Festivals

**🏖️ Codegarden 2026 Pre-Party: Beach Party at Knowit!** Kick off Codegarden 2026 with a night of meeting new and old friends over some drinks in beachy surroundings. Our friends at Knowit are opening their doors to host this year's official Codegarden pre-party. Whether you're a Codegarden veteran or a first-timer, this is the perfect chance to meet fellow attendees and swap stories before the main event begins. **🌊 The Theme: Beach Party** Dust off your Hawaiian shirts, bring your sunglasses, and get ready for summer vibes. **📅 The Details** Location: Knowit, Copenhagen (See map for address) Doors Open: 19:30 Vibe: Casual, Fun, Friendly **⚠️ Entry Requirements** Access to the Codegarden Pre-party is exclusively for attendees with a valid 2‑day in‑person Codegarden 2026 ticket. We can't wait to see you there and start the best week of the year together! 🍹🍍

Join a calming and creative workshop where we work with pure, natural beeswax. Over 2.5–3 hours, participants will make several types of candles – free-standing rolled candles, hand-dipped tapers, and poured tealights. Along the way, you’ll learn about the unique properties of beeswax and its fascinating origin in the beehive. All materials are included. **Les Amis** is a women-only community of friendly souls. We provide access to hundreds of experiences that explore your passions and connect you with other event participants. **Check our website to learn more, and apply to join our community and events**: [lesamis.cc/apply](https://www.lesamis.cc/apply)

We are a group of people meeting on Tuesdays to socialize around cooking and eating together. Usually around 40-50 people. Many are international students, but also other people join. The foodclub exist independent of Meetup, we invite you because we have room for a few more people. The food is vegan and made from donated leftover veggies from a local greengrocery. The place has originally hosted leftwing activist groups, and many of the people joining are also involved in political groups. If you want to join for chopping and cooking, we will be doing that from 3 to 6 pm. It is possible to join part of the time. From 6:30 to 8pm we are serving food. Donation around 30 kroner. If you are helping out some hours, chopping, cooking or cleaning, you can eat for free. From 8 to 9 - 9:30 pm we are cleaning up the place. We hope to see you in our lovely foodclub <3

Microsoft Build //localhost as a collaborative community event in Lyngby, Denmark. (Microsoft venue.) PLEASE NOTE - REGISTRATION IS HERE: [Microsoft Build //localhost:lyngby | Microsoft Reactor](https://developer.microsoft.com/en-us/reactor/events/27100/) In a collaboration between us and Azure Copenhagen, we will host a post Microsoft Build event called //localhost. * We will speak about the news from Microsoft Build. * We will host a hands on lab where you can learn and test some of the latest technology. * We end the meetup with a community mingle opportunity. Space is limited for this event so sign up NOW! <3

Booked pitch at Holmen. Pitch is booked until 22.30 💰 **Cost:** 10 kr Mobilepay: 9539SH Revolut: [revolut.me/frederwnn](https://revolut.me/frederwnn) Or bring Cash * Event begins at 20:15 * You must sign out no later than 9:00 same day * Spots are non-transferable (you cannot reserve a spot and send someone else in your place) * Members who follow the rules and attend regularly will be given priority **Be at the pitch at 20.15 sharp!** Minimum 14 players by midnight and we play! Otherwise the game is cancelled. We aim for 8v8. The game is naturally for everyone no matter gender, level or anything. We emphasise on having fun! That also means no risky tackles or foul language. Bring a white and a black t-shirt and a ball if you have one. **Last minute sign-off's** (Later than 9AM on the same day) or no-shows will be banned from the next games and be put in the no-show list. 3 Strikes and you're out for a full year - no exceptions

An AI Masterclass designed for women in tech who want to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape. This workshop style class focuses on the latest developments, tools, and real-world applications, providing a space to deepen knowledge, exchange insights, and continuously upskill. Through hands-on sessions and peer learning, participants strengthen their ability to apply AI strategically, in practice and drive impact in their roles. This AI Masterclass is structured around three interactive modules: * **Future of Tech and Tech Roles** Led by **Mina Ashna,** **Senior Tech Lead & Architect at Impact**, this session looks ahead at how AI is transforming roles, skills, and the direction of the tech industry. * **Vibe Coding for All – No Previous Experience Needed** Led by **Cecilia Battelini,** **Tech Lead and AI Learning Owner at SimCorp**, this hands-on session introduces how to build with AI tools—accessible to everyone regardless of technical background. * **Vibe Coding Complex Applications – Technical Background Beneficial** Led by **Angela Timofte,** **CTO & Co-founder at Stride and former VP Engineering at Trustpilot**, this session explores building more advanced AI-powered applications and workflows. 👉 **Please bring your laptop** to fully participate. ⏰ **Please arrive at 17:00 sharp** to ensure a smooth start. 📍 **Location:** Hosted at SimCorp 🍽️ **Food & drinks will be provided** 🎟️ **Registration:** Limited amount of seats - [SIGN UP VIA BILLETTO](https://billetto.dk/e/ai-masterclass-simple-site-to-complex-app-billetter-1925186?utm_source=organiser&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=copy_link&utm_content=2) ! https://billetto.dk/e/ai-masterclass-simple-site-to-complex-app-billetter-1925186?utm_source=organiser&utm_medium=share&utm_campaign=copy_link&utm_content=2 🛫 **Prepare:** Create an account at [GitHub](https://github.com/signup?ref_cta=Sign+up&ref_loc=header+logged+out&ref_page=%2F&source=header-home) (no other actions needed) **New Signup Flow** As TechWomen Cph continues to grow, we’re updating our signup process to better support our events. Recent gatherings have reached several hundred signups, and to ensure a high-quality experience for everyone, we are introducing a ticket fee. The fee helps us manage logistics such as venue, food, and beverages, and allows us to plan events that match the size and needs of our community. **All food and drinks are included**, and no additional charges will apply. Tickets are fully refundable up to 3 days before the event. **TechWomen Cph is a registered non-profit association (*forening*)** in Denmark. **All revenue goes directly toward covering event costs, and any surplus is reinvested into supporting our community and activities.** We truly hope you’ll continue to enjoy and gain value from our events for a long time to come.

**Co-working for writers in Amager!** Join us for an hour of focused writing time. All writers and all experience levels are welcome and don’t worry, no one will see what you've written. This session is about getting your writing done and meeting other writers in the area. We meet in this lovely spacious café, chilled out, usually not very busy at this time, with an on-site bakery of delicious pastries. Once everyone is here and settled, I will lead a quick introduction, and then set the timer for our quiet and focused writing session. After the hour is up feel free to chat / take off / keep writing if you're on a roll. We often talk about our successes and challenges as writers, and it can be a great way to learn from eachother. **A note about the format** We don’t host critiques or readings. These events are a safe space for writers of all skill levels and genres to work on their craft, so no one will read or critique your writing. For our full event schedule, visit [https://shutupwrite.com](https://shutupwrite.com) **Practical Details:** WiFi name / password: Kasada / haveaniceday Travel / Parking info: Kasada is just a few minutes walk from Lergravsparken Metro Station. We've reserved the large round table in the main room, with power outlets if you need one. Venue Guidelines: Please thank our hosts by purchasing something.

**𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 – the international week-breaker** Your favorite after-work/after-uni bar night to connect, relax, and meet amazing people at ease. for context (as frequently asked): ***\- we are always many more people than sign up here on meetup as most traffic and updates happen on IG*** ***\- average age range is from 20\-30 \(everyone is welcome\)*** Yet another amazing year of Dear World the way we know it - together! At Bodega, we stocked up on board games to get cozy and competitive while social of course. 📸 IG @dearworldcph (for impressions from past events!) As the days are colder and shorter, we’re bringing the energy to our nights – with over 100+ at our bar nights and 200+ at our parties, 𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 keeps growing! For almost 2 years now, we’ve been uniting Copenhagen’s international crowd (and locals) – countless nationalities, shining in different languages 🌍 Think easy-going conversation starters like flags, rotating chat charms & playful questions – all designed to spark great chats and eliminate any awkwardness. 📍 BODEGA DANZA, Flæsketorvet 13A, 1711 Copenhagen 🕖 When: starting at 19:00 (hosts & stickers until 22:00, the night continues however long you like) Let’s raise a glass, meet familiar and new faces, and break the week – together 🥂 𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗟𝗗 The space for internationals and open-minded locals to connect in Copenhagen. Whether you’re looking to socialize, network, make friends, or simply vibe – just show up. Come solo or bring your crew – we’ve got you. Got questions? DM us on Instagram @dearworldcph or reach out to the host here. Let’s make Wednesdays the new favorite day of the week 🌇

**This event is for international professionals in Sweden or those planning to move to Sweden for work.** **View available jobs on our website and LinkedIn** [https://www.englishjobs.se/all-jobs](https://www.englishjobs.se/all-jobs) **You can sign up for the event on our website here:** [https://www.englishjobs.se/events](https://www.englishjobs.se/events) # **MEET RECRUITERS** Each week, we host a networking evening focused on an industry such as media, finance, tech, hospitality, gaming, etc. This event is invite-only, based on industry and experience, to ensure the best quality event for all attendees. Meet and network with recruiters hiring in your industry. Meet other professionals and expand your contact network. **What do you get?** Grow your career and contact network. Meet with people working at companies and get an insight into what it is like to work there. Learn about Swedish work culture. **What do you need to bring?** Don't forget your business cards!! Each event is catered for with food and drinks sponsored by a company. As there is limited capacity due to venue space fire regulations, and catering space. * **This is an invite-only event.** * **\*You must apply to attend\*** # **HOW TO GET AN INVITE?** **Step 1: Register our website here. Refreshments will be served, and you can select your dietary preferences on the website:** https://www.englishjobs.se/events **Step 2: Check your inbox for an invite confirmation** If there is a match with the industry theme and recruiters are attending, you will receive an email invitation from EnglishJobs.se **Step 3: Accept or Decline the invite** If you get a place, you will get a confirmation email from englishjobs.se with the address and door code. If you can attend, you must **ACCEPT** it. If you cannot attend, you must **DECLINE** it, so that we can give your spot to the next person on the waiting list. If you do not get an invite by email, it means the event is full or your chosen industry did not match the week's event theme. You will get an automatic email if a spot becomes available. # **IMPORTANT** * If you do not have a confirmed place, please **DO NOT SHOW UP** at the venue * Please **IGNORE all automated reminders** and automated emails from Meetup.com * We use a different system to manage our events. **You must RSVP on our website, NOT on Meetup.** **Questions?** Please email elsa@englishjobs.se Thanks and see you there, Elsa

Escape the winter chill and immerse yourself in an evening of creativity, conversation, and coziness. Join us for a **Cocktails & Collage** a seasonal gathering that celebrates Danish *hygge* through drinks and imaginative art-making. Set in a contemporary art gallery turned into a creative studio for the night, you’ll begin with a delicious cocktail or a glass of wine and even alcohol-free option will be available. Once you test our cocktails you can settle into a candlelit workspace stocked with vintage magazines, colorful papers, fabrics, and other tactile treasures. A collage artist will guide the group through a meditative cut-and-paste flow where you’ll create a visual piece rooted in seasonal themes like winter coziness, Copenhagen memories, or dream landscapes. Whether you come with friends or on your own, this cozy and creative evening will leave you inspired, relaxed, and ready for winter. The bar will keep open for those who want to explore more of our cocktail menu Note: The event is free but does not include the drinks

Tickets here: [www.TheSilvers.dk](www.thesilvers.dk) Here in Copenhagen we have started a movement of weekly dinners (on a Wednesday) hosted by the senior generation in their own homes. Seniors with 60+ years of life experience who are community leaders, intellectuals, artists, storytellers, and want to share their experience over dinners for a small group each time. Every Wednesday there is dinner hosted by a different Silver (senior host) who will open their front door, welcome a group of 5-8 people into their home, and share their stories, knowledge, and connections across the table over a themed evening. Each host chooses their own theme and it is the aim to pass on their hard-earned knowledge.

Rainbow Group Copenhagen goes dancing 🌈🪩💃Let’s get out and go out together to enjoy some dancing at Never Mind 💫 Before we are going to meet at Oscars Bar&Cafe to have time to get to know each other and - if you want - to enjoy some drinks. 🍷🍻🍶 ℹ️‼️Some important info: This event is part of the Rainbow Group Copenhagen. We aim to create a safe space, especially for the queer community we are part of. This means zero tolerance for discrimination, including racism, ableism, ageism, sexism, transphobia, homophobia, queerphobia, or cultural disrespect. 🕘 Start Time: 21:00 📍Meeting Point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2yTbCmbsKjVt85fq9?g_st=ic

Stop by and meet people in a positive and save space, very Friday at 8:30 pm just after our abstract workshop we start our **Speed Portrait and Cocktails event.** Before continuing your journey into the vibrant Copenhagen we invite you for a creative stop, to develop some quality interaction and create a truly hygge atmosphere in an artistic space. Set in a contemporary art gallery turned into a creative studio for the night, our **Speed portrait & cocktails** event blends with the city night life adding to Copenhagen artistic vibe and cozy atmosphere. An event that mixes caribbean hospitality, minimal aesthetic and Copenhagen coziness. As well we offer locals and temporary locals an artistic retreat from the intensity of the city. Note: Some materials are free but not the drinks.

**READ THROUGH BEFORE SIGNING-UP (and ensure you check your meet-up chat regularly :-) )** Can't think about a better way to wrap up the week then kayaking around the city channels. GreenKayak, a NGO dedicated to raise awareness to ocean pollution, makes few (open) kayaks available across the city to paddle and help collecting waste floating in the water. Open kayaks are typically easier to manovre than other types, and do not require EPP2/EPP3 patents. I booked 2 double kayaks for 4 ppl in total. It is possible to use the facilities at Kayak Republic free of charge: restrooms, lockers and showers. **REQUIREMENT** \- Safety first \- Need to be able to swim comfortably \- Waterproof gear preferable \- Sun lotion and sunglasses \- Change of clothes in case yours get a bit wet during paddling \- Towel\, if you want to shower or just in case **COST** Unfortunately, due to the frequent last minute cancellation last summer, it was challenging backfilling participants with short or no notice, and it was very disrespectful to the group and GreenKayak NGO. **To reserve your spot, please transfer 150 kr. to my mobilepay 25717293**. The amount will be returned to you if you show up on time, or the event is cancelled for other reasons; **this remains a free non-profit event**. The kayak rental is free of charge provided that: \- we are able to pick\-up some waste during our paddling activity \- we share our experience on the So\.Me \#GreenKayak **AGENDA** 16:50- Meet up - please be on time 🙂 16:50-17:00 Briefing and getting ready 17-00-18:45 Paddling around Copenhagen channels and return to the start point 18:45-19:00 Return the equipment to Kayak Republic **DISCOMFORT LEVEL** \- 3/5 **TO LEARN MORE** [GreenKayak](https://www.greenkayak.org/)

Let's stroll the artists' booths and enjoy some of the festival's opening day! The Columbus Art Festival features a wide and vibrant range of visual art from local and national exhibitors, plus, live music, and all kinds of food and refreshments, along the waterfront downtown. (The featured painting is by Columbus Art Festival exhibitor, Joe Engel - joe-engelart.com)

Now in its 26th year, [The Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/), in Gahanna, gathers world famous groups and performers at a single place for you to enjoy the best Blues & Jazz in Ohio. *SATURDAY NIGHT features: The Urban Jazz Coalition with Special Guest Brian Simpson, North Mississippi Allstars, The Deal Breakers & More.* The three-day cultural celebration features musicians on 3 stages, local food trucks and beverage stations, treats, artisans, and more. **Tickets are $15 for adults online.** Link to purchase tickets: [Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival Tickets](https://tickets.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/e/2026-creekside-blues-jazz-festival). $20 at the door. Military are free. WHAT: Here's the festival [EVENT MAP](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Event-Map/). Also, here's the [SCHEDULE](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Schedule/) map to help you determine who to see. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Parking -** The Creekside Parking Garage will be open throughout the festival weekend. Entrance is located near the intersection of Mill and North Streets; accessible only by traveling south on Mill Street. **Event parking rate is $5 and collected at entrance to garage. Cash ONLY is accepted at garage entrance for parking.** Although off street parking in the Creekside District is permitted, it is very limited and not recommended. **Shuttle Service** pickup will be at the following location: [AEP Ohio 700 Morrison Rd., Gahanna, OH](https://goo.gl/maps/K9GgvgEdxCHaXsKDA) **Shuttle Service Hours:** Saturday: 1 PM - 12 AM **BRING**: *Be sure to bring a **chair** since there is limited available seating. Also $ or paycard for food and drink.*

**Summary** The [Ohio State Fair](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/) is consistently ranked as one of the [best](https://www.realpropertymgt.com/expert-tips/top-5-state-fairs) ... [state](https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-state-fair/) ... [fairs](https://www.dispatch.com/story/entertainment/local/2025/08/06/ohio-state-fair-named-top-fair-nation-usa-today/85527343007/) ... [in](https://www.blueribbongroup.net/blue-ribbon-foodies/tag/what-are-the-best-state-fairs-in-the-united-states/) ... [America](https://614now.com/2025/explore-columbus/usa-today-names-the-ohio-state-fair-as-one-of-the-countrys-best-find-out-where-it-ranked-here). By [acreage](https://www.google.com/search?q=largest+state+fairs+in+us+by+acreage&client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=5a1ec5f7868eb06c&prmd=ivns&sxsrf=AE3TifOrRyB0UF_zcJxuzJ2blALpROCfFA:1763485805100&source=lnms&fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZPH5QghoXViUOqdFyhkUfHhA90f6RZnLvcDKUWyhDavFJHvqNnhR_vnElk0C8uWstYqkR_Pamh3VQhx9plk87wYYnFhXCtQ6JPByPAvG0_LeyIQszFojQ7tWAfAvDzo6MwRJuWxS0jrzFWBkVvjkxbHuA6PTQnwEl88m-YBBItnTFmNlR9xZ9YLttetzKJB1GAWacLg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiX3-rHmPyQAxU6_8kDHcKPH1gQ0pQJegQIBRAF&biw=1735&bih=926&dpr=1), it's one of the five largest fairs in the country. And a million people [visit](https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2025-08-06/attendance-off-slightly-at-2025-ohio-state-fair-but-sales-of-champions-was-up-big) it each year. Last year's [attendees](https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/nearly-1-million-visitors-2025-ohio-state-fair-fun-facts-statistics/530-e6c7db59-e9ca-469b-9d3e-ef39011aca00) came from each of Ohio's 88 counties, from all 50 states, and from as far away as 26 other countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, and others, according to Ticketmaster sales data. **Map of the Fair** Here is a [map of the grounds](https://cdn.saffire.com/images.ashx?t=ig&rid=OhioStateFair&i=map2025.jpg&cb=0508a2a3). **Directions, Parking, Tickets, Timing** Take exit 111 (17th Avenue) off of I-71. Turn west (toward the McDonald's). [Parking is $10](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours) whether you pay in advance or on-site. It's generally not too bad getting in and out of the fair. You generally get an excellent spot, too, early in the mornings. There are cops everywhere and they will let you know where to park. Tickets are $12 at the gate or [$8 in advance](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours). You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $20 and $75, respectively. All advance tickets are available May 1 through July 22. I've scheduled this meetup from 9 to 3, but you can obviously come late or leave early if you want. They will also stamp your hand for free same-day re-admission if you want. The fair is a big place. You will get plenty of steps in at this event, so be prepared to do some walking! **Outside Items** From the [FAQ](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/faqs): * *Bags* "Purses, backpacks, book bags, coolers, strollers, etc. are permitted, but are subject to search. Bag searches will also be conducted for guests entering concerts and events in the WCOL Celeste Center." * *Outside Food and Beverage* "You may bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted on grounds." I like to bring a disposable plastic bottle of water with me and refill it on the grounds as I go. **What's New at the Fair** They've spent the last couple years doing major construction at the fair, and most if not all of it should be completed by the start of this year's fair. They've been massively overhauling what's located at the heart of the fairgrounds just north of Kiddleland and just west of the Midway, they're supposed to also have completed improvements to the Dairy Building. In the center of the fairgrounds, there's supposed to be a new food hall, which I would consider to be the centerpiece of the whole shebang. It's supposed to [include](https://www.ohioexpocenter.com/p/about/expo-2050-master-plan) "multi-purpose dining and event space and incubator kitchens on the first floor, and additional dining and event space on the second story." Furthermore, "both levels [will] include outdoor dining on a patio or balcony." A new "Town Square" and surrounding area will also feature a permanent "Ohio-themed carousel" that will also be "complete with ample shade and seating." The new Dairy Building will be air-conditioned and add public restrooms, a universal changing table, and other new amenities. Four hundred and sixty million dollars have been spent on these improvements and renovations, and I expect they will be very cool! **Where We'll Meet** At no later than 9 a.m., I'll be standing by the giant cardinal just inside Cardinal Gate 1, then we'll wander down to Tracey's (see below). If you come late, Tracey's is where you'll find us (DM me or drop a note in the comments if you need help finding us after you arrive). *Note: There's a smaller Tracey's booth near the main entrance. This is not the Tracey's location we'll be meeting at. You will have to walk down to the Bricker Marketplace to get to the correct Tracey's. There's more information on this, below, in the "What We'll Do" section.* If you want to come later in the day, drop me a note and I'll help you navigate to us or I'll come find you if that's feasible. **What We'll Do** This will be sort of a soft itinerary, depending on the interests of the group. The following is based on last year's [fair schedule](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/events), and might need to be changed depending on this year's schedule. But the overall fair schedule doesn't normally change that radically year-over-year. * 9:00 a.m. - *Tracey's* Tracey's is located at the northernmost part of the "WNCI Food Highway," just south of Brown Arena and at the northern corner of the Bricker Marketplace. They have a covered area with picnic tables where you can sit. They have one of the most varied food selections at the fair. They serve breakfast in the mornings, including eggs, bacon, and pancakes. We'll meet here and start our day by socializing over coffee and, if you want, breakfast. Last year, the pancakes with bacon was $7. You got two pancakes that I would describe as average-sized, and a couple strips of bacon. They gave me extra syrup for free. Both the pancakes and the bacon were actually pretty good. Their coffee is generally good, too. They also serve their coffee in Styrofoam cups, which I like because good coffee is more important to me than the environment. I've posted pics, below, of last year's Tracey's menu, as well as a picture of the venue itself relative to the main entrance of the Bricker Marketplace (this entrance faces the Celeste Center). * 10:00 a.m. - *Kasich Hall* Here they have the Ohio State Fair history exhibit, which is very cool. This building also hosts the creative exhibits, including quilts, cakes and pastries, and fair posters. Finally, events like girls' baton competitions, girls' cheerleading, youth choir, and youth boxing (my favorite) are held here. * 11:00 a.m. - *Lausche Youth Exploration Space* This building features 4-H exhibits, Boy and Girl Scout exhibits, and various science exhibits, with the latter including exhibits from COSI and the Ohio State Physics Department. You can also buy Girl Scout cookies here! * 12:00 a.m. - *Bricker Marketplace* Bricker Marketplace is the fair's main flea market. It's a huge indoor shopping area with a food court at its center. The [ODOT](https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/) booth is here, and I always like to check and see if they have any maps I want. Because Bricker is air-conditioned, it's a good place to stop for lunch. There are booths here with burgers, pizza, chicken, Asian food, and alcoholic beverages. * 1:00 p.m. - *Cox Fine Arts* There are art displays here -- paintings, drawings, sculptures, and such. I always like going through here, and people usually like the displays here. * 2:00 p.m. - *Natural Resources Park* The Natural Resources Park is next to Kiddieland, and I think it's the best area of the fair. It's certainly a very popular area. The Timber Show is popular, though I confess to finding it slightly overrated. This area also includes youth fishing, a kayak pond, archery range, butterfly house, aviary, and animal exhibits -- and these are all free. You can also get free chap stick and pens in the [Oil & Gas building](https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/oil-gas/oil-gas). The chap stick is functional, though perhaps a bit mediocre, but the pens are absolutely the best possible pens you can get anywhere, and I'm being completely serious about this. These are seriously my all-time favorite pens, so I encourage you to grab a few. **Other Things Along the Way** Again, the Ohio State Fair is a big place! So here are some of the other things we might check out along the way: * *The* *Cincinnati Circus Company, The Nerveless Nocks, Lady Houdini, or some other "death-defying" act* These typically start at 1:30 and run once every two hours in the afternoon. The show is generally decent and worth catching, whatever it happens to be. These used to run at the south end of the fair by the south gate on 11th Avenue, but a couple years ago they moved them to the south end of the Midway and next to Natural Resources Park. My guess is that this is where they will be again this year. * *Main Street Stage / Gazebo Stage* These stages are at opposite ends of the "WNCI Food Highway." They'll have shows like live music, magic, hypnosis, juggling, and the like. I usually end up seeing most of the shows, almost by accident, during my annual trips to the fair. If there's music at the Gazebo, though, it can be a little loud if the performer is using a big amp. But otherwise the shows are generally entertaining, if not spectacular. If [The Beach Geeks](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1440916777197254) are playing again this year, we are absolutely dropping everything to check them out. I'll fight people on this. * *The Midway* I'm not a big *riding*-the-rides person, and I doubt we will go through here though unless there's interest. However, I do really enjoy *watching* people ride rides, so I never have a problem taking a stroll down the Midway. I do like doing bumper cars, though, as well as some of the various haunted or fun houses. If you think there's a snowball's chance in hell I'm doing the [Defender](https://talleyamusements.com/attraction/defender/), though, then please put the bong down and slowly back away. * *The Dairy Building* This is where the famous Butter Cow is, and the exhibit is always popular. You can also get fairly overpriced ice cream and milkshakes here. Unless something changes here because of their renovations, there are cheaper places at the fair where you can get dairy desserts, and I can show you where they are. * *Taft Coliseum* An indoor arena where they have rodeo- or cowboy/cowgirl-type shows. Sometimes these shows are very good and entertaining and worth checking out. Note that, while you're out of the sun here and the seating is generally good, the arena is not air-conditioned. If trick riders [Tracie Spitznogle](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tracie-lee-spitzongle) and [Carlie Hale](https://www.facebook.com/trickriderCarlie/) are here, you are likely to enjoy their show, and it will be free (and well-attended). * *The Petting Zoo* & *Pig Races* These used to be in Kiddieland, but in 2025 they were moved to "The Barnyard," next to the Gazebo Stage and the Celeste Center. I suspect they'll have moved again in 2026, but that they will otherwise be back. They're both free and generally popular, with the Pig Races being *extremely* popular. The woman who does the announcing for the Races always delivers the exact same script year after year, but she has so much charisma you won't care, even if you've seen it many times before. * *Central Park* Sometimes I like to just sit here, people-watch, and listen to the sounds of the fair. There are typically several beer vendors right next to Central Park if you want to relax and nurse a beverage while you do so, and the Dairy Building is also very close by. This area may end up being superseded in desirability by the new "Town Square." The Park does suffer from a paucity of shade, and the Square is supposed to rectify some of this. We will see! * *Live Music* There is likely to be some sort of band performing classic rock from something like 2p-5p either in the Taste of Ohio Pavilion next to the Natural Resources Park, or in the Pavilion's replacement/renovated area near the new Town Square. The show will be free and highly likely to be quite good. You should be able to get drinks and food here, too (wherever the ultimate location is), while you check out the band. * *Zultar - Fortune Teller* I saw this guy for the first time last year. He's one of the fair's "strolling entertainers," meaning he takes his act all over the fair and you never know where he will show up next. He's got a "booth" and he wears a costume and face paint that make him look exactly like one of those fortune-telling-booth mannequins. He is completely hilarious (particularly when dealing with children), and if we see him, we will stop and watch him. Don't make me fight you on this, too, people. * *Ohio History Center* Buying a ticket to enter the Ohio State Fair will automatically get you free admission to the [Ohio History Center](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-history-center/) and [Ohio Village](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-village/), which are located just outside the fairgrounds but otherwise are just next door. They've been doing major renovations of the Village, but these are supposed to be completed by the time the State Fair opens this year. You can walk from the fair to the History Center and the Village, or they have a free shuttle you can take. It's not a short walk, but it's also eminently doable. The History Center is a museum that's really not too terribly big, but is very interesting. And the Village is a living simulation of life in a small 19th-century Ohio town. I suspect most of the people who come out this Meetup would probably enjoy both the Center and the Village. Just keep in mind, though, that if we go, we'll probably be up there for at least a couple hours, which means less time at the fair. However, you won't have to twist my arm to get me to go up, because the whole History complex is actually pretty cool. **Conclusion** Come on out to the Ohio State Fair! 🥳 🎉 😄

Join us for the best **fireworks** show in the Columbus area, [Dublin Independence Day Celebration](https://www.visitdublinohio.com/event/independence-day-celebration/203/)! **7pm**: *We'll gather at **Urban's Pint House*** to meet n greet for a bit and grab some drinks and eats. **8:30pm**: *Head over the* **Bridge to Old Dublin** and **Getaway Brewing** (*second meetup spot*). **9:30pm**: *walk across the street to secure space on the* **top level of the Library Parking Garage.** **9:50pm**: **FIREWORKS SHOW!** **AFTERPARTY**: traffic is bad for a while so either get in line to exit the parking garage OR hang out at **PINS** (or Roosevelt Room) open til late back at Bridge Park. **PARKING**: the garages all around Bridge Park are free!