Festivals
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Festivals Events Today
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TEAM USA’S BIGGEST MATCH YET! 🇺🇸🏆 USA vs BELGIUM 🏆🇺🇸
The stakes couldn’t be higher.
Team USA has advanced to the Round of 16! Now they’re just one win away from the World Cup Quarterfinals—but standing in the way is a talented Belgium squad.
There are no second chances.
Win and keep the dream alive. Lose and the World Cup journey ends.
Join Social Sips & Bites for what could be the biggest watch party of the tournament! Expect an electric atmosphere, passionate fans, great food, cold drinks, and 90+ minutes of edge-of-your-seat soccer.
Don’t watch this one at home. Be part of the excitement as we cheer Team USA into the Quarterfinals!
USA! USA! USA! 🇺🇸⚽🔥
Yoga Therapy: Stretch, Destress & Restore
Hit the pause button for an hour and reduce your stress. You will be compassionately guided through an exploration of intentionally linking your breath with the movement of both dynamic and static stretching and its impact on your (P)hysical, (I)ntellectual, (E)motional, and (S)piritual layers. Then experience the calming practice of restorative yoga which was designed specifically to move you from the fight, flight, or freeze state of the nervous system into the rest and digest state. Leave this all levels, accessible class feeling restored, renewed, and ready for what life has in store for you next.
**Please reserve your spot at www.piesfitnessyoga.com.** The session is offered InStudio only. **Sign up for sessions must be made at least 2 hours prior to class.**
The address is 1322 Prince St Alexandria, VA 22314.
Our entrance is located on the side of the building, parallel to West St. **Street parking is available and additional parking is located at Shiloh Baptist church, spaces 3,5,7,9.** The church is located across the street from the studio, on the corner of Duke St. and West St.
The Great American State Fair
This epic event will run for two weeks, I want to create a MeetUp giving others, like myself, a way to meet new friends and get out there for any day you have available. Each day will be a duplicate event, giving everyone the ability to sign up for the day they have free. I will not be at every event as I work three days a week, but I will put in the messages the days I'll be there. The Metro Smithsonian is a great place to meet since it's right at one of the two entrances. The only two entrances are at 12th and 4th and Jefferson. If you want to go to one or several of the days just hit the attend and message those who are also planning on attending that day. You can coordinate the times as well. Let's make new friends and experience the 250 anniversary of our country.
[https://www.freedom250.org/celebration/the-great-american-state-fair](https://www.freedom250.org/celebration/the-great-american-state-fair)
Yappy Happy Hour @ Spark Social
**NEW EVENT!!!** Please be sure to RSVP on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lgbtq-yappy-happy-hour-spark-social-tickets-1992838119461?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest list.
Pink Poodle Club is Spark's weekly Yappy Hour — every Monday on the back patio from 5–7pm. $1 Scooby Snacks for hoomans and $1 pup cups for the doggos.
Come join us for a fun and **dog-friendly** gathering! It’s the perfect chance to meet new people, share stories, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with the **LGBTQ+ community**. Whether you're looking to make friends or just hang out, everyone’s welcome. Grab your favorite drink and let’s make some great memories together!
This event is free to attend. We hope to see you there. In addition to coffee selections, the venue offers a good food and drinks [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2).
We encourage you to register your attendance in advance. We hope to see you there.
When you arrive with your dog, order on your own from the [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2). Then meet and mingle with LGBTQ+ folk and their dogs on the back patio.
**Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. U Street Metro (Yellow/Green line) is only a few blocks away. Take the 13th Street Exit. The venue is adjacent to Crush Bar.
This event is a safe space for everyone under the rainbow.
Please feel free to invite all your friends to join you there!
This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com)**, Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service.
It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com) . Go Gay DC's founder is **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**.
Go Gay DC is on social media:
Join the Facebook Group
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC)
Like the Facebook Page
[https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Instagram
[https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Threads
[https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc)
Follow on Bluesky
[https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/)
Follow on X
[https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC)
Watch on YouTube
[https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC)
LinkedIn
[https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ)
Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Two-Spirit Straight Allies
Latin Mondays - Salsa, Bachata, Reggaeton and More
Come join us in some debauchery for Latin Nights! We will be spinning all genres of latin music throughout the night, including Salsa/Bachata/Reggaeton and anything in between.
Salsa Lesson : 7pm-8pm
Socialize, mingle and dance the night away, your memorable night, rubbing your shoulder with DC's party snobs.
DEETS :
\- Huge line up of DJs
\- Celebrate your birthday or your moments \(graduation\, anniversary\, promotion\, retirement\, bachelor/ette parties\,\.\.\.\.etc\) in life with us\!
\- For bottle specials\, table reservation and ladies night email \(info@merevents\.com\) OR text 202\-368\-1878
\- Dress Code : Chic\, dressy and elegant
\- Event is 21\+
-Come one, come all; YOU CAN FLY SOLO TOO:) This is the most friendliest event you have ever attended!
\- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be our members
Payment Instructions :
1. Login to see the 'Get Tickets' button, after RSVPing. Then hit the button.
2. Verify correct dollar amount for number of people you're paying for.
3. ***If you don't have a Paypal account, click "Pay with a Debit or Credit Card".***
4. If you have a Paypal account, simply log in, and pay as you normally would via Paypal.
**How to Unblock the Pop-up Blocker on Your Phone**
Many of our patrons advised us that they have a Pop-up Blocker on their iPhones and they hinders them from buying tickets. To unblock, please follow the following steps :
For Safari Users :
1\. Go to Settings\.
2\. Scroll down to Safari and click on it\.
3\. Select Block Pop\-ups and turn it off\.
For Google Chrome Users :
1\. Open Google Chrome\.
2\. Click on the three dots and you will see many options\.
3\. Click on Settings\.
4\. Scroll down to content settings\.
5\. Select Block Pop\-ups and turn it off\.
Refund and Ticket Resell Policy
All sales are final. We only refund the full amount, if the event is canceled. If it is rescheduled, we will send an email to ticket holders advising that. A full refund will be given to those that let us know within 2 calendar days of the update email, if you are unable to make it on the new date. No refunds will be given after that time.
However, you can sell your ticket to someone else if you are unable to attend. Please, feel free to post in the comment box for the event, that you have a ticket for sale. Work out payment between yourselves, and have the seller only send the organizer a message letting us know the full name of the person taking your spot. You must let us know two hours before the RSVP close time, on the day of the event.
PARKING INFO
Parking might be a challenge and the event involves drinking. We highly encourage you to take a ride share or taxi service. DRINK RESPONSIBLY.
**FOR FURTHER INFO REFER THE EVENTBRITE TICKET. IT RULES.**
FunFair (Board Game Night)
**Please Note:** This game has limited slots, and you must RSVP. If the event is full, please signup for the Waitlist, and you will be moved up as people update their RSVPs.
*Can you build the best theme park in town?*
Choose and build an exciting mix of attractions in your very own theme park. Upgrade them to match blueprints, or just to stack up towering rides that pull in the crowds and make the most cash. Hire staff members and build super attractions to maximise your park’s strategy for the win!
BGG - https://boardgamegeek.com/boardgame/315881/funfair
Light Refreshments are provided. We are right on the NOMA Red Line Metro Stop.
Please RSVP so we can account for Snacks.
Festivals Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
"Silver Spring" Contra Dance in Takoma, DC
Please note: this dance is at the Seekers Church in Takoma, DC, across from the metro, rather than at the usual location in Silver Spring.
Register: [https://www.fsgw.org/event-6732985](https://www.fsgw.org/event-6732985?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExTGp2QmpUQURwQ1BvUGV2dHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR7AbQZkfMD6159mhoa-8CQWcO6JYMCvv_Vrs4WXSlm78Z5xA4K-RmCZzRY_Ng_aem_r3VfxnMabtRJObwm3nTUbg)
Caller: Evan DeSmitt
Band: Liz Donaldson & Elke Baker
Calling Terms: Larks and Robins
Lesson at 7:00pm, Dance is from 7:30pm to 10:00pm
Covid Precautions: Masks and vaccinations encouraged but not required
Outdoor music concerts
Springfield Nights
Weekly concert series at Burke lake park
BRING, chair, mosquito repellent & food/drink. There are food trucks too
Obon Summer Festival - Ticket Sales Start May 1
Obon is our annual summer Japanese cultural festival. We get together to eat, dance, and laugh as a community as a way to express our joy and gratitude for our loved ones who have passed on before us.
Come for our [Japanese “Bon” dancing](https://vimeo.com/726547585), Nen Daiko performance, and delicious desserts, vendors, and children’s activities. Stay for the evening memorial ceremony where we fill our beautiful Japanese garden with hundreds of candles that represent the influences that our departed loved ones had on our lives. This moving tribute is a fitting way to end the day spent with friends, families and neighbors.
Guests should note that tickets will only be sold [online](https://ekoji-buddhist-temple.square.site/product/2025-ekoji-obon-festival-admission-tickets/64?cp=true&sa=false&sbp=false&q=false&category_id=2OUGY7WDGU2LLSFJ7T6IQPB6) as attendance is limited by county regulations. Tickets will be sold ONLINE ONLY and go on sale May 1 (for EKOJI members) and May 15 (for the public). For more information, to pre-order tickets, food, or candles, or to sign up to volunteer at the event, please visit [www.ekoji.org](www.ekoji.org).
Peace Day Celebration
The annual Peace Day Celebration brings neighbors, leaders, and community members of all ages together for a party with a purpose! Join us at World of Beer for an afternoon of food, fun, and fellowship supporting the Mattie Stepanek Peace Foundation.
Enjoy live entertainment from Tommy McFly, OCHO de BASTOS, ZamDance, The Blarney Bench, Jimmy Alexander, and more. Activities include music and dancing, cornhole tournaments and open play, games, crafts, and family-friendly fun for all ages.
Amnesty International Northwest DC Local Group Meeting
Since 1961, Amnesty International USA has fought to protect human rights as the world’s largest grassroots human rights organization. Our local group generally meets the second Wednesday of every month at the Cleveland Park Library. Each month, we do letter writing actions, discuss human rights issues in the news, and plan for hosting or participating in occasional events area events. For more information, email Mike Duffy at michaelbernardduffy@gmail.com.
Festivals Events Near You
Connect with your local Festivals community
Bastille Day Festival - A Taste of Paris!
Join us for an upcoming French Food Festival in Downtown Columbus, Ohio.
Admission is FREE!
Make sure to reserve a spot as soon as possible, as tickets are going fast:
[Undercurrent Bastille Day Festival - A Taste of Paris in Downtown Columbus Tickets, Sunday, July 12 • 12 PM - 4 PM | Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/undercurrent-bastille-day-festival-a-taste-of-paris-in-downtown-columbus-tickets-1988784103791)
This Outdoor Festival takes place at 66 North High Street, right next to the New Chouette French Restaurant.
From the Eventbrite Page:
"Transport yourself to the streets of Paris without leaving downtown Columbus! Join us for an authentic French celebration of Bastille Day in a vibrant street festival atmosphere. Experience the true joie de vivre with an afternoon filled with French culture, cuisine, and community."
There will be Live Music, French Food, Art and Artisan Shops to explore!
Parking is widely available in the Downtown Area at parking spaces on High Street and the surrounding area. I usually just park by the Old Fire Station on 4th Street and walk over to High Street. There are usually plenty of spaces available and the cost is only about $3.00 to $5.00.
We will arrive at 1 PM with several hours to explore the festival.
We will meet just inside of the Festival, next to the Chouette Restaurant.
Thanks and hope to see you come out!
Saturday at the Ohio State Fair ☀️ 🎪 🎢 🎡 🎠 🍔 🍟 🥤 🌭 🍕 🍦 🍭 🍺 🇺🇸 😄
**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 will be $13](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours), but through July 26, you can buy them online for $9. You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $24 and $84, respectively.
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! 🥳 🎉 😄
Singles Summer Bash | Edison Beer Garden
Tired of swiping?
Join us in the **Beer Garden at Edision Brewing Company** for a fun Summer bash on the patio **100+ Columbus singles in one space** — all here to connect in real life.
No speed dating.
No pressure.
Just real conversations, good vibes, and new connections.
## [TICKET & REGISTRATION LINKED HERE! ](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/singles-summer-bash-edison-beer-garden-tickets-1991203300674) \*\*\*\*\*
## 💫 What’s Included
* Name tag + guided icebreaker card
* “I’m Interested in You” cards
* Giveaways throughout the night
* Full bar + food available for purchase
Whether you're new to the city, working from home, or just ready to meet new people — this is your crowd.
## 📍 Event Details
**Who:** Singles 21+ (20s–40s)
**Where:** Edison Beer Garden 785 Science Blvd, Gahanna, OH 43230
**When:** July 15th 6:30PM
## You never know who you’ll meet. Join us!
Celebrate French Bastille Day!
*The streets of Columbus are going French this July!*
The **[Chouette Bastille Day Festival](https://www.chouetterestaurant.com/)** returns to N. High Street this summer for an afternoon of live French jazz, traditional French cuisine, and premium cocktails, wines, and craft beers from our DORA bar. Free cover, festive, and entirely French.
**When:** Sunday, July 12th, 12PM to 4 PM - we'll meet about 2pm.
**Parking**: Metropolis Parking garage, one block west. Metropolis Parking lot, one block east.
**Note**: Feel free to come by early and grab a sit down lunch at one of the great restaurants nearby, if you like. Once the fest begins, eats n drinks purchased are walkabout, round tables, or lean in high tops. *You just may find me at a barstool at Hank's ;)*
Dublin Irish Festival!
Make plans to celebrate the Homeland from the Heartland in Dublin, Ohio at the largest 3-day Irish Fest on the planet, #[DublinIrishFest](http://dublinirishfestival.org)! Wear a little green and join our festive bunch!
**MEETUP**: We will form a circle of chairs as our landing spot on the grassy area just outside of the CELTIC ROCK STAGE (look for my Meetup chair in the middle). This area has easy access to food trucks and beer, wine and cocktail trucks. The Celtic Sports area is nearby (Highland Games). Lots of restroom trucks, too.
**COST**: Purchase discount tickets now for only $20 ($30 general admission - age 10+ or $20 Seniors at the gate). Tickets are non-refundable. (I wait and get them at gate)
**PARK & SHUTTLE**: [http://dublinirishfestival.org/parking-shuttles/](http://dublinirishfestival.org/parking-shuttles/)
Metro Center, 555 Metro Place North, Dublin, Ohio 43017
A complimentary shuttle service runs continuously from Metro Place to the Festival. Shuttles begin each day one hour before the festival opens, and continue until one hour after the festival closes.
**MUSIC**: This festival has variety, no matter your taste. I like evenings by the Celtic Rock stage because they have Irish Dancers, folk rock and solid celtic rock each evening. Please feel free to go early and wander to catch all the other cultural venues.
**BRING**: Lawn chair or blanket. No coolers. Bags are inspected by security at Fest entrances. Most vendors accept cash or charge.
**WEAR**: Summer Fest wear - nice t-shirt & shorts, comfy shoes (fest is on 38 acres of grass, trails and sidewalks).
**NEWBIES**: This event is very freeform so I would suggest coming along with a buddy as members will be coming and going from our circle.
News Facts:
•More than 100,000 fans will experience Irish music ranging from traditional to Celtic rock. View the complete [Entertainment Schedule](http://dublinirishfestival.org/venue/celtic-rock/). (this page also has the festival map - we will base from the light green area, SOUTH)
•Watch and learn from seasoned chefs as they serve traditional dishes at the Celtic Cooking Demonstrations.
•Pet some paddy pups in the Celtic Canines Area—a must-see for animal lovers.
•Find handmade arts and crafts at the Emerald Isle and Marketplace. More than 100 vendors offer the most diverse Irish shopping experience in the country.
•Check out the beverage menu, featuring Jameson’s finest and their signature cocktail, Limerick Lemonade. And don’t miss out on a Jameson Whiskey Tasting hosted by their own Master of Whiskey.





























