Dating and Relationships

**[Ticket needed](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/art-exhibitions/other-art-events/watercolor-workshop-7412127382847384776.html)** **Craft personalized, unique cards in this hands-on Aquarelle (Watercolor) class!** In this course, you will learn how to paint with watercolors. The focus is on landscapes. We use nature as inspiration for our artwork and learn to understand the techniques of fine arts. Ideal for a creative and inspiring evening or as a solid foundation for painting. 📲 Join our WhatsApp chat to keep up with the event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3) (if you run into trouble open it in WhatsApp Web on your desktop) **Please Note:** This ticket is **non-refundable**. Photos may be taken during the workshop for promotional purposes. **​Want more events like this? Join our WhatsApp community:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IN37htEEuH2Gdl73EQCqGV) **No experience is required. Just bring your festive spirit!** In case you cannot find us here is Ravi's number : +41 76 224 26 99

This is our study group for beginners! All you have to do is join our online meetup and bring your interest for learning to program! Please, also [join our Slack](https://rubymonstas.ch/join-slack). We meet in a community space at Zollhaus in Zürich. Go up the stairs between Zollstrasse 111 and Zollstrasse 115 (at the Restaurant Santa Sete) and walk around the building until you see a big window facade where you should be able to see us. Then knock an we'll open up for you. :) For the time being, our meetups also happen remotely. You can join via the link to the video conference: [https://rubymonstas.ch/meet](https://rubymonstas.ch/meet) We're looking forward to meeting you all, Yours Ruby Monstas team ;)

Hi there! I’m happy you have come across **Afro Dance Fitness classes**! Are you interested in group fitness (all levels) or dancing, Afrodance and Working out in a group of likeminded women to Afrobeats music, then this is for you! Afro Workout is an Afrodance inspired Dance Fitness Class in Zürich that combines dynamic dance moves and intensive Workout to Afrobeats. Similiar to Zumba but to Afro music including dance movement, fitness and sculpt. Afro is all about Good Vibes! Expressing a joy of living, to be confident and feel good in your body. Classes take place **every Monday from 7-8 pm** in Zürich Altstetten. For all levels! You don’t have to be a dancer or a fitness geek. Party, Dance and sweat with us to Afrobeats! First class is always free for first timers! Sign up for the FREE class [Free class](https://afroworkout.as.me/free-class) Please always sign up and RSVP to every class, via Meet up Event, [Email](vanessa@afroworkout.com) vanessa@afroworkout.ch, DM on Instagram or Sign up link on Website. There will be always more people in a class then shown on Meet up. Don‘t hesitate to sign up via above mentioned channels. Can‘t wait! Check daily updates and classes on [Instagram](https://instagram.com/afroworkout.ch?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=) Website for more information and class info [www.afroworkout.ch](https://www.afroworkout.ch) Move, Dance and Stay Fit to Afrobeats!

Join us for the weekly Language Exchange! 🚀 Language Exchange WhatsApp Chat https://chat.whatsapp.com/C36TAgOl8Ei5qsWMNPZpHU Join the weekly Language Exchange (every monday) to work on your language skills, socialize and meet cool and open people. 💡HOW DOES IT WORK💡 1. Come to the location (for Spring and Summer the event will take place on a outside)☀️🍹 2. The Event Host will greet you🤜🏽🤛🏾 3. Choose the language flag that interests you and speak the language of the flag🇪🇸🇬🇧🇵🇹🇮🇹🇩🇪🇨🇭🇫🇷 4. Start talking with people around the world and improve your language skill💪🏽💭

**[COURSES 2026](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/adult-courses)** *Next course: [Acting Shakespeare](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/acting-shakespeare-intermediate-mondays-5-jan-2-may) (Intermediate) - Monday 5 January.* \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **More about CET** **Unleash your inner star at Zurich’s English Performing Arts hub!** From acting, improv, comedy writing… to Broadway-style classes, there’s a stage for everyone at Close Encounters Theatre. **Close Encounters Theatre** is **Zurich’s premier English-speaking performing arts academy**, offering dynamic **acting, singing, dancing, comedy writing, learning german, improv classes and more** for **children, youth, and adults** — from beginners to experienced performers. We host **live shows and community events** like open-stage nights, improv jams, and variety performances, creating a vibrant creative hub for expression, connection, and fun. In addition to training and productions, CET also offers **corporate workshops and private coaching** that use theatre techniques to build confidence, communication, presentation skills, and team cohesion. **We want to help people grow creatively and personally through performance arts in a supportive, playful environment.** Next classes: **[https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/adult-courses](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/adult-courses)** * [Present Yourself](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/present-yourself-fridays-9-jan-30-jan) * [Acting Shakespeare (Intermediate)](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/adult-courses) * [Acting for Beginners](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/acting-for-beginners-wednesdays-7-jan-11-apr) * [Physical Comedy & Mask for Beginners](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/physical-comedy-mask-for-beginners-thursdays-8-jan-16-april) * [Improv Academy Beginners / Intermediate](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/improv-academy-intermediate-tuesdays-6-jan-25-apr) * [Sketch comedy writing](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/sketch-comedy-writing-course-level-1-thursdays-15-jan-29-march) * [Broadway Jazz Dance Beginners](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/broadway-jazz-dance-beginners-mondays-5-jan-28-apr) * [Tap Dance for Beginners](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/tap-dance-for-beginners-wednesdays-7jan-15-apr) * [Jazz & Heels Dance](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/jazz-heels-dance-technique-for-beginners-fridays-9-jan-27-march) * [Broadway Academy Beginners](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/broadway-academy-beginners-sundays-11-jan-28-apr) [/ Intermediate](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/improv-academy-intermediate-tuesdays-6-jan-25-apr) * [Voice Intensive Beginners](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/voice-intensive-beginners-tuesdays-6jan-14-apr) [/ Intermediate](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/improv-academy-intermediate-tuesdays-6-jan-25-apr) * [Stage & Production Design](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/stage-production-design-wednesdays-14-jan-15-apr) * [SPEAK UP! Learning German through Theatre](https://www.closeencounterstheatre.com/events-1/speak-up-german-tuesdays-6jan-14april) We hope to see you soon :)

**What this is** Bank-desk feel without the stress. We refine playbooks, review trades, mark up charts, and keep each other honest on risk. **Where** Motel One Zurich, bar area. Head to the bar and ask for Financial Network Zurich. **When** Mondays, 19:00 to 22:00 19:00 arrivals and setup 19:20 market wrap and key levels 19:40 trading style analysis, indicators and strategy sharing 21:00 Open Networking **How we roll** Process first. Discipline always. Profits follow. **Bring** Laptop or a device where you can access your broker or charts. **Food and drinks** Order food and drinks with the waitresses whenever you like. **LINKS** Community Owner’s Direct (All Infos & Questions): Alessandro +41 76 279 32 84 WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/DCSSmdHj7xr6F39ZAAWubX Financial Network Zurich: https://www.meetup.com/entrepreneurs-focus-and-network-workshop/ Founder’s Links (Alessandro): https://linktr.ee/alessandronfthyme

I'm really excited to announce our next Meet Up event. It will take place at Core studio in Rennweg Rennweg 12, 8001 Zurich. Luna Flow is a graceful fusion of ballet technique and yoga flow, designed to sculpt, lengthen, and restore your body. In this class, you’ll combine ballet based techniques for the strength and pose with the grounding breathwork and mindful stretches of yoga. Expect fluid sequences, elongated lines, and deep stretches that leave you feeling balanced, centered, and strong — all while moving with moonlit elegance. Perfect for all levels, Luna Flow is your time to align, lengthen, and shine from the inside out. Open to all levels. You will need to bring a smile, some water and wear comfortable exercise cloths. There's a small cost to cover the venue and facilities - CHF 40.- For more details about the training provider please see: https://www.balletbodysculpture.com/ballet-body-sculpture-classes-in-zurich

Speed Dating in einer stilvollen und gemütlichen Bar im Herzen von Zürich. Ein unvergesslicher Sonntag an dem du viele spannende neue Singles kennenlernst. Tickets unter: https://barflirt.ch/produkt/%f0%9f%92%9e-speeddating-zuerich-alter-38-50/ Ist doch viel besser als einfach nur alleine zu Hause zu sitzen?! Und wer weiss, vielleicht findest du jemanden, mit dem du im Anschluss noch den Abend ausklingen lassen kannst. Und der erste Drink geht sogar auf uns! **So läuft dein SpeedDating mit uns ab:** **16:00 Eintreffen und Bestellung Drink (Bier, Wein, Sekt usw.)** **16:20 Beginn SpeedDating** **17:45 Abschluss SpeedDating und gemeinsamer Ausklang an der Bar (Platz für weiteres beschnuppern und kennenlernen).** Die Frauen bleiben sitzen, die Männer rotieren jeweils nach 8 Minuten an einen neuen Tisch / Platz. Am nächsten Tag könnt ihr über unsere Webseite abstimmen, wer euch gefallen hat und welche Singles ihr gerne wiedersehen möchtet. **Wir wünschen euch jetzt schon ganz viel Spass und natürlich ganz viele Matches!**

Are you looking for a way to start your Sundays on the right foot? Look no further! Our weekly Sunday morning yoga class is the perfect way to energize your mind, body, and soul. This Sunday morning yoga class is designed to help you relax and find inner peace, leaving you feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the week ahead on a positive note. In this class, you will experience a combination of physical postures, deep breathing and mindfulness that will help to reduce stress, improve your focus and concentration, boost your energy levels, and enhance your overall well-being. You will also develop greater body awareness, increase flexibility, and strengthen your muscles. The peaceful and calming environment will allow you to disconnect from the world and focus on your own well-being. This is the perfect opportunity to prioritize self-care and invest in your physical and mental health. The hybrid yoga class, both online and in-person, is for everyone. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned yogi, you'll benefit from this yoga class. I promise that you will feel much more relaxed, recharged and rejuvenated after this yoga class, 100% guaranteed :) Your contribution: 25 CHF (online live, first time 15CHF), 30 CHF (first time 15CHF, in the Yoga Studio at Oerlikon, Zurich). Note: We're excited to announce the new Referral Program! Share your love of yoga with your friends or colleagues and receive a free class for every referral who signs up. Plus, your friends can enjoy their first class for just 10 CHF. Please let me know which format (online or in-person) you like to join. See you on the mat :)

Discover the magic of Aerial Yoga - a practice that not only enhances flexibility and builds strength but also offers a unique way to relieve stress on the spine and alleviate lower back pain. The hammock gently supports your body, allowing for deeper stretches and decompression of the spine, making it an ideal practice for anyone seeking both physical and mental relief. **Why Join?** **\* Relieve Spinal Stress**: The anti-gravity nature of Aerial Yoga helps to decompress the spine, reducing tension and promoting spinal health. **\* Alleviate Lower Back Pain**: Experience gentle inversions that stretch and strengthen your back, providing much-needed relief from lower back discomfort. **\* Accessible to All Levels**: Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned practitioner, Aerial Yoga is adaptable and welcoming for everyone! **\* Boost Flexibility & Strength**: The hammock supports your body, enabling deeper stretches and enhanced core stability. **\* Stress Relief & Relaxation**: Unwind in a tranquil environment, letting go of the day’s stress as you float through the air. Spaces are limited, so secure your spot today and embark on a journey to a healthier, happier you! ✨ Class in English // Open-level (beginners are all welcome :)) ✨ Props provided or bring your own ✨ Location: Zürich Oerlikon, Wattstrasse 3, 8050 Zürich ✨ Please contact me if you like to join / Registration via [Yoga Nest Eversports page](https://www.eversports.ch/s/yoga-nest-1) See you in the hammock :)

**[>>Ticket needed<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/brunch-surprise-activity-7409610437715558609.html)** **🥐 Brunch. Vibes. And a Plot Twist. ✨** Love spontaneity but hate over-planned events? This is for you. Join us for a relaxed brunch where the only requirement is showing up. **The Schedule:** 1. **Phase One:** Brunch & Chill. No pressure, just good food and conversation. 2. **Phase Two:** The Surprise. After 45 minutes, we let the group decide the rest of the day via a live poll. **Good to know:** * **Decide Together:** We vote on everything from park hangouts to hidden gems. * **Zero Pressure:** Not feeling the winning activity? No worries—staying for the "after-party" is optional. * **Cost-Friendly:** We prioritize free or budget-friendly fun. **Note:** This is a self-organized, host-free event. The magic happens because you show up! **Ready to vote?** Join the WhatsApp group to shape the day: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/G30uQHN5b6BJluGiJbyFhq](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G30uQHN5b6BJluGiJbyFhq) ​​P.S. Pictures might be taken during the event, if you do not want it please let the organizer know. Tickets are **non-refundable.**

**[>> Ticket needed <<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/social-dinner-karaoke-7412124207620840014.html)** 🍵 Matcha Dinner & Karaoke Night 🍣🎤 Join us for a relaxed and fun evening that starts with Japanese food and matcha — and ends with karaoke, tapas, and lots of laughs. 👉 **Please join the WhatsApp group for event updates and coordination:** [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JRFHQScOLFi8Mf29OwDotb](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JRFHQScOLFi8Mf29OwDotb) **📍 MARU Restaurant** **18:50 – Optional Matcha Introduction** Arrive a bit earlier for an introduction to matcha. Learn the basics, taste it, and if you like, try making your own. ✨ **A** **matcha voucher is included** in your ticket. **19:00 – Dinner at MARU** We’ll sit down together for a cozy dinner at MARU Restaurant and enjoy great food and meaningful conversations in a warm atmosphere. Check our app to see what you have in common with other guests. **21:00 – Karaoke at Toro Bar** After dinner, we head to **Toro Bar** for their famous Thursday Karaoke Night. 🎶 Over **30,000 songs in 8 languages** 🍷 Tapas & drinks available 💃 No singing skills required — cheering is just as welcome 🎟 Ticket & Important Info * Ticket price: **15.– CHF** * Matcha voucher included (food & drinks at MARU are paid individually) * Karaoke is free to join; drinks are paid individually 👉 **Creating a profile on [www.social-circle.app](http://www.social-circle.app/) is required to join this event.** 📸 Photos and videos may be taken during the event for community and promotional purposes. Let the host know if you do not want to be on them. ⚠️ Tickets are non-refundable. Come for the matcha, stay for the dinner, and finish the night on stage — or at least singing along. 🎤🍵

[Ticket needed (click here) ](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/dating/other-events/brunch-museum-visit-singles-only-30-45-y-7413209500268634710.html) 🥐 Brunch & Museum of the Future **Singles only \| Ages 30–45** Want to meet new people in a relaxed and meaningful way — without loud bars or forced small talk? Join us for a **curated brunch followed by a shared cultural experience** at one of Zurich’s most exciting exhibitions. 📲 Join our WhatsApp chat to keep up with the event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FoJN0DzRQgF232huSHiGOi](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FoJN0DzRQgF232huSHiGOi) (if you run into trouble open it in WhatsApp Web on your desktop) We begin with a cozy brunch at **Uhmami**, a stylish and welcoming spot known for its high-quality food and relaxed atmosphere. Expect thoughtful conversations, mixed seating, and an easy, natural way to connect with other singles in your age group. After brunch, we head together to the exhibition **“Museum of the Future – 17 Digital Experiments.”** This immersive exhibition explores how **digitalization and artificial intelligence** are reshaping the way we experience art and museum objects. Transformed into a future lab, the museum invites you to explore, interact, and reflect — offering perfect conversation starters and connections that go beyond surface-level chat. Discover **17 experimental installations**, including the **largest digital image ever created**, and get a glimpse into what museums of the future might look like. 🖼️ Museum of the Future – 17 Digital Experiments 📍 Ausstellungsstrasse 60, 8005 Zürich 🗓️ On view until 1 February 2026 ✨ Why join? * Meet **like-minded singles (30–45)** in a natural, pressure-free setting * Connect through a **shared experience**, not just small talk * Enjoy the perfect mix of **social interaction and culture** * Ideal for those who appreciate **deep conversations, curiosity, and good vibes** ℹ️ Practical info * **Brunch location:** Uhmami – [https://uhmami.ch/ueber-uns/](https://uhmami.ch/ueber-uns/) * **Included: Welcome drink & museum entrance** * **Limited spots** to keep the group balanced and intimate Come solo — leave inspired, connected, and maybe with someone new to explore the future with

Meet like-minded ladies and gents in a relaxed, welcoming setting in Zurich this New Year! Our Fast Friending evening is designed for ladies & gents who appreciate real conversations and meaningful connections. Whether you're new to the city or expanding your circle, the atmosphere encourages comfort, openness, and genuine interaction—without pressure or awkwardness. **You will need to buy a ticket for attending -** [https://zurich10thjan.eventbrite.co.uk](https://zurich10thjan.eventbrite.co.uk) \*You can use any debit or credit card to purchase your ticket at PayPal checkout. It will ask you for your email address but that is only to send you a receipt. You do not need a PayPal account. TICKETS:- Early bird - CHF 10 Regular ticket - CHF 15 Cash at the meetup - If you have not purchased your ticket in advance then you can pay CHF 20 per person in cash on the day of the meetup to Daryna (Please bring exact change) 'Fast friending' is our fun and quick way to help you make new connections quickly with both ladies and gentlemen. These are people in the age group of 21 and 35 and so you will be on a similar wavelength. Naturally you can always choose who to speak with based on your preference! **Here’s how our Fast Friending works:-** \- We will meet at 7\.00 and have time to get settle down and get a drink\. \- From about 7\.30 to 8\.30 we will run the fast friending system\. Half of the group \(mixed gender\) will stay in a fixed place and the other half of the group \(mixed gender\) will be asked to rotate\. During these intervals\, each pair of people will get the opportunity to talk to each other\. \- Daryna will be hosting the evening and she will organize the fast friending process\. She will indicate when you should move to the next person\. \- From 8\.30 onwards we will stop the system and people will have to chance go chat and interact with those they have met as well as others\. If you are a bit shy or anxious then please come early. Daryna will help you meet other members in a small group and help you settle down and get comfortable. **Our venue for the evening -** Oskar Kowalski Bar is spacious, has comfortable seating and not very noisy. We have a reserved area where our members can meet each other in a supportive environment. \- We are not a close knit tight group\. Our evenings are warm and comfortable for members attending for the first time and those coming alone\. You will not feel alone\! \- We have many groups in this city\. Members of our other groups who RSVP are included as guests of the organisers in order to give you an indication of expected people\. \- This evening is for ladies and gents in the 25 to 40 age group\. \- Our evenings are not about 'dating' or for 'romantic' connections\. 'Fast friending' is NOT 'Speed dating'\. 'Fast friending' is designed to help members meet other like minded ladies and gents\. It is about new friendships and connections\. Naturally\, new friendships can lead to dating or romantic connections\, but that is not our focus\. Why do we have tickets? 1. Cover our costs - Our host is compensated for their time and work. We also pay meetup and have dedicated staff to manage our events, hosts, venues and communication. 2. Group Safety - By securing your ticket we have a record and you contribute to a well organized evening where everyone is more committed and better behaved. 3. Management - Tickets help us better manage attendee group size, book suitable space and activity. ABOUT [fastfriends.co.uk ](https://fastfriends.co.uk/)- We have connected members successfully for the past 10 years in over 30 cities (operating as Expatsclub, MeetConnectDevelop and fastfriends.co.uk). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- You can contact our founder Dan on +447715705005 with any questions or ideas. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Here are some videos which will give you some guidance and comfort to make your attendance more productive.** Secrets of socializing at our meetups - [http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing ](http://bit.ly/secrets-socializing) How to make new friends - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v6GB0Hc_bSs) How to make people like you at our socials -[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K4guProkKrI) Why you should attend our evenings - [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEjwGBXzJE8) Member feedback - [https://youtu.be/bF_oxrWGqus?si=8ewukkeawt1N12nm](https://youtu.be/bF_oxrWGqus?si=8ewukkeawt1N12nm)

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

This is a free in-person meeting. Let's talk about relationships in such a way that you can really benefit from the knowledge. We can talk about * Soulmates * How to start a relationship * How to maintain a relationship * How to pick the right partner * How to recognize the red flags * How to improve communication * How to avoid argument and fights * How to increase trust You ask the questions, we'll talk about them. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

This is a free in-person meeting. Let's talk about relationships in such a way that you can really benefit from the knowledge. We can talk about * Soulmates * How to start a relationship * How to maintain a relationship * How to pick the right partner * How to recognize the red flags * How to improve communication * How to avoid argument and fights * How to increase trust You ask the questions, we'll talk about them. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

This is a free in-person meeting. Let's talk about relationships in such a way that you can really benefit from the knowledge. We can talk about * Soulmates * How to start a relationship * How to maintain a relationship * How to pick the right partner * How to recognize the red flags * How to improve communication * How to avoid argument and fights * How to increase trust You ask the questions, we'll talk about them. Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there. This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.

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