Creative Arts

**Welcome to our June UX Beers in Brussels!** This time, we will host our event on Tuesday the 9th of June at [DUX](https://www.dux.agency) in Brussels. [Ariad](https://www.ariadgroup.com/) and [Creative Skills](https://www.creativeskills.be/) sponsor our events. 📺 Follow the event online? We stream live via [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBqyTDAyQBw) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# UX TALKS **Talks:** **Speaker 1: Remy Florean** **The Stakes of UX Research: Consequences, impact, politics...** UX research is never “just” about testing interfaces, it shapes decisions, influences stakeholders, and can have very real business and human consequences. In this talk, Remy Florean explores how the way we communicate research findings must adapt to different audiences. He will also dive into the political dimension of UX research, where insights can become powerful tools in broader organizational dynamics. **Speaker panel 2: Sacha Kocovski, David Morgan, Joannes Vermeulen & Kathleen Van den Keybus** **Surviving the evolution of the UX industry.** *Moderated by Karol Dulat* The UX industry is changing fast. AI, shifting business priorities, and evolving roles are reshaping design and research in real time. Join a conversation with Belgian UX and Research leaders on how UX professionals can adapt, survive, and grow in this new era. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# SCHEDULE 18:00 - Doors open. Drinks & snacks 19.00 - 19.15 - Introduction to UX Belgium Meetup, announcements 19.15 - 19:50 - Talk #1 19:50 -20:10 - BREAK 20:10 - 21:00 - Talk #2 20:45 - 21:30 - Socialize \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# SLACK CHANNEL We have our own UX Belgium slack channel. [Come join us and say hi!](https://join.slack.com/t/ux-belgium/shared_invite/zt-1bjpnuiog-T4Di4flXYPWgbT9KrZ53CA) \*\*\* \#\#\# YOUTUBE CHANNEL All our livestreams and talks are recorded and available on our [UX Belgium youtube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCno7V18T-EglYXprgrUZQ7A). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \#\#\# ABOUT UX BELGIUM UX Belgium is a growing community of User Experience (UX) professionals in and around Belgium. Look for these types of events: UX Beers Periodically, we gather at a different company, agency or venue to drink beers, network and listen to speakers on various themes in the world of UX and digital design. UX Antwerp: Each last Tuesday of the month UX Brussels: Each second Tuesday of the month, 4x per year UX Hasselt: 4x per year UX Workshops Now and then we organize events to dive deeper into specific skills and techniques in UX. These are smaller, hands-on workshops designed to boost your UX toolbox. \*\*\* The UX Belgium Meetup Team

**Um was geht es dieses mal?** **Barrierefreiheit automatisiert testen - Anna Maier (codecentric)** "Barrierefreiheit – ein Produkt für alle nutzbar machen - ist ein komplexes Thema. Bei der Entwicklung barrierefreier Software müssen viele Anforderungen berücksichtigt werden. Ein großes Problem ist, dass das Testen ein weitgehend ein manueller Prozess ist. Das kollidiert mit den schnellen Veröffentlichungszyklen moderner Software. Wie können wir unser Tempo beibehalten und gleichzeitig sicherstellen, dass das Produkt zugänglich bleibt? In diesem Vortrag gebe ich euch das Handwerkszeug, um euch in Hinblick auf Barrierefreiheit besser abzusichern. Dabei lernen wir zunächst automatische Tools und ihre Möglichkeiten und Grenzen kennen. Danach schauen wir auf Strategien zum Schreiben eigener Tests mit gängigen Testframeworks. Abschließend schauen wir uns an, wie KI uns in dieser Hinsicht unterstützen kann" **Hybrides Setup!** Wir freuen uns, euch bei uns in den Räumen der codecentric AG in Dortmund willkommen zu heißen. Vor Ort versorgen wir euch mit Snacks und Getränken und freuen uns gleichzeitig über interessante Diskussionen und einen guten Austausch. Für alle, die es nicht zu uns ins Office schaffen, werden wir das Meetup Hybrid durchführen. Der Stream beginnt ca. 10 Minuten später, damit wir vor Ort ausreichend Möglichkeit für persönliches Kennenlernen haben. Den Live-Stream findet ihr auf dem [YouTube-Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@codecentricAG) der codecentric AG. **Wichtig - Absage bitte rechtzeitig:** Wir bestellen das Essen bereits 3 Tage vor dem Meetup. Falls ihr doch verhindert sein solltet, bitten wir euch um eine rechtzeitige Absage. Das ist wichtig, damit wir nicht unnötig Essen verschwenden müssen. Vielen Dank für euer Verständnis! **Anreise:** Per Zug: Vom Dortmunder HBF sind es ca. 10 Minuten zu Fuß. Mit dem Auto: Rund um das Office gibt es einige Parkflächen, dazu befinden sich in dem Parkhaus der Thier-Galerie weitere Parkplätze.

**Location:** Oudeschans 21 **Time:** Every Tuesday 19:00–21:00 **Price:** €395 [Buy your ticket here](https://amsterdamhouseofartsandcrafts.com/eng/courses/sewing) Looking for a creative and hands-on course in Amsterdam? Join our Sewing Course with Rasa Gaspers and learn how to design, cut, and sew your own clothing and accessories. With a flexible start, you can join at any time and develop your skills at your own pace in a relaxed studio environment. Guided by an experienced tailor, you’ll learn the basics of sewing step by step, from measuring and cutting to working with patterns and finishing techniques. As you progress, you’ll move from simple projects to creating your own garments, always with personal guidance. This course is beginner-friendly but also suitable for more experienced makers who want to deepen their skills and develop their own style. what you'll get: * Hands-on guidance from an experienced sewing instructor * Use of sewing machines and tools * Basic fabric for your first projects (pencil case / tote bag) * Your own handmade items, including accessories and a self-designed garment Good to know: * You can join the course at any time (rolling start) * Bring your own fabric or project ideas as you progress * Small group setting (4–8 participants) * Relaxed, creative studio environment To book this course, go to our [website.](https://amsterdamhouseofartsandcrafts.com/eng/courses/sewing)

**3D Workshop** * **Ontwerpen met Fusion360** * **Scannen in 3D** * **Het gebruik van 3D printers** **Je bent nu welkom in de nieuwe locatie NewTechPark** Je kunt ook online aan deze fysieke bijeenkomst deelnemen. De bijeenkomst is dan op de locatie te volgen. Als je [hier](w.j.put@hccnet.nl) vooraf een mailtje stuurt kun je dinsdagavond tussen 19.00 en 20.00 uur inloggen met Jitsi voor vragen, of ter kennismaking met hcc!3D. Online neem je deel aan de bijeenkomst met [https://wij.hcc.nl/3D](https://wij.hcc.nl/3D) [(Alleen toegang als je zichtbaar bent met voor- en achternaam. )](https://wij.hcc.nl/3d)

*(🇬🇧 English below)* Voordat een bordspel of kaartspel kan worden uitgegeven, moet er veel aan het spel getest worden om zeker te zijn dat het leuk is, duidelijk is en altijd goed werkt. Daarom komen we **elke 2 weken** met spelauteurs uit de regio samen om prototypes van spellen te testen en ze zo beter te maken en misschien ooit wel gepubliceerd te krijgen. Om 8 uur verzamelen we bij [StartUp Nijmegen](https://startupnijmegen.nl/) voor een speltestavond. Afhankelijk van het aantal aanwezigen en prototypes dat er wordt meegenomen (neem zelf ook iets mee als je wilt) vormen we een aantal groepen. Bij kleinere spellen kun je in de loop van de avond van groep wisselen, bij grotere spellen moet je dat even overleggen. **Ook als je zelf** **geen spellen maakt** of een spel hebt dat je wilt testen, ben je natuurlijk van harte welkom. Het is voor ontwerpers heel fijn om de mening van zo veel mogelijk andere mensen te krijgen. En heel eerlijk: het testen van nieuwe spellen is ook gewoon heel leuk! We gaan door tot een uur of 11, maar voel je vrij al eerder naar huis te gaan. Er is **gratis koffie** **en thee** bij StartUp Nijmegen. Voor fris, bier of wijn wordt een kleine bijdrage gevraagd. StartUp Nijmegen ligt tegenover het station. De auto kun je parkeren in de naastgelegen Keizer Karelparkeergarage (50 cent per uur). Er is hier ook een afgesloten fietsenstalling. De testavonden in Nijmegen zijn elke **2e dinsdag** en elke **4e woensdag** van de maand. Zet die dus vast in je agenda (tip: zet met [deze iCal link](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/c_d2267afce516f9296468270649b3f44da6c06cbc0bc3de05f049992373db5f4f%40group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics) ze automatisch in je agenda)! Spellenmaakgilde Nijmegen maakt onderdeel van het [Nederlandse Spellenmaakgilde](https://spellenmaakgilde.nl/) en is onderdeel van het SAZ. Je vindt ons daarnaast ook in het #Nijmegen kanaal op de [Discord-server van het Spellenmaakgilde](https://discord.gg/6JzD6Sz2m5). 🇬🇧 **For English-speaking guests:** Before a board game or card game can be published, it must undergo extensive testing to ensure that it is enjoyable, clear, and always functions properly. Therefore, **every 2 weeks**, we gather with game authors from the region to test prototypes of games, thereby improving them and, perhaps, getting them published someday. At 8 PM, we gather at [StartUp Nijmegen](https://startupnijmegen.nl/) for a game testing evening. Depending on the number of attendees and prototypes brought (feel free to bring something yourself), we form several groups. For smaller games, you can switch groups throughout the evening, but for larger games, you should discuss this. **Even if you** **do not design games** or have a game you want to test, you are, of course, very welcome. It is very beneficial for designers to receive feedback from as many people as possible. And to be honest: testing new games is just a lot of fun! We continue until about 11 PM, but feel free to go home earlier if you wish. There is **free coffee** **and tea** at StartUp Nijmegen. StartUp Nijmegen is located opposite the station. You can park your car in the adjacent Keizer Karel parking garage (50 cents per hour). There is also a secure bicycle parking facility here. The testing evenings in Nijmegen are every **2nd Tuesday** and **4th Wednesday** of the month. So be sure to mark those in your calendar (tip: automatically add them to your calendar with [this iCal link](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/c_d2267afce516f9296468270649b3f44da6c06cbc0bc3de05f049992373db5f4f@group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics))! The Spellenmaakgilde Nijmegen is part of the [Dutch Game Designers Guild](https://spellenmaakgilde.nl/) and is also a part of SAZ. You can also find us in the #Nijmegen channel on the [Discord server of the Game Designers Guild](https://discord.gg/6JzD6Sz2m5). And don't worry if you don't speak Dutch! We regularly have non-Dutch speaking guests, and everyone is welcome to join and have fun with us.

*(🇬🇧 English below)* Voordat een bordspel of kaartspel kan worden uitgegeven, moet er veel aan het spel getest worden om zeker te zijn dat het leuk is, duidelijk is en altijd goed werkt. Daarom komen we **elke 2 weken** met spelauteurs uit de regio samen om prototypes van spellen te testen en ze zo beter te maken en misschien ooit wel gepubliceerd te krijgen. Om 8 uur verzamelen we bij [StartUp Nijmegen](https://startupnijmegen.nl/) voor een speltestavond. Afhankelijk van het aantal aanwezigen en prototypes dat er wordt meegenomen (neem zelf ook iets mee als je wilt) vormen we een aantal groepen. Bij kleinere spellen kun je in de loop van de avond van groep wisselen, bij grotere spellen moet je dat even overleggen. **Ook als je zelf** **geen spellen maakt** of een spel hebt dat je wilt testen, ben je natuurlijk van harte welkom. Het is voor ontwerpers heel fijn om de mening van zo veel mogelijk andere mensen te krijgen. En heel eerlijk: het testen van nieuwe spellen is ook gewoon heel leuk! We gaan door tot een uur of 11, maar voel je vrij al eerder naar huis te gaan. Er is **gratis koffie** **en thee** bij StartUp Nijmegen. Voor fris, bier of wijn wordt een kleine bijdrage gevraagd. StartUp Nijmegen ligt tegenover het station. De auto kun je parkeren in de naastgelegen Keizer Karelparkeergarage (50 cent per uur). Er is hier ook een afgesloten fietsenstalling. De testavonden in Nijmegen zijn elke **2e dinsdag** en elke **4e woensdag** van de maand. Zet die dus vast in je agenda (tip: zet met [deze iCal link](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/c_d2267afce516f9296468270649b3f44da6c06cbc0bc3de05f049992373db5f4f%40group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics) ze automatisch in je agenda)! Spellenmaakgilde Nijmegen maakt onderdeel van het [Nederlandse Spellenmaakgilde](https://spellenmaakgilde.nl/) en is onderdeel van het SAZ. Je vindt ons daarnaast ook in het #Nijmegen kanaal op de [Discord-server van het Spellenmaakgilde](https://discord.gg/6JzD6Sz2m5). 🇬🇧 **For English-speaking guests:** Before a board game or card game can be published, it must undergo extensive testing to ensure that it is enjoyable, clear, and always functions properly. Therefore, **every 2 weeks**, we gather with game authors from the region to test prototypes of games, thereby improving them and, perhaps, getting them published someday. At 8 PM, we gather at [StartUp Nijmegen](https://startupnijmegen.nl/) for a game testing evening. Depending on the number of attendees and prototypes brought (feel free to bring something yourself), we form several groups. For smaller games, you can switch groups throughout the evening, but for larger games, you should discuss this. **Even if you** **do not design games** or have a game you want to test, you are, of course, very welcome. It is very beneficial for designers to receive feedback from as many people as possible. And to be honest: testing new games is just a lot of fun! We continue until about 11 PM, but feel free to go home earlier if you wish. There is **free coffee** **and tea** at StartUp Nijmegen. You can park your car in the adjacent Keizer Karel parking garage (50 cents per hour). There is also a secure bicycle parking facility here. The testing evenings in Nijmegen are every **2nd Tuesday** and **4th Wednesday** of the month. So be sure to mark those in your calendar (tip: automatically add them to your calendar with [this iCal link](https://calendar.google.com/calendar/ical/c_d2267afce516f9296468270649b3f44da6c06cbc0bc3de05f049992373db5f4f@group.calendar.google.com/public/basic.ics))! The Spellenmaakgilde Nijmegen is part of the [Dutch Game Designers Guild](https://spellenmaakgilde.nl/) and is also a part of SAZ. You can also find us in the #Nijmegen channel on the [Discord server of the Game Designers Guild](https://discord.gg/6JzD6Sz2m5). And don't worry if you don't speak Dutch! We regularly have non-Dutch speaking guests, and everyone is welcome to join and have fun with us.

Join us for an evening of good vibes! Whether you’re a local or an expat, Mingle Mania is the perfect place to socialize and make friends or even to practice languages. 🤝🤼‍♂️💬🙋‍♂️🫂 👉 Join [https://chat.whatsapp.com/GopSuzuFKRBKeYVKQrX4pE](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GopSuzuFKRBKeYVKQrX4pE) The group has many regular members, we intend to do various type of events, the goal is to build a strong community for all sorts of activities. If you have an event idea that you would like to see happen, let us know. We generally have about 20 participants, the age is between 20 and 60 averaging somewhere around 30, language exchange is not strictly enforced, culture exchange happens naturally. **mingle** (verb, intransitive): to move among people and talk to them, especially at a social event. 📍 **What We Are:** * A diverse group of locals and expats * ...going out at least every Tuesday 😊 🆓 **Event Details:** * It is free to join and operated on a voluntary basis! * Please honor the bar by ordering at least one drink.

## 🎨**Activity for EXPATS & English Speakers** ☕ Are you an art enthusiast living in or around **Amersfoort, Hilversum, Utrecht, Nieuwegein, IJsseltein, De Bilt and the rest of cities of the Utrecht's province** who love painting or drawing? Maybe you've felt the joy of creating but struggled to find others who share your passion and speak **ENGLISH**? **You're not alone! 😉** ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## 🖌️**About this event** You will meet other Art Lovers like you to Draw, Paint and have some drinks Together ! Our events are not just about sketching or creating art—they’re about building connections. Every two weeks, we meet at a café to have a relaxing time drawing a painting. Please keep on mind that **ENGLISH i**s the official language we will use to integrate everyone in our conversations. ⭕⭕⭕➡️ **IMPORTANT ⬅️** ⭕⭕⭕⭕ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**Book formally your Seat 🪑via [WHATSAPP](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** **If you want to confirm officially your attendance and separate your seat🪑. Book your seat in meet-up, and contact us via [WHATSAPP HERE](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f) to receive more information on the address of our activities.** **Thanks a lot for your understanding!** 💐🥰 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 👩🏻‍🎨**How Does It Work?** This event is simple, this initiative takes 2 Hours. Most of the participants use pencils, water pencils or watercolours. Main aim is to socialize while we draw. There will be plenty of time to talk and get to know each other. We have to mention that this event is suitable for all levels. Many have started to draw in our event actually. Also it is very important that you **[JOIN US AT OUR WHATSAPP COMMUNITY](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f),** to stay up to date on our upcoming events and participate in our Drawing and Painting Contests! **👉: [https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f](https://bit.ly/3BXXE0f)** 🍀 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### ☕**Where?** We will meet in different cafes mainly in the *center of Amersfoort ( and some occasions in other cities around)*. I will inform you of the exact place some days in advance this event. The place will depend on the number of attendees. ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### **🎟️ What is included?** 🟢 **2 HOURS TO HAVE FUN!** 🟢 **15 mins warming-up creative activity and paper material**🖌️🎨 🟢 New friendships and **conversations in ENGLISH** in a relaxed atmosphere 🟢 **Souvenir picture** with you and the rest of Art Lovers 📷 🟢 Exclusive **access to our Art Lovers Community** on which you will receive: ***\~\~\~ Drawing challenges,*** ***\~\~\~ Training content,*** ***\~\~\~ FREE Entries only to members*** ***\~\~\~ Drawing Competitions*** 🟢 Time to **create alongside fellow artists and amateurs** 🟢 The freedom to **work at your own pace** 💃🕺🎈 ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ### 🖼️**Art Materials?** Bring your own practical art materials to be adaptable to sketch on a coffee table. Like your sketchbook, pencils, watercolor, markets, pencils, your Tablet..etc ✨✨✨✨✨✨✨ ## **See you to Paint, Draw, and drink together!🌟☕🍷🍪🍰**

Get your ticket here: [https://ccu.stager.co/shop/default/events/111659793?utm_campaign=build-a-bird&utm_source=meetup](https://ccu.stager.co/shop/default/events/111659793?utm_campaign=build-a-bird&utm_source=meetup) Build your own bird detector! Learn step by step to build a fully customised animal sounds monitoring device, trained on a local dataset. This workshop is for bird nerds, sound wizards, and for those who are into DYI and low-tech solutions. New to all this? That’s great: coding experience is useful, but not required. The workshop will be based on the bird detector developed by Matteo Marangoni for the project Chorusing Symbionts. Matteo Holyoke Marangoni combines music with visual art, theatre, and new technologies. He develops robotic instruments and artificial creatures to compose spaces in which sound is experienced with the whole body and all the senses. His work draws inspiration from animal communication, bioacoustics, and ecoacoustics, exploring how sound can mediate relationships between humans, machines, and other life forms, and proposing embodied and ecological notions of intelligence, consciousness and subjecthood. 🎫 Regular €40/Student €20 - [get your ticket here](https://ccu.stager.co/shop/default/events/111659793?utm_campaign=build-a-bird&utm_source=meetup)

This hike is one you don’t want to miss! It offers a lot of variety on a relatively short distance. From train station Rhenen, we will cross the river and walk along it for a while, until we cross it again by ferry, taking us to the beautiful wetlands of the ‘Blauwe Kamer’, where we might encounter all kinds of wildlife. After a break, we will continue to climb the Grebbeberg, a 52 meter peak in the hilly forest, towering above the river. We will then return to Rhenen, with the option of visiting this pittoresque old town. **Where to meet**: we will meet at **10.30am** at train station Rhenen. This train station can be reached by Sprinter train from Utrecht Centraal. **This hike is fully booked.** [You may register for a place on the waitlist on my website.](https://rewildyourself.nu/dutch-nature-hikes/)

Come play improv theatre in English and kick off your Friday evening with laughter, creativity and new people. This [drop-in workshop](https://www.improvutrecht.nl/drop-in-workshops/) is open to everyone, whether you are trying improv for the very first time or you have played before and want to stay sharp. You do not need acting experience and you do not need perfect English. Many people join us for the first time each week, alongside regular players who keep coming back. The atmosphere is open, playful and supportive, with a real focus on having fun together. During the session you can expect: * Meeting internationals and Dutch players who enjoy playing in English * Fun and accessible improv games inspired by shows like Whose Line Is It Anyway and De Lama’s * Clear introductions to improv principles like listening, accepting ideas and playing together * Plenty of laughter and a few moments where you surprise yourself * A relaxed, social vibe rather than anything competitive or performative We play from 20:00 to 22:00. Doors open between 19:50 and 20:00 and you enter together via the side entrance on Troelstralaan. After the workshop, many people head to O’Leary’s nearby for a drink and a chat. Sign up by adding your name via [https://bit.ly/iudropin](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fbit.ly%2Fiudropin%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExYzVUWUpNcUx3Qmxyc0tCNnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5K0FVPivgkRn67BEoDofHkr7Es12_1bq4hDCggWDXNdpNhLZnzLNMNtrNdqw_aem_j1YiiuZaWNnyDZ5jbnCCBQ&h=AT2fpKsMMORdusQhpZ9iv0ed8772wQ5kPJcHxIGz5i8iQEJK0FVlSpqVqEh62oBzSisT7moNRPBSDvWIuZEL9WgLIXRbLyqXfXj7sE7CYyKbKxqnakD0W31HOEXSgK_5tuPYJFStscaUvrh-0pc&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT3WQkDUYF4F66VuKR4XhsJ2afRvpjsAkK93Octb-hRh_JIzYk-7ePG7XSFfHFYxd9GLxqQgCwnPjN2yiYBNVADfb7VXyjFO1sHIArS4Jo43x4NQHr-b2RMtZUH_TIvYncgegRNFx3P2HDQbu5bCg5dzFhmaWlgHFa4). If you can no longer attend, please remember to remove yourself so someone else can join. The workshop works on a Pay What You Thought It Was Worth basis. Suggested donation is €10 to €20, but you are always welcome regardless of what you can pay. Contributions help cover the room and the professional trainer giving up their Friday evening. **About the teacher this week** This session is taught by [Steven Morgan](https://stevenmorgan.wales). Steven is a British comedian, improviser and teacher with a long international track record both on stage and in the classroom. He was the Head of Teaching at easylaughs in Amsterdam and was cast member of Impro Amsterdam for two years running. He previously organised the Bris Funny Fest in Australia, producing over one hundred comedy shows, and has performed stand up comedy in numerous countries and festivals including the Utrecht International Comedy Festival. Steven has also run corporate workshops for organisations such as Nike, Zoom and the Red Cross, and was one half of the improv duo Tru2U with Rogier Bak. His teaching style is playful, clear and confidence building, with a strong focus on connection, generosity on stage and enjoying the moment rather than trying to be funny. Whether you come to learn, to meet people, or just to have a joyful Friday evening, you are very welcome.

Join us on **10 June** for an inspiring evening hosted by **Frontend Festival**. Where curious minds and creative builders come together to celebrate the art of the web. Expect a relaxed, high-energy meetup filled with fresh ideas, short talks, and meaningful conversations around modern frontend development, design, performance, accessibility, and the future of the web. Whether you’re a developer, designer, or simply passionate about crafting great digital experiences, this is the perfect place to connect, learn, and get inspired. Good vibes, great people, and plenty of room to share stories Don’t miss it! For tickets go to the website: [Frontend festival](https://frontendfestival.nl/) You cannot purchase them via this meet-up page.

We’re heading out for a beautiful 20 km loop hike from Afferden through the gorgeous Nationaal Park De Maasduinen. This route takes us through a striking Limburg landscape of forest, sandy paths, open heathland, river dunes, and wide views. Along the way, we pass the ruins of Kasteel Bleijenbeek and climb an uitkijktoren for a panoramic view over the Maasduinen landscape. One of the special features of this hike is that we cross the Maas river twice by small ferry. These crossings give the route an extra sense of adventure and connect the Maasduinen landscape with the village side of the river. After one of the crossings, we continue to the village of Vierlingsbeek, where we’ll take our longer break for a drink. After the break, we make our way back toward Afferden, completing a varied loop through forest, heathland, castle history, river scenery, ferry crossings, and quiet Limburg countryside. A hike with forest energy, open heathland, castle ruins, a lookout tower, two Maas river crossings, and a relaxed village drink stop. **📍When and where to meet?** We’ll meet at 11h15 at Busstop "Afferden, Veer naar Sambeek" https://maps.app.goo.gl/kcg4hBvRsHoUjBSa6 ⏰ **We start walking a few minutes after meeting up** We don’t wait for latecomers, as we have a long route ahead and want to enjoy the full day properly. **🚗 Coming by car?** Please check your parking options beforehand so you arrive on time. **⏸️ Planned Breaks** After **4 km:** break at watchtower (5 min) After **7 km:** Having a lunchbreak at ruins of Castle Bleijenbeek (25 min) After **13 km:** Ferry over the Maas After **14 km:** Drinks at bar in Vierlingsbeek (50 min) After **20 km:** Ferry back over the Maas (bring small change to pay the ferry) I still need to confirm or make a reservation at the bar. **💸 Payment** Please pay as soon as you sign up: To keep things fair for everyone, if we don’t receive your payment within 48 hours, we will need to remove you from the participant list. If there’s a waiting list, this will happen sooner (in less than 48 hours). If that happens, no worries — you’re always welcome to sign up again if there’s space. 🌟 Early Bird Deal! Join now for just €4 — available for 3 days (72h). After that, the price will be €5. Please pay here: [https://tikkie.me/pay/hn1r44v9kl99o9agck71](https://tikkie.me/pay/hn1r44v9kl99o9agck71) **👟 Good to know** * Refund policy: Cancellations are fully refundable up to 1 week before the event (This is Friday 5 June at 23h59). After this period, the fee becomes non-refundable. * Hike difficulty: Our hikes are moderately challenging. Please only join if you’re confident you can keep up with the group’s pace (5 km/ h)— it’s more fun for everyone when we can walk together without long waits. * If the pace is too challenging: We may kindly suggest you continue at your own pace. We’ll give you clear directions to the nearest bus or train so you can return comfortably. * At your own risk: You participate at your own risk, so please make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage for outdoor activities. * Payment note: With Tikkie we only see initials (e.g., J. Doe instead of John Doe). Please include your Meetup name in the payment note so we can match it easily. * Friends joining: If you bring a friend, make sure they also register and pay. * What to bring: Snacks and enough water * Stay connected: Join our WhatsApp group to be the first to hear about future hikes — ask for the QR code during the hike. * T-shirts: Fairwear-certified organic cotton, eco-friendly inks — €25. Sustainable, odor-resistant, and perfect for hiking. Let us know your size and we’ll bring one for you.

Let’s meet again to share the joy of fountain pens with each other! Bring your spare inks to swap samples, if you enjoy that sort of thing. Journaling and art is welcome as well. Please Note! We are not affiliated with this location, we will be sharing the space with other visitors and we don’t have a reservation, so let’s be mindful!

Join us for a Friday evening of creative practice\* and cozy conversation! Please visit the group page for details on what to expect: https://www.meetup.com/the-evening-art-society/?eventOrigin=your_groups Guests are welcome, though we request that you please let us know how many to account for. We don't want to run out of snacks! Kids are also welcome, with the understanding that this is a shared space intended to be comfortable for all and conducive to creative work. Reach out if you have any questions. We can't wait to see you! \*Because we ultimately just want to provide a safe, warm space for our community to enjoy on a weekly basis, our definition of this is pretty broad. Want to curl up with a good book? Working on the next great American novel? Looking for a café-like hum as the backing track to doing your taxes? You're also welcome here!

Finally - after a six month break the Music Cave is back in operation. Please join June 20. Friendly get-togethers to play music, sing, drum, and learn. Musicians, singers, professionals, amateurs, beginners, all musical levels and all kinds of instruments welcome. We have informal/casual gatherings where you can enjoy playing music and singing with other members, can meet friendly people, and get inspired by others. Every meeting is adifferent combination! All musical levels, including beginners, are welcome, so long as you enjoy it! Bring extra instruments if you have them. Please come with 2 or 3 songs in mind that you would like to learn or play. Do not use the front door. Enter through the gate to the left rear of the house and the basement.

Enjoy a vibrant and engaging dance experience that blends global rhythms and diverse styles. This class combines elements of Bollywood, Latin, and other dance forms into a smooth, easy-to-follow flow designed to get you moving and grooving at a comfortable pace. Perfect for all levels, this class focuses on fun, relaxation, and connection with the music while giving you a gentle workout. Join us for a refreshing and enjoyable dance session! (Please wear socks). Friday, April 10th from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm. Held at the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum – Virginia, 14020 Thunderbolt Place, Suite 200, Chantilly, VA. **FREE EVENT - Registration Required at [https://shorturl.at/KJoXv](https://shorturl.at/KJoXv)** *Support the Brahma Kumaris Meditation Museum with your tax-deductible* *contribution.* **[CONTRIBUTE](https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html "https://www.meditationmuseum.org/contribute.html")**

This class will provide instruction into various concepts of **Jiu-Jitsu** as a form of **martial art**. Participants will have the opportunity to **study**, **practice**, and **experiment** with **submission holds** and **strategic fighting controls** that are the hallmark of the now famous methodology of Professional MMA athletes and professional combatives users. This **gi class** is held every **Tuesday** and **Thursday** and includes **one hour of instruction** and **30 minutes** (sometimes longer, TBD) of **open training**. Gis are available if you need one. Drop-in fee for non-members is **$20** which which can be paid on-site. Note that we are in **Suite #130**.

## 1 Million Cups Loudoun – Business Presentation ### Featuring Mary Hartshorn, Founder of Craft Alchemy **Wednesday\, June 10 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us as we welcome **Mary Hartshorn**, founder of **Craft Alchemy**, to the 1 Million Cups Loudoun stage. *** ## About the Presenter Mary Hartshorn is an Army Veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Craft Alchemy. With a background in communications and logistics and an MBA earned in 2016, Mary spent years developing expertise in e-commerce, digital products, automation systems, Shopify, Etsy, and customer-focused product development while raising her family and navigating military life. In 2024, a personal moment of crisis inspired Mary to create a tool that could help others facing similar challenges. What began as a resource for veterans quickly evolved into a broader solution designed to support individuals and families navigating autism, mental health challenges, caregiving responsibilities, medical conditions, and other situations where communication can become difficult during times of stress. *** ## About the Business Craft Alchemy has developed the **Anchor Tag Support System**, a personalized QR-based support hub that helps individuals quickly access calming tools, emergency contacts, support resources, and personalized information when they need it most. Designed to bridge the gap between physical and digital support, Anchor Tags provide a practical, accessible tool for Veterans, First Responders, autism families, caregivers, mental health advocates, schools, healthcare providers, and organizations focused on community well-being. Rather than creating another app, Craft Alchemy offers a real-world solution that can be carried, accessed quickly, and utilized during moments when support and communication matter most. *** ## Who Mary Is Looking to Hear From Mary would especially value feedback and connections from: * Veteran support organizations * First responder support groups * Mental health professionals and advocates * Autism and disability support organizations * School administrators and special education professionals * Healthcare and caregiving professionals * Nonprofit leaders * Community outreach specialists * Government contracting and partnership advisors * Local leaders focused on community impact initiatives *** ## Current Business Focus & Challenge Craft Alchemy is currently in its early growth and partnership stage. Mary's primary focus is building awareness, establishing strategic partnerships, and expanding opportunities within organizations and community-based networks. She is seeking feedback around: * Building strategic partnerships * Scaling awareness organically * Expanding into schools, nonprofits, and community organizations * Navigating government and organizational opportunities * Growing a mission-driven business without relying heavily on paid advertising She would also appreciate introductions to individuals and organizations connected to veterans, first responders, mental health advocacy, autism support, caregiving, education, and community health initiatives. *** ## Why Attend? * Learn about an innovative solution designed to support people during moments of stress and crisis * Provide valuable feedback to a mission-driven entrepreneur * Connect with community leaders, advocates, and professionals across multiple industries * Be part of a meaningful conversation around accessibility, support, and community impact *** ## About 1 Million Cups 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **June 10** for coffee, connection, and a conversation about creating practical solutions that strengthen individuals, families, and communities. We look forward to seeing you there.