Cultural Activities

LAST MOMENTS before the bar will be closed permanently on 1 Jan 2026 * **Date & Time**: Thursday 18 Dec, 8pm * **Meeting Point & Venue**: exact spot shared after payment * **Cost**: HK$190 including one signature cocktails worth $130-150 Excluding extra drinks pay-at-bar * First come, first serve. FPS or Payme to 55073213. Please provide the payment slip to WhatsApp: 55073213 to keep your spot! * **Highlights**: \- Instagram\-able background decoration: Capture your moment with a camera \- Themed cocktails; casual bar seating for mingling * **Vibe**: Relaxed group hangout for expats, new comers and locals to unwind and talk with a drink * **Why Join?**: Experience a bar inspired by the history of a place with the highest density of people per kilometre in the past before its site redevelopment; good for sharing stories over drinks **RSVP Now** — limited spots. Share your drink preference when you join. Meet for drinks and chats at a hidden bar in Kowloon. The bar has a nostalgic old HK city theme with signature cocktails for some instagram-able photos/reels and let your friends be jealous about the place. #HongKongBars #TsimShaTsuiNight #KowloonWalledCity #Hangout #LocalDrinks #FragrantHarbourVibes #BarHoppingHK #HappyHourHK #CulturalNights #Hidden #Bar #OldHongKong #Social **Photo Consent Notice**: By joining, you consent to photos/videos from the event being used for future promotions. If you'd rather opt out, let me know!

**Total beginners** **welcome so come try!** A whole new movement, fitness & self defense cultural activity **outdoors!** Structured progressive practices for **Strength**, **Flexibility, Coordination, Balance** & **Self Defense** skills in a fun friendly group environment! Totally NOT what you expect, **serious cardio**, **whole body movement** & **practical!** You will really be surprised by what WE do but even more by what YOU can do! Nothing like what you imagine about Kung Fu, No screaming, No rigidness, No mysticism & No getting hit… but YES, definitely a fun workout with great people! **Curious?** To get an ideal of what class is like, hear instructor & hear student testimonials go to: [https://www.instagram.com/natural.style.kungfu](instagram.com/natural.style.kungfu) **FEE:** 1st time TRIAL fee only $100 HKD. Please RSVP here or Whatsapp me. Non-Resident $150 HKD. After trial 10 class package is $1500 HKD or $200 HKD single class. **WEAR:** Workout clothing, sports shoes & bring bottle of water! **WHEN:** Tuesday 6:45pm NEW people. Please be on time, warm up very important for your 1st class! **WHERE:** Inside Kowloon Park. Meet at McDonalds across from Indoor Swimming Pool entrance, next to Sports Center. MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui, Jordan, or Austin. Link below: [Kowloon Park Swimming Pool](https://maps.apple.com/?address=22%20Austin%20Rd,%20Tsim%20Sha%20Tsui,%20Kowloon,%20Hong%20Kong%20SAR,%20China&auid=15054175802527892571&ll=22.301815,114.170365&lsp=9902&q=Kowloon%20Park%20Swimming%20Pool&_ext=CjIKBAgEEAUKBAgFEAMKBQgGEKcBCgQIChAACgQIUhADCgQIVRAQCgQIWRADCgUIpAEQARIkKSODum0jNjZAMWByPQiohFxAORGqqD1gZDZAQaw+9nwmkVxA&t=m) **WHY:** Out of shape? Gym BORING? Incredible friendly community? More? You want to exercise & have fun building strength, flexibility, coordination & self-defense skills while cultivating patience, focus, confidence & yes… discipline! **HOW:** To get in touch with me, Whatsapp .9420.0360. or email through Meetup. For more info about my art, please visit NaturalStyleKungfu.com. **\- Book a Private 1\-on\-1 Kungfu Class\!** Learn at your own pace & prepare for later group classes, choose the day & time suitable to you! Private Class in Kowloon Park: 1.5 Hours $500, other locations $900 **-**

**Details** Welcome every Expats, Foreigners and Non native speakers of Chinese. You can choose the language you like to learn ( Mandarin/Cantonese ). We have both Mandarin/Cantonese tutors, and all of them are native. Please fill in the following form(for the first time only) and RSVP to join. ***Walkin to join*** We meet every week in a group of 20 - 30 people. We will have nearly half of people are native speakers. There are professional and native Mandarin tutors from Hong Kong Mainland Student Association(msahk.org). Thank you for their help. Hard copy of notes are not provided. You may download and print yours from the links below or just bring any notes you like. ***Mandarin Basics*** [https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/20/Chinese_(Mandarin).pdf](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/2/20/Chinese_(Mandarin).pdf) ***Cantonese Basics*** https://www.cantoneseclass101.com/cantonese-word-lists/?coreX=100 ***Venue*** 39/F, Tower 1, Times Square, 1 Matheson's Street, Causeway Bay Some info about the venue: * Water provided for free and you may bring your own drinks * You can come straight right up to Times Square through Causeway Bay station Exit A, ***Contact***(Whatsapp Group) [https://chat.whatsapp.com/By08XQzNs2y1SbRyOh613t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/By08XQzNs2y1SbRyOh613t)

Sports Chanbara Regular Class (Thursday) Sports chanbara is a free-style Japanese combat sport, which originated from Kodachi Goshindo (Self-defense with a short sword). We would like to introduce this new sport to Hong Kong. Please join us and be a Samurai. Dress code: Sport Attire The session will include the following: Warm-up exercise Basic Japanese Dojo manners Sports Chanbara Basic movement (Kihon Dosa) Attaching Techniques Blocking Techniques Basic Movements of Dodging Sparring Date: Each Thursday Time: 2000-2200pm Location: Room 503, 5/F, BLK B Hoi Luen Industrial Centre, 55 Hoi Yuen Road, Kwun Tong, Kowloon Fee: $600 per 4 classes Others: Attendee no need to bring/buy any helmet or gear and coach will borrow the gears for attendee use during class. For reservation, please message/call Stephen Sensei at 61762261 https://wa.me/85261762261 To find out more, please visit our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/HongKongSportsChanbara Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/sports_chanbara_hong_kong/

$20 for 2 hours

Join us for a Secret Santa for Book Lovers for the holiday season. The idea is to gift a second-hand book (wrapped 🎁) that you have loved and would like to share with others. The only cost would be a small accompanying gift, such as a bookmark, stickers or chocolate bar, up to 20 HKD. Please gift books that are in good condition. We will exchange gifts at the Secret Santa event on Thursday 18th Dec 2025, from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. This will be an introvert friendly event, come join us for an evening of books and holiday cheer. Remember to wrap the book and the small accompanying gift together! Looking forward to seeing you there! PS: If there's a last-minute change of venue due to unforeseen circumstances, the most updated information will be posted in the event's comment section. PS2 We’re introducing a new RSVP rule for our bookclub due to recent last minute cancellations: If you change your RSVP to "No" less than 24 hours before the event or do not show up on the day, you won’t be allowed to join the next one. Of course if you have a valid reason, DM me.

FREE FIRST SESSION IF YOU LIKE OUR IG & FB PAGE \- www\.instagram\.com/deedreamlife \- www\.instagram\.com/deedreamlife\.hk \- www\.facebook\.com/deedreamlife HKD200 per session HKD1800 for 10 prepaid HKD3200 for 20 prepaid WhatsApp 63344266 to register Dee Dream Life 1 Lyndhurst Terrace, Central 14/F, 1401 Our signature class that makes this the top rated Zumba class in HK according to Sassy Hong Kong for many years! Dance to amazing fun rhythms including Latin, Hip Hop. Pop, Funk, Bollywood and more while dripping in sweat and feeling fantastic! Lose weight, burn calories and raise your vibrations with this super uplifting class! Enjoy yourself and feel completely refreshed and energised after a workout! This class is more intense that most other dance fitness classes in town, be ready to sweat and have a proper workout! Easy to follow with repetitive moves, no need to memorise steps and open to all levels including complete beginners to dance and fitness :) At night, we dance to disco lights making this class the party you need to loosen up after a long day at work! Come and enjoy music, movement and fitness like you have never before!

厭咗對住四幅牆？ 單身都可以過得好充實！ 我哋唔係嚴肅配對平台，而係你專屬嘅「單身玩樂俱樂部」💃🕺 就係想搵班Friend一齊癲一齊玩～ 由填表呢刻開始，你嘅社交生活即時Upgrade！ 👇立即Click入嚟加入我哋啦👇 https://forms.gle/bP4kxTspTqKrqSY76 🎯點解你要加入？ ✅ 識多啲同頻率嘅朋友，生活圈子自然闊 ✅ 自由參加冇壓力，鍾意玩咩就玩咩 ✅ 週末節目唔使再頭痕，我哋幫你搞掂 有咩好想玩？隨時PM版主 搞活動最緊要大家開心！ **獨樂樂不如眾樂樂～** **快啲入Group一齊創造回憶啦！** [交form後會盡快加你入群組](交form後會盡快加你入群組)

**Happy Winter Weekend Hikers!** ❄️ Ready for a real Hong Kong hiking adventure? Join us as we tackle Mount Stenhouse (353m), the highest and most rugged peak on Lamma Island. This is not a casual family walk. it's a challenging, off-beat adventure for experienced hikers seeking unmarked trails, unique volcanic geology, and breathtaking 360° views of the South China Sea. We’ll follow a mix of paved paths and steep, unmaintained dirt trails requiring scrambling, bushwhacking, and a good sense of adventure. The route is overgrown in sections and not signposted, offering a true taste of Hong Kong’s wild side. **Event Details: ** Date: 20 December 2025, Saturday Meeting Place and Time: Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier (Central Pier 4) & 10:45AM Key Details: 1. Meeting Point: Yung Shue Wan Ferry Pier (from Central Pier 4) at 10:45AM as we shall take the 11:00AM ferry to Lamma. 2. Hike Duration: ~4-5 hours (including water breaks, photo breaks, snack break and summit time). 3. Difficulty: CHALLENGING. Suitable for fit, experienced hikers only. Not recommended for beginners. 4. End Point: Sok Kwu Wan village for a well-earned Seafood (optional) dinner, followed by ferry return to Central. Route Summary: 1. Start at Yung Shue Wan Pier, walk Main Street to the Family Walk. 2. Follow paved path past Hung Shing Yeh Beach toward Lo So Shing Beach. 3. Locate the discreet, overgrown dirt trail turn-off near Lo So Shing (we’ll guide you).’ 4. Ascend Mount Stenhouse via steep, rugged, and unmarked paths—scrambling required followed by a snack break 5. Descend toward Sham Wan (Turtle Beach) and continue to Sok Kwu Wan. Your Commitment – For Safety & Enjoyment: ✔ Proper hiking boots are mandatory (no sneakers or flats). ✔ Wear Cap, long sleeves & long pants for protection against thick scrub. ✔ Bring 3-4 liters of water, snacks, gloves for bushwhacking, insect repellent & sun protection. ✔ Pack a positive, supportive, and team-oriented attitude. We hike as a group. ✔ Honestly assess your fitness and experience—this hike is strenuous and route-finding is involved. Our Vibe: Inclusive, supportive, and friendly. We respect the trail, each other, and the challenge. No hikers will be left behind. _Disclaimer_: _This hike involves unofficial trails with natural hazards. By joining, you acknowledge the risks and are responsible for your own safety, preparedness, and decision-making. About our host: _Raj is a Hong Kong hiking enthusiast with deep local trail experience. Let’s explore the wild heart of Lamma together!_

🌆 你是否也在寻找这样的连接？ • 想认识真诚的香港朋友，而不只是职场上的点头之交 • 对香港文化好奇，却找不到人带你体验地道的港式生活 • 希望有人为你解读本地人才懂的生活智慧 • 想要一个既懂内地情怀，又熟悉香港脉络的交流圈子 🌉 当港漂遇见香港本地人 这里聚集了热心友善的香港成员与新港漂朋友，我们相信： • 最好的融入，从一杯奶茶的闲聊开始 • 最深的了解，来自本地人带你行街食饭的体验 • 最暖的支持，是当你困惑时有过来人指点 📌 我们拒绝什么？ ❌ 不接受传销/直销 ❌ 不接受保险推销 ❌ 不是抱怨大会 ✅ 而是一个让你能真正 「放下过客心态，找到留港意义」的支援网 🎯 在这里你能获得 ✅ 本地朋友带你玩 ✅ 生活实用支援 • 在地生活秘籍：从街市砍价到生活资源 • 粤语实战教学：学最地道的用语，听懂港式幽默 ✅ 双向交流平台 • 香港朋友想了解内地文化，新港漂想认识本地生活 • 我们在这里互相学习，彼此丰富 🤝 我们的独特价值 ❌ 不是单向的“帮助”，而是双向的交流 ❌ 不是表面的“欢迎”，而是真诚的接纳 ✅ 是新老朋友一起建构的温暖社群 “真正的融入，从交到第一个本地朋友开始” 👉 [立即加入](https://forms.gle/TSWwAMQqQ72qvqKy8)充满温度的跨文化社群： https://forms.gle/TSWwAMQqQ72qvqKy8

hohoho! Merry Christmas 🧑🏼‍🎄 🎉 🤠 🎁 🎄 X'mas dinner party in High Street, Sai Ying pun! (we change to dine in Sai Ying Pun becoz the last yr restaurant close unfortunately.) Santa Claus is coming to town~X’Mas wine dinner & networking!!🎄🎄🎉🎉🍷🍹🍸🍖🥂 Lets have some Christmas joys & fun together! Enjoy the foods and drinks, INTERESTING topic to discuss, little Games, Lucky draw, gifts exchange (if you like) & social networking!!🎄🎄⛄🎅🏻🎅🏻🎉🎉 Enjoy Western foodies, Chicken, Port, seafood plus some polish styles dishes. Fusion Cuisine with wines, sparkling wines, beers & cocktails~~🍷🥂🍻🍾🍵🍝🍲🥗🦞😽😽☃️☃️☃️ Dinner brief rundown: 7:30pm people arriving and chill, chit chat for an hour & 8:30pm tapas & main course, drink 9:30pm lucky draw, gifts exchange (you would bring your own Xmas gift roughy $90, its optional) & photo taking 😀😀 10:30pm finish 
Dress code: nice and any wear in red or sparkle bling bling ok (hat/accessories/blouses/dress/trousers/scarf/watch, etc)🤩🦜😽😽🎄🎄🎄 Welcome to bring friends, pls message Elise, your friend English name/s 😃😃☺️☺️🤗 arrange your and your friends sit together if u like. Please text me earlier. Around $450 - 480 each pax (standard set dinner (3 shared tapas and 3-4 shared main courses) + 2 glasses of wines/sparkling wine/beers/cocktails. Depends on what main courses we order to share, & it has add-on $ if u want to pick seafoods, lobsters, tiger pawns, Japanese jumbo scallops, etc. seafood or premium steak and special deserts!) Or $350 each pax (2-3 tapas/appetisers + 1 glass of red or white wine/sparkling wine) For foods placed & arrangement, Wines with tapas choice will be sitting another table. Or you would A La Carte the main course by yourself. $70+10%sc extra glass of wine/sparkling wine/beer/cocktails) $35-40+10%sc coffee/tea $60-80+10% special cocktails/ mocktails choices $90-$100+10%sc liqors/ whisky/rum $60-130 + 10% desert, Some ice cream puddings/big tiramisu/ signature waffles / lava cakes could be shared by 2-3 pax. 😋🎄🤗 ******************************** Menu: (A La Carte or sharing) 😋 Chicken Karaage, Marry Me Meatball, Shitake Mushroom Tempura, Cailiflower Karaage, Yakitori, half roast chicken, smoked duck sandwich, roast chicken sandwiches, chicken sando, chicken schnitzel burgers, chicken Fajitas, chicken parmigiana , saltimbocca, chicken alfredo pasta/ risotto, mushroom risotto, caesar salad, cobb salad, polich rosol 😋 PLUS Pork & other nice dishes (beside chicken type dishes): Small plate: Lamb Kofta, thai crab cake, bone marrow, wagyu steak Tartare, butcher burgers, Salad: peach & burrata, truffle potato salad Main: US baby back barbecue ribs, pork belly, canadian pork chop, burrata pesto linguine, typhoon crab truffle pasta, steaks: hanger tender steak, black angus m3 ribeye, m3 sirloin, grass fed ribeye, fish & chips, chicken schnitzel, beef cheek, roasted Australian Barramundi, lamb wellington, wild mushroom risotto, pea & bacon risotto Desert: lemon tart, chocolate lava cake, basterds apple strudel, strawberry pierogies, etc. ******************************** Welcome to join 19th Dec X'Mas Western + Polish fusion Social wine dinner ~ since its X'Mas Peak season with busy bookings, plus in order to have a nice big group on 19th Dec , work out happily, we wanna secure the nice big table and seats. Please have deposit $200 for each person Soon, better before 9pm, 18th Dec. we also need to pre-order grilled yummy chicken, turkey, ham & cheese platter/ seafood platter
Since limited seats, so early deposit early & better arrangement. Thanks 😊 After your payment if you know you really can’t make it several hours before the dinner starts, pls tell me . you would find your friend to replace your seat. Or for next time dinners then. Hope understand 🙏 
FPS or Payme or bank transfer is okay. Details will be sent to you individually. thanks and hope you understand this!
We would like to make sure to be able to meet the new faces on the 'Going List'. 😊😉 🙏😊😊🎉 Lovely night ~ The Deposit $200 will be deducted from your dinner fee after the meal. Such as your dinner fee is $450, so you only need to pay $200 ($450-$250) on 19th that night.~~ Please deposit as you could, if you don't have FPS/PayMe, pls TEXT me and will handle this. Thanks for all. 🙏 🤠🎆🎆🎆🌲☃️☃️

We will host this event at Kai Tak Community Hall Conference room. Due to venue policy, eating or drinking inside community hall is not allowed. We organise board game meetup each month, which is different from a single table board game session. Multiple gaming tables are hosted in each meetup for the whole afternoon, from beginners to veterans. Everyone can choose their preferred games to learn. If you're new, don't worry and we'll teach all the games. The entry fee for the whole meetup is 50 dollars. Please prepay via [PayMe](payme.hsbc/cathy22) with description "Meetup [Your display name on Meetup]" to guarantee your spot, otherwise seats may not be reserved in advance. Please let us know if you have settled payment or any difficulties on [Payme](payme.hsbc/cathy22). Feel free to DM Cathy for any enquiries about reservation. Features for Our Meetup: 1. Free style - You could come at any time, but please note that you might not get into a game if you come too late. 2. No worries for what to do, we prepare you games and players. Ready to come and enjoy a great time with some new friends through our games! 3. Attendees will receive a name badge upon arrival. Your badge must be worn and visible at all times while attending the event. 4. Attendees maybe photographed during the event for HKBGCA marketing and promotion purposes. Game Selection: 1. [Zhanguo](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/381819/zhanguo-the-first-empire) (1-4 players, 150 Min, Difficult) 2. [Shackleton Base](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/408180/shackleton-base-a-journey-to-the-moon) (1-4 players, 150 Min, Difficult) 3. [Luna Capital](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/323613/luna-capital) (1-4 players, 60 Min, Medium) 4. [Miyabi](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/285533/miyabi) (2-5 players, 45 Min, Medium) 5. [Archeologic](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/386148/archeologic) (1-4 players, 45 Min, Medium) 6. [Fromage](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/384213/fromage) (1-4 players, 45 Min, Medium) 7. [Forbidden Jungle](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/380226/forbidden-jungle) (2-5 players, 45 Min, Medium) 8. [Castle Combo](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/416851/castle-combo) (2-5 players, 30 Min, Easy) 9. [Welcome back to the Dungeon](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/195043/welcome-back-to-the-dungeon) (2-4 players, 30 Min, Easy) 10. [Vaalbara](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/361241/vaalbara) (2-5 players, 30 Min, Easy) 11. [Gardlings](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/416059/gardlings) (1-4 players, 25 Min, Easy) 12. [The Crew Family Adventure](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/406299/the-crew-family-adventure) (3-5 players, 20 Min, Easy) 13. [Sky Team](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/373106/sky-team) (2 players, 20 Min, Easy) 14. [Matchstick Tycoon](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/446637/matsuchimai-rinoda-fu-hao-matchstick-tycoon) (2-8 players, 20 Min, Easy) 15. [Just 3 folds](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/448257/just-3-folds) (1-6 players, 15 Min, Easy) 16. [Lure](https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/415780/lure) (2-5 players, 15 Min, Easy) Please note no-show policy will be enforced. If you cannot come due to some reason, please let us know so we can find replacement before the meetup starts. Absence without any reason will be blacklisted. Please show good manners and respect to other people during gaming session. Behaviour that causes an uncomfortable or unpleasant atmosphere at the table will result in being removed from our future events until further notice. Hope you enjoy the games we select! The Hong Kong Boardgame Culture Association

🌟 Hey everyone! 🌟 Christmas Festive season is here! 🎄🎁 Get ready for a fun celebration with dinner with a view! 🖼🍽🍔 We'll be hanging out, playing light games, and having burgers over at Shake Shack at IFC mall! 😋 🗓 Date: December 19th 🕕 Time: 7:30PM 📍 Address: Shake Shack (IFC mall) 🧥 Dresscode: any hint of 🛑 **Red** 🛑 Come bring your friends and celebrate Christmas with us with a scenic Kowloon view!😍 == 🌟 大家好呀！🌟 聖誕嚟喇！🎄🎁 我哋會一齊chill、玩啲輕鬆遊戲，仲有去IFC嘅Shake Shack食漢堡！😋 準備好嚟一場超正嘅慶祝啦～🖼🍽🍔 🗓️ 日期：12月19號 🕖 時間：晚上7:30 📍 地點：Shake Shack（IFC商場） 🧥 服裝：著少少🛑**紅色**🛑就得 嚟啦嚟啦！帶埋你嘅朋友一齊慶祝聖誕，仲有靚爆嘅九龍景陪你過節！😍

*GOhio!* turns 8!! 🥳 Come celebrate with us at [Pins Mechanical](https://www.pinsbar.com/locations/easton)! 😄 **Summary** Pins Mechanical Co. is a social entertainment venue that combines old-school games like duckpin bowling, pinball, and other classic arcade and table games with craft cocktails, local beers, and punch. The vintage-industrial atmosphere is designed for playful, face-to-face gatherings with friends, family, and colleagues, offering a casual and lively alternative to a typical bar. Pins' Easton location spans over 38,000 square feet, making it the largest in the United States. This massive entertainment venue features two floors, a mezzanine level with stadium seating, and three full-service bars. It offers 16 duckpin bowling lanes, two indoor bocce courts, and more than 60 classic and modern pinball and arcade games. For additional fun, the location is known for its two outdoor patios, an indoor slide, and an expanded patio pong setup. **Activities** As noted below, some machines take actual quarters. Pins has two change machines (one downstairs and one upstairs) that accept ones, fives, or tens (only), and return quarters (only). * *Duckpin Bowling* [Like Bowling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duckpin_bowling) but with smaller balls, stubby pins, and no oil on the lanes. The cost is $9 per game per person. * *Pinball* [Who](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Who)'s a [wizard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinball_Wizard) on these [retro machines](https://pinballmap.com/map/?by_location_id=15311)? At $1 per play, everyone! Takes quarters. * *Arcade* Play classics like Gorf, Pac-Man, Gorf, Donkey Kong, Gorf, Galaga, and Gorf! The best part is, there's Gorf! And all the arcade games are free! * *Patio Pong* The classic college party staple but bigger. Instead of tossing a ping pong ball into cups, you use a regular ball and oversized buckets. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free! * *Ping Pong* The most popular sport in China! They have two ping pong tables downstairs and two more ping pong tables upstairs. For those of you who have studied topological spaces and set theory, you will know this means they have four total ping pong tables. They have bubble gum dispensers with ping pong balls in them for 25¢ each. The dispensers take quarters. However, they also have racks where they store the ping pong paddles, and in these racks are slots for ping pong balls. It's not uncommon to see balls already here, so there's a chance you may be able to play ping pong for free if you want to. * *Hookie* You can't put your eye out! The safe alternative to darts: Hook thrown rings on a board. Outdoors on the upstairs patio, and free! * *Bocce* Like bowling, except there’s turf and a lot more balls. You can also knock your opponent’s balls out of the way. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free! * *Foosball* Everyone loves [foosball](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_football)! 50¢ a game. Takes quarters. * *Giant Jenga* Stack massive wooden blocks into a tower, then take turns pulling out one block at a time without collapsing the tower. There are four of these sprinkled throughout the venue (two downstairs and two upstairs, with one on each patio), and they're all free! * *Skeeball* There are three skeeball machines on the first floor (near the Gorf machine!), and they're all free! * *Giant Connect Four* On the outdoor patio upstairs, and free! * *Bubble Hockey* This is upstairs. Up to four people can play at once, and it costs $1. Takes quarters. * *Cornhole* There are two cornhole lanes upstairs, and they're both free! * *Basketball* There are two basketball machines downstairs. They're tucked behind the downstairs bar, so they're not always obvious unless you go look for them. They're $2 per play, and they take quarters. * *NES and Sega Genesis video games* These are collections, downstairs (near the Gorf machine!), of video games that you can play for free! * *The Big Metal Indoor Slide* This large two-story slide is for kids, and certainly no adults would ride this. After all, it's not like it's free or anything. **Outdoor Patio** Pins at Easton actually has two outdoor patios. But for our purposes, only the upstairs one matters. See, it will be winter and likely cold. But their upstairs patio has multiple ceiling heaters and two massive gas fire pits that put out a ton of heat. Sitting out here may be a real option. As mentioned above, the upstairs outdoor patio has one of the venue's two Patio Pong setups, one of their multiple Giant Jengas, the Giant Connect Four, and Hookie. **Food** Pins doesn't serve food, but there's a [Mikey's Late Night Slice](https://www.latenightslice.com/) next door. This Mikey's is basically an extension of the Easton Pins; there's a large open doorway between both establishments. Mikey's has a fountain dispenser with Coke products. You can also get Coke and Diet Coke (but not Coke Zero, like you can at Mikey's) at the bars in Pins, but I think the quality of the soda pop from Mikey's fountain is better than that from the bar hoses Pins uses to dispense soft drinks. You are also quite allowed at Pins to either bring food in or order it in via your favorite delivery app. **Parking** I recommend parking in the [Worth Garage](https://eastontowncenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/parking-at-easton-updated-file-sept-25.pdf). It's literally right next door to Pins, and it's free as long as you park on Level 2 or above. They recently started charging people to park on Level 1, and you pay for parking on this level the same way you pay for street parking in Columbus, with the [ParkColumbus](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.parkmobile.parkcolumbus&hl=en_US&pli=1) app. I've seen them enforce this by ticketing people's cars, but I don't know how they actually compel payment. The garage is not a public street that actual cops can write you tickets for parking illegally on. If you have an actual ticket from a cop that you don't pay, they can go so far as to issue a warrant for your arrest. But all Easton has, seemingly, is, "[Please pay our ticket](https://eastonpreferredpark.com/)." Still, in my ongoing efforts to eliminate needless stress and aggravation from my life, I just park above the first Level. The actual address of the garage is [4049 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4049+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388a86de3af559:0xc1dc8b4661fc834f!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11sgzjp4ml?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). However, your GPS is stupid. The actual entrances to the garage are on the cross steets Brighton Rose Way and Fenlon St, not Worth Ave. Just keep this in mind once you get to the garage. **Where we'll meet** I'll post in the comments where I am. People will obviously want to explore different areas of the venue over the course of the event (and there's a lot to explore), but please just let me know (as in, come find me) once you've arrived. **Peroration** Come on out and say hi! 😄

**Summary** I love hiking [Highbanks](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) in the winter after the sun has gone down. Highbanks is never really dark -- there's too much ambient light from Lewis Center. But I love the trails at night. When I started hiking Highbanks, I was afraid of getting lost and particularly at night. But now that I know my way around, nighttime is one of my favorite times to hike there. In addition, near the end of our hike, we will take a few minutes to walk around the Nature Center and look at the Christmas lights. (The Nature Center itself will be closed, however, by the time we get to it.) 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 [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"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 on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks and [food](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood). Last year, the weather wasn't too terrible, and the Brewery had their patio fire pits going and we were able to sit outside. The fire pits at night are kind of amazing. The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, Lewis Center, OH 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 7:45. **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. **Note on our starting time** Highbanks closes at 8:00 this time of year, and they get kind of snarly about getting everyone out of the park by then. So please be on time for this hike. I want to allow two hours for the hike and be back at Big Meadows by 7:30. So we're shoving off at 5:30, with or without a quorum.

**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.

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!

**Miracle is a Christmas-themed pop-up cocktail bar that serves holiday cocktails in the most festive and nostalgic setting in the city - [CITIZENS TRUST](https://www.thecitizenstrust.com/). Featuring wall-to-wall Christmas décor, cheery social experiences, and a whole lot of Christmas spirits!** **Sip one of the many Christmas cocktails crafted by their jolly staff, take your profile picture in the Igloo, and connect with friends in the most decked out holiday bar in the city.** **START**: ***HAPPY HOUR at Buckeye Bourbon House*** (5-6pm). Select small plates and cocktails are about half price. *(note: Citizens Trust does not serve food, just cocktails)* **PARKING:** After 5pm, metered street parking is available. There is also a public pay lot on the same block (Metropolis).