Critical Design

**All are welcome**, wherever you are in your running/walking journey! We meet at Lapinlahti’s sauna, and the run begins promptly at 6:00 PM. **Please arrive early to get ready.** * There is a changing room, a few lockers, and a bathroom available. * We will run from the sauna to the Sibelius Monument and back — a total distance of 6–6.5 km. * The sauna house will be locked while we are out running. * After the run, we will swim, hang out, and enjoy the sauna until **8:00 PM**. * We kindly ask everyone to leave by 8:00 PM. * **To ensure fair participation, if you are no longer able to join, please cancel at least 3 hours in advance so individuals on the waitlist may attend.** * *Zero Tolerance for Harassment* **Hosted by: Nia & Olli** Contact: Nia – +358 408223934 **HOW TO FIND US:** When arriving at the main gates of Lapinlahden Lähde, turn right and head towards the water. Lapinlahti's sauna is located halfway between the yellow main building and the red Venetsia building We want everyone to feel welcome and safe. **By participating, you agree to:** • Respect others – Be mindful of personal boundaries, privacy, and consent. • Listen actively – Give space for all voices and avoid dominating conversations. • Use inclusive language – Avoid offensive, discriminatory, or exclusionary remarks. • Be considerate in the sauna – Some people may prefer quiet or need space. • Address issues kindly – If a problem arises, bring it up respectfully or with the hosts. Tervetuloa Run to Saunaan! Tapaamme Lapinlahden saunalla ja lähdemme juoksemaan noin kello 18.00. Tulethan ajoissa! • Käytössä on pukuhuone, lokeroita ja vessat. • Juoksemme saunalta Sibelius-monumentille ja takaisin. Kokonaismatka on noin 6-6,5 km. • Sauna on lukossa juoksun ajan. Juoksun jälkeen saunomme, uimme ja vietämme aikaa yhdessä kello 20.00 saakka. Kello 20.00 jälkeen meidän täytyy poistua. Tapahtuman järjestävät: Nia ja Olli Voit soittaa Nialle: +358 408223934 MITEN MEIDÄT LÖYTÄÄ: Kun saavut Lapinlahden Lähteen pääporteille, käänny oikealle kohti merta. Lapinlahden sauna on keltaisen päärakennuksen ja punaisen Venetsia-rakennuksen puolivälissä. Haluamme, että kaikilla on turvallinen olo. Run to Sauna -tapahtumissa noudatamme seuraavia periaatteita: • Kunnioitamme toistemme rajoja ja yksityisyyttä. • Annamme kaikille tilaa osallistua keskusteluun. • Puhumme kaikista ihmisistä ja ihmisryhmistä kunnioittavasti. • Olemme ystävällisiä toisillemme. • Ongelmatapauksissa voit kääntyä ohjaajien puoleen. **MIITTI’s Principles for safer space:** MIITTI wants to nourish a safe and pleasant environment for everyone, where everyone can feel safe as themselves. By joining as a volunteer, employee or participant of the event or activity, you agree to follow the guidelines below *Non-discrimination* I do not make assumptions about people based on their external characteristics or names. I treat all participants with respect, and I don’t use language or take actions that discriminate based on race, gender, sexuality, disability, age, religion, or any other characteristic. I respect pronouns and names. *Boundaries* I respect others' personal space and boundaries, both physical and mental. I acknowledge that I cannot know someone else's boundaries without asking first. I ask before touching. I listen to others and adapt my behavior if someone indicates that my behavior makes them feel uncomfortable. *Creating Safe Environment* Everyone is responsible for contributing to a safe and respectful environment. If I witness harassment, I do my part to support those who experience inappropriate or offensive treatment. *Zero Tolerance for Harassment* Our space upholds a strict zero-tolerance policy towards any form of harassment. Harassment, whether verbal, physical, or online, will not be tolerated. If you experience or witness inappropriate behavior or harassment at our events, please report it to the MIITTI or Lapinlahden Lähde staff. If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms: IG: [instagram.com/miitti1](http://instagram.com/miitti1) Facebook: [facebook.com/miitti1](http://facebook.com/miitti1) Web: [lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti](http://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti) Whatsapp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!

Språkcaféet är en öppen diskussionsgrupp för dig som är intresserad av att öva svenska. Välkommen till Oodi för att samtala på svenska, dricka te, lära känna nya människor och utveckla dina språkkunskaper. Tröskeln är låg alla är välkomna till språkcaféet. Vi träffas på andra våningen i grupprum 7. Språkcaféet ordnas i samarbete med Föreningen Luckan. NÄR? Varje onsdag från 28 januari till 1 juli 2026, kl. 17.30–19.00 VAR? Tölöviksgatan 4 / Helsingfors centrumbibliotek Oodi Grupprum 7, våning 2 HUR? Gratis, men antalet platser är begränsattill 20 personer – säkra din plats i tid. Läs mer här: [https://helmet.finna.fi/FeedContent/LinkedEvents?id=helsinki:agilmfuur4](https://helmet.finna.fi/FeedContent/LinkedEvents?id=helsinki%3Aagilmfuur4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEyOXJVem4wcG9zTFNnWkZhb3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7oA9f7wT-vg1TTAOolBX-DIa5v2kNy3WWYaRoGIQ61b0FwKnNRIpM8iS_SNA_aem_3IiwBU4uC18LCxtcZztCzQ) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- The Language Café is an open discussion group for people interested in practicing Swedish. Come to Ode to discuss in Swedish, drink tea, get to know new people and practice your language skills. We have a low threshold, everyone is welcome to the language café and we meet on the second floor in group room 7. The language café is organised in cooperation with Föreningen Luckan. WHEN? Every Wednesday starting 28th Jan - 1st July 2026 from 17.30-19.00 WHERE? Tölöviksgatan 4 / Helsinki Central Library Oodi, Group room 7, second floor HOW? Free, however, the space is limited to 20 people so make sure to grab a seat. Read more here: [https://helmet.finna.fi/FeedContent/LinkedEvents?id=helsinki:agilmfuur4](https://helmet.finna.fi/FeedContent/LinkedEvents?id=helsinki%3Aagilmfuur4&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEyOXJVem4wcG9zTFNnWkZhb3NydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5tA7X3DwdnHkLD_aFYiMP70HkHr0Sb51r5vMwwTnCaNWoZQI38y7VBcXHTqQ_aem_ankM-3hEAv-lqwS8R76POA)

Learning Finnish in Finland can be difficult because Finns tend to switch to English. That is one of the reasons people like our Finnish language café: you get to practice Finnish with Finns :) The events are completely free and there is always a native speaker to facilitate the conversation and to help find the right words. The coffee is good too ☕😋🇦🇹 Tervetuloa! When? ⏰ Usually Tuesday to Friday from 15:00 - 16:00 Where? 📍 In a cozy Viennese coffee house: The Good Coffee Company, Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki The Good Coffee Company A Taste of Vienna 🇦🇹 Eerikinkatu 33, 00180 Helsinki Please visit our Facebook page for updates and changes: https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodCoffeeCompany/events

Warm welcome to join our World Refugee Day Festival 2026 on Wednesday 17th of June! Join us in the park at Lapinlahden Lähde for a full evening of Story Sharing Café, live music, performances and amazing atmosphere! PROGRAM: 17.00: Host Zahra Karimy opens the festival 17.15: Shaam Choir performs 18.00: Story Sharing Café with performances by Turkish choir 20.00: Rami Thawi 20.45: Alhuriya Dabke group 21.30: DJ Yalla Collective Feel free to bring your own blankets and food for picnic. Participation is free of charge! The festival is arranged by MIITTI in collaboration with Story Sharing Universum ry, Amnesty International Finland, Together Platform and Sumud - The Finnish Palestine Network.

``` 👁️ EYE GAZING POP-UP – OLEMME MUKANA WORLD REFUGEE DAY FESTIVAALEILLA, Lapinlahti, Helsinki Keskiviikko 17.6.2026 | klo 17:00– 20:00 Mitä tapahtuu kun pysähdyt katsomaan toista ihmistä suoraan silmiin? Ilman suoritusta ja ilman roolia? Tuomme Helsinkiin yksinkertaisen ja syvällisen pop-up tapahtuman: Eye Gazing. Sinä. Toinen ihminen. Hiljainen kohtaaminen. Sinä päätät kuinka pitkään. Kun istut toisen ihmisen eteen ilman odotuksia, ilman rooleja, tapahtuu jotain yksinkertaista ja samalla harvinaista: näet toisen ja tulet itse nähdyksi. Ei sanoja eikä suoritusta. Vain kaksi ihmistä jotka kohtaa toisensa. Kun mieli lopettaa luokittelun jäljelle jää puhdas läsnäolo. Tämä on kaikille avoin kutsu kokeilla kohdatuksi tulemista. Istu ja katso. Anna katseen välittää sen mitä sanat eivät saa kerrotuksi. 📍 Lapinlahden Lähde, Lapinlahdenpolku 8, Helsinki 💸 Täysin ilmainen, ei ilmoittautumista ✅ Tule festareille ja mukaan kohtaamaan toisemme! Kohtaamisen järjestää Open Heart Helsinki yhteistyössä Lapinlahden Lähteen sekä MIITTI Ryn kanssa. #eyegazing #metta #kohtaaminen #helsinki #worldrefugeeday #festival OPEN HEART openheartofallbeings.com MIITTI RY https://www.instagram.com/miitti ```

**Join us for a cozy afternoon of curiosity, conversation, and connection.** This is a **relaxed social gathering** where simple questions open the door to meaningful stories, thoughtful conversations, and new connections. There is no pressure to share, and no right or wrong answers. Just bring your authentic self, listen with curiosity, enjoy meaningful conversations, and connect with new people. **What to expect:** 🐾 Fun introductions – Get to know each other 🍪 Cookie Jar Conversations – Share or listen to stories and explore different perspectives 🤔 Guessing Bowl – A playful game for curious minds 🌿 Relaxed socialising time – Continue conversations and make new connections **Curiosity • Conversation • Connection** When curiosity drives conversation and makes connections 🙂

【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】 * The purpose of competitive game session is to enjoy badminton games by focusing on trying your best to win the games. * You don't need to be a very good player to join this session. Our level range from beginner to intermediate. We will put you to play with people with similar level. But if you are the first time to come and I don't know your level, then I will put you to play with less-experienced players to start. * Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) Please also read the instruction inside this link, so that you have an idea how it works. * Please bring feather shuttles to join the games. We only accept specific shuttles. Please read the following. **If you come without bringing feather shuttles with you, I may ask you to go home.** 【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】 * Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) * We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list) * It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) to see if there is still a slot available there. * The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost. 【FEE and REFUND POLICY】 * Fee includes courts and the work I do to continue this group. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event. * Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter. * No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence. * Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you is there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't show up. 【COMMUNICATION】 * Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347) * There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected. 【DETAILS of COMPETITIVE GAMES】 * This is the list of shuttles we accept: RSL Classic Tourney, Academy Li-Ning Super 1000 Victor Smash It 1, 2, 3 Ling Mei 70, 80, 90 Ling Mei Gold, Black Yonex Aerosansa 30, 20, 10 NCS Pro, MAX * Smash Center also sells feather shuttles (Ling Mei Gold and Black). You can purchase there at your arrival. 【OTHERS】 * Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you! * If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond. * If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you. * Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work. * Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken. [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing) * You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)

**A Pride Month hangout for queer Desi/South Asian LGBTQIA+ people in Helsinki.** This meetup is for Desi and South Asian queer people who want to find community, friendship, and a sense of belonging with others who may understand similar cultural experiences. Many of us come from families, communities, or countries where being queer can be difficult, hidden, judged, or unsafe. This space is for people who may have dealt with homophobia, transphobia, silence, shame, pressure to fit in, or the feeling of having to separate their queer identity from their Desi/South Asian identity. The aim is to create a relaxed, low-pressure space where we can meet each other, talk, laugh, share experiences if we want to, and feel less alone. You do not have to be out everywhere, speak a specific language, drink alcohol, or explain your identity to join. **Who this is for:** Queer/LGBTQIA+ people with Desi, South Asian, or South Asian diaspora backgrounds, including Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Sri Lankan, Nepali, Bhutanese, Maldivian, Afghan, Indo-Caribbean, mixed, and diaspora identities. **What we might do:** This can be a casual pub, café, or picnic hangout during Pride Month. If people are interested, we can also make plans to go to the Pride parade together, so no one has to go alone. **What to expect:** No formal agenda, no pressure to share personal stories, and no need to stay the whole time. Come for a short while or stay for the full meetup. **Community care:** Please respect everyone’s privacy, names, pronouns, boundaries, cultures, faith backgrounds, and personal experiences. No photos, videos, or social media posts of people without clear consent. Racism, casteism, queerphobia, transphobia, harassment, or outing people will not be accepted. This is a small first step toward building queer Desi/South Asian community in Helsinki.

## **Juhannus – Our Summer Ritual** A midsummer celebration for people who want something more meaningful than another late-night party. This Juhannus Friday you are surrounded by Nature, Saunas, Music, and Good company. This event is a unique gathering of open-minded people who appreciate both Stillness and Celebration. Throughout the day you will have access to multiple Saunas, a wood-fired hot tub (palju) and a cold plunge. Here you can experience Sauna meditation, Traditional whisking (Vihtominen) and aromatherapy. Our Feel the Sun yoga session gets your body open and ready for the Dance to come. The day ends with uplifting music by Sauna Rave. Feel the rhythm by a fire to Free your soul and Release your energy. You can come alone, bring a partner, or gather a few friends. The atmosphere is welcoming, relaxed, and free from the pressure of staying out until sunrise. Sun. Sauna. Nature. Music. Human Connection. **Location** Villa Furuvik – Pihasauna Area Furuvikintie 5, Helsinki **Program** **15:00–17:00** **Open Sauna Experience** *Enjoy multiple saunas, the wood-fired hot tub (Palju), cold plunge, swimming, and our guided ForestMade Sauna Rituals.* **Sauna Ritual Schedule** * 15:00 – This is Sauna (Mindfulness Meditation) * 15:30 – Summer Breath (Breathing & Aromatherapy) * 16:00 – Birch Blessing (Birch Whisk Ritual) * 16:30 – Oak Forest (Oak Whisk Ritual) *Each ritual lasts approximately 5–10 minutes.* **17:00–18:00** **Feel The Sun – Yoga Session** *A gentle and accessible yoga practice suitable for all experience levels.* **18:00–22:00** **Sauna Rave** *An uplifting dance experience featuring Techno remixes from 80s, 90s & eurodance classics.* *Dance by the bonfire, enjoy the evening sun, cool off in the sea, and celebrate Juhannus in a unique way.* **Additional Information** * Fresh Lemonade, ForestMade Shirts and Jani Sydänsaari Art will available for purchase. * Bring your own drinks and refreshments. * Bring your own swimming wear and towel. * The event ends at 22:00 in accordance with local quiet hours. * After the event, guests are welcome to continue enjoying the Juhannus evening at the public beach area located on the property. * No official afterparty. **Ticket Information** Official Ticket Sales through Saunat.fi Availability is limited. Questions? DM us on **Instagram: @ForestMadeBoys** *Upon arrival at Villa Furuvik, you will receive your event wristband, which grants access to the event area and activities.* **What to Bring** * Swimming wear * Towel * Water bottle * Your favorite summer drink * An open mind and a willingness to enjoy something different We look forward to celebrating the longest day of the year with you. 🌞🔥

**Qigong and Meditation Master Class Helsinki "Touch Your Pure Heart Retreat with Norberto"** June 19-23, 2026 Registration, email to info@renxuefinland.fi by the 5th of June. **"Let Your Heart Bloom"** **\- How to Work Through Fear & Inner Wounds to improve your well\-being?** 5 Days retreat with Norberto Rodrigues, advanced Ren Xue teacher. **\- A journey to profound healing and inner growth**. Unlock the secrets to profound healing and personal transformation at the next Ren Xue Finland Retreat in Helsinki with Ren Xue teacher Norberto Rodrigues from June 19 to 23, 2026 with a healing night on 18.6 and closing in the morning on 24.6. **Limited place available** Nestled in the marine landscapes of Vuosaari, Helsinki, this 5 Days retreat offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in Qigong and meditation, guided by the inspiring journey of Norberto himself. **Message from Norberto:** Through a pure heart we can experience our true self, I invite you to walk with me in this path of life cultivation, to free yourself into who you really are. Heal the relationships with yourself by awakening your Pure Heart. An awakened heart can heal fear, shame, guilt, doubts, inner wounds, anger, sadness, depression, lack of purpose, emptiness, lack of contentment, procrastination, humiliation, lack of direction and many other problems you may find in your life. Come and touch and heal your own heart and become the light to touch the hearts of others. Heal your relationship with yourself and heal your relationship with others. **Tong Yuan - The Five Xin Care** The Five Essential Qualities of the Heart, sometimes called Wu Xin or Five Xin, is short for the five different states or environments of the heart characterized by five different qualities and feelings. The Five Xin, trust, openness, love, gratitude, and Gong Jing, are a natural part of human life; humans are born with them. The manifestation of Five Xin plays a crucial role in wellbeing and growth. They are at the foundation of building a kind, positive, harmonious, and healthy relationship with ourselves and with the world. In Ren Xue, working on Five Xin to purify the heart is greatly emphasized as the heart holds the key to open the door to the True Self. The 7th Method of Yuan Gong, Tong Yuan or Five Xin Care is for this purpose. Going through the three stages of practice, one can eventually achieve the ultimate goal – manifesting Five Xin unconditionally in every present moment. **5 Days full-day program and more** During these unique 5 days full-day program, we will be guided through the practices by the qualified Ren Xue teachers. The First and second methods of Ren Xue Yuan Gong – Tian Yuan and Di Yuan will be practiced daily in the morning and evening sessions. If time allows, we will also learn the third method Ren Yuan. **A healing night on the 18th of June, and morning practice and closing session are planned on the 24th of June. These are optional and free of charge.** On the 26th and 27th of June, a public talk will be held in Helsinki and Turku, more details will come soon. The villa at Kallahti, Vuosaari in Helsinki, is next to the seashore and surrounded by the forest and nature reservation area. Its atmosphere is supportive and relaxing. For those need accommodations, limited number of shared rooms are available. Don’t miss your chance to embark on a transformative adventure that will leave you revitalized and empowered. **Daily schedule (tentative)** Morning 09.00-09.45 program starts, morning practice 09.45-10.00 Break 10.00-12.30 Session 1 12.30-14.00 Lunch Afternoon 14.00-15.15 Session 2 15.15-16.00 Afternoon snack 16.00-18.00 Session 3 18.00-19.30 Break 19.30-20.45 Evening practice and closing **Registration and Fees** Only when payment has been made can a place on the retreat be guaranteed. Full program participation: 550 e (500 e for Ren Xue communities and more discount is available for unwaged upon request) For those need accommodations, package price 675 e Price including 5 days program, lunch and afternoon tea/snacks. Payment to REN XUE Finland ry Account: FI63 1544 3000 0365 12 (Nordea Bank) Reference number: 8921 Please pay before the 5th of June at the latest **For more information and questions, please write to:** info@renxuefinland.fi **About Ren Xue:** [Ren Xue International](https://www.renxueinternational.org/)

Hello sporty population! Join us for badminton and meet people from around the world! Everyone is welcome, whether you’re a beginner or already experienced. **IMPORTANT**: Spots are limited, so please reserve yours in advance. Only registered participants can join to ensure fair access for everyone. If you mark “going” but do not attend, or fail to cancel at least 1 day before(By 9pm Saturday), you may be suspended from the next two sessions. 📍 Location: Talihalli Huopalahti ⏰ Time: 11:00–12:30 🏸 Courts: 9, 10, and 11 You can meet us at the entrance a little before 11:00 or come directly to the courts (**please do not enter before our booking starts**). Who can join? • Open to everyone, regardless of background or gender • No badminton skills needed – beginners are welcome • **Age limit: 16+** Event is free, but please bring your rackets and indoor shoes, or you can borrow a racket from the hall for free if needed. We are committed to making our events and activities accessible to those who need them most. Therefore, **individuals with a refugee background are welcome to attend free of charge without prior registration.** If you plan to join, simply send a message to Alaa to let us know you’re coming. This approach is intentional. Many refugees and newcomers face practical, cultural, and psychological barriers that can make formal registration difficult or discouraging. By removing this requirement, we aim to create a more inclusive, low-threshold environment where participation feels safe, simple, and welcoming. Our events are designed to support the mental health and well-being of refugees and immigrants, while also encouraging dialogue that challenges cross-cultural stigmas and stereotypes. We believe open access is an important step in building trust, increasing participation, and creating meaningful connections across communities. After badminton, we'll enjoy Talihalli's sauna and maybe go to a local restaurant to grab some lunch after the game. Warm welcome! 📞 Questions / Contact: Alaa – 040 5656096 Arun - 050 3206169 If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms: WhatsApp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community! [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/miitti1) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/miitti1) [Website](https://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/en/projekti/miitti)

**HOW TO FIND US** Outdoors: We meet **every Sunday at 15:00** in the **Töölönlahti Park**, opposite the entrance to Pikku-Finlandia. If you’re walking from Oodi, pass the playground with the big swings and the volleyball court. On the left, you’ll find us in the **area with benches, hammocks, and yellow chairs**. Indoors: When it's cold or rainy we move to the **top floor** of the **Oodi** **Library**, on the stairs opposite the children’s area. It's a good idea to **keep your sketchbook visible** so others can easily recognize that you're there for the sketching meetup. And if you’re a regular participant, making it clear that you're part of the sketching group can be very helpful for newcomers! \*\*\* **HOW IT WORKS** At each meetup, attendees take turns being the model for a quick **10-minute sketch session**. One person poses, everyone else sketches, then we rotate. Attendance varies considerably from week to week. Some Sundays attract a larger group, while on others only a handful of people may attend. Occasionally, nobody may show up at all. For this reason, we encourage everyone to participate with an open mind and flexible expectations. Whether you spend the afternoon sketching with many people, just a few, or simply enjoying some focused drawing time on your own, we hope you'll embrace the experience as it is. \*\*\* **WHAT TO BRING** Pencils and paper (or any sketching tools you like). No fees, no pressure. The only thing we ask is that everyone takes a turn posing for the group. You can sit however you feel comfortable - the 10 minutes go by quickly! Draw as much as you like, skip a round if you’re tired or just want to chat, and leave whenever it suits you. The event continues as long as there’s interest. \*\*\* **STAYING CONNECTED** Anyone who has attended at least one meetup is welcome to join our WhatsApp group. If you’d like to be added, just ask around at the meetup – several community members can approve new participants, and there’s usually at least one of them present. Alternatively, send us a message with your phone number (including the country code) and a photo proving that you attended a meetup. This measure helps prevent spam and advertising in the WhatsApp group. \*\*\* **SOCIAL MEDIA** Curious about our work? 👉 instagram.com/sketchy.collective If you’d like to share your drawings from the meetup, you can send them on WhatsApp group or use the Instagram collab function. We warmly encourage everyone to share their work and take part in building our international sketching gallery - together with artists from all the cities where Sketchy Collective meetups are organized. \*\*\* **PHOTO CONSENT** Photos may be taken during the meetup and shared on our social media. If you don’t want to appear in photos, just let the photographer know. If you’re taking photos, please make sure people know about it and can choose whether they want to be included or not.

This week's event is unhosted. Pay the **5 € board gaming fee** to the bar at the counter when you arrive. You must be at least 18 years old to enter [Arkade](https://www.arkade.fi/). We play in English and the game rules are taught before starting play, unless everyone is already familiar with the game. No previous experience with board gaming required. Despite our RSVP numbers here on Meetup, we almost always have at least 20 people participating weekly. The venue has a great board game library, the host and other players usually bring their own games too: our selection varies weekly. We're a very casual group so you're welcome to arrive early or late and join whatever game is starting up, there is no attendance tracking, or welcoming process. The bar has alcoholic drinks, mocktails, and soft drinks available as well as some snack foods. They've been okay with people ordering food to the bar with meal delivery services. If you are feeling sick, please stay home.

Here’s an opportunity to learn Swedish over a good cup of coffee or tea ☕😋🇦🇹 for free! The events are free and there is always a native speaker to facilitate the conversation and to help find the right words. In addition, we offer free (yes, free) coffee, tea, and biscuits to participants! På svenska, men på olika sätt Att prata med folk på café kan vara både nöje och utmaning. Hos oss serverar vi kaffe med mycket glädje och inspiration. Tillsammans lyssnar, pratar, läser, berättar eller skriver vi nyfiket och glatt oavsett om du har den finlandssvenska kulturen redan i blodet eller vill bekanta dig med den. Vi erbjuder deltagarna gratis kaffe eller te med lite tilltugg. When? ⏰ Usually Thursdays at 16:00 Where? 📍 In a cozy Viennese café: The Good Coffee Company, Eerikinkatu 33, Helsinki Välkommen! **The Good Coffee Company** **A Taste of Vienna 🇦🇹** Eerikinkatu 33, 00180 Helsinki Please visit our Facebook Page for updates and changes: **[https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodCoffeeCompany/events](https://www.facebook.com/TheGoodCoffeeCompany/events)**

We're going to GameArena! We'll be in-person at the GameArena Gateway for our monthly COGG Prototype and Play event. Come to play and showcase your games! We're back in the upper levels of the catwalk area. It'll be packed with lots of camaraderie playing your game(s) and other's games on the 2nd floor. Light snacks and water provided but you can buy food and drinks at the bar (alcoholic drink ID required). [www.game-arena.co](http://www.game-arena.co/) **Attendees:** Don't have a game to show? Not a problem! All are welcomed and invited from all ages and backgrounds. The more we can have to play test our games is all the better! **Developers:** Do you have a game that you would like to get critical feedback on? Would you like an excuse to work on a game with other talented artists, programmers, musicians, designers, and writers? Digital, table-top, non-experienced developers, and the like are welcomed! We'll provide signage for your game to help others learn more about your work. Wifi, outlets, tables, and seats (though standing tables also) are available. Come to the Prototype and Play workshop to collaborate and meet local game developers for an evening of epic and raw game play fun! Play works-in-progress, show off your own game, work with others to add polish to a game, or even lend your talents to other fellow developers. For this event, light snacks from the bar and water will be provided! Though you can purchase you own if you like at the bar: [https://www.game-arena.co/menu](https://www.game-arena.co/menu) Can use South Garage at the Gateway with a $5 voucher on your way out. 75 E 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201 [https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/UwgveUYG37Jy7RtS9) If you have any questions or comments, as always, feel free to reach out to us at [info@thecogg.com!](http://info@thecogg.com!/)

## 🤝 Host Information A co-hosted event by ProductTank Columbus & Women in Product Columbus 💡 About the Workshop AI adoption is stalling across organizations — not because of a lack of motivation or tools, but because it's fundamentally a behavior design challenge. This hands-on workshop applies proven Behavior Design models and methods to help you move from a vague organizational wish to boost AI adoption to 3-5 concrete, testable interventions you can act on starting tomorrow. Whether you're a product manager, on a product team, or just someone trying to get AI to actually stick at work, you'll leave with a clear picture of what's worth focusing on, what to ignore, and how to drive real, sustained adoption — no guesswork required. 🛠️ What to Bring Laptop: Fully charged and ready to go. AI Assistant: Have your favorite AI assistant pulled up. (Dom will be using Claude, but feel free to use whichever assistant you prefer!) 🍕 Logistics & Perks Food & Drink: Pizza and drinks provided! Parking: Plenty of free spaces available on-site. ###

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

We are bringing Microsoft Build sessions to Columbus Ohio! The Central Ohio Azure Meetup and Central Ohio .NET Developer's Group (CONDG) are coming together to bring some of the labs and breakouts from Microsoft Build to your backyard. In this free, 1 day event, you are going to Build stuff with us! And yes, there will be free food. Please RSVP via [Microsoft Build //localhost:columbus | Microsoft Reactor](https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/reactor/events/27247/).

## Candle Making Night at The Arcane Foundry \| Design Your Own Custom Candle **SPECIAL PROMOTION**: Buy 3 and get 1 Free! Step into The Arcane Foundry and create your own custom candle from start to finish. This is a laid back, hands-on experience where **you’ll blend fragrances, choose your vessel, and pour your own candle using 100% soy wax**. Whether you’re coming solo or with friends, it’s designed to be simple, creative, and a good time. We’ll walk you through the entire process, from picking your scents to choosing between a traditional cotton wick or a crackling wood wick. You can go with one fragrance or mix your own blend to create something completely unique**. No experience needed**, just show up and we’ll handle the rest. While your candle sets, feel free to hang out, play a game, explore the shop, or just relax and talk. Drinks and snacks are available, and the atmosphere leans into the **fantasy**, **dark academia**, and **gothic horror** vibe The Arcane Foundry is known for. Learn More: [Candle Making in Columbus, Ohio at The Arcane Foundry](https://thearcanefoundry.com/candle-making/) *** ### What to Expect: * Guided candle making experience * Choose your own vessel, wax, wick, and fragrance * 100% soy wax candles * Optional drinks and snacks * Time to relax while your candle cools *** ### Important Notes: * Please arrive on time so we can start together * Candles will need time to set before taking home * This is a beginner-friendly event *** ### RSVP Required Reserve your spot on Meetup to lock in your seat. **Candle Making** (includes vessel, your choice of wick, wax, scented oil, labels and lids) 5oz Glass Jars $15 8oz Candle Tins $25 12oz Glass Candles $35 12oz Amber Jars $40 16 oz Skull or Jack o Lantern Candle Mugs $65 (Limited Edition!) **All materials included. You just bring yourself (and your drink of choice).** **Payments accepted:** * Credit Card * Venmo: @Daclaud-Lee * Cashapp: $DaclaudL

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** *Customize the IDE: Building Extensions for Visual Studio Code* Visual Studio Code is one of the most widely used development environments today, and much of its flexibility comes from its extension ecosystem. Extensions allow developers to customize the editor with new features, integrations, and workflow improvements tailored to their needs. In this session, we’ll cover what extensions are and the different types available, including full extensions written in TypeScript or JavaScript, along with lighter-weight extensions such as color themes, language packs, language support, code snippets, and keymaps. We’ll also look at practical reasons a developer might create an extension, from automating repetitive tasks to adding custom tooling. The session includes a hands-on walkthrough of creating a new extension, testing it locally, and understanding the basic project structure. We’ll close with a brief overview of how extensions are packaged and published to the Visual Studio Marketplace and other distribution options. **YouTube Link** TBD

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!