Dating Again

**Become a better speaker and leader with Stadi Talkers Toastmasters Club!** Welcome to Stadi Talkers Toastmasters Club, a proud member of Toastmasters International, the global non-profit organisation dedicated to teaching public speaking, presentation, pitching, and leadership skills. Our worldwide network of clubs helps individuals grow personally and professionally through practical, hands-on experience. **New to Toastmasters? Join us as a guest!** We invite you to attend our meetings as a guest to see what Toastmasters is all about. You can choose to participate in our impromptu speech session or simply observe and get a feel for our community. Our welcoming environment is designed to support and inspire you, whether you're just starting out or looking to hone your skills. **Meeting structure** Our meetings typically include the following segments: * Table Topics™ (Impromptu Speeches): *4-7 short speeches (1-2 minutes each)* * Prepared Speeches: *2-3 in-depth presentations (5-7 minutes each)* * Evaluation Session: *Constructive feedback to help you improve* No matter your profession, the skills you develop at Toastmasters will enhance your ability to communicate effectively, pitch ideas confidently, and interact positively with others. These are lifelong benefits that will serve you well in any career or social setting. **Learn more and connect with us** For more information about Toastmasters International, visit [www.toastmasters.org](http://www.toastmasters.org). However, the best way to truly understand the value of Toastmasters is to experience it first-hand. Guests are always welcome, and you can even try your hand at our impromptu speech session if you feel inspired. Connect with us on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/stadi-talkers) or [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/staditalkers/)! *Meetings start at 18:00. We recommend arriving early to mingle with club members before the program begins.*

Join us for the Cafe Lingua Mondays. We have hosted official events at Kallio Bar - Hämeentie 12. Event 800 is on 22nd September! Registration is at - [https://stafftribes.com/events](https://cafelingua.smartfrends.com/events) \-\-\-\- I have negotiated amazing discounts on drinks every Monday!! Brooklyn Beer - 6 types to try!! Inc. 0% option * Brooklyn Beer bottle 5€ <---- norm. 7.90€ * Blanc Rosé normally 5€ <---- 8€ * Karhu tap beer just 3€ <----- norm. 6,50€ per bottle.= more than 50% cheaper! WOW Wow Wow!! :) Just show your registration for the current event on [https://cafelingua.smartfrends.com/events](https://cafelingua.smartfrends.com/events) Make your preferred languages profile there and let the Smart Match Engine help you connect before, during, and after the event. Connect with me - [https://cafelingua.smartfrends.com/members/Paul](https://cafelingua.smartfrends.com/members/Paul) \- you can also then more easily find ACTIVE members who also want to do a 1 to 1 language exchange for example \- yay\. That's never worked in our Facebook group\. boo\. Thank you, Kallio Bar, Brooklyn Beer & Tribe Networks Oy! <3 \-\-\-\- We had an amazing group of people and a growing number of volunteer language hosts: Spanish, English, Russian, and Persian. Check out the pictures from last week on ur socials. Want to be a Language Host? FREE Brooklyn beer per event you help. Let's talk on Monday. \-\-\-\- This is a FREE event and not for profit :) Want to help or volunteer? Start by sharing the event on your social media and then send us a screenshot - after we will send you a link for our Ambassadors Tribe. Ambassadors will: 1\. be invited to an exclusive monthly VIP event and 2\. get discounts on other events we organize 3\. you will be one of the Cage Lingua Heroes \- helping us to connect humanity\! 4\. Meet other cool people \- be the center of the network\. So far we have helped over 100 000 Foreigners and Finns to connect! \-\-\-\-\- Our Cafe Lingua Monday events are sponsored by: Brooklyn Beer Aperol Spritz Kallio Bar (It's a new bar so not on the maps yet.) & Tribe Networks Oy Looking forward to seeing you there! ## Paul & Marja-LiisaCafe Lingua Co-Founders 2005044 0255 844Let's connect --> [https://stafftribes.com/members/Paul](https://stafftribes.com/members/Paul) or follow me on LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tribenetworks/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tribenetworks/)[https://cafelingua.smartfrends.com/events](https://cafelingua.smartfrends.com/events)[[TribeNetworks.ai](http://tribenetworks.ai/)]([http://tribenetworks.ai/](http://tribenetworks.ai/)) Want to intern with us? We have helped over 500 graduates on their career journey! We were voted best service to the city by Helsinki Sanomat readers --> [https://stafftribes.com/inthemedia](https://stafftribes.com/inthemedia) ## Get experience on real lifestyle-type projects, have fun, no stress, and build your network. Find out more: [https://startupintern.mystrikingly.com/](https://startupintern.mystrikingly.com/) Are you an Event Expert for hire? Add your profile for free at [https://experts.spiritofmycity.com/](https://experts.spiritofmycity.com/) ## We do lots of pro bono projects. One of our biggest examples is the Refugee Action Tank - check [https://react.mystrikingly.com/](https://react.mystrikingly.com/) to learn more. If you have some ideas on how we could collaborate get in touch. Join our other communities: [[StaffTribes.com](http://stafftribes.com/)]([http://stafftribes.com/](http://stafftribes.com/)) for professional networking via sports and events. [[SportsNetwork.fi](http://sportsnetwork.fi/)]([http://sportsnetwork.fi/](http://sportsnetwork.fi/)) to find new active friends or organize healthy/sporty activities 25x better than WhatsApp / messaging tools. Do you have a community at your workplace or uni? Do you want to get your colleagues off their screens and apps, get active together, and get to know each other better? Get in touch for a demo. We make our products branded in your image for your own private network. Fantastic for events, and team building and at the same time helps reduce screentime significantly. Follow us on [https://www.instagram.com/cafelingua.ai/](https://www.instagram.com/cafelingua.ai/) and follow our main sponsor company [https://www.instagram.com/tribenetworks.ai/](https://www.instagram.com/tribenetworks.ai/) See you in person soon! Paul 044 0255 844 ps: last week we had 25 guests, registration is NOT no meetup so don't worry how many people are signed up here. tho it helps the event if you sign up here, like, and share. More people = more language options and more fun for everyone

**Welcome to Mafia Mondays, hosted by FINE.** **Mafia (also known as Werewolf and many other names) is a social deduction game where some players secretly join the mafia and everyone else tries to figure out who they are. Expect dramatic speeches, wild accusations, and plot twists with lots of laughter. No previous experience needed, we explain everything at the start of each event and every time new people join.** ### **Time & Schedule** **Our Winter season of Mafia runs from 15.12.2025 – 30.03.2026** **Every Monday** * **19:00–21:00 – Mafia games in the clubroom** * **18:00–20:00 – Women’s sauna** * **20:00–22:00 – Men’s sauna** **You can join or leave at any point in the evening. We’ll run several rounds of Mafia, keeping the night flexible for everyone.** **No Mafia Mondays on the first Monday of each month:** * **05.01.2026** * **02.02.2026** * **02.03.2026** ### **Location** **Hopeatie 10, 00440 Helsinki** **(Pohjois-Haaga HOAS Clubroom)** ### **What’s happening?** * **Games of Mafia hosted by FINE** * **Pool table, table tennis, and various games** * **Music keeping the vibes up** * **Access to sauna (bring your own towel and sauna wear)** * **Low-pressure, cozy hangout – come alone or with friends** ### **Price & Tickets** * **Price: FREE,** * **Ticket: Reservation must be made through KIDE find tickets here: [https://kide.app/events/b2fdf2f6-268c-4def-97b0-4e10422298ac](https://kide.app/events/b2fdf2f6-268c-4def-97b0-4e10422298ac)** ### **Who is this for?** * **Young adults (18–30) who enjoy games and stories** * **People who want sober-friendly, low-threshold evening activities** * **International and Finnish students – English-friendly (Finnish is welcome too!)** **No need to be an actor, strategist, or “good at games” if you can point at someone dramatically and say “I swear I’m innocent”, you’re ready. 😄** ### **What to bring** * **Towel & sauna things if you want to join the sauna** * **Water bottle / non-alcoholic drinks** * **Comfortable clothing (wool socks, your favourite sweater, etc.) for sitting, chatting, and playing** ### **Vibe & Code of Conduct** **We follow FINE’s principles of a friendly, respectful, and inclusive environment. No harassment, no bullying – only playful accusations inside the game. Outside the game, we’re all on the same team and sportsmanship is a must!** **Come play, relax, and accuse your new friends of being secretly mafia.** ### **Join our group chat!** **Join over 200 community members in our group chat for updates about all of our social events:** **👉 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IVaibUK9j47IrNhucYFfKy](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IVaibUK9j47IrNhucYFfKy)**

Embark on a journey of creativity and relaxation as you explore different artistic mediums. Immerse yourself in a sculpture painting workshop and discover a variety of techniques and styles. Led by experienced painting masters, our workshops provide expert guidance and insider tips to enhance your skills. We supply all the necessary materials, from paints and brushes to sculpting tools, so you can fully immerse yourself in the creative process. At the end of each session, take home your unique masterpiece as a memento of your artistic journey! Reserve your spot today by pre-booking through the links below. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to tap into your artistic potential. Join us at GTC Cafe's painting workshops and let your creativity soar! You can also arrange this workshop for special events, birthdays, or any other occasion to enjoy with friends. Simply let us know your preferred date at least one week in advance. We can't wait to paint with you!

Join us on **Fridays, 18:00 - 19:30** at **Lapinlahden Lähde** for a free session where we’ll explore the topic of the week. After 19:30, you're welcome to hang out with us. Depending on what the group decides, we sometimes: \- go out for dinner \- stay in\, enjoy tea and cookies and play board games ✅ Your **RSVP counts as your registration**, we expect you to **honour it**. 🤝 All conversations are confidential. What’s shared, stays in the group. 🌿 Small group, big heart: Everyone gets a chance to share. 🧘‍♀️ Come comfy, come curious. 💧 Bring water. Skip heavy meals & caffeine. 📍 **Tallipääty, Lapinlahdenpolku 8, Helsinki** (Through the gate, first door on the left!) **Kind reminder:** Last-minute cancellations or no-shows mean others miss out. To keep it fair, repeated cases may result in losing the spot in future sessions. If you want to be part of the MIITTI community, follow us on our other platforms: IG: [instagram.com/miitti1](http://instagram.com/miitti1) Facebook: [facebook.com/miitti1](http://facebook.com/miitti1) Web: [lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti](http://lapinlahdenlahde.fi/projekti/miitti) Whatsapp: Join our Whatsapp community network to join your favourite group and stay connected with the other members! When you participate in one of our groups or events, just ask the group facilitator to add you to the community!

Coffee Talk – Helsinki Coffee, conversations & new connections ✨ Join us for a warm and relaxed afternoon over coffee. Whether you are new in Helsinki or already living here, this is the perfect chance to: • meet new people (especially open-minded and friendly women 💕), • chat, laugh and share stories, • expand your circle of friends and create real connections. No pressure, no agenda – just good vibes, interesting people and a cozy atmosphere.

**🎨 Keramiikan Maalaustyöpaja – Vapauta Luovuutesi! 🏺** Liity mukaan **keskiviikkoisin klo 16** ja **lauantaisin klo 13** rentouttavaan ja hauskaan **keramiikan maalaustyöpajaan**! 🌟 **Miten se toimii?** * Valitse suosikkisi **kymmenistä keramiikkatuotteista**, kuten mukeista, vaaseista, hahmoista ja muista. * Suunnittele ja **maalaa oma taideteoksesi** valitsemillasi väreillä. * Ota upeasti maalaamasi keramiikkatyö mukaasi kotiin muistoksi! Tarjoamme **kaikki tarvittavat materiaalit**, mukaan lukien keramiikan, maalit, siveltimet ja muut tarvikkeet. Työpaja sopii erinomaisesti **perheille, ystäville ja yksin osallistuville**. Ikäraja **6 vuotta ja vanhemmat**. 📍 **Missä?** GTC Café 🎟 **Paikkoja rajoitetusti – varaa paikkasi nyt!** Tule mukaan luomaan jotakin kaunista! 🎨✨ **-** **🎨 Pottery Painting Workshop – Unleash Your Creativity! 🏺** Join us every **Wednesday at 4 PM** and **Saturday at 1 PM** for a fun and relaxing **Pottery Painting Workshop**! 🌟 **How It Works:** * Choose from **dozens of pottery pieces**, including mugs, vases, figurines, and more. * Pick your favorite design and **paint it however you like** using our wide selection of colors. * Take your beautifully hand-painted pottery home with you as a unique keepsake! We provide **all materials**, including pottery, paints, brushes, and everything you need to bring your creativity to life. This workshop is **perfect for families, friends, and solo participants** looking for a creative and enjoyable experience. Suitable for **ages 6 and up**. 📍 **Where?** GTC Café 🎟 **Limited spots available – book your session now!** Come and create something beautiful! 🎨✨ Book Now

【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】 * The purpose of social games is to know some people, do some exercise and enjoy the games together with others. Winning and getting points is not the focus of this session. Please play with consideration to your opponents' level. * Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) 【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】 * Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game) * We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list) * It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/social-game) to see if there is still a slot available there. * The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost. 【FEE and REFUND POLICY】 * Fee includes courts and plastic shuttles. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event. * Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter. * You can put a comment to sell your slot after the deadline of refund, or sell your slot in our whatsapp group. * No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence. * Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you was there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't come to use it. 【COMMUNICATION】 * Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347) * There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected. 【OTHERS】 * Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you! * If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond. * We play double games to 21 points. After each game, please let those who are waiting to play. Feel free to play with whoever you want, but please avoid playing with the same people all the time. * If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you. * Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work. * Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken. [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing) * [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/) * You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" * https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/[https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)

【IMPORTANT SUMMARY】 * The purpose of competitive game session is to enjoy badminton games by focusing on trying your best to win the games. * You don't need to be a very good player to join this session. Our level range from beginner to intermediate. We will put you to play with people with similar level. But if you are the first time to come and I don't know your level, then I will put you to play with less-experienced players to start. * Please purchase your slot through this link [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/) Please also read the instruction inside this link, so that you have an idea how it works. * Please bring feather shuttles to join the games. We only accept specific shuttles. Please read the following. **If you come without bringing feather shuttles with you, I may ask you to go home.** 【SIGN-UP SYSTEM】 * Please sign up and pay through this link. [https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) * We don't use the signup system on Meetup.com anymore. (Neither the waiting list) * It says this event is full on this meetup page, because I didn't open any slots here for you to sign up. You have to check this [sign-up page](https://7538e9.myshopify.com/products/competitive-game) to see if there is still a slot available there. * The background of using an external sign-up and payment system is because Meetup.com introduced a service fee to increase 21% of the fee in May 2023, and we want to reduce this cost. 【FEE and REFUND POLICY】 * Fee includes courts and the work I do to continue this group. Please sign up and pay before you come. NO refund if you do not cancel until 48 hours before the event. * Racket: bring one or rent one at the counter. * No matter the reason is sickness, accident or anything, the group or I will not afford the cost caused by your absence. * Of course you CAN'T ask me, "Can I sign up for free for next week because I didn't come to use my slot this week?". Please remember, the court booked for you is there and it costs money. The court doesn't simply become "free of charge", just because you didn't show up. 【COMMUNICATION】 * Communication: our whatsapp group [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JJQbJlisbcj5YDnlcSu347) * There are too many spams, so I only accept +358 number to join whatsapp group. Numbers from other countries will all be rejected. 【DETAILS of COMPETITIVE GAMES】 * This is the list of shuttles we accept: RSL Classic Tourney Li-Ning Super 1000 Victor Smash It 1 Victor Smash It 2 Yonex Aerosansa 30 Ling Mei Gold Ling Mei Black * Smash Center also sells feather shuttles (Ling Mei Gold and Black). You can purchase there at your arrival. 【OTHERS】 * Please always keep 1 meter away from those courts where people are playing. Never step into the corners of other courts! If I see you do this, I probably will yell at you! * If you have some questions, you can put your questions in the comments on the event page. People will respond. * If you are new to badminton, please Google basic badminton rules in advance. Serve rules, double rules and point counting rules. You are always welcome to ask anyone in our group. Most of our members are more than happy to help you. * Badminton activity is organized for non-profit purpose, but I take a small fee for my work. * Want to restring your racket? I can do restring for you. €24 including the string. Please get contact with Ken. [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XdBBBKBmsHqvMyI7t1MttqOxwX8rs7vQ/view?usp=sharing) * You want to pay with your sport card or voucher? check the bottom of the page. Click "read more" [https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/](https://www.meetup.com/Helsinki-Badminton-Meetup/)

🔥 Sauna Session – Helsinki Sauna & relaxation session in Helsinki. A calm and grounding moment designed to slow down, relax, and enjoy a shared experience in a peaceful atmosphere. 📅 Date: Sunday, January 4th, 2026 ⏰ Time: 13:00 – 15:00 📍 Location: Löyly, Helsinki This session is about: • relaxation and well-being • simple conversations in a calm space • enjoying the sauna at your own pace No agenda, no pressure just a structured moment to disconnect and reset. 🧖‍♀️ Swimsuit & towel required ☕ Optional drink after the sauna ⚠️ Limited spots – participation must be confirmed in advance. — Jasméa Coffee Club

## 🏓 Winter Singles Pickleball League \| Ages 20s\, 30s & 40s **Hosted by DateColumbus** **[Registration Through Eventbrite - Click Here!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-singles-pickleball-league-tickets-1975043737987?aff=oddtdtcreator)** Looking to meet new people OFF the dating apps this winter? Join us for an **8-week Singles Pickleball League** designed to help you connect, move, laugh, and meet other active Columbus singles — IRL. **📅 Thursdays, January 8 – February 26** 🎟 $160 (PLUS FEES) **⏰ 6:30–8:30 PM** **📍 Paddle Taps \| 535 Lakeview Plaza Blvd\, Worthington\, OH 43085** *** ## 🏓 What to Expect * 💬 A fun, easygoing way to meet singles in their **20s, 30s & 40s** * 🎾 **Beginner-friendly!** Instructors onsite for the first 30 minutes of Weeks 1–3 * 🔄 **Open Play Format** Rotate courts + partners often = tons of chances to connect Winners stay one round, then rotate * 🍻 Food + drinks available at Paddle Taps’ full bar and restaurant * 🏓 Paddles available each week — or bring your own * 💬 Eat, drink, mingle before/after games * ⏳ Runs every Thursday for 8 weeks Whether you’re experienced or brand new, you’ll fit right in — this league is all about connection, not competition. *** ## ⭐ IMPORTANT — READ THIS ⭐ **This is a PAID event. Meetup RSVP does NOT count as registration.** You **must purchase a ticket on Eventbrite** to participate. [👉 ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-singles-pickleball-league-tickets-1975043737987?aff=oddtdtcreator)**[DateColumbus Winter Singles Pickleball League LINK HERE!](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-singles-pickleball-league-tickets-1975043737987?aff=oddtdtcreator)** Spots always fill fast — grab yours early!

The January Ohio North Database Training user group meeting will be held on **January 6th, 2025 at 5:00PM**. This will be a **HYBRID** event and we will be joined online by **Jason Romans**. You're welcome to come meet in-person at our meeting location, the offices of Improving at **[6000 Freedom Square Dr,](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** **[Unit 110,](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** **[Independence, OH 44131](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Improving/@41.4004167,-81.6614462,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x8830e5b8255c5919:0xd8297060eb68fe04!4m6!3m5!1s0x8830dc7a0fe35dc9:0xbfc4710ecadfc5c!8m2!3d41.4004127!4d-81.6588713!16s%2Fg%2F1hm3hkqp3?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDQzMC4xIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)** [Teams Link ](https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_N2Q3ODVjM2YtNDQ1NS00MDBjLWI5MzYtNDQ3YmFlZjkzMjAx%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22b966f302-6b93-4686-9041-c084635642c5%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2278c760cb-657f-46aa-bd2f-7066d9403bdb%22%7d)if anyone needs it after RSVP-ing for in person. If you would like to subscribe to our email list outside of Meetup, we have changed platforms recently and you will need to register [here in Kit ](https://ohio-north-data-training.kit.com/b8f036f615)instead to receive emails. Agenda: **5:00 PM EST**: Online and in-person meeting begins with a social hour. This is an unstructured hour where you can join us to catch up and meet other group members before the session starts. There will be food brought in for in-person attendees. **6:00 PM EST**: Updates and announcements, followed by our feature presentation. See below for presentation details. **7:30 PM EST**: Optionally after the main presentations, the in-person crowd may go out for snacks and drinks at a local establishment. We hope to see you there! Session Abstract **Data on Fire: A Hands-On Intro to Spark in Fabric** Curious about Apache Spark but not sure where to start? This hands-on session introduces you to Spark in Microsoft Fabric Notebooks—a powerful and accessible way to process and analyze big data using familiar tools in the Microsoft ecosystem. We’ll break down key Spark concepts like distributed computing, DataFrames, and lazy evaluation, then show how they come to life inside Fabric’s notebook experience. You’ll see practical demos that cover loading, transforming, and analyzing large datasets—while leveraging Fabric’s modern data stack, including OneLake, Dataflows, and Pipelines. You’ll also learn how to choose between Spark and pure Python notebooks in Fabric, based on execution needs, data integration, and use case fit. Whether you're a SQL pro, BI developer, or data engineer, this session will give you the tools and confidence to start using Spark in your own projects—no cluster management required. \*Please note, that we will be using Microsoft Teams for the online portion of this meeting. You may want to join a few minutes early to ensure you do not have any issues. If you are attending in person, there are large TVs at the office, and you do not need to bring a laptop or use Teams.