D&D Next

Join your Meetup hosts, the *Home Improv Mints* and NINE other short form improv teams battling it out for the Improvicon trophy. Reservations on Meetup won't get you a ticket. Tickets for this event do not go through Meetup. You need to visit DarkhorseVA.com

*You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf) and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.* A 5 mile hike with no elevation change. We'll stop halfway to view the heron rookery (or herony) on Vesper Island. The herons nest on Vesper Island and have their young every winter about this time. We'll snack there and watch for awhile. Bring binoculars if you have them. ([Herons and Eagles](https://www.icloud.com/iclouddrive/062PaMOBIrdVBn0dq6V-bK5-Q#Great_Blue_Herons_Build_Nests_Next_to_Their_Predators_-_The_Atlantic)) Please arrive a few minutes early to allow time to sign-in. We will leave promptly at 9:00 p.m. **DETAILS:** There are restrooms if you continue into the parking lot where we meet, towards the lake, by the marina. Bring water and, if you like, something to eat as we watch the herons at the half way point. Wear sneakers or hiking shoes. **DIRECTIONS:** We will meet at the parking lot near the Marina. Enter the park at the Burke Lake Park Entrance on Ox Road (Route 123). If using a GPS to find the park, just key in "Burke Lake Park." More directions are below. After entering the park, go straight following the road as it curves right and goes into the marina parking lot. This will be the first parking lot (not counting some parking along the side of the road) that you come to. Bear right into the lot. We congregate at the area soon after entering the parking lot. **DOGS:** No dogs on this hike. **LEADERS:** Harvey **FEE:** Free **More Directions:** Burke Lake Park is located off Route 123 between I-95 to the south and the Fairfax County Parkway (Route 286) to the north. From I-95, follow 123 North (Ox Road) for 7.5 miles to the park entrance on the right. (If you see the golf course, then you have gone too far. The golf course entrance is the next right off Route 123; this is beyond the park entrance. Good place to turn around, if need be.) From the Fairfax County Parkway, take 123 South (Ox Road) for 2 miles. Turn left into Burke Lake Park. The golf course entrance is the first left off Route 123. The park entrance is the second left off Route 123.

Competitive Commander @ 5 pm $5 Standard and Modern @ 7:30 pm $5 entry Draft @ 7:30 pm $15 entry We suggest arriving at least 30 minutes early to register for the event.

Sci-fi convention

Join the [Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) and [A Fighting Chance Foundation](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about) for a special fundraising event at Lost Rhino Brewing in Ashburn VA on Friday, March 13th. Come out to enjoy a fun Friday night of music, friendship, and great food and drinks, all for two great causes! **Special musical guests** – The Outpatients (Northern VA band well known for their Americana musical mayhem). **Tickets: $10** at the door, with all proceeds benefiting Loudoun Wildlife and A Fighting Chance. Lost Rhino is also graciously donating **10%** of all sales to both organizations. Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy is a volunteer-powered nonprofit working to protect, preserve, and restore wildlife habitat while shaping a Loudoun where people and wildlife thrive together. Learn more at: [https://www.loudounwildlife.org](https://www.loudounwildlife.org/) A Fighting Chance is ensures that all pets are given the best chance possible to recover from a life-threatening medical condition or accident regardless of the financial circumstances of their caregivers. Learn more at: [https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about](https://www.afightingchancefoundation.org/about)

Welcome to the Fairfax Home Board Game Group. I have been running this group for 3+ years, every other Saturday. The group has evolved since I first started, so I thought I should update the description to more closely describe how it runs today. This group is hosted at my home in Fairfax and primarily plays hosted games, meaning a player owns the game and will teach others at the table how to play. Below are some tips for a great first visit and what to expect. *** **Tips for the Best Experience for Newcomers** 1. Check the event messages periodically, and more frequently as the event gets closer. If you see someone hosting a game you are interested in, respond to the post to reserve a space. 2. Watch a "how to play" video for the game you want to play. While the host will teach the game at the table, coming prepared will make for a better experience. Most hosts will post a link to a "how to play" video in their initial post. If you want to host a game feel free to post in the event and see if there is interest! 3. Arrive on time. Games tend to start promptly between 8:30pm and 8:45pm — I make it a rule not to wait past 8:45pm. Please also avoid arriving earlier than 8:15pm; if you get to the house before then, please wait in your car as we are usually still getting last-minute things ready. If you do arrive late you are welcome to come in, but depending on when you arrive there may not be a seat available. The last thing I want is for someone to drive all the way out only to miss the game, so please be on time! =) *** **What to Expect & General Tips** **Game Length** — Most games take anywhere between 2 and 3 hours, including the teach, which means you will typically only play one game per evening. Occasionally a shorter game wraps up early and that group may play a second, but that is more the exception than the rule. **Game Difficulty** — This group primarily plays medium to complex games, and while new players are always welcome — the host will teach you at the table! — it's worth knowing what to expect before you come. If you are looking to play games like Scrabble, Monopoly, Uno, or party games, this is probably not the right event for you. In three years I have seen only two party games played and zero classic board games. **Update Your Status** — Please be considerate of others who would like to attend but may be held back by space constraints. If you can no longer make it, update your status as soon as possible so others can attend — even if there is no waitlist. This also helps me plan seating and choose games appropriate for the number of players. *** In between sessions, join the conversation on our Discord, where we chat about games, minis, and other game-related topics! Discord invite: [https://discord.gg/JyprPCvmMj](https://discord.gg/JyprPCvmMj)

***We have now resumed in-person meetups!*** We are a group of tarot practitioners and enthusiasts who are looking to practice and expand our tarot skills through both collaborative discussion and hands-on practice. Everyone is welcome regardless of skill level, even if you've never picked up a deck in your life! Each month we'll have a topic to discuss together, and when that discussion wraps up the session is opened up to any questions people might have about tarot. We also often break up into smaller groups to practice giving readings to each other. (The giving and receiving of readings are both completely voluntary, so please don't feel pressured!) Having a tarot deck is not required. (If you're looking for recommendations for a first deck, we'll be more than happy to help!) Some have found it helpful to bring pen and paper for notes as well. No fee, however snacks, donations for the tea fund, and gifts of practical items for the shop (toilet paper, paper towels, etc) are always welcome. Use of workshop space agreement at Sticks and Stones: 1. Feel free to arrange and decorate the space before your event, and make sure before you go to leave it as you found it. 2. Hot water and tea are provided by the store and you are welcome to help yourselves. We accept donations in the form of money, tea, paper products (tissues, paper towels, toilet paper) dish soap, etc, to help pay for this free service. 3. You are welcome to bring snacks and drinks to your event (no alcohol.) It is suggested that you bring any utensils and plates if needed, however we might have some available from previous donations if you forget. 4. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times, in all areas of the store. Anyone under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to take any of the workshops/classes. 5. Sticks and Stones respects each and everyone’s spiritual path; we do not discriminate based on race, religion, sexuality, political views, etc. Please be kind and respectful with your discussions, as we have many people from all faiths entering our store during business hours.

Free to play board gaming all day until we close

Come hang out, meet some new folks and explore all things nerdy with the DMV D&D folks at AwesomeCon 2026! We'll explore the stalls, play board games, etc.! **\*\*Please note that [AwesomeCon](https://awesome-con.com/) is a ticketed event and you need a ticket to enter into the convention.\*\*** Can't make it? Join the [DMV D&D Discord ](https://discord.gg/bDvGRtKfhR)to stay up to date on all current events! [https://discord.gg/bDvGRtKfhR](https://discord.gg/bDvGRtKfhR)

Hey, adult Gamerinos! Join the Dulles Area Gaming Group for a fun-filled day of gaming [Eurogame](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eurogame) and [Amerithrash](https://boardgamegeek.com/wiki/page/Ameritrash) style at the Herndon Library! This game day promises to be a fantastic opportunity to connect in-person with fellow adult board game enthusiasts in the Dulles Area. Our group is passionate about board games and excited to welcome new adult members for a day of friendly competition and camaraderie. Bring your favorite games or try out one brought by another player. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the tabletop world, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Don't miss out on this chance to roll the dice, strategize your moves, and have a blast with Dulles Area Gaming Group! We advise players arrive 10 minutes before the start time, since selection of games and instructions begin shortly after. Late arrivals will most likely have a hard time joining a game already in progress. This event is for adults age 18+. There is free parking and free Wi-Fi at this location. We look forward to having you join us!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“A Practical Guide to Social Change,”** a research-based look at how communities bring about reform and progress, with Marissa Robinson, founder of Real Health Impact LLC and an adjunct professor at George Washington University who teaches courses focused on public health leadership and social change. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-social-change](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-social-change) .] Systems built on inequality rarely transform without deliberate pressure from the people most committed to justice, because progress takes coordination, conviction and willingness to change what has always been accepted. Real change starts when people choose to move together. Learn what research and experience say about how to make real social progress with Dr. Marissa Robinson, a public health practitioner who previously worked in federal agencies coordinating global and national public health initiatives focused on infectious diseases, HIV, and health equity. Among the key questions she’ll tackle: How do communities overcome barriers to create real change? When should evidence guide decisions and when does context matter more? She’ll discuss established frameworks for moving from intention to measurable progress and talk about the importance of building coalitions that actually work and of making decisions grounded in real data. You’ll learn about the importance of testing ideas on a small scale before going big, as well as how to use rapid feedback loops and continuous improvement cycles to refine approaches and scale what truly works. Dr. Robinson will share stories of ordinary people and communities who refused to accept the status quo and pushed through real barriers to achieve breakthrough results. She’ll talk about practical strategies, usable frameworks, and evidence-based examples that people can apply immediately in their own communities and organizations to support change that lasts. If you have dreamed about bringing about progress in your world, this talk will give you the clarity, direction, and confidence it takes to turn such dreams into reality. ( Door: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image by Canva.

The party has receive a letter from Clan Duerra, a clan of duergar in Duerradin, a psionic research outpost and trading center. The letter requests their presence at Duerra Spire, where a mysterious figure known as Ios wants to share alarming information with the party regarding The Heir of Orcus and her cult. The Cult of the Heir is operating within Duerradin, attempting to steal valuable technology that will aid the Heir of Orcus...in her quest to kill her father. **This event is hosted using the Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition Adventurers League rules. It is a Tier 2 game suitable for players with advanced experience who have previously played in multiple Tier 1 games.** **Becoming a member in our Discord and accepting our Code of Conduct is required for play at all of our events. You must join and accept the Discord rules before signing up to any MeetUp events. These rules include but are not limited to:** * **Assigning your name and pronouns as your server nickname;** * **Confirming your age as 18 or older;** * **Participating in a respectful environment for both our AL DMs and your fellow players.** **If you do not join the Discord and accept these rules prior to signing up for an event, you may be removed from the MeetUp event or be required to join the Discord and agree to the Code of Conduct at the game table prior to playing.** \*\**[Join us on Discord!](https://discord.gg/mG24YCk7wj) Attending this event indicates that you agree to follow NOVA Adventurer’s League’s Code of Conduct, which can be found in the #code-of-conduct channel on our Discord.*

An ancient dark wizard has hidden three priceless, powerful weapons in his volcanic stronghold. Can you brave its dangers and bring them to light? This event is hosted using the Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition Adventurers League rules. This is a Tier 2 adventure, appropriate for both experienced and relatively new players. \*\**[Join us on Discord!](https://discord.gg/mG24YCk7wj) Attending this event indicates that you agree to follow NOVA Adventurers League Code of Conduct, which can be found in the #code-of-conduct channel on our Discord. You must join and accept the Discord rules before signing up to any MeetUp events. These rules include but are not limited to:* *\- Assigning your name and pronouns as your server nickname;* *\- Confirming your age as 18 or older;* *\- Participating in a respectful environment for both our AL DMs and your fellow players\.*

The mad lich Acererak built the Tomb of the Nine Gods not only to house the remains of Omu’s trickster gods, but also to slay interlopers. However, few today even know the tomb exists, and thus it remains an enigma. Rare are the tavern tales that lure adventurers to its gates, and its horrors remain undocumented in the libraries of Candlekeep. The reason for this is simple: not one person who has entered the tomb has lived to tell the tale. Your quest, should you accept, is to traverse to the heart of this tomb and bring down the evil that lurks in its heart. Legends tell the rewards will be beyond your wildest imaginings. If you survive. **This event is hosted using the Dungeons and Dragons 5th edition Adventurers League rules. It is a Tier 2 game suitable for players with advanced experience who have previously played in multiple Tier 1 games.** **Becoming a member in our Discord and accepting our Code of Conduct is required for play at all of our events. You must join and accept the Discord rules before signing up to any MeetUp events. These rules include but are not limited to:** * **Assigning your name and pronouns as your server nickname;** * **Confirming your age as 18 or older;** * **Participating in a respectful environment for both our AL DMs and your fellow players.** **If you do not join the Discord and accept these rules prior to signing up for an event, you may be removed from the MeetUp event or be required to join the Discord and agree to the Code of Conduct at the game table prior to playing.** \*\**[Join us on Discord!](https://discord.gg/mG24YCk7wj) Attending this event indicates that you agree to follow NOVA Adventurer’s League’s Code of Conduct, which can be found in the #code-of-conduct channel on our Discord.*

[Learn to play Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition! (2024/5.5) We will go through How to read a character sheet, the basics of play, and run a short one shot! (short adventure with self contained story) Please bring a pencil and paper, everything else will be provided **Notes:** *Please join the waitlist even if the event is full! Depending on player interest and DM availability, we add more seats in the order that people join the waitlist.* **Contact**: Questions? Feel free to leave a message here, send a direct message to "Alejandro" on meetup or a direct message through discord @MagicalKuyo.

A Pathfinder Society Scenario designed for 3rd- through 4th-level characters, playable in 2-3 hours. A group of gnomes fleeing harsher restrictions in Brastlewark, one of the largest gnome settlements as well as one nominally ruled by a Thrune sympathizer, has brought terrible news--the self-proclaimed ruler of Brastlewark, King Drum Thornfiddle has been using Hellknight enforcers to crack down on the gnome citizens, as well as forcing many to use their primals magics to mix with diabolical ones in the creation of weapons of war, such as the Jaws of Hell, which saw use in the Battle of Hellknight Hill. The Andoran Army has pushed far enough into Cheliax that destruction of these facilities and liberation of the gnomes is now possilbe, but they can't do both. It's up to you and your fellow Pathfinders to see that the gnomes are safe, and that they can know true freedom, away from the tyrrany of Cheliax and House Thrune. Written by Shan Wolf **Scenario tags:** Hellfire Crisis

Games night is back! With our favorite local game store opening back up, Games night will come back starting Monday June 7th! We are an lgbt+ games group that’s been going for nearly 3 years now! We welcome anyone in the lgbt+ community to come play board games every Monday with our fun and chaotic crew! If you’re brand new to board gaming and looking to make some friends or if you love playing 4 hour space operas and are looking to make some rivals, we’re the group for you! We are an lgbt+ group that focuses on creating a safe lgbt+ community. Non-lgbt+ individuals are welcome when attending with an lgbt+ friend, family member, or partner. Huzzah hobbies currently follows cdc guidelines, where customers who are vaccinated are allowed to not wear masks indoors. With their current hours on Mondays, they are open until 9pm; if they change hours and remain open later, games night will continue until close. If you have any questions, comments, or concerns please feel free to message us here!

[Profs and Pints Northern Virginia](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“The Secrets of Runes,”** on the origins, development, and interpretation of the runic script, with Lilla Kopár, runologist and a professor of medieval literature and culture at Catholic University. [Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-rune-secrets](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/nv-rune-secrets) .] The fame of runes outshines that of any other ancient script. They can be found not just on Viking Age rune stones, but on Bilbo’s door and as the Bluetooth logo on your cell phone. Runic script is commonly associated with magic, used by modern practitioners of neopaganism, and in recent decades has captured the imagination of filmmakers and video game designers. Yet most of us know little about the historical origins of runes and have no clue how to read or use them. Come to Crooked Run Fermentation in Sterling, Va., to get schooled on runic script with the help of Lilla Kopár, a veteran scholar of runes who has earned a following among Profs and Pints fans by giving fantastic talks on medieval monsters and Norse mythology. As someone who has carried out extensive field research on runes, published several articles on runic objects, and even appeared on the History Channel commenting on runes in America, she’s exceptionally qualified to introduce you to runology and the fascinating things that runes tell us. Dr Kopár will discuss the development of runic script from its humble origins on the borders of the Roman Empire in the first or second century CE, through its popularity in the Viking world, to its use and misuse in modern times. She’ll discuss how runes are a set of related alphabets that underwent changes over time and she’ll describe what inspired changes in this writing system and where and how runes were used in the medieval period. Her richly illustrated talk will highlight some of the most intriguing objects with runic inscriptions, from humble bone fragments to impressive rune stones, and offer insight into the scholarly methods of deciphering and interpreting runic inscriptions. We’ll also look at the function of the runic script from simple practical notes and memorial inscriptions to cipher-runes and magic. The most fun might be the in-class assignment, which will involve reading a few runic inscriptions and writing your name and other words in runes. (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. Talk starts 30 minutes later.) Image: Part of Codex runicus, a rune manuscript written on animal skin and dating to about 1300 (University of Copenhagen / Wikimedia Commons).