Geek Culture

We will be hosting board game night at Face to face games, see location below. I will be bring a number of games from my collection and anyone is welcome to bring any game they would like to play as well, we normally decide at the event what to play and will split into to groups. normally there is a heavy game going and a couple lighter ones. I'm usually there early around 4:30PM, but we don't usually start anything large until 6pm. If your coming a bit later no worries there are plenty of shorter games running as well. We will get you playing. So come on out and lets play some games!!!!! You'll find us at the back of the store at the Large table Last row on the right just before the bathrooms. If you can't find us please ask the staff they will be able to direct you. Join the [GeezUnited discord Server!!!!](https://discord.gg/JVMbMZTmRg) if you have any questions or looking to organize games outside of the meetup this is a great place to do so.

The silence is broken. **We are officially relaunching DEF CON Toronto (DC416) on Jan 15.** We’re kicking off this new era at 6:30 PM at 100 Queens Quay St. It’s free for everyone, but capacity is limited. RSVP to lock in your spot. To find upcoming events, updates and stay involved as we grow, visit our revamped site [https://defcontoronto.ca](https://defcontoronto.ca/) **Talk:** Syndicate: Inside the life of a Ransomware Operator **What you’ll learn:** A deep dive into how ransomware affiliates rise through the ranks, build trust, and operate inside the dark web ecosystem. **Speaker:** Tammy Harper (Senior Threat Intelligence Researcher @ Flare) **About the Speaker:** Tammy Harper is a Senior Threat Intelligence Researcher at Flare, specializing in dark web ecosystems, ransomware affiliate operations, and adversary psychology. Her work combines technical analysis with narrative and sociological approaches to understand how modern cybercriminals think, organize, and operate.

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $15 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

## 🧠🎉 Trivia Night @ The Frog: A Firkin Pub 🍻 **Think fast, laugh hard, and make new friends!** We’ll be meeting at **The Frog: A Firkin Pub**, conveniently located just steps from **Yonge–Sheppard Station** — cozy - great food and fun! ### 🕖 About the Event Trivia starts at **7:00 PM** and runs until around **9:30 P**M— just **ask for Colleen’s group** when you arrive! Expect a lively mix of **pop culture, history, music, sports, and random fun question.** Whether you come solo or bring a friend, we’ll make sure everyone’s part of a team. 🧩💬 ### 💸 Cost & Policy Everyone must spend at least **$10 (plus tax & tip)** at the pub. **NEW POLICY:** * 🆕 *First-timers* must send a **$5 deposit** by e-transfer to **tommills@rogers.com** and message Colleen right away on this page or the sign-up page. * 💌 There will be a **$1 reminder charge** if you don’t send the deposit promptly, for each reminder. * 👥 You may bring **1 guest**, but please e-transfer **$10** in advance. You’ll be refunded once your guest arrives. ### 🧠 Why You’ll Love It Trivia night isn’t just about questions — it’s about **connection, laughter, and teamwork**. Come test your wits, cheer on your tablemates, and enjoy the buzz of a pub full of friendly faces. Whether you’re a trivia pro or just in it for the fun, it’s always a great time! 📱 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) ### ⚠️ Notes * Please don’t just “show up” without RSVPing — seating is limited, and teams need to be balanced. * Occasionally, the organizer may need to rearrange teams if one is *too stacked* (e.g., all the sports or music experts together!). * Sometimes things happen — events can be canceled or adjusted, so keep an eye out for updates. 📩 **Questions?** Contact **Colleen**, your organizer, by posting on the event page.

\*These classes are not a language exchange, but instead are meant to be a step in between so that students feel confident maintaining in depth and grammatically correct oral conversations outside of class\* \***Meetup event numbers only tend to show new students registering and do not include returning students attending class.** **Per class, there is an average of 7 students.** The first 2 classes are free and then only cost between $15 and $35 depending on which type of class you want to continue with\* These French, English (For Spanish and French speakers only), and Spanish classes are primarily meant for adults who are travellers, or who are planning to live in a French, English, or Spanish-speaking country. The classes are primarily oral-based through guided conversations. They will teach you how to handle conversations in situations such as **"Going to the Convenience Store"**, **"Making Plans"**, **"Negotiating Prices"**, and **"Going out for a Drink"**. To ensure that students get used to using the language automatically, students will learn to maintain contextual conversations with timing before moving on to the next lesson. Call (647)787-9953, e-mail us info@monkeylingo.ca, or visit monkeylingo.ca for more information! **Online and private classes are also available!** No other language classes are as conversational as these ones. We guarantee it! Cheap parking can be found using the "Spot Hero" app.

🎬 **Free Movie Meetup — Thursday, January 15 @ Palmerston Library Theatre** 🍿✨ Start 2026 on a high note with great company and a beautiful film! Join us for a **free screening of *Belfast*** at the **Palmerston Library Theatre** — a fully accessible venue perfect for relaxing with other movie lovers. It’s a fun, easygoing way to spend your Thursday evening, meet new people, and enjoy a powerful story on the big screen! 📍 **Location:** *Palmerston Library Theatre* (fully accessible) 🕔 **Meet Up:** **5:45 PM by the library doors** — look for **Nick** holding the **Meetup sign**! 🎥 **Movie Starts:** **6:00 PM** 👉 **Please respect your RSVP**, but if you’re unsure of your schedule, you’re always welcome to just **show up** and join the fun! 📅 **Event Page:** [https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/detail.jsp?Entt=RDMEVT586045&R=EVT586045](https://www.torontopubliclibrary.ca/detail.jsp?Entt=RDMEVT586045&R=EVT586045) *** ### 🎞️ *Belfast* — Movie Info *Belfast* is a poignant, semi-autobiographical drama written and directed by **Kenneth Branagh**. The film follows a young boy named **Buddy** and his working-class family during a pivotal moment in **late 1960s Northern Ireland**, capturing the love, laughter, and challenges they experience amid social and political unrest. ([Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belfast_%28film%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Belfast (film) - Wikipedia")) 🕒 **Runtime:** **Approximately 97 minutes** — just over 1.5 hours of heartfelt storytelling. ([Wikipedia](https://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E8%B4%9D%E5%B0%94%E6%B3%95%E6%96%AF%E7%89%B9_%28%E7%94%B5%E5%BD%B1%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com "贝尔法斯特 (电影)")) ✨ This critically acclaimed film blends tender family moments with historic context, creating a beautiful and moving cinematic journey that stays with you long after the credits roll. ([Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belfast_%28film%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Belfast (film) - Wikipedia")) 👉 Watch the official trailer here: **🎥 *[Belfast ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JBvCyte2qU)*[Official Trailer on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JBvCyte2qU)** ([YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-JBvCyte2qU&utm_source=chatgpt.com "BELFAST | Official Trailer - Only In Theatres November 12")) *** ### 🎭 About Palmerston Library Theatre The **Palmerston Library Theatre** is a welcoming community space within the Toronto Public Library — fully accessible and designed for community events, talks, and — of course — great film screenings. It’s a cozy, inclusive spot to enjoy movies with fellow film fans, right in the heart of the neighborhood. *** 🌟 **Come for the movie, stay for the vibes!** Whether you’re serious about cinema or just looking for a fun, free way to hang out and meet people, this meetup is a perfect Thursday night plan. See you there! 🎉📽️

**January 15, 2026. 6:30 PM. Your social life gets an upgrade.** New year. New people. New way to spend your Thursday nights. You'll be matched with 5 other curious strangers for a surprise group experience. The activity? Secret until Wednesday 10 AM. **What to expect:** · 🎲 **Curated Group:** 6 people matched on vibe & interests — not random. · 📍 **Surprise Location:** Revealed 24h before. · 💬 **Real Conversations:** No "So, what do you do?" small talk. **Past Revelia experiences:** Escape rooms, pottery workshops, speakeasies, secret dining, axe throwing, rooftop bars... **HOW TO JOIN:** 1. Take the 2-min matching quiz here: **[https://www.revelia.ca](https://www.revelia.ca/)** 2. **Wednesday Jan 14, 10 AM:** Get the reveal (Location + First names of your group). 3. **Thursday Jan 15, 6:30 PM:** Show up and enjoy. **Cost:** $13 booking fee (covers matching + organization). Activity paid on-site based on your budget. ⚠️ **Only 18 spots.** Booking closes Tuesday Jan 13, 11:59 PM. *Not vibing? Leave anytime, and we'll full refund you* 👉 **Book your spot:** **[https://www.revelia.ca](https://www.revelia.ca/)**

Join us for a fun and interactive Language & Culture Exchange Mixer in Toronto! Whether you want to practice a new language, make new friends, or learn about different cultures, this event is perfect for you. Meet like-minded individuals who are passionate about languages and cultural exchange in a relaxed and social setting. Engage in conversations, language exchange activities, and cultural presentations while enjoying some snacks and drinks. Let's broaden our horizons together and build a diverse and welcoming community right here in Toronto!

This is an opportunity to meet up for some LGBTQ2IA-flavoured gaming and socializing—allies also welcome. Come for the gaming, socializing, and the drinks! :) Be sure to invite friends and such, too. We’ll be in the larger area towards the back. You'll have access to a robust library of board games, and attendees are welcome to bring their own games. There is no event fee. Instead we ask attendees to purchase beverages from the venue, Penny's Bar, conveniently located beside Lansdowne subway station at 1306 Bloor St. West. Of course, since they are offering us their space for free, please consider buying a drink if you can--possibly from our \*custom menu\*! We provide nametag stickers with a pronoun field; we want this to be a comfortable environment for everyone, kindly respect people's listed or stated pronouns. If you are unsure of someone's pronouns, don't assume: Ask, Respect and Practice Definitely ask before taking pictures/videos Alas Penny's is not accessible due to stairs, dim lighting, and loud noises. While external food is welcome, outside beverages are not permitted. \*\*\*Please reach out to [info@torontogaymers.ca](mailto:info@torontogaymers.ca) with any accessibility concerns. [https://linktr.ee/TorontoGaymers](https://linktr.ee/TorontoGaymers) #TorontoGaymers #PennysDiveBar [#Boardgames](https://keep.google.com/#label/boardgames)

Note: THEMED: Everyday Life (VOCAB AT THE BOTTOM) \*\*\* No arrivals after 9:30 (please and thank you) Join us for a friendly, welcoming language exchange meetup where we focus on real conversation, cultural connection, and improving together. 📍 Where: Toronto Reference Library (attached to Balzac’s Coffee), 1st floor where all the long tables are! 📅 When: Saturday January 17th 9:10 am to 11:10 am 📍 Address: 789 Yonge St, Toronto, ✨ What to Expect: • Casual rotating partners conversations • Light discussion prompts or themes to guide chats • A mix of English and Mandarin (you’ll find someone at your level!) • Encouraged corrections and language support in a kind, respectful way • Great coffee + cozy atmosphere! 🧑‍🏫 All levels are welcome: Whether you’re fluent, just starting, or somewhere in between — you’ll find partners and a pace that fits. We aim to keep things fun, low-pressure, and engaging. ### ## **🏠 Daily life** * **日常生活**｜日常生活｜*rìcháng shēnghuó* — daily life * **习惯**｜習慣｜*xíguàn* — habit * **作息**｜作息｜*zuòxí* — daily schedule * **生活方式**｜生活方式｜*shēnghuó fāngshì* — lifestyle ## **☕ Food & routine** * **早餐 / 午餐 / 晚餐**｜早餐 / 午餐 / 晚餐｜*zǎocān / wǔcān / wǎncān* * **在家做饭**｜在家做飯｜*zài jiā zuò fàn* — cook at home * **外食 / 外卖**｜外食 / 外賣｜*wàishí / wàimài* — eat out / takeout * **清淡**｜清淡｜*qīngdàn* — light / bland * **重口味**｜重口味｜*zhòng kǒuwèi* — strong flavors ## **Changing or adding ideas** * \*\*另外…\*\*｜另外｜*lìngwài* — besides that * \*\*而且…\*\*｜而且｜*érqiě* — and also * \*\*不过…\*\*｜不過｜*búguò* — but / however * * **Soft opinions (polite!)** * \*\*对我来说…\*\*｜*duì wǒ lái shuō…* — for me * \*\*我个人觉得…\*\*｜*wǒ gèrén juéde…* — personally, I think ## **🧠 Giving reasons** * \*\*因为…所以…\*\*｜因為…所以…｜*yīnwèi… suǒyǐ…* — because… so… * \*\*主要是因为…\*\*｜主要是因為｜*zhǔyào shì yīnwèi…* — mainly because

Note: You may be removed from the attendance list if you've participated in the previous week's event. This allows for more people to experience this Meetup. Avengers put your costumes on and let’s go and save the world!
Well we can’t save the world (yet), but we aim to try to play a small part in the lives of those experiencing homelessness by making their day a bit better!
Description: Before the event the organizer will post a list in the comment section of the attendees and what they are responsible to bring (food/drink, kitchen supplies, cleaning supplies). We normally ask each attending member to bring approximately $15-20 worth of ingredients/supplies to our event. We will use the items to prepare and serve food/drink at The Meeting Place.
Timeline: We will meet on location at 11:00 am, with lunch served between 12:30-1:00 pm.
Membership Dues: Membership dues are $2.00 for the calendar year. Membership dues go towards paying for food/supplies incurred by no-shows. Membership dues are due at the first meetup of the year that you attend.
No Shows/Late Un-RSVP: We’re relying on members who RSVP to bring key ingredients for recipes! Please try your best to show-up or alternatively change your RSVP early so another member may fill the empty spot.
\*\*\* If you are on the waitlist, keep checking as you may be moved into attendance to replace someone. We will try to message you to confirm your attendance in advance.
Donations will be assigned before the event.

Join us for a fun and interactive Language Exchange & Social Networking Mixer hosted by the Toronto Language and Culture Exchange group. Practice speaking different languages, meet new friends, and learn about diverse cultures in a relaxed and casual setting. Whether you're a beginner or fluent speaker, this event is open to language enthusiasts of all levels. Come prepared to engage in conversation, share experiences, and broaden your understanding of languages and cultures from around the world. This is a great opportunity to network, make connections, and expand your cultural horizons while having a great time. Don't miss out on this exciting event that combines language learning with socializing!

Join us for our in-person Saturday critique session! We'll be meeting in the basement of **The Blake House**, which is located near Wellesley and Jarvis, about a 10-minute walk from Wellesley Station or Sherbourne Station. **In respect to the Blake House for hosting us, we humbly request that attendees purchase a meal, dessert, or drink if you are able to do so.** Feel free to bring in a piece of writing up to **2000 words** for reading and critique. Please bring paper copies so that listeners can easily follow and make notes. Dedicated listeners are equally welcome. In larger groups, please be mindful of giving everyone a fair chance to speak. Our group values and meeting structure can be found here: [https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines](https://www.torontosffwriters.com/sff-writer-rules-and-guidelines) We ask that writers provide content warnings when necessary. To limit the spread of diseases, we kindly ask that you stay home if you're feeling sick. We will be here every week! **\*\*We support the hard work and effort that goes into writing fiction, and do not condone the use of AI to replace the creative process.\*\*** And, that's everything! See you there!

🚨👉 To RSVP for this event, head to our [Luma event page](https://luma.com/mbafwfgu). RSVPs are intentionally closed on Meetup.👈🚨 https://luma.com/mbafwfgu Join us for a welcoming and inclusive coffee meetup where women and non-binary folks in tech can connect, share experiences, and build community in a relaxed setting. **January Topic:** TBD Whether you're an industry veteran or just getting started, everyone is welcome! **FREE ENTRY** – However, please support the café by purchasing a drink or snack while attending. **Location:** Prema Coffee and Bar, 35 McCaul St #110, Toronto, ON M5T 1V7 **Time:** 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM **Schedule:** 11:00 AM – 11:30 AM → Arrive, grab a drink/snack, socialize 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM → Group discussion, paired chats & activities **Important Notes for RSVPs** We’re introducing a few questions when you RSVP to help us manage space and ensure an inclusive environment: **This is a space created to support people who are underrepresented in tech.** We ask **cisgender men** (men who were assigned male at birth and identify as male) to respect this and not attend. **To manage limited space, we track no-shows for all Code Diversity events.** If you RSVP and miss two events, you’ll be waitlisted for future events. Please update your RSVP at least 24 hours in advance if you can’t attend. **Photography & Video Disclaimer:** By attending this event, you acknowledge and agree that photographs and/or video recordings may be taken. These may be used for promotional purposes, including social media, websites, and other marketing materials. If you do not wish to be photographed or recorded, please inform the event organizer upon arrival. **Organized by TechTank** Let’s continue fostering diversity, inclusion, and innovation in tech—this month and beyond! **Join our vibrant community for the latest updates and continued discussions:** [https://linktr.ee/techtankto](https://linktr.ee/techtankto)

❄️ **Spare Yourself a Boring Winter - Bowl With Us!** Avoid social hibernation this winter, join our **6-week social bowling league** starting in January! Whether you're looking to unwind after work, meet new people, or just have a fun night out with pals, this league is perfect for everyone! Chill times, cold drinks, and plenty of chances to connect with others. No matter your skill level, this league is all about having fun and meeting new friends. **;)** **🗓 Thursday evenings \|📍 AMF Sawmill Lanes \| 💵 $74 w/ code MUCOW26** **💻 League Info & Registration**: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling **Why Join?** 🎉 It’s only 6 weeks - perfect for a low-commitment social plan 🍻 Great mix of people in their 20s-40s, plus post-game hangs at the bar 🎳 Zero pressure - gutter balls totally welcome! 👕 Free league shirt if you sign up early 🧠 Weekly trivia w/ prizes 💬 Super social - join solo or w/ friends! **Want in?** Join our Meetup team Gutterfingers 👉 **Click here to join** https://tinyurl.com/2b6s2c9j Or start a team of your own with a few friends - we’ll all be hanging out either way! 📅 League Dates (Thursday evenings): Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19, Feb 26 ***(The MeetUp event date is deadline to register for the league.)*** **Cost & What’s Included:** ✔ $74 with discount code MUCOW26 ✔ 6 weeks of bowling (1–3 games/week) ✔ Shoe rentals & full league setup ✔ Trivia, prizes, and great people 👉 **SIGN UP NOW** 💻League Info & Registration: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling 🤑Use promo code MUCOW26 to save $20 📸 Follow the fun on Instagram: https://bit.ly/BowlingLeague-IG 📩 Questions? Contact the league: http://bit.ly/2nKHno7 Spots are filling fast – don’t miss out on the fun times!

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. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

This cutting edge rom-com translates the familiar "love triangle" to the 2025 luxury driven NYC culture. Can our successful matchmaker find true love herself? Watch it and cast your opinion at the group discussion,