Locals & New in Town

ASTORIA GREEK LUNCH SOCIAL ️ Sunshine on a Plate in the Heart of Greektown Maybe you’re skipping the walk. Maybe you just want the reward. Either way — come meet us for lunch . We’re gathering at **Astoria Shish Kebob House**, a Greektown institution established in 1972 and one of the oldest, most beloved Greek restaurants in Toronto. This isn’t just lunch. This is sizzling souvlaki arriving at the table. This is lemon potatoes that deserve their own fan club. This is grilled calamari, moussaka, warm pita, cool tzatziki, and that unmistakable buzz of a busy Greek dining room. Astoria has been serving authentic Greek cuisine for over 50 years — long before “foodie culture” was a thing. It’s classic. It’s generous. It’s the kind of place where you leave full and a little bit happier than when you arrived. And it’s even better when the table is full of friendly faces. If you’ve been meaning to try one of our events but didn’t want to commit to a full walk — this is your perfect entry point. Just show up hungry and ready to chat. Menu:[ CLICK HERE!](https://astoriashishkebobhouse.com/toronto/menu-toronto) **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) \*\*\* ️ Meetup Details ⏰ Time: 12:30 PM ❗ I will only wait 5 minutes outside Meetup Spot: I’ll be standing outside the restaurant I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat Please don’t go inside without checking in first so we can be seated together. And please don’t call the restaurant — they won’t have information about this event. Message Mathew directly with any questions. \*\*\* ️ **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! If this is your first time attending one of my events, you must send the e-transfer in advance to hold your spot. Send to: [mathewmaclean@hotmail.com](mailto:mathewmaclean@hotmail.com) This helps ensure committed attendance and supports the group so we can keep organizing great gatherings like this. \*\*\* ⏳ Leaving Time You’re free to leave whenever you like — stay for a quick bite or linger over coffee and conversation. \*\*\* Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: Movies Walks & hikes Arts & culture outings ️ Restaurant socials There’s always something happening — but this one? This one smells like oregano and grilled perfection. \*\*\* ⚠️ A Gentle Reminder Sometimes things happen and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. \*\*\* Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email [torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com](mailto:torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com) Come for the Greek food. Stay for the laughter. Leave wondering why you don’t eat lemon potatoes every week. Honestly — lunch tastes better when you don’t eat it alone. ✨

🏛️🍋 ASTORIA GREEK LUNCH SOCIAL 🍋🏛️ Sunshine on a Plate in the Heart of Greektown Maybe you’re skipping the walk. Maybe you just want the reward. Either way — come meet us for lunch. We’re gathering at **Astoria Shish Kebob House**, a Greektown institution established in 1972 and one of the oldest, most beloved Greek restaurants in Toronto. This isn’t just lunch. This is sizzling souvlaki arriving at the table. This is lemon potatoes that deserve their own fan club. This is grilled calamari, moussaka, warm pita, cool tzatziki, and that unmistakable buzz of a busy Greek dining room. Astoria has been serving authentic Greek cuisine for over 50 years — long before “foodie culture” was a thing. It’s classic. It’s generous. It’s the kind of place where you leave full and a little bit happier than when you arrived. And it’s even better when the table is full of friendly faces. If you’ve been meaning to try one of our events but didn’t want to commit to a full walk — this is your perfect entry point. Just show up hungry and ready to chat. 👉 Menu:[ CLICK HERE!](https://astoriashishkebobhouse.com/toronto/menu-toronto) 👉 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) *** 🕰️ Meetup Details ⏰ Time: 12:30 PM ❗ I will only wait 5 minutes outside 📍 Meetup Spot: I’ll be standing outside the restaurant 🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat Please don’t go inside without checking in first so we can be seated together. And please don’t call the restaurant — they won’t have information about this event. Message Mathew directly with any questions. *** 💵 **Meetup Fee:** $5 cash in person **or** e-transfer 📲 Send to: \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) 👉 **First-timers must e-transfer** in advance to hold their spot. 🍽️ Food & drinks are paid individually at the restaurant. If this is your first time attending one of my events, you must send the e-transfer in advance to hold your spot. 📧 Send to: mathewmaclean@hotmail.com This helps ensure committed attendance and supports the group so we can keep organizing great gatherings like this. *** ⏳ Leaving Time You’re free to leave whenever you like — stay for a quick bite or linger over coffee and conversation. *** 🌈 Who Is This For? This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not. We also host: 🎬 Movies 🚶 Walks & hikes 🎭 Arts & culture outings 🍽️ Restaurant socials There’s always something happening — but this one? This one smells like oregano and grilled perfection. *** ⚠️ A Gentle Reminder Sometimes things happen and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates. *** 👤 Organizer: Mathew Questions? Post on the event wall or email 📧 torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com Come for the Greek food. Stay for the laughter. Leave wondering why you don’t eat lemon potatoes every week. Honestly — lunch tastes better when you don’t eat it alone. 🍋🥙✨

Hello everyone, I'd like to invite you out to our **Dinner with Friends Gratitude Party!** -Reserved seating, friendly people, good conversation and great food awaits! So please plan to join us if you can :) \*Joined by my other groups too; so we can anticipate a fantastic evening **Time: 6:30 p.m. -9:30 p.m.** **Location:** La Carnita - Good Fortune Bar (Main Floor) **Address:** 130 Eglinton Ave. Toronto, ON M4P 2X9 Event Details Bellow: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) Event Details: **Dinner with Friends Gratitude Party! (Dinner, Cocktails and Conversations) (March 8th)** -The great thing about this dinner party is you're free to move around to different tables and meet the other members too throughout the evening **Dinner Party Topics** may include but not limited too: Travel, Culture, Spirituality, Relationships, Modern Dating, Work/Life balance, Art, Technology, Economy, Music, Movies, Sports, Fashion, Hobbies, Books, Psychology, Philosophy, the Future, History, Pop Culture, Theatre, etc.) **Arrival Time:** \*Join us any time between 6:30 pm and 7:15 pm (if you can) for a fun and highly interactive evening as we get to know the members over dinner and great conversations (of your choice) Event goes until roughly 9:30 pm **Event Fee:** 5 dollars (cash only please) (HST included) or in advance by e transfer to **[steveflemming11@gmail.com](http://steveflemming11@gmail.com/)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Friendly Reminder:** \*One beverage or appetizer minimum to support the venue- this is greatly appreciated :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Parking Available:** \*Plenty of free street parking on Eglinton and (Residential area south/east of venue for free) **Close to Subway Station:** \*Also right beside the Yonge/Eglinton subway station :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

Join us for a relaxed and fun evening of board games! Whether you love strategy games, party games, or classic favorites, everyone is welcome. Feel free to bring your own games if there’s something you’d like to play or share with the group. The more the merrier—invite friends, family, or anyone who enjoys a good game night. No experience needed; we’re happy to teach games and learn new ones together. Come meet new people, try different games, and enjoy a great night of friendly competition and laughter! ♟️🃏

As adults, meeting new people isn’t as easy as it used to be. Between busy schedules and shrinking social circles, it can feel hard to form fresh connections—and while we’re constantly interacting online, it rarely matches the warmth and depth of a real, face-to-face conversation. That’s where our Fast Friending Evening comes in. It’s all about genuine, in-person connections with like-minded ladies and gents. Just show up, be yourself, and enjoy an evening of effortless conversations and meaningful new connections. **Book tickets now & save money -** [https://toro7thmarch.eventbrite.co.uk](https://toro7thmarch.eventbrite.co.uk) \*You can use any debit or credit card to purchase your ticket at PayPal checkout. It will ask you for your email address but that is only to send you a receipt. You do not need a PayPal account. EVENT COST: Early Bird - CAD$ 10 per person Regular Ticket - CAD$ 15 per person Cash at meetup - If you have not purchased your ticket in advance then you can pay CAD$ 20 cash when you meet Faye at the venue. **Our venue for the evening** \- High Park Brewery is spacious\, has comfortable seating and not very noisy\. We have a reserved area where our members can meet each other in a supportive environment\. **Here’s how your evening will flow:** **7:00 PM – Welcome** Arrive at 7:00 PM and be welcomed by your host, Faye, who will guide the evening and help with introductions. Feeling shy? Come a little early and she’ll ease you into small-group conversations. You’re also welcome to bring a lady friend along for free. **7:30 – 8:30 PM \| Fast Friending** Chat with a new attendee every 3 minutes, ensuring you meet a variety of like-minded ladies and gentlemen. **After 8:30 PM \| Open Mingling** Reconnect with those you enjoyed speaking to and continue meaningful conversations at your own pace \- We are not a close knit tight group\. Our evenings are warm and comfortable for members attending for the first time and those coming alone\. You will not feel alone\! \- We have many groups in this city\. Members of our other groups who RSVP are included as guests of the organisers in order to give you an indication of expected people\. \- This evening is for ladies and gents in the 25 to 45 age group\. While some will be at the younger end of this range there will also be others at the other end of the range and lots in\-between\! You will naturally gel with others of your own age range and so you will always find many attendees who fit your range\. \- We are not a 'dating' group\. We are focused on helping ladies and gents meet other like minded ladies and gents\. You will generally find a good gender balance \(maybe not perfect\) at all our events\. **Why do we have tickets?** 1. Cover our costs - Our host is compensated for their time and work. We also pay meetup and have dedicated staff to manage our events, hosts, venues and communication. 2. Group Safety - By securing your ticket we have a record and you contribute to a well organized evening where everyone is more committed and better behaved. 3. Management - Tickets help us better manage attendee group size, book suitable space and activity. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ABOUT [fastfriends.co.uk ](https://fastfriends.co.uk/)- We have connected members successfully for the past 10 years in over 30 cities (operating as Expatsclub, MeetConnectDevelop and fastfriends.co.uk). \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- You can contact our founder Dan on +447715705005 with any questions or ideas. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Here are some videos which will give you some guidance and comfort to make your attendance more productive.** Secrets for socialising at our meetups - [https://bit.ly/44ZdVwx](https://bit.ly/44ZdVwx) Making new friends -[ https://bit.ly/455TsWY](https://bit.ly/455TsWY) How to make people like you instantly - [https://bit.ly/3Vj5PeT](https://bit.ly/3Vj5PeT) Members review - [https://bit.ly/3yHfu6d](https://bit.ly/3yHfu6d)

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Toronto Dinner Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over dinner. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated dinner venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Toronto City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

Hey Toronto! This is your weekly escape into global cultures. [[[Click this WhatsApp Groupchat Link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GyoGCkYt392Bi8c9nOP2d4) ] Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people in their 20s and 30s gather for a mix of language practice, travel stories, and community. Whether you’re new in town or born here, this is where world citizens connect. No judgment, no pressure — just pure, human interaction.

Hello everyone, Please join us for a Magnificent March Saturday Night Karaoke Party where we will meet at our groups cozy location, **The Celtic Irish Pub**. This friendly pub is conveniently located at Yonge & Davisville- very close to the Davisville subway. Free Parking on Duplex (just a block west of Yonge) \-\-\-\-\- **Where and When to Meet us?** **Location: Celtic Irish Pub** (Just mention Steve from Meetup when you arrive- to find our reserved section) **Date:** Saturday March 7th, 2026 **Address:** 1954 Yonge St Toronto, ON M4S 3E5 **Arrive between:** 8:30 pm and 10:00 pm (if you can) (Dinner Menu Provided) **Free Parking** on Duplex just west of Yonge **Taking Subway:** 1 minute walk north of Yonge-Davisville Subway \-\-\-\-\- Event Details below: Steve Flemming (Organizer) meetup.com/soulcity/ \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Event Details: **The Magnificent March Karaoke Mix and Mingle Party! (Saturday March 7th)** -We will meet inside (reserved seating) and look forward to a great night to mix, mingle, share some laughs and then Karaoke after the mixer \*Plan to come for dinner too if you like (a fabulous dinner menu) \*Invite your friends too; or come on your own (either way, we're going to have a blast and make lots of new friends!) \*Choose to sing or merely enjoy a super enthused energy all night long! \*One beverage or appetizer minimum to support the venue-plan to come for dinner too if you like :) \*Joined by my other groups too; so we can anticipate a fantastic turn out :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **EVENT FEE and Arrival Times:** \*Please arrive between 8:30 pm and 10:00 pm (if you can) **Event Fee: (Cash only at the door)** 10 dollars cash or in advance by e transfer too: [steveflemming11@gmail.com](http://steveflemming11@gmail.com/) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \*Free Parking on Duplex (block west of Yonge) Residential area, with paid street parking and parking lot on Yonge street

Non-hosted event. If anyone is interested in hosting the group, send me a message. **\*\*If you can no longer come to the meetup, please un-RSVP as soon as possible (i.e. not the day of) so someone else from the waiting list can attend\*\*** This is an informal conversation group for anyone wanting to practice / use their French and meet some new people. All levels are welcome, but having a conversational level is strongly recommended (and of course native French speakers are very welcome too!). / Il s'agit d'un groupe de conversation informel pour toute personne souhaitant pratiquer / utiliser son français et rencontrer de nouvelles personnes. Tous les niveaux sont les bienvenus, mais il est recommandé d'avoir un niveau de conversation approximatif (et bien sûr, les locuteurs natifs du français sont également les bienvenus !) Nous nous rencontrerons dimanche, de 14h00 à 16h00, au foodcourt de Brookfield Place, qui heureusement a beaucoup de tables et garde la musique basse! **+ Juste un rappel que ce groupe est un lieu d'échange détendu avec les autres dans un esprit de respect, de tolérance et de réceptivité à la multiplicité des cultures et des niveaux de français représentés. Merci de respecter ces principes en participant aux meetups.**

New Toronto is a neighbourhood in Etobicoke just west of the former limits of Toronto. It mushroomed in the early 20th century but today it looks older than old Toronto. The exception is the enclave of spiffy condos at Humber Bay Shores. The biggest attraction here is the former Mimico Asylum, which now houses Humber College and a couple of ghosts. We won't explore the underground tunnels but we'll check out Toronto's largest open-air skating trail and loop around the historic buildings. Going eastwards, we'll pass by Polish and British food places and an Australian cafe. The eclectic mix continues in Mimico, with an increasing Tibetan and Thai focus. It's also home to the best Ukrainian restaurant in the GTA. The route winds through soaring condos at Humber Bay, the frozen lakeshore, and circles back from the iconic bridge marking the border of Etobicoke and old Toronto. From there, it's a short distance to either an exemplary Argentinean steakhouse for asado (barbecue) or a modern Chinese restaurant for spicy Sichuan claypot dishes. **Highlights** 1. Assembly Hall (depart 2pm) 2. Colonel Samuel Smith Skating Trail 3. Humber College / Cumberland House / The Gatehouse 4. Zakopane Deli / Albatros Pub 5. Kitchen On Sixth 6. Eighth Street Skate Park / Bosnian Islamic Centre 7. The Sydney Grind (depart 2:50pm) 8. Prince of Wales Park 9. Mr. Momo 10. Pemako Kitchen / Barrel House Korchma 11. Asters Patisserie 12. Waterfront Trail 13. Humber Bay Park West Parking Lot (depart 4:05pm) 14. Eau Du Soleil 15. Chiang Mai Thai Kitchen 16. Humber Bay Arch Bridge 17. Vos Restaurante Argentino 18. Tis Two Cities (arrive 5:30pm) **Neighbourhoods** New Toronto > Mimico > Humber Bay Shores **Map** [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ajJLym5E-5f-LSxd_dDER6GJ2vo2xQ0&usp=sharing](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1ajJLym5E-5f-LSxd_dDER6GJ2vo2xQ0&usp=sharing) **How it works** Hike starts punctually. Late or can't do the whole route? Meet us at scheduled checkpoints. We'll browse many food places but won't linger long. Grab ready-made food, or see the route in advance, organize takeout, then pickup along the way. Not sure what to try? Join our omakase for $5, which gives a tiny sample from different restaurants. Payment on the day of event by cash or e-transfer to [globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.](http://globaltorontoeats@gmail.com.) No refunds after orders are placed. Details of sampled food will be uploaded after the hike. Limited cutlery provided. Highly recommended to bring cutlery and containers for omakase and bringing back leftovers. See our [About section](https://www.meetup.com/hike-to-eat/) for more info.

Luxe hangout at the Four Seasons Toronto with craft cocktails, charcuterie & refined small plates.

Singles Dance Party + 40 Crowd Saturday March 7th $20.00 cover 7.30pm -12.30 The Old Mill 21 Old Mill Rd. Join us for a fun-filled evening of dancing, mingling, and making new connections! Whether you're new in town or a seasoned single professional, this event is perfect for you. Let loose and show off your dance moves as we groove to the latest beats, from Bachata to classic hits. This social networking opportunity is ideal for singles over 50 Get ready to relive the magic of past events like the "Saturday Night Singles Dance Party @ The Old Mill" and "An evening of Dancing & Romancing . Don't miss out on this chance to mix and mingle with other singles in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Grab your dancing shoes and get ready for a night to remember at our Singles Night Out! 416 236 8222.

Feline fancier? If yes , this is the trip for you. We'll be visiting the Niagara Falls area and their [lovely cat cafe. ](https://niagarafallscatcafe.ca/) Limited spots available for this so sign up soon. **REMINDER - clocks go forward at 2AM today so please ensure you're ready for that when planning your trip** We will be having lunch at the cat cafe. [ Full menu here](https://niagarafallscatcafe.ca/menu) **You are responsible for your own food/drink bill.** The $10 only covers 1hr at the cat cafe. **You must send your cat cafe $10 fee to nicolasbello@yahoo.com when you sign up for this event.** Our single-story venue was designed with accessibility in mind. There are NO steps/stairs at our Cafe and one of our two washrooms is accessibly sized! **Please read everything before signing up!** [WhatsApp for this event](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FDfbPqh5Xc3Kh39eFcQWsB) First and foremost, **there is lots and lots of walking on this trip.** We'll walk from train station to the cat cafe, attractions, lunch, etc. Please wear comfortable walking shoes. We'll also , of course, have to walk back to train at end of our day. **Only sign up if you're comfortable with a lot of walking.** **Cost for the GO Train Per Person:** $10 round-trip with their [weekend day pass deal](https://www.gotransit.com/en/partners-and-promotions/weekend-passes-with-go) . **Do not buy your pass until March 1**! Passes are valid for one week from purchase date. You can also pay with your Presto but it will cost more than $10 for the trip. Get the day pass instead. **The Day Of**: **Meetup Spot:** North side of Front St W. In front of Fairmont Royal York. Look for Nick who'll be holding Meetup signs **Meetup time:** 8:15AM and the **train WILL LEAVE AT 9:04AM**. SHARP! As per GO policy now the doors will close one minute earlier @ 9:03AM **If you are late you miss the train, and you miss the MEETUP.** **Arrival Time:** 11:25AM From there we have a short walk to the cats. From Noon-1PM we will have our cat cafe booking. All cats available for adoption as well. **By joining this event you're agreeing to come with us for the cat cafe + [lunch experience](https://niagarafallscatcafe.ca/menu) . You must send your cat cafe $10 fee to nicolasbello@yahoo.com when you sign up for this event.** Those that would like to join me after , can walk with me along the falls and enjoy the sights. Take photos and just chat with other members. There is a lot of other things to do at the falls. **Train Leaves:** **4pm SHARP** \- The train will leave right on time and\, as per GO policy now\, the doors will close one minute earlier at 3:59PM\. If you want to stay later or overnight you can make your own arrangements. If you wish to return to Toronto later there are trains at 7:58PM and 10PM [PDF train schedule here ](https://assets.metrolinx.com/image/upload/v1765347924/Documents/GO/full-schedules/FS20122025/TABLE01.pdf) Don't Forget to join our email list (Meetup does not send out emails to everyone in a group) to get our weekly news later about upcoming events: [http://eepurl.com/hKt76f](http://eepurl.com/hKt76f) Nick is the organizer for this meetup. If you need to contact him, please post a message on the wall, or email him nicolasbello@yahoo.com **THIS GROUP IS OPEN TO THOSE THAT WANT TO BE SOCIAL, MAKE FRIENDS, THAT ARE SINGLE OR NOT SINGLE. WE ALSO HAVE LOTS OF OTHER EVENTS LIKE, MOVIES, WALKS, HIKES, ARTS & CULTURE AND RESTAURANTS. WE LOVE TO SUPPORT MEMEBERS TO SOCIALIZE AND TO FORM LONG LASTING FRIENDSHIPS.** **Rules:** [Click Here!](https://www.meetup.com/toronto-movies-and-social-group/events/293241263/) **Getting The Best Out Of MeetUp:** [Click Here!](https://www.meetup.com/toronto-movies-and-social-group/events/293241269/) Don't Forget to join our email list (Meetup does not send out emails to everyone in a group) to get our weekly news later about upcoming events: [http://eepurl.com/hKt76f](http://eepurl.com/hKt76f) Facebook group @ [http://www.facebook.com/groups/502945113062739/](http://www.facebook.com/groups/502945113062739/)

**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!

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

We’re heading back to Scene75 on Friday, March 27 for a high-energy night of laser tag, mini golf, go-karts, arcade games, and whatever chaos we decide to get into. We’ve done this one before and it was a blast — great turnout, tons of laughs, and just the right mix of competition and hanging out. If you missed it last time, this is your shot. 🎯 What to Expect: Laser tag battles Mini golf challenges Go-karts (for those who need speed) Arcade games & game cards You can load however much you’d like onto a game card. Most people will probably be good with $15–$30, but it’s totally up to you. This is a super casual event — show up, jump into whatever looks fun, rotate groups, and hang out. No pressure, no complicated structure. Just a solid Friday night with good people. Also… I haven’t hosted in a bit and I’m making a push to be more active again. If you’ve got ideas for future events you’d love to do, bring them. I’m all ears. Let’s run it back. 🔥

**Karaoke Night**: Bring your glee club friends. Enjoy a flashback to your choir days. No chorus line. It's all you baby. Sing. Shout. Scream. Lip sync if you need to. But do show up and do have a good time. **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*

# **Band and caller TBA** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** 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 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. 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. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

**Summary** Celebrate America's 250th year and the [Columbus Clippers'](https://www.milb.com/columbus) 50th season by watching [Franklin County's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Clippers) best team play the [best game in the world](https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/babe_ruth_140116) at [one of the ten best](https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/minors/2025/03/26/huntington-park-voted-top-10-minor-league-ballparks-usa-today-10best-awards/82656048007/) baseball stadiums in the United States in their 2026 home Saturday opener! The first pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. The gates always open an hour before the scheduled first pitch. I'm usually at the ballpark a half an hour before the scheduled first pitch. Clippers' games usually last around two and a half hours. Being a few minutes early will help us secure good seats. **Parking** I personally always like to park in the [McConnell Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/McConnell+Garage/@39.9685114,-83.0103938,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388f24145462d1:0x6238c0f0c851ab70!8m2!3d39.9692957!4d-83.0081175!16s%2Fg%2F1jkw6y27y?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). If nothing else is going on in the area, this should be $7. However, I've also seen it be as high as $22. I can't say for certain what it will be for this game, but once I know, I will post in the comments. Alternately, there are other lots in the area you can try which will probably be a few dollars cheaper. [Here is a map](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/q_auto/milb/ernng44ya2xkr4wbheql) of all the garages and lots surrounding the stadium. Keep in mind that many of these are outdoor lots and your car will be out in the elements. If you decide to look for a different lot, I would mildly recommend either the Buggyworks Lot or the Broadbelt Lot, but I have never parked in either of these myself. Although it won't apply for this game, keep in mind that street parking is also free citywide in Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf). **Where We'll Be** Here is a [map of the ballpark](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/qkqohbqjgtx5uwo6zkgn.pdf). We'll be sitting on Level 3 of the [Left Field Building](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/huntington-park) (aka the "AEP Power Pavilion"), which features a 110 foot bar with six open patios overlooking the field. This area is covered and will be out of any sun or rain that may transpire. If you enter the park through the Center Field Entrance (which is at the intersection of Nationwide Blvd. and Neil Ave.), there will be a door to your immediate right after you enter that leads to a staircase up into the Tower. This door is not well-marked, and if you've never been to Huntington Park before, you may wonder if you're actually allowed to go in and up the stairs. Yes, you are. We'll be on the Tower's "Level 3". I have uploaded to the Photos section of this event page, below, a picture of the sign you want look for after you ascend the stairs, so you'll know you're on the correct floor. **Tickets** Do not buy your tickets ahead of time. They will literally be twice as expensive if you buy them on Ticketmaster. Instead, go to the ticket window near the Center Field Entrance. Buy a *Standing Room Only* ticket (don't worry, you won't be standing), which will cost you a flat $8 with no other taxes or fees. These tickets never sell out, and this is the cheapest way to get into the park. **Carry-Ins** Per the team's [website](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/a-z-guide): "Soft-sided coolers are permitted in the general seating area [which is where we'll be], but not hard-sided coolers; also no alcohol, glass bottles, or cans will be permitted. SMALL bags or backpacks of food items and beverages in plastic bottles are ok. Reusable water bottles are permitted, but must be empty upon arrival. Diaper bags are allowed." I always bring a disposable plastic bottle of water and refill it as I need at the park. Bottled water at the game is something like 4 or 5 dollars. So if you want a bottle of water, I recommend bringing your own bottle instead of buying it at the park. **Food & Drink** The area we'll be in has burgers, hot dogs, salads, soft pretzels, ice cream, and other sorts of things you would expect at a baseball game. I've posted pics of the menu in the Photos section, below. The burger and fries are $14 plus tax, and they're not bad. (This is what I usually get.) The beer is *really* overpriced. It's like $9, or $20 for a pitcher. If there's some people to help me drink it, though, I'll buy a pitcher of Michelob Ultra. While we'll be on the penultimate floor of the Tower, the top floor (which has a great view, but is fully exposed to the elements) has a [Dirty Frank's](https://dirtyfranks.com/) hot dog stand. I've never gotten anything from there, though I've been told it's good. The Donatos pizza stand is also a very short walk away from where we'll be. I love Donatos, but the pizza is so expensive at the ballpark. It's like $9 for a personal-sized pepperoni. It is good, though. **Peroration** Let's (watch them) play ball!

**Starliner Diner -** We'll shut down wine club at 8 pm this evening and take a short walk to our neighborhood eclectic eatery - Starliner Diner. Join us after wine club for a snack or meal. Starliner is a longtime favorite in Hilliard. Please RSVP early AND Please let me know in the comments if you plan to join us after at the diner so I can have accurate numbers for the reservations. **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*