Day Trips

Drinking & Networking in Brussels. For newcomers, temporary in town - couch surfers and regulars to meet & socialize. What a better day to start the week than drinking & socializing starting on Monday evening?

**🎟️ Cost:** First session is FREE! If you are repeating, the cost is 15 EUR **Reserve your free spot (max 15 participants).** Please register officially to get the exact address: [https://innersparklife.com/drum-meditation-bru/](https://innersparklife.com/drum-meditation-bru/) Are you looking for a safe space to press pause on the busy world? 🌙 Come join *Inner Spark* for a deeply relaxing evening designed to help you release tension and return to your center. Hosted by Pablo and Monika in a beautiful meditative ashram space ✨ You don't need to be a meditator to join. The steady beat of the drum does the work for you, helping your mind quiet down and your body soften. This 75-minute session uses the ancient power of the drum to help you enter a state of deep relaxation and mental clarity. It is perfect for anyone feeling anxious, overthinking, or simply in need of a mental reset. 🧠✨ **The Journey:** 1. **Arrival:** Land softly with a cup of hot tea ☕ 2. **Intention:** Focus your energy with a Tarot card guidance 🔮 3. **The Drum:** Lie down and let the rhythm wash over you 🥁 4. **Integration:** Wake up slowly and share if you feel called to 💫 **📅 Date:** 1 June 2026 **🕤 Start:** 19:30h (Please arrive a few minutes early to settle in) **📍 Location:** Brussels (Woluwe-Saint-Pierre) **🎟️ Cost:** First session is FREE! If you are repeating, the cost is 15 EUR **✅ Good to know:** * Mats, blankets, and cushions are provided. * Wear comfortable clothes. **Reserve your free spot (max 15 participants).** Please register officially to get the exact address: [https://innersparklife.com/drum-meditation-bru/](https://innersparklife.com/drum-meditation-bru/) **Want more?** Join our private Skool community here: 👉 **[https://www.skool.com/inner-spark-tribe-6042/about](https://www.skool.com/inner-spark-tribe-6042/about)**

**Welcome to The Club.** A **curated** social community in Brussels for people who want real connections, memorable experiences, and **better energy than the usual random meetup chaos**. Most of our events happen in **private homes**, gardens, hidden places around Brussels, or unusual locations outside the city. The goal is simple: create the kind of atmosphere where people actually talk, laugh, connect, and want to come back. We organize things like: • gourmet lunches & dinners • picnics & roadtrips • cooking nights • walks around Brussels • karaoke & movie nights • debates & discussions • card and social games • occasional “chaperoned” social evenings where people can meet naturally in a safe environment The difference is that we personally curate and vet new members. The host actively introduces newcomers, helps people integrate into the group, and keeps the atmosphere respectful and relaxed. We have zero tolerance for creepy behavior, unwanted pressure, spam, random uninvited people, or drama. *Unfortunately, posting too many details publicly on Meetup or on the internet in general quickly attracts bots, scammers, fake profiles, crypto weirdos, and people who completely ruin the vibe for everyone else.* That’s why most of our real coordination happens privately through our ***vetted WhatsApp community***. To join, simply scan the QR code in the image. If you are on your phone and cannot scan it directly: • take a screenshot of the image • open the screenshot in your photo gallery • most phones can automatically detect QR codes from photos by long pressing or using Google Lens / iPhone scan feature Then request access to the group and introduce yourself briefly. See you soon

Small curated movie nights in a hidden garden in Ixelles, next to Place Flagey. A mix of: * **cult classics** * **recent movies** * **international cinema** * **comedy nights** * **karaoke & dubbing chaos nights** * **comfort food and summer vibes** **This is not a giant public Meetup** where 40 strangers stand awkwardly around overpriced drinks pretending networking is fun. Humanity already suffered enough. Our idea is simple: we gather in a private home and transform the courtyard into a small outdoor cinema. Sometimes we cook together before the movie: Italian, Thai, Lebanese, Japanese, Balkan, Greek, Latin American street food etc. Sometimes people simply grab pizza from the excellent pizzeria next door and join the screening. Food is intentionally relaxed: bowls, finger food, street food, popcorn, snacks, comfort food. **Some nights are more gourmet.** Some are glorified pizza-and-movie nights. Both are valid forms of civilization **;-)** ## **What makes this different** The group is i**ntentionally small**: usually 6 to 8 people maximum. **People are introduced properly.** Nobody gets abandoned in a corner. The atmosphere stays human, social and safe. **No heavy drinking.** **No creepy behavior.** No random people showing up uninvited. Smoking is allowed because is outside in the courtyard and occasionally we may have **hookah nights** depending on the movie/theme. ## **Typical evenings** * Wong Kar-wai + Asian comfort food * Spaghetti western + Italian street food * Anime + sushi night * Greek cinema + mezze * Balkan chaos cinema + burek * Cult movie dubbing nights where people voice scenes live karaoke-style Yes, this is a real thing now apparently. ## **Important** Because Meetups and public internet are full of bots, spam accounts and socially radioactive individuals, **we do NOT post the exact address publicly.** To join: scan the QR code on the image and request access to the private WhatsApp group or send me a DM. From there: * we announce movies * vote on menus * organize cooking nights * coordinate places **If you are new in Brussels, introverted, traveling, recently arrived, or simply tired of giant impersonal events, this may be your thing.**

Join me and our small group of yogis for a Monday evening reset at Santosha Yoga Studio (Meiser)! 🧘‍♀️ Every Monday from 20:00–21:00 we move through a gentle flow designed to release tension after a long day, especially if you spend hours sitting at a desk. We begin with an energizing sequence to wake up the body, add a small playful challenge to build strength and confidence, and then slow down into calming stretches and guided relaxation. The class is open to all levels, and you’re invited to move at your own pace and make the practice truly yours. Come as you are and leave feeling lighter, calmer, and ready for whatever the week brings. The class is taught in English. First class: 10 EUR. More information: [https://santosha.be/profs/tereza-topkova](https://santosha.be/profs/tereza-topkova)

EN (FR en bas): We're still accepting people in our classes. Join us!​ -step 1: Book here! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservations.html) -step 2: Show up! [Schedule](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#schedule) Fees : [All info on trials, packs, subscriptions here](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#fees) Locations: -Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels Metro/Tram: Mérode Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1: From base to the dancefloor! When you come for the first time we go over the base & rhythm with you. Then you are included in the group and everybody learns the same new steps for which you just need the base. Practice makes perfect: just relax and enjoy Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop and/or Forró! Our group is very welcoming and looking forward to meet new dancers! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2: Ready to go deeper on Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop &/or Forró? Let's go! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#improvers) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3: Looking for #SalsaChallenge? Already familiar with Forró Root? We've got your back! [https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates](https://www.danceproject.be/classes.html#intermediates) More info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be](https://www.danceproject.be) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project) \-\-\-\-\- FR: Nous acceptons encore de nouvelles personnes dans nos cours. Rejoins-nous ! -1ère pas : Fait ta réservation ! -> [https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html](https://www.danceproject.be/reservation.html) -2ème pas : Vient danser ! [Horaire](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#horaire) Les prix : [Toutes les infos sur les essais, packs, abonnements ici](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#prix) Endroits : -Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels Metro/Tram: Mérode Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Intro - 1 : De la base à la piste de danse ! Lorsque tu nous rejoins on voit la base et le rythme avec toi. Ensuite, tu es inclus dans le groupe et tout le monde apprend les mêmes pas pour lesquelles tu as juste besoin de la base. C'est en forgeant qu'on devient forgeron : détend-toi et profite la Salsa, de la Bachata, du Lindy Hop et/ou du Forró ! Notre groupe est très accueillant et a hâte de rencontrer de nouveaux danseurs ! Salsa, Bachata, Lindy Hop, Forró Roots I - 2 : Prêt à approfondir la Salsa, la Bachata, le Lindy Hop &/ou le Forró ? Allons-y! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#inities) Salsa, Forró Roots II - 3 : Tu cherches #DefiSalsa ? Tu connais déjà Forró Roots ? Nous sommes là pour toi ! [https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires](https://www.danceproject.be/cours.html#intermediaires) Plus d’info: -Web: [https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html](https://www.danceproject.be/fr.html) -Whatsapp: +32 493 16 41 10 -Mail: brussels.salsa.project@gmail.com -[Facebook](https://facebook.com/brussels.salsa.project) -[Instagram](https://instagram.com/brussels.salsa.project)

**Tango Classes Every Monday at Tangobar El Lunes!** Embark on a tango journey with our weekly classes guided by passionate and experienced instructors, Sandrina Dh and Daniele Galiazzo. * **Beginners Class (18:00-19:10):** Perfect for those intrigued by tango and eager to take their first steps into this beautiful dance form. * **Intermediate & Advanced Class (19:20-20:30):** Ideal for dancers seeking to perfect their movements, embellishments, and learn new sequences to enhance their dance. *Important:* Always arrive 10 minutes in advance for registration. *Pricing:* * Single lesson: €15 * 10 lessons (membership card\*): €125 (valid for 3 months), with a €10 discount on your next pass purchase (must be prior to the expiration of your current pass). Feel free to share this invitation with anyone interested in the authentic tango experience, Tango Rioplatense! See you in class on Monday night! *\*\*\*Join us at Tango Bar El Lunes, located at Dublin 13, 1050 Bruxelles.For more information, please contact us at info@detangosetrata.com or* *WhatsApp Sandrina +32 473 503405* *We look forward to seeing you at our Monday night milonga and tango classes!*

Join us for a beautiful Sunday combining **Ghent city vibes** and a visit to one of Belgium’s most stunning castles: **Château d’Ooidonk** 🌿 This is more than just a visit — it’s a **full day experience** with an international group: train journey, lunch, city walk, and a guided castle visit. ✨ We will have **2 English-speaking guides** for the castle visit. ## 🌍 Why join? Many in Belgium don’t get the chance to discover places like Ooidonk — this is a great opportunity to explore Belgian heritage in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Expect: - A **guided visit inside the castle** 🏰 - Access to the **beautiful surrounding gardens** 🌳 - A **day in Ghent city center** - A **friendly international group** - A smooth, well-organized experience ## 📅 Event Plan ### 🚆 Optional: Group Departure from Brussels 📍 **Meeting point:** Bruxelles-Central – on the train platform 🕥 **Meeting time:** **10:30** 🚆 Train departure: **10:43** 👉 We will meet directly on the platform and travel together. ⚠️ Exact platform details will be shared in the WhatsApp group. ### 🍽️ Lunch & Walk in Ghent (optional) 🕛 Around **12:00 – Lunch in Ghent** 🚶 Optional walk through the historic center (canals, Graslei, etc.) ### 🚌 Transport to the Castle - Departure from **Gent Korenmarkt** - Bus **12a** - ~25 min ride - 🚶~ 20–25 min walk to the castle 👉 We’ll go together as a group. ### 🏰 Château d’Ooidonk Visit 🕒 Guided tour: **15:00 sharp** ⏰ Arrival: around **14:45** ### 🔙 Return to Brussels We will head back after the visit. 🕖 **Expected return in Brussels: around 19:00** 👉 Of course, you are free to stay longer in Ghent if you prefer. ## 💰 Pricing **€25 per person for Explorer members** **€20 per person for Ambassador and Voyager members** Includes: - Castle entrance - Garden access - English guided tour 👉 Membership required (from €5/year): [https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) ## ⚠️ How to Join (Important) 1. Become a member 2. Join the WhatsApp group (link shared after RSVP) 3. Complete the payment via the links shared in WhatsApp 👉 Your spot is confirmed only after payment. ## 📲 WhatsApp Group The WhatsApp group is essential for: - Payment links - Exact meeting points - Live coordination - Final updates ## ⚠️ Important - Joining from Brussels / Ghent is **optional** - You can also come directly to the castle - Please RSVP only if you intend to join - No-shows impact the group ## 🌿 Optional After the visit, we may go for a drink nearby 🍷 ## ✨ Sunday Vacations Spirit We keep things **easy, social, and welcoming** — no pressure, just good vibes and great experiences. Even if you’re new, it’s very easy to join — we travel and move together as a group 😊

**Afterwork vibes. Sunset views. Great people.** Join us this Thursday for a relaxed rooftop evening above the EU district — the perfect way to unwind after work, meet like-minded internationals, and enjoy Brussels from a different perspective. This is a **small, curated gathering** to keep things social, easy, and high quality. *** ## ✨ What to expect * 🌇 Beautiful **sunset views over Brussels** * 🍹 Stylish rooftop bar (cocktails, wine, softs available) * 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Friendly group of people * 🎶 Chill, classy atmosphere (not a loud party) *** ## 📍 Practical info * **Location:** Sofitel Brussels Europe * **Meeting point:** Rooftop (enter Sofitel and take the lift) * **Time:** After work (see event time) * **Group size:** **Max. 15 participants** *** ## 🎟️ Reservation required (important) To ensure a smooth experience and avoid overcrowding, **a reservation is required**. * **Explorer members:** €5 to secure your spot * **Voyager & Ambassador members:** Included (free reservation) 👉 **Spots without reservation are not guaranteed** *** ## ⚠️ Good to know * Drinks are **paid individually at the bar** * Limitedty → first come, first served * This is a **social rooftop evening**, not a party *** ## 🌍 About Sunday Vacations A community of internationals in Brussels connecting through experiences, travel & good vibes. *** **Come for one drink… stay for the people ✨**

Start your Saturday slowly, connect with new people, and discover the warmth of a traditional Moroccan brunch experience Join us for a cozy and social morning filled with authentic flavours, mint tea, conversations, and good vibes in an international atmosphere Whether you’re new in Brussels, coming solo, or simply looking for a relaxed weekend moment — you’re welcome -- ## 🌿 Experience Overview We’re bringing together a small community brunch inspired by traditional Moroccan hospitality. Expect a generous table with sweet and savoury specialties, tea, fresh juice, and a welcoming atmosphere designed for connection and discovery This is not just about food — it’s about sharing a moment together -- ## 🌍 Event Type 🌍 Community Event ## ✨ Highlights - Authentic Moroccan brunch experience - Traditional Moroccan pancakes & specialties - Fresh orange juice and Moroccan mint tea - Relaxed social atmosphere - Meet internationals, expats, and locals in Brussels - Solo joiners welcome -- ## 🕥 Plan **10:30 AM** – Welcome & introduction **10:45 AM** – Moroccan brunch is serve **11:30 AM** – Social time & conversation **12:30 PM** – Slow ending & free networking -- ## 🎟️ Contribution - *€15 total* - €12 brunch contribution - €3 community organising fee Includes - Moroccan pancakes (crêpes marocaines) - Moroccan mint tea - Fresh orange juice - Olives - Chees - Additional Moroccan brunch specialties ⚠️ *Pre-booking is required.* The venue needs to confirm the number of participants in advance, so tickets must be booked online before the event. Spots are limited to maintain a relaxed and social atmosphere VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code -- ## 🌟 Membership Sunday Vacations Memberships - Explorer — €5/year - Voyager — €50/year - Ambassador — €150/year Members receive access to selected community experiences, priority booking opportunities, and special member-only activities throughout the year -- ## 👥 Who This Is For - International professionals - Expats in Brussels - Curious food lovers - Solo joiners - People looking to meet others in a relaxed setting - Anyone who enjoys culture, connection, and slow weekend moments -- ## 🎒 What to Bring - Your booking confirmation - Your good energy - Appetite for Moroccan flavour - Openness to meeting new people -- ## ❗ Important Notes - Pre-booking online is mandatory - No walk-ins guarantee - Please arrive on time so we can start together - Solo participants are very welcome - Food selection may vary slightly depending on availability -- ## ⚖️ Legal Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts as a community organiser facilitating social and cultural experiences for participants and members The brunch is provided in collaboration with the hosting venue This event is organised as a community gathering and does not constitute a package travel service or travel agency activity Participants attend at their own responsibility -- ## 🤍 Reserve Your Spot Come enjoy a warm Moroccan brunch, discover new flavours, and spend your Saturday morning with great people in Brussels 🎟️ Book your ticket online to secure your place

Shake off the workday and train with a welcoming crew of internationals and Brussels professionals. This is a **co-hosted session with F45 Brussels**—fast, fun, and coached circuit training that fits perfectly after work. **Why join?** * **Community vibe:** Friendly, social, in English. * **All levels welcome:** Coaches demo every move with **easier/harder options**. * **Time-smart:** 45 minutes, full-body, high energy, great music. * **Accountability:** Come with the group, leave with endorphins. **What we’ll do** 1. Quick intro & warm-up 2. **F45 functional circuits** (intervals that mix strength + cardio) 3. Team finisher & cool down 4. Optional post workout social drink/rooftop bowling nearby (meet new people, not just new burpees 😉) **Good to know** * **When:** Thursday, **6:30 PM start** (arrive 6:15 to check in) * **Where:** **F45 Brussels** (Brussels Central Station) Galeries Ravenstein * **Bring:** Clean trainers, towel, water bottle * **Fitness level:** Beginner to advanced (scalable stations) * **Capacity:** Limited spots — **RSVP required** * **Price:** Free weekly tryout **Who this is for** * New in Brussels and want a **friendly fitness + social** routine * Busy professional looking for a **structured, coached** workout * Sunday Vacations regulars who want to stay fit for hikes & trips **About F45** F45 = **Functional 45-minute training**: coach-led, station-based, results-driven. Expect variety, technique tips, and a positive team atmosphere. See you on the floor at 6:30! 💪🏽✨ By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

* 44km expanded route from Mechelen to Leuven—all flat. * Coffee 10h30 \| leaving 11h00\. * Estimated moving time 2h40 not including lunch and some brief stops. * Lunch near the halfway point at a picnic table by the river Dyle—bring your own. * Meet near the entrance to Mechelen train station at [Madmum Coffee](https://maps.app.goo.gl/M8DbfjnRzfn7V6Wj8). * View the route or download the GPX from [here](https://loc.wiki/t/267099617?wa=sc). * If bad weather is forecast this will be cancelled or rescheduled so check this event page before start time. * More general information on the [About](https://www.meetup.com/brussels-cycling-group/) page. * Tel: 04 86 40 6816 **Trains** * Trains run every 15-20 mins between Brussels and Mechelen, and similarly from Leuven back to Brussels. * See [SNBC](https://www.belgiantrain.be/en/tickets-and-railcards/weekend-ticket) for train times. You can't board with a bicycle at Gare Centrale, but Midi and Nord are fine.

Join us for a laid-back **2-hour evening walk** in the green surrouindings of Brussels. Expect a **social, easy-paced stroll** with good company, relaxed vibes, and plenty of time to chat. We'll follow the canal paths and trace the River Zenne, discovering how these waterways shaped the heart of the city. 🕗 **When:** Evening 🚶 **Duration:** About 2 hours 🥤 **Bring your own drink** – something refreshing to enjoy as we walk 💬 **Open to all** – solo walkers, locals, and newcomers alike Let’s walk, relax, and connect—Brussels-style.

***The “Hautes Fagnes” nature park*** is located in the east of Belgium and is ***one of the most special nature reserves in Europe***. It’s an ***exceptional biotope*** with colorful heathlands, special plants and animals. We wil start our hike in ***“Signal the Botrange” (694 m), the highest point in Belgium*** and mostly follow the ***GR 573 to Spa.*** On our way we walk through ***heathland and forests*** and pass by the beautiful ***Hoëgne valley***. ***After our hike*** we continue our good habit of ***taking a nice beer/pancake/snack in a local pub*** in Spa before returning to Brussels. **Please don't forget to pay Maikel a drink :-)** We will walk at ***an average speed of 5km/h*** both on paved and unpaved roads. ***I’ve never walked this road before so it’s possible that there are some mistakes in the planning***. This means it could become longer. ●●***Meeting point*** We meet at ***07h45 in front of Starbucks in Brussels Central***. The train (IC506 - Eupen) leaves from ***platform 3 at 08h01***. It arrives at ***09h22 in Verviers***, where will ***take BUS 390 (Rocherath) at 09h45 at the sation*** to ***“Signal de Botrange”.*** We **arrive at our destination at 10h14** and start our hike in Les Hautes Fagnes to Spa. ●● ***Train tickets*** \- single ticket Brussels to Verviers \(14\,90 € weekend / 9\,00 € with train card\+\) \- single ticket fort he bus \(TEC\) fort he last part to Signal de Botrange \- single ticket Spa to Brussels \(14\,90 € weekend / 9\,00 € with train card\+\) ●● ***Train back to Brussels*** There is a ***train every hour at XX:41*** (L6866 – Verviers) from ***platform 1***. It arrives at ***X1:06 in Verviers*** where we have ***to change to train (IC541 – Oostende)*** who leaves from ***X1:37 from platform 5***. **LAST TRAIN = 21h41** ●● **Specifics** distance: \~ 28 km elevation gain: \~ 218 m net walking time ***(breaks are not included here):*** \~ 6h30 level: ***intermediate – hiking experience is an advantage*** In the unlikely case of too bad weather we may cancel a hike even few hours before the event. If this must happen we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So, it is important to have access to either the [Meetup](http://meetup.com/) website and/or your emails. **●● *What to bring*** \- warm comfortable hiking clothes – *waterproof hiking shoes* \- extra socks to change \+ compeed for blisters \- enough water \(min 2 l\) and food for lunch/breaks \- sun protection oil\, tick repellent\, a hat and sunglasses OR a raincoat (please consult the weather forecast on [www.meteo.be](http://www.meteo.be/)) **\- some cash money to pay Maikel a drink ;\-\)** **●● *Basic rules*** Please RSVP only if **you really intend to come**. And if your plans change **update your RSVP** so other people still have the possibility to join. This is basic courtesy towards others. **People who cancel at the last day (24h) or don’t show up for the hike will be blacklisted for future hikes.** **When you are on the waitinglist it means you should not come to the hike. When there is no +1 function it means you can't bring any guests. Everyone should register for him/her self.** **●● Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability** By signing up for this event you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

Join us for a relaxing brunch at Shawnee Station Tap Room Kitchen! Come enjoy great food, good conversation, and a chance to connect with new friends in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re new to the group or a familiar face, we’d love to have you there! Grab your favorite brunch drink, meet amazing people, and spend a laid-back morning together. Please RSVP so we can plan seating accordingly. Looking forward to seeing everyone!

Join us Tuesday (6/2) at 6:30 pm as we hike the Hundred Acre Woods in Westerville. This is a beautiful trail that is filled of hills and roots but a picturesque wooded landscape to hike. Wear your hiking boots if you have them. We will do 2 loops of the 1 mile trail.

Join us as we take a short summer road trip to downtown Delaware and the historic Strand Theater to see the latest from director Steven Spielberg and what’s likely to be one of the better films we see this year: DISCLOSURE DAY! We’ll pair this fun film with an equally fun dinner at nearby SON OF THURMAN! Should be a great movie, a tasty dinner, and a fun day in beautiful downtown Delaware! Here are details, a trailer and our plan for this event: DISCLOSURE DAY: This epic sci-fi action-drama follows a whistleblower and a meteorologist attempting to reveal proof of extraterrestrial life as they face some unexpected opposition. The film is directed by Steven Spielberg which automatically puts it in the Oscar conversation! The stellar cast includes Emily Blunt, Josh O'Connor, Colin Firth, Eve Hewson, Wyatt Russell and Colman Domingo. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SCYT8vb2siQ MOVIE PLAN: We’ll plan for a 1pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area starting at 12:30pm. Exact showtime will be confirmed/announced as the date gets closer! You can purchase your ticket in advance here. But before you do, be sure to check out the CMG Movie & Popcorn Deal below! Strand Theater Tickets: https://strandtheatreoh.com/tickets CMG MOVIE + POPCORN DEAL: The Strand has what many consider to be the Best Popcorn in the State! They open their concession window for festivals and many are known to stop by for some, whether they’re seeing a movie or not! For our event, the Strand is offering a special deal so you can see for yourself! The CMG Special Deal includes a Movie Ticket, Small Popcorn and Small Drink for just $10! To receive the deal, purchase your ticket when you arrive and let ‘em know you’re with the Columbus Movie Group! ABOUT THE STRAND THEATRE: The Strand Theatre is located at 28 East Winter Street in historic downtown Delaware! Operating for more than 100 years, the Strand Theatre is one of the 10 longest-operating movie theaters in the United Status and one of the few remaining independent movie theaters showing first-run films! The theater offers a variety of programming, including first-run, art house, ongoing events and fun film series! If you missed last year’s event there, haven’t been there (or haven’t been in a while), you are in for a treat! In addition to the historic theater, the entire downtown area has been completely revitalized with lots of great restaurants and shops! ABOUT SON OF THURMAN: Family-owned since 1942, The Thurman Café in Columbus is a legendary local restaurant that has received national acclaim for their legendary Thurman Burger, great food and fun atmosphere! Son of Thurman is part of that family of restaurants that brings the Thurman experience to Downtown Delaware and will be our dinner location for this event! In addition to their namesake burger, their menu features a huge array of appetizers, sandwiches, subs, wings, pizza, vegetarian options (like the Thurman Veggie Burger), and more! We’ll have a table reserved for the group! When you RSVP, please indicate if you plan to join us for the dinner portion of the event. You can check out their menu here: https://sonofthurman.com/ OFFICIAL CMG T-SHIRT EVENT: Did you get one of our CMG 2024 Tour of Columbus T-Shirts or 2025 Road Trip T-Shirts? While you can wear them any time, we’ll make certain events Official CMG T-Shirt events where we’ll ALL try to wear them! This is one of those events, so wear ‘em if you got ‘em! Look forward to seeing you at this fun Summer Road Trip Adventure, Dan

**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.

Ladies, join us for a fun Women’s Night Out at VASO Rooftop! Come enjoy rooftop views, delicious food, cocktails, live music, and great conversation in a fun and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re looking to meet new friends, unwind after a long week, or simply enjoy a night out, this is the perfect opportunity to relax and connect with other amazing women. Dress cute, bring your positive energy, and get ready for a fun evening of laughter, music, and rooftop vibes overlooking Dublin! Please RSVP early so we can plan seating accordingly. Looking forward to a great night out together!