East London

☕ **Ealing Social Coffee Meet Up – Our First Ever Coffee Morning!** We’re excited to invite you to our very first Ealing Social Coffee Morning - a relaxed and friendly chance to meet new people, enjoy a great coffee, and spend time chatting in good company. Join us in beautiful Walpole Park at Pitzhanger Pantry for an easy-going meet up where everyone is welcome. Whether you’ve been to our evening events before or this is your first time joining us, it’s a great opportunity to connect in a more laid-back daytime setting. And please don’t worry about coming on your own - most people do! It's always a friendly crowd. We will meet at just outside Pitzhanger Pantry just before 12 noon Come along, grab a coffee, and say hello. We’d love to see you there ☕🌿

## 🌍 **Travel Now — London Chapter** Welcome to the London Chapter of **London Travel Now** 👋 This is a relaxed, community-powered **travel social meetup** for people who enjoy exploring, planning trips, sharing tips, and meeting fellow travelers—both online and in real life. London Travel Now is a **multi-city travel social community**. While we host in-person meetups like this one, most connections start and continue on our online platform: 👉[ ](londontravelnow.com)**[londontravelnow.com](londontravelnow.com)** That’s where members chat, share ideas, plan trips together, and stay connected between meetups. *** ✈️ *Travel for Free (yes, really)*\* We get asked this a lot, so here’s the simple version: \*\*Trip organizers travel free on the trips they create and run.\*\` If you: * Plan the trip * Handle the bookings * Bring the group together your spot on the trip is covered. \*Free applies to the trip organizer once the trip reaches minimum participants and is confirmed. Everyone else pays their own share. No travel industry experience required—just organization, reliability, and enthusiasm. *** ☕ **Where we meet** Meetups are kept simple and accessible—central cafés, pubs, or casual venues around London. There’s no formal agenda and no presentations. Just show up, grab a drink, and chat. (Exact venue details are always listed on the event page.) *** 🧭 **How this meetup works (important)** This chapter is part of a **community-led social network**. * Meetups are informal and community-powered * The main London Travel Now organizer may not attend every event * Attendees cover their own food and drinks * There may or may not be a designated host at each meetup Think of this as a casual, drop-in **travel social**, not a guided or hosted event. If you’re comfortable introducing yourself, joining conversations, and helping create a friendly atmosphere, you’ll fit right in. *** 💬 **WhatsApp community (recommended)** We also have a shared **London Travel Now WhatsApp community** with spaces for different cities. 👉 Join here: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/GjmFuzbk0baFavZRN0JGTz](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GjmFuzbk0baFavZRN0JGTz) Inside the London space, members: * Coordinate meetups * Ask questions * Share travel ideas and trip plans * Stay connected between events Joining is optional, but it’s the easiest way to stay in the loop. *** 🗓️ **What to expect** * Friendly, informal travel conversations * Trip ideas, tips, and shared experiences * Meeting people you may want to travel with in the future * A low-pressure, welcoming environment This is a **community meetup**, not a tour, class, or sales event. *** 🙌 **We’re looking for Chapter Organizers** As London Travel Now grows, we’re looking for local **Chapter Organizers**, including here in London. Chapter Organizers help: * Host or co-host meetups (weekly or monthly) * Choose simple, accessible venues * Welcome attendees and help spark conversation * Create and organize trips for the community Trip organizers travel free on the trips they run.\* No prior experience needed—just reliability and a friendly attitude. 👉 Learn more or apply here: **[www.londontravelnow.com/apply](londontravelnow.com/apply)** *** ✨ **Come along** New faces are always welcome. Bring curiosity, a travel story, or just yourself. This community works best when members help make it welcoming—we hope you’ll be part of it.

Join us for cricket practice nets organized by East London Cricket, associated with Millwall Stars CC. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be a part of the East London cricket scene and make a difference together!

* We will meet at the Jubilee Plaza outside the Canary Wharf tube station, by the Canary Wharf sign (pictured below). Aim for the West exit following the DLR signs. Don't worry if you end up in Upper Bank Street. Just turn right into the Jubilee Park and you will see the group at the other end. * We will then make our way via the Jubilee Park and Blackwall Basin to see the Traffic Light Tree sculpture. Then we will carry on via South dock, Millwall inner dock, Clippers quay and Millwall park. We will then cross the Thames via the Greenwich foot tunnel. This walk is not suitable for people who are not comfortable with confined spaces. * We will emerge from the tunnel by the Cutty Sark. She was built on the River Leven, Dumbarton, Scotland in 1869 for the Jock Willis Shipping Line, she was one of the last tea clippers to be built and one of the fastest, coming at the end of a long period of design development for this type of vessel, which halted as steamships took over their routes. * We will then pass by the Old Royal Naval College (pictured above), see the Chapel of St Peter and St Paul and finish our walk athr Queen's House (free entry) to see the art collections from the nearby Maritime Museum (also free entry). Cutty Sark DLR Station is 5mins away. The Greenwich Observatory is 10mins away. Optional drinks/lunch at the local pub at the end of the walk. The walk is free for members who have subscribed for an annual membership. For other members the fee is £5 cash/card on arrival to contribute towards the organiser's meetup fees and costs. The annual pass option is £15 payable by cash/card on the day. This will provide access to at least 40 walks per year (members are welcome to bring a guest to each event). All walks are free for the NHS staff (also welcome to bring a guest). What to bring: Comfortable footwear Water Photo-taking gadgets and chargers An umbrella just in case (it's London after all) ***'No Show' Policy:*** *If the member replied 'yes' but did not attend the event, did not update the RSVP and did not inform the organiser on 3 occasions – this triggers an automatic removal from the group. That's once for events with a waiting list.*

★★★ DRENA! SBK PARTY ★★★ London's Biggest Kizomba, Salsa & Bachata Party - 2 Rooms \- 10 years & counting \- 350\+ dancers every month\! \- 2 Rooms: Kizomba & Salsa/Bachata \- TOP Dj's & Teachers \- Dance Classes incl \| GENERAL INFO \| · 8:30PM - Doors Open · 9PM - Lessons (Incl in ticket price) \- Kizomba & Salsa/Bachata Lessons: \- 3 Levels: Beg\, Imp & Int/Adv · 10PM-2:30AM - Party · 1:30AM - STRICTLY LAST ENTRY \| PRICING \| \- £11 Entry incl Classes \- Adv booking from Website: **[https://rvdance.co.uk/events-and.../kizomba-party-in-london/](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Frvdance.co.uk%2Fevents-and...%2Fkizomba-party-in-london%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExd2h6QkhVYWEwMmV4Z3pRWAEeCtPmgZfWG7hE08jgijpJ-Z3_C1XdM9vBQw9D8uMXp6KHvLa6mRFRM8sQZHs_aem_bBte6Cw_7ZVspJ-l8OSN7Q&h=AT1blLDTS0OG2EfYykacK07c8GtW4NSnXTzZd0QwnVJZS9SQjQUXFaLN81PafgkCz7CSYg2_Rn7_pgf4NRJmzg49dH0oI3dR1fgr_GU4cBK6YmPd6e5PdXaLXpR2Xf4_6rex01Y_8770UoHKGr4&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT3ecRdjktkRoADtKSdU9N21SWzP05uYXAUu6RfyEvfxLbU9XcOglyozFwHa9C5vPSmPr8GCATEsLYFSI6E_92EjYtlwT1RahmED-AZKLrCrEcNYziYswuARnUpdb10YmvYfizZaPiLb3Xh7V3mhOm7iXP1WFVhYKVI)** \- Adv booking closes 5pm day before \- £14 Cash on the door \(CARD ONLY\) \- Mandatory Coat/Bag check £1 per item \*NO OUTSIDE DRINKS OR CHEWING GUM ALLOWED\* \| VENUE \| 85 Angell Road, Brixton, London, SW9 7HH (8min walk Brixton Tube) \- Full bar & AC Established for over 10 years now, Drena Party is THE must attend dance event of the month in London. TOP UK and international Dj's every month. This event is all about ENERGY, ADRENALINE, GOOD VIBES, GOOD MUSIC and GREAT PEOPLE! Join us and come feel it for yourself - You will not be disappointed! \| FUTURE DATES \| \- Sat Jan 11 \(2nd sat\) Dress Theme: Show Your Style \- Sat Feb 8 \(2nd sat\) Dress theme: Black & Gold \- Sat March 1 Dress Theme: Animal Print \- Sat April 5 Dress Theme: Denim Or Diamonds \- Sat May 3 Dress Theme: Floral \- Sat June 14 \(2nd sat\) Dress Theme: All White Party \- Sat sept 6 Dress Theme: Sunset party (red, orange, yellow) \- Sat oct 4 Dress Theme: Leather & Lace \- Sat Nov 8 \(2nd sat\) Dress Theme: Afro-Chique \- Sat Dec 6 Dress Theme: Xmas Bash More info? Contact Us: Mobile/WhatsApp: 07528722813 Email: contact@rvdance.co.uk website: **[www.rvdance.co.uk](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rvdance.co.uk%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExd2h6QkhVYWEwMmV4Z3pRWAEerpxaerLpWhW_r8owge_5sUPwEsAEOKvjYkETjWIQrW47fBAItAQJzSANpU8_aem_2aFNUWF7FAFwmPyKSqpmEQ&h=AT1DZa2RkZams8wKqJ6Rmmwv6Rw01FAbD1ILLRX7wOW9TqEdePFlBOpZY9vlt1K3ONBJjNJn1ioh8M0OHcdytwVJ4JhW8L6LVBhZxVTSbCwEkeOS1gSzyzWFavnCAFPJqugVBX2yuZfP2wuaU1s&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT3ecRdjktkRoADtKSdU9N21SWzP05uYXAUu6RfyEvfxLbU9XcOglyozFwHa9C5vPSmPr8GCATEsLYFSI6E_92EjYtlwT1RahmED-AZKLrCrEcNYziYswuARnUpdb10YmvYfizZaPiLb3Xh7V3mhOm7iXP1WFVhYKVI)** Insta: [https://www.instagram.com/rvdance_co/](https://www.instagram.com/rvdance_co/) Whatsapp community: [https://bit.ly/rvdancewhatsappcommunity](https://bit.ly/rvdancewhatsappcommunity) Telegram channel: [https://t.me/LondonSBK](https://t.me/LondonSBK) Youtube: [https://www.youtube.com/c/Rhythm&VibesDanceCo](https://www.youtube.com/c/Rhythm&VibesDanceCo?fbclid=IwAR1f4LPjVNmxEmfhf3ySJwzIuMgqwYhlMcy1qUwgXsXN-cGZf-HZs3YqKxk) X: x.com/RVdance_co

The allure is intoxicating, almost irresistible. A succession of exquisitely beautiful townscapes, infinitely variable and constantly changing, yet somehow all coherent parts of a magnificent production, like a Mozart concerto. Every view seems curated, polished and prepared. There’s no litter, no chewing gum, and no security guards! Yet this is traditional ‘public space’\* This is the central area of Kensington\*\*, smallest yet most densely populated London borough, home to Grenfell Tower, and Kensington Palace. It is simply great: no one would not want to live here. I promise you, by the time we reach ‘The Blackbird’ you will be ready to give up your Vow of Poverty, and move heaven and earth, to move here! In fact, when our New Town Master Planners aspire to ‘urbanity’, in their new developments, Central Kensington might well be what they have in mind. Part of the explanation is, of course, ‘money’. Oodles of it. Capitalism spends money to make money, and there’s ‘investment’ here: in every project, every house, every shop. It seems to have increased local authority spending too: York stone footways, in perfect condition, and most roadways recently resurfaced. ‘The Conundrum’ is, that this very high quality public realm seems to be unachievable elsewhere. How has this come about? Do the best quality areas become unaffordable? Or does wealth lead to good quality? It’s hard to believe, but in Kensington’s centre, from the High Street to Cromwell Road, and from Warwick Road to Queen’s Gate, there are, today, no socially rented homes *at all*, according to the official maps. Today the borough has the lowest proportion of social housing in Inner London (22%), and some of its most expensive houses. Across the whole borough, there are about 7K council-owned flats, plus the philanthropic providers' 12K more. But they are mostly in big estates in the southwest corner or far north: World’s End, Lancaster West and Dalgarno Gardens. It was not always so. From 1726 there was a workhouse. In the 1860’s terraces were built in Blithfield\*\*\* Street for ‘the working classes’ made homeless by District Railway project, and some ‘workers’ cottages’ in Pembroke Place became ‘a notorious slum’, Wait ‘til you see them now. And at the very edge of our area, in Warwick Road, Arup Associates more recently built 115 flats for the council: more than half are now ‘Right-to-Buy’ leaseholds. To address ‘The Conundrum’, we’re going to meet at High Street Kensington Station, and walk through these, the oldest and most disorganised streets of the borough, from the ‘Old Court Suburb’\*\*\*\* nearest to Kensington Palace, heading south and west, following approximately the chronological path of the area’s development, from the earliest 2-storey terraces, to Victorian semi-detached villas, towering 7-storey stuccoed Italianate blocks, and late-Victorian and Edwardian mansion flats. Now almost exclusively housing, the western parts of the area also once exhibited commercial, light industrial, and educational and healthcare activity, and along the way we’ll see the impact on the area of the the arrival of the District Railway in the 1870’s, the Cromwell Road extension just before WW2, and the West London Air Terminal in 1957. Our walk leads directly to ‘The Blackbird‘ PH, opposite Earl’s Court Station, where our reserved table is being prepared. Hope you can come! Andy \*could it be that residents get straight into their cars, and don’t walk along the streets dropping litter and gum? \*\*= the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea, created in 1965 from a merger of the Metropolitan Boroughs of Kensington, and its tiny neighbour, Chelsea. \*\*\*sic \*\*\*\*the development of Kensington Square in 1685, an urban space among the fields. It was actually started a few years *before* King William and Queen Mary moved their residence, for health reasons, to a mansion then called Nottingham House, now ‘Kensington Palace’.

This Women’s Day, we’re gathering for something simple and meaningful - a relaxed, walk-focused afternoon dedicated to celebrating small wins, good conversation, and the kind of growth that often goes unnoticed. This event is for women only. 📍 **Plan** We’ll meet at **Hermanos Colombian Coffee (Blackhorse Road area)** at **12:00pm**, settle in briefly, and then head towards **Walthamstow Wetlands (Forest Road entrance).** Walthamstow Wetlands is Europe’s largest urban wetland nature reserve and home to herons, cormorants, great crested grebes, and if we’re lucky… maybe even a kingfisher sighting. No promises, but eyes up 😉 The afternoon will be mostly walk-focused, with a gentle stroll through nature and a short reflective pause along the way - nothing intense, just a small intentional moment to mark the occasion. Depending on the weather and group energy, we may stop at the café inside the Wetlands for a short break. On our way back towards **Walthamstow Central**, we’ll make a light bakery stop before wrapping up around **3:00pm**. ⛅️ If London weather decides to be London weather, we’ll adapt the route and spend more time indoors while keeping the spirit of the gathering intact. Please Bring your ID as some Venues in London might request it at the entrance. Please Mind your social behaviour and personal belongings, the organiser accepts no liability. Thank you :)

***Please read the whole description before signing up.*** TF Clapham is a friendly environment of people looking to play casual, free football. We welcome all genders, ages(over 18), skill levels etc.. It doesn't matter if you are semi-pro or have never played a day in your life, everyone is welcome. **PLEASE READ:** Terrible football always has a wait list for Clapham. We have a lot of regulars who have been enjoying our group for years. If you sign up and can not make it, you must drop out by 8pm Saturday. If you drop out later you will be taken off any games you sign up to play the next weekend. We are strict on this rule as we like the games as even as possible plus someone else could have made it off the wait list. You have to join the whatsapp group for the exact location. We play between the skate park and band stand. **Set up:** Clapham is set us as one 11 aside game. We make 2 teams of 11(as evenly as possible skills wise) and play two 45 minute halves with a break in the middle. **GAME RULES:** 1\. Rotate keeper every 10 minutes\. Everyone must go in 2\. No slide tackles\. 1 warning only\. This is due to it being casual and varied in skill level\. 3\. Be inclusive\. Pass to everyone and be positive\. Anyone who says anything rude to another player will be warned once and then asked to leave\. We recommend you wear plastic studs(metal are not allowed) or AstroTurf boots. Shin pads are optional but most people don't wear them. We have colour bibs so please wear what you want in those regards. What’s app group where we share location, please add yourself: YOU WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED INTO THE WHATSAPP CHAT IF YOUR NAME ON WHATSAPP CANNOT BE FOUND ON MEETUP TF MEMBERS LIST. https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ja4kSQfvl1rJciUMMpFVwr

Join us for social bridge without the formality of a tournament. All abilities welcome. Advice on bidding and play is available to those who are still learning the basics. We are privileged to be hosted by Asia and her team at the Cool Carrot, whose curries, cakes, beers and wines I can vouch for! There is a £1 fee to cover Meetup fees (or £5 per year) and there is no table fee provided you spend at least £10 in the café (otherwise £5).

Step into the gas-lit streets of Victorian London and uncover the chilling story of Jack the Ripper. This evening walking tour takes you deep into Whitechapel, where one of history’s most notorious serial killers stalked his victims. Follow your expert guide as you: Visit the actual sites of the Ripper’s murders Explore hidden alleys and cobblestoned lanes Hear the true stories of the victims and the suspects See rare photographs and police reports Learn how the crimes shocked London — and the world Your guide will separate fact from fiction, using historical evidence and forensic insight to paint a vivid picture of life in East London in 1888. ⚠️ **IMPORTANT**: Attendance Confirmation Required To help us manage attendance, please complete the form below if you will be attending. You will only be added to the confirmed list once the form has been completed. **Confirm here:** https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfO_ujT7S1q-3EiZgkxHfPxJGgG8CnlYNCrHqQkLPNXmEC4Gw/viewform?usp=header If you are unable to join, please just send us a message to let us know.

Join me for a new regular walk... **The Gardens of South London & Vegan Delights** \~ Nature, food & Walking 😊 We'll gather from 11.30am to 11.45ish, outside Kennington station \~ Bring, or buy, vegan picnic food to share 😊 ( if too chilly, we'll find somewhere vegan/vegan friendly to have lunch ) We'll explore gardens and parks, picnic in a park, and afterwards, walk as far we like, maybe including the Thames. See you there 😊 \~\~\~ DETAILS \~\~\~ Each month we'll explore the gardens & parks of South London, have a vegan potluck picnic lunch, or find a vegan or vegan friendly place in colder weather, and later, weather permitting, head down to the Thames via Vauxhall or Bermondsey. The route may vary slightly each month and we may go west or east down the Thames later. Latecomers, we can meet you by the café in Kennington park, or I may post a restaurant name or pub we may be in. Looking forward to exploring South London & enjoying vegan delights 😊

Hi all, cost, & info below £5 Only, beautiful circular 4.5 mile walk only (not tour), which starts and ends at Baker Street Station. As we will be on the top of Primrose Hill at the halfway point there will stop for everyone for about 10 mins so if you wish to bring a small pack lunch we can sit looking at the wonderful view before heading off 2nd part of the walk back to Baker Street Underground Station DOGS ARE ALLOWED ON THIS WALK Join us for an amazing walk that includes Regents Park, Boating Lake, Regents Canal, and Primrose Hill for an amazing walk with incredible views overlooking London. Regent's Park is one of the Royal Parks of London, the park is Grade I (highest) listed on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens. The 166-hectare (410-acre) with open parkland, gardens and wonderful lake Regents Canal provides a link from the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union Canal, Paddington Basin in the West to the Limehouse Basin and the River Thames in East London. The canal is 8.6 miles (13.8 km) long. The Regent's Canal was built during the early 19th century after an Act of Parliament was passed in 1812. Noted architect John Nash was a director of the company that produced a masterplan for the Prince Regent to redevelop a large area of central North London Primrose Hill is a Grade II listed public park located north of Regent's Park in London, England and first opened to the public in 1842. It was named after the 64 metres (210 ft) natural hill in the centre of the park.The hill summit has a clear view of central London, as well as Hampstead and Belsize Park to the north. Baker Street Station Toilets women's toilets are on the main ticket hall next to 'Photo me' booth. Men's toilets on Platform 5 where the old railway signs are **COST** £5 cash/card payment by simply turning up on the day. There is no charge to RSVP beforehand on the Meetup event. Walks are normally 90% full before the day, so an early RSVP is advisable to avoid disappointment. WHERE TO MEET Please meet by the Sherlock Holmes Statue, the front of Baker Street Station on Marylebone Road **AFTER SOCIAL DRINKS/FOOD** The Metropolitan Bar - JD Wetherspoons by Baker Street Underground Station. Tables cannot be reserved at Weatherspoon pubs so it may be scattered tables for the group or standing if busy. **TERMS AND CONDITIONS** PLEASE ensure ARRIVAL at least 15 minutes BEFORE the start of the walk, sorry no latecomers are accepted for whatever reason. Members attend the unique walks from our different meetup groups. IF LATE, SORRY WE ARE UNABLE TO RECEIVE CALLS OR ANSWER EMAILS AS WELCOMING MEMBERS, LEADING THE WALK, AND CONCENTRATING ON THE SAFETY OF THE GROUP. PLEASE DO NOT BE LATE, YOU WILL NOT BE ABLE TO CATCH THE GROUP UP, PLEASE ARRIVE EARLY TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT. Part Tour - Medium pace walk from 'Visit England' Award-Winning Guide and our group featured in the National Press! Please Note: Some events, being a large attended meetup group will be an organised walk only, but members are very welcome to organise their own get-togethers after the event. You are required to be fit and healthy with appropriate footwear & clothing, responsible for meeting at the correct location, own safety and to not lose the group by viewing the organiser/making the organiser aware as much as possible, or follow/not lose sight of the person(s) from the same walk in front. We advise carrying water and some snacks. The organiser is also not responsible for any circumstances that may affect the group or personally such as personal accidents, rail information, engineering works, cancellations, rail strikes or delays, heavy traffic, tours affected, weather, walk paths or routes closed, postcodes for car parks or for when we arrive back at the station, or anything else not mentioned! By joining the event you agree to all the terms and conditions. We really look forward to welcoming you on the walks/tours for a wonderful, great, fun day!

Walk length 6miles/10km approx. Linear. A chance to explore the London streets from Blackfriars to Euston on a guided city stroll passing many iconic landmarks but with particular emphasis on a number of fascinating Art Deco buildings. Art Deco was a design style and movement that existed from the 1910s to the 1930s and was styled into many things including buildings, furniture, cars and fashion. Meeting Meet outside Blackfriars Train Station/Underground (north side of Thames) from 1.45am for the walk to start at 2.00pm. We will visit a pub at the end for some refreshments close to Euston Station/Kings Cross Station. Walk Cost: £4 cash on the day organizer fee (For paypal it is '[colin45@hotmail.co.uk'](http://colin45@hotmail.co.uk'/) Please send as friends and family to avoid charges. For bank transfer message organizer. The host is a qualified London Guide. Please keep your 'RSVP' updated for this event as it would help to get accurate numbers and determine who is turning up for the walk; my phone number is Colin 07709 305681. Please keep your 'RSVP' updated for this event as it would help to get accurate numbers and determine who is turning up for the walk; my phone number is Colin 07709 305681. Walking Safety Walking is a great way to keep fit and generally very safe; however it does contain an element of risk. Before going on any of these walks you need to be reasonably fit and be prepared to be responsible for your own safety. You should wear appropriate clothing such as proper walking shoes, warm and wet weather clothing and carry sufficient food and water. Please see our Terms and Conditions (https://www.meetup.com/Escape-London-City-Explorers/pages/23195445/Terms_and_Conditions/) COULD EVERYONE PLEASE AVOID COMMENTS BELOW THAT ARE NOT SPECIFIC TO THE EVENT AS THIS GENERATES SPAM, JUST CHANGE YOUR RSVP IF YOU CAN'T GO. YOU CAN MESSAGE ME. MANY THANKS.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

The topic for March is "Our Bodies, Ourselves" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!

***Okay, call me crazy but you have got to try their chip n dip!*** Club 85 is a true hidden gem in German Village! Seriously, old school, good comfort food and drink. We will try to gather in spaces near the windows. While we'll share Chip n Dip, you'll want to order a sandwich, too. **Where the Chip Began (1817)** Potato chips can be traced back to an English chef, William Kitchiner, who includes ‘crisps’ in his bestselling cookbook, “The Cook’s Oracle.” **Chip and Dip Popularity** The popularity of chip and dip skyrockets at the end of World War II with new entertainment fads and the introduction of Lipton’s new advertising campaign for their famous French Onion Dip. (Club 185 doesn't openly admit it, but I'm pretty sure that's their dip recipe!) **[Club 185](http://club185.com/)**—a true neighborhood bar serving since 1954, when it was known as a local 'speak-easy'. Located in German Village, Club 185 features a menu of quality casual comfort food and full bar. From politicians to lawyers, hardhats to hipsters—all find Club 185 the perfect place to tame their hunger and quench their thirst! **PARKING**: I know, brick street parallel parking can be a pain. Two other choices, metered parking along Livingston heading towards Children's Hospital or across the street in the large church lot (park in spaces farthest away from the church entrance doors, closer to the street). **PRE-EVENT**: **HAPPY HOUR (3-5pm)**: Italian drinks and bites at [Cento's happy hour](https://centogermanvillage.com/menus/), nearby.

This is an in-person meeting. Did you know that unwanted emotions like loneliness, sadness, hopelessness, anger, fear, anxiety, or feelings of irritation don’t just fall on you for no reason. They are not random occurrences that simply happen to people's minds. They are definitely not chemical imbalance in your brain due to some nebulous chemical reactions by chance. Your negative emotions are the symptoms of the painful experiences that you have which are not healed, and which are still affecting you. The effects of these painful experiences are exacerbated by the pressures or difficulties of the other problems in your life. For instance, let's say you are already carrying a huge load on your back, then you cannot take on much more, but, let's say something else happens to you, such as the difficulties from the Pandemic, then the resultant combined weight on you can take you over the edge, kind of like the straw that break the camel's back. When this happens, people's attention usually goes to the straw that was added, but actually the majority of the weight had come from the huge load that were already there, holding a person down and causing a person issues. So how do you remove the huge load that was already there? How do you lighten them up? Is it possible to get rid of them? That is what this meeting will be all about. Come to our Meetup, where we can introduce you to some of the knowledge, tools and techniques of the breakthroughs in the field of the mind that we can apply to this ever important area of life. 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 created by the Dianetics and Scientology Life Improvement Center of Central Ohio.

Inspired by our successful events like "Saturday Mornings @ East Market" and other "Pot Luck in the Park" lunches, this gathering promises to be a blend of fun conversations, language exchange, and cultural insights, all while sharing wonderful foods with each other. Please bring a dish to share and anything you would like to drink. We will provide plates, plastic silverware and napkins. So, come hungry and ready to chat!

**Caller: Frank Buschelmann** **Band: The Rosenthorns** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

Join us as we get together for a CMG-favorite event, the OSCAR PARTY AND RED CARPET BASH at the Drexel Theatre! The highlight of the movie year live on the big screen always makes for a fun and memorable evening! Here are details for this event: WHAT TO EXPECT: This year’s ceremony will be hosted once again by Conan O’Brien. In addition to the Oscars on the big screen, your ticket includes a Meal Deal from the Drexel’s new food partner Newfangled Kitchen (I’m checking on vegetarian/vegan options) along with unlimited popcorn and sodas, a free box of candy, and your first beer, wine or specialty drink on the house! Also included: Oscar-themed trivia with prizes from local businesses, on-site paparazzi, and the Drexel's Oscar ballot contest with a chance to win a year of free Drexel movies! Plus, the BEST and most FUN way to watch the Oscars with fellow film fans and your CMG friends! ADVANCE TICKETS: General public tickets are $45 but Movie Group Members and their guests get in for just $35! Here’s how to purchase your tickets: \* Option 1 – In Person: You can purchase at the ticket counter anytime during operating hours. Just mention you are with the Columbus Movie Group for the discounted rate. \* Option 2 – Online: If you prefer to purchase online, you can do so by going to the link below and following these instructions: 1. Click the link below. 2. Click the little TICKETS box then click BUY TICKETS. 3. If you are a Drexel Member, you can log in here to receive the Member/Group rate, which is the same. If you are not a Drexel member, click “No” and the $40 Rate will pop up. But, don’t fret. It’s a little hard to find but there’s a “Promotion Code” section on the screen. Click the “Know a Promotion Code?” box, enter “CMG2026” (case sensitive) and submit. Select the appropriate number of tickets in the Discount Rate section and click “Add.” Next “Proceed to Checkout” then “Checkout” and enter your credit card info. There’s a $1.50 online service fee but it’ll save you a trip to the Drexel. (If you don’t already have one, you will need to sign in or create an account first.) Sellout possible so please purchase yours as soon as possible in advance! LINK FOR TICKETS (See Above Instructions): https://prod1.agileticketing.net/websales/pages/info.aspx?evtinfo=373546\~e2e0a350-c626-4e33-bc63-27e983f4aecf&epguid=ab0b2f82-403c-4972-9998-5475e7dcfa0e&mdy=3/15/2026& DRESS: Dressing up for the occasion art of part of the fun! Dress up as much as you like – there will be everything from casual to formal at the event! Or you can go in character as one of this year’s nominated films! ARRIVAL: Doors open for CMG at 5:30pm so that’s when we’ll plan to meet! That’ll give us plenty of time to fill out our Oscar Ballots, pick up some free popcorn, candy, and something to drink, mix, mingle, take some photos, pick up your Newfangled Kitchen Meal Deal, grab a seat in our CMG Reserved Section, then settle in to enjoy the Academy Awards on the Big Screen! PICTURES: We’ll take pics throughout the evening and the Drexel Paparazzi will be on hand as well. We’ll also take a big group photo around 6:40 near the entrance before the show begins. If you happen to take some good shots yourself, be sure to upload them on the Oscar Party Meetup event! RESERVED SEATING: As you enter the theater, the roped off section to the right marked “Reserved” is reserved for you, your guest(s) and the Columbus Movie Group! VEGAN MEALS: As previously mentioned, the food vendor does NOT have a vegan option at this year’s Oscar Party. However, we DO have a solution! I have reached out to several individuals who are affected. If you are a vegan, plan to attend the Oscar Party and did not receive an e-mail from me, please reach out via private message post a note below. I’ll provide details off-line. And while there won’t be a vegan meal option this year, I think we do have a workable solution. And, all other plans are usiness-as-usual: popcorn, sodas, candy, on-site paparazzi, decorations, bar drinks (including your first drink on the house), the Drexel’s Annual Oscar ballot contest, along with the Big Show on the Big Screen and a fun group of Movie Group friends to watch ‘em with! BONUS LINKS: \* COMPLETE LIST OF NOMINEES: https://deadline.com/lists/2026-oscar-nominations-list/ \* INTERESTING ARTICLE ON RECORDS BROKEN, SUPRISING FACTS AND OSCAR FIRSTS: https://abc7.com/post/oscar-nominations-2026-surprising-facts-nominees-98th-oscars/18448908/ \* SHORT VIDEO MONTAGE OF THIS YEAR’S BEST PICTURE NOMINEES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3abMnrsaUA \* FUN VIDEO OF OSCAR NOMINEES HEARING THEIR NOMINATIONS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l6eY1yGQ2aU PARKING: Parking is available along Main Street in front of the theater, on Drexel Avenue, and other nearby side streets. Additional parking is available at the Bexley Municipal Parking Lot (two driveways west of the theatre). LINK: Should be a fun & festive evening and a terrific way to celebrate a great year of movies together! Look forward to seeing you there, Dan