Charleston

📚 Do you love reading, but wish you had a structure and a community to share your insights with? Join our small circle of curious minds (just 4 members per gathering) as we come together for an hour of focused reading—in the calm setting of a library or the cozy atmosphere of a café. Here’s how it works: First part: Quiet reading on your own—bring a book you’re exploring, whether it’s philosophy, history, psychology, literature, or anything meaningful to you. Second part: We regroup and each person shares key takeaways, insights, or questions sparked by their reading. This sparks a structured yet free-flowing conversation around ideas, perspectives, and personal reflections. Why join? Add structure to your reading habit. Discover new books, authors, and ideas through others’ choices. Build real connections by sharing and listening deeply. Socialize around something meaningful instead of small talk.

Hi All, This event is being held in partnership with the DMV Spades Meetup Group. Direct all questions to the Organizer and Host, Nne-Nne Abanobi. ***** 🎲♠️♟️ **Monday Game Nights & Spades Play in DC** 🎲♠️♟️ Stop in after work for food, fun, and games at 1942 Lounge in DC! ♟️🎲♠️ Play Spades and other games starting at 5pm! All skill levels are welcome! 🍸🍷🍺 Happy Hour Specials Available! Indulge in elevated vibes, craft cocktails, and curated experiences. 📍1942 DC Lounge 1942 9th Street NW Washington, DC 20001 ⏳️ 5pm to 9pm www.1942loungedc.com 🏈 Stay late to watch Monday Night Football too! 🏈

Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1975943804109?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest count. **There is no cover.** Support NoVA's only LGBTQ+ bar! There also is no group tab to worry about; order whatever you want on you own. The Go Gay DC happy hour officially starts at 6 p.m. on the front enclosed patio. Enjoy the happy hour drink specials (which last until 7 p.m.) The dinner menu is at [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/menu) Parking is usually available nearby on the residential side streets. This fun happy hour gathering brings LGBTQ+ folk, including Allies, together for conversation. Feel free to invite all your friends to join you there! **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. Crystal City Metro station on the Yellow/Blue lines is the closest Metro stop. When you arrive, go out the station, walk towards your left to 18th Street and then veer right and walk under the Route 1 overpass to Eads St. Turn left and walk to 23rd Street. Turn right. Freddie's is up 23rd Street just a block. Just look for the rainbow flags on the right side of the street! Freddie's was voted the Best Virginia Bar by Washington Blade readers. Don't like a smoky bar? You are covered: Freddie's is a smoke-free establishment. (Ashtrays are provided in back of the building if smoking is 'your thing'). Freddie's is an LGBTQ+, straight-friendly restaurant and bar. It offers Happy Hour daily from 4-7 pm. [https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/](https://www.freddiesbeachbar.com/) Arrive at any time that's convenient for you. There's no need to print out and show your Eventbrite ticket. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. This event is for 21+. Remember to bring your ID, as everyone who wishes to drink alcohol is carded of course. This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](http://www.gogaydc.com)**, Metropolitan Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [http://www.gogaydc.com](http://www.gogaydc.com) Mingle with fabulous LGBTQ+ folk and allies. Go Gay DC Leader **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)** will be there to greet you. Bring your friends and meet new people from all over the world. Casual attire is fine. You are welcome regardless of where you live. Guests from DC, Maryland, and Virginia often attend. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies

Come see the greatest Christmas story ever told: The 1988 action movie ***_Die Hard_***, starring Bruce Willis I'm not sure when this became a quiet American Christmas tradition, but I haven't seen this movie in decades and it's time to join the parade. - Sunjeev 6:40 PM showing Mon, Dec 22nd [Tickets and info](https://silver.afi.com/movies/detail/0100000082/) $14; Seniors $ 11 General seating / not reserved [Original 1988 trailer](https://youtu.be/jaJuwKCmJbY?si=6OVS0kq4tklcUlF9) [30th Anniversary trailer ](https://youtu.be/gYWvwkXreaI?si=AIdmMFB0qHV5-Xvq) [Xmas trailer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Wi28Vsi_ZU) Join us at AFI Silver Theater in Silver Spring. We'll meet at the box office at 6:15 PM, say a quick hello, grab our seats, and watch the 6:40 showing. Afterwards we can find our way to a local spot to talk about the movie and what other shows we might want to see. "In LA to visit his estranged wife (Bonnie Bedelia), tough-as-nails New York cop John McClane (Bruce Willis) barely has time to feel out of place at her company Christmas party before a band of terrorists takes the building hostage, demanding the $600 million in the company vault. Masterminding the plot is sophisticated villain Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman); bumbling the response are the LAPD and the FBI. McClane is in the wrong place at the wrong time, but he is the right man for the job, fighting his way through “40 stories of sheer adventure” in this supremely well-crafted, exciting and often hilarious thrill ride — much imitated, never equaled and still unsurpassed. DIR John McTiernan; SCR Jeb Stuart, Steven E. de Souza, from the novel “Nothing Lasts Forever” by Roderick Thorp; PROD Lawrence Gordon, Joel Silver. U.S., 1988, color, 132 min. RATED R "

**🎉 Book Swap: Bring Your Books to the The Potter's House Café & Bookstore! 📚** 📅 **Date:** Monday, December 22nd, 2025 🕒 **Time:** 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 📍 **Location:** The Potter's House Café & Bookstore - 1658 Columbia Rd NW, Washington, DC 20009 **Agenda:** * **6:00 PM - 6:30 PM** \- Check\-in and chat * **6:30 PM - 7:00 PM** \- Introductions * **7:00 PM - 8:00 PM** \- Book swap **Please note**: * Gently used books are ideal for swapping. * If a book you bring isn’t swapped, you will have the option to donate it to The Potter's House community shelf. * This is a “stay-and-swap” event, so please join with the intention of engaging and connecting with the group.

Social Sips & Bites friends, we heard you. A few of you reached out asking if we had anything planned for Christmas Eve. Melissa and I are happy to share that yes, we’re putting something together. We’re organizing a relaxed, casual walk through Old Town Alexandria, followed by a cozy group dinner at (any restaurant we can find open that night). It will be a great chance to enjoy the festive lights, have good conversation, and spend time together before the holiday. This will be a small, and fun group.

Please join members of the Fairlington Social Club as we celebrate "Festivus" on Tuesday December 23, 2025 at Guapo's Mexican restaurant located at 4028 Campbell Avenue Arlington, VA 22206 starting at 5:00 PM. "Festivus" is your heritage - it's part of who you are! The five tenets of "Festivus" are: * "Festivus Pole" * "Festivus Dinner" * "Airing of Grievances" * "Feats of Strength" * "Festivus Miracle" We will begin by quaffing margaritas and enjoying chips & salsa (no double dipping) while admiring the "Festivus Pole" comprised of aluminum with a very high strength-to-weight ratio. After celebrating the "Festivus Dinner", yada... yada... yada... we will continue the quaffage while engaging in practices such as the "Airing of Grievances" and the "Feats of Strength." If you have not yet finished your Christmas Shopping, celebrate a "Festivus Miracle" by making a donation to "The Human Fund" in the name of someone in lieu of buying them a Christmas gift. Yama-Hama! "Happy Festivus!" "Festivus" is always celebrated on December 23rd. Why December 23rd you ask? You have family & friends coming into town to visit you for Christmas, therefore you need a drink! You are leaving town for Christmas to visit family & friends, therefore you need a drink! Not familiar with the tradition of "Festivus" ? Watch the story of "Festivus" on-line at YouTube 04:37 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HX55AzGku5Y](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HX55AzGku5Y) We will be in the bar area. Look for the aluminum "Festivus Pole" ! And remember... Until you pin me, "Festivus" is not over. Serenity now!

Join us on this special Christmas Day afternoon walking tour of America’s most park, Lafayette Square, D.C.!! In keeping with the holiday spirit, we’ll focus on fun and uplifting stories about the Square’s many heroes & heroines and inspiring events. (As well as a few villains and femme fatales.) When: Thursday, Dec. 25, 3 pm!. Where: MEET in front of the John A. Wilson Building, DC City Hall, 1350 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20006. At 13 1/2 St. and Penn. Ave. PrePay and Pre-Register at: Eventbrite: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/special-christmas-afternoon-tour-of-dcs-heroes-heroines-thurs-dec-25-tickets-1978551995279?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/special-christmas-afternoon-tour-of-dcs-heroes-heroines-thurs-dec-25-tickets-1978551995279?aff=oddtdtcreator) Or, PayPal, sending $22 to [savvyveteran@gmail.com](mailto:savvyveteran@gmail.com) via: [https://www.paypal.com/us/home](https://www.paypal.com/us/home) Or, pay $21 in cash at the start of the tour. The tour will draw on stories from the guide’s book, The White House’s Unruly Neighborhood: [https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Secret_History_of_the_Capitol/NaC-zQEACAAJ?hl=en](https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Secret_History_of_the_Capitol/NaC-zQEACAAJ?hl=en) Our fun itinerary will select from: • The capital's newest and most inspiring memorial • How a Congressman averted a civil war, twice • The real-life Indiana Jones • Intriguing tales of the Washington Monument • The “miracle mansion” that saved the Mayor’s sister • The President and the friendly Pirate • How an enslaved grocer founded a family dynasty that ended segregation • How an intrepid First Lady saved the Constitution and the Declaration • Winston Churchill’s Christmas treats • The hilarious political fundraiser that gave us the terms “Big Cheese” and “Mammoth” • How the Marquis de Lafayette saved a President, and how three Presidents saved Lafayette! • The benign, mysterious ghosts of St. John’s Church • The astonishing, friendly bet between a Navy hero and an enemy captain • Where a most famous anthem was written • Where a most famous speech was authored • The city's greatest philanthropist • Camels, bears, and sheep about the Executive Mansion • The First Lady who saved Lafayette Square • Holiday "spirits" • The wildest, most fun Inauguration of them all • A famed author’s moving tribute to his deceased wife • America’s greatest caregiver • How Southerners and Northerners conspired to save Mt. Vernon • How a humble washerwoman helped rebuild the District • Presidential humor And more! Your host is a former Presidential speechwriter and “Tonight Show” writer, and author of such books on history as: Lost History of the Capitol: [https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q](https://www.amazon.com/Lost-History-Capitol-Tumultuous-Congress-ebook/dp/B099JBSN9Q) Femme Fatalite: [https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit](https://www.amazon.com/Femme-Fatalit)é-Lizzy-Thorne-Novel-ebook/dp/B0F4945MR5/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0 America A to Z: [http://www.amazon.com/Patriots-America-Things-American-Should-ebook/dp/B00655SO9S/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1415975803](http://www.amazon.com/Patriots-America-Things-American-Should-ebook/dp/B00655SO9S/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1415975803) We'll wrap up in time for you to get to Christmas dinner. This tour makes for a great holiday gift, and is a sure-fire way to further spice up a festive weekend!

Rated R Action/Thriller 2hrs & 12min New York City policeman John McClane (Bruce Willis) is visiting his estranged wife (Bonnie Bedelia) and two daughters on Christmas Eve. He joins her at a holiday party in the headquarters of the Japanese-owned business she works for. But the festivities are interrupted by a group of terrorists who take over the exclusive high-rise, and everyone in it. Very soon McClane realizes that there's no one to save the hostages -- but him. Admission is 21 and Over Unless Accompanied By a Parent [Arlington Drafthouse FAQ-CLICK HERE](https://www.arlingtondrafthouse.com/pages/faq) All Sales Are Final-Refunds Are Not Available \* For groups of 8 or more that purchased tickets separately, please add a note in the comment section or a name under group code so we can seat everyone together. We will seat everyone together but section will be released 10 minutes before show time \* Your ticket confirmation email will act as your ticket at the box office when you check in \* Show your ticket after the show to receive a special discount at [Pike Cornerstone](http://www.pikecornerstone.com/) across the street!!

Greetings, For those still in the area during the holiday weekend, let's meet again for another Last Saturday of the Month Walk, Talk, & Dine at the Wharf DC SW Waterfront \*\*(\*\*not exclusive to introverts, empaths, advocates, veterans, music/neosoul/jazz fans). There is no obligation to dine or spend money if you RSVP as this is a free meet up event centered on building community, project development, making connections, promoting advocacy, supporting others in various life goals, and conversing with those who share similar values. Feel free to attend to connect with other deep, thoughtful, self-reflecting, down to earth, kind-hearted, creative, and free spirited individuals. Topics include but are not limited to currently reading books, business partnerships, entrepreneurship, finances, relationships, conflict resolution, advocacy, community service, health (e.g., habits, routines, self-defeating behavior, accountability), philosophy, metaphysics, and spirituality. Restaurants and entertainment venues at the Wharf include but are not limited to Officina Italian Cuisine and Lounge (Great Energy Group Saturday Night Hip Hop, R & B, & Soul from 10:00pm to 3:00am), Pappanonnock Oyster Bar, Zooz Cocktail Garden (Lounge & Bar), KinFolk Southern Kitchen, Milk & Honey Southern Inspired Kitchen (black/minority owned establishment), Fogo de Chao Brazillian Steak House (location of December, 2024 dinner; vegan/plant-based selections available), Politics & Prose Bookstore, Live-K Karaoke (open until 3:00am), La Vie Lounge and Restaurant, and 12 Stories Bar & Lounge (Hip Hop & R& B, NeoSoul/select genres; open as late as 2:00am). All are welcome to Walk, Talk, & Dine to include those of various backgrounds and ethnicities. There is no set time to arrive so feel free to come as you please/arrange with others any specific plans. Parking Garages available, Waterfront Metro within 2 blocks of the Wharf, ride share encouraged. If there are any questions or comments regarding this meeting, or if you would like to facilitate/co-facilitate (optional), please do not hesitate to message via meet-up messages or phone at anytime, thank you. Note: Feel free to post/suggest, in the event chat/comment section, any alternative Last Saturday of the Month evening/near future (e.g., December, January) events (e.g., different dining locations, prescheduled events) if you would like to connect/PreGame with others regarding various activities in the DMV, thank you. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Alicia (202) 627-0361 Sunday December, 7th, 2025 1:15pm.

Please bring white and dark shirts Small grass field Read comments below for latest info.

**Informational Event—David may or may not attend** You can park at Jones Point Park https://maps.app.goo.gl/QxhX31ioQTGnnwU29 Walk south under the Woodard Wilson Bridge, and there is a fishing pier to see the fireworks to the left of the Ferris wheel. We will meet at the pier: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Te99T6iSz7YqfwS59 * You do need a lens around 100mm (full frame equivalent). * Sunset is at 4:53 pm * The Fireworks start at 5:30 PM * Tripods are necessary for long exposures. * Fireworks only last for about 5-6 minutes. Typical camera setting: Manual Mode * Shutter Speed: 2-3 secs * Aperture: f/11 * ISO: 100 * Use a remote shutter mechanism (wireless or cable). * Use a tripod By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I agree to abide by the rules and regulations (where applicable) of the event location. I also agree to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **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!

WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.

First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).

Welcome, readers! ❄️ Our December read is **_A Quiet Life by Ethan Joella._** A Quiet Life by Ethan Joella is a tender, character-driven novel that follows three people in a small Pennsylvania town as they each cope with loss and seek connection. Chuck, a widower, struggles to find meaning after his wife’s death; Ella, a young woman, faces the heartbreak of her missing daughter; and Kirsten, a veterinary technician, grieves her father while contemplating her future. Their stories intertwine gently, revealing how grief and hope coexist—and how even small acts of kindness can help people rediscover purpose and peace in the aftermath of tragedy. Looking forward to discussing with everyone! At this meeting, our third annual White Elephant book exchange will take place! If you'd like to participate, bring a gift-wrapped book that you already own. On the gift wrap, write the genre of the book. We will meet at Zaftig Brewing Co in their event room in the back. We are welcome to bring in our own food, but **drinks must be purchased at the bar.** Happy reading! 📖

If you are interested in selecting investment choices for your 401(k) or other workplace savings plan, minimizing your income tax liability, or identifying the most effective investments for your brokerage account, we are the group for you. We are a local chapter of Bogleheads, whose investment strategy can be found here: https://www.bogleheads.org/wiki/Bogleheads%C2%AE_investment_philosophy Or you can peruse the Boglehead forum here: https://www.bogleheads.org/index.php I look forward to seeing you there. Mark Vonder Haar

Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Stauf’s German Village! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends! Afterwards, we’ll visit The Book Loft (next door) and stroll the shelves.