Cultural Activities
Meet other local people interested in Cultural Activities: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Cultural Activities group.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out cultural activities events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the cultural activities events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find cultural activities events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Cultural Activities Events Today
Join in-person Cultural Activities events happening right now
Drinks and Games ๐บ๐ฒ
What's up Friends! ๐
Let's meet at Le Pantin for another round of games and laughs.
Special theme: light strategy games (Catan ๐๐ชต๐พ or similar).
Games: ๐ฒ The pub has a fair collection of games. Feel free however to bring any of your own favorites.
Food & Drinks: Le Pantin serves only drinks๐ธ๐บ๐น, however youโre also welcome to bring your own snacks ๐๐ฉ๐ฟ to enjoy during the games.
Ordering: ๐ค At least one drink is mandatory - this is how we support cool places like this!
Timing: โฑ๏ธ We kick off at 14:00, and youโre welcome to stay for as many games as you like. Joining later? Just let me know in advance in the chat so we donโt slow down the start ๐
๐ฆIf you find yourself on the waiting list but you absolutely want to join or if you have any other question - feel free to contact me directly via the chat.
๐ข Further details may be shared via the group chat or via DM ๐ฌ. Make sure to check your messages ๐ at least on the day before the event to avoid missing any mega important ๐ announcements.
๐โโฌ The Friends Code:
๐ Which games are played will be agreed by the group
๐Depending on preferences and group size we usually split into several tables
๐ Got a favorite game? Bring it along or drop a suggestion in your reply
๐ Can't make it? Cancel on time so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot
๐ Don't show up (or show up at your own risk:) if you are on the waiting list. There may be no space for extra players and you risk to get disappointed.
See you folks ๐
Trollenbos โ Provincial Park De Schorre
Hello, beautiful people!
For my last walk as organizer, I want to see the trolls. Last time we went for this walk, we couldn't see all the trolls and the terrain was a bit more adventurous than many of us preferred, so this time the goal is here: easier walk and let's see as many trolls as possible.
https://www.komoot.com/tour/2228140765
Komoot says that a segment is highly dangerous, from my exploration on Google Maps and previous experience it doesn't seem so, but if something looks anyhow dangerous, we'll skip it.
The usual rules apply:
* We wait for 5 minutes after the starting time if no one has announced they will be late.
* If someone has informed us they will be late, we wait up to 15 minutes after the starting time.
* The location of the group is shared in the WhatsApp group for approximately 45-50 minutes after the starting time for those arriving more than 15 minutes late.
* To ensure everyone feels comfortable, and since some walking paths may not be dog-friendly, we kindly ask that you do not bring dogs or other pets.
* Walks may be canceled due to forecasted heavy rain or temperatures above 30ยฐC or below 5ยฐC. A final decision will be made by 10 AM on the day of the walk.
**Whatsapp group**: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ) (only for members who have attended at least one event or after contacting the organizer)
Mir Language Coffee
Join us this Sunday for a relaxed and welcoming gathering where conversations bring people together.
This event is all about connection: getting to know each other, sharing ideas, and exchanging conversations in different languages. Whether youโre fluent or just curious, everyone is welcome.
We offer a cozy, safe space where people can feel comfortable to open up, meet new friends, and enjoy a warm atmosphere โ all while sipping delicious coffee.
Letโs have a coffee, talk, laugh, share opinions, and discover how different languages and cultures can unite us.
Come as you are, leave with new connections. โโจ
Family concert
*\*free entry for children under 3yo.*
## Sunday mornings made magical
Spend your Sunday morning with music, croissants, and family fun!
Enjoy a kid-friendly program in a relaxed setting.
Little ones can listen, play and color while you enjoy beautiful live music together.
### **PROGRAM:**
> CLASSICAL Florie Emond (soprano) & Juliette Gauthier (harp)
### [Cultural Creative Corner](https://www.culturalcreativecorner.com/organiser/cultural-creative-corner/ "Cultural Creative Corner")
[View Organiser Website](https://www.culturalcreativecorner.com/)
events@cccorner.info
For more information and registrations: https://www.culturalcreativecorner.com/events/family-concert-2601-2/
Wanted: Meetup Event Hosts
Are you someone who is local (or a westerner who has lived in the city for a while, understand the local culture and speak the local language) and are confident when meeting new people of different backgrounds and cultures?
Weโre looking for a lively friendly host to manage some of our weekly Fastfriends meetups in your city.
As a host, your role would be to:
โจ Welcome members and make them feel comfortable
โจ Encourage conversations and help people connect
\- direct and manage our fastfriending socialising format
โจ Keep the energy positive and the fast friending event flowing smoothly
\- manage the event relationship with the venue
What is in it for you?
\- this is a volunteer role but we give you an expense allowance to cover some of your expenses\.
\- โ you get exposure to the local and international community and can make a positive contribution
\- โ you get experience with meeting new people\,running social events and managing groups\.
We would love to hear from you. Please write a quick message to Dan at โช+44 7715705005โฌ and let's chat.
Japanese Conversation / ๆฅๆฌ่ช/่ฑ่ชไผ่ฉฑไบคๆต @BXL
**PLEASE READ THE ATTENDANCE POLICY (below) IF IT'S YOUR FIRST TIME**
**SUNDAY COFFEE & JAPANESE CONVERSATION**
ๆฅๆๆฅใฎใณใผใใผ๏ผๆฅๆฌ่ชไผ่ฉฑ
Our "Japanese/English Conversation Exchange" offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Japanese culture and language, all while helping native Japanese members to learn their target language.
็งใใกใฎใๆฅๆฌ่ช/่ฑ่ชไผ่ฉฑไบคๆตใใฏใๆฅๆฌใฎๆๅใจ่จ่ชใฎไธ็ใซๆฒก้ ญใใชใใใใใคใใฃใใฎๆฅๆฌไบบใกใณใใผใ่ฑ่ชใใใฉใณใน่ชใใพใใฏใชใฉใณใ่ชใๅญฆใถใฎใๆๅฉใใใใฆใใผใฏใชๆฉไผใๆไพใใพใใ
**Date: /** ๆฅไป๏ผ**(almost) every Sunday**
**Time: /** ๆ้๏ผ**from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm**
**Location: /** ๅ ดๆ๏ผ**Cafe Caberdouche - Place de la Libertรฉ 8, 1000 Bruxelles**
**Venue Note: /** ไผๅ ดใฎๆณจๆ๏ผ**The manager of the cafe kindly accepted us to book a table on a regular basis. To thank him for his kindness, please order AT LEAST ONE DRINK**. ใซใใงใฎใใใผใธใฃใผใ่ฆชๅใซใ็งใใกใซๅฎๆ็ใซใใผใใซใไบ็ดใใใใจใๆฟ่ซพใใฆใใ ใใใพใใใใใฎ่ฆชๅใซๆ่ฌใฎๆใ็คบใใใใซใๅฐใชใใจใ1ๆฏใฎใใชใณใฏใๆณจๆใใฆใใ ใใใ
**Location Assistance: /** ๅ ดๆใฎๆกๅ
๏ผ**If you can't find us, ask one of the waiters. They know where we are :) You can also send us a message.**
็งใใกใ่ฆใคใใใใชใๅ ดๅใฏใใฆใงใคใฟใผใฎไธไบบใซๅฐใญใฆใใ ใใใๅฝผใใฏ็งใใกใใฉใใซใใใ็ฅใฃใฆใใพใ :) ใกใใปใผใธใ้ใฃใฆใใใ ใใพใใ
**Event Agenda: /** ใคใใณใใฎใขใธใงใณใ๏ผ
* **4:00 PM - 6:00 PM: JAPANESE CONVERSATION** \- Join us for the Japanese conversation and cultural exploration\. Beginners are welcome / ๆฅๆฌ่ชไผ่ฉฑ \- ๆๅใฎ30ๅใฏๆฅๆฌ่ชใฎไผ่ฉฑใจๆๅๆขๆฑใซๅ
ใฆใใใฆใใพใใๅๅฟ่
ใ่ใใ ใใงใๆญ่ฟใงใใ30ๅๅพใซๅๅ ใใฆใๆงใใพใใใๅค่จ่ชไบคๆ \- ใใซใฎใผใฎๅคๆงๆงใไฝ้จใใใใคใใฃใใฎๆฅๆฌไบบใกใณใใผใ่ฑ่ชใใใฉใณใน่ชใใพใใฏใชใฉใณใ่ชใๅญฆใณใใใจ็ฑๅฟใซๅพ
ใฃใฆใใพใใใใพใใพใช่จ่ชใง็ฐๆๅไบคๆตใฎไผ่ฉฑใซๅๅ ใใพใใใใ็งใใกใฎๆฅๆฌใฎๅไบบใซใใซใฎใผใฎๆๅใไผ็ตฑใ็ๆดปใ็ดนไปใใพใใใใ
* **6:00 PM: EVENT CONCLUSION** \- Please respect the event's start and end times to maximize your language exchange opportunities\. Your participation and enthusiasm are appreciated\! ใคใใณใใฎ็ตไบ \- ใคใใณใใฎ้ๅงๆ้ใจ็ตไบๆ้ใๅฐ้ใใฆใ่จ่ชไบคๆใฎๆฉไผใๆๅคง้ใซๆดป็จใใฆใใ ใใใๅๅ ใจ็ฑๆใซๆ่ฌใใพใ๏ผ
**Attendance Policy: --->** ไปฅไธใฎๆฅๆฌ่ช
* We're excited to have you join our events and appreciate your commitment to learning and growing together. To ensure a productive and enjoyable experience for all participants, please take note of our attendance policy:
1. **Punctuality:** Please arrive on time for scheduled events. Late arrivals can disrupt the flow of the event and may miss important information.
2. **Language Commitment:** If you sign up for language-specific sessions, such as Japanese conversation or language exchange, we kindly request your commitment to actively participate in that language for the designated duration.
3. **Respect:** Treat fellow participants, organizers, and cafe staff with respect and courtesy. Harassment or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.
4. **Removal Policy:** A participant who is not respectful towards other members will be removed from the group and blocked, with no warning. This point is not negotiable.
5. **Cancellation:** If you are unable to attend an event you've registered for, please let us know as soon as possible. This helps us plan accordingly and allows others to take your place if there's a waitlist.
6. **No-Show Policy:** Three no-shows (failing to attend without prior notice) may result in restrictions on event registration to ensure fairness to other participants.
By attending our events, you agree to adhere to these guidelines. We aim to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can learn and connect. Thank you for being part of our community!
**ๅบๅธญใใชใทใผ๏ผ**
็งใใกใฏใใคใใณใใซๅๅ ใใฆใใใ ใใใใจใๆฅฝใใฟใซใใฆใใใ็ใใใไธ็ทใซๅญฆใณๆ้ทใใใใจใซๅใ็ตใใงใใใ ใใใใจใๆ่ฌใใฆใใพใใใในใฆใฎๅๅ ่
ใ็็ฃ็ใงๆฅฝใใ็ต้จใใใใใใซใๅบๅธญใใชใทใผใซใ็ๆใใ ใใ๏ผ
1. ๆ้ๅณๅฎ๏ผไบๅฎใใใใคใใณใใซใฏๆ้้ใใซใ่ถใใใ ใใใ้
ๅปใฏใคใใณใใฎๆตใใไนฑใใ้่ฆใชๆ
ๅ ฑใ่ฆ้ใๅฏ่ฝๆงใใใใพใใๆฅๆฌ่ชใฎใฟใฎใปใใทใงใณใฏๅๅพ4ๆใๅ
จ่จ่ชใฎใปใใทใงใณใฏๅๅพ4ๆ30ๅ้ๅงใงใใ
2. ่จ่ชใธใฎใณใใใใกใณใ๏ผๆฅๆฌ่ชไผ่ฉฑใ่จ่ชไบคๆใชใฉใ็นๅฎใฎ่จ่ชใฎใปใใทใงใณใซ็ป้ฒใใใๅ ดๅใฏใใใฎ่จ่ชใงใฎ็ฉๆฅต็ใชๅๅ ใใ้กใใใพใใ
3. ๅฐ้๏ผไปใฎๅๅ ่
ใไธปๅฌ่
ใใซใใงใฎในใฟใใใซใฏๆฌๆใจ็คผๅใใใฃใฆๆฅใใฆใใ ใใใๅซใใใใ่ฟทๆ่ก็บใฏ่จฑๅฎนใใใพใใใ
4. ้ๅ ดใใชใทใผ๏ผไปใฎใกใณใใผใซๅฏพใใฆๆฌๆใๆใใชใๅๅ ่
ใฏใ่ญฆๅใชใใซใฐใซใผใใใๅ้คใใใใใญใใฏใใใพใใใใฎใใคใณใใฏไบคๆธใฎไฝๅฐใใใใพใใใ
5. ใญใฃใณใปใซ๏ผ็ป้ฒใใใคใใณใใซๅๅ ใงใใชใๅ ดๅใฏใใงใใใ ใๆฉใใ็ฅใใใใ ใใใใใใซใใใไปใฎไบบใใใชใใฎไปฃใใใๅใใใจใใงใใพใใ
6. ใใผใทใงใผใใชใทใผ๏ผไบๅใฎ้็ฅใชใใซ3ๅใฎใใผใทใงใผ๏ผๆฌ ๅธญ๏ผใใใๅ ดๅใฏใไปใฎๅๅ ่
ใซๅ
ฌๅนณใซใชใใใใคใใณใใฎ็ป้ฒใซๅถ้ใใใใๅ ดๅใใใใพใใ ็งใใกใฎใคใใณใใซๅๅ ใใใใจใงใใใใใฎใฌใคใใฉใคใณใซๅพใใใจใซๅๆใใใใฎใจใใพใใ็งใใกใฏใฟใชใใใๅญฆใณใใคใชใใใใจใใงใใใใใซๆญ่ฟใใใๅ
ๆฌ็ใช็ฐๅขใไฝใๅบใใใจใ็ฎๆใใฆใใพใใใณใใฅใใใฃใฎไธ้จใจใใฆใๅๅ ใใใ ใใใใใใจใใใใใพใ๏ผ
**Note: Please stay tuned to our event page for updates and schedule changes. We can't wait to see you there and exchange languages, cultures, and stories!**
ๅ่๏ผๆดๆฐใในใฑใธใฅใผใซใฎๅคๆดใซใคใใฆใฏใใคใใณใใใผใธใใ่ฆงใใ ใใใใใใง็ใใใซใไผใใใฆใ่จ่ชใๆๅใ็ฉ่ชใไบคๆใงใใใฎใๆฅฝใใฟใซใใฆใใพใ๏ผ
HIDDEN GEMS IN THE MAROLLES
Join us on Sunday, 8 February 2026 for a relaxed Photoresk photo walk through the Marolles, Brusselsโ most characterful quarter. Weโll meet at 11:15 at Place du Jeu de Balle, explore lesserโknown corners and textures, then visit at least one exhibition linked to the PhotoBrussels Festival. Weโll wrap with lunch in the Marolles (vegetarian option available), with Matonge as a backup lunch zone.
**Plan**
* 11:15 Meet at Place du Jeu de Balle โ entrance of the church Maria Immaculata.
* Hiddenโgems walk: flea market, Rue Haute/Rue Blaes, murals and courtyards.
* Exhibition: one PhotoBrussels Festival venue
* Lunch: Marolles bistro/cafรฉ; one vegetarian option guaranteed.
* Public transport only; short, frequent hops; mostly walking.
**Whoโs coming**
* Brussels and members traveling from Heerlen (NL), Cologne, Luxembourg, and elsewhere (primarily by train). Aim to arrive BrusselsโCentral 10:30โ10:45. See also [Photoresk.com ](https://photoresk.com/events/photoresk-brussels-hidden-gems-in-the-marolles/)
**What to bring**
* Compact kit, comfortable shoes with grip, rain/wind shell, and a sense of curiosity for โhidden gems.โ Nonโflash museum etiquette.
**Weather plan**
* Weโll adapt for rain/wind/cold with covered routes and indoor photo options (churches, galleries, arcades). Final go/modify/pivot posted on the morning.
**RSVP**
* Please RSVP early and update if your plans change. If you have dietary/access needs, tell us by Friday so we can coordinate lunch and access with venues.
**Notes**
* PhotoBrussels Festival Sunday hours differ by venue; we will verify weekโof. Place du Jeu de Balle flea market is active mornings (ends \~14:00). Many shops in the Marolles have variable Sunday opening; weโll treat browsing as a bonus.
Cultural Activities Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sunday Pool Evening + Language Exchange +Pizza
A relaxed pool night and language exchange for curious, open-minded people in Brussels. Pool, drinks, and real conversation without the fake networking vibe.
This is **not** a tournament and not a โwatch one guy run the tableโ event. We rotate games, mix people, and keep it social.
Use our whatsapp Chat also to RSVP and updates!
https://chat.whatsapp.com/F2hTxZ4TT3hHICiihX1Efy
### **What to expect**
* Casual pool
* Rotations so everyone plays
* **Language exchange**: EN/FR/NL/ES/IT (and whatever else shows up)
Switch languages anytime, no pressure
### **Food**
The venue is right next to **Deaโs Pizza**. During the night, feel free to grab a takeaway pizza and **eat it at Taverne Magnolia**.
### **Cost**
* Everyone pays their own drinks and table time
* If we share tables, we split costs fairly (1 game 1 Euro)
### **Safety and respect policy (non-negotiable)**
Weโve had reports of creeps at other Brussels meetups bothering women. That does not happen at our events.
* The host will actively keep an eye on the vibe, especially **womenโs comfort and safety**
* **No harassment, no sexual comments, no persistent flirting after a โno,โ no invasive questions, no following people around**
* If someone feels unsafe or uncomfortable, go to the host directly. The host will intervene.
### **Meet point**
Meet inside near the pool tables at **Taverne Magnolia**. If youโre late, post in the event chat so rotations donโt start without you.
Indoors Volleyball!
Join the only indoor volleyball meetup in Brussels โ play, move, and meet new people! ๐
๐ **Every Sunday morning**
๐ **Level:** Beginner โ Intermediate / Intermediate
๐ถ **โฌ10** per person (2h session)
Sunday Gathering - connect with community in Brussels
**Gathering in community is an essential part of being human.** When we sing, share, play, dance, hold rituals, eat togetherโฆ We move beyond dogma. The Gathering is about the simple yet radical choice to gently ease open our hearts and trust the voice of love to guide the way.
* REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/Szo2ffdEs5ti147P9
Many of us have become isolated in our spiritual journeys, atomised by our individual interests, unaware of the mycelial network that connects us and the abundance of resources available to help us flourish.
**The Gathering is about remembering the sacredness of life, our belonging in a wider community and that our soul-given gifts are designed to be lived and shared.**
The Gathering takes place in Brussels once or twice a month on a Sunday afternoon. Starting with a **singing circle** and a moment of **contemplation**, participants then choose between **practices exploring different aspects of connection - to self, to other, and to life**. We finish the afternoon together with a **potluck meal**.
* REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/Szo2ffdEs5ti147P9
* VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO >>> https://bit.ly/4iFjoiU
**\*\~\*\~\*\~\*\~\*\~PRACTICAL INFO\~\*\~\*\~\*\~\*\~\***
**{ TIMING }**
* \~ Please arrive between 13:45-14:15 so we can start together. The doors will close promptly at 14:15.
* \~ The circle and activities will last until 18:00, so please make sure you are able to be present until then.
* \~ Everyone is welcome to stay afterwards to share food until 19:00.
**{ BRING }**
* \~ a meditation cushion or a pillow (there is nothing provided in the space!)
* \~ your water bottle
* \~ clothes you can move comfortably in
* \~ a blanket, warm socks and/or sweater (optional, if you easily get cold)
* \~ a yoga mat (optional, for extra cushioning)
* \~ food to share (optional, for potluck)
**{ ACCESSIBILITY }**
* \~ The event will be mainly in English, but some practices may be proposed in other languages.
* \~ Children are very welcome! There will be at least one children-friendly practice available.
* \~ The space is wheelchair-accessible, although for practical reasons please indicate it on the registration form.
**{ GIFT MODEL }**
The Gathering is experimenting with a gift model, meaning that everyone is invited to contribute as they can.
Gifts can take many different forms. Time, energy, experience, food, knowledge, wealth, skills, creativity, loveโฆ This does not mean that money is ignored. There are costs associated with renting the space and money is needed in order to further develop the project.
**We will ask participants during the afternoon to contribute consciously and according to their means. However, money should not prevent anyone who wants to join, to be able to join.**
How would you like to contribute? There are infinite ways to share your gifts, from helping with the costs, to helping with the set up, to guiding a practice, to cooking a group meal... And if you donโt feel like you are able to contribute anything right now, you are still welcome.
* REGISTER HERE: https://forms.gle/Szo2ffdEs5ti147P9
* VISIT THE WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO >>> https://bit.ly/4iFjoiU
Sunday Bracelet Making ๐ Relax, Create & Connect
Take some time for yourself this Sunday and unwind before the busy week ahead!
Join us at Cafรฉ Recup for a beginner-friendly bracelet-making session. All materials are provided, just bring your creativity and a smile ๐
Each Sunday weโll try a different craft, so thereโs always something new to make and enjoy โบ๏ธ
This meetup is a chance to meet new people, craft, and recharge (we all know that feeling of Sunday evening anxiety, and this is a fun way to keep your mind off the Sunday scaries! ๐)
โ๏ธ Enjoy a tea or coffee while you work, and leave with a handmade bracelet to take home.
Fee: โฌ5 per person (covers materials and the Meetup page)
Spots limited to 6-8 people
Cinema Aventure : Brussels Independent Film Festival
**Cinema Aventure : Brussels Independent Film Festival**
08/02 @ 17h00
**Inferior Shadows + Short **
This screening session includes 1 short film + 1 feature film. Total running time approx. 95 minutes. All selected films are in English and/or have English subtitles.
Shifting Roots (Lebanon) by Angie Mrad
Running time: 00:08:30
Inferior Shadows (Iran) by Ramin Khalighi
Parvin and Rasoul, a young couple, left their small town for the big city to find work and a better life. Parvinโs younger brother, Amir Ali, is also living with them as a guest. This family, all three struggling with addiction and forced into scavenging, recounts their story. We witness their daily struggle for survival and their attempts to escape the swamp in which they've become trapped.
[Cinema Aventure](https://www.brusselsfilmfestival.org/events/sunday-7-feb-17-00-brussels-independent-film-festival-cinema-aventure)
**For Dreamers, Coffee shots, Orezza, eau de Saint-Georges !**
Walk in nature- Rouge Cloitre- Hermann Debroux
Faisons une randonnรฉe au rouge cloitre!Let's have a walk in the nature of Rouge Cloitre.
Our meeting point will be a the entrance of metro herrmann debroux near a big "Loxam" red sign. We are 1 minute away from Avenue Herrmann Debroux, 1. 1160 Auderghem.
Our Walk will be about 5,5 km and will last about 2 hours and we will come back at our meeting point.
after the walk for those who want we can have a drink.
Apres la marche pour ceux qui le veulent npus irons boire un verre
Any question? Des questions
here is our whatsapp group
https://chat.whatsapp.com/IXERRBKunuc7csq1qQRpmh
Cultural Activities Events Near You
Connect with your local Cultural Activities community
Trails & Valentines! Quarry Trails Metro Park / Johnnie's Tavern
***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails**
[Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space.
In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration.
The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours.
Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks.
Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city.
***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day**
The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269โ270 AD.
The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era.
Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection.
***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park**
Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg).
***(She loves me not.)* Summary**
For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way.
***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet**
Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event.
Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't.
We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going.
***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains**
There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails.
***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike**
Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.
Columbus Code & Coffee 83 @ Improving
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!
Sunday Morning Coffee at The Roosevelt Coffeehouse
Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing.
They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.
Sunday at Highbanks Metro Park
We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40ยฐ09'06.6"N 83ยฐ02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line).
We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews).
The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon.
**How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:**
If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park).
Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.
"The Philosophy of Alan Watts" Film on a 360 Degree Dome Theater at COSI!
Let's check out a Popular Astronomy and Science Based Film at COSI Science Center on their HUGE 360 Degree 4K Spherical Dome Screen Theater, in which is touring the nation and has already sold over 10,000 tickets!
COSI is one of the leading Science Centers in America. Alan Watts was one of the Most Influential Amateur Astronomers of the 20th Century and held fascinating views of the Galaxy.
Tickets are only $33 plus a small fee and taxes and can be purchased here:
[Trust the Universe: Immersive Dome Show](https://www.sphericalpictures.com/tickets)
PLEASE purchase tickets for the 8:15 PM Feature on Friday, February 13. There seem to be at least 10 tickets left, possibly more. We should be able to sit together in the same row or at least in the general section.
This is an exciting chance to view actual footage of the Solar System on a Large 4k Resolution Screen plus added in Cosmological and Astronomical Related Philosophy!
We will plan on meeting at about 7:50 PM by the Atomic Cafe on the first Floor of COSI, where the Movie Theater is located, in order to give us time before the show starts to purchase refreshments.
Parking is available at the COSI Garage and in the area on side streets and adjacent garages. We can also walk somewhere in the area and get food afterwards, if anyone wants to do so.
Thanks and hope to see you come out!
Meet us at the Brazilian Grill & Bakery!
Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening afternoon of language, culture, food, of course, and connections!
(Everyone will individually choose from the buffet and pay for their own meal, by weight.)
FREE Pizza Social at our KIND MEALS meeting at Mikey's Late Night Slice!
Our group, KIND MEALS, will be picking up the tab for pizzas, at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT SLICE, on Sunday, February 8th from 12-2pm.
We will be trying out MIKEY'S Vegan Fake-ass BBQ Chick'n pizza and Vegan Fake-ass Pepperoni pizza, as well as some other special vegan pizzas that are served there. All the vegan pizzas are covered with Selfish Cow vegan cheese.
The pizza is free, drinks on your own.
Join us to learn more about **[KIND MEALS](https://kindmealscolumbus.org)** (a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Cols. Ohio, providing hunger relief services to those in need).
All of the food we serve is fresh and vegan!
If you love working with community, being of service, looking to hang with some fun like-minded people, and just love to socialize on a Sunday afternoon, join us for some FREE vegan pizzas at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT on 4th and Main. Mikey said the more the merrier!






























