Encouragement & Honest Feedback
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out encouragement & honest feedback events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the encouragement & honest feedback events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find encouragement & honest feedback events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Encouragement & Honest Feedback Events Today
Join in-person Encouragement & Honest Feedback events happening right now
Free Personality Analysis - Find Your Strengths and Weaknesses
You want to do your best!
You want to realise your potential!
You want to make the right decisions at the right time!
Obviously- you want to be a success!
Do you have all the skills in place?
Do you have areas in your life or personality that are weaker and you feel can stop you or hold you back?
Would you like a free personal consultation to help locate your strengths and weaker areas?
We can help you to maximise on your potential.
If you would like a free 1 hour consult then register now!
We have various times available for your own personal consultation
This is hosted at the Scientology Life Improvement Centre in London.
We use the Oxford Capacity Analysis test.
https://www.scientology-london.org.uk/personality-test/
Jack the Ripper: London’s Darkest Secrets Walking Tour
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.
Free* English conversation class at International café
Discover the World at International Cafe!
We are a group of Christian volunteers set out to create a friendly community that welcomes everyone! Come and practice speaking English with our English speaking volunteers. You will learn more about British culture and discuss life with NEW topics each week. We also include a Bible story at the end of our sessions.
At International Cafe, we start our meet up with refreshments, snacks and continue in engaging conversations. Each week, we'll look at NEW topics about British culture and history, so you can learn and socialize.
Best of all, it's a free event and open to everyone!
So mark your calendars:
🕕 Time: **Sunday at 2:30 PM**
📍 Address: ECIR OEA, Inspire at St James
Questions? Text Organiser at 07708228436.
Backgammon Social Drinks n Dinner, CSC - Scotland Yard, Sun 15 March, 3pm
Venue: Civil Service Club
Date/Time: Sunday 15 March, 3-8pm and possibly beyond!
First timers - please kindly read below about bringing your board, meetup fee, purchasing drinks and food, etiquette etc
Dear Backgammon Lovers,
A big thank you to Lydia for hosting backgammon at the Gest Restaurant last Sunday.
Social & Fun Backgammon at the CSC
Whether you're a seasoned backgammoner or a newbie looking to learn this fabulous game, our social event is open to all.
This is also the perfect chance to sharpen your game, and share a laugh (or a lucky double six!) over backgammon. Add in a drink, maybe dinner, and you’ve got the recipe for a fun and relaxed evening.
Venue Food and Drink
Just a little reminder that when we use the Civil Service Club, we’re asked to buy at least one drink whilst we’re there, and hopefully food too.
The Club has a nice range of food and snacks on offer, all at good prices, so it’s a great chance to relax and make the most of the day.
About our backgammon social group
Our group has been running for nearly 11 years since June 2015 and we have held nearly 500 official backgammon meetings - along with a further 250 off-grid (non meetups) since then.
We are the largest backgammon group in the UK with around 2,000 backgammon members.
What makes our group special are its members and the warmth, humour and friendliness whilst playing this splendid social game over a few drinks... usually fortnightly, and on a Sunday.
We have about 30-odd regular members who play socially and we very much welcome new players too - so do come along.
Dinner Time and Drinks and Food
In between the rounds of backgammon many of us sit for a meal around 6pm, but you can order drinks and food whenever you like.
RSVP
Please RSVP asap - . Often I need to provide the Club with an indication of numbers.
Bring your own Backgammon Board - no problem if initially you don't have one.
Love seeing the different styles and size of boards - my boards have somehow gotten larger over the years. Please bring your own backgammon board and should you not have one please let us know in advance via the Meetup message board so that others can make the effort to bring theirs.
Meetup Fee
I will ask for £4 as the meetup fees etc have increased substantially over the past year or two. This also assists paying other admin costs including Club membership and tips.
Other Games
We sometimes play other games in the evening such as Rummikub, Yahtzee, and a type of Gin Rummy... so ask and watch this space!
Etiquette
Just a quick reminder- it’s always nice to say thank you to the staff at the CSC when you can.
Let’s also keep things warm and friendly with each other and enjoy the game.
If anything comes up, please feel free to have a word with me or whoever is hosting that day.
Backgammon Rules
With one or two exceptions our group plays international backgammon tournament rules. I have outlined these rules on our meetup page.
My Contact
Should you get lost or need to get in touch my number is: 07956 263451. Would advise you not to post messages two hours before the meetup commences as there's often chance I will not see it.
Best wishes again to all you Backgammoners for 2026!
Chris Sattaur
Personality Testing & Consultation
\#\#\#\# Step 1: TAKE THE TEST
The Oxford Capacity Analysis identifies 10 vital personality traits that influence your entire future.
It is a factual, scientific analysis taken from your answers, and it takes about an hour to complete.
\#\#\#\# Step 2: GET YOUR RESULTS
After you complete the test, your personality analysis is generated and displayed. Within minutes your analysis will highlight your strengths and weaknesses—which personality traits to take advantage of and which need help.
\#\#\#\# Step 3: CONSULTATION
While the analysis graph shows distinct personality traits, it is the interrelationship of these traits that provides the greater picture of your personality.
We provide a complimentary consultation with one of our trained staff, who will give a detailed evaluation of your personality analysis.
In this one-on-one consultation, you gain a better understanding of your personality strengths and weaknesses, and establish the recommended path to your fast and lasting success.
Flamenco Dance for Beginners
Flamenco Dance Classes for Beginners at Danceworks every Sunday!
We will work on the placement of the body, the perception of the rhythm, clapping, footwork, movements of arms and head.
Choreography depending on the level: Alegrías, Bulerías, Tangos, etc.
We will learn or perfect the four Sevillanas.
If you have dancing shoes and clothes, bring them. Otherwise, don't worry, just feel comfortable to dance!
When?
**Every Sunday**
Time: **12:00 - 13:00**
Where?
**Danceworks**
16 Balderton St, London W1K 6TN
Studio 4
Nearest Tube stations:
**Bond St.**
Marble Arch
Cost?
£12 per class.
**Book here:**
https://danceworks.com/london/classes/timetable/
Class bookings become available 7 days in advance.
Online bookings close 15 minutes before the class starts but you can book in person up to the start time.
**Waiting lists are available.**
***About Maika:***
Maika is a flamenco and Spanish dance teacher with more than 17 years of experience, teaching adults and children in Spain, the United States of America, Mexico, Canada and UK. She also led flamenco classes at Rey Juan Carlos University from 2013 to 2018.
Born and raised in Madrid (Spain), she began studying ballet and Spanish dance from the tender age of nine.
Maika studied at Karen Taft Dance Academy and Flamenco Centre “Amor de Dios”, majoring in Spanish Dance at Conservatory of Dance in Madrid. In 2003, she was awarded a certificate in Teaching Methodology Applied to Spanish Dance and then focused her career on dance education. Maika has continued her professional training alongside teachers including Antonio Canales, Alfonso Losa, La Lupi, Rojas and Rodriguez.
Maika co-founded the company Spanish Flamenco Tour, based in Miami (USA), a business dedicated to promoting flamenco and Spanish culture, to a local audience. Adding more strings to her bow, Maika embarked on a Master´s Degree in Leadership and Management of Cultural Projects at Institute of Dance “Alicia Alonso”, Rey Juan Carlos University. Her final master’s project was based on the promotion of Spanish dance, receiving a First-Class Degree.
Maika’s classes are designed to extract every student’s natural ability to dance and show them how wonderful and fun, this art form is.
Curated Engaging Chats With People Who Love What You Love
Is one of your 2026 goals to have more valuable engaging chats with new like-minded people who are into what you're into thereby adding more brilliant relevant people to your life? Then come and try something different for a perfect New Year adventure swith **group matched topic** based conversation
Time is precious. Here at the Universe of Hedonic Adventures, we believe life gets better when you spend more time enjoying the things you love, with similar people who genuinely love them too. This is not just about bespoke socialising but ensuring fully engaging, soulfully enriching and inspiring interactions that leave you a bit wiser than when you arrived. Start 2026 with themed conversations that'll provide **new beginnings**, **thought provoking engaging chats and meeting people who actually share the same interests as you**
No awkward hovering. No boring small talk with “so what do you do?” . No meaningless icebreakers, No dull uninspiring generic chats! Just relaxed meaningful and exciting conversations with people who share your passions, interests and hobbies. Whether you’re into creativity, music, travel, films, wellness, curiosity, science, food, politics or great outdoor adventures, you’ll find your people here.
**=== CHOOSE YOUR HIGH LEVEL TOPIC ===**
Instead of walking into total randomness, choose **your specialist topic when you RSVP** to meet people just like you. When you arrive - you’ll join a small group of people with the same interests from:
* **Music**
* **Films, Theatre & TV Shows**
* **Books**
* **Health, Fitness, Sports & Nutrition**
* **Fashion**
* **Spirituality**
* **PPE** (Politics, Philosophy & Economics)
* **Art**
* **Outdoors & Nature**
* **Space, Science & Wonder**
* **Food, Eating Out & Cooking**
**=== HOW IT WORKS ===**
* **Pick your topic when you RSVP** so you’re matched with people who share your interests / passions. To keep conversations truly engaging for everyone, only select a topic that you can talk about with passion and knowledge
* **When you arrive**, head to the **table area** (location and host contact number will be posted in the comments).
* **Check in with host** — I’ll have a quick chat to make sure you’re comfortable with your chosen topic
* **I’ll introduce you to your topic group**, connecting you with people who love the same things as you do
* **Enjoy relaxed, easy conversation** over a drink with interesting and engaging people who actually share your hobbies, passions, and curiosity, not just any Tom, Dick & Harry
* **Meet a mix of relevant like‑minded people**, ensuring high quality enjoyable organic conversations that flow naturally & never run out
* If you get bored - I will re-alllocate you a different group with your secondary area of interest
**=== VENUE ===**
This historic, cosy, and much‑loved Islington bar serves everything from hot drinks to wine, beer, and food. So come and start 2026 with curiosity, connection, and a room full of people who might just become your new friends
Lucas - The Social Butterfly
Encouragement & Honest Feedback Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Aqua Strength
**Aqua Strength – Pure Strength in the Pool**
Dive into a new kind of strength training with **Aqua Strength**, a low-impact water workout designed to boost strength, cardio fitness, flexibility, and balance—all while being easy on the joints. Perfect for all fitness levels, including those managing arthritis, recovering from injury, or simply seeking a supportive and effective workout.
At **Workout with Pride**, we believe fitness should evolve with you. That’s why we’ve infused the core elements of our "Pure Strength" program into the pool—focusing on mobility, muscle retention, and bone health with a deliberately slower pace. Expect purposeful movement, proper rest intervals, and a focus on refining your form, all in a welcoming, body-positive environment.
Whether you're aging gracefully, getting back into movement, or just love the water, this class offers a fun, inclusive way to build strength, improve mobility, and feel empowered in your body.
**Spaces are limited—secure your spot and shape a stronger, healthier future with us!**
**Healthy Reagrds, Mark**
FREE BACHATA CLASS & FREE ENTRY AT BAILANDO SUNDAYS - Be at one Regent ST
Kick off your week with music, movement, and great vibes. Come solo or with friends—no partner needed!
**Schedule (This Sunday):**
• 6:30 PM – Free Bachata Taster
• 7:00 PM – Bachata Classes (3 Levels)
• 8:00 PM – Salsa Classes (3 Levels)
• 9:00 PM–12:30 AM – FREE Social Dancing (Salsa, Bachata, a touch of Kiz)
**What to expect:**
• Friendly teachers, clear level splits, and lots of practice time
• Great music and a welcoming crowd for all levels—absolute beginners to improvers
• Central location, easy transport, and good vibes all night
**Why social dancing is good for you:**
Social dancing is a fun workout that boosts your cardio, coordination, and posture—without feeling like “exercise.” It reduces stress, fires up your brain with musical timing and footwork patterns, and improves confidence through gentle challenges and quick wins. Dancing with different partners builds connection, empathy, and communication skills (you literally learn to “listen” with your body). It’s also an incredible way to make friends and feel part of a community—one song at a time.
Good to know:
• No partner or experience required
• Wear comfy shoes, bring water, and arrive a bit early for level check-in
• Classes start right on time—don’t miss your warm-up!
Price: £10 one class £12 two classes
6:30 PM class is FREE intro to bachata
RSVP now so we can plan levels and floor space. See you on the dance floor! 💃🕺
Mandarin Learning Games 语言学习游戏!
3rd Sunday of every month, unleash your inner language ninja with our fun Mandarin learning games! Get ready to ditch stale textbooks and rote memorisation, and watch your language skills truly skyrocket!
These monthly gatherings are designed for you to:
* **Boost Conversational Confidence:** Engage in lively, real-time communication that feels like play, not practice.
* **Sharpen Your Listening Skills** as you navigate thoughtfully designed game scenarios and interact with fellow learners.
* **Expand Your Vocabulary:** Effortlessly pick up new words and phrases, enabling you to express yourself with precision and richness.
* **Retain More, Stress Less:** Experience the power of learning through fun, making new vocabulary and grammar stick with less effort!
**What Makes Our Language Games Special:**
Unlike traditional lessons, our sessions are a unique blend of structured fun and effective learning:
* **Immersive & Interactive:** We transform language concepts into engaging, team-based games that facilitate natural conversation and active participation.
* **Relaxed & Supportive Environment:** Forget competition! Our classroom setting is designed to be comfortable and non-intimidating, encouraging everyone to experiment and learn at their own pace.
* **All Levels Learn Together:** You'll consolidate what you already know while effortlessly picking up new vocabulary from our well-facilitated activities.
* **Expert Guidance:** Our experienced tutor provides active language support, ensuring every activity is both enjoyable and highly effective for language improvement.
* **Suitable for All Levels!** (For beginners: if you have more than 20 hours of Mandarin learning, you're good to join us!)
**Session Details:**
🗓️ **When:** 3rd Sunday of every month
⏰ **Time:** 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
**💰 Price:** £10 - [Tap for Easy Payment](https://monzo.com/pay/r/china-unbound_eTW5aAZoqiDQ3p) (To secure your spot, please complete payment when you RSVP)
Join us, and accelerate your road to fluency today! We can't wait to welcome you.
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**Take your Mandarin beyond the event.** 🤝 If you’re looking for a bit more structure to go along with your conversation practice, let’s chat! We're offering **FREE 1-on-1 advice sessions** to help you find the perfect learning path. Get a professional assessment of your level so you can study with confidence. **No commitment** required. [Book your Free Session](https://eu.bigin.online/org20070515371/bookings/course-advice)
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**China Unbound** is the best place to learn practical Chinese for adults.
While most schools prioritise grammar and writing, China Unbound empowers you to confidently converse, understand, and actively apply Chinese in real-world situations. Join us and discover a fun, fast, and personalised way to master Chinese!
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**Hear From Our Learners:**
"The Language games session provides a well-structured and immersive way of learning. Even as a beginner I am able to practice all aspects of the language and have learnt a lot whilst having fun!" - Jeremy Smithers
"The Sunday games session is in a classroom environment but relaxed with organized team-based games designed to facilitate conversation. It’s a good way to consolidate what you know and pick up some new vocab. The folks who attend vary massively in ability so it’s not competitive, but more a chance to learn from people who are more advanced and help along newbies. I recommend it!" - Mark Mansell
**FAQ 常见问题::**
**What if I don’t feel my Chinese is good enough to join?**
Don’t worry, our hosts will be on hand to offer support and help you participate. Many are also group exercises, so you can lean on stronger members too.
**What games will I be playing?**
You'll be diving into a variety of engaging and interactive language activities specifically designed to match your proficiency level! Think fun, familiar formats like Articulate, and creative role-play scenarios.
Our games are carefully designed (by us!) to intensively develop your speaking and listening abilities, providing you with comprehensive language input.
In addition, every game is expertly facilitated by our experienced tutors. They provide real-time support and guidance, ensure activities are well-structured for optimal learning, and offer clear explanations and consolidation of any new vocabulary or concepts that emerge. It's learning through play, with expert support!
**I’m not into games, is it still for me?**
Yes!! Think of it as immersive practice, not gaming. Even if you’re not a gamer, you will enjoy learning Mandarin this way! Our activities are designed to boost your vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency in a natural and engaging way.
**Are there any discounts for Chinese lessons for members?**
Yes, you can use code MEETUP10 for your exclusive £10 discount on our [Chinese courses](https://china-unbound.co.uk/personal/) site-wide!
Impro In The Flesh - Informal Workshop And Jam (London)
*'It was a journey towards conquering our fears and limitations and unlocking our fullest potential.'* \- Sarah Kent\, former visual arts editor of London's Time Out
Details and bookings here:
https://imprology.com/G201469/we.shtml
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early so we can all start on time.
Pay Forward £30 - Regular £25 - Starter £20
**1\. Do I need any experience to join?**
No. This weekend is for anyone curious about being more present, playful, and connected. Impro experience or none at all—you’re welcome. Some participants have been doing it for years, and some are just starting.
**2\. What if I’m shy\, nervous\, or feel out of place?**
That’s completely fine. This retreat is built to include you exactly as you are. Nothing to prove, nothing to perform. Just start where you are and let things unfold.
**3\. Will I have to perform?**
Not if you don't want to. It's all Open Space: you only do what feels right for you. Sometimes things will be funny, but we’re not aiming for it.
**4\. Will I have to be funny?**
Sometimes things will be funny, but we’re not aiming for it.
**5\. What actually happens during a class?**
We breathe, stretch, move, play, speak, and rest. Some games are full-body and wordless. Others are about listening, timing, and presence. If it's a retreat, there’s food, silence, laughter, and space to do nothing at all.
**6\. What should I bring?**
Clothes that you can move and rest in. If it's a retreat, shoes or boots for walking, swimsuit, mosquito repellent, allergy medication if needed and anything that helps you feel at ease. We’ll take care of the rest.
**7\. What do people leave with?**
A quieter mind. Looser body. Sharper attention. A sense of having been part of something real.
**8\. How many people will be there?**
Usually around 6 to 8 people for a class or a retreat. Enough to play, small enough to stay close. It can be much more in a jam, six to 40 in our experience.
This is a journey into the heart of improvisation inviting you to rediscover the joy of play, the beauty of improvisation, and the transformative power of connection.
Through original exercises and guided explorations, you'll build trust with your partners, engage fully with your intuitions and tap into your audience's "secret wishes" to improvise compelling scenes and stories.
This workshop celebrates the courage to leap into the unknown, conjuring an environment where mistakes become gifts and collaboration sparks magic.
Whether you're a performer seeking fresh inspiration or simply someone eager to explore the art of being present, "Now or Never" offers a supportive space to practice active listening, fearless vulnerability, and the art of doing rather than trying. Imprology unique approach to improvisation eliminates pre-planning and second-guessing to empower performers with a “now or never” approach to improvisation.
Come as you are, and leave with a renewed sense of freedom, connection, and possibility.
Master the Art of Communication
Welcome to our **Free Event - Master the Art of Communication**!
Join us at the Church of Scientology **Life Improvement Centre** to learn valuable basics of communication and skills that will help you in both your personal and professional life.
During this event, you will learn
some fundamentals of communication - what is it,
what are the vital parts of the communication formula....
and have the opportunity to participate in these new skills.
Hear from trained and experienced communicators, and practice communication techniques in a supportive environment.
Whether you struggle with public speaking, conflict resolution, or simply want to improve your relationships, this is for you!
Come and discover the power of knowledge and how to achieve effective communication.
Find out how you could guide and control communication in your life!
Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your communication abilities and connect with like-minded individuals. We look forward to seeing you here!
Rabble - Fitness Through Games!
A Rabble session is 1 hour of fun and social team games.
Each game disguises high-intensity intervals within the rules, giving you an effective, all-body workout without even realising it.
We play a bunch of different games at each session (like British Bulldog, Capture the Flag, Dodgeball, Frisbee and many more), and every class is different.
Sessions are open to all, no matter your sporting ability. Each game is explained before we start, so there's no need to have played any of the games before.
Come solo or bring friends! And stay at the end for the social part!
Who knew getting fit could be this fun?
**TO BOOK**:
It's essential that you book onto sessions via our website, using the link below; due to restrictions on games and preparation times we cannot accept walk-ins, or late arrivals.
[https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/](https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/)
Use the code **FREEPLAY** to get your first game free!
***
We play every:
* Monday in Finsbury Park (19:00 - 20:00)
* Tuesday in Shoreditch (19:00 - 20:00)
* Wednesdays in Elephant & Castle (19:00-20:00)
* Saturday in Southwark Park (10:30 - 11:30)
* Saturday in Finsbury Park (11:00 - 12:00)
* Sunday in Clapham Common - Exact Location is here : https://what3words.com/drums.yards.early
We hope to see you playing soon!
PS. We've got a group of dedicated regulars, so numbers are often much higher than Meetup might suggest. Sign up at: [https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/](https://joinrabble.com/locations/london/)
**Love Rabble**
Club night! Get your dancing shoes on for House music legend Kenny Dope
**I’ve just found out that the Legendary DJ is playing at Fox and Firkin in Lewisham this evening! If you love house music and fancy a good hard dance… come join me! Book tickets here… https://foxfirkin.com/event/kenny-dope-anything-goes-set/**
**Check out his amazing house mixes here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1TrfxjXu8quyDw05p2bacX?si=uxwZ1f_xRNi0_DqyQsxl0A**
Encouragement & Honest Feedback Events Near You
Connect with your local Encouragement & Honest Feedback community
Resource Presentation - Build Systems That Support Your Growth
## **1 Million Cups Loudoun – Resource Presentation**
**Why Not Today? Build Systems That Support Your Growth**
**Presented by Leslie Kane, Founder of Why Not Today?**
**Wednesday March 25th \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM**
**Venture X Loudoun**
Join us for a powerful resource presentation designed to help entrepreneurs move from scattered effort to sustainable momentum.
***
## **About the Session**
Entrepreneurs rarely struggle because they lack ideas.
They struggle because everything lives in their head.
In this session, **Leslie Kane**, founder of **Why Not Today?**, will explore how developing intentional systems creates clarity, focus, and forward progress in business.
Drawing from decades of leadership experience and working with hundreds of entrepreneurs, Leslie shares how structure reduces overwhelm, simplifies decision-making, and transforms inconsistent action into repeatable success.
If you’re building a business and constantly feeling stretched thin, this conversation will challenge you to ask a powerful question:
**Why not today?**
***
## **What You’ll Gain**
* Insight into why systems are critical for growth
* Practical perspective on turning ideas into structured action
* A framework for reducing overwhelm
* A mindset shift from reactive to intentional leadership
This is not about adding more to your plate — it’s about building the foundation that allows your business to grow without burning you out.
***
## **About 1 Million Cups**
1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through conversation and collaboration. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month.
Join us for coffee, connection, and a conversation that may completely change how you approach your business growth.
Restonish FC (Black Jersey)
Please arrive early (no later than 7:30) to stretch out and warm up.
Wear a black jersey and bring a pair of shin guards.
Simply Social - Reston
We had a great conversation the last time we went here. For everyone attending this was a new find, a cafe tucked away on the upper level, not immediately noticeable by the average visitor to this shopping center. I’ll probably have a matcha, but get whatever you like, and start the weekend off right.
(No discussions on politics, religion or potentially controversial topics. We're here to relax and have fun. Just be respectful and we'll be alright. Pay your own way, and enjoy!)
La Grande Fête de la Francophonie at the French Embassy
https://www.francophonie-dc.org/event-details/la-grande-fete
From the website:
"Get ready for a spectacular party with a French accent! The don’t-miss event is your passport for a world tour of francophone cultures. Sample food and drink from more than 20 embassies as you explore each nation’s unique attractions and traditions. Past participating organizations and countries include Alliance Française de Washington, Belgium, Québec, St. Lucia, Democratic Republic of Congo, France, Senegal, Uruguay, Gabon, Canada, Kosovo, Madagascar, Serbia, Morocco, Mauritania, Switzerland, Cote d’Ivoire, Togo, Tunisia, and Burundi.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the best of the French-speaking world—without leaving D.C."
Please note that you will need a form of identification that matches the name on your ticket exactly.
More info to be announced. Message me (Madeleine) at 240-495-2157 to join the WhatsApp group.
Get your tickets here: https://smithsonianassociates.org/ticketing/programs/2026lgf
LM: Off the Beaten Track in SNP (Oventop)
Time for something different! This is a repeat of a trip we did in 2019 to explore one of Shenandoah’s many bushwhacks. This one will lead us to Oventop, which should yield great views of the park and the surrounding valley.
The credit for this trip goes to Russ Evans, a long-time DC UL member, who was incredibly knowledgeable about these abandoned trails and shared that knowledge. We wanted to do something in tribute to him--so join us for what should be a nice outing.
(You can read the original trip report [here](https://dculbackpacking.com/2019/03/11/a-thru-hiker-a-family-and-dc-ul-walk-into-a-shelter-oventop-snp-trip-report/).)
The overall distance is short (I think 15 miles in total for the trip), but bushwhacking can be slow and difficult -- you'll want to be comfortable with doing an off-trail route.
The plan: gather at Vienna at 8:30 a.m. and head out. We’ll drop off cars at the Buck Hollow trailhead along 211 and then proceed to the Pass Mountain trailhead. We'll make our way along Pass Mountain and depart the main trail to head towards Oventop. We'll aim to keep the group close for this section, as this is our off-trail portion of the trip. We'll enjoy the views and then make our way back to Pass Mountain trail. We'll follow it up to the AT--our home away from home will be the Pass Mountain Hut for Saturday night.
Sunday, we'll hop on the AT and take it south up and over Mary's Rock. From there, we'll take Meadow Spring to either the Buck Hollow or the Buck Ridge trails and follow that back to the cars.
Weather-wise, anticipate cold conditions—it’s March, so we could see anything from sun to snow up in Shenandoah. I'll update with the forecast closer to the trip.
We’ll have GPS tracks for the trip--look for those to be shared closer to the trip.
Group size is limited to 10.
The Fine Print
\- Total round\-trip distance is roughly 140 miles\. Per DC UL recommended guidelines of about $0\.10 per mile\, expect to chip in about $14 to your driver if you're catching a ride\.
\- Members and above\, don't forget to pay your annual dues\. You can see if you need to pay dues by seeing if the current year is listed next to your name in your DC UL profile\. Applicants do not need to pay dues for their first trip\. To pay your dues via PayPal\, use this link: https://www\.paypal\.com/paypalme/JenniferAdach/15 \($10 annual dues plus a $5 suggested donation to City Kids Wilderness Project\.\)
\- By RSVPing for this trip\, you acknowledge that you’ve read our COVID\-19 guidelines \(https://dculbackpacking\.com/about/covid\-19\-guidelines/\) and that you agree to DC UL's liability waiver terms\. \(https://dculbackpacking\.com/about/liability\-waiver\)



















