, you're still welcome to join us, and we will find a solution. * **Cost**: This event is free of charge. 🔵 *Kostenlos mit Anmeldung über unsere Webseite* Kommt zu unserem **Sprachcafé**, wo ihr euch mit anderen austauschen und an lebhaften Gesprächen teilnehmen könnt. Es ist eine großartige Gelegenheit, eure Sprech- und Hörfähigkeiten zu verbessern und neue Wörter zu lernen, während ihr in lockerer Umgebung neue Bekanntschaften knüpft. Egal, wie gut ihr die Sprache könnt, alle sind eingeladen mitzumachen und zusammen zu lernen. Kommt wegen der Gespräche, bleibt wegen der Gemeinschaft! **Welche Sprachen sind vertreten?** Wir werden Tische für Englisch und Deutsch haben. Darüber hinaus liegt es an euch! Wir hoffen, bald viele verschiedene Sprachen anbieten zu können und freuen uns darauf, dieses Café mit eurer Hilfe wachsen zu sehen. **Was, wenn ich mir in meinen Sprachkenntnissen nicht sicher bin?** Unser Sprachcafé ist für alle offen, egal, wie gut ihr die Sprache könnt. Von Anfänger\*innen bis zu Muttersprachler\*innen – wir sorgen dafür, dass es für alle eine lockere und sichere Umgebung ist. *** Dieses Meeting gehört zu unserem **Queer Bridges** Projekt, das darauf abzielt, Verbindungen zu schaffen und Ressourcen für LGBTQIA+ Menschen mit Migrationserfahrung bereitzustellen. *** **Hinweise** * **Sprache**: Dieses Event wird auf Deutsch und Englisch sein. * **Anmeldung**: Melde dich auf unserer Website (für das Event) an, indem du die Veranstaltung auswählst, sie in den Warenkorb legst und dann den Kauf abschließt. Das gilt auch für kostenlose Events. Wenn du irgendwelche Schwierigkeiten hast, dich für eine Veranstaltung anzumelden, kannst du gerne zu uns kommen und wir werden eine Lösung finden. * **Kosten**: Die Teilnahme ist kostenlos.

Dear Dragons, The year of the horse is just around the corner. To celebrate, we're having a dinner party at a Chinese restaurant. What will the year of the horse bring? 马到成功, 马上有钱, 马上升官发财, are just a few blessings that come to mind. Ready to hit the ground running in the new year with a tummy full of delicious Chinese food (preferably after the food has digested... you get the picture) and good company? We are happy to celebrate with you! Sincerely, Yimu and Xuedi \-\-\-Important Note\-\-\- This is a paid event (pay at the venue). We have a set menu (LINK below) from restaurant Ni's with a fixed price. Please check the menu. !!! Please also let us know in advance if you have any dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, etc.) so we can coordinate with the restaurant to potentially adapt the menu as needed. +++ check set menu here +++ https://1drv.ms/i/c/245b842c5017b525/IQBIfrXwVc70SrkSe4cmpEyQAQqyR58p_Gm3bN43HEb_848?e=Jnf3Tj

**Relax. Connect. Create. 🎨☕** After a full week of work, meetings, study sessions and life in fast-forward, it’s time to slow down. Join us this Saturday afternoon in Berlin for a relaxed coffee hang-out where this week's agenda is good company & warm drinks. You're also invited to bring some boardgames, drawing/coloring materials (I will bring an adult coloring book) **What’s the plan?** We’ll meet in a cosy spot, draw, chat about everything and nothing, swap stories and simply enjoy the moment. No pressure. No formalities. Just a bunch of friendly people sharing a Saturday coffee. **Who’s welcome?** Everyone! Whether you’re a Berliner born and raised, newly arrived in the city, from Germany or abroad, if you like meeting open-minded folks and spending some relaxed time—come join us. **When & how?** Saturday afternoon. Detailed time and place in our Telegram group. ➡️ Join us on Telegram: [https://t.me/berlinsaturdaycoffee](https://t.me/berlinsaturdaycoffee) Hop in, say hello, and we’ll share the final details. **Why join?** * Because you deserve a break. * Because you enjoy being creative. * Because you enjoy boardgames * Because meeting new people sparks fresh energy. * Because coffee tastes even better when shared. * Because Saturday afternoons were made for this. Respect and Safety: There is always at least one organizer present at every meetup. If you ever feel unsafe or bothered by someone’s behavior, you can reach out to an organizer privately. Your identity will remain confidential, your concern will be taken seriously, and no inappropriate behavior is tolerated — anyone making others feel uncomfortable will be removed from the group immediately. We hope to see you there. Bring yourself, your smile, drawing materials, your stories—or just your comfy self. 😊 Let’s make Saturday a little more laid-back, a little more social and a lot more nice. See you soon! —Your Saturday Creative Coffee Crew ☕

**Welcome to a new Mask-making Workshop!** As Carnival approaches, we are excited to invite you to a new, two-day hands-on mask-making workshop inspired by folk devils, spirits, and popular mythological figures from Latin America and Central America. This workshop combines cultural references, imagination, and craft, inviting participants to create their own expressive folk mask using recycled materials. No previous experience is required. In this context, devils are not symbols of evil. They represent creative **chaos, irony, protection, transformation, and vital force.** These figures often blur the line between human, animal, and spirit, appearing as guardians of the land, playful tricksters, or exaggerated reflections of social power and fear. **Day 1: Symbols, Archetypes & Design** We begin with a short cultural introduction about what the “devil” represents in Latin American folk traditions. We will explore visual examples from traditional masks and popular celebrations: folk spirits, tricksters, and hybrid animal–human figures. We will then choose a personal archetype to work with. Using a template as a base, and through quick sketches, we will design and define: •⁠ ⁠Expression: rage, irony, mystery, laughter. •⁠ ⁠Horns, nose, fangs, beard, beaks, ears, snouts •⁠ ⁠Human, animal, or hybrid forms By the end of Day 1, each participant will have a clear mask concept and begin **building the base structure with recycled cardboard and paper-maché**, which will be left to dry before the second session. **Day 2 — Painting & Finishing** We will bring the masks to life through finishing, colour, textures, and expressive accents. You will get insights on choosing your colour palette, mixing colours and painting with acrylic to get different finishing effects. The workshop closes with a collective sharing moment, where participants can present the character, spirit, or creature behind their mask. **Dates:** Friday 20 + 27.02.26 from 5 to 8PM. **Address:** In Friedrichshain. Exact address by e-mail. **Price:** 110€/ 90€ for regular students. Materials are included as well as drinks and snacks. **Materials:** All basic materials are included (Cardboard, paper, paste, papier-mâché, acrylic colours, fabric and thread, natural elements such as seeds, wood, fibres, or decorative details) We encourage you to bring your unique elements (your own special colours, personal materials or objects, small found items, fabrics, feathers, textures, or symbolic elements connected to your mask) **How to sign up?** Please send an email to **hola.berlinartclub@gmail.com,** and you will receive the registration form with all the details of payment and the exact address. Limited spots. About the teacher: **Rosi Diaz Roigt** is a graphic designer and illustrator with over 7 years of experience working with film production teams, bringing fictional characters to life through graphic design, prop creation, and movie posters. Passionate about art and sustainability, she specialises in exploring the creative possibilities of recycled materials. Her work draws inspiration from the beauty and power of nature, blending storytelling and eco-conscious design. **Find her work here:** [https://www.instagram.com/avant.rosi/](https://www.instagram.com/avant.rosi/) See you!! Rosi and the Berlin Art Club

* Find us on IG: [@neurocrafting.berlin](https://www.instagram.com/neurocrafting.berlin/) **Welcome to the Knitting Club!** °˖✧◝(⁰▿⁰)◜✧˖° Want to work on that project you have been ignoring for weeks, months... even years?? This is your event. We will give each other support while having some tea and biscuits. If you also would like to learn how to knit or crochet, yarn, knitting needles/crochet hooks, and instructions will be provided. **There is a donation of a minimum of 3-4 euros to cover the materials and organization.** In case you wish to pay via paypal: [[neurocrafting.berlin@gmail.com](mailto:neurocrafting.berlin@gmail.com)]

**Es sind alle willkommen! Wir treffen uns am 20.02. um 19:00 im Barfly für einen entspannten Abend. Ich freue mich auf euch!** Wenn du neu in der Gruppe bist, lies dir bitte unsere Haupt-Gruppenseite durch. Danke! Wir möchten eine Gemeinschaft gründen, in der Menschen sich treffen, austauschen und gemeinsam neue Erfahrungen machen. Unser Ziel ist es, eine offene und fröhliche Atmosphäre zu schaffen, in der neue Bekanntschaften entstehen und interessante Gespräche geführt werden können. Bist du neu in Spandau und hast noch nicht richtig Anschluss gefunden? Lebst du schon länger in Spandau und möchtest nicht immer nach Mitte fahren, um Neues zu erleben? Wenn du Lust hast, Teil dieser Gemeinschaft zu werden und gemeinsam schöne Momente zu erleben, bist du herzlich eingeladen, dich uns anzuschließen! Wir freuen uns auf dich! :) \-\-\- **EN** \-\-\- **Everyone ist welcome! We are meeting on the 20th of February starting from 7 pm at Barfly for a relaxed evening. Hope to see you soon!** If you are new in this group, please read our main group page. Thank you! We want to create a community where people can meet, exchange ideas and share new experiences. Our aim is to create an open and friendly atmosphere where you can find new friends and have interesting conversations. Are you new to Spandau and haven't really found your place yet? Have you been living in Spandau for a while and don't always want to travel to Mitte to experience something new? If you would like to become part of this community and experience some great moments together, you are welcome to join us! We are happy to see you soon! :)

**ENGLISH:** Welcome new Berliners and people considering settling in Berlin, are you enjoying the great weather we have been having in recent weeks? Soon there will be barbecues with delicious food... As someone who has been resident in Berlin for almost seven years I feel I would like to welcome and help people on a similar path to myself. We are meeting on Sunday at 2pm at Coffee Lories, Fennstraße 24 for drinks and snacks, before having a walk around the neighbourhood. Please join the Signal Group for communication or message me through the Meetup Chat to locate us when meeting. [https://signal.group/#CjQKIMFDA0ZnmCUtsEa85UZpZkk8Ijjfu_YI5Z9o0W34dAuoEhAXnTSlXShSNBpq28sPWzcD](https://signal.group/#CjQKIMFDA0ZnmCUtsEa85UZpZkk8Ijjfu_YI5Z9o0W34dAuoEhAXnTSlXShSNBpq28sPWzcD) If you need any tips or help with settling in Berlin, such as help with travel and help navigating the transport system please don’t hesitate to message me either through the Signal Group or Meetup Chat. Looking forward to the conversation, the drinks, and the company... **DEUTSCH:** Großartige neue Berlinerinnen, Berliner, und Leute, die schon eine Weile in Berlin gewohnt haben, freuen Sie sich über das ausgezeichnete Wetter, das wir in den letzten Wochen gehabt haben? Bald gibt es das Braten auf dem Rost mit köstlichem Essen... Denn ich jemand bin, der fast sieben Jahren in Berlin gewohnt hat, fühle ich, dass ich neue Berlinerinnen, Berliner, die auf einem ähnlichen Weg zu mir sind, Willkommen heißen. Wir treffen uns am Sonntag um 14 Uhr beim Coffee Lories, Fennstraße 24, für Getränke und Imbisse vor wir um den Kiez spazieren. Bitte treten Sie die Signal Gruppe ein, um zu kommunizieren, oder schicken Sie mir eine Nachricht per Meetup Chat um die Gruppe zu erkennen beim Treffen. [https://signal.group/#CjQKIMFDA0ZnmCUtsEa85UZpZkk8Ijjfu_YI5Z9o0W34dAuoEhAXnTSlXShSNBpq28sPWzcD](https://signal.group/#CjQKIMFDA0ZnmCUtsEa85UZpZkk8Ijjfu_YI5Z9o0W34dAuoEhAXnTSlXShSNBpq28sPWzcD) Wann Sie irgendeinen Rat oder Hilfe beim einziehen in Berlin brauchen, zum Beispiel Hilfe beim öffentliche Nahverkehr bitte fühlen Sie sich Willkommen mir eine Frage über die Signal Gruppe oder Meetup Chat zu stellen. Auf das Gespräch, die Getränke, und die Gesellschaft...

😌 **a FLOW Meditation is an active, fun & expansive shared auditory experience.** 💥 This month we have 2 dates **Sat 21 Feb schedule** 19:00 – Doors open, meet and greet, snacks & drinks 20:00 – Session Start, explanation, warm up & first round – planting seeds 21:00 – Short Break & Then second round – deepening the roots 21:30 – Closing, feedback, chill out 23:00 – End **+ Sat 28 Feb @21:45 for 1 hour, after community night buffet** 🔥 Flow is a state of being… an experience when you allow yourself to be 100% fully engaged in the present moment in a feedback loop between clarity and satisfaction. It is an undeniable sensation where things seem to be more effortless, pleasurable, in sync, and you can easily sense a connection with something greater than yourself; this is what we will create…: • a connected and mindful meditation where it is possible to blissfully surf the cutting edge of the present moment together… • a game where it’s possible to feel excited and calm in the same moment, and everyone can win as much as they like… Scott Bolden, founder of Das Baumhaus Berlin will share some very easy, practical and effective methods developed over the last 13 years of facilitating these sessions. Within 20 minutes participants learn to use the common sound space to create resonance in the form of improvisational music where it is quite common to experience some real flow moments… All of the session is done with eyes closed to avoid visual distractions and keep focus on the co-created sound space. • no experience with meditation or music is needed to participate and enjoy €10 -30€ after the session ---> Pay for the value of your experience 🔊 Audio samples • https://soundcloud.com/user-164945673/sets/flow-vocal-meditation-spring-2023-real-magic-with-11-strangers • https://www.baumhausberlin.de/en/2019/11/19/proof-of-real-magic/ • https://soundcloud.com/das-baumhaus/sets/improvisational-groove-orchestra-baumhaus-23072017 • https://soundcloud.com/scott-bolden/ebb-and-flow-p2-edit-2 • https://soundcloud.com/scott-bolden/gently-flowing-through-a?in=scott-bolden/sets/ego-session-5-nov-13-2014 Private session for groups and organizations are available upon request 💥 contact – info@baumhausberlin.de www.baumhausberlin.de Gerichtstr. 23 Vh Eg 13347 Berlin

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. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

# **Band: Old Possum's Menagerie; Caller: Richard Ades** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

**Caller: Frank Buschelmann** **Band: The Rosenthorns** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

The topic for February is "Transitions" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!