Cultural Activities

## Details The title of the event is a paradox! Read in silence and then discuss with like-minded folks! :-) 📝 **How does this work?** We will meet in the Bartley's Restaurant area from 7:00 PM to 8:15 PM for silent reading and followed up by discussion. **During silent reading, you're expected to remain silent and read.** Please bring your headphones and refrain from the discussion during the first one hour in the area. 👥 **Socialising** After an hour, at 8:15 PM, we'll discuss and socialize about the book you're reading. We highly encourage you to move between tables and strike up conversations with fellow book lovers. These discussions about literature and reading recommendations are often the highlight of the event! Feel free to join at any point during the event. The event is indoors, hopefully, we can continue the tradition of the silent reading in the winter! **📌 Helpful Tips and Notes** * Bring headphones to block out surrounding noise * I will post a comment on the event page when I arrive to indicate where we're seated, so everyone can find us * If you prefer to skip the silent reading, you can join directly at the bar at 8:15 PM ⚠️**Something Happened?** If something unpleasant happened to you, it may happen to others. It may be small but don't hesitate to reach out to me. Looking forward to meeting you all 😊

***[Save 50% getting a ticket in advance (only first 20 people)](https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/social-language-exchange-tickets-1985534555304?discount=EarlyBirdsMeetup&keep_tld=true)*** **✨ Dynamic Conversations** Enjoy small-group conversations (2–3 people per table) at dedicated language tables. There will always be **English-only tables**, and every attendee rotates through these tables during the **first and last rotation**. **🏷️ Language Stickers on Arrival** As soon as you arrive, you’ll receive: • **Native language stickers** (with flags + “native”) • **Practicing language stickers** (with flags + “practicing”) You may choose multiple practicing languages. These stickers help you join the right tables and connect with people who match your goals. **🔄 Rotations Every 30 Minutes** Every 30 minutes, the organizer rearranges groups based on preferred languages. We aim for **bilingual tables**, ideally with at least one native or advanced speaker. If no native speakers are available, we can still create a table as long as **two people want to practice the same language**. **🌍 Popular Languages** English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, and any other language requested by at least two attendees. **📈 All Levels Welcome** Beginner or advanced—everyone is welcome. The only requirement is enthusiasm and willingness to communicate. **🃏 Conversation Cards + Complimentary Fries** Need inspiration? Conversation cards are available at every table. Enjoy complimentary **fries around 8:00 PM**. **💸 Pay-as-you-go (Cash / Card)** • €6 General Admission • €5 Students • €4 per person when you bring friends **⭐ Loyalty Card (Automatically Activated)** Attend **4 Language Exchanges or International Meetups**, and your **5th event is FREE**. **💳 [Membership Options (Save € & unlock perks)](https://buymeacoffee.com/newindublin)** **🟡 Regular Membership (€12/mo)** ✔ Free: Singles, Language Exchange, International Meetup ✔ –50%: Quizzes, Big Singles, Theme Party, Cultural Mix, Social Games, Music Challenge ✔ Extra perks **🔵 Theme Membership (€15/mo)** ✔ Free: Quizzes, Big Singles, Theme Party, Cultural Mix, Social Games, Music Challenge ✔ –50%: Singles, Language Exchange, International Meetup ✔ Extra Perks **🟣 Complete Membership (€20/mo)** ✔ Free access to ALL events ✔ Extra Perks **📱 Stay Connected** 🔗 **[Linktree](https://linktr.ee/newindublin)**[ ](https://linktr.ee/newindublin)– full weekly calendar 💬 **[WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L8IcUuQzHVVLGaoUZ8ONRt)**[ ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L8IcUuQzHVVLGaoUZ8ONRt)– reminders & updates 📘 **[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/newindublinmeetup)**[ ](https://www.facebook.com/newindublinmeetup)– photos & highlights 📸 **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/newindublinmeetups/)**[ ](https://www.instagram.com/newindublinmeetups/)– stories & behind-the-scenes 🌐 **[Website](https://newindublin.net/)**[ ](https://newindublin.net/)– all information about our events **🎉 Join Us!** A fun, relaxed evening full of languages, new people, and confidence-building conversations. **RSVP now! 🚀**

Centro Cultural Capoeira Água de Beber (CECAB) – Capoeira Água de Beber Cultural Centre – is a non-profit organization, founded officially in January 2002. Its pivot activity is Capoeira (classes, rodas, workshops, public presentations, cultural events, performances), however it aggregates other cultural manifestations as: samba de roda, maculelê, frevo, ciranda, dança do coco, dança afro, puxada de rede, craftworks workshops of making and playing music instruments, video projections, movies, lectures about relevant cultural topics and matters related to enforcement of citizenship. All the activities realized through CECAB are designated to execution of social responsibility projects, further on the sportive, cultural and artistic activities through the realization of the shows, presentations and events related to Capoeira and Brazilian culture.

Pub night to speak Russian. Native and non-native speakers with any level of Russian are all welcome!

Join us to **practise and improve your target language with native speakers on Wednesday in the Arlington** (Bachelor's Walk, Dublin 1) from **6.30pm to 8.30pm**. **Our system:** **• You sit opposite a native speaker of the language you're learning** **• You speak 5mins English, 5mins other language, then change table** This ensures everyone gets an equal opportunity to practise the language they're learning. Our team seats people, controls the time, organises the table changes etc. What to expect: • Relaxed easy going atmosphere • Professional and quality service • Great networking opportunities • All levels welcome from absolute beginner to fully fluent • A big mix of ages with attendees at each event from 18 to 70+ years old • Topic cards on the tables to help start conversations Wide range of languages: We usually have **native speakers of English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese** and more depending on who shows up. **Admission fee €7** (€6 for student card holders). **No pre-registration required, just show up**. Loyalty card system: Come to 5 events and the 6th is free. Over 150,000 people have attended our language exchange events since 2012 to practise and improve their target language - you can too! Everyone is welcome! For more news and info check: Website: [www.languageexchangeireland.com](http://www.languageexchangeireland.com/) FB: [www.facebook.com/languageexchangeireland](http://www.facebook.com/languageexchangeireland) Instagram: [www.instagram.com/languageexchangeireland](http://www.instagram.com/languageexchangeireland) NOTE: The MeetUp attendance does not reflect actual attendance. There are usually around 100 people at each event. We also have the events every Monday & Thursday in River Bar at 6.30pm.

You'll meet your local guide at the meeting point a little before 11AM and show your booking. Then we'll commence a fascinating walking tour through the streets, sights, and sounds of Dublin old and new. You'll get an unrivalled insight to the history and culture that has shaped the capital you see today - warts and all, discover the lesser-known, intriguing oddities of our city, and get unique insider tips for the rest of your stay. Sites and topics covered include: Dublin Castle, Christchurch, Viking & Medieval Dublin, Temple Bar, fables, folklore and mythology, Trinity College, Stephen's Green, risings and rebellions, writers & rogues and so, so much more... please remember, places are limited and you must book your spot via: https://www.generationtours.com/dublin See you soon!

Most language exchanges are built around **movement**. —fast rotations, brief chats, surface-level conversation. New table. New person. Start again. It feels productive. It isn’t. Real conversations don’t happen in 10 minutes. They start there. Then they get interesting. At Flip Lingoes, **you stay.** Same table. Same group. Enough time for real conversation and real connection, beyond the surface level. Every 5 minutes, you switch roles: **fluent speaker ↔ learner**, not people. Before you arrive, **[create a profile here](https://www.fliplingoes.com/language-exchange-dublin/)**[,](https://www.fliplingoes.com/language-exchange-dublin/) tell us what language you're learning. This helps our **automated matching algorithm** put you in the right small group. No awkward searching. No guesswork. Simply scan the QR code on arrival and it automatically matches you with fluent speakers of your target language. We host events at Zanzibar Locke: calm, well-designed, easy to hear, easy to focus. *** **Event Flow** 6:45–7:15 → Seamless check-in (QR code, get matched, sit down) 7:15–8:30 → Language Exchange (structured, focused) 8:30 → Optional social + snacks included **Crispy chicken wings. Cheesy loaded nachos.** Straight from Zanzibar Locke’s kitchen. Perfect for chatting, relaxing, and refueling after a great language session. **Entry:** €8 (tasty snacks included) **Bundles:** 4 events €24 \| 10 events €50\, purchase [here](https://www.fliplingoes.com/language-exchange-dublin/?pricing_filter=in_person#bundles-section) in advance for express check in. Save time and money. **Be generous and invite a friend for free:** It's simple. Create a profile [here](https://www.fliplingoes.com/language-exchange-dublin/), log in, and click “**Invite Friend** to sign up.” It generates a link and you send that to them. Easy and your friend will thank you later ;) If they register for the event before you, you both get free entry.🙌 \*P.S We ask if you consider to buy a drink at the bar upon arrival and support their venue and excellent hospitality in the heart of Dublin. *** **Why Flip Lingoes works:** * Go deeper: longer conversations at the same table * Speak with the right people via automated matching * Smooth, calm, focused environment * Fun social finish If you’re tired of restarting conversations and want to **actually speak beyond the greeting and small talk**, this is your place. [Flip Lingoes](https://www.fliplingoes.com) is a new and innovative language exchange event, with a clear vision: **To upgrade language exchange events online and in cities around the world.** Currently in Dublin, Zurich and Online. **Can you guess our next city?** **Flip into our world:** **[On Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/fliplingoes/)** **[Sign up to FlipLingoes.Com](https://www.fliplingoes.com/language-exchange-dublin/)** ***

Welcome to a vibrant community created for men and women who are ready to connect, explore, and thrive together as friends! This group is all about bringing solo people together in a fun and welcoming space. Where new friendships are formed and fresh experiences await. **Get your ticket here on Eventbrite link:** https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/solo-meets-social-make-new-friends-cocktail-masterclass-at-nyx-tickets-1988123067614?aff=oddtdtcreator **Important information:** Limited spots. Strict ticket event. Tickets will be scanned at check in. **Do not show up without an Eventbrite ticket.** Please bring ID in case the doorman ask you for proof of age. Minimum age to attend is 23. RSVPs are not a true representation of the people attending. You can get a ticket whether you're on the RSVP or Waitlist. 1st come, 1st serve. By joining this event, you accept our T&Cs, check them out on our website: Yinyangevents.ie Follow us on Insta: https://www.instagram.com/yinyangevents.ie/

**Hello Mishmashers 👋** Excited to see you at our next meetup! Here's what you can look forward to: 💬 **Great chats with lovely people**! whether you're a local or from the other side of the world, you’re very welcome here! 🌍 **Not a native English speaker?** Awesome, you’ll get to practice with native speakers in a relaxed, no-pressure setting. 🇮🇪 **Are you a native English speaker?** Cool! Chat in English or find someone to practice another language with. Why not mix it up? ✨ We’re a **diverse, super-friendly, and inclusive bunch**, open to everyone, whether you’re shy, outgoing, or somewhere in between. 🎯 Our awesome organizers are always around to make sure things run smoothly and everyone feels included. 💡 One of the nicest things we hear again and again: even introverts feel at ease here. That’s something we’re really proud of. 🤝 **Instant connections!** You might walk in alone, but you'll probably leave with new friends. 📅 **This Saturday at 2:30pm!** We’ll be downstairs around the big oval table at a much-loved venue that's perfect for easy-going conversations and real connection. 🎉 **Theme: “International Mishmash”**: A chill space for people from all over (including Ireland!) to swap stories, share laughs, and practice languages if you fancy. (Shout-out to our lovely Irish regulars!) 🍻 **And after?** At 5pm, we’ll head over to the nearby **RIOT Pub** for tasty burgers and proper pints. Always a good time!!! *** **Want to support the group? 🙏** Running this thing costs over €200 a year (yep, all out of pocket for now 😅). If you’d like to chip in, we’d really appreciate it: * [PayPal](https://paypal.me/meetuppay) * [Revolut](https://revolut.me/michelf9a) (you can pay with your card, no need to be on Revolut!). Your help keeps the group going and opens the door for even more cool events (like day trips and gigs!). Cheers and see you soon! **– Michele & the Meetup Crew**

*“Morality is simply the attitude we adopt towards people whom we personally dislike”.* [Please arrange your own ticket](https://gatetheatre.ie/). Welcome to add your seat number in the comments so others can find adjacent seats. About: Step into a world of wit, intrigue, and timeless charm with Gate theatre's thrilling new production of Oscar Wilde’s An Ideal Husband. Experience the sparkling dialogue, sharp social satire, and a story layered with secrets, scandal, and unexpected romance. This classic play invites you to explore moral dilemmas and the complexities of human nature. CAST: LADY MARKBY: Ingrid Craigie LADY BASILDON: Wren Dennehy VICOMTE DE NANJAC/JAMES: Gabriel Draper THE EARL OF CAVERSHAM: Nick Dunning MRS. CHEVELEY: Caitríona Ennis ROBERT CHILTERN: Richard Flood VISCOUNT GORING: Matthew Malone MRS MARCHMONT: Sadhbha Odufuwa-Bolger MISS MABEL CHILTERN: Claire O’Leary MONTFORD/MASON/ PHIPPS: Daniel Reardon LADY CHILTERN: Ayoola Smart CREATIVES Director: Marc Atkinson Borrull Set Designer: Kat Heath Costume Designer: James McGlynn Seaver Lighting Designer: Sineád McKenna Sound Designer: Martha Knight Movement Director: Paula O’Reilly Casting Director: Áine O’Sullivan Assistant Set Designer: Niamh Kearney Assistant Lighting Designer: Jess Fitzsimons Kane Resident Assistant Director: Signe Lury

Join us every Sunday and tell a story as a group by playing a beginner-friendly roleplaying game. Every week we have 2-3 different games - you will choose which game you play on the day. All materials provided and rules are explained at the start of each game, you just need to bring your imagination. 🎭 **This week's facilitators:** * 🏚️ **Eoin** with *[Desperation: Dead House](https://bullypulpitgames.itch.io/desperation)*, a card-based RPG where you build a 19th Century Nebraska town and then roleplay its inhabitants experiencing an apocalyptic winter. As supplies and sanity dwindle in equal measure, who will live and who will be added to the dead house? * 🌆 **Vishnu** with *[Hex and the City](https://theinvulnerabletide.itch.io/hex-and-the-city)*, an urban fantasy game based on *Lasers and Feelings*. You are all that stands between the forces of darkness and the innocent people that don't believe in them. Whatever hijinks and personal drama you have going on in the background, you have always managed to come through and save this City. Or at least, you have until SERENITY, THE CHOSEN ONE got herself grievously wounded in the last battle, leaving you with no prophetic visions to guide you, or convenient one-shot monster killing powers while she recovers. (Or maybe she's off "recuperating" with her demon boyfriend again, who knows?) *** Feel free to ask the organisers any questions you have (here or on our [Discord server](https://tinyurl.com/indie-rpgs-dublin)).

Spoken word event as part of Phizzfest annual festival in Phibsboro. Featuring Dubh Lee, Eva Mary Lucy, Mana, Conor Killeen, Isolde and Saorla Fenton, and Naming Cows theatre. Tickets cost €15 and are available at phizzfest festival 2026 website. My phone is not copying stuff today. But they are easy to find. We can organise meeting up through comments section.

**[50% OFF TICKETS (first 30)!](www.eventbrite.com/e/1986198829165/?discount=EarlyBirds)** 🌍 **International Cultural Mix – Celebrate Cultures, Meet People, Have Fun** Welcome to one of Dublin’s most social, colourful and international Saturday nights. A vibrant mix of games, challenges and cultural surprises that help you meet people from all around the world in the most natural and fun way. Perfect for newcomers, locals, travellers and anyone who loves learning about different countries and cultures. Expect a warm and friendly atmosphere, plenty of movement, team missions and drink tokens for the winners. You don’t need to come with friends — you’ll meet dozens of people within minutes. **🧩 What to Expect** Welcome & Flag Stickers 🔥 *Passport Around the World* 🌐 *Global Connections* 🌎 *Chain of Nations* ⏸ Break 🗺️ *Travel Map Challenge* 🌏 *Continents Unite* 📸 Closing & Group Photo **💸 Pay-as-you-go (Cash / Card)** • €10 General Admission • €8 per person in groups (2-3 people) • €6 per person in groups (4-6 people) **💳 [Membership Options (Save € & unlock perks)](https://buymeacoffee.com/newindublin)** **🟡 Regular Membership (€12/mo) [€8/mo till February 1st]** ✔ Free: Singles, Language Exchange, International Meetup ✔ –50%: Quizzes, Big Singles, Theme Party, Cultural Mix, Social Games, Music Challenge ✔ Extra perks **🔵 Theme Membership (€15/mo)** ✔ Free: Quizzes, Big Singles, Theme Party, Cultural Mix, Social Games, Music Challenge ✔ –50%: Singles, Language Exchange, International Meetup ✔ Extra Perks **🟣 Complete Membership (€20/mo)** ✔ Free access to ALL events ✔ Extra Perks **📱 Stay Connected** 🔗 **[Linktree](https://linktr.ee/newindublin)**[ ](https://linktr.ee/newindublin)– full weekly calendar 💬 **[WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L8IcUuQzHVVLGaoUZ8ONRt)**[ ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/L8IcUuQzHVVLGaoUZ8ONRt)– reminders & updates 📘 **[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/newindublinmeetup)**[ ](https://www.facebook.com/newindublinmeetup)– photos & highlights 📸 **[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/newindublinmeetups/)**[ ](https://www.instagram.com/newindublinmeetups/ "https://www.instagram.com/newindublinmeetups/")– stories & behind-the-scenes 🌐 **[Website](https://newindublin.net/)**[ ](https://newindublin.net/)– all information about our events

Join us for an exciting meetup at the Dublin Turkish Speaking Club where we will have engaging conversations in Turkish, and enjoy fun activities that promote language practice and cultural exchange. Whether you are a beginner or fluent in Turkish, this is the perfect opportunity to practice your language skills in a relaxed and friendly environment. Come and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the Turkish language and culture. Let's have a great time together while immersing ourselves in the beauty of Turkish traditions and creativity!

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!

**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.

We’re bringing back Adult Field Day. Last year was a good mix of competition and just hanging out, so we’re doing it again with some new games mixed in. Think team-based challenges, simple races, and a few things inspired by game shows. You don’t need to be athletic. Most of the fun is just being part of a team and getting to know people you wouldn’t normally talk to. The goal isn’t really winning. It’s meeting people, laughing a bit, and leaving knowing a few more names than when you showed up. If you stick around after, we’ll have a potluck cookout. This is at a racetrack and there is a race that night be sure to check it out $15 cash only after the race about 11:30 or so we’ll start partying by the bonfire. BYOB free camping or sleep sober up in your vehicle do not drink and drive!! Bring: * Please Bring Something to share for the potluck cookout signup sheet [https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday) * Clothes you can move around in A **small contribution** helps keep events sustainable and ensures those who RSVP actually show up. **Great events** take time, effort, and consistency to organize. **Most people contribute** $3–5 per event to help keep these going. Appreciate everyone who supports — it genuinely makes a difference. If you find value in these events consider contributing **Contribution link** listed below in the comments link

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Kittie's Worthington](https://kittiescakes.com/)!

**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.

Ready for a night of music, laughter, and fun? Join us at Thunderwing Brewery for Music Bingo — a lively twist on classic bingo where songs replace numbers and good vibes are guaranteed! RSVP to secure your spot. Text Renee (614-257-9389). (Headcount needed to make sure staffing can accommodate the group) Arrive early to get a seat - **bring a camping chair for extra seating.** Often the brewery has food trucks or you can bring in your own food. Bonus - You can bring your dog!