Field Trips

**Hi everyone!** We’ll now be meeting twice a week at Denizen House (Köpenicker Str. 40, 10179 Berlin), on **Mondays and Wednesdays**! * **Mondays:** levels A1 to B2 * **Wednesdays:** levels B1 to C1 We work with dedicated materials tailored to each level, so everyone will have a place to practice and improve. **Event schedule** * **18:00 – 18:30** Arrival and registration * **18:30 – 19:50** Sprachcafé * **19:50 – 20:00** End and clean up Please be aware that the moderated event starts at **18:30**. Before this time, we are busy setting up the space. Registrations usually take place around **18:15 / 18:20**. Participants are kindly asked **not to arrive too far in advance** at the house. If someone arrives much earlier, Denizen may ask them to pay either for a drink (consumption) or for a **day pass**, as the space is a co-working environment during the day. **Please remember, our event is only happening from 18:00 to 20:00** **How the Sprachcafé works** We use different materials to help participants gain confidence in German. Together with whiteboards and our volunteers, the Sprachcafé is based on **interactive conversations** in small groups. **Participation fee** The Sprachcafé has a **participation fee of 5 €**, which helps cover organizational costs and **includes one soft drink for free**. Tickets can be purchased directly on the day of the event, card and cash payments are accepted. As the Sprachcafé has become very popular, we now need to **limit the number of participants**. Please understand this measure; it ensures that everyone has a comfortable space to practice. We kindly ask you to be **rücksichtsvoll** and only RSVP “Yes” if you are certain you can attend. If your plans change at the last minute, please update your RSVP so someone on the waiting list can take your spot. Getting your ticket early can help secure your place. **Please note** Our event will begin **promptly** at the scheduled start time. If you arrive late, we cannot guarantee your participation, even if you have a ticket or have RSVP’d. We encourage all guests to arrive on time to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. **About Denizen** Denizen is a new-style co-working space focused on being an integral part of local communities. Located on the ground floor of the historic Eiswerk on Köpenicker Straße in Kreuzberg, Denizen House is a communal place providing work, refreshment, and recreational facilities throughout the day. Think of it as a living room for the neighborhood. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to let me know. If you’d like to contribute to this night, send me a message! Ich freue mich schon! Grüße, **Nacho**

Most Mondays are quickly forgotten. This one doesn’t have to be. Join us for a relaxed evening of conversations, new connections and a little escape from routines, screens and the feeling that life only starts on weekends. Sometimes all it takes is one good evening to change the mood of an entire week. ✨ Suggested Ice Breaker Question: “What kind of people are you hoping to meet in Berlin?” Orga The location accepts only card payments. We will be sitting in the first room. Questions? Check our Meetup-FAQs: [https://socialbutterfly.berlin/meetup-faq/](https://socialbutterfly.berlin/meetup-faq/) Meet your host I’m Julia — a Berlin local who loves bringing people together. My path went from growing up in a dance school to studying philosophy to working in IT support, and somehow all of that led me here: hosting meetups and creating spaces where people can show up, relax, and connect. Insta [https://www.instagram.com/juwaberlin/](https://www.instagram.com/juwaberlin/) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-waehnert/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-waehnert/) About The Social Butterfly Club 🦋 is a Berlin-based community that has been bringing people together for over three years. Each gathering is part of a larger framework designed to help friendships grow through shared experiences in the city — with a long-term vision of turning Berlin itself into a shared, playful experience. Love the vibe? There’s a whole community waiting for you. 🦋 Join the Social Butterfly Club and experience Berlin together [https://socialbutterflyradar.substack.com/](https://socialbutterflyradar.substack.com/)

**WICHTIG: Die Anmeldung über Meet-up allein ist nicht ausreichend. Bitte zahle spätestens 1 Tag vor der Veranstaltung im Kultur- und Freizeitbüro des Goethe-Instituts (Neue Schönhauser Straße 20, 10178 Berlin, 2. Hinterhof) in bar, um deine Anmeldung abzuschließen. Wir können leider keine anderen Zahlungsmethoden annehmen.** Comics sind mehr als nur bunte Bilder. Hier trifft Sprache auf Gestaltung! In diesem Workshop schauen wir uns gemeinsam interessante deutsche Comics an, tauschen uns über die Geschichten aus und experimentieren anschließend selbst mit dem Format. Alle Sprachniveaus sind herzlich willkommen, egal ob Anfänger oder Fortgeschrittene!

[*Registration form required below*] **Interested in Japanese sword fighting or Japanese culture? Come join a trial and experience the traditional Samurai art at Katori Shintō-ryū in Schöneberg.** **Trial Fee**: **25€**/ session (2hr). Classes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 19:00 to 21:00. **!!SIGN UP HERE**: [Katori Shinto-ryū Berlin Sign-up (google.com)](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBt4A13VgnEcgQQ2PDaruthmYMRWineG4KtUCKsuC9KBsCUQ/viewform) Registration is required before your participation so that we can prepare enough training equipment. **Address**: Belziger Str. 25, 10823 Berlin. **No previous experience required!** The classes are in English and German. **Our website**: [Kenjutsu Berlin - Official school of Katori Shinto-ryu in Berlin (katoriberlin.org)](https://katoriberlin.org/) **Katori Shintō-ryū** is one of the oldest Japanese sword fighting traditions (koryū) still practised today and is recognized by the Japanese government as a cultural intangeable asset. The school was founded in the middle of the 15th century by Iizasa Chōisai Ienao at the Katori Shrine (Katori jingū) and has become the origin of numerous other martial arts schools over the course of its almost 600-year history. The training consists of the continuous repetition of fixed sequences of movements (kata) and includes the use of classic Japanese weapons such as the sword (iai-jutsu, battō-jutsu, ken-jutsu, ryōtō-jutsu, kodachi-jutsu), the long staff (bō-jutsu), the lance (naginata-jutsu) and the spear (sō-jutsu), as well as unarmed disciplines, tactics and spiritual aspects. **The Katori Berlin dojo** is the only official shibu of Otake Nobutoshi-shihan’s dojo Shinbukan in Germany and fully dedicated to the transmission and study of one martial tradition: Tenshinshō-den Katori Shintō-ryū. Through these efforts we aim to contribute to the cultural preservation of this martial tradition. The dojo has one officially appointed shidosha. **Our sensei**: Sebastian Graetz has been active in martial arts since 1997. After almost 15 years of taekwondo in Berlin, he started with Katori Shintō-ryū in Asia in 2014. Since then, he has studied in Japan with Ōtake Risuke-shihan and Ōtake Nobutoshi-shihan, and in Vietnam with Malte Stokhof-shihandai. In 2023, he received his Menkyo license and permission to set up a training group in Berlin the following year.

**📢 Wichtiges Update für unser Sprachcafé in Manifesto!** 📢 2. Etage wo es geschlossen ist Es ist für jeden **zwingend**, **ein Getränk bei der Soot Bar** (unten bei den WCs) **oder Essen** zu kaufen, damit wir dort bleiben dürfen. Danke fürs Mitmachen! 😊

Andere drücken die Schulbank, wir aber wollen in gemütlicher (und realer) Atmosphäre wieder aufeinandertreffen und einen Deutsch-Spanisch-Tandemkurs aufleben lassen. Beim einfachen Zusammenkommen und kennenlernen lässt es sich schließlich viel effektiver lernen. und Spaß haben. ...

**Would you like to practice your German and do some theatre at the same time?** Join us for our **Spielend Deutsch lernen** workshop starting this September! Our workshops are conducted in German and are designed for non-native speakers. No prior theatre experience is necessary, but a basic knowledge of German (A2 level) is required to participate. We encourage regular attendance to build a cohesive team and work towards a group performance at the end of the six-month workshop. ### Workshop Details: * **Start Date:** 15th septembre 2025 ( * **End Date:** 29th June 2026 * **Schedule:** Every Monday from 7 pm to 9 pm (except on bank holidays and Easter holidays) * **Location:** Theater Spiel Raum, Bethanien Kreuzberg ### Cost: The workshop is run by our German-speaking theater teacher **Irina Usova**. She also directly handles the logistics and communication with the participants. Our courses are paid per period: September–December, January–March, and April–June. **Full price** : for 1 years 697 € **Reduced price :** Applies to students, low-income individuals, and job seekers – proof required: 574 € **Inscription during the year** : Price recalculated according to the number of remaining sessions **Please note that the number of participants is limited to 15, so be sure to sign up early!** We look forward to welcoming you to our workshop. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at : **info@coursetjardins.com** Please register on this formular if you are interested : https://widgets.yolawo.de/w/0/bookables/6888d9fff8185e5091aabd22 Don't forget to look at our Website : coursetjardins.org in the section theater workshop. Looking forward meeting you all :)

Bist du bereit für einen Abend voller Geheimnisse, Täuschung und spannender Diskussionen? Am Mittwoch treffen wir uns zu einem neuen Mafia–Werwolf-Spielabend. Finde heraus, wer im Dorf die Wahrheit sagt – und wer heimlich zur Mafia oder zu den Werwölfen gehört. Ein Blick. Ein Verdacht. Eine Abstimmung. Und plötzlich ist jemand… raus. ⏰ Beginn: 18:00 Uhr 📍 Ort: Café Chagall 💰 Spende ab 5 € Egal ob Anfänger oder erfahrener Spieler – alle sind willkommen. Bring gerne Freunde mit und tauche ein in eine Nacht voller Intrigen, Strategie und Spaß. ‼️ Wichtiger Hinweis: Wir spielen die ursprüngliche Version von Werwolf/Mafia

Wir treffen uns jeden Dienstag ab 16 Uhr in der Gothaer Str. 5 in 12629 Berlin im Nachbarschaftstreff Sophia. Das Angebot richtet sich sowohl an Neulinge als auch an Experten. Die ersten 15 die sich anmelden sind dabei...

***Experience Kenya’s beauty — Big Five safaris, flamingo lakes, walking with giraffes & unforgettable moments across iconic savannas.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/savanna-safari-kenya-5n](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/savanna-safari-kenya-5n) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **🌍 WHY GO?** This is not just a safari. This is **Africa in its most raw and beautiful form**. From the golden plains of the **Masai Mara** to the shimmering flamingo lakes of **Lake Nakuru**, and the peaceful wildlife encounters at **Lake Naivasha**, this journey immerses you in the heart of Kenya’s most iconic ecosystems. Across **6 unforgettable days**, you’ll track the **Big Five**, cruise past hippos on tranquil lakes, walk among wild giraffes on Crescent Island, and experience authentic Maasai culture. Expect vast landscapes, dramatic sunsets, incredible wildlife encounters, and moments that feel straight out of a **National Geographic documentary**. ✨ **6 days. 3 iconic parks. Endless unforgettable moments.** **🌟WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS?** 🦁 **Masai Mara Safari** Track the legendary **Big Five** across vast savannas teeming with wildlife. 🎈 **Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari** Float above the Mara at sunrise followed by a champagne bush breakfast. 🌍 **Masai Village Cultural Experience** Meet Maasai warriors, witness the famous **Adumu jumping dance**, and learn about traditional life. 🦩 **Lake Nakuru National Park** Famous for its **rhino sanctuary, flamingo-lined shores, and acacia forests**. 🚤 **Lake Naivasha Boat Safari** Cruise alongside hippos and watch African fish eagles dive for prey. 🦒 **Crescent Island Walking Safari** Walk freely among **giraffes, zebras, and antelopes** in one of Africa’s most unique wildlife experiences. 🌄 **Great Rift Valley Views** Witness one of the world’s most dramatic geological landscapes. 📸 **Iconic Wildlife Photography Moments** Capture unforgettable safari scenes across Kenya’s most stunning landscapes. 🗓 **TRIP DETAILS** **Start and End Date:** Sunday, 24 May 2026 - Friday, 29 May 2026. **Meeting Location:** Meet your guide and the other participants in Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. **Finishing Location:** Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. **Note**: You can arrive anytime on the trip start date & leave anytime on trip end date, please however, let us know in the sheet that will be shared with you closer to the event date, so that we can accordingly make the relevant pickup & drop off arrangements from our end. **What is Included?** * Guide for the entire duration (Guide speaks English). **Note:** English is the main language spoken in this trip. * 5 nights accommodation in selected lodges/hotels * Private transportation for the entire trip. * Private **Safari mini-van for transportation during the safaris**. * Full board meals during the safari. * All national park entry fees. * Guided game drives across all parks. * 1-hour **Lake Naivasha boat ride**. * Airport transfers. * Daily bottled water. * Access to a WhatsApp group and Google photos album, dedicated to the trip. * **Note:** Email us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **How to get to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?** **Flight:** Flying is the easiest and most convenient way to reach Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, with direct and connecting flights available from most major European cities (Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris, London, etc.). **From Europe:** • Direct flights: \~8–9 hours • One-stop connections also widely available via major hubs **Arrival in Nairobi:** Once you land at **NBO Airport**, our team will arrange your **airport pickup and transfer** to the hotel. **Need Assistance:** Please reach out directly for **customized flight-inclusive offers** from anywhere in Europe ✈️ 📲 WhatsApp / SMS: +49 152 2150 6123 +49 151 2486 7229 **🏡 ACCOMMODATION** 🏨 **Day 1 – Nairobi** Stay at **The Concord Hotel (or similar)** – comfortable city stay before the safari begins. 🦁 **Days 2–3 – Masai Mara** Stay at **Mara Simba Lodge (or similar)** – immersed in wildlife-rich savanna landscapes. 🦩 **Day 4 – Lake Nakuru** Stay at **Safari Lodge near Lake Nakuru National Park** – close to rhino habitats and flamingo lakes. 🌊 **Day 5 – Lake Naivasha** Stay at **Lakeside Lodge near Lake Naivasha** – peaceful stay surrounded by nature. **🌄 THE EXPERIENCE FLOW** **Day 1 – Arrival in Nairobi ✈️** * **Location:** Nairobi Welcome to Kenya! * Upon arrival at **Jomo Kenyatta International Airport**, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. * Relax after your journey and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Nairobi — known as the **“Green City in the Sun.”** **Day 2 – Into the Wild: Great Rift Valley & Masai Mara 🦁** * Drive through the spectacular **Great Rift Valley**, stopping at scenic viewpoints along the way. * Arrive at **Masai Mara National Reserve** for lunch before heading out on your **first thrilling game drive**. * Look out for lions, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, and many more incredible animals roaming freely across the savanna. **Day 3 – Masai Mara Discovery 🌅** * A full day exploring one of the **most famous wildlife reserves on Earth**. * **Optional Experience:** 🎈 **Hot Air Balloon Safari** Drift silently above the savanna at sunrise and enjoy a **champagne bush breakfast** after landing. * **Cultural Experience:** 🌍 **Masai Village Visit** * Visit an authentic **Maasai Manyatta** village. * Learn about traditional Maasai life, watch the famous **warrior jumping dance**, and discover their fascinating customs and crafts. **Day 4 – Lake Nakuru Rhino Sanctuary 🦩** * Drive to **Lake Nakuru National Park**, one of Kenya’s most famous wildlife reserves. * Known for its **rhino sanctuary and flamingo-lined shores**, the park is also home to Rothschild’s giraffes, buffalo, and many bird species. * Enjoy an **afternoon game drive** through the acacia forests surrounding the lake. **Day 5 – Lake Naivasha & Crescent Island 🦒** * Travel to the freshwater **Lake Naivasha**. * 🚤 **Boat Safari** Cruise across the lake among hippos and watch fish eagles hunting from above. * 🦒 **Crescent Island Walking Safari** Walk freely among giraffes, zebras, and antelopes — one of the few places in Africa where you can safely walk alongside wildlife. **Day 6 – Farewell Kenya ✈️** * Enjoy a relaxed breakfast by the lake before driving back to **Nairobi**. * Stop for a **farewell lunch** before transferring to **Jomo Kenyatta International Airport** for your return flight. **🌱 TRAVEL WITH PURPOSE** By joining this safari, you directly support **wildlife conservation and local communities across Kenya.** **✨ FINAL THOUGHT** Kenya is not just a destination. It is a place where **nature still rules the land**. Sunrises over the savanna. Wild elephants crossing dusty plains. Flamingos painting lakes pink. **The Emerald Savanna Safari is more than a trip — it’s a story you’ll tell for the rest of your life.** **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

Sehr gerne Familien mit Kindern! Achtung ab sofort nur noch bis 27 Jahre!!!(Ausnahme Familien mit Kindern). Wir spielen jeden letzten Sonntag im go Brett- und Kartenspiele. Es sind viele Spiele da und es können auch Spiele mitgebracht werden. Jeder ist willkommen. Pro Spieler müssen ein Euro Raumnutzungsgebühr gezahlt werden.

***Experience Kenya’s wild beauty—Big Five safaris, Kilimanjaro views, flamingo lakes & unforgettable moments across 4 iconic parks.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/kenya-7n-may2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/kenya-7n-may2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **🌍 WHY THIS JOURNEY IS TRULY ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME?** This is not just a safari. This is Africa — raw, untamed, and unforgettable. From the golden plains of the **Masai Mara** to the shadow of **Mount Kilimanjaro**, this journey takes you deep into the heart of Kenya’s most iconic landscapes. You’ll track the **Big Five**, walk among wild giraffes, cruise past hippos at sunset, and witness nature in its most powerful form — all while staying in carefully selected lodges immersed in the wild. ✨ **8 days. 4 iconic parks. Endless unforgettable moments.** **🌟WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS?** **🦁 Masai Mara Safari (2 Days)** Track the legendary **Big Five** across vast savannas 🎈 **Optional Hot Air Balloon Safari** Float above wildlife at sunrise — a once-in-a-lifetime view 🌍 **Masai Village Experience** Step into local culture, traditions & tribal life 🦩 **Lake Nakuru National Park** Rhinos, flamingos & acacia forests 🚤 **Lake Naivasha Boat Safari** Spot hippos & fish eagles from the water 🦒 **Crescent Island Walk** Walk freely among giraffes, zebras & antelopes 🐘 **Amboseli National Park (2 Days)** Massive elephant herds with **Mount Kilimanjaro backdrop** 📸 **Iconic Wildlife Photography Moments** Capture “National Geographic” style shots 🗓 **TRIP DETAILS** **Start and End Date:** Sunday, 24 May 2026 - Sunday, 31 May 2026 **Meeting Location:** Meet your guide and the other participants in Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. **Finishing Location:** Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. **Note**: You can arrive anytime on the trip start date & leave anytime on trip end date, please however, let us know in the sheet that will be shared with you closer to the event date, so that we can accordingly make the relevant pickup & drop off arrangements from our end. **What is Included?** * Guide for the entire duration (Guide speaks English). **Note:** English is the main language spoken in this trip. * 7 nights accommodation for this trip (twin-share rooms) that **includes 2 Nights accommodation in Masaimara, 2 Nights in Amboseli National Park and 1 Night each in Lake Nakuru National park, Lake Naivasha National Park** & Nairobi. * Private transportation for the entire trip. * Private **Safari mini-van for transportation during the safaris**. * 6 days full board meals during safari. * Park entry fees included. * Guided game drives across all parks. * 1-hour **Lake Naivasha boat ride**. * Airport transfers. * Daily bottled water. * Access to a WhatsApp group and Google photos album, dedicated to the trip. * **Note:** Email us immediately if you do not have WhatsApp and we can make alternate arrangements from our end to ensure you do not miss out on any communication. **How to get to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport?** **Flight:** Flying is the easiest and most convenient way to reach Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, with direct and connecting flights available from most major European cities (Frankfurt, Amsterdam, Paris, London, etc.). **From Europe:** • Direct flights: \~8–9 hours • One-stop connections also widely available via major hubs **Arrival in Nairobi:** Once you land at NBO Airport, our team will arrange your **airport pickup and transfer** to the hotel. **Need Assistance:** Please reach out directly for **customized flight-inclusive offers** from anywhere in Europe ✈️ 📲 WhatsApp / SMS: +49 152 2150 6123 +49 151 2486 7229 **🏡 ACCOMMODATION** 🏨 **Day 1 – Nairobi:** Stay at **The Concord Hotel** (or similar) – Comfortable city stay to relax before the safari 🦁 **Days 2–3 – Masai Mara:** Safari Lodge (Full Board) – Immersed in wildlife-rich plains 🦩 **Day 4 – Lake Nakuru:** Safari Lodge (Full Board) – Close to rhino sanctuary & flamingo lake 🌊 **Day 5 – Lake Naivasha:** Lakeside Lodge (Full Board) – Peaceful stay near freshwater lake 🐘 **Days 6–7 – Amboseli:** Safari Lodge (Full Board) – Stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro **🌄 THE EXPERIENCE FLOW** **Day 1: Arrival in Nairobi ✈️** Welcome to Kenya! Relax, recharge & prepare for your safari adventure **Day 2–3: Masai Mara Magic 🦁** Drive through the Great Rift Valley into Kenya’s most famous reserve • Game drives tracking the **Big Five** • Optional **Balloon Safari** 🎈 • Visit a traditional **Masai village** **Day 4: Lake Nakuru 🦩** • Rhino sanctuary • Flamingo-lined shores • Scenic acacia landscapes **Day 5: Lake Naivasha 🌊** • Boat ride with hippos & birdlife 🚤 • Walk among wildlife on **Crescent Island** **Day 6–7: Amboseli 🐘** • Giant elephant herds • Views of **Mount Kilimanjaro** • Classic African safari photography moments **Day 8: Departure ✈️** Return to Nairobi & transfer to airport **🎒 OPTIONAL EXPERIENCE** 🎈 **Hot Air Balloon Safari (Masai Mara)** – $500 per person A breathtaking sunrise experience over the savanna **🌱 TRAVEL WITH PURPOSE** By joining this trip, you contribute to **nature conservation efforts** in the region 🌍 **✨ FINAL THOUGHT** This is the Africa you’ve always dreamed of. Wildlife roaming free. Sunsets that stop time. Moments that stay with you forever. 🌍 **The Grand Kenya Wildlife Odyssey is not just a trip — it’s a story you’ll tell for life.** **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp / Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

Im Jungfernheideweg 77, 13629 Berlin treffen wir uns zwischen 16.30 Uhr und 22.30 Uhr wieder um gemeinsam Brett- und Gesellschaftsspiele zu daddeln. Das Angebot richtet sich an alle Interessierten. Kinder bitte erst ab 12 Jahre. Eine Vielzahl toller Brettspiele sind vor Ort, es können aber auch gerne eigene mitgebracht werden. PS: Es wäre sehr hilfreich wenn die Leute, die sich anmelden und dann doch nicht können, sich auch wieder abmelden vorher. danke schön

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Join us for a relaxed and enjoyable brunch at 17 Arrows Kitchen and Bar! This is a great opportunity to meet new people, enjoy good food, and ease into the weekend with great conversation. Whether you’re new to the group or it’s your first event, you’ll feel right at home.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*

Join Bold Spirit Travel for an all-women’s journey through the [heart of Provence. ](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026) From charming villages and bustling markets, to lavender fields and coastal cliffs, this adventure blends history, art, food, and stunning landscapes. Your base is a boutique hotel in Aix-en-Provence, the perfect hub for exploring southern France. *\*We can only take 10 women on this trip.* **Highlights** * **Aix-en-Provence** – stroll cobbled streets, browse colorful markets, and enjoy lively cafés. * **Marseilles** – tour its historic basilica and meet traditional soap makers. * **Arles & Wine Tasting** – explore Roman ruins and sip wines at Mas Valériole estate. * **Lavender Fields** – capture the beauty of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque. * **Cassis & the Calanques** – enjoy seaside scenery and an optional boat ride. * **St. Rémy** – wander the vibrant market and visit Van Gogh’s former monastery. * **Les Baux-de-Provence** – experience the dazzling immersive light show. * **Cabrières-d’Avignon** – discover lavender’s artistry at the Lavender Museum. **What's Included:** * 6 nights in a boutique hotel (shared occupancy; private upgrades available). * Expert Bold Spirit tour leader plus bilingual local guides. * Meals as listed in the itinerary. * Private ground transportation. * Pre-trip support: Zoom call, WhatsApp group, and packing guidance. **Why Travel With Us?** This Provence adventure is designed for women who love travel, culture, and connection. You’ll share meals, explore iconic sites, and enjoy the slower pleasures of the French countryside—with expert guidance and community every step of the way. **Pricing:** * **Trip Cost:** USD 5,885 * **Deposit:** USD 700 non-refundable (secures hotels and guides) Get in touch with us to set up a call and learn [more](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/journeys-1/south-of-france-provence-2026). Contact:[ https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact](https://www.boldspirittravel.com/contact)

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."