Karaoke

Buckle up and get your rave shoes on it’s time to get ready to lose yourself to the music and shake the building down. **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-group-meetup-dp)** What’s a better way for girls to relax with friends than to enjoy the fun time you need with an enjoyable evening. **The Ultimate Nightlife Experience** Ladies, bring your inner sass with friends and free drinks and a variety of special offers throughout the night in this glamorous ladies night. **[Guestlist Only - Register Here](https://jo.my/dine-party-meetup-event)** The dance floor will come alive with the lively beats to guarantee a non-stop party atmosphere, delivering an exhilarating ladies' night like no other. **Here’s the offer - Guestlist required:** * 💃 **Ladies**: Free entry & Unlimitd free drinks till 1 AM. * 🕺 **Gents**: AED 100 / 2 drinks. **Extra add-ons:** AED 99 for 2 course set menu. Sip, dance, and sparkle! Wrap up your weekend in style and happy moments to gossip about the whole week. **[Guestlist Only - Register Here](https://jo.my/dine-party-meetup-event)** Get your girls together, glam up & join this exciting night! You will be entertained throughout the night by our fabulous DJ whilst playing the best tunes in this well-decorated spot! Get ready to ignite your senses and dance the night away at the most electrifying nightlife party in this premier glamorous nightclub. **🎶 Dual DJ Delight** Dance the night away to the beats of not one, but two sensational DJs who will spin a mesmerizing mix of tracks that span genres and eras. Join this exciting night! You will be entertained throughout the night by our fabulous DJ whilst playing the best tunes in this well-decorated spot! *Let's raise the bar together and make this a night to remember!* **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Complete your registration HERE](https://jo.my/dine-party-meetup-event) **Door policy:** * Guestlist entry till 11:30 PM. * Door policy applies after. *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* 📍 **Get location map and parking instructions** [Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-group-meetup-dp) Happy Partying 😊

الكتاب يتوفر مطبوعا والكترونيا (يرجى متابعة الرابط للتفاصيل) اقترح الكتاب ويدير الحوار وليد بازرجي “أدركنا منذ زمن طويل أنه لم يعُد بالإمكان قلبُ هذا العالم، ولا تغييره إلى الأفضل، ولا إيقاف جريانه البائس إلى الأمام. لم يكن ثمة سوى مقاومة وحيدة ممكنة: ألّا نأخذه على محمل الجد”. كأنما أراد كونديرا أن يلخِّص بهذه العبارة كلّ أعماله، إذ إن “حفلة التفاهة” هذه، آخر رواية له، هي تتويج لكلِّ كتاباته. ليس هنالك ما هو جدّي، لا ستالين صياد الحجل، ولا الخادم الذي اختلق لغة باكستانية مبسَّطة، ولا من يهوى السرَّة، ولا المؤلف، ولا أقواله… كل شيء يتخذ صورة العبث اللانهائي الذي بثّه كونديرا في معظم كتاباته. ماذا يتبقى من حياة أي إنسان؟ إنها هذه التفاهة بالضبط، وهي التي تتيح لنا أن نشعر بأننا أقلّ أهمية، وأكثر حرية، وأكثر التصاقاً بالأدب من العالم المحيط بنا. هذا الكتاب القيِّم والمُبهِج والمسلّي سيمتِّع على الأخص أولئك الذين سبق لهم أن ولجوا عالم كونديرا الرائع. إنه كتاب يمزج في آنٍ معاً التاريخ والفلسفة والهزل، هذا الثلاثي الرائع، ليروي قصة يلتقي فيها ستالين مع رجال عظماء آخرين من قرون منصرمة يتعايشون في “حفلة التفاهة” هذه بطريقة طريفة ومتفرّدة. ماذا يسعنا أن نقول أيضاً؟ لا شيء. اقرؤوا! حفلة التفاهة - ميلان كونديرا المركز الثقافي العربي 2014 (111 صفحة) https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23490687 كيف أحصل على الكتاب؟ مكتبة غاف التواصل عن طريق الموبايل او الواتس اب +971527798773 سعيد (متجر لتوصيل الكتب داخل الإمارات) التواصل عن طريق الموبايل او الواتس اب +971508386699 تطبيق أبجد على الآيفون والآندرويد https://www.abjjad.com/ Kinokuniya https://uae.kinokuniya.com/ مؤسسة هنداوي https://www.hindawi.org Storytel https://www.storytel.com نيل وفرات المتجر الاكتروني للكتب https://www.neelwafurat.com/ وراقون المتجر الاكتروني للكتب https://wrraqoon.com/ Google Play الكتب على متجر https://play.google.com/store/books Amazon الكتب على متجر https://www.amazon.ae/ Virgin الكتب على متجر https://www.virginmegastore.ae/ Iqraa shelves on goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/group/show/44694 Iqraa on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iqraaarabicdubai/ Iqraa on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/ArabicBookClubDubai

your midweek Latin fix 🤩 - Every Tuesday starting at 10PM and ending at 3AM Let’s dance the night away to the charming tunes of Latin & Afro music while enjoying a drink or a bite with friends and peers in the outstanding venue - Twenty Rooftop Bar at Movenpick Grand Plaza, Dubai. Take advantage of the special offers on food & drinks Organized by MOOVnation

📍 **Venue:** Al Manara Sports Hall, near Onpassive Metro Station *(pick up and drop off available from Onpassive Metro Station) [(Google Maps)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/s3f3BmtB6s3SN4na6).* We play badminton here every Tuesday, 8-10 PM. Join our [Join the Al Qouz/Jumeirah Whatsapp Group Here](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KREbzal9A4899L5OzYYsOP) **👋 First time joining?** [Click here to WhatsApp Sarfaraz (+971551899547)](https://wa.me/971551899547?text=Hey%20Sarfaraz!%20This%20is%20my%20first%20time%20joining%20Badminton%20For%20All%2C%20Dubai.) and confirm your slot. **📝 Key Info** This is a group open for players of all levels, nationalities, genders and races. *Cost per session: 40 AED* *Duration: Each session lasts 2 hours* *Equipment: We use feather shuttlecocks; please bring your own racket* *Slots: Booked on a first-come, first-served basis* *Play: Players will be rotated around multiple courts and will get games similar to their level of play* **Late Backout & No-Show Policy** **We strictly enforce our late backout and no-show rules to ensure smooth operations.** Organising replacements on short notice is difficult and disruptive, especially as our organisers have day jobs. Please be mindful of our policy: * **RSVP Policy:** Please RSVP for sessions exclusively through the Meetup app. WhatsApp is mainly for regular updates on attendance, timings and last-minute changes. Any requests made via WhatsApp might not be considered for session sign-ups. * **Late Backouts:** Backing out within 9 hours of the session is considered a late backout. You will be required to pay the session fee in full, even if a replacement is found. * **No-Shows:** If you fail to show up without notice, you must still pay for the session. * **Respect for the Organisers:** Our organisers finalise the list the night before or early morning. Last-minute changes mean they need to leave their work to arrange replacements. This affects not just the organisers but the overall experience of the players. * **Waitlist Responsibility:** If you're on the waitlist and no longer wish to attend, it’s your responsibility to remove your name. We assume that anyone on the waitlist still wants to join the session if a spot opens up. * **First-Come, First-Serve Basis:** We ensure fairness by adhering to a first-come, first-serve system. Please do not ask for special treatment or last-minute slots outside of this. **Note: Players may cancel without penalty up to 9 hours before the session. After this time, the session fee applies regardless of waitlist status. Please book and cancel responsibly to avoid disruptions for everyone involved.**

**[What is it dancing per se?](https://dubaidance.com/dances/salsa)**[ ](https://dubaidance.com/dances/salsa) Why have so many people been into dancing over the decades? The answer is quite obvious, especially for the ones who have been valuable members of [Dance For You community](https://dubaidance.com/about-us/our-students) for a while now. *Every single one of us is different*, an individual with their own outlook on life where dancing is an outstanding way of self-expression…through movements, through music, through step combinations, through a variety of DANCING! **Dance For You team is happy to make people happy.** That’s why we are delighted to launch a brand new type of our usual group classes – [“Enchanted Salsa”. ](https://dubaidance.com/dances/salsa) **Salsa** is an unforgettable way of communication where smooth and rhythmic movements say much more about your personality than words. **Come and learn with us**, a professional team of dancers. We have already been sharing the Standard and Latin-American skills with our dearest students. And now it’s high time for SALSA! Even if you’ve never danced before…it’s never too late to start or…at least give it a try! **Believe us, once you’ve tried it you WILL love it.** * **[LA Salsa](https://dubaidance.com/dances/salsa)** * **[BACHATA](https://dubaidance.com/dances/bachata-dance-lessons)** * **[Cuban Salsa](https://dubaidance.com/dances/salsa)** The whole variety of styles, the whole variety of step combinations, the whole variety of music, the whole variety of emotions… all this you will find at our fantastic **[GROUP DANCE SESSIONS:](https://dubaidance.com/dances/dance-levels)** * every TUESDAY t 08:15 p.m. - 09:00pm * every THURSDAY at 08:15 p.m. - 09:00pm **We are waiting for YOU!** Something tells us you can not help but jump into the dancing now! That’s why be the one of us having fun at the [ENCHANTED SALSA!](https://dubaidance.com/dances/salsa) **Please note,** the first trial group dance session will cost [only 100AED](https://pay.nomodapp.com/l/ad2bc95ad25d4b98 ), which is less than your cost of lunch. For any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact our studio on: WhatsApp/Phone: [+97145520153](https://api.whatsapp.com/send/?phone=97145520153&text=Hey+Guys+I+wish+to+learn+dancing+with+you+at+Dance+For+You&app_absent=0) [Instagram](https://instagram.com/danceforyouindubai/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/danceforyouindubai/) [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/user/danceforyouindubai) [Quick Info](https://taplink.cc/danceforyouindubai)

We'll play two board games - a word game and an interesting psychology game. The names of the games are a secret! Please note that the entry fee is AED 30. Note: Treat yourself—food and drinks are 20% off for all event guests!

**[Learn to dance…your LIFE will change!](https://dubaidance.com)** Nervous about dancing in public? [Private lessons](https://dubaidance.com/dances/classes-for-adults) take the edge off and allow you to really let loose and see what you’re made of! *Private dance lessons are the quickest, most effective way* to improve your dancing. We personalize each lesson based on your individual needs, desires, and goals, adjusting our teaching style to your ability, personality, and expectations. You’ll discover the difference some one-on-one attention can make in your dancing! This ensures the most thorough and rapid learning process, all while keeping it fun, easy, and comfortable. **[Congratulations on your upcoming wedding](https://dubaidance.com/dances/wedding-dance)** and congratulations on wanting to make the most out of your first wedding dance! Ok, you have your wedding prepared: the wedding dress, hairstyle, flowers and even the cake and unique invitation cards are ready! What’s next? It’s the wedding dance – a key part of any wedding. *For Wedding Couples, our special wedding program provides* hours of unforgettable moments of fun, enjoyable practice, stress relief, brilliant music, incredible moves and much more will be learnt and perfected to make the dream of your [Wedding Dance](https://dubaidance.com/dances/wedding-dance)[ ]((https://dubaidance.com/wedding-dance-classes/)) come true! **Turn your wedding dance into your favorite ‘Strictly’ routine at Dance For You!** **Please note,** you will have a full 45min individual dance session with our professional dance coach, who will customized an individual dance program based on your dancing needs and it will cost **[only 100AED](https://pay.nomodapp.com/l/3af86dbb3e4b4d8a)**, which is less than your cost of lunch. For any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact our studio on: WhatsApp/Phone: [+97145520153](https://api.whatsapp.com/send/?phone=97145520153&text=Hey+Guys+I+wish+to+learn+dancing+with+you+at+Dance+For+You&app_absent=0) [Instagram](https://instagram.com/danceforyouindubai/) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/danceforyouindubai/) [Youtube](https://www.youtube.com/user/danceforyouindubai) [Quick Info](https://taplink.cc/danceforyouindubai)

[Join our whatsapp community](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Gf5MZoCgMOa0we1RAc6Eld?mode=ac_t) (Free Meetup) If you new to Dubai or there for a while ..still don't have friends or feel lonely this is perfect place to meetup people like you from your area...meet new people, make friends, connect , chit chat be happy 😊 Specially from Mankool Karama area 😎 Its a free meetup. (Once you join the group you can join various get togethers we having Live Music & Sheesha, Clubbing, Travelling, Cricket ,Festivals and many more get together ❤️) Sent message on whtsapp for any query..not on the meetup group chat as we r in meetup and cant check the app everytime)

Meet the Emirati Ibrahim Aboelkheir, socialize with the community, & grow professionally in Arabic and Emirati Culture! [Join our whatsapp community!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/LJsZpnl4d6t5CGfvSTrgct?mode=hqrt2) Here is the location: [Info Skills Office, HNS Business Center, Emitac Building, Al Garhoud Dubai, nearby GGICO Metro Station](https://maps.app.goo.gl/yR1SCWSrwHUPXbX47?g_st=ipc)

🔥 Socializing Nights Let’s Dance! 💃🏻🕺🏻 Get ready for a fun night with bachata, salsa, and great Latin music. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already know how to dance, this is your chance to enjoy, learn, and have a good time. Meet new people, enjoy the vibes, and join the workshop only if you want to. No pressure, just positive vibes! -As we have limited spots, please make sure to show up once you RSVP. Canceling last minute takes a spot from someone who wanted to attend but couldn’t book because it was already taken.- 💃🥂 Expect dancing, fun, laughter, and pure good vibes all night long! 📅 Thursday – 8:00 PM 💵 Entry Fee: 💃 Ladies: Free entry + 1 complimentary drink 🕺 Gentlemen: 50 AED (includes 1 drink) 📍Venue: Deep Lounge & Pub (Donatello Hotel) https://g.co/kgs/zku8spF Follow us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socializing_uae?igsh=MWQyeGh5ZDNqcXhtZw== Telegram https://t.me/socializingoriginal WhatsApp https://chat.whatsapp.com/FbA47CP5nXDLOFWHPx7wAi ☎️ Contact us: +971585774523 / +971 56 957 9533

**Details** ***ADVANCE BOOKING REQUIRED!*** Ready for the ultimate feel-good day out? Join us for **Deep Sea Swimming, Cruising the Palm Atlantis, Burj Al Arab & Deep Blue Sea Water -** where your creativity meets poolside vibes and tasty bites! Discover the joy of luxury sailing without the commitment of a private boat / yacht. Ideal for solo travelers or couples, friends, and small groups, Join us on the serene waters of Dubai Sea with us from Dubai Harbour. **Register and get more details!** **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 50 525 1660)](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMJPXSFjhrOC0iXMn9QY4K?mode=ac_t)** **Meet New People** Connect with fellow volley enthusiasts and expand your social network within our vibrant community. **Fun and Relaxation** Enjoy a day of laughter, friendly competition, and good vibes. It's not just about the sport; it's about the community! Grab a drink, dip your toes, and paint your heart out with step-by-step guidance. No experience? No problem! You’ll still go home with a masterpiece. * Swimming, Water Sports, * Board Games * Chess games in open sea * Fishing plans, Make New Friends * Drinks to sip **SESSION DETAILS:** **Location:** Dubai Harbour **Time:** • **08:30 AM – 11:30 AM:** **Deep Sea Swimming, Cruising the Palm Atlantis, Burj Al Arab & Deep Blue Sea Water** **Price:** Only AED 99.00 per person **WhatsApp now for further details (+971 50 5251660)** Includes: * Swimming, Water Sports, * Board Games * Chess games in open sea * Fishing plans, Make New Friends * Drinks to sip * Deap Sea access for ages 21+ only (beach deap sea areas are strictly for guests aged 21 and above.) * **IMPORTANT NOTES:** * **Deep Sea Swimming, Cruising the Palm Atlantis, Burj Al Arab & Deep Blue Sea Water** vibes! * *Limited to 15 attendees only* – book early to secure your spot!

Meet amazing people, discover new cultures, and have an unforgettable conversations 🎉🥂 Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** We’re bringing together curious minds, language lovers, and fun-seekers for a social evening like no other. 💬 Meet new people 🌎 Exchange languages 🎶 Enjoy music & vibes 🥂 Make new friends Let's meet, chat, and sip on their your drinks 🍷🍹 while smooth background music sets the mood. **🎉 What’s happening?** * Social hour 🕒 * Chat, mingle & sip drinks 🍷🍹 * Fun icebreakers 💬 * Practice English, Spanish, Arabic + more 🌍 * Connect with curious, open-minded people 🤝 Think bold conversations 💬, big energy ⚡, and friendships waiting to happen. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** 🎉 One magical night. One elegant lounge. Countless connections **🌟 Why join?** ✔ Meet people from all over the world 🌍 ✔ Practice & improve your language skills 💬 ✔ Discover new cultures & perspectives 🌸 ✔ Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with drinks, music & views 🍸🎶 ✔ Leave with new friends, new words, and new memories 💛 **Come practice your favorite language, explore new ones, or simply enjoy great company — you’ll walk away with something special. 💫** 👉 Come alone, leave with friends. 👉 No apps. No pressure. Just real people, real fun. 🎉 Drinks + Conversations + Music = One unforgettable night. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (Click on Mobile)](https://jo.my/wa-language-society)** 📅 Save the date & join us for this unforgettable cultural and social evening!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening where the energy of sport collides with the magic of music! Book your game and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-padel-meetup)** **Party in the Courts** Welcome to the ultimate Padel Social Games and Party experience like no other. We’re not just talking about a typical tournament. We’re creating a *vibe* — an electric fusion of friendly competition, high-energy beats, flashing lights, and non-stop fun... all set in unique panoramic padel courts surrounded by beautiful scenery! **🍹 Drinks, Beats & Courtside Energy** Sip your favorite cocktail or ice-cold refreshment without missing a single moment. Our court-side bar ensures your drink is never too far away, keeping you fueled and refreshed for both competition and celebration. Book your game and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-padel-meetup)** **🎧 Music All Evening Long** Our live DJ is bringing the heat with high-energy tracks designed to elevate your experience. Think booming bass, infectious rhythms, and a soundtrack that moves your feet *and* your paddle. As the night deepens, the energy rises — so expect dance breaks, spontaneous cheering, and the courts literally turning into a dance floor under the stars. **🎾 Games with a Social Twist** Don't worry about scores and pressure — this event is about connection and celebration. Games are mixed and rotated to help everyone meet, compete, and mingle. You'll leave with more than just great memories — you’ll leave with new friends (and maybe a few rematch promises too). Book your game and get more details! **[Join our WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/whatsapp-padel-meetup)** **💬 Why You Can’t Miss It** This is your chance to shake up your week with something wildly different. Forget boring evenings and stiff tournaments — here, the line between playing and partying disappears. Play a few matches, show off your best moves (on and off the court), and connect with awesome people who love life just like you. **Why Padel?** Padel is an incredibly accessible sport that's easy to learn and play. You don't need to be a pro to enjoy the game; just bring your enthusiasm, and we'll take care of the rest! *Just like any game, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* See you in the court! 🎾

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance exercised to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, reshaped in Portugal & France. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 89 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

**Karaoke Night**: Bring your glee club friends. Enjoy a flashback to your choir days. No chorus line. It's all you baby. Sing. Shout. Scream. Lip sync if you need to. But do show up and do have a good time. **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [5 Bean Coffee](https://5beancoffee.com/)!

Join us as we kick the New Year with a fun Happy Hour and your choice of two fun, new films! Option 1 is the biographical-musical-docu-drama, SONG SUNG BLUE, which stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson in the story about a real-life couple and Neil Diamond Tribute Duo. Option 2 is the comedy-action-adventure ACACONDA, which stars Jack Black and Paul Rudd as part of a group of friends remaking a favorite movie from their youth. Here’s a complete description, trailer and our plan for this event: SONG SUNG BLUE: The film follows Lightning and Thunder, a Milwaukee husband and wife Neil Diamond tribute act, who experience success and heartbreak in their musical journey together. Not a tribute to Neil Diamond, but a tribute to a Neil Diamond Tribute Band! The film is based on the 2008 documentary of the same name and is directed by Craig Brewer. It stars Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, along with Michael Imperioli, Ella Anderson, King Princess, Mustafa Shakir, Hudson Hensley, Fisher Stevens and Jim Belushi. Critics call the film, “a crowd-pleaser with a ton of heart!” TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GCM0Ztp3o1o ANACONDA: In this action-thriller-comedy-adventure, a group of friends going through a mid-life crisis head to the jungle to remake a favorite movie from their youth but encounter “unexpected events.” The film is directed by Tom Gormican and stars Jack Black, Paul Rudd, Selton Mello, Daniela Melchior, Thandiwe Newton and Steve Zahn. The film is a reimagining of the 1997 original. TRAILER: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMsFsfrPNaw PLAN: We’ll kick off the event with a pre-show Happy Hour at nearby Bravo! We’ll confirm the details and exact meeting time once we get the showtimes, but planning for 5 to 5:30pm for the Happy Hour and a 7pm-ish showing of both films. For the movies, we’ll meet inside the lobby area about 20 minutes before showtimes! Once showtimes are announced, advance ticket purchase is advised. Once you have yours, please list your Movie of Choice and seat number in the Comments below. Complete details will be confirmed and announced as the date gets closer. Look forward to seeing you there, Dan

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.

**Caller: Gaye Fifer** **Band: Hot Coffee Breakdown** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!