Freeride

Meet in the parking lot of the Handy Bikes Service Center. At the start of each ride, we'll go over introductions to have a sense of participants' cycling experience. Over the course of our rides, we'll address the following: group riding dynamics; safety (ABC check & trail hazards); gear shifting; hill climbing; audible and hand communication within the group, with other trail users, and automobile drivers; what to bring on each ride; etc... Bring your questions, water & a snack. When it starts getting dark earlier, we'll need lights as well. Helmets a MUST. If you can, and especially if you've had issues with your bike, come a bit early to have it looked at ahead of the ride. PS - all levels are welcome to join, however, be mindful that if you are an experienced rider, please be prepared to ride at the pace of the newest rider in the group. Each week, depending on who's in attendance, and participants' riding ability/comfort level, we may do skills practice as a group in the parking lot or at the west end of Wheeler Ave. Once everyone is comfortable, we'll go for a ride on local trails and neighborhood streets and finish back at the shop. Happy Pedaling !! \~Maya

Venez apprécier l'ambiance chaleureuse d'une conversation en français autour d'un verre de vin et d'apéritifs. C'est ouvert à tous quelque soit votre niveau, que vous soyez intermédiaire/avancé ou bien que le Français soit votre langue maternelle. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU WILL BE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. 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. It is irresistible, to enjoy French convo with a glass of wine, appetizers and drinks. The Event is open to all levels of French language, from intermediate to native fluency. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers. It is not as such to learn a language. Beginners, if you want to learn a language, reach out to us ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class. ***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

Bring your lights for the “Friday Night” Skate! **Join us for the Friday Night Skate!** See the monuments of DC all lit up at night! We will meet at the National World War I Memorial “Pershing Park” at 7pm. We’ll warm up with a nice easy skate to the Capital and skate along the mall and museums to the National Monument. We will then head to the Lincoln Memorial through the World War II Memorial. Those interested in just a 5.5 mile skate can backtrack to Pershing Park. The group will then proceed from the Lincoln to Haynes Point via Ohio Drive with the option to take the 3 mile loop (12 mile total skate) or sit by the water and enjoy the crisp air (8.5 mile total skate.) There are three options to loop back to the Pershing Park WWI Memorial and our path back will depend on the preferences / skill of the group. The skate is mostly flat on good pavement with a small slope coming down from the Washington Monument and a 40 yard small slop from the Lincoln to Ohio Drive. If skaters are more advanced we will cross the 14th St bridge, enjoy a few up and down hills and finish with a downhill through the 12th St. tunnel. Please feel free to jazz it up with lights, I wear a helmet bike light, a fun set of lights and lighted wheels! Wear your lights so you have fun, can see and be seen! In case of bad weather, I will cancel the skate by 6pm on this post. **Of course, all skating is at your own risk.**

It is irresistible, to enjoy a Spanish and Portuguese convo with appetizers, glass of wine and rail drinks. ***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. 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 try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well. 3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face language exchange 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](http://info@merevents.com)). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages. 11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\. 12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\. 13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\. ***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***

The Craft Cocktails Club kicks off its Rooftop Summer at the Summit Rooftop at the Conrad. Join us for delectable craft cocktails and a splendid city view. https://conradwashingtondc.com/dine/rooftop/?SEO_id=GMB--R-WASCICI-2&y_source=1_MjY1ODk0NTMtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D

Join a relaxed and welcoming French conversation group on Capitol Hill. These informal gatherings are open to all levels, from beginners to fluent speakers, with the goal of practicing French in a supportive, low-pressure environment. We aim to speak French as much as possible, but it’s completely okay to slip into English when needed. Whether you’re looking to build confidence, maintain your skills, or connect with others who love the language, this is a friendly space to learn and converse together.

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with **"I Accept"** to be permitted on the hike. **5.6 mile loop with a 685 ft. elevation gain that makes the hike the equivalent to a bit over 7 miles. (400ft gain = 1 mile)** **\*\* This hike is limited to 20 participants per park no permit regulations.**\*\* **Description:** **[Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)**[ ](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/index.htm)is truly a **gem** in our **nation's capital**. This **1,754 acre city park** was officially authorized in **1890**, making it the **third national park**. It offers visitors the opportunity to escape the bustle of the city and find a peaceful refuge, recreation, fresh air, majestic trees, wild animals. Military Road divides the park into North and South. This hike starts from the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (closed Mon/Tues) and heads **east** and then **south** following the **creek** to the **[Valley Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)**, the **[Rock Creek Trail](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)** and finally to the **[Western Ridge Trail](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** through **[Pierce Mill](https://www.nps.gov/places/peirce-mill.htm)** and then back to the **[Nature Center](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)**. This month we will do the hike in the reverse order. **Pace**: pace is about **2.-2.7 mph** while moving. **Bring:** adequate water/hydration, also snack/lunch, insect repellant and sturdy hiking shoes since there are rocky areas, tree roots. **Dogs:** Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).** **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/4977d84136752e007d09245dc605351849a561f839bb8c7d002ae55470e11441).** **Meetup Location:** we will meet in the parking lot of the **[Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/nature-center-and-planetarium.htm)** (Closed Monday and Tuesdays) at 5200 Glover Rd NW, Washington, DC 20015 GPS Coordinates : **38°57'34.1"N 77°03'05.6"W.** **[LINK](https://maps.app.goo.gl/TyjHWMHpevqTW1Fr8?g_st=im)** **Please arrive by 9:45 am to get signed in in time to start the hike at 10 am.** **Rock Creek Park** **[Map of Hike](https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington-dc/western-ridge-trail-rock-creek-valley-trail)** **[Hiking in Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/hiking.htm)** **[Map of Rock Creek Park](https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/maps.htm)** **Questions:** feel free to text/call me, Dawn, at 703 533 9231

Join us for an hour of relaxing Yoga which. Cost: Free Level: Beginners What we will be doing: 1. This will be an hour long beginners flow yoga class. You are welcome to join if you are experienced or absolute beginner, just being interested is enough. Yoga is for everyone! 2. Through this meetup we will learn some yoga poses, breathing techniques, stretch our body, build strength. More importantly, we will try to learn about our body and find inner peace. Please: 1. don't get too full before practice but you can always bring snacks. 2. Please be on time, class will start on time. 3. Wear comfy clothes. 4. Bring your own mat or towel, water and YOURSELF. 5. UnRSVP if you can't make it. Disclaimer: Please consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program, including yoga. Yoga involves physical movement and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to listen to your body and modify poses as needed to accommodate your individual needs and abilities. By participating in this yoga class, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own safety and well-being, and agree to release the instructor from any liability for injuries or damages that may occur during or after the class

**Hey Everyone!** Due to the uncertain weather forecast for Sunday, May 24th, I am **............ POSTPONING our FREE HUGS GATHERING to ...............** **..................................... SUNDAY, MAY 31st!! .......................................** **I hope to see you then!** **LOTS OF FREE HUGS,** **Jeff** \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **YES! YES!! YES!!!** **FREE HUGS on the National Mall are happening again!!** **"Spreading More Love"** Here are two videos of past FREE HUGS gatherings: [FREE HUGS October 2017. 32 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jh7v3zucDas) [FREE HUGS Veterans Day 2016. 58 sec.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ebTt9Q177zQ) **HEY EVERYONE!** Now that the Flu, COVID and RSV have subsided, we are **RESUMING OUR MONTHLY FREE HUGS GATHERINGS!!** FREE HUGS gatherings generate so much excitement, joy, appreciation, connection, peace, love, smiles, “Thank you’s,” lots of laughter and such positive energy!! Our FREE HUGS movement is all about "Spreading More Love" regardless of political, religious, racial or gender identification or any other identification. **!! IMPORTANT !!** We meet OUTSIDE of the National Museum of Natural History on the NATIONAL MALL SIDE OF THE MUSEUM near the Refreshment stand. ADDRESS: 1306 Madison Dr. NW · Washington, DC **PARKING:** On the street parking OR [Nearest Parking](https://washingtondc.bestparking.com/destinations/national-mall-parking) **METRO:** Smithsonian National Mall Metro Station (NOT Independence Ave.) **We hope you will join us for an AWESOME time!** **Lots of Hugs...jeff** 301-885-8259 (c) \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Note 1: if you agree to participate in any FREE HUGS Event, you agree to the following terms: By choosing to attend this event, you are acknowledging the risks involved (COVID, etc.), and you are committing to participate nonviolently and in accordance with the law. You agree: (i) not to engage in any act of violence or violation of any applicable law (ii) to obey the orders of authorized event marshals and law enforcement authorities (iii) that any Meetup group will not be responsible to any injury or damage to your person or property resulting from or occurring in the course of your participating in the Event; and iv) to release and forever hold harmless Jeff Maurer, Meetup group and their respective employees and volunteers from liability for any such injury or damage. Note 2: FREE HUGS gatherings are 1. NOT for advertising our businesses; 2. NOT about promoting political or religious or racial or gender issues or any other issues.

Weekly Saturday group ride, starting at Handy Bikes Retail Showroom. Come ride with locals in the area! This group ride is for average folks who want to go for an average ride. It's not quite a coffee ride, but it's definitely not a race! Routes will vary around the area, with an average speed around 14 mph (minimum of \~10 MPH) for around 15-30 miles. We'll be on pavement so bikes with smooth tires are encouraged, **helmets are mandatory**. Open to any riders who are willing and able to ride with a group including Class 1, 2, and 3 e-bikes. No speed demons please! Good group ride etiquette is a requirement. Shop opens at 10:00 am Show up and sign in by 10:15 am Roll out 10:30 am Please RSVP in advance, so that the ride leaders can prepare for the group's size. [Handy Bikes on Strava](https://www.strava.com/clubs/737920/leaderboard) [Handy Bikes on RideWithGPS](https://ridewithgps.com/organizations/14675-handy-bikes)

[https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114](https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114) 28 miles. Picnic break at Wolf Trap around 13.2 miles into the ride. We have toilets halfway along the trail and near the beginning of the trail. NEW: E-biking to Wolf Trap (+/- 27.4 miles). Download the trail here: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42682114 PLEASE NOTE: We start from Lindway Terrace Park. It sounds so far away, but it is within e-biking range. Join us as we embark on a fantastic 28-mile e-bike ride to Wolf Trap National Park in Virginia and return via the W&OD trail. Be ready to e-bike through spectacular landscapes on rustic roads in McLean and Great Falls' upscale neighborhoods. We do not e-bike on gravel roads, but be aware of the hills. Charge your batteries. Wolf Trap National Park is a unique and beautiful destination in Northern Virginia's heart. It is the only national park dedicated to the performing arts, offering visitors various cultural and entertainment experiences. The park covers over 100 acres of lush woods and rolling hills, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors to the park can enjoy various outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park also features several trails that wind through the woods, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing place to spend the day, Wolf Trap National Park is the perfect destination. The park's highlight is the Filene Center, a beautiful outdoor theater that offers a unique and intimate performance experience. From classical music to rock concerts, the Filene Center has something to offer for everyone. Visitors can also take a backstage tour and learn about the history and workings of the theater. Wolf Trap National Park is a must-visit e-biking destination for anyone looking to escape the city and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and the arts. With its picturesque surroundings, diverse activities, and world-class performances, it's easy to see why Wolf Trap is a beloved destination for visitors of all ages. Did you know that E-bike Lovers is an Amazon Affiliate? [https://ebikelovers.com/reviews](https://ebikelovers.com/reviews) FYI: Ride With GPS E-bike Lovers club membership is now free as [www.ebikelovers.com](http://www.ebikelovers.com/) is generating sufficient income from ads to cover the costs. Here is the link to activate your free membership: [https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN](https://ridewithgps.com/auto_approve/Club/6746/Zwa5jhttF5mJrFbN) The group stops a few times for slower riders to catch up. For the E-bike Lovers group to be successful, we need to grow our membership carefully. Please feel free to invite other E-bike lovers, spread the word, and let's have fun. As usual, non-assisted bikers are most welcome. DISCLAIMER LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMISSIBLE PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE LAW, NEITHER GREGORY MAASSEN, NATHAN MERRIS, TRIP COORDINATORS, THEIR AFFILIATES, FAMILY AND FORMER AND CURRENT EMPLOYERS NOR ANY OTHER PARTY INVOLVED IN CREATING, PRODUCING, OR DELIVERING E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS IS LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, INDIRECT, EXEMPLARY, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF A USER’S ACCESS TO, OR USE OF THE E-BIKE LOVERS GUIDES, OUR MEETUP EVENTS, AND THE GPS E-TRAILS. See for the full disclaimer: https://ebikelovers.com/disclaimer

As a reminder, since Freedom Plaza is under construction, we will meet at the plaza in front of The International Trade Center near the National Children's Museum (on Pennsylvania Ave). We'll begin with going over a few drills (varies week to week). The skills we drill will be for the first 30 minutes. For the second half, we will casually skate down the bike lanes on Pennsylvania Avenue from the plaza to the U.S.Capitol and stop at 3rd St. and then skate back the same route. This route is about 2 miles in total and is perfect for those who are new to skating in the city but feel comfortable on skates in a parking lot or roller rink. This is also great if you wish to start with shorter routes to increase your physical fitness or stamina for some of the other routes. This is an excellent opportunity to prepare to skate with others on the road. You will also get to meet skaters who will arrive for the Intermediate and Advanced skate routes following the introductory skate. This is great training to feel prepared for the Tuesday Night and Friday Night Skate! Route: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7653831 Inline skates (rollerblades), roller skates (quads), bicycles, unicycles, skateboards, longboards and other similar modes of transportation are welcome to join. Helmet, wrist guards, elbow pads, and knee pads are required. Skate at your own risk. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the session.

☀️ **Sunday Morning Roll: Bethesda, The Tunnel & The Capital Crescent Trail!** ☀️ Ready for one of the absolute best routes in the DMV? This Sunday, we are hitting a community favorite: the Capital Crescent Trail! Whether you want to challenge yourself with a solid distance or you're just looking for a casual, scenic cruise, this route has you covered. According to the forecast for Washington, DC, it's looking like a beautiful day for a skate—partly sunny with a high of 77°F, 0% chance of daytime rain, and a light northwest wind at 4 mph. Here is the game plan: ### ⏰ The Schedule * **Meetup:** 10:00 AM @ Pershing Park * **Rollout:** 10:10 AM sharp! ### 🗺️ The Route & Mileage * **Full Distance:** \~20.32 miles (for the crew heading all the way to Bethesda and back). * **Route Map:** [https://onthegomap.com/s/qg4q4cqo](https://www.google.com/search?q=https://onthegomap.com/s/qg4q4cqo) * **Choose Your Own Adventure:** Want a shorter skate? No problem! You can turn around at any point on the trail, hang out at the tunnel, or head back early to the waterfront. ### 🔄 How It Works * **The Warmup:** We’ll launch from Pershing Park, cruise around the White House, cut through the George Washington University campus, and pass the Kennedy Center. * **The Gateway:** We'll drop down to the Georgetown Waterfront. * **The Trail:** From Georgetown, we hit the beautiful Capital Crescent Trail. Go as far as you like! * **The Dalecarlia Tunnel Split (7 Miles In):** At the 7-mile mark, we will reach the famous, historic Dalecarlia Tunnel. We have two options here for the front runners and mid-pack: * **Option A (The Tunnel Chill):** If you want to check out the tunnel and take a breather, this is your spot! There is a great rest point here with plenty of benches in the shade to cool off, grab some water, and socialize. The full-distance crew will meet you back here in about **35 to 40 minutes** after they loop through Bethesda, and we'll all roll back down the trail together. * **Option B (The Bethesda Extension):** The front runners will keep rolling past the tunnel for another 3 miles up to the turnaround point in Bethesda, then skate 3 miles back to regroup at the tunnel. * **The Catch-Up:** If you want an even shorter skate or prefer to skip the tunnel wait, simply turn around early and head back to the fountains at the Georgetown Waterfront to chill. Your skate leader, Ian, will point out exactly where this is on the way out. * **The Finish:** Once the full-distance and tunnel crews loop back down, we’ll regroup with the early turnaround folks at the fountains and all roll back to Pershing Park together. ### 🎒 What to Bring * **Protective Gear:** Helmets are highly recommended, plus wrist guards and pads. * **Hydration & Snacks:** It's a 20-mile trek if you do the whole thing—bring plenty of water! * **Good Vibes:** Let's make it a great Sunday morning roll. Drop a comment below if you’re in, and we’ll see you at Pershing Park at 10:00 AM! 🛼💨 #WeAreSkateDC For up to the minute details, check Facebook and Instagram. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WashingtonAreaRoadskaters/events Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareskatedc/ We hope to see you Sunday!

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming. Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.

Westerville Pride Festival Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information! Location and other info will be announced soon :)

**Weather permitting**, we’ll take a casual ride from Pickerington Ponds (Glacier Knoll) to Three Creeks and back. Distance is **18–25 miles**, depending on where we turn around and whether we add a side loop. Pace is around **12 mph**, but this is a fun, no‑drop ride — we can slow down as needed. Here’s the **map** showing Glacier Knoll (bike), Confluence Park (flag), and BrewDog: [https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..](https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit..). Text or call Scott at **614‑975‑4458** if you’re coming. Columbus ski club membership not required for this event. CSC assumes no responsibility for the event or any injuries as this is organized by a third party.

Bienvenue! We host a twice-a-month French conversation club at La Chatelaine on Lane. All levels welcome! Whether you're new to French or running for Président de la République you are welcome here! We often read plays together, play vocabulary games, and generally enjoy the delicious food available at La Chatelaine! We will be at the long table in the back of the restaurant. A bientôt!