Local History & Culture

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **The Original Budapest Alternative Street Art & Jewish Tour 🎨✡️** Step off the beaten path and uncover Budapest’s vibrant street art culture and rich Jewish heritage on this immersive walking tour. Led by passionate local guides, this experience dives deep into the creative soul of Budapest’s 7th District—the historic Jewish Quarter—where history, art, and urban culture collide. Stroll through colorful streets filled with murals, hidden galleries, and cultural hubs, while learning how the city’s Jewish roots and post-communist era inspired a wave of artistic freedom. From synagogues and memorials to alternative bars, design studios, and community spaces, every stop tells a unique story about resilience, identity, and creativity. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this tour offers a new perspective on Budapest’s most dynamic neighborhood. **🌟 Highlights** * Discover Budapest’s underground art scene and creative community * Explore the Jewish Quarter, its landmarks, and living heritage * See murals, installations, and street art masterpieces * Visit local galleries, ruin bars, and design spaces * Learn how Budapest’s history shaped its modern identity **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local guide * Walking tour through the Jewish Quarter & alternative neighborhoods * Insights into art, history, and local culture * Small-group experience for an authentic connection

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **Discover the Heart of Budapest — History, Culture & Hidden Stories** Step into the soul of Hungary’s capital with The Original Budapest Walking Tour, a perfect introduction to the city’s fascinating history, vibrant architecture, and rich culture. Whether it’s your first time in Budapest or you’re returning to see it from a local’s perspective, this tour offers the ultimate way to truly understand what makes the city so special. Led by passionate local guides, this walking tour takes you on a journey through both sides of the Danube — Buda and Pest — exploring their contrasts and connections. From royal palaces and heroic squares to ruin bars and romantic river views, every stop reveals a story that shaped Budapest’s identity. Get insider tips, local anecdotes, and a deeper appreciation for the people and events that made this one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. **🌟 Highlights** * Explore Buda and Pest, the twin cities that form Budapest * Visit famous landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle * Learn about Hungary’s communist and royal past from expert local guides * Discover hidden gems and local hangouts off the beaten path * Enjoy a fun, engaging, and budget-friendly way to explore the city **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local tour guide * Comprehensive walking tour covering key historical and cultural sites * Insider recommendations for food, nightlife, and attractions * Small group experience for a more personal touch

## **☕ International Coffee Meetup Budapest** Working in Budapest? Studying here? Or just looking for a relaxed way to meet people without loud bars or awkward networking? This is a **casual coffee hangout** for international professionals, students and open-minded locals who enjoy good conversation and a calm social vibe. **Join our Whatsapp group**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GA0BguYOS5dLOofoBHZhMC No games, no presentations, no pressure — just people meeting in real life over coffee or tea. ### **🌍 Who this is for** * International Professionals & Students * Digital Nomads & Expats * Locals who enjoy meeting people from different cultures * Anyone who prefers **daytime / early evening socializing** Coming alone is **very normal** — most people do. ### **☕ What we’ll do** * Grab coffee or tea * Sit together at a table * Chat naturally in small groups * Introduce people to each other You’re free to stay for 20 minutes or the whole time. ### **🕰 Details** 📅 **Day:** Every Sunday 🕠 **Time:** 16:00–18:00 📍 **Location:** Sapori Siciliani (Budapest, Dohány u. 82, 1074) ### **🤝 A few simple guidelines** * Be respectful * Buy a drink when you arrive * No pressure, no expectations * English will be the main language If you’re curious, social, and want to meet people in a relaxed setting — **join us for a coffee.**

🌤 Light frost and sunshine are expected. ☃ **Everyone is welcome!** We’ll walk **1–2 km**, make a campfire, build a **snow fortress** and storm it! 🔥 During a break, we’ll cook lunch using **melted snow**. This is a **full-day outdoor program**: nature games, teamwork and friendship — the kind of experience many of us had in the 90s and which both kids and adults are missing today. *** ## 📍 Meeting points 1. **08:40** — Nyugati railway station, at the beginning of platform 5 2. **09:00** — Széll Kálmán tér, at the top of the metro escalator 3. **09:25** — Bus stop *Országos Korányi Intézet* [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gw27nVwGM5RkP1gp6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gw27nVwGM5RkP1gp6) *** ## 🔙 Return 1. **15:20** — Országos Korányi Intézet 2. **15:40** — Széll Kálmán tér 3. **16:00** — Nyugati If the group is delayed, we will inform participants in advance in a **dedicated event chat**. We kindly ask parents to arrive on time — after the hike everyone will be tired and eager to get home. *** ## 💶 Price * **Standard:** 16,000 HUF * **Early payment** (36+ hours before the Nyugati meeting): **12,000 HUF** * **12–35 hours before:** **14,000 HUF** *** ## 🥣 Shared lunch option You can join a **shared hot lunch**, cooked on a camping stove. Vegetables, grains, cheese and spices. We carry the food together. * Adults: **2,500 HUF** * Children (up to 16 years): **2,000 HUF** *** 🎒 What to bring * Water * Hot tea in a thermos * Solid lunch **or** a bowl + spoon if joining the shared meal * Comfortable clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty * Warm clothing * Spare clothes, especially **socks, gloves and a T-shirt**

Hey everyone, here we go again with our next event on Sunday! I will host this session, so please follow my instructions! 🙏 IMPORTANT NOTE: Free Cancellation is only until Saturday, 18:00 PM. If you cancel after that without noticing the host, You must pay the fee to compensate the court and shuttlecock. WAITLISTED ATTENDEES: If you are in the WAITLIST but you decided to come, there will be an extra payment as part of the punishment. The amount of Payment should be 1,000 HUF extra. Level of expectation : intermediate - advanced Venue: Tüskecsarnok Sportscentre: 1117 Budapest, Hevesy György út, Sportscentre Map: http://tuskecsarnok.hu/wp-content/uploads/tuske-map-1-full.png Look for #7 on the map. More info in the "How to find us" section of the Meetup event. Our venue does not provide rackets, which means that you'll have to bring your own racket! There are 2 courts booked for us for 3 hours from 15:00 till 18:00. Showers and changing rooms are available! Extra Note Attendance fee: We will divide the court fee by the number of people showing up. However, in certain circumstance, when the number of people cannot is less than and equal to 8, The Host deserve to contact the people who canceled after the time designated cancellation time. The expected fee is usually around 2500-3500 HUF per person. Payment is done at the court. or The host will reach you out via meetup chat. !!!Last but not least: if you have signed up but cannot make it for some reason, just take a minute to sign off, RSVP = no. This is to help those who are on the waiting list and want to play. The cancellation time with non-sick reason should be 18 hours before the session. In case you are not feeling well on the session day, please kindly contact the host via comment or privately message him/her with the direct message feature maximum 3 hours before the session. Looking forward to seeing you! cheers, Yoga Liability: The participation happens on own risk. There is no liability for any accidents, thefts or damages from the organizer.

\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \(English version below\) \-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Tanulj meg tangózni 2 óra alatt – még akkor is, ha soha nem táncoltál!** Fedezd fel Dél-Amerika legbensőségesebb és legszenvedélyesebb táncát, az argentin tangót – egy különleges élményt, ahol a mozdulat és az ölelés találkozik. Ez a workshop pont neked szól, ha mindig is szerettél volna táncolni, de nem tudtad, hol kezdd el. * Kezdőknek is ideális – semmilyen előképzettség nem kell * Partner nélkül is jöhetsz – ott párosítunk * Már az első óra végére tudsz táncolni egy tangót **Mit ad neked ez a 2 óra?** * Megtanulod a tangó alapjait, miközben megtapasztalod: * milyen érzés valakivel egy ritmusra lélegezni, * hogyan ad önbizalmat a mozgás, * és hogyan kapcsol össze két embert egy ölelés. A workshop után azonnal csatlakozhatsz rendszeres tangótanfolyamainkhoz, így lépésről lépésre fejlődhetsz tovább. **Dátum:** Január 11. (vasárnap) – 18:30–20:30 **Helyszín:** Budapest, Andrássy út 35. **Ár:** 9.000 Ft – **elővételben 6.000 Ft,** **ha előző napig befizeted.** **Regisztrálj most!** [https://tangolibre.hu/intenziv-tango-tanfolyam/](https://tangolibre.hu/intenziv-tango-tanfolyam/) ///////////////////////////////////////////// **Learn to dance tango in just 2 hours – even if you’ve never danced before!** Discover South America’s most intimate and passionate dance – the Argentine tango. An experience where movement meets connection, and every embrace tells a story. This workshop is perfect for you if you’ve always wanted to dance but never knew where to start. * Ideal for absolute beginners – no previous experience required * No partner needed – we’ll match you up during the class * By the end of the first hour, you’ll already be dancing your first tango * **What will these 2 hours give you?** * You’ll learn the basics of tango while discovering: * how movement builds confidence, * and how an embrace can connect two people beyond words. After the workshop, you can immediately join our regular tango courses and continue your journey step by step. **Date:** January 11 (Sunday) – 18:30–20:30 **Venue:** Budapest, Andrássy út 35. **Price:** 9,000 HUF – **early-bird 6,000 HUF if paid by the day before.** **Frequently Asked Questions** I don’t have a dance partner – can I still come? \- Yes\! Most participants come alone\, and we’ll pair you up during the workshop\. I’ve never danced before – will I feel lost? \- Not at all\. This workshop was created exactly for you\. We teach step by step\, so even complete beginners can enjoy immediate success\. What should I wear? \- Comfortable clothes that allow free movement and smooth\-soled shoes\. That’s all you need\! **Instructors** Szeghalmi Endre & Serbán Andrea 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: [https://tangolibre.hu/en/intensive-tango-workshop/](https://tangolibre.hu/en/intensive-tango-workshop/)

**What to expect?** A strong, empowering, high-intensity, low-impact interval training using the Pilates principles. • Build deep core & glute strength • Improve posture & muscle tone • Support weight loss & body confidence • Energizing, EDM music **PRICE:** **Single DROP-IN** **4,500 HUF per class (cash or Revolut)** **4-CLASS PACK** **16,000 HUF (cash or Revolut)** **\*\*‼️ IMPORTANT! Reserve your spot 24 hours before by sending me an email to \*[info@bojanaflow.com***](http://info@bojanaflow.com%2A%2A%2A/)** Mats are provided. There is a changing room. We have tea after. **ABOUT THE TEACHER** Bojana — (Certified in Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Kundalini, Kids Yoga, Inferno Hot Pilates) International teaching experience across Europe, the Maldives, Panama, San Diego & Luxembourg. Passionate retreat curator (Croatia & Bali in 2026). My classes emphasize strength, flexibility (in body & mind), breath, mindfulness, and empowerment.

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **The Original Budapest Alternative Street Art & Jewish Tour 🎨✡️** Step off the beaten path and uncover Budapest’s vibrant street art culture and rich Jewish heritage on this immersive walking tour. Led by passionate local guides, this experience dives deep into the creative soul of Budapest’s 7th District—the historic Jewish Quarter—where history, art, and urban culture collide. Stroll through colorful streets filled with murals, hidden galleries, and cultural hubs, while learning how the city’s Jewish roots and post-communist era inspired a wave of artistic freedom. From synagogues and memorials to alternative bars, design studios, and community spaces, every stop tells a unique story about resilience, identity, and creativity. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or a curious traveler, this tour offers a new perspective on Budapest’s most dynamic neighborhood. **🌟 Highlights** * Discover Budapest’s underground art scene and creative community * Explore the Jewish Quarter, its landmarks, and living heritage * See murals, installations, and street art masterpieces * Visit local galleries, ruin bars, and design spaces * Learn how Budapest’s history shaped its modern identity **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local guide * Walking tour through the Jewish Quarter & alternative neighborhoods * Insights into art, history, and local culture * Small-group experience for an authentic connection

**Note:** *We receive bookings from many different platforms, so you can expect a lively group with people joining from all over the world. When you join this tour, you’ll be part of a fun, social crowd ready to explore the city together.* **Discover the Heart of Budapest — History, Culture & Hidden Stories** Step into the soul of Hungary’s capital with The Original Budapest Walking Tour, a perfect introduction to the city’s fascinating history, vibrant architecture, and rich culture. Whether it’s your first time in Budapest or you’re returning to see it from a local’s perspective, this tour offers the ultimate way to truly understand what makes the city so special. Led by passionate local guides, this walking tour takes you on a journey through both sides of the Danube — Buda and Pest — exploring their contrasts and connections. From royal palaces and heroic squares to ruin bars and romantic river views, every stop reveals a story that shaped Budapest’s identity. Get insider tips, local anecdotes, and a deeper appreciation for the people and events that made this one of Europe’s most enchanting capitals. **🌟 Highlights** * Explore Buda and Pest, the twin cities that form Budapest * Visit famous landmarks like St. Stephen’s Basilica, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle * Learn about Hungary’s communist and royal past from expert local guides * Discover hidden gems and local hangouts off the beaten path * Enjoy a fun, engaging, and budget-friendly way to explore the city **✅ What’s Included** * Professional local tour guide * Comprehensive walking tour covering key historical and cultural sites * Insider recommendations for food, nightlife, and attractions * Small group experience for a more personal touch

## **☕ International Coffee Meetup Budapest** Working in Budapest? Studying here? Or just looking for a relaxed way to meet people without loud bars or awkward networking? This is a **casual coffee hangout** for international professionals, students and open-minded locals who enjoy good conversation and a calm social vibe. **Join our Whatsapp group**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GA0BguYOS5dLOofoBHZhMC No games, no presentations, no pressure — just people meeting in real life over coffee or tea. ### **🌍 Who this is for** * International Professionals & Students * Digital Nomads & Expats * Locals who enjoy meeting people from different cultures * Anyone who prefers **daytime / early evening socializing** Coming alone is **very normal** — most people do. ### **☕ What we’ll do** * Grab coffee or tea * Sit together at a table * Chat naturally in small groups * Introduce people to each other You’re free to stay for 20 minutes or the whole time. ### **🕰 Details** 📅 **Day:** Every Sunday 🕠 **Time:** 16:00–18:00 📍 **Location:** Sapori Siciliani (Budapest, Dohány u. 82, 1074) ### **🤝 A few simple guidelines** * Be respectful * Buy a drink when you arrive * No pressure, no expectations * English will be the main language If you’re curious, social, and want to meet people in a relaxed setting — **join us for a coffee.**

🌤 Light frost and sunshine are expected. ☃ **Everyone is welcome!** We’ll walk **1–2 km**, make a campfire, build a **snow fortress** and storm it! 🔥 During a break, we’ll cook lunch using **melted snow**. This is a **full-day outdoor program**: nature games, teamwork and friendship — the kind of experience many of us had in the 90s and which both kids and adults are missing today. *** ## 📍 Meeting points 1. **08:40** — Nyugati railway station, at the beginning of platform 5 2. **09:00** — Széll Kálmán tér, at the top of the metro escalator 3. **09:25** — Bus stop *Országos Korányi Intézet* [https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gw27nVwGM5RkP1gp6](https://maps.app.goo.gl/Gw27nVwGM5RkP1gp6) *** ## 🔙 Return 1. **15:20** — Országos Korányi Intézet 2. **15:40** — Széll Kálmán tér 3. **16:00** — Nyugati If the group is delayed, we will inform participants in advance in a **dedicated event chat**. We kindly ask parents to arrive on time — after the hike everyone will be tired and eager to get home. *** ## 💶 Price * **Standard:** 16,000 HUF * **Early payment** (36+ hours before the Nyugati meeting): **12,000 HUF** * **12–35 hours before:** **14,000 HUF** *** ## 🥣 Shared lunch option You can join a **shared hot lunch**, cooked on a camping stove. Vegetables, grains, cheese and spices. We carry the food together. * Adults: **2,500 HUF** * Children (up to 16 years): **2,000 HUF** *** 🎒 What to bring * Water * Hot tea in a thermos * Solid lunch **or** a bowl + spoon if joining the shared meal * Comfortable clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty * Warm clothing * Spare clothes, especially **socks, gloves and a T-shirt**

Hey everyone, here we go again with our next event on Sunday! I will host this session, so please follow my instructions! 🙏 IMPORTANT NOTE: Free Cancellation is only until Saturday, 18:00 PM. If you cancel after that without noticing the host, You must pay the fee to compensate the court and shuttlecock. WAITLISTED ATTENDEES: If you are in the WAITLIST but you decided to come, there will be an extra payment as part of the punishment. The amount of Payment should be 1,000 HUF extra. Level of expectation : intermediate - advanced Venue: Tüskecsarnok Sportscentre: 1117 Budapest, Hevesy György út, Sportscentre Map: http://tuskecsarnok.hu/wp-content/uploads/tuske-map-1-full.png Look for #7 on the map. More info in the "How to find us" section of the Meetup event. Our venue does not provide rackets, which means that you'll have to bring your own racket! There are 2 courts booked for us for 3 hours from 15:00 till 18:00. Showers and changing rooms are available! Extra Note Attendance fee: We will divide the court fee by the number of people showing up. However, in certain circumstance, when the number of people cannot is less than and equal to 8, The Host deserve to contact the people who canceled after the time designated cancellation time. The expected fee is usually around 2500-3500 HUF per person. Payment is done at the court. or The host will reach you out via meetup chat. !!!Last but not least: if you have signed up but cannot make it for some reason, just take a minute to sign off, RSVP = no. This is to help those who are on the waiting list and want to play. The cancellation time with non-sick reason should be 18 hours before the session. In case you are not feeling well on the session day, please kindly contact the host via comment or privately message him/her with the direct message feature maximum 3 hours before the session. Looking forward to seeing you! cheers, Yoga Liability: The participation happens on own risk. There is no liability for any accidents, thefts or damages from the organizer.

\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \(English version below\) \-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Tanulj meg tangózni 2 óra alatt – még akkor is, ha soha nem táncoltál!** Fedezd fel Dél-Amerika legbensőségesebb és legszenvedélyesebb táncát, az argentin tangót – egy különleges élményt, ahol a mozdulat és az ölelés találkozik. Ez a workshop pont neked szól, ha mindig is szerettél volna táncolni, de nem tudtad, hol kezdd el. * Kezdőknek is ideális – semmilyen előképzettség nem kell * Partner nélkül is jöhetsz – ott párosítunk * Már az első óra végére tudsz táncolni egy tangót **Mit ad neked ez a 2 óra?** * Megtanulod a tangó alapjait, miközben megtapasztalod: * milyen érzés valakivel egy ritmusra lélegezni, * hogyan ad önbizalmat a mozgás, * és hogyan kapcsol össze két embert egy ölelés. A workshop után azonnal csatlakozhatsz rendszeres tangótanfolyamainkhoz, így lépésről lépésre fejlődhetsz tovább. **Dátum:** Január 11. (vasárnap) – 18:30–20:30 **Helyszín:** Budapest, Andrássy út 35. **Ár:** 9.000 Ft – **elővételben 6.000 Ft,** **ha előző napig befizeted.** **Regisztrálj most!** [https://tangolibre.hu/intenziv-tango-tanfolyam/](https://tangolibre.hu/intenziv-tango-tanfolyam/) ///////////////////////////////////////////// **Learn to dance tango in just 2 hours – even if you’ve never danced before!** Discover South America’s most intimate and passionate dance – the Argentine tango. An experience where movement meets connection, and every embrace tells a story. This workshop is perfect for you if you’ve always wanted to dance but never knew where to start. * Ideal for absolute beginners – no previous experience required * No partner needed – we’ll match you up during the class * By the end of the first hour, you’ll already be dancing your first tango * **What will these 2 hours give you?** * You’ll learn the basics of tango while discovering: * how movement builds confidence, * and how an embrace can connect two people beyond words. After the workshop, you can immediately join our regular tango courses and continue your journey step by step. **Date:** January 11 (Sunday) – 18:30–20:30 **Venue:** Budapest, Andrássy út 35. **Price:** 9,000 HUF – **early-bird 6,000 HUF if paid by the day before.** **Frequently Asked Questions** I don’t have a dance partner – can I still come? \- Yes\! Most participants come alone\, and we’ll pair you up during the workshop\. I’ve never danced before – will I feel lost? \- Not at all\. This workshop was created exactly for you\. We teach step by step\, so even complete beginners can enjoy immediate success\. What should I wear? \- Comfortable clothes that allow free movement and smooth\-soled shoes\. That’s all you need\! **Instructors** Szeghalmi Endre & Serbán Andrea 𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: [https://tangolibre.hu/en/intensive-tango-workshop/](https://tangolibre.hu/en/intensive-tango-workshop/)

**What to expect?** A strong, empowering, high-intensity, low-impact interval training using the Pilates principles. • Build deep core & glute strength • Improve posture & muscle tone • Support weight loss & body confidence • Energizing, EDM music **PRICE:** **Single DROP-IN** **4,500 HUF per class (cash or Revolut)** **4-CLASS PACK** **16,000 HUF (cash or Revolut)** **\*\*‼️ IMPORTANT! Reserve your spot 24 hours before by sending me an email to \*[info@bojanaflow.com***](http://info@bojanaflow.com%2A%2A%2A/)** Mats are provided. There is a changing room. We have tea after. **ABOUT THE TEACHER** Bojana — (Certified in Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Kundalini, Kids Yoga, Inferno Hot Pilates) International teaching experience across Europe, the Maldives, Panama, San Diego & Luxembourg. Passionate retreat curator (Croatia & Bali in 2026). My classes emphasize strength, flexibility (in body & mind), breath, mindfulness, and empowerment.

This will be an open forum discussion of the book "Native American History."

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Happy New Year Colleagues, The next Columbus Futurists public forum will be **Thursday January 15 at 12:00 pm noon** (eastern) [https://osu.zoom.us/j/93451873651?pwd=RXIyZ2t5RjRqRG02UGQ1aEFVQ1NFZz09](https://osu.zoom.us/j/93451873651?pwd=RXIyZ2t5RjRqRG02UGQ1aEFVQ1NFZz09) Please come prepared to offer your **"What if?" questions for 2026**. (I will offer seven to begin our conversation.) I also would like to announce the publication of my latest book: *[Anticipatory Biographies: Personal Histories of the Future](https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-032-08912-0)*, the tenth volume in the “Anticipation Science” series. Grounded in design fiction, futures research, anticipation science, and scenario writing, *Anticipatory Biographies* envisions how the world will be reshaped by artificial intelligence, technological automation, climate change, political disintegration, and the decline of higher education. This work of creative non-fiction bridges literary and scholarly forms, blending biography and design fiction with research-based insights to offer a narrative-based method for exploring futures. Ed Finn, Director of the Center for Science and the Imagination at Arizona State University says: “In this book **David Staley has invented a delightful new genre: the future biography.** He invites us to step into gritty, thrilling, and inspiring futures elbow-to-elbow with the characters living those stories. *Anticipatory Biographies* beautifully synthesizes Staley’s training as a historian, his expertise as a futurist, and his desire to ignite the imagination of his readers.” Hope you'll be able to read it, and hope to see you all on the 15th. D. David J. Staley, Ph.D. President, Columbus Futurists 614.316.1348 [columbus.futurists@gmail.com](mailto:columbus.futurists@gmail.com) [http://columbusfuturists.org](http://columbusfuturists.org/) [https://davidjstaley.substack.com/](https://davidjstaley.substack.com/) 

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

For January, we’re reading Migrations by Charlotte McConaghy. For fans of Flight Behavior and Station Eleven, a novel set on the brink of catastrophe, as a young woman chases the world's last birds--and her own final chance for redemption. Franny Stone has always been a wanderer. By following the ocean's tides and the birds that soar above, she can forget the losses that have haunted her life. But when the wild she loves begins to disappear, Franny can no longer wander without a destination. She arrives in remote Greenland with one purpose: to find the world's last flock of Arctic terns and track their final migration. She convinces Ennis Malone, captain of the Saghani, to take her onboard, winning over his eccentric crew with promises that the birds will lead them to fish. As the Saghani fights its way south, Franny's dark history begins to unspool. Battered by night terrors, accumulating a pile of unsent letters, and obsessed with pursuing the terns at any cost, Franny is full of secrets. When her quest threatens the safety of the entire crew, Franny must ask herself what she is really running toward--and running from. Propelled by a narrator as fierce and fragile as the terns she is following, Charlotte McConaghy's Migrations is both an ode to our threatened world and a breathtaking page-turner about the lengths we will go for the people we love.