Cultural Activities

⚠️NOTE: The venue is at the top of the bar's stairs.⚠️ Hey there! 👋 Are you passionate about exploring different cultures and connecting with people from all over the world? 🌎✈️ Join our vibrant international community where curious minds come together for some amazing cultural exchange! Our meetups are perfect for anyone who wants to dive into diverse perspectives, have authentic conversations, and build genuine friendships with people from around the globe. 🌍🤝 Whether you're looking to broaden your horizons, practice a new language naturally, or just love meeting people from different walks of life, you'll find like-minded individuals ready to share and learn together. Get ready for interactive sessions where cultural discovery takes center stage! 🎭 Connect with fellow cultural explorers in a welcoming environment that celebrates diversity, fosters understanding, and creates authentic connections. 🎉 We host events across multiple platforms with 30-50 regular participants, and during our peak meetups, we often grow to 60+ people! 🙌 Come join the fun! 👉 **Guidelines for an enriching experience:** * 🍺🥤 Please order a drink upon arrival to support the venue (Required) * 🧹 Show respect for venue staff and maintain cleanliness * 🤝 Embrace courtesy and mutual respect * 🌍 Our focus is on meaningful cultural exchange and understanding - we're here to learn from each other's perspectives and experiences Please note: Venue staff and organizers reserve the right to exclude participants who don't follow these guidelines. We're committed to maintaining a positive environment where everyone can enjoy meaningful connections and cultural exchange opportunities. 🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹🔸🔹 It’s not mandatory, but we are kindly asking for a warm donation of 1€ or more to help cover the cost of posting on meetup.com. If you enjoy the event atmosphere, we’d really appreciate your support🤗 [https://www.paypal.me/harinezumi928](https://www.paypal.me/harinezumi928) If there's a fee for the transfer, you're also welcome to give the donation in cash directly to the organizer on the day:)

**🎫 RSVP ≠ ticket.** A paid ticket is required to attend. 🔗 On your phone and can't click? Click the link in the **comments** :) **[🎟️ Sign up here to grab your ticket 🎟️](https://luma.com/ftst4berlin)** We are back in Berlin for **our fourth event of the new year!** **📦 WHAT'S THIS ABOUT?** FTST is a **one-of-a-kind social experience** where strangers come together for an afternoon of meaningful, fun, and deep conversation. It’s also a different & cool way of meeting new people by getting a bit out of your comfort zone and skipping the small talk! Join us for **games**, **talks**, and **connections** with **friends you haven’t met yet**. Join if you get annoyed after being asked what you do, where you are from, and how long you've been in Berlin every single time you meet someone. If you feel that there are better questions in life, this is the place for you. 🙌 **📓 HOW DOES IT WORK?** We start with a short & sweet intro talk followed by a few light-hearted group games to warm up. After that, we split you up into small groups and start with the conversation rounds (with 3-4 people). We'll have awesome question cards that will guide the flow of the conversation. You’ll never have to speak in public if you don’t want to. **🕹 HOW TO JOIN?** **[Take 1 minute to sign up 👈](https://luma.com/ftst4berlin)** 🔗 On your phone and can't click? Click the link in the **comments** :) Our events are **limited to 30 handpicked guests** to ensure a cozy atmosphere. We aim to curate events with similar age and gender groups *wherever possible.* If you're invited you'll receive a confirmation within 48 hours via Luma (our ticketing platform) ***Can't make it/event sold out?*** *[Sign up here](https://epicllama.myflodesk.com/berlin) and we'll let you know about the next one 😎* **🧧 HOW MUCH IS IT?** The cost to attend is **15€-18€** and includes the following: ⏰ 3 hours of facilitated and curated activities 🍎 Light snacks to keep the energy going (only if outdoors) 👥 A space to meet new people in the least boring way possible 💛 Supporting our mission to spread human connection events around the world *(🎫 also includes those annoying ticket fees!)* **🌳 WHERE IS IT?** We host our events in awesome bars & parks across the city. *We only **reveal the location** to ticket holders **24 hours** before.* **💛 WHAT THEY SAY** 🗣 “Great way to connect with people in a more meaningful way. Get to the heart of the matter, dive straight into what really counts!” - Matthias 🗣 “F\*ck the Small Talk changes the narrative from "Where are you from?" to "When was the last time you laughed uncontrollably?" and I think that's beautiful.” - Monika 🗣 “I loved F\*ck the Small Talk, I was a little bit nervous at first but they are pros at making you feel comfortable with the rest of the group, the activities are really fun and I enjoyed every second (consider that the one who's saying this is very, very shy). Give it a try!” - Brenda 🗣 "It’s a wonderful experience, it’s like being a kid again, when you were at the park, playing with other kids, and just decided you were going to be best friends for the next hours. Maybe you’ll never see those kids again. But that hour was amazing because you both opened up and trusted each other." - Sara [Check out our 130+ Google reviews here](https://www.google.com/maps/place/EPIC+LLAMA/@29.4255256,-41.3746386,3z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x0:0xf758abc88e22289c!8m2!3d29.4255256!4d-41.3746386?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiAydX55IP9AhWWQjABHejpCCkQ_BJ6BAhWEAg&coh=164777&entry=tt&shorturl=1)[ ](https://goo.gl/maps/TpZy77bfPFkGoikn7)💛 *(these are real humans, we promise!)* **🤓 FAQ** **• What's the age range?** Most people who come to our events are between 24 and 40 years old. But everyone is welcome to attend! (it's just a reference) **• Can I come alone?** Of course, we encourage it :) **• Can I be late?** Please don't! Late arrivals will disrupt the floooooooow. **• I signed up but never got an invite. Why?** We get a high volume of sign-ups yet we can only invite around 30 people. Please try again next time if do not receive an invite - no hard feelings 💛 **• Why do you charge?** We value our time and put a lot of love, planning, and effort into creating & designing these experiences. ♥️ This is our project/business and what we give to the world and we think everything should be a fair exchange! 🎈 However, money should never be the reason for people not to attend. If you can’t afford it send us a message! **• Can I bring my pet llama?** 100% yes, any *well-behaved* pets are highly encouraged as long as you can still focus on connecting with the humans around you! Especially llamas. Please confirm with us beforehand. **• Can I get a refund if I can't make it?** Unfortunately, we do not offer refunds. However, feel free to pass on your ticket to a friend or consider coming to the next edition. [and let us know]! 𝘾𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨, 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙. ✨ \* Location is only revealed to ticket holders! 🙅‍♀️📱This event is a no-phone experience. 🙅‍♀️📱 We started in Berlin back in 2019 and there are now chapters in 11 cities around the world including Mexico City, Lisbon, Vancouver, Malta, Zurich, and London! 🗺️ \*\*\* Follow us on[ Instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/epic.llama/)👈 Our [website 👈](https://epicllama.com/fuckthesmalltalk)

A playful creative workshop where we turn everyday materials and old clothes into something new. Each week we explore a different idea: cutting, painting, experimenting with colours, or transforming old garments into fun new creations. Using simple materials and a lot of imagination, we discover how small changes can make something ordinary become something special again. No big experience is needed — just curiosity and a willingness to try. Some workshops only need scissors, others invite you to paint, experiment or invent your own designs. Bring something old that you would like to transform, wear clothes that can get messy, and come create with us! Every workshop is a little different — but creativity, playfulness and surprises are always included. Check every Wednesday which workshop is going on! donation based all ages are wellcome ! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Ein spielerischer Kreativ-Workshop, in dem wir Alltagsmaterialien und alte Kleidung in etwas Neues verwandeln. Jede Woche entdecken wir eine andere Idee: schneiden, malen, mit Farben experimentieren oder alte Kleidung in neue Lieblingsstücke verwandeln. Mit einfachen Materialien und viel Fantasie wird aus etwas Gewöhnlichem wieder etwas Besonderes. Vorkenntnisse sind nicht nötig — nur Neugier und Lust, etwas auszuprobieren. Manche Workshops brauchen nur eine Schere, andere laden zum Malen und Experimentieren ein. Bring etwas Altes mit, das du verwandeln möchtest, zieh Kleidung an, die auch mal schmutzig werden darf, und komm zum Kreativsein vorbei! Jede Woche ist anders — schau mittwochs vorbei und entdecke den aktuellen Workshop. auf Spendenbasis, ohne Anmeldung Alle Altersgruppen sind willkommen

**Berlin can be a tough nut to crack.** Sometimes you have your "one person" and you’re stuck in a bubble; other times, you’re the new kid on the block looking for your crew. This night is designed to break those bubbles and bridge the gap. "Bringing a friend? **Amazing.** Coming solo? **Also great.** \> Whether you’re rolling with your crew or flying solo\, you’re in the right place\. Our mission is to help you meet like-minded people and turn 'strangers' into 'Berlin besties.' **Friendly reminder**. Change ur attendance status if you cannot attend!

## DNA. presents ''SHUFFLE FUSION'' **A smooth Dance Style connected to Electronic Music** This workshop guides You through the numerous facets of shuffle movements and shows You how to connect them into choreographies. Lead by our two amazing community members & Your new Shuffle Teachers Marcel & Dani Ospina - talented shuffle teachers that started shuffling at a very young age and leads this class with his experience connected to a lifetime of passion. ‍ Wednesdays (weekly, regular)- Marcel & [Dani](https://www.instagram.com/daniospina20?igsh=bnBrM3BxY2xuNnll) ‍ ##### *Try something new and experience an energetic dance style full of passion and great rhythms.* See Us Soon. Love, Marcel, Dani & DNA. _________________________________ For more insights, follow us on IG: [@nightart.club](https://www.instagram.com/nightart.club) \*Members of Dair Night Art e.V. and Subscribers of DNA. Art GbR.

A 2.5 hours oil color - acrylics painting lesson. **About this course** This is a painting workshop with the goal of teaching people how to create paintings using either oil colors or acrylics. The total subject lessons consists of around **27 lessons** that last 2.5 hours each. You can join at any time during the course. On each lesson the first part will be about theory and exercise and the second one about canvas time. Each participant will have the chance to work on canvas and start making paintings as artworks. All materials are provided by us. Each lesson has a subject. We do not follow a particular order, and every lesson is actually unique and many times personalized. This means that every time the attendess will have to do something new and different. You do not have to paint on canvas and with the mentioned art materias, you can also choose to use any of your wish. Most of the observations and exercises work well with all art materials. It is suitable for beginners and or even professionals who want to rationalize the canvas painting process. It is being hosted by the visual artist [Miltos Despoudis](https://miltosdespoudis.gr/). **How much does it cost?** Check below: * 5 x Lessons Packet (2.5 hours each) cost **120€.** * First lesson try-out costs **17€**. You can do that only once. * 1 x Lesson (2.5 hours) costs **30€.** You can pay either by cash or card at the event. All of the materials are included within the ticket reservation **except the canvases.** You can paint anything on a canvas we will provide you free but if you want to keep the canvas you will have to purchase it at the same cost we bought it. Canvases range from 3 to 9 Euros. **How do I subscribe?** You need to reserve a spot here and come at the event. You can pay at the event. Please verify that you are attending so that we know and prepare accordingly with the art supplies. **What do I need?** Watercolors materials will be provided at the venue. You can also bring your own art supplies, it might be helpful to learn working with what you have. Keep in mind that working with colors might make your clothes dirty, but in general we try to be clean. **More Info** The workshop happens almost every Wednesday. Learn more about the watercolor lesson plan here: [https://creativesessions.art/workshops/painting-workshop/](https://creativesessions.art/workshops/painting-workshop/) **Refund Policy** On case by case scenario. If you paid for the tryout session we can refund up to one day before the event starts. If you paid for the lesson packet and used one of the tickets no refunds are possible.

Schwarze Küche: Ein Safer Space für Schwarz afrodiasporische Menschen Willkommen zu unserer ersten Veranstaltung der Reihe „Schwarze Küche: Ein Safer Space für Schwarz afrodiasporische Menschen“! Wir freuen uns sehr, eine Kochveranstaltung exklusiv für afro-Menschen zu veranstalten. Von 17 bis 21 Uhr kommen wir bei gutem Essen, in gemütlicher Runde, mit einer coolen Playlist und leckeren Getränken zusammen. Im Laufe des Abends kann jeder beim Kochen mitmachen, vielleicht ein neues Rezept lernen, aber ganz sicher neue, tolle Menschen kennenlernen. Für Kinder gibt es eine Ecke zum Spielen und Malen. (ab 10 Jahre alt dürfen Kinder nur in Anwesenheit UND mit Zustimmung ihrer Eltern mitkochen.) Wo: Roßbachstraße 6, 10829 Berlin Wann: 22.04.2026 17:00 bis 21:00 Uhr Wer kann teilnehmen? Dieser Raum ist als exklusiver sicherer Raum gedacht für schwarze Menschen, afro-diasporische Menschen (Karibik, Afro-Latinx, Afro-Araber...) und Menschen die Anti-Schwarz-Rassismus erleben. Jedes Geschlecht, jedes Alter, jede Religion... ist willkommen, und Kinder werden gemeinsam betreut. Barrierefreiheit: Bitte beachtet, dass unser Raum nicht rollstuhlgerecht ist und am Eingang zwei Stufen hat. EXKLUSIVER SICHERER RAUM: Dieser Raum ist als exklusiver sicherer Raum gedacht für schwarze Menschen, afro-diasporische Menschen (Karibik, Afro-Latinx, Afro-Araber...) und Menschen die Anti-Schwarz-Rassismus erleben. Jedes Geschlecht, jedes Alter, jede Religion... ist willkommen, und Kinder werden gemeinsam betreut. Black Kitchen: a safer space for black afrodiasporic people Welcome to our first event of the series Black Kitchen: a safer space for black afrodiasporic people! We are very happy to host a cooking event exclusively for afro-people. From 5 to 9 pm we will come together around food, good company, a nice playlist and some delicious drinks. During the evening everyone will get to participate in the cooking, maybe learn new recipe but surely meet new beautiful people. For children there will be a corner to play and draw. ( the children will not be invited to cook without the presence AND the consent of their parent.s). Where : Roßbachstr 6 10829 Berlin When: 22.04.2026 5pm till 9pm Who can join? This space is meant as an exclusive safer space for black people, afro diasporic people ( caraib, afro-latinx, afro arabs...) and people who experience anti-black racism. Every gender, age, religion... is welcome and children will be collectively taken care of. Accessibility: Beware that our space isn't wheelchair accessible and has 2 steps at the entrance. EXCLUSIVE SAFER SPACE: This space is meant as an exclusive safer space for black people, afro diasporic people ( caraib, afro-latinx, afro arabs...) and people who experience anti-black racism. Please consider your position before joining this event.

Meet up and join us this Saturday! Whether you're a long-time resident or just travelling through, come and meet new people to have fun, make new friends and enjoy your Saturday evening in a safe and welcoming environment at one of Berlins fantastic bars (and then there's always people who want to go to a club afterwards). This week we're heading for the first time to the fantabulous Mokka bar (see link to location). We always have several organisers there (male and female), so come say hello to us! We care to make sure that everyones enjoys themselves and we have **no tolerance for bad behaviour or creepiness.** **Follow us on Insta:** @siphappens.berlin **Join us on Telegram:** t.me/siphappens_berlin **👉 Other important notes:** \- 🍸 The locations we visit are bars and clubs\, they are businesses and we are able to keep these events free ONLY if people buy drinks\. Please respect the locations and the event by making purchases \- 🦹‍♂️ Remember to keep an eye on your belongings and prioritize your own well\-being\. We are not responsible for any lost items or personal issues\. \- 📷 By attending our events\, you consent to being photographed or filmed\. Photos and videos taken during the events may be shared on our social media\. If you do not wish to appear in the photos or if you appear in a photo that we post that you would like removed\, please send us a private message as soon as possible on Instagram \(@siphappens\.berlin\)

**Neue Leute kennenlernen, nette Gespräche & frische Luft. Am Sonntagnachmittag.** . **💶 2 Euro Gebühr (vor Ort, in bar)** . **🛑 Falls Du es nicht schaffst, sag bitte rechtzeitig ab.** 😊 **Zusagen sind bis kurz vor Beginn möglich. Ich freu mich Dich zu sehen.** . 👋🏼 Wir treffen uns an der [S-Bahn Station Treptower Park, am Hinterausgang Richtung Park (Link Google Maps)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/4kVsM838mCSftVPc9). . Wir machen eine kleine Vorstellungsrunde. Danach gehen wir los. . 💐 Wir laufen auf dem großen Uferweg entlang der Spree, vorbei am Vergnügungspark Plänterwald bi szum Ende des Plänterwalds. Dort kehren wir um, gehen zurück durch den Plänterwald um dann wieder das wunderschöne Spree-Ufer entlang zu laufen. 😊 Ich bereite ein paar Deep-Talk-Fragen vor, damit Ihr gut uns Gespräch kommt. Nach 15 bis 30 Minuten wird es die Anregung geben, den Gesprächspartner zu wechseln. . **💧 Empfehlungen:** * Bring etwas Wasser mit, falls Du durstig wirst (1 Liter) * Gegen Abend kann es kühler werden: Bring Dir etwas Warmes anzuziehen mit. . **👉 Rechtlicher Hinweis** Auch wenn wir uns als Gruppe treffen und ich einen schönen Weg für uns herausgesucht habe, **bist Du voll verantwortlich für Dich selbst**. . **👱🏼‍♂️ Mehr über Abenteuer Freundschaft** Ich bin Georg Preller. Ich habe Abenteuer Freundschaft gegründet, um Freundschaft zu erforschen. Mein Ziel: Mehr echte Freundschaften auf dieser Welt. . Auf Meetup findest Du zahlreiche Events zum Kennenerlenen oder um über Freundschaft zu lernen. . **👋🏽 Weitere Gruppen & Kontaktmöglichkeiten** . **✈ Telegram-Kanal: [t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft](http://t.me/abenteuer_freundschaft)** für Events, Workshops & Treffpunkte für neue Freundschaften . **✉ Freundschafts-Newsletter:** [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) Alle 4 Wochen das Neuste aus der Freundschaftsforschung; oft seltener, denn ich schreibe nur dann, wenn es wirklich etwas zu berichten gibt. . **🔥 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften** Seit 2020 forsche ich, was großartige Freundschaften wirklich ausmacht. Das Ergebnis ist das 30seitige eBook: "Die 6 Zutaten großartiger Freundschaften". Du erhältst das eBook zurzeit kostenlos mit der Anmeldung zum Newsletter: [https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/newsletter) **💯 Wie wird man Freunde in Berlin:** * [Freunde finden: Wie wird man Freunde?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/freunde-finden) * [Was ist Freundschaft?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/freunde-finden) * [Wie schnell wir man Freunde?](https://abenteuer-freundschaft.de/wie-schnell-entsteht-freundschaft)

The "classical" bookswap is simple: * We meet in a café and put the book(s) we brought down on the tables. * We browse and discuss the books with one another while sipping coffee or hot chocolate, or eating cake. * We write our names down on any books we’d like to take home (post-its and pens provided). * At the end of the evening, negotiate any books that are contended and take a new-to-you book home! Books/happiness shared are books/happiness multiplied! A Bookswap is 10 times better than a Book Club because you can talk about ALL the books instead of just one! This is a great way to give your books a new home and make room for new books: that book you feel guilty for not having read even though it's been sitting on your bedside table for the last 5 years, the book you liked but didn't love, the book you loved so much you want everyone to read it, the book you somehow own three copies of, that book you absolutely hated even though everyone else loves it, and so on. Moreover, you will meet fellow readers, get a new book or two, and several book recommendations. We’ve often had readers experience books they wouldn't normally buy and enjoy it. GROUP EXPECTATIONS for PLEASANT SWAPPING * Please bring a book! It's not that you bring one you take one, but do try your best to bring something. * Books stay on the tables, open for sharing, until you are ready to leave so that everyone can have a look. We are notably not first come first serve. Please wait until you are leaving to bag the book. * If two or more people want the only copy of a book, negotiate. Maybe one of you reads it first and then gives it to the others. Or perhaps they have found another book instead. Or leave it to fate and toss a coin. The best part: now you have found somebody whose taste you can really admire. In any case, please don't walk away with a book with several names on it without letting the others know. These negotiations are fun and easy, so don't shy away from a book because there's already a name on it, and feel free to put your name on as many books as you find interesting. It's not that you bring one you take one; you may take as many as you can negotiate. * Political discussions with consent: make sure the people you are talking to would like to have a political discussion with you. * Please respect this space as first and foremost a community for connecting readers over their love of books and reading, stories, and narratives of all sorts. Please be respectful of tastes and opinions. * If something is bothering you, please reach out to the organizers, and we'll do our best to resolve it. * Lastly, don't expect your book back. It will find a new home. If you love it, let it go. Major LANGUAGES (and genres) of this meetup: English, German, French, Spanish, Italian; Fiction, Non-Fiction, Serious Reading, Light Fun, “classics", Krimis, Booker winners, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Self-Help and more. You never know who can read what languages, and there's no accounting for taste. We are a delightful and international group of readers. We look forward to swapping with you!

What's a great way to **have fun**, **meet people** and **explore Berlin**? *Hint:* It's happening in **Prenzlauer Berg** on **Sun. April 26th**. *Answer:* The next **Quiz Walk!** Join a team, walk from clue to clue and answer ca. **15 questions** about music, sports, culture, movies/TV, history, geography, science etc.! ― It's a great way to **meet people** ― ― **Use your knowledge** and help your team **win** ― ― Get to know **a Berlin neighborhood** (Kiez) better at each event ― ― Learn exciting things at these **fun, interactive quizzes** ― ― Afterwards, **meet up to chat**, and find out the **answers** ― **How it works:** We meet at the corner of **Greifswalder Str. / Danziger Str.** (S-Bahn Greifswalder Str., M4/M10 - see **Start** below) and form **teams of 4** players. Then we **walk from clue to clue**. **Use teamwork** to answer the questions or **ask people for help**! See and answer the questions on one smartphone per team and **see your score** **as you play**! No rush – speed doesn't count. **Start:** **Danziger Str. 120, 10407 Berlin** Just 5 minutes from the S-Bahn ring at Greifswalder Str. and right on the M4 and M10 tram lines. We'll meet on the south side of Danziger Str., in front of the ***Willy Bresch*** pub and finish nearby. **Note:** Please bring a **2€** **donation** to cover the costs of organizing. And please be on time, as we leave the meeting point within 10 minutes. **Looking forward to seeing you!**

Usually we’re at Halford for this, but this time, come join us in Roderich! It’s a cozy bar near S + U Pankow. And we get to be the music, so come ready to suggest a song. Have you been looking for metalhead friends to jump in the pit with? Take the first step towards befriending others with the same interests as you; join the Berlin Metal Fanatics for our regular bar night! Meet new and old metal friends alike, have a great night of bonding, and maybe a story to tell. This is your kind of mixer if you're into metal **of any kind** -- we're not into gatekeeping, just good energy. Maybe you'll find some new concert buddies or someone who knows a free apartment with Anmeldung. What's important is having a great night together.

Hey Balkaneros! I’m so excited to announce that we’ll be dancing the night away once again at **Robert Šoko’s Balkan Beats DJ set**! Before the party, we’ll meet up for a relaxed chat and a drink to get into the vibe together at Eingang Zwei Bar - Mehringdamm 57. 🎟 Grab your tickets here: [https://www.tixforgigs.com/Event/71969](https://www.tixforgigs.com/Event/71969) See you on the dance floor! Ellenit P.S. Don't miss *Balkan Beats — An Oral History,* a must-read for every Balkan music lover! [https://balkanbeats-book.com/](https://balkanbeats-book.com/)

Join the aperture of the highly anticipated solo exhibition, "Neuer Glaube," by Japanese painter Ryo Kato. Located in Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf, this event brings together founders, Artists, art enthusiasts, new in Berlin, and people looking to make new meaningful connections. **When:** Friday, 24th April **Time:** 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Director’s Welcome at 7:15 PM) **Where:** Galerie SLP, Budapester Str. 48, 10787 Berlin **Evening Program** \- 6:30 PM: Exclusive Meet & Greet with Ryo Kato \(Early arrivals\) \- 7:00 PM: Doors Open & Drinks \- 7:15 PM: Welcome Note by Sara Perez\, Director of Galerie SLP \- 7:30 PM – 9 PM: Networking & Gallery Viewing RSVP is encourage. Please only register if you are certain you can attend. [ [REQUEST YOUR RSVP HERE](https://www.saralilyperez.com/so/31PrtwtzP?languageTag=en) ] Follow us on Instagram at [Galerie SLP](https://www.instagram.com/galerieslp/) for a sneak peek of the collection. We look forward to seeing you there.

Dodgeball is back again! If you’ve been wanting to come out, this is an easy one to join. We’ll be playing for about 1.5 to 2 hours, you do not need to bring any equipment, and no experience is needed. We use a specific set of rules and equipment to make the games run better and keep them fun for everybody, not just people who already know how to play. If it rains, the event will be canceled.

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!

We have never until now featured Zinfandel, the ubiquitous California grape with the Dublin Wine MeetUp Group. At its best Zinfandel, is rich, voluptuous, with great depth of red and blue fruits. Jammy and hedonistic are common descriptions Each person should bring one bottle of an quality Zinfandel wine; be creative and quality conscious, with some bottle age if possible. Turley, Martinelli, Biale, Seghesio, Ridge, Hartford Bedrock, Carlisle, Klinker Brick, Frog's Leap, and anything from the Rockpile vineyard is likely to be very good to great. The Prisoner wines began as a Zinfandel blend. Also bring a protein based appetizer to share and **a wine glass for your personal use.** Cheese and meats are best with these wines. There will be a gas grill behind the clubhouse to grill. We’ll gather at the Oak Creek clubhouse, where the Dublin Wine Group, hosted by Thom and supported by Timothy, will take it from there. Come join us for a fantastic mix of great wine, food, and even better company! The evening wraps up at 10 PM. **Please pay $10 at the door per person to cover the cost of the room rental and for the tableware, napkins, water and cups.** 🍷 **6:46 PM – Dublin Wine Group Social** 📍 **Oak Creek Clubhouse** **9005 Oak Village Blvd, Lewis Center, OH 43035** View on Maps (https://maps.apple.com/place?address=9005%20Oak%20Village%20Blvd,%20Lewis%20Center,%20OH%20%2043035,%20United%20States&coordinate=40.158011,-83.003901&name=Oak%20Creek%20at%20Polaris&place-id=I8D83B59D441EDD9B&map=explore)

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Grandview Grind](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063534163841)!

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.