contests

We playtest all sorts of games - strategic, silly, creative, or whatever. Some games are almost done. Some are very early ideas. We test anything that will fit into 90 minutes. You don't need to bring a game - we always love to have new playtesters! Please let us know in the comments when you plan to arrive/leave and whether you are bringing a game or not. This helps us to plan the day better. The schedule is: 10am onwards - gathering, chatting 11am sharp - playing for 90 min ('slot 1') 12:30ish - break for food/chat 1pm sharp - playing for 90 min ('slot 2') 2:30ish - break for food/chat 3pm sharp - playing for 90 min ('slot 3') 4:30ish - finish up Often, we might hang around afterwards, to play some already-published games. We are strict on timings, so please try to arrive a few minutes before the session to limit disruption. You can just come for part of the day if you wish. The reason we have fixed timings for the 3 'slots' is to make it easier for folk to do so. Designers of all levels of experience are welcome! But if it's your first time, we ask that you don't bring a game and just spend some time learning how the group works. The group works based on reciprocation. If you expect to test your own game, make sure stay for long enough to play other games. As a general rule of thumb, you can expect to play one of your own games every third 90-minute session. So if you stay a whole day (3 sessions), you can expect to have one session to play your game(s). A good rule of thumb is that if you come all day, you will have one 90 minute session with two other playtesters in which to test your own games. It is sometimes possible to test games with more players. If your game requires 4 or more, please note that as standard you will be allocated half of a session (45 minutes). Pre-covid, we were getting unmanageable. As a result, we may have to limit attendees. This is a free-to-use venue, and we have to be mindful that other folk want to use the same space. Please note: This is an adults only event. We look forward to seeing you!

**Two lucky winners will receive free tickets to our exclusive rooftop meetup at a luxury aviary venue Saturday 16 MAY.** Join us for a relaxed and social language exchange hosted in a charming pub with a **beautiful terrace** — the perfect setting to meet new people and practice languages in a friendly atmosphere. When you arrive, **you’ll receive a pin showing the language** you’d like to practice, making it easy to connect with others who share your interests. Whether you prefer the cozy indoor space or the fresh air outside, you’re free to choose your seat depending on the weather. The event is open to all levels, from complete beginners to fluent speakers, so everyone is welcome to join, learn, and have fun. [Link To Purchuse your ticket](https://buy.stripe.com/eVqcN63DgeVT5nd0gi0Ba04)

Join us on Friday evenings at the charming L’ETO Café for a relaxed and inspiring social meetup in the heart of Soho. Whether you’re a local or visiting London, this gathering is a simple, welcoming way to enjoy good conversation and meet interesting, open-minded people in a cozy café setting. Expect relaxed chats, thoughtful exchanges, and a friendly atmosphere - all over great coffee, tea, and indulgent cakes. What to Expect • Meet and connect with people from different backgrounds - professionals, creatives, and curious minds • Easy, natural conversations in a respectful and comfortable environment • A social evening that’s friendly and low-pressure, with no formal networking or expectations From time to time, we may include a short, light activity (such as an icebreaker or quiz) and gently rotate seating so everyone has a chance to meet new faces - always keeping the focus on relaxed coffee and easy conversation. Whether you’re new in town or a familiar face, join us for an evening of warmth, inspiration, and genuine connection. We’d love to see you there. ☕ Please note: The event is free to attend. To support our host café, we kindly encourage everyone to purchase at least one drink. 📸 We share upcoming events, community highlights, and social moments on Instagram - follow us to stay connected: https://www.instagram.com/lsc.2026 ✨ Stay Connected with London Social Connect ✨

Join us for a weekly session of friendly and focused writing time. From 6pm every Friday: We'll be at the Auberge pub, across road from Waterloo. See full location info for how to find us. There'll be a sign at our table. \*(Please see full access info, further down.) ...... * We shut up for 1 hour of scheduled focus time - 6.30 to 7.30. ...Then time to chat or carry on at your preference. This is for writing of any description or experience level. Somewhere to get on with your own work, and connect with new people. Most importantly to not feel isolated in your pursuits, however big or small. i.e. If you're looking to further your writing interests; and for a comfortable social space; ...or just need somewhere to sit and focus before you go home on a Friday - you're welcome to stop by. Please RSVP to give us an idea of who is coming / how many. ........ **6:00pm - 6:30pm** * Find our table and grab a seat. Plus any food or drink. * We'll take 5-10 minutes to say who we all are, and welcome anyone new. * (No need to say what you're working on, but feel welcome to). **6.30pm - 7.30pm** * No talking. One hour. * You can leave the table at any point. * Anyone arriving late feel free to find a seat, we'll give you a silent wave. You won't get glared at! **7.30pm** Once 'Shut Up' time is over: * You are welcome to head off straight away, no pressure to stick around. * You are welcome to stay to chat with other members, as late as you wish. * Or you're welcome to just keep writing - if you're in the zone, no need to stop just because others have. The time is for you, to get the most benefit. . **FACILITIES / ACCESS** Mobility access is limited: There is a step to enter pub, from pavement (one entrance only) - Venue will provide ramp for step-free entry. Toilets are on ground floor. \*However there is no accessible or private toilet space. Apologies. (The closest are in the main station concourse, nearby.) Do contact if you would like clearer info before attending. **FOOD** There is food served all evening / including vegan options. You're welcome to eat whilst writing. **WI-FI** There should be working Wi-Fi, if you need it! 'Auberge Secure' PW: waterloo **DOG-FRIENDLY** Dogs also welcome. . If you have additional queries re. access or other requirements, do message us via Meetup or contact the Auberge directly. . **A note about the format** We don’t host readings and feedback. (But we can signpost to events that do). Whether you're writing for a professional goal, academic project, private thoughts and wellbeing, or purely casual enjoyment, (or still deciding!) - don't worry we won't be asking each other to share details. You can just arrive, make yourself comfortable with anything you need, and get on with whatever you decide. No-one will be reading your work or judging if you've met targets. We don't set group goals and deadlines: we're just here to help each other with our own - where needed. Or to switch off and talk about something else completely, if you need that instead! This is a social event and aimed at bringing new people together. Not just a co-working space. **Respect** Please also note our Code of Conduct: [www.shutupwrite.com/code-of-conduct](https://www.shutupwrite.com/code-of-conduct) ...And be aware this is an informal event open to adults of all ages and backgrounds. i.e. We expect everyone who attends will treat each other with appropriate respect and awareness, and feel able to interact comfortably. Any concerns don't hesitate to raise them with us. For a full view of events, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://www.shutupwrite.com).

**MONTY ENGLISH CONVERSATION GROUP** [https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london](https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london) **How to find us** When you arrive at the Royal George we go down into the basement and you will find us there. Just ask a staff member if you cannot find us! Here is the location of the Royal George on google maps: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/HpkySsu2rEqUUub1A](https://maps.app.goo.gl/HpkySsu2rEqUUub1A) * Food or drink at the pub is not included (please make at least one purchase - they have a good range of drinks and great food if you feel hungry) **How are the lessons?** The lesson is a General English lesson focused on speaking and error correction - every lesson we usually cover 3 different topics. This will encourage you to use new vocabulary and practise grammatical structures. The group has a limit of 25 people but I usually accept people if you are on the waiting list. You will be divided into groups of 3-6 with others of a similar speaking level so you'll have plenty of opportunity to talk and ask questions to your qualified, native teacher Jon. The lesson takes place in the relaxed environment of the Royal George basement which is a pleasant pub, a two-minute walk from Tottenham Court Road tube station. The lesson is ideal for pre-intermediate, intermediate and upper-intermediate students wishing to get to the next level. If you have any questions about the English lesson then please call me or send me a message. **Payment** Payments can be made in cash or by card (free of charge) when you come to the class. If it is your first time it is only £2! After your first time it is £6 for a single class or you can buy a ticket that makes each class cheaper; 5 classes for £20, 10 classes for £25 (you can use these tickets whenever you like and do not need to come in a set period of time) or 20 classes for £40 which has a limited use to within a six-month period. You can also pay via our website: [https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london](https://montyenglish.co.uk/english-conversation-group-classes-in-london) I hope to see you soon - if you have any questions please message me (via WhatsApp) on 07771 561 576 All the best, Jon (event organiser)

Host: Van \*This event is a collaboration with other groups and social networks and it will be well attended \*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from [https://www.fatsoma.com/e/i30mc67r/singles-social-party-in-shoreditch-with-complimentary-drink-happy-hour-all-ages](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/i30mc67r/singles-social-party-in-shoreditch-with-complimentary-drink-happy-hour-all-ages) Single people mixing and mingling, partying and dancing in the heart of Shoreditch, while keeping their eyes open trying to spot that special one that will make their heart jump Whether you are looking for a partner or just to meet and connect with other people who are at the same phase of life, this is the event for you! You never know who you are going meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it! You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a partner in life! Since this is a mix and mingle and not a speed dating there is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy. Connect with like minded people and open your social circle, enjoy chatting about anything and everything, with those you like, for as long as you like If you find somebody who you think you have a connection with, dare to ask their contact details right then and there... like the old times ;) Oh! and you don't need to ask the awkward question: 'so are you single?' because they all will be! You are very welcome to attend alone or with friends. We will be there making introductions, helping break the ice,, and act as a glue in the group. We have a reserved area/table where we can mix and mingle, so that everybody can relax and feel comfortable and we get to know each other. and then we are going to move on the dance floor! Simmons Shoreditch is a quirky cocktail bar bringing an off- kilter addition to the streets of the East. Just off Shoreditch High Street, this gem is notorious for a late-night party or 5. Its eclectic playlist and beautifully bonkers interiors set it apart from its peers. Famed for its rogue aesthetic, it really has it all. We're not joking. Bringing a new meaning to 'Everything but the kitchen sink,' this bar even has that. Its DJ plays from a built-in Kitchen Disco. Spinning disks that span decades with a playlist that's sure to keep you on the dancefloor until the early hours. Blaring neons, skull disco balls and waltzer-style booths all add to the charm! The program of the night is as follows : 7:00pm-9pm : Singles mixing and mingling 9pm: The music goes up and it is time for dancing. Everyone arriving before 9pm receives a token for a complimentary drink ( you can choose between beer, prosecco or non alcoholic) Happy Hour till 9pm! Dress code is smart/ elegant/ Smart Casual (smart dark jeans are fine but ripped jeans, sportswear, trainers/sportshoes and hats are not allowed). For security reasons every guest must carry photographic ID with them (Driver’s License, European ID or Passport) independently of the age. If you wish to be welcomed and introduced to other people by the hostess please arrive before midnight How to find us: When you arrive please ask to be directed to Marianna's Events area/ Van. Any issue on the night feel free to contact Van: 07587546857 For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 How to connect with us: Like and follow our facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland) Join our facebook group: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514) Follow us on twitter: [@Mariannasevents](http://mariannasevents/)

**On Friday 24th April, we’re really excited to be heading back to the National Gallery Lates for our latest fast-paced, Photo Scavenger Hunt.** Yep every Friday, one of London’s most iconic galleries stays open late, inviting visitors to explore its treasures after hours. However, rather than simply enjoying the wonders of the art on display, to spice up our visit, we've organised one of our famous Gallery-wide team photo hunts 📸 If you've not been to one of these before, our photo hunts are a unique mix of a fast-paced **Scavenger Hunt** and **Where’s Wally?,** set in one of the world’s most famous galleries. We’ve curated a fresh selection of intriguing background characters, unusual objects and eye-catching snippets in the paintings across the gallery. And your team’s mission is to **locate as many of them as you can** within 90 minutes 🕵️ You’ll be armed with photo clues to help you find them, but they are designed to be easy to miss - so you’ll need to keep your wits about you and your eyes peeled. And that’s not all - there’ll also be extra creative challenges along the way, giving your team the chance to bag valuable bonus points. The team with the most points by the end of the night will be crowned the winners, with **some great prizes up for grabs 🏆** And once the hunt wraps up, we’ll head to the pub to grab a drink, crown the winners and hand out the prizes. It should be a great night but places are limited and so if you would like to join us for this, please RSVP as soon as possible! **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **WHERE/WHEN** Meet Point - St James Park, 69 Horse Guards Rd, London SW1A 2BJ (Exact location: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/tXJSNRjFkhvxaUW3A](https://maps.app.goo.gl/tXJSNRjFkhvxaUW3A)) Closest Tube stations: Charing Cross (10 min walk), St James Park (10 mins walk) Start Time - 6:30pm **\- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \- \-** **JOIN THE COMMUNITY** Set up in November 2021, the project was set up to help 20s and 30s meet, connect and hopefully build life-long friendships. To help make this happen, we also host all kinds of events from free social walks, games evenings, day trips, social events, activity nights to picnics. To learn more about our community or to follow us on social media, please follow one of the links below. **Website - [https://friendship-project.co.uk](https://friendship-project.co.uk/)** **Instagram - [https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship](https://www.instagram.com/great.friendship)**

## You may also book directly at our site here: https://www.writeandpint.com/events/collage-creative-writing-food-drinks-a-free-book-a-pub-quiz ... ## Hello there! Whoever you are, you're very welcome to join us for this fun, creative, and inspirational day of "Collage & Creative Writing". This Write & Pint workshop invites you into **an aesthetic realm, where verbal and pictorial expression collide!** Together, we’ll be: * Reading an excerpt from a piece of fiction * Reading a poem * Creating a character + character journey * Creating a collage (\*think felt tip pens, magazines, newspapers, scissors, A3 paper, moodboard-type thing) * Using our visual designs to expand our characters and character journey in writing thereafter! * A short pub quiz at the end of the day to round it all off! This is, of course, a **creative writing day**, for creative writers or anybody willing to give it a go, but it will also make use of **collage** to show you how visual media can help inform and inspire deeper connections to **charact and narrative arc.** ## What you'll need \*No experience necessary. \*No pressure to pitch or share your work in front of the group. Just bring yourself, a pen and pad (or laptop - depending how you'd like to write), and leave the rest to us. ## Schedule **11am** Arrive, order your tea or coffee, settle in, meet some friendly faces. **11am–1pm** Introductory poems, excerpts, and exercises, to help you develop your (we'll guide you through it) **1pm** Lunch break: a Finch’s pub brunch (\*included in the ticket price - as are the drinks). **2–3pm** Guided collage creation! **3pm–4pm** More writing, using your collage as inspiration. You’ll leave with new material to take home, edit, and keep. **4:00–5:00pm** 🎉 **The Write & Pint Pub Quiz** A fun, light-hearted general knowledge quiz covering culture, films, literature, history, and society, a playful way to end the day together. ... If you have any question at all, about this full day workshop or any of our other events, you're very welcome to text or WhatsApp me on +44 (0) 7534 981 636. Cheers! Sean (A Write & a Pint).

**We will be at The Mitre pub in central Greenwich.** **This meetup will start half an hour earlier than usual, as we need to finish half an hour earlier to give the pub the room back for another meeting.** This meetup is free and casual. We just sit around for a few hours and write together. Bring a laptop, or use a pen and paper or clay tablet and stylus if that's what works for you. The structure of the session is roughly: 2pm: chat 2:20–3:25: writing time 3:25: chat/coffee break 3:40–4:45 writing time 4:45: chat But our Saturdays are very casual, so feel free to drop in and out. **This is usually in the meeting room at the Mitre. If you arrive a bit later, you may need to ask the bar staff to show you through to the room.**

This is our Beehive Poetry Club meet-up. This is a space to both read poetry that we have felt inspired by and also a chance to have a go at writing something or having a go at a technique. Roughly each week will look like the following: 13.30 - Arrive for coffee + intoduction 13.40 - Poetry reading (anything you may have written or enjoyed reading) 14.20 - coffee break 14.30 Free write or writing activity 15.30 - finish

Weekly cycling club open to members of that club only. Membership enquiries to creativewellnesswon@outlook.com

TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED VIA THIS LINK ONLY: [TICKETS](https://fatso.ma/3pye) Inspired by the serene, flowing atmosphere, this shoot explores movement, light, and natural textures in a calm yet expressive creative environment. The concept blends dance, fashion, and storytelling - creating visuals that feel like stepping into a dreamlike oasis hidden inside the city. ✨ Flowing fabrics, wooden textures, and soft natural light come together to create an illusion-like world where models move freely, fabrics drift through the air, and photographers capture those fleeting in-between moments. This shoot invites dancers, yogis, and movement artists to guide models through simple, fluid motions and poses, helping everyone explore natural body movement, fabric flow, and expressive energy. Through gentle movement, breath, and rhythm, participants will discover new ways to pose and create organic, graceful imagery that captures motion in a soft and dreamlike way. ✨ **THEME** **“Dreamy Oasis – The Art of Movement”**   This concept focuses on grace, motion, and softness. Think: * Flowing fabrics drifting through the air * Gentle turns, spins, and slow movements * Organic textures and warm tones * Dreamlike imagery where stillness meets motion The aim is to capture moments that feel spontaneous and alive — movement frozen beautifully through photography. **THE VENUE** 📍 London Docklands (exact location shared with participants) This 1625 sq ft creative studio offers a unique blend of industrial architecture and natural artistic warmth. The space features: * Three large windows with direct sunlight * Wooden flooring and natural textures * High ceilings and a spacious upper mezzanine * Soft diffused skylight creating dreamy light conditions * Unique wooden sculptures and organic decor The studio’s wooden art pieces and natural props create an inspiring environment that feels both earthy and surreal — perfectly suited for the Dreamy Oasis concept.  **WHAT TO EXPECT** ✨ 4-Hour Collaborative Photoshoot A relaxed but creatively energising session focused on movement, storytelling, and capturing the moment. During the shoot we will explore: • Movement-based posing • Flowing fabrics and garments in motion • Slow dance elements and expressive gestures • Soft natural light photography • Organic compositions using the studio’s wooden props Dancers may also guide models through simple flowing movements, helping everyone discover new ways of expressing emotion and motion in front of the camera. The goal is to create editorial, artistic, and dreamy visuals while maintaining a supportive collaborative atmosphere. **STYLE & VISUAL DIRECTION** The overall palette should feel soft, warm, and ethereal. Key aesthetic elements: ✨ Flowing fabrics and natural silhouettes ✨ Linen, chiffon, silk, soft cotton textures ✨ Barefoot or minimal styling ✨ Earth tones and warm neutrals ✨ Soft creams, sand, beige, ivory Contrast colours are welcome to add visual interest: * Terracotta * Rust * Soft sage * Muted gold * Dusty rose * The aim is to create a soft visual world with occasional striking accents. * **DRESS CODE – MODELS** Models should arrive prepared with 1–3 looks that fit the theme. Suggested wardrobe: • Flowing dresses or skirts • Light linen outfits • Soft draped fabrics • Minimalist fashion pieces • Elegant editorial looks Designers joining the shoot may also provide additional garments for styling throughout the session. **WHO THIS IS FOR** ✔ Photographers & Content Creators ✔ Models (all experience levels welcome) ✔ Dancers & Movement Artists ✔ Designers & Stylists ✔ Creatives who enjoy collaborative artistic environments This session is about creating together, experimenting, and building beautiful portfolio work. **COLLABORATION GUIDELINES** This is a collaborative photoshoot. To keep the experience fair and supportive for everyone: • Models should receive photos without additional charges • Images must be shared without watermarks or logos • All participants should credit fellow creatives when posting • Collaboration and respectful communication are encouraged throughout **JOIN THE SHOOT** Once you secure your ticket, please email: 📧 welove.socialise@gmail.com Include: * Your WhatsApp number * Your Instagram handle You’ll be added to the event WhatsApp group at least 2 weeks before the shoot, where all final details will be shared. 📍 Exact location revealed to confirmed participants only 📸 Follow on Instagram: @welove_shoots Step into a world of soft light, flowing movement, and dreamlike visuals. Let’s create something beautiful together. ✨

This year's Eurovision Song Contest is being held in Vienna, Austria, and the finals are scheduled for 16 May 2026. The [Scandinavian Club of Columbus](https://www.scandiclub.com/) will be co-hosting a viewing party for the final event in conjunction with Germania and the [Columbus Maennerchor](https://www.maennerchor.com/). The delayed televised viewing will take place at the Germania. The program will start around 2:00 p.m. and the singing will start around 3:00 p.m. There will be a cash bar, and those in attendance can bring food or snacks for themselves and or to share with the groups. **Suggested donation: $10/person** to help cover the cost of the venue.

It feels like we just saw each other 🤷. Join members of the local design and UX community for our monthly breakfast. For May we’re stopping in for Rooh’s popup breakfast/cafe concept. You know someone is getting the lobster yuzu croissant, and that’s not even the prettiest thing on the menu!.

Join the CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group for a dynamic afternoon of B2B networking! This event is perfect for professionals looking to expand their business connections, share insights, and foster collaboration within the community. Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this event offers a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, build relationships, and grow your network in a supportive environment. Connect with like-minded individuals, explore potential partnerships, and discover new opportunities for professional growth. Don't miss out on this chance to enhance your business network and take your career to the next level with CONNECTED Westerville Mastermind Group! We meet the 4th Monday of every month from 11am-1pm. Welcome and general networking from 11am - 11:30am with core meeting 11;30 - 12:30 and a final round of networking from 12:30 - 1pm.

Details Let's join together for a fiesta! (Invite friends - we have lots of room!) Taco Bar Margarita and Beer tasting Complementary chips and salsa Margs/cocktails at the bar for purchase Freshly prepared snacks in the deli for purchase Festive Band/Music Margaritas/Mexican Beer Tasting + Taco Bar: $15.00 per person (covers 4 Margarita or beer samples and one pass thru the Taco Bar) Where: #MarketDistrict (Grandview Yard) location. The party room (our private space) will be decorated with both patios open! Adjoining upstairs area also open for over flow and mingling. After Party: Sometimes, we head to a venue to hear live music afterwards. LDNL is at Black Swan in Hilliard tonight! Wear your bright colors and cheerful !Salud!

**Caller: Richard Ades** **Band: The McKenzies** **Clinton Heights Lutheran Church** **15 Clinton Heights Ave, Columbus, OH 43202** 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.