Festivals

Part 3 of our celebration of the Year of the Horse takes us once again to one of our community favorites, Mark's Duck House in Falls Church. We will be ordering a la carte, which should allow more freedom to order things that we like or even go "family style" if that's what your table chooses. Here's the link if you wish to peruse their menu: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qGwAZxwFPalz7R0ZK6NTPlkFte38bw4F/view](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1qGwAZxwFPalz7R0ZK6NTPlkFte38bw4F/view) We really want to try and fill out our tables with attendees, so we ask that you be diligent with managing your RSVPs. The RSVP mechanism will close 24 hours before the start of the event, so make your decisions by then so that we can give the restaurant an accurate head count! Disclaimer that we have to say even though we don't want to.........Just a heads up that we may have to give out "No Show" labels to those who don't follow our attendance protocol, but we know you don't want that Scarlet Letter, so don't let it be you! Also, please do not show up if you are not in the field of attendees! You will only anger the horse! As always, a bonus activity could follow if the mood is right! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you have Instagram, you can check out our account at asiandiningandadventuregroup for photos and announcements of group outings!

All professionals in the DMV and MidAtlantic area are invited! This event is to every and each professional in different industry, sector and specialization to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment, to meet other professionals, to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global professionalism. ***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will give out name tags and you write your name and your industry/sector/specialization. However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that area. DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR BUSINESS CARD. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well. 3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](mailto:info@merevents.com)). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.*** ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** \- Come one\, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\! \- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member\. \- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\. ***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).*** **FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITELINK. IT RULES.** [) [) [) [) [) [) [) http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg

**Social Sips & Bite and El Ray - ONE NIGHT. BIG ENERGY. ALL YOU**. This is not a regular night out. This is a celebration of the people who make this group unforgettable. Social Sips & Bites and El Ray are joining forces to throw a high-energy, feel-good, can’t-miss night dedicated to YOU. Surprise drinks El Ray has surprise drinks for Social Sips & Bites members as a thank-you. Come early and enjoy what they have lined up. NOW FOR THE FUN PART… THE TALENT SHOW Got a hidden talent? Or one you’ve been waiting to unleash? **This is your stage.** * Sing * Dance * Stand-up comedy * Storytelling * Spoken word or poetry * Magic tricks * Impressions or characters * Group performances * Anything creative, fun, or surprising. No pressure. No judgment. Just good vibes, loud cheers, and a room full of friends rooting you on. WE VOTE. YOU WIN. The crowd will vote for the Best Talent of the Night, expect bragging rights, applause, and serious hype. Whether you’re performing or cheering from the sidelines, this night is about community, creativity, and celebrating the people who show up and make this group what it is. ✨ Big energy ✨ Big appreciation ✨ Big fun Come shine. Come support. Come celebrate. This is Social Sips & Bites at its best.

**This is not a lecture. This is a working session.** If you’re tired of real estate events where someone talks at you for an hour and you leave inspired but still unsure what to actually do, this class is different. Investor 101 is a collaborative, hands-on experience designed to help you think through your own numbers, your own goals, and your own strategy in real time. You won’t just listen, you’ll participate, ask questions, work through scenarios, and leave with tools and frameworks you can use long after the event. We start with where to get the money, then walk through how to choose the right investment strategy, cash flow, equity growth, or a blend of both. You’ll learn how different property types perform in specific DMV neighborhoods and how to match the right area to your personal financial goals. Every concept is grounded in local examples, real scenarios, and live discussion, so you can immediately apply what you’re learning. This class is led by a full team of experienced professionals, including a real estate agent, lender, and seasoned property manager, all of whom bring a bird’s-eye view of the DMV market from working across DC, MD, and VA. You’ll gain insight not just from theory, but from professionals who actively see deals, financing challenges, rental trends, and tenant demand across the region. By the end of the class, you will leave with clear, actionable next steps, a personalized investment framework, and the confidence to begin your real investing journey immediately, not “someday,” but now.

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.

Celebrating our many March Birthdays (including mine!) has become an annual tradition at Slater Run Vineyards. For 300 years, the Slater family has farmed along Goose Creek. In 2010,they added the grapevines and the rest is history. They grow 13 acres of vines on site and specialize in Bordeaux Style Red Blends. Slater Run Vineyards offers a Hunt Country wine experience with sweeping views overlooking the vineyard from a bright and airy tasting room. They allow us to bring our own food so let's have a birthday style celebration feast! March birthday babies, let us know if you will be celebrating with us!

ADMISSION & RESERVATIONS $15 ENTRY WITH DINNER RESERVATION 7-9PM (ONLY 50 SEATS AVAILABLE) -MAKE YOUR DINNER RESERVATION AT ON ST.ELMO RESTAURANT https://shorturl.at/iL9Q5 ————————————————— $20 earlybirds SOLDOUT ————————————————— $30 REGULAR ADMISSION AT DOOR —————————————————- Payment methods: ZELLE search 240-463-8954 (Juste Pehoua) CASHAPP [https://cash.app/$JUSTEPRESENTS](https://cash.app/$JUSTEPRESENTS?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5rhEU21hcIex_eHxAhftZYIKGiEq0jC4lC4eV6IPl89b9bD1PH4bUl1jhk5g_aem_1bUKB5HWykgllpF9tnpm-g) VENMO [https://venmo.com/u/JPEHOUA](https://venmo.com/u/JPEHOUA?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5rhEU21hcIex_eHxAhftZYIKGiEq0jC4lC4eV6IPl89b9bD1PH4bUl1jhk5g_aem_1bUKB5HWykgllpF9tnpm-g) CLOVER(6%tax applies) [https://tickets.cloveronline.com/menu/all](https://tickets.cloveronline.com/menu/all?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6rE82-tm4qKkJKLd5oB9Lhj-NUY_NP6CNKgqkmAN552LgNAriXx6ZSFtqoeQ_aem_6d0N890HkfXrKReq_KmfTQ) DC Matanga is celebrating “Black History Month” It's the "International Grown & Sexy". DRESS CODE: AfroPrint Colors DINNER 6:30-9PM: Enjoy a night out at On St. Elmo Restaurant, an upscale spot in Bethesda, MD (4915 St Elmo Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814). LIVE PERFORMANCES 9-11PM \- Percussions from around the world\- Joe Falero's Band from "Cuba to Puerto Rico Representing DC is “MIGHTY MOE”, Congas superstar as seen with Chuck brown band, Sugar Bear, Jill Scott , Doug E fresh juts to name a few and to celebrate SENEGAL AFROCUP CHAMPS with a live performance of Djembe & Tama (talking drum) by the very Talented MALARI Moore of Versatile Soundzz Ultimate INTL’Dance Social\*: Get ready to groove to Kizomba, Konpa, Afrobeats, Salsa, Bachata, Urbankiz, Old School, Dancehall, Hip Hop, R&B & Zouk DRESS CODE AfroPrint Colors ADMISSION & RESERVATIONS $15 ENTRY WITH DINNER RESERVATION 7-9PM (ONLY 50 SEATS AVAILABLE) -MAKE YOUR DINNER RESERVATION AT ON ST.ELMO RESTAURANT https://shorturl.at/iL9Q5 ————————————————— $20 earlybirds SOLDOUT ————————————————— $30 REGULAR ADMISSION AT DOOR —————————————————- PAY CASH, ZELLE, CA$HAPP OR VENMO Payement methods: ZELLE 240-463-8954 (Juste Pehoua) CASHAPP [$JUSTEPRESENTS](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fcash.app%2F%24JUSTEPRESENTS%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5-LwxPW2mVdIT7-fs4bBKzMa4azFzSoYOu23mYgKpB8PaktKw9BIuG06pCJw_aem_DihK7TgYdfrPGGALTjkSmA&h=AT69VW9isGJNdD3XFRQOaLPmO_oimsi2gCSB3WpakbTRxVrECWq1mglBRQ1lY4u5V2b-CrYnU4ikJKOI7YcmTtHev5RVPlx1eYTyc1F2NKfwRSIY7SmrI8dlj3ZYcgea6dTstOVmMdSMKeQgi2c&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT6A4wlNyNHAugq6om_cg2HRbgXf5SS68qshaVW_hCnDRyW4BgTEdmdqbptKEyC0I2r5aWptNhUkBba6mIf50cM9Mlxea6DWQliIZ4b2g9FmZGRYVXbJsyaDYNCcdBbDRU_v3ha8PmYfu3jCnCP4vIac0Q5iXg) VENMO [JPEHOUA](https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fvenmo.com%2Fu%2FJPEHOUA%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExOUd2eW1URG9qSkk0aVhSVXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5-LwxPW2mVdIT7-fs4bBKzMa4azFzSoYOu23mYgKpB8PaktKw9BIuG06pCJw_aem_DihK7TgYdfrPGGALTjkSmA&h=AT7ReerLT3xI5V_AB-NTImjF3HOFn1SDPMu7PkxGpbKRa_q8m-tb6jMQcEbQpHyxPIMtSYTgmuMqXROYgDW2zLRHkA5Z7KKCIUzEgAPs_5qAysamq0AxXXFKzaG2SA-cRvJkrieNKoa89_QuVd8&__tn__=q&c%5B0%5D=AT6A4wlNyNHAugq6om_cg2HRbgXf5SS68qshaVW_hCnDRyW4BgTEdmdqbptKEyC0I2r5aWptNhUkBba6mIf50cM9Mlxea6DWQliIZ4b2g9FmZGRYVXbJsyaDYNCcdBbDRU_v3ha8PmYfu3jCnCP4vIac0Q5iXg) CLOVER(6%tax applies) https://shorturl.at/h7nV0

Just a little side note, but if you didn’t know, in addition to managing this fabulous Meetup, I also produce music events in Clarendon from time to time. We’ve got a very exciting event coming up on Saturday, February 28, 2026 @ the Renegade in Clarendon, VA. **Details** Washington, DC-area, join us for AN IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE and TRIBUTE TO DAVID LYNCH -- A Night at The Black Lodge. Autograph signing by Harry Goaz. Music by Fuck You, Tammy! aka "The Band From Another Place" and Wait In the Fire. Join us for an unforgettable night of surreal mystery and offbeat beauty with art, vendors, games and music. Explore surreal art installations inspired by Lynch’s dreamy logic. Check it out here:[https://nightattheblacklodge.com/](https://nightattheblacklodge.com/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExQ1V1Umk1TjA2eWtLTkFBaXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7ECXGKZVJTnacDglQ7p4ShuTav8sOLIriLek9wLiISDxLbFeA8Pu4mUx4FRQ_aem_TSDNDK5yMgdAPmVOdjCNHA) \*\* This is a paid event. Tickets required \*\*

March 1, 2026 located in Damascus at a private home, address will be given after registration. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*SOLD OUT\*\*\*\*\*\*\* 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Snacks provided $30.00 per person Gals… before we jump into the next busy season, we’re gathering for something a little different. Join us for a local Suitcase Gals pop-up Full Moon Cacao Gathering, an hour to pause, reset, and reconnect. Just like travel can expand us, this evening is about reflection, intention, and personal growth. Because the best journeys don’t only happen on airplanes — they begin within. We’ll sip ceremonial cacao, enjoy meaningful conversation, and set intentions under the energy of the full moon. This is less about travel plans and more about community, connection, and stepping into your next chapter with clarity. Whether you’ve joined a Suitcase Gals trip before or you’re simply curious to connect locally, you are so welcome. Spots are limited for this intimate gathering. [REGISTER](https://traveljoy.com/bookings/PjCyGKmEJ2PQpV1azXfTcgQC) Come as you are. Leave inspired for wherever life (or your suitcase) takes you next.

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

Et tu, betch? 🏺Join our host MisSir Wat, Oop C Daisy, Fish Patty, and Stella Stargayzer for two hours of songs about revenge and backstabbing, benefitting the Westerville Queer Collective! Good Vibes Winery will have wine, wine slushies, and some breakfast items for sale. 🏺 🔗Get your tickets here: https://donorbox.org/events/907893/steps/choose_tickets 🥂This is a 21+ show, a prize will be awarded to the person in the best toga! (Optional!) Benefitting The Westerville Queer Collective- dedicated to education, advocacy, pride, and outreach in the Westerville community. A portion of sales will go towards funding WQC Pride! All ticket sales will be processed via WQC's Donorbox page, we are not liable for any sales make through third-party vendors. Additionally, this event seconds as a food drive! Please consider bringing shelf stable food items for WQC's food pantry, located in Java Central.

**In March we will be making protest signs form carboard, paper, thick markers, and more! All supplies are provided, seats are limited! Come As you are, when you can; hope to see you there!**