Art Galleries

**“A creative space to connect with your body.”** ​In the rush of everyday life, it can be easy to forget to slow down and listen to what is happening within. ​Yet this is often where a deeper kind of wisdom can be found. The body is constantly communicating with us - if we give ourselves the space to notice and listen. ​This workshop offers just that: a gentle space to reconnect and explore what your body might be asking for. ​Join us for a creative journey where we will settle the nervous system through sensorial, tactile exercises that bring you into contact with your body. Laura will then guide you through an inner listening process, allowing your own sensations, images, and insights to emerge. ​ Everyone is welcome. You don’t need any previous artistic experience - just a bit of curiosity. **Price: 15 euros per person** **Please book via the following link:** [https://luma.com/a2xonlhd](https://luma.com/a2xonlhd) *Clicking 'attending' on Meetup does not secure you a space!* ​ **What you can expect:** ​- a kind, respectful and non-judgmental atmosphere \- gentle\, guided explorations \- the use of different media such as paint\, ink\, clay\, drawing or collage ​**Practical information:** ​- Workshop duration: 2 hours \- Open to all from 14 \+ \- Language: English but a French translation is possible \- Please wear comfortable\, loose clothing that allows you to move freely and that you don't mind getting paint on \- All materials will be provided \- Please bring something to take your work home in \(a folder\, a plastic sleeve\, etc\.\) ​**About Laura:** ​Laura is a second year art-therapy student. She previously trained and worked as a puppeteer for her theatre company, Théâtre de l'Heure Bleue, and continues to work as a visual artist. She is currently developing an art therapy project using shadow puppetry with patients in palliative care, alongside a somatic-based project for people living with trauma or chronic illness. Her creative process is deeply kinaesthetic, translating felt experience into visual expression. ​For more information: [www.theatredelheurebleue.com](https://www.theatredelheurebleue.com/?utm_source=luma) or find her on Instagram: theatredelheurebleue

Need some quiet time for reading? Want to share the experience with others? Join us at the charming venue of The Sister Café to read in the company of others. It’s alone, but also together, get it? We read for an hour and a half, then chat over a drink. This is a free activity except for the price of the drinks you're consuming.

Small curated movie nights in a hidden garden in Ixelles, next to Place Flagey. A mix of: * **cult classics** * **recent movies** * **international cinema** * **comedy nights** * **karaoke & dubbing chaos nights** * **comfort food and summer vibes** **This is not a giant public Meetup** where 40 strangers stand awkwardly around overpriced drinks pretending networking is fun. Humanity already suffered enough. Our idea is simple: we gather in a private home and transform the courtyard into a small outdoor cinema. Sometimes we cook together before the movie: Italian, Thai, Lebanese, Japanese, Balkan, Greek, Latin American street food etc. Sometimes people simply grab pizza from the excellent pizzeria next door and join the screening. Food is intentionally relaxed: bowls, finger food, street food, popcorn, snacks, comfort food. **Some nights are more gourmet.** Some are glorified pizza-and-movie nights. Both are valid forms of civilization **;-)** ## **What makes this different** The group is i**ntentionally small**: usually 6 to 8 people maximum. **People are introduced properly.** Nobody gets abandoned in a corner. The atmosphere stays human, social and safe. **No heavy drinking.** **No creepy behavior.** No random people showing up uninvited. Smoking is allowed because is outside in the courtyard and occasionally we may have **hookah nights** depending on the movie/theme. ## **Typical evenings** * Wong Kar-wai + Asian comfort food * Spaghetti western + Italian street food * Anime + sushi night * Greek cinema + mezze * Balkan chaos cinema + burek * Cult movie dubbing nights where people voice scenes live karaoke-style Yes, this is a real thing now apparently. ## **Important** Because Meetups and public internet are full of bots, spam accounts and socially radioactive individuals, **we do NOT post the exact address publicly.** To join: scan the QR code on the image and request access to the private WhatsApp group or send me a DM. From there: * we announce movies * vote on menus * organize cooking nights * coordinate places **If you are new in Brussels, introverted, traveling, recently arrived, or simply tired of giant impersonal events, this may be your thing.**

Hi everyone, This coffee morning event is @MIR Concept Coffee Store! Saturday, 6 June 2026, from 10:00 - 13:00. MIR opened its doors 4 years ago, right off Place Jourdan. Doriana, the owner, is a super nice host, and is excited to have our group as her café. The café is very beautiful and has great coffee, and many yummy food options. Their Instagram channel: https://www.instagram.com/mirconceptstore/ **The address is:** MIR Concept Coffee Store Rue Gray 4A 1040 Etterbeek *** 1. The **prime time** of the event is **10:30 - 12:30**. That's when most people will be there. 2. When you enter the gallery, it's either on the right-hand side or left-hand side of its hallway, depending which entrance you take. 3. If you intend **to join past 12:00** (high noon), then there is no need to register. Just come and join! 4. **DON'T forget to cancel** if you can't join! 5. **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** **As always, feel free to follow us on INSTAGRAM!** [https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==](https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==) **THE STRUCTURE of THE EVENT:** * I will post the event on Saturday/Sunday evening for the following Saturday. * I send out a reminder to everyone on Friday. * There is sometimes a waiting list. * In case RSVP is closed (once there are 10-15 people on the waiting list), I might reopen it on Friday, depending on the number of cancellations in the meantime. * **For everyone on the waiting,** please check your status and messages on Friday evening the latest. I message everyone on the waiting list on Friday. * **Please, move to "not going" AS SOON AS you know that you can't come anymore, that includes everyone who is on the waiting list.** **IMPORTANT:** * **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** * When you register yourself, be careful not to register accidentally a +1 guest (unless you bring a guest). It happens very often. * If you have any questions then, message me. *** **A MESSAGE FOR NEWCOMERS:** *In the three years of hosting this coffee group, I have met many people who struggle with anxieties when coming to an event for the first time. Sometimes, it took them more than one attempt before being able to join.* *Occasionally, people reach out to me before the event, and I have always been grateful for that as it offers the opportunity to communicate with each other and to find the best and most gentle way for that person to join the group.* *I would like to encourage everyone who struggles with this to contact me before. It would really be too bad if you can't join us, as it mostly gets better the second or third time you come.* *In addition to that, if you arrive and notice any signs of nervousness or fear, you can always let me know right then.* **THANK YOU AND SEE YOU ALL ON Saturday!**

THIS SATURDAY 06\.06 \| NEW IN TOWN \! BXL MAIN EVENT - XXL OPEN AIR SUMMER PARTY **🌟 Open Air Party 06\.06 at Le Yéti Summer Bar \| indoor & outdoor \| Belges Jeunesses x Coeur a Coeur** +> Facebook : [https://fb.me/e/4uCBqtzum](https://fb.me/e/4uCBqtzum) +>Garanty Pass & skip the line : [https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16217](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16217) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- NEW GREAT XXL SUMMER LOCATION ! +> OUTDOOR & INDOOR (+Large Free Parking) +> JUST A NIGHT goes to Le YETI SUMMER BAR +> Special Back to 80's 90's 00's Music \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- This SATURDAY 06th of JUNE International party (21:00 to 02:00) + Possible extra Hours XXL SUMMER PARY \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Venez revivre les hits des années 80, 90 & 20000 lors de notre soirée spéciale en plein air mais également à l'intérieur de ce magnifique chalet ! Quand? Ce samedi 06 JUIN 2026 au Yéti Summer Bar JOIN US WITH YOUR FRIENDS- DRESS TO IMPRESS- SPREAD THE WORD – EVERYONE IS WELCOME - CLUBHOUSE - GREAT PEOPLE - PRE-PARTY \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Music By Jonathan Loys & Friends \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \* Questions : info@justanight.net BOOKING & ANNIVERSAIRE : +32.478.58.60.39 +> Facebook : [https://fb.me/e/4uCBqtzum](https://fb.me/e/4uCBqtzum) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Le Yéti Summer Bar 11 Drève Olympique, Anderlecht, Belgium

### Slow down, reconnect, and discover one of Wallonia’s hidden green gems. Escape the city for a refreshing Sunday surrounded by nature, heritage, and great company. Join Sunday Vacations for a relaxed day trip to the beautiful **Abbaye de La Ramée** in Jodoigne during the annual **Rendez-vous aux Jardins** weekend. Together, we'll explore a remarkable natural site, wander through the Fruiticum orchard with more than 250 fruit varieties, enjoy guided discoveries, and spend quality time with fellow internationals, expats, and locals. Whether you're looking to meet new people, enjoy the outdoors, or simply take a break from your routine, this experience offers the perfect combination of nature, culture, and connection. People increasingly seek meaningful in-person experiences and outdoor activities that foster genuine social connections. ## 🌿 Experience Overview Nestled in a preserved natural setting, Abbaye de La Ramée offers a unique opportunity to discover a living heritage landscape filled with rare fruit trees, woodland paths, gardens, and peaceful spaces for reflection. During the "Rendez-vous aux Jardins" weekend, visitors can enjoy: - Guided visits of the Fruiticum orchard - Nature and biodiversity animations - Garden and horticultural exhibitions - Food truck and local refreshments - Informal social moments with the Sunday Vacations community ## 🌍 Event Type **🌿 Curated Experience** ## ✨ Highlights ✅ Explore the Fruiticum with 250+ fruit varieties ✅ Guided orchard visit with ASBL POMKO ✅ Meet fellow internationals, expats, and locals ✅ Enjoy a peaceful nature escape outside Brussels ✅ Discover biodiversity and garden design initiatives ✅ Food truck, local drinks, and relaxed community atmosphere ✅ Solo joiners warmly welcome ## 🗓️ Plan & Itinerary ### Saturday 6 June **12:15** Meet at Brussels-Schuman Station **12:52** IC train departure to Ottignies **13:15** Arrival in Ottignies **13:21** Local S8 train to Louvain-la-Neuve **13:28** Arrival in Louvain-la-Neuve **13:46** E1 bus towards Jodoigne **14:08** Arrival at Glimes Route de Glimes **14:08 – 14:31** Walk together to Abbaye de La Ramée **14:30 – 16:30** Explore the site, enjoy the gardens, guided visits, exhibitions, and social time **16:30** Group departure **16:48** E1 bus from Jauchelette Route de Jauchelette **17:16** Arrival Louvain-la-Neuve **17:30** S8 train to Ottignies **17:37** Arrival Ottignies **17:44** IC train to Brussels-Schuman **18:07** Arrival Brussels-Schuman *Participants are welcome to stay longer and return independently if preferred.* ## 📍 Meeting Point **Primary Meeting Point** Brussels-Schuman Station **Meeting Time:** 12:15 **Alternative Meeting Point** L'Abbaye de La Ramée Rue de l'Abbaye 19 1370 Jodoigne Meeting directly at the venue is possible. ## 💰 Price / Contribution ### Sunday Vacations Community Contribution - Explorer Members: €5 - Ambassador/Voyager members : Free Transport tickets are not included. Food, drinks, and any purchases on-site are paid individually. **VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code.** ## 🧭 Membership Become part of the Sunday Vacations community: ### Explorer Starting at €5/year Access to community events and updates. ### Voyager Starting at €50/year Support the growth of curated experiences. ### Ambassador Starting at €150/year Help build a thriving international community. ## 👥 Who This Is For This experience is perfect for: - Nature lovers - Garden enthusiasts - Solo joiners - Newcomers looking to meet people - Anyone seeking a relaxed Sunday outdoors No prior experience required. ## 🎒 What To Bring - Comfortable walking shoes - Water bottle - Weather-appropriate clothing - Light rain jacket if needed - Camera or phone - Transport pass or ticket Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash. ## ⚠️ Important Notes - No access to the interior buildings of the Abbey. - Event takes place primarily outdoors. - Programme may vary depending on weather and site organisers. - Participants remain responsible for their own transport arrangements. - Public transport times may be adjusted closer to the event date. ## ⚖️ Legal Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts solely as a community organiser and facilitator. Transport services, site access, guided visits, food services, exhibitions, and all other third-party services are provided under the responsibility of their respective operators. Participation is voluntary and at your own responsibility. **Activities are organised by volunteers and covered under a legal volunteer insurance framework.** ## 🌱 Ready to Join? Take a break from the city, discover a hidden corner of Wallonia, and spend a Sunday connecting with nature and new people. **Reserve your spot and join us for a beautiful Garden Escape at Abbaye de La Ramée.**

What's up Friends! 👋 

Ready for some bouldering fun? Boulder-what? 🤔 It’s climbing (FR: escalade, le bloc) up to 4.5m high without ropes—and in my case, without much hope! 😂✨ It’s a super fun indoor activity, but be warned: it does require a certain level of physical fitness and/or skill. Most importantly, though, it requires awesome company—which we’ve got! 😎

 The Idea: 📍 Meeting Point: For those arriving at 18:00, we’ll meet at the cafeteria (next to the billiards table). Feel free to start earlier or later—just drop me a message or write in the group chat so we can meet up. 💪 Stay & climb as long as you want - venue closes at midnight! 🥤 Recharge: If you’ve had enough climbing for the day (we usually do this after 2 hours of climbing), we may head back to the cafeteria (or to the rooftop if it's sunny🌤️) for snacks, drinks & games. Cafeteria closes at 22:00. Where: 📍Arkose: (Brussels Canal) Rue Willy de Bruyn Straat 52, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgique 🔗 https://arkose.com/

Fees: 🤑Entry fee without shoes: * 18 eur (first-timers 10€ with online promo activated) * reduced rates: students, minors, job seekers, firefighters, military (proof required) 👟 Shoe Rental: 5€ (if you don’t have your own) 🎫 10-session pass: 135€

 Good to Know: ✍️ First-timers need to create an account (takes 5min) - do it in advance and pay online to pay less and avoid wasting time onsite 💦 Hydration is key! Bring a water bottle. 🔐 Lockers available, but bring your own padlock. 🚿 Changing rooms & showers on-site. 👕 Wear comfy sports clothes—it gets intense! 🧴 Only liquid magnesium is allowed (for grip) - in reality most people use powder🤫 👟 Thinking of going regularly? Bouldering shoes are a great investment! (Decathlon: ~45-65€ per pair.)

⚠️ Safety First! Bouldering is fun, but safety comes first! Stay alert, know your limits, and don’t take unnecessary risks. Enjoy responsibly! 💪 

📢 Further details may be shared via the group chat or via DM 💬. Make sure to check your messages 👀 at least on the day before the event to avoid missing critical 🙄 announcements. 🐈‍⬛ The Friends Code:
👉Respect and positive vibes, if not 💥🥊
👉Can’t make it? Cancel or drop a message in the chat - helps running things smoothly! 👉 Don't show up if you are on the waiting list or show up at your own risk. 

See you at the walls folks😉

**Welcome to The Club.** A **curated** social community in Brussels for people who want real connections, memorable experiences, and **better energy than the usual random meetup chaos**. Most of our events happen in **private homes**, gardens, hidden places around Brussels, or unusual locations outside the city. The goal is simple: create the kind of atmosphere where people actually talk, laugh, connect, and want to come back. We organize things like: • gourmet lunches & dinners • picnics & roadtrips • cooking nights • walks around Brussels • karaoke & movie nights • debates & discussions • card and social games • occasional “chaperoned” social evenings where people can meet naturally in a safe environment The difference is that we personally curate and vet new members. The host actively introduces newcomers, helps people integrate into the group, and keeps the atmosphere respectful and relaxed. We have zero tolerance for creepy behavior, unwanted pressure, spam, random uninvited people, or drama. *Unfortunately, posting too many details publicly on Meetup or on the internet in general quickly attracts bots, scammers, fake profiles, crypto weirdos, and people who completely ruin the vibe for everyone else.* That’s why most of our real coordination happens privately through our ***vetted WhatsApp community***. To join, simply scan the QR code in the image. If you are on your phone and cannot scan it directly: • take a screenshot of the image • open the screenshot in your photo gallery • most phones can automatically detect QR codes from photos by long pressing or using Google Lens / iPhone scan feature Then request access to the group and introduce yourself briefly. See you soon

Looking to meet new people in Brussels and do something creative and fun this Sunday? Join us for a creative & social workshop where you’ll paint your own canvas pouch (you can turn it into a makeup bag, pencil case, or an everyday essentials pouch ✨) You can personalise yours however you like! All materials will be provided so all you need to bring is your imagination 💖 No experience needed, perfect for beginners, craft lovers, or anyone wanting a slow, creative Sunday to unwind 🫶 *** ✨ **What’s included:** * Canvas pouch * Paints, brushes & design supplies * A drink from the café * A warm, social, creative atmosphere 💸 **Fee:** €16 (drink included) 📍 **MIR Concept Coffee Store** 📅 **Sunday, June 7th** 🕰️ **11:30–13:30** 🌼 Beginner-friendly (no experience needed) Sunday Craft Club is all about creativity, connection, and slow, meaningful moments, plus a chance to meet new people while making something fun!

Hi everyone, Let's meet for a classic, social short hike (9 km) from Herrmann-Debroux to the Hippodrome, with a coffee pause at the beautiful Rouge-Cloister. Just bring some snacks, water, and running or hiking shoes—nothing special. **Exit points are available after 5 km at Watermael-Boitsfort, and at the Hippodrome at the end. Many trams and buses can take you back to Herrmann-Debroux or elsewhere.** At the end, we can have a drink at the Hippodrome. I just need to check if the O2 Terrace allows just drinks, or if the bar at the Golf Club is open. It is not a LOOP Register only if you are reasonably motivated to participate. As a matter of courtesy towards the people on the waiting list, if you are unable to come, cancel as soon as possible. [Newsletter](https://meetup.us14.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=a3689edfe6f0e062b4687aecd&id=8ca9255158) [Free donation to cover Meetup Annual Fee](https://www.paypal.com/pool/9nkCD96sSK?sr=wccr) See you soon, Enrico 0456227747 \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***WhatsApp "share live location"*** When participating in our hikes, you should understand how to use the WhatsApp function **"share live location"**. WhatsApp "share live location" is very handy in case you remain behind, arrive late or get lost. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- ***MeetUp privacy settings*** Turn off the privacy settings in MeetUp, for not preventing the organizers from contacting you by direct message. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- If you want to be part of the "Walking in Bruxelles" WhatsApp group just send a WhatsApp or SMS message to 0476 796026 (Vincenzo) with your name and the request to subscribe.

Join my next cardio dance class on Sunday, June 7th, 5-6 pm! Book your class via my website: moveandglow.carrd.co

**🇫🇷 🥂 Yummy & Meet Experience** Parce que nous aimons les belles rencontres autant que les bons produits belges et bruxellois, nous vous emmenons au Championnat Bruxellois de la Boulette Froide ! 10 bouchers et charcutiers s'affrontent lors d'une dégustation à l'aveugle présidée par Carlo de Pascale. Toute les infos aussi sur instagram: [Check it on instagram ](https://www.instagram.com/p/DZFZs08okHm/) 📅 07.06.2026 🎟️ Jury populaire : 20 € ⚠️ 50 places seulement 📍café_les brasseurs : Bd Anspach 77, 1000 Bruxelles **🇳🇱 🥂 Yummy & Meet Experience by Nice People Brussels** Omdat we houden van fijne ontmoetingen én van Belgische en Brusselse streekproducten, trekken we samen naar het Brussels Kampioenschap van de Koude Boulette! 10 Brusselse slagers en charcutiers nemen het tegen elkaar op tijdens een blinde degustatie onder leiding van Carlo de Pascale. 📅 07.06.2026 🎟️ Publieksjury: €20 ⚠️ Slechts 50 plaatsen 📍café_les brasseurs : Bd Anspach 77, 1000 Bruxelles **🇬🇧 🥂 Yummy & Meet Experience by Nice People Brussels** We love great people, great food, and discovering the best Belgian and Brussels specialties. Join us for the Brussels Cold Meatball Championship! 10 local butchers and delicatessen makers compete in a blind tasting chaired by Carlo de Pascale. 📅 07.06.2026 🎟️ Public Jury: €20 ⚠️ Only 50 spots available 📍café_les brasseurs : Bd Anspach 77, 1000 Bruxelles #Brussels #FoodLovers #NicePeopleBrussels #YummyAndMeet

🌟 Hello Yogis and Future Yogis! 🌟 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️ Whether you're a seasoned Yogi or a complete beginner, come and join us every **SUNDAY MORNING - from 11:00 to 12:15 - for Queer Yoga in Brussels :)** No need to worry if you've never tried Yoga before – everyone is welcome! 🌈 Just bring yourself in some comfy clothes (mats are provided) and let the magic happen :-). 🌿 **Class Details:** * This is an "open event" - for everyone, LGBTQ people and their friends no matter their **gender, age, race, sexual orientation or level of fitness / practice**. * Classes take place [Merci Wellness - Place Dillens 1, 1060 Saint-Gilles](https://www.merci-wellness.be/plan-acces.php). Very easy to get there, either by bike or metro (Hotel des Monnaies). * Ring bell "MERCI WELLNESS" - third floor ! * ⏰ 11:00 to 12:15 (doors close at 10:55 as **class starts at 11:00 sharp** \- it is not possible to join late\)\. 💸 **Cost:** * Single class: 15 euros 🧘‍♂️ * 5-class pass: 65 euros (valid for 3 months - a great deal for regular yogis! 🎉) You can pay your class on site either in CASH or through PAYCONIC. **Come and this great group of Sunday Morning Yogis** \- to spend a moment in a nice atmosphere and discover the benefits of Yoga\, from increased flexibility\, better posture\, a stronger body to a calmer mind\. See you on the mat! 🧘‍♀️🧘‍♂️✨ Edson P.S. Also, make sure to check out our new class **"Yoga for Men"** \- every Wednesday at 18:30 in the same location \- you can find the class list on our Meetup main page \!

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

**Get your creative flow going with a Sunday Afternoon Maker Meetup!** Whether you are looking to carve out dedicated creative time, wanting to get a lingering project across the finish line, or just looking to chat with fellow local makers—this is the space for you. 🧵 **What to Bring** Bring any art or craft project you are currently working on, as long as it is portable and quiet. Think: * **Yarn & Thread:** Knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross-stitch, hand-sewing, mending. * **Paper & Sketching:** Sketchbooks, adult coloring books, watercolors, bullet journaling. * **Digital:** Tablets, iPad drawing, laptop writing/design. * *Please note: Because we are meeting in a shared public space, no power tools, sewing machines, or high-odor materials (like strong solvents or spray glues), please!* **📍 Where to Find Us** * We will be meeting at **Columbus Metropolitan Library - Martin Luther King Branch** in **Meeting Room 1**. Room is reserved under **CBUS Maker Meetup.** **⏱️ Timeline** * **1:00 PM:** Arrive, grab a seat, get settled, and do a quick round of introductions so we can see what everyone is working on. * **1:15 PM - 3:00 PM:** Open maker time! Chat, craft, relax, and swap creative ideas. **⚠️ A Note on RSVPs** Space for this first meetup is strictly limited to 10 spots. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" as soon as possible so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot. We ask that you try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel. *** **We can't wait to meet you and see what you're making! All skill levels welcome.**

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

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.

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."

**Join us for an afternoon of community art and craft time!** Whether you are looking to carve out dedicated creative time, wanting to get a lingering project across the finish line, or just looking to chat with fellow local makers—this is the space for you. 🧵 **What to Bring** Bring any art or craft project you are currently working on, as long as it is portable and quiet. Think: * **Yarn & Thread:** Knitting, crochet, embroidery, cross-stitch, hand-sewing, mending. * **Paper & Sketching:** Sketchbooks, adult coloring books, watercolors, bullet journaling. * **Digital:** Tablets, iPad drawing, laptop writing/design. * *Please note: Because we are meeting in a shared public space, no power tools, sewing machines, or high-odor materials (like strong solvents or spray glues), please!* **📍 Where to Find Us** * We will be meeting at **Columbus Metropolitan Library - Hilltop Branch** in **Meeting Room 4**. Room is reserved under **CBUS Maker Meetup.** **⏱️ Timeline** * **1:00 PM:** Arrive, grab a seat, get settled, and do a quick round of introductions so we can see what everyone is working on. * **1:15 PM - 3:00 PM:** Open maker time! Chat, craft, relax, and swap creative ideas. **⚠️ A Note on RSVPs** The RSVP count for this event is strictly limited to 10 spots. If your plans change and you can no longer attend, please update your RSVP to "Not Going" as soon as possible so someone on the waitlist can grab your spot. Please try to give at least 48 hours' notice if you need to cancel, allowing folks on the waitlist time to check their schedule. *** **We can't wait to meet you and see what you're making! All skill levels welcome.**