Cultural Heritage

*This event is supported by [languagecalendars.com](https://www.languagecalendars.com/)* Get **£5 off** their language calendars, posters & tees 👉 use code **HOLA5** or click this link: [https://www.languagecalendars.com/discount/HOLA5](https://www.languagecalendars.com/discount/HOLA5) **🌍 Connecting locals and internationals in London 🌍** Join us every Tuesday evening in Holborn for the London Language Exchange, where over 60 people gather each week to practice new languages, share cultures, and make new friends. See pics of our previous events on our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/babblelondon), and chat to other members who are coming via our [whatsapp group](https://languagexchanges.com/whatsapp/). **🙋 Who is this for?** All languages and levels are welcome, and we are inclusive of all ages, races, religions etc. Whether you're a polyglot, a beginner just starting with Duolingo Spanish, or you just want to come and socialise, you will be welcomed to our community of language learners and international friends. **🙌 What to Expect:** * **Language Practice:** Whether you’re fluent in Spanish, Italian, English, Arabic, Russian, Mandarin, or any other language, our hosts will help you connect with people who match your language interests. * **Friendly Hosts:** Our hosts will greet you at the entrance, give you a label where you can write the language(s) you speak and the ones you’d like to learn or practice. * **Inclusive Atmosphere:** We welcome all languages and levels, and make sure everyone feels comfortable—especially if you're coming alone! It’s a relaxed environment perfect for making new friends and practising languages at your own pace. * **Socialising:** Coming alone or with friends, this is a great opportunity to meet new people in the city. Unlike some other meetup ‘groups’, we do not fill our events with fake members, and you can check how many people attend each week via our [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/babblelondon). **👋 How does it work?** * **Arrive!** No need to register, just come to our event any time between 7-9pm and our event host will welcome you. They will have an orange lanyard and will be sitting next to our sign. * **Write your ‘Language Label’.** Here you can write your name, the languages you are learning, and the languages you can help others with. * **Pay.** Our £1 event fee pays for our lovely event hosts and keeps the event going. Card only please. * **Get talking!** With the help of our host you will be able to find other people attending the event with compatible language interests - we are all very friendly and the majority of our attendees come alone, so there’s no need to worry about getting involved! **📌 Where are we?** We’re normally located in the downstairs room of The Penderel's Oak Pub, 283-288 High Holborn, London WC1V 7HP [https://g.co/kgs/57H1Wbr](https://g.co/kgs/57H1Wbr) However, always check the location on this meetup event and in our [WhatsApp Group](https://languagexchanges.com/whatsapp) just in case there is a change. **💡 Important Info:** Please disregard the attendee numbers shown on Meetup or Facebook. Because we meet at the same time and place every week, many regulars do not sign up beforehand, but we always have a great turnout, often exceeding 70 people. We also have many more participants who join through other platforms. **🔗 Connect With Us:** Stay updated by joining our WhatsApp and Facebook groups or following us on Instagram. You’ll get event updates and stay connected with the community! [https://linktr.ee/londonlanguageexchange](https://linktr.ee/londonlanguageexchange) **FAQ:** **Who is this for?** Anyone interested in languages, from complete beginners to fluent speakers! We welcome all levels and languages. **Do I need to sign up?** You don’t need to sign up, but feel free to join our WhatsApp group for updates and announcements. **Can I come alone?** Absolutely! Many people come solo, and it’s a great way to meet new friends in a relaxed environment. **How does the event work?** When you arrive, you’ll get a sticker to write your native language and the one(s) you’d like to practice. Our hosts will help you find people to chat with based on your preferences. **What if I don’t speak multiple languages?** No problem! Whether you’re fluent or just starting out with a new language, everyone is welcome. **More Questions?** Check out our [full FAQ here](https://languagexchanges.com/what-is-a-language-exchange/) **💛 WHAT THEY SAY** **🗣** “It's so great that people are very friendly and nice here. I practised my English speaking and listening.” - Gerome 🗣 “The language exchange events are a really great way not just to practise languages but also to meet new people in your area. I’ve made many local friends since I moved to the area” - Monika 🗣 “Everything was perfect. The host was so friendly and wonderful!” - Mojtaba 🗣 "It was a lovely language exchange, with lovely people. I practised so much German!" - Sara **About Languagexchanges:** We started in Leeds back in 2014 with the desire to provide a welcoming space that brings people together from all different walks of life, with a shared love of learning languages and culture. We now have communities across the UK including Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, London, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield and York - [see all our locations.](https://languagexchanges.com/product-category/events/) 👔 Interested in working with us? [https://languagexchanges.com/work-with-us/](https://languagexchanges.com/work-with-us/) ✍️ Feedback form: [https://languagexchanges.com/events-feedback](https://languagexchanges.com/events-feedback) 📩 Email: [info@languagexchanges.com](mailto:info@languagexchanges.com)

✳️IMPORTANT - READ👇TO ATTEND✳️ 🇬🇧🇮🇳🇫🇷🇯🇵🇮🇹🇪🇸🇺🇸🇩🇪🇨🇳🇳🇿🇧🇷🇰🇷🇺🇦🇭🇰🇨🇴🇹🇷🇷🇺 Join us for our 2nd 🌎 Festive Drinks 🥂Social and our last event of the year as we say👋to 2025 ⏳ This event is much more social drinks 🥂🍹🍻 🍷🍸and just a bit language exchange! You must have a confirmed place on MeetUp to attend this event. Guests are welcome, if confirmed. There is a small £1 fee to attend this event, which you can pay on arrival. The location for this event is \*\*COVENT GARDEN \*\*We have a reserved space just for our group 😄 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Welcome to the Highest Rated International Language Exchange group in London,🏆 with 1300+ reviews rated 5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ TO ATTEND THIS EVENT YOU MUST ... 1. **BEFORE** buying your drinks, collect & wear your badge as soon as you arrive. 2. Wear your badge during the event and please return it before you leave ♻️ 3. Start meeting the community and having fun...lots of fun!😃 **Please ensure you buy at least a few drinks from the bar to support the venue, who kindly offer us a dedicated space.** www.languages.london WHEN & WHERE This event takes place at Craft Beer Co. Covent Garden on Tuesday evening **30th December from 5pm.** Please arrive by 6:30pm **The address is 168 High Holborn, London WC1V 7AA** https://maps.google.com/?cid=12246258418147807722&entry=gps 🇵🇱🇹🇼🇲🇽🇻🇳🇧🇬🇵🇸🇸🇪🇮🇱🇨🇦🇳🇱🇿🇦🇭🇺🇹🇭🇵🇪🇧🇴🇳🇬🇦🇺🇨🇭 **WHO** Languages in London events are organised for our community - being social, making new friends, building cultural bridges and always very relaxed. We have the largest number of languages and countries represented in our weekly language exchange and social events in London. This is **not** a dating event. Our events are open to Internationals, Locals, Expats, Students, Travellers..... Everyone! This is the event for a truly global community and for citizens from around the World. Is this the Intercambio you've been looking for? Want to practice your ingles, espanol , francais, italiano, Deutsch, portugues or other European languages? Asian languages ? Or maybe prefer to only speak English.... that's just fine. **All languages and all fluency levels are welcome** Spread the love...Bring your friends 💙 The creator and organiser of **Languages in London - Girish**, will always be visible at the event and there to support you and help with introductions, if you prefer. We want to remain the BEST language events group in London, being the biggest isn't our focus. These are real events with real people. We don't fill our events with inflated numbers and fictitious attendees 👻 **Community members that no-show at our events and inactive members are regularly removed from our group.** **LANGUAGES** Here's a selection of some of the languages that our community speak or have been practicing ... English, Spanish (incl Latin American), French, Italian, Portuguese (incl Brazilian), German, Japanese, Chinese (Mandarin & Cantonese), Russian, Korean, Hindi, Turkish, Arabic, Ukrainian, Polish, Hebrew, Swedish, Bulgarian, Vietnamese, Hungarian, Bengali, Dutch, Catalan, Farsi, Greek, Urdu, Welsh, Romanian, Norwegian, Czech, Slovakian, Estonian, Danish, Finnish, Turkmen, Latvian, Lithuanian, Nepali, Yoruba, Filipino, Thai, Albanian, Croatian, Serbian, Ebo, Afrikaans, Tamazight, Tagalog, Creole, Malagasy, Mongolian, Tok Pisin and more... you get the idea! 🇷🇴🇬🇹🇨🇿🇳🇴🇩🇰🇫🇮🇨🇾🇺🇾🇪🇬🇧🇬🇦🇷🇰🇪🇱🇰🇲🇦🇹🇳🇩🇿🇸🇬🇲🇾 **SUSTAINABLE** 🌎🌳 Like you, we really care about our planet. We don't like single use paper name tags, stickers or wristbands as they can't be reused or recycled and can even damage your clothing ☹️ The Solution? ...Our personalised and completely reusable Languages in London badges! 🏆👍 So, please make sure you return your badge to us, before you leave the event. We'll sanitise it (anti bacterial & disinfectant cleaners) and use it again & again & again. Thanks for helping us do the right thing and keep our costs down🙏 **SAFE SPACE FOR EVERYONE** 👮‍♂️ We don't tolerate prejudice or harassment of any kind, at any time. Be polite and respectful to everyone else and they will reciprocate. Let's keep the space safe, welcoming for everyone and free of any political agendas. Please report any concerns to the Organiser immediately. Please look after your belongings, the venue is a public place. We may take photos or video at the event for future promotional use. Let us if know you'd rather not be included, we respect your choice 📸 **SPREAD THE WORD** 🗣️💬 If you enjoy our events, please tell your friends and colleagues and help us grow **your** community, thank you ♥️ Join our community - https://www.languages.london/ We're looking forward to welcoming you at Languages in London 😊😃👋 🇲🇰🇳🇵🇧🇩🇵🇭🇦🇪🇦🇱🇧🇪🇮🇪🇰🇿🇱🇦🇯🇴🇱🇹🇱🇻🇪🇪🇰🇭🇨🇱🇲🇳🇨🇺

**The village of Marylebone is one of London’s most underrated gems.** With its elegant streets, hidden courtyards and quiet charm, it often feels like a little corner of Paris — and that’s no coincidence. In 1801, this neighbourhood became home to scores of French refugees escaping the guillotine. On this walk we wander through the heart of *Mary-le-bone*, tracing the course of the hidden Tyburn River and meeting remarkable women who defied expectations — including Britain’s first woman surgeon and a love story that inspired a wealth of beautiful poetry. We’ll slip through narrow passages, uncover tucked-away corners, and soak up the unmistakable village feel that makes Marylebone so special. **Where we meet:** Across the road from Baker Street Tube, outside **The Globe** pub on the corner of Baker Street and Marylebone Road — opposite Madame Tussauds with its gold-domed roof. **Where we finish:** Marble Arch Tube An optional finish in a nearby cafe for those who want to talk and mingle. **Tickets:** £10 per person cash on the day at start of tour Electronic payments on: https://flockless-but-free.square.site/s/shop **Practical bits:** Please arrive on time — once the tour begins I can’t answer calls or messages as it isn’t fair on the group. Most of my walks are 3–4 miles, so a moderate level of fitness is useful. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a waterproof; this is the UK, after all, and dry weather can never be guaranteed. **What3Words meeting point:** **drives.pack.noises**

Make sure to **Pre-book** your ticket through [our website](www.ontherocksbarcrawl.com/london/book-now) We're rated number 1 for nightlife on TripAdvisor in Brighton and Barcelona, and 12th in London so you know you'll have a great time ◡̈ People come from LOTS of other channels so please ignore the meetup RSVP number ◡̈ Whether you're new to London or just expanding your social circle, bar crawling is a fantastic way to meet people! Every day our crawl is full of lively people who are just there to meet new friends and have a good time. Guides will take you to at least 5 great bars and clubs in the centre of London. The guides make sure to make everyone feel included, encourage mixing within the group and introduce everyone. This makes it a great activity whether you come alone or with friends. We hope to meet you soon :) INFO: exact meeting point shared once you purchase a ticket (prices vary depending on when you book but start at £19.50) Included is : \- Entry to four bars and a club \- A free shot at each bar \- exclusive reduced drink deals at every venue \- access to the photos that we take with our big fancy camera BRING ID! 18+ years old only (Sorry, it's the law :/ ) Make sure to bring a valid Driving Licence or Passport, other forms of ID (including photocopies of the above) are unlikely to be accepted by the venues that we visit. Make sure to bring ID no matter your age. \*\*\*Please note: Due to previous bad experiences, we are unfortunately no longer able to accept stag/hen dos (or same-sex groups of more than 9) on our main crawl. To book a private crawl with us, please contact london@ontherocksbarcrawl.com\*\*\* Ts&Cs apply: [https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/](https://ontherocksbarcrawl.com/brighton/terms-and-conditions/)

ವರ್ಷದ ಕೊನೆಯ ಮೀಟಪ್ ರೀ. ಬನ್ನಿ, ತಪ್ಪಿಸಬೇಡಿ. Let's celebrate in style. We'll meet in Market Hall at Canary Wharf for some food and drinks. We can go to see the Christmas's lights from there. It'll be a laid back event, hope to see you there!

Bored after a long xmas break ???? A great walk with Barrie, this time stories from Soho and Fitzrovia From Tin Pan Alley To Fitzrovia SOHO ON THE EDGES === Music, murder & the birth of Bohemia There are many walks around Soho including some of our own but there are areas on the outskirts of the 'unsquare mile' that often get missed. This walk fills those gaps.... From the remarkable music history of Denmark Street, onto Soho square and then Oxford street, and thats just the first half. We then venture north to what some call Noho but is of course much better known as Fitzrovia where bohemian London flourished from the early 1920s. You will also hear rare stories about The Beatles, an unsolved murder, an ancient Indian sect and the oldest music venue in the world. Also learn more about the Rockers than the Mods, where to buy a button and finishing with a gruesome murder. *After the walk come and see the Bond street xmas lights* This walk will take just over two hours and costs £14 cash on the day RSVP in the normal way...NOTE THE I3.00 START any questions or queries Please contact Barrie phone or text 07860 911393

Come along on Saturday 3rd January to visit the amazing Cinema Museum! **About the museum** The museum opened in 1986 and is a collection of everything to do with cinema-going. The collection was started by cinema projectionist Ronald Grant (who co-runs the museum today) and the collection is what he has collected over the last 60 years to do with the cinema (when cinema's were independent). The collection grew far beyond its origins as an enthusiast's treasure trove to become an extensive archive of historical and social importance, and Ronald, along with Martin Humphries established the Cinema Museum to safeguard the collections future. The museum has posters, art deco cinema chairs, projectors, ushers' uniforms from the 1940's, tickets, ashtrays and popcorn cartons, as well as an archive boasting hundreds of books, photos and 17 million feet of film. The museum is housed in the admin block of the old Lambeth Workhouse (built in 1873 and one of the few remaining workhouses in London), which has it's own movie links. As a young boy, Charlie Chaplin along with his half brother Sydney and their mother spent one year living in the workhouse. **About the visit** Before we enter, I will give a 10 minute talk on the history of the Lambeth Workhouse. I will then show you a few things in the museum, before taking you upstairs to the former Workhouse chapel. Tea & coffee will then be available and Martin & Ronald will give a talk on the museum and show a short film. Feel free to ask them any questions. Then you will be able to look around the museum. The museum is only open for group visits. The visit should last about 1h 30mins. **Cost** Entry is £13 per person for Full Members and £14 for everyone else (payable on the day cash, credit card, PayPal or bank transfer). **If you wish to pay in advance:** \- Bank transfer: TSB Bank plc\, sort code: 77\-66\-65\, account no: 00030809\, Account name: Cultureseekers \- Credit card: \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QDOWSSXO)) \- PayPal \- [https://www.paypal.com/uk/](https://www.paypal.com/uk/), ‘send a payment’ to general@cultureseekers.org and click on the ‘Goods & Services’ option and change it to ‘Friends & Family’, as this avoids a charge from PayPal. **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year), either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(\(TSB Bank plc\, Sort code: 77\-66\-65\, Account no: 00030809, Account name: Cultureseekers)) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to general@cultureseekers\.org\, using the ‘Friends & Family’ option Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) **Afterwards** After we will head to the 'The Dog House pub' (upstairs) a short walk from the museum at 293 Kennington Road for a chat over a drink. If you can make it, please come to the pub afterwards, as its a great way to meet and get to know others after the visit. Please note, we only wait outside the station for 10 minutes after the advertised meeting time, so please be early or on time. If you can't see us outside the station, please text. Look out for the red and blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (prefer text) or email: [general@cultureseekers.org](general@cultureseekers.org) ***On the day, if you can’t make the visit, just change your RSVP to No or text me to say you can’t make it.*** ***Please don’t post any messages in the comments that you can’t make it, as this generates spam for everyone else.*** *Please make sure you are aware of the group rules here before RSVPing -* ***[https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/)***

If you're interested in Korean or Japanese culture, come along to our friendly meetup. This is a great chance to share your passion for these cultures, socialise or practice your language skills. We meet every two weeks at Macarong, a cosy Korean cafe in Golders Green - where you can chat with people who share the same interests as you, and maybe try some tasty food or drinks. Our meetups always have a friendly atmosphere. There's usually a mix of new people and regulars who will make you feel welcome. We're usually at a table towards the back of the cafe. Let's share laughs and memories together!

Please note: It looks like all the tickets for Sunday 4th January have now gone. I've emailed the Sky Garden numerous times, but they are not responding. If you have a ticket, you are booked on, if you don't have one, you won't be able to get in. We will though be repeating the visit in the summer. Come along on Sunday 4th January to visit the Sky Garden! **About the Sky Garden** The Sky Garden is a viewing platform at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street, a 38 story skyscraper in the City of London, which is also known as the 'Walkie Talkie' due to its distinctive shape. The garden was constructed with a slope with ferns and succulents and gives stunning views across London. When we arrive at the top, we will spend time looking at the view, chatting to others in the group and hopefully watch the sun go down at about 3:45pm. **Cost** Entry cost is free! But you will need to book your own individual ticket at the link below (tickets available from 8th Dec) and aim for the 2pm slot. [https://tickets.skygarden.london/WebStore/shop/viewitems.aspx?cg=SkyGarden&c=Tickets](https://tickets.skygarden.london/WebStore/shop/viewitems.aspx?cg=SkyGarden&c=Tickets) **Become a Full Member** To become a Full Member (£14 a year), either: \- Pay cash at an event \- Pay via Bank Transfer \(\(TSB Bank plc\, Sort code: 77\-66\-65\, Account no: 00030809, Account name: Cultureseekers)) \- Pay via credit card on the day or in advance \([https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI](https://pay.sumup.com/b2c/QLAX8AUI)) \- Pay via PayPal\, send a payment to general@cultureseekers\.org\, using the ‘Friends & Family’ option Benefits of becoming a Full Member [here...](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/531979527/) **Afterwards** After the visit, we will head to 'The Crosse Keys' pub, 9 Gracechurch Street for a chat over a drink. If you can, please come to the pub afterwards, as its a great way to meet others after the visit. Please note, we will only wait at the station for 10 minutes after the advertised meeting time so please be early or on time. Look out for the red & blue 'London Cultureseekers' group sign outside the station. Hope to see you there! Robert 07905 901 834 (text only) or email: general@cultureseekers.org ***On the day, if you can’t make the visit, just change your RSVP to No or text me to say you can’t make it.*** ***Please don’t post any messages in the comments that you can’t make it, as this generates spam for everyone else.*** ***Please make sure you are aware of the group rules here before RSVPing - [https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/](https://www.meetup.com/london_cultureseekers/photos/22974682/523578875/Group_Rules/)***

**Weather permitting \~ date to be confirmed** Join me for a Twisted Tour of British Culture, exploring stories of Highgate & Hampstead! We'll gather 11.30am>11.45ish, outside The Gatehouse pub, Highgate Village \~ discover tales of Comedians, Poets, Musicians, Film & TV, & more, plus I'll read poems, sing a song or two, & more 😊 £5 suggested donation or whatever you can afford. We'll get lunch from somewhere vegan friendly, and later on after sunset, we may head to a pub for drinks & maybe dinner 😊 See you soon 😊

Today we are incredibly fortunate to have an opportunity to see the work of the Italian artist Caravaggio. We will discuss his life and his art before visiting the Wallace Collection to see Caravaggio's Cupid, entry is free. Then we'll head out to apply chiaroscuro and shoot high contrast images. Caravaggio adopted *chiaroscuro* in his paintings in the 16th century- his work beautifully combines a realistic view of the human state- physical and emotional- with a dramatic use of lighting. *Chiaroscuro* is an Italian term referencing the contrast of light (chiar) and dark (oscuro) to model three-dimensional forms. It’s a style that has quite dramatic results and one that photographers can learn a lot amount about lighting from studying. **Join us for a workshop in 3 parts:** * Part 1: Informative session on the incredibly interesting life and work of Caravaggio * Part 2: Visit the museum * Part 3: Shoot chiaroscuro style * We will also discuss street photography tips EQUIPMENT: * Any camera * Any lens such as a standard 18-55, 24-70mm etc. OTHER ESSENTIALS * A fun and experimental attitude! TRAVEL * As usual check TFL website for any issues that may delay your journey CONTACT * Alex +44 7956 264049 UPCOMING EVENTS [https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa](https://www.meetup.com/londonphotographicopa) Photo ©Caravaggio

Are you a **B1-B2 Spanish learner** who loves literature? Our **Spanish Literature Club** is the perfect way to improve your **grammar** and **vocabulary** while exploring amazing stories! ### **What to Expect:** 📖 **Read and discuss** texts by renowned authors from **Spain and Latin America**. 🗣️ Participate in **interactive activities** to enhance your Spanish. 🎯 Expand your **grammar and vocabulary** in a fun and engaging way. ### **Class Details:** 📅 **When:** Saturdays, 11:30 - 12:30 a.m. 🎯 **First Session:** September 6th 💰 **Price:** £12 per class 📩 **Sign up now!** For more information, email us at hola@laescuelaspanish.com **Dive into the world of Spanish literature and boost your language skills!**

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."

Come and join our lively Japanese language meetup, where Japanese language learners and native speakers come together to learn, play, and connect. We’ll practice through fun games and interactive conversation in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Whether you’re just starting out, more advanced, or a native speaker who enjoys helping others, everyone is encouraged to join and participate. After the library we'll take a leisurely walk together to get food/drinks. There are many options around including North Market Bridge Park. It's a perfect opportunity to continue our conversations and enjoy each other's company over a meal.

First Sundays are free admission at Franklin Park Conservatory. Sunday, January 4th, is also the last day The Palm House will be open before renovations begin. Let’s meet, enjoy a respite from January weather, and wander the gardens. Free neanthe bella palms are available to guests, beginning at 10am, while supplies last. Afterwards, we can visit the nearby East Market (212 Kelton Avenue).

As we prepare to enter a new year, the Burning Bowl Ceremony offers a powerful and heartfelt opportunity to let go of what no longer serves us and make space for new beginnings. You are warmly invited to join us for this sacred and reflective ritual. The Burning Bowl Ceremony is a beloved Unity tradition—an empowering moment where we release old patterns, worries, or limiting beliefs by writing them down and symbolically releasing them into the flame. This act of letting go opens the door to clarity, peace, and transformation.

Start the new year with your local IxDA pals. Join members of the Central Ohio UX and design community for our monthly breakfast.

**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!