Cider

*Shuggie Bain is the Booker prize winning debut novel by Scottish-American writer Douglas Stuart. It tells the story of the youngest of three children, Shuggie, growing up with his alcoholic mother Agnes in 1980s post-industrial working-class Glasgow, Scotland.* If you've been before and would like to help pay for the Meetup group, you can contribute "£1-2" per meeting (now collected around Dec & Jun). This optional payment does not apply to your first meeting and no-one is turned away for lack of funds. General plan: by 7pm some of us should be in the upstairs room at the pub but we usually start by discussing books to read in future in case anyone arrives late. Typically we'll talk about the book until after 8pm, when there's a short break to go to the bar, then any further discussion till after 9, though of course you can leave at any point. The Shirker's Rest takes cards, not cash, and serves a range of soft drinks, wine and spirits in addition to their beer and cider selection [https://theshirkersrest.co.uk/drinks/ ](https://theshirkersrest.co.uk/drinks/)\- they don't have a kitchen but encourage you to order from [https://yardsalepizza.com/menu/](https://yardsalepizza.com/menu/) ..! **COVID-19 safety measures** This is indoors though we should be able to open at least one window. Please do not attend if you feel unwell, or have a positive Covid test/symptoms - you are encouraged to a) be as vaccinated as you can, b) wear a mask if you prefer, c) follow current Covid precautions, especially if you're at risk of passing on or catching the virus

Ping Pong is all about Beer, Bragging rights and making Buddies! Come along to the Ping Pong Social at Bounce Shoreditch to unwind, meet likeminded people and of course show off your whiff whaff skills! This event is crafted to serve both serious Table Tennis players with lots of challenges & tournaments, as well as the social players with tailor made games for singles, couples, colleagues & friends. With music playing and drinks flowing you will be able to choose from a variety of creative and quirky games including Ping Pong Tournaments, Social Doubles, Round Pong, Weapon Pong etc. There will be prizes for winners that include bottle of Prosecco & Medals and free entry to future events. We are usually by tables 15,16, 17 this is where you should meet us. However, if we change the tables or if you can't find us for whatever reason, please call/text host Vin and/or ask at reception for us, and you will be directed to us. Experience includes: \~ 4 Hours of Ping Pong Entertainment Tournament for Beginners, Intermediates, Experts (Prosecco for the Winner) \~ Quirky Social Ping Pong games with Fancy Prices for beginners \~ Fun Vibe to socialise in UV lit up exclusive Ping Pong venue FREE entry to our next Beer Pong event for winners

**Workout with PRIDE (Functional Strength) at Marshall Street, just around the corner from Carnaby S**treet! 💪🌈 Join us for our weekly **WorkOUT With PRIDE** class, designed to boost your functional strength and improve your body’s ability to move efficiently as a whole. Our sessions focus on exercises that engage all planes of movement, incorporating both bodyweight and equipment-based resistance to build strength and coordination. This class is suitable for all fitness levels, so if you’re new, no worries! We’ll break down the big compound movements step by step, ensuring you feel confident before diving into the full workout. At *Workout with Pride*, our goal is for you to leave feeling accomplished, empowered, and more knowledgeable about your fitness journey. 💥 **Class Details:** * **Location:** Marshall St, London W1F 7EL**Time:** Please arrive by **6:30 pm** (changed and ready to go) * **What to Expect:** Full access to changing rooms and showers post-class. Don’t forget to bring a towel and some change for the lockers! When you arrive, just head to reception and let them know you’re there for **Workout with PRIDE**.

**SPACES ARE LIMITED – BOOK YOUR TICKET BEFORE THE EVENT:** **[https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1987603568779?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/startups-connect-find-your-co-founders-business-partners-tickets-1987603568779?aff=oddtdtcreator)** Join us for the **Tech Startup Founders Networking Event**, an exclusive opportunity designed to connect tech founders with potential co-founders and strategic partners. This event is ideal for startup founders seeking to expand their teams, collaborate with like-minded individuals, and build partnerships that can accelerate their ventures. **Event Highlights:** **Co-Founder Matchmaking:** Find potential co-founders with complementary skills and shared visions to help take your startup to the next level. **Partner Connections:** Meet strategic partners in areas like tech development, marketing, finance, and operations who can help accelerate your startup’s growth. **Collaborative Networking:** Engage with like-minded founders and professionals in a relaxed, supportive setting designed to foster meaningful connections. **Expert Insights:** Gain valuable advice and guidance from fellow founders who are navigating or have successfully navigated the startup journey. **Collaborative Growth Opportunities:** Discover new collaboration opportunities that can address challenges and fuel your business’s expansion. **Who Should Attend?** * **Startup Founders:** If you’re looking for a co-founder or seeking to build partnerships, this event is for you. It’s the perfect chance to meet skilled professionals and like-minded entrepreneurs. * **Aspiring Co-Founders:** Entrepreneurs or professionals eager to join a startup and apply their skills as co-founders can connect with visionary founders seeking collaborators. * **Strategic Partners:** Business professionals offering services in tech development, marketing, operations, or finance who want to collaborate with innovative startups. * **Investors and Advisors:** Individuals interested in supporting startups at the early growth stage can meet potential partners and explore opportunities for involvement. **Why Attend?** **Build Your Dream Team:** Find the perfect co-founder or strategic partner with the skills and experience needed to scale your startup. **Expand Your Network:** Grow your connections within the tech startup ecosystem, creating opportunities for collaboration, investment, and shared resources. **Access Growth Opportunities:** By networking with fellow founders and partners, you can uncover new ideas, solutions, and support that can help you overcome obstacles and accelerate your business growth. **Gain Insight from Peers:** Learn from the experiences of other founders who have faced similar challenges, gaining valuable knowledge and inspiration for your own journey. This event provides a unique platform for founders and professionals to connect, collaborate, and grow together. Don’t miss the chance to build the relationships that will help shape your startup’s future! How our event works: You are invited to join the dedicated Whatsapp group for the event and start networking before the actual event. This event will be hosted till 9pm; the key to making the most of speed friending is to follow up with your contacts over time to develop friendships. Dress code is either business or office attire or smart casual, no T-shirts, no trainers. If you have any questions email contact@thebusinessminds.co.uk Ticket for 1 person allows 1 person to enter the venue from 7pm Business Minds is looking to connect with suitable venues for our networking events. So if you are a venue in central London and would be interested in a collaboration with us then please email us contact@thebusinessminds.co.uk Please Note: **Tickets need to be bought online and are not available at the door.**

This event is mainly promoted outside of Meetup and we expect around 40 guests **Kindly note that this is a paid event and the average number of attendees for our events is 60-70 people. You can register on [https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/china-networking-london-ukchina-founders-investors-business-tickets-1989154282004?aff=meetup](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/china-networking-london-ukchina-founders-investors-business-tickets-1989154282004?aff=meetup)** Connect with Chinese and global founders, investors, and leaders in London. Build partnerships and unlock UK–China opportunities. Join the 4th edition of **China Connector®**, a London networking experience bringing together Chinese and international founders, entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals building bridges between the UK and China. Hosted by London Connector® at Hay Hill, this edition takes place in an elegant private members’ setting designed for meaningful conversations and high-quality connections. The evening brings together business leaders, investors, and innovators interested in cross-border opportunities, collaboration, and growth. Whether you are expanding into new markets, building international partnerships, or connecting with like-minded professionals, China Connector® creates the space to meet the right people. ⭐ **Why Attend China Connector®?** 🤝 **Connect Across Markets** Meet Chinese and international founders, entrepreneurs, and professionals actively working between the UK and China. 🌐 **Build Global Relationships** Form valuable connections with investors, partners, and collaborators focused on cross-border business. 💡 **Explore Opportunities** Discover partnerships, investment conversations, and market expansion opportunities across industries. 📈 **Meaningful Conversations** Engage in authentic discussions with individuals driving international business and innovation. 👥 **Who Should Attend?** This event is designed for: 🚀 Founders and co-founders 💼 Entrepreneurs and business professionals 💰 Investors and venture capital professionals 🌏 Individuals working between the UK and China 🧠 Advisors, consultants, and ecosystem builders 🏢 Business leaders exploring international growth If you're looking to connect with globally minded professionals in London, this is where it happens. 📅 **Event Details** Date: 1st June 2026 Time: 17:00 – 20:00 Venue: Hay Hill A fully hosted, free-format networking experience focused on meaningful international connections in a refined setting. Following this event, guests are welcome to continue networking at the London Connector® Business event starting at 6 PM. 🔗 **Throughout the Evening — Open Networking** Connect with founders, investors, and professionals while building relationships across London’s international business community. 📲 **Exclusive WhatsApp Networking Group** On the day of the event, you will receive an email invitation to join our exclusive attendee WhatsApp group — allowing you to connect, arrange meetings, and start conversations before the event begins. 📸 **Event Disclaimer** Photos and videos may be taken during the event for use across social media, marketing materials, and promotional campaigns. * [United Kingdom Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom/events) * [Greater London Events](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--greater-london/events) * [Things to do in London](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/ttd/united-kingdom--london) * [London networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/networking) * [London Business networking](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/d/united-kingdom--london/business--networking)

One of the leading lights in Champagne, Taittinger have long been revered for its supremely elegant cuvees. The house is one of the last Grandes Marques to still be managed by the founding family, and those deep ties to the region continue to shape Taittinger today. This tasting will look at the evolving house style with a welcome glass of Brut Reserve to compare against Taittinger’s latest developments: Domaine Evremond in England and Domaine Carneros in California. We’ll follow these with a comparison of the Prelude in standard bottle and en magnum. **The tasting will finish with two expressions of the prestigious Comtes de Champagne Blancs de Blanc (which retails for around £150 per bottle)** VENUE/SPEAKER: The tasting will be held at the Great Portland Street store of The Whisky Exchange when we will be joined by Kevin McKee. An industry veteran, Kevin has been a champion of champagne in the UK for the best part of two decades and has been the Taittinger Family UK Director since 2014 where he has worked closely with the family to grow Taittinger in the UK. **The ticket price for this event is £48.60 (+ £2.40 paypal/meetup fees) and I have reserved 6 tickets**. **Please note that Meetup charge an additional fee to attendees on top of the price which the Organiser sets. This fee is paid direct to Meetup and is beyond our control.** **MEETUP HOST:** Please note that I will not be able to attend this event (as I will be on my way back from my wine tour in Rioja!) so your Host will be Carl-Goran. **REFUNDS:** As I have to pay for the tickets in advance, NO REFUNDS are offered for this event. So if you need to cancel you will have to sell your ticket to another member. Cheers, Christos

**​Founders Running Club (FRC)** brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacer—pets, friends, family, are welcome. ​9:15 Bag drop at the Regent's Bar and Kitchen, Regent's Park: https://maps.app.goo.gl/MmZdAVM8yXT9euKc7 ​9:30 Warm Up starts at the Inner Circle & York Bridge, South Gate: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/qw45ehLmDQY7maMD6) 🗓️ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022 🌍 Now in 27 cities 📅 Running + Networking events + Community **Join the community [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats)** **Stay updated:** **Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/)** **Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/)** **LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/)** **Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC)** **Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)**

We’re heading to the Seven Sisters — join Leanne for a scenic coastal hike along the iconic white cliffs! 🥾🌊 🥾 Saturday 6th June 🌊 Distance: 14 km (4-5h) ⛰️ Difficulty: Moderate/Hard ☀️ Weather: 16 degrees, partly sunny 🍻 Most likely! We’ll be walking one-way from Seaford to East Dean, along the scenic coast and iconic white cliffs. There are some steep climbs but they will be worth it for the stunning views ✨ We’ll also stop for lunch along the way and most likely a pub at the end. It may be windy in places so bring a windbreaker or warm layer just in case — and don’t forget suncream, water and a packed lunch! Train times and bus info will be posted in the WhatsApp group. Join: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KHxMIRN8HwSAgReFT3h0no

Join us for an evening of [Sabrage](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sabrage) \- the art of opening a champagne bottle with a sword\! Richard Beck, Assistant General Manager, expert Sabreur at [Smith & Wollensky](https://maps.app.goo.gl/QL2GXenpJtXhztWx6), and a proud member of the Confrérie du Sabre d’Or, will guide you through the experience, where you will actually open a bottle of Champagne Lanson with a sword. The event is **£75** per person, and includes the champagne, usually a minimum of a bottle per person, because everyone gets at least one go at sabrage, but usually more, as there may be an opportunity to have a second go. After the hands-on experience, there will be a selection of canapés, perfectly paired with Champagne Lanson. The event starts at 6pm. Please buy your ticket here **before RSVPing** to the meetup: [https://www.smithandwollensky.co.uk/shop/events/soiree-de-sabrage-wednesday-3-june-600pm/](https://www.smithandwollensky.co.uk/shop/events/soiree-de-sabrage-wednesday-3-june-600pm/)

This weekend I'm going to be climbing at Aldgate City, maybe joined by some friends. Tag along!

Wine Not? is a women-only gathering before the Balancers Saturday social. Most attendees come solo, so it’s an easy and welcoming place to meet people and settle in before the night gets busier. London can make meeting new people feel awkward, especially if you're coming alone. This early social creates a comfortable environment where you can chat, laugh, and get to know a few friendly faces first. Expect a relaxed atmosphere, a few light games, and plenty of time to connect naturally. **At 7.30 pm the main Balancers social begins**, and the room fills as over **150 people usually join the night**. Wine Not? naturally flows into the rest of the evening, so you’re welcome to stay and enjoy the full experience. Coming solo is completely normal. Our hosts will be there to help everyone feel comfortable, included, and connected from the start. **Check out our past events here:** **[https://www.instagram.com/_balancers/](https://www.instagram.com/_balancers/)** **Want to stay in the loop? Join our WhatsApp community: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)** *Remember, our pillars are Openness, Respect, Kindness and Authenticity. Attendance at this event is subject to our [Code of Conduct](https://www.balancers.app/code-of-conduct) and [Terms of Service](https://www.balancers.app/term-of-service). By joining, you may receive emails about Balancers events and community updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.*

Unshackled will be one of the largest The Prisoners wines tasting in the nation this Thursday, hosted by Rose Marie in my absence. The Prisoner Wines have several dozen white and red blended wines using unusual combinations that are very different than traditional blends from Bordeaux or The Rhone regions. ***The Prisoner Red Blend*** is comprised of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Sirah, Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec. ***Saldo***, in the $30 range, has Petite Sirah, Grenache, Syrah, Mataro, Verdelho, and Cabernet Sauvignon. ***The Prisoner Chardonnay*** has, Chardonnay, Viognier and Gewürztraminer. You get the idea: no traditional limits in blending grapes. I will get a table for people to gather. It will be crowded, so be patient with this very popular. Feel free to bring your own food as it is welcomed at this local gem or order from the newly opened Worthington Inn, or local favorites such as Dewey's, Everest, Jet, Worthington Tavern and The Whitney. Each person pays their tasting fee, typically $15, and gets their wine glass, then approximately five pours of the wines being served. **Parking is tough**. Try the second lot behind House Wine accessed by the land by the back parking lot or the municipal lot one block north of House Wine. **Waiver and Liability and Attendance Policy.** Participation by you and your guests means you agree to the Waiver of Liability and Attendance Policies on our Group Page. People who have two more or Attendance policy violations are subject to removal from the group.

Join us as we discuss our June pick: Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider! Book description: Even though she's not one of them, Brynn has spent her life among the Alaha, training to be a guard and waiting for the chance to attend the annual market hosted by the Kenta–the very same people who exiled her adopted community to a life at sea. Going to the market is a rite of passage eagerly anticipated by all young guards, but Brynn does not anticipate breaking a century-long peace treaty while there. Nor does she plan for the intense encounter with an enemy soldier that now threatens to unwind the fragile coexistence between their people–and everything Brynn once believed about herself to be true. Brynn's loyalty to the Alaha is tested when the truth of her identity is brought to light by this soldier who's taken an oath to bring her back to where she belongs. Narrowly escaping death on the violent high seas, Brynn's connection to the Alaha is further tested when she learns about the world of magic she's been denied. She was once certain of her fate and where she belonged, but the dark, knowing eyes of this stranger have her questioning everything, including her heart. Packed with knife fights and seafaring adventure, METAL SLINGER is the smash-hit start to the romantic fantasy duology, the Fire & Metal series

🔥 OVER 50 HAPPY HOUR at PBR EASTON! 🔥 Looking to meet new people, enjoy great music, dance, laugh, and have an unforgettable night out? Then grab your friends and join us for one of the most exciting Over 50 social events in Columbus! 📍 PBR Cowboy Bar + Smokehouse – Easton 📅 Thursday, June 18th ⏰ 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM (and the fun keeps going!) This is NOT your typical quiet happy hour… this is a high-energy, country-meets-nightlife experience designed for fun-loving singles and couples over 50 who still enjoy getting out, socializing, and making memories! ✨ What’s Happening: 🎵 Live Music from 6:30–8:30 PM 🐂 Mechanical Bull Riding starting at 8:30 PM 💃 Line Dancing with Instructor from 9–10 PM 🎧 DJ & Dancing starting at 9 PM 🍹 Drink Specials All Night: $3, $4 & $5 specials! Whether you want to relax with a drink, hit the dance floor, try the mechanical bull, or just meet a great group of people in a fun atmosphere — this event has something for everyone. 👉 IMPORTANT: When you arrive, CHECK IN with the host under: “Doug / Meetup” to receive your wristband. 🚗 FREE Parking available across from the venue and at the Easton West Garage. Come when you can, leave when you want… but don’t be surprised if you stay all night! Let’s make Thursday night FUN again! 🎉

A time to make signs, pack swag bags, and have fun together in anticipation for the Pride festivities the week after.

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan

Westerville Pride Festival Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information! Location and other info will be announced soon :)

Happy Birthday to all June birthday people! I put this on the schedule because it's my birthday month, and this is my favorite place; it's also Dave Koczur's (MAFIA meetup leader) birthday on June 8; if you who are reading this have a June birthday as well, tell us in the Comments! For anyone off work or with a flexible schedule, come to Pistachio Vera in German Village for a tea and pastry. We will try to get a table outside. If convenient, you could put a fold up chair in your car in case we can all sit outside but we run out of chairs. https://www.pistaciavera.com/