Labrador Retriever
Meet other local Labrador Retriever owners and enthusiasts to trade tales and training tips.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out labrador retriever events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the labrador retriever events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find labrador retriever events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Labrador Retriever Events Today
Join in-person Labrador Retriever events happening right now
Outstation: SOLA-Stafette
Outstation: https://asvz.ch/
Party at finish.
GM to organise running teams - coming soon
UNO Challenge | der Praktikant
*English version belowđ*
**[>>Ticket (hier klicken)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/miscellaneous/uno-challenge-der-praktikant-7457165287214843782.html) oder**
**[www.social-circle.ch](https://social-circle.ch/)**
đ **Rekordversuch -** **die grĂśsste UNO-Challenge der Schweiz** mit **Der Praktikant** im **HeadsSquarter Coworking Space**
Vergiss krasse Turniere. Hier geht's um lockeres UNO mit netten Leuten. Egal ob du seit Jahren keine Karte mehr angefasst hast, an Weihnachten alles abräumst oder behauptest, die Regeln vergessen zu haben (aber komischerweise immer gewinnst).
đ˛ Unsere WhatsApp-Gruppe fĂźr das Event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DCDksVRp80qJ6TLoVpBAEd](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DCDksVRp80qJ6TLoVpBAEd)
**So läuft's ab**
* **16:00** Eintreffen
* **16:30** Welcome und Intro
* **16:45** Speed-Friending-Runden, damit du die Leute am Tisch wirklich kennst
* **17:15** Such dir dein Format:
* Offene Tische, bis zu 10 Spieler:innen
* 1-gegen-1-Matches, 15 Minuten pro Runde, der Sieger bleibt sitzen
* **19:00** KrĂśnung der Gewinner
**Was du mitbringst**
* Dein eigenes UNO-Deck. Auf der Ticket-Seite kannst du dir ein Deck buchen. Wir empfehlen aber, dein eigenes mitzunehmen, wenn du sofort losspielen willst.
* Dein Pokerface und einen klaren Kopf.
**Aufs Haus** Leichte Snacks vor Ort.
â ď¸ Plätze sind begrenzt. Schnapp dir dein Ticket rechtzeitig.
Während der Veranstaltung kÜnnen Fotos und kurze Videos aufgenommen werden. Sag dem Host zu Beginn Bescheid, wenn du nicht aufs Bild willst. Tickets sind nicht erstattbar.
\*\*\*
**[â ď¸ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/miscellaneous/uno-challenge-der-praktikant-7457165287214843782.html) or**
**[www.social-circle.ch](https://social-circle.ch/)**
đ **Record attempt -** **Switzerland's Biggest UNO Challenge,** co-hosted with **Der Praktikant** at **HeadSquarter Coworking Space**
Forget hardcore tournaments. This is a playful afternoon for UNO fans at every level: total beginners, family-Christmas champions, even the one person who claims they've forgotten the rules but always wins.
đ˛ Join our WhatsApp group for this event: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/DCDksVRp80qJ6TLoVpBAEd](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DCDksVRp80qJ6TLoVpBAEd)
**The afternoon**
* **16:00** Doors open
* **16:30** Welcome and intro
* **16:45** Speed friending rounds, so you actually know the people across the table
* **17:15** Pick your format:
* Open tables, up to 10 players each
* 1-on-1 matches, 15 minutes per round, winner stays at the seat
* **19:00** Crowning of the winners
**What to bring**
* Your own UNO deck. We include the option to get one from us on the ticket page, but we encourage you to bring your own if you want to start playing fast.
* A poker face and a fresh brain.
**On the house** Light snacks at the venue.
â ď¸ Limited spots. Grab your ticket early.
Photos and short videos may be taken during the event. Let the host know if you prefer not to be in them. Tickets are non refundable.
Join our Whatsapp newsletter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP)
AM Session - Competitive Play
Welcome to the Competitive Play Session.
This session takes place every Saturday from 10:45 to 12:15 at the Yonex Badminton Hall HardbrĂźcke.
The number of players on the waitlist one week in advance determines the number of courts booked. If you are on the waitlist but can no longer attend, please remove yourself as early as possible.
Players are accepted into the session based on skill suitability.
This session is for experienced players looking for quality games.
Play is focused on doubles with a competitive mindset and consistent rallies.
You should be comfortable smashing, return smashes and keeping up a moderate tempo throughout the session.
New players and those who are new to badminton are welcome to join the PM Session (Open Level Play).
Payment can be made via TWINT after the session.
Eurovision Song Contest | Watch the Finale with us
đ **[>>Sign up required (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/musicals-shows/show/eurovision-song-contest-watch-the-finale-with-us-free-7459869395977779333.html)** or
**[www.social-circle.ch](http://www.social-circle.ch/)**
Eurovision is Europe's biggest music night đ, and you really don't need to know any of the songs to love it đ¤. 25 countries, 25 performances, one trophy đ. We've got the big screen, the snacks, and four hours of glitter, ballads, and key changes you'll be arguing about for weeks đ. Come find out which country wins and join us for a night of fun.
đ˛Join our **WhatsApp group** for updates on this and similar events:
[https://chat.whatsapp.com/FO7KwPbfft2A8miluRzH8p](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FO7KwPbfft2A8miluRzH8p)
**The night**
* 20:00 Arrival and **speed friending rounds**, so the people next to you on the sofa aren't strangers by the time the show starts đ¤đ¤
* 20:45 Drinks settle, quick newcomer-friendly rundown of how Eurovision actually works (it's simpler than it looks)
* 21:00 Grand Final live from Vienna, all 25 entries đ¤
* \~23:00 Last performance, voting opens, phones out, opinions loud đŞđş
* \~00:30 Twelve points revealed one country at a time, jury vs televote drama, winner announced đ
* 01:00 End. Or a little later if the room is still buzzing đ
**This is for anyone...**
... who watches Eurovision every year and wants the right audience for it
... who's never really watched but is curious what the fuss is about
... who likes a Saturday night that goes a little overboard
Colourful clothes and costumes are very encouraged, not required đ
The show is long. Come for part of it or stay until the trophy is lifted.
**Want more events like this?** Join our WhatsApp newsletter to stay updated:
[https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP)
Please note that pictures will be taken during the event for use on our social media. Let us know on the night if you'd prefer not to be in any đ¸
Sentiero dellâOlivo (Lugano) (T1)
Join me for a beautiful panoramic walk along Lake Lugano on the famous Olive Tree Trail (Sentiero dellâOlivo). We will start in Lugano, reach Castagnola and follow the scenic lakeside path surrounded by olive trees and amazing lake views all the way to the charming village of Gandria.
Once we arrive to Gandria, we will stop for a visit and lunch, then take the boat to Lugano and train back to ZĂźrich HB.
đ HIKE DETAILS
* Route: Lugano â Castagnola â Olive Tree Trail â Gandria
* Distance: around 5.5km
* Duration: around 1.5h walking + time for lunch & photos
* Difficulty: T1
* Info: [https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/experiences/olive-tree-trail/](https://www.myswitzerland.com/en-ch/experiences/olive-tree-trail/)
* Info: [https://www.luganoregion.com/en/theme-trail/details/The-Olive-Grove-Trail/58645146.html](https://www.luganoregion.com/en/theme-trail/details/The-Olive-Grove-Trail/58645146.html)
* Info: [https://wegwandern.ch/wanderung/olivenweg-gandria-castagnola-wanderung-wandern/](https://wegwandern.ch/wanderung/olivenweg-gandria-castagnola-wanderung-wandern/)
đ˝ď¸ LUNCH
We will stop for lunch in the beautiful lakeside village of Gandria, with several restaurants and terraces directly by the lake.
đ TRANSPORT
* 08:45h: Meeting point: Zurich HB under the Blue Angel (08:45)
* 09:05h: From ZĂźrich HB: train to Lugano Centrale (IC2: 09:05 -> 10:58)
* 10:58h: Arrive at Lugano and start of the hike
* Return from Gandria: Boat to Lugano and then train back to ZĂźrich HB. The exact time TBD.
đ TICKET COST
* ZĂźrich HB - Lugano & return: CHF 68.- w/HT
* Boat Gandria - Lugano: CHF 9.90 w/HT
* Thereby the all-Switzerland day pass at CHF 78.- breaks even ⌠short by 10 rappen, but giving full freedom
* Consider this companion offer by SBB at CHF 39.- (For every person #1 who has a GA or day pass, one person #2 can join for CHF 39.-): [https://www.sbb.ch/en/campaign/companion-ticket.html](https://www.sbb.ch/en/campaign/companion-ticket.html)
* GA: Fully covered (train and boat)
đ BRING
Comfortable shoes, appropriate clothes, water/snacks, sun protection, sunglasses, etc.
â WEATHER
The hike will be cancelled in case of bad weather or any other unexpected event.
â ď¸ DISCLAIMER
This is NOT a guided tour. Instead, this is a get-together of individuals who themselves are responsible for their judgement, choices and actions.
It is your own responsibility to prepare appropriately before the event:
You need to understand what activity is foreseen, assess the difficulty, risks and dangers and the expected weather conditions.
Furthermore, you need to assess the requirements regarding experience, capabilities and fitness condition, and judge if you personally have the necessary experience, capabilities and fitness level.
You yourself also need to assure adequate preparation, equipment (boots, clothes, gear...) and insurance cover and do everything as if you were going by yourself.
During the event it is also your own responsibility to apply your own judgement and to take considerate responsible decisions yourself, fully within your own responsibility and judgement.
The event is entirely at your own risk. The organiser also does not warrant on the accuracy or completeness of the description above. The organiser just offers you to join one another and to go together, but holds no responsibility for anything, including injuries or death that might result directly or indirectly from this event.
Mäng - transformational game
EXPERIENCE PHILOSOPHICAL SYNCRETISM, INNER ALCHEMY, AND GAME SPIRIT.
Try a live (private) session of **Mäng (offline in Zßrich or online worldwide)**, a powerful self-exploration game that helps uncover hidden mental scripts and rewire the way you think, feel and act. It is a tool for a really **profound change** that follows the four stages of inner alchemy.
A modernized version of an ancient contemplative practice, reimagined as a transformational tool based on psychological insight, symbolic logic, and inner strategy, it is not therapy or coaching in the traditional sense. Instead, itâs an immersive deep-dive into the unconscious mind through metaphor and archetype with a game spirit.
đĄ **How it works:**
Mäng is built on four stages of real, lasting change:
1. **Discovery** â Identify limiting beliefs and internal programs
2. **Uninstallation** â Let go of outdated patterns
3. **Design** â Create new mental strategies
4. **Integration** â Embed them into your deeper awareness
Youâll be guided through this process by the **Master of Mäng**, who offers structure, questions, and insight, while you remain the one making all decisions and discoveries.
đż **Who is this for?**
For everyone (regardless of beliefs, age, gender, etc.), but more than anyone - for those who didn't find answers or sufficient depth in pop coaching and psychology.
đ **Important:**
This is a deep game. A full session lasts **4 hours**. Time slots are defined individually. Contact me directly to get an appointment.
Price for newbies: 250 CHF
PM Session - Open Level Play
Welcome to the Open Level Play Session.
This session takes place every Saturday from 12:15 to 13:45 at the Yonex Badminton Hall HardbrĂźcke.
The number of players on the waitlist one week in advance determines the number of courts booked. If you are on the waitlist but can no longer attend, please remove yourself as early as possible.
Open to players of all skill levels.
This session is for doubles with a relaxed and social focus.
Ideal for casual play, improvement and meeting new players.
Payment can be made via TWINT after the session.
Labrador Retriever Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Walk & Connect | Daytrip to Seealpsee (Appenzell)
**[â ď¸ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/freizeit-ausfluege/wanderung/walk-connect-daytrip-to-seealpsee-appenzell-7459334125192795157.html)**[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/freizeit-ausfluege/wanderung/walk-connect-daytrip-to-seealpsee-appenzell-7459334125192795157.html)or
**[www.social-circle.ch](https://social-circle.ch/)**
Cliffside hut, hermit caves, alpine lake â all in one Sunday 𼞠We take the train and cable car to that mountain restaurant from every Switzerland postcard, then hike down past Seealpsee back to the train đđď¸
Make new friends on this daytrip, in a setting National Geographic once called the most beautiful place in the world.
**Coming alone? That's totally fine!** We'll match you with people who share your vibe using the Social Circle app â we'll introduce you to it during the event
**Stay in the loop:** Join our WhatsApp group for updates and the live meeting location on the day: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CkFmnu2NL5BDJCUYXv53VG](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CkFmnu2NL5BDJCUYXv53VG)
*If the link doesn't open on your phone, try using WhatsApp Web on your computer.*
**Timeline**
* **09:30**â° â Meet under the big clock at ZĂźrich Main Station (HB)
* **10:08**đ â Take the IR 13 toward Sargans from Gleis 6
* **11:14** â Arrive at Gossau SG (Gleis 3)
* **11:21** â Change to the S23 toward Wasserauen from Gleis 11
* **12:13** â Arrive at Wasserauen (Gleis 1), cross the road to the Ebenalpbahn
* **12:20**đ â Cable car up to Ebenalp (departures every 15 min, ride is \~6 min)
* **12:30**𼞠â Walk through the Wildkirchli caves down to Aescher
* **12:50**đ˝ď¸ â Lunch at Berggasthaus Aescher on the cliff terrace (first come first served, no reservations)
* **13:30**â°ď¸ â Hike down the steep mountain path to Seealpsee (\~1h)
* **14:30**đ â Time at Seealpsee (photos, snacks, feet in the lake if you're brave)
* **16:00** â Walk down the valley path to Wasserauen (\~1h)
* **17:00** â Arrive at Wasserauen
* **17:18**đ â S23 back to Gossau SG, then IR 13 toward ZĂźrich HB
* **19:20** â Back at ZĂźrich HB
**â
Included**
* Snacks for the trail
* Moderated Speed Friending rounds along the way
* A guided tour through the Wildkirchli caves, Aescher, and down to Seealpsee
**â Not included**
* Train tickets to and from Wasserauen
* Cable car up to Ebenalp
* Lunch at Aescher
**What to Bring**
* Sturdy hiking shoes (the descent from Aescher is steep and uneven)
* Water and a small extra snack
* Cash can be useful for the cable car and lunch
* Sunscreen and a light jacket, mountain weather shifts fast
* Your smartphone for the friend-matching
**Disclaimer**
Participation in this event requires a valid ticket, which must be purchased in advance via the link provided in the event description. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. We do not accept cash payments on the day of the event. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, we kindly ask all participants to follow the instructions and announcements from the event organizers. While our team works hard to create an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere, attendance is at your own risk.
We want everyone to feel comfortable and respected. If you encounter any issues or uncomfortable situations during the event, please speak directly to a member of our team â we're here to help. We reserve the right to exclude participants from the event if they do not adhere to basic standards of respectful interpersonal behavior. This decision is at the discretion of the responsible organizers. By signing up, you agree that any content captured during the event (including photos and videos) may be used on Social Circle's social media channels and those of our partners.
Please be aware that we cannot wait for late participants, as this disrupts the planned group flow and connections. If you're delayed or choose a different route, it's your responsibility to catch up with the group. A live location will be shared in the event's WhatsApp chat to help you reconnect.
Want more events like this, join our newsletter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP)
ZĂźrich Hash House HORRORS #65: Oerlikon Playgrounds
The hares are **Jolly Roger**, **KGBounty**, **Keys To The Toblerone**.
**Where**:
Meet at Oerlikon Train Station, the north side by the Puzzles restaurant.
**When:**
We'll meet at 13:50 to start at 14:00.
**The ZĂźrich Hash House Horrors** is a fun, outdoor and social group for parents, carers, and kids in ZĂźrich.
We meet once a month to explore different parts of the city and surroundings, with a focus on fun and meeting new people. Each Meetup features a themed trail around 2â3 km long, laid out by a volunteer (we call a Hare) using chalk or flourâlike a mini treasure hunt for the kids to follow!
Along the way, we stop at playgrounds so kids can play and adults can chat. We finish with drinks and snacks for everyone big and small.
What to expect:
* Pushchair-friendly routes
* Kids aged 0â12 welcome
* English is the common language (many kids also speak German)
* A relaxed, friendly atmosphere
Cost:
Fr. 3 per adult
Fr. 2 per child (over 5)
(to cover drinks and snacks)
Just bring along a sense of fun and adventure!
Got questions? Send us a messageâor just turn up and join in.
Hike & Steam (T1)
The weather on Ascention Day is forecast to be very rainy.
So we move this to Sunday.
This is a fairly flat hike along the Limmat from Neuenhof towards ZĂźrich.
Towards the end, we stop over (or finish) at a place where they operate live steam outdoor model trains on 5 inch and 7 inch tracks. This weekend is when they have their annual open days.
See link and the photos linked below!
##############################
MEETING:
* 08:05h: Meet at ZĂźrich HB under the ÂŤBlue AngelÂť
* 08:07h: Leave for platform 41/42
TRAVEL OUTBOUND:
* 08:14h: S12 ZĂźrich HB (dir. ÂŤBrugg AGÂť) to Neuenhof
* 08:36h: Arrival at Neuenhof and start of the hike
HIKE DATA:
* Duration: 5ž hrs (plus breaks)
* Distance: 24 km
* Ascent/Descent: 160m/140m
* SAC classification: T1
* Map: [https://schweizmobil.ch/en/tour/341738489](https://schweizmobil.ch/en/tour/341738489)
HIGHLIGHT & STOPOVER:
* At ca. 14:00h, stop over at the outdoor steam engine club at ZĂźrich-TĂźffenwies. Let's take a ride âŚ
* I have foreseen a stopover of about 1 hour for this (look around, ride, food, drinks)
* [https://www.dmc-ch.ch/](https://www.dmc-ch.ch/)
* [https://www.dmc-ch.ch/veranstaltungen](https://www.dmc-ch.ch/veranstaltungen)
* Photos from 2023: [https://www.meetup.com/zurich-hike-outdoor/photos/33534062/](https://www.meetup.com/zurich-hike-outdoor/photos/33534062/)
* Photos from 2025: [https://www.meetup.com/zurich-hike-outdoor/photos/35368898/](https://www.meetup.com/zurich-hike-outdoor/photos/35368898/)
LUNCH:
* Picnic
EARLY DROP-OUT:
* If you are not sure if the distance and time is for you:
There are many S-Bahn stations, bus stops and then tram stops along the way
RETURN TRAVEL:
* The hike finishes at ZĂźrich HB
COST / TICKET PRICE:
Total ticket cost:
* Outbound: CHF 7.10 (w/HT)
* Return: n/a (or ticket from how far you've got)
##############################
DISCLAIMER:
This is NOT a guided tour. Instead, this is a get-together of individuals who themselves are responsible for their judgement, choices and actions.
It is your own responsibility to prepare appropriately before the event:
You need to understand what activity is foreseen, assess the difficulty, risks and dangers and the expected weather conditions.
Furthermore, you need to assess the requirements regarding experience, capabilities and fitness condition, and judge if you personally have the necessary experience, capabilities and fitness level.
You yourself also need to assure adequate preparation, equipment (boots, clothes, gear...) and insurance cover and do everything as if you were going by yourself.
During the event it is also your own responsibility to apply your own judgement and to take considerate responsible decisions yourself, fully within your own responsibility and judgement.
The event is entirely at your own risk. The organiser also does not warrant on the accuracy or completeness of the description above. The organiser just offers you to join one another and to go together, but holds no responsibility for anything, including injuries or death that might result directly or indirectly from this event.
AM Session - Open Level Play
Welcome to the Open Level Play Session.
This session takes place every Saturday from 10:45 to 12:15 at the Yonex Badminton Hall HardbrĂźcke.
The number of players on the waitlist one week in advance determines the number of courts booked. If you are on the waitlist but can no longer attend, please remove yourself as early as possible.
Open to players of all skill levels.
This session is for doubles with a relaxed and social focus.
Ideal for casual play, improvement and meeting new players.
Payment can be made via TWINT after the session.
Bingo Pub Crawl Party Tour
**Unique this time: Bingo Ice Breakers!** We start the night with ice breaking games to get to know eachother by finding someone who match the criteria of the Bingo Card. After socializing, we will continue to our next place all the way to the party place! Get ready to meet new people and spend a fantastic night out with Pub Crawl Zurich led by the Red Hosts.
**What to expect**: A fun night with a group of expats and locals that would like to socialize and spend the night together. Tour-guides will take you to 3 different venues, organize some games, distribute neon glow sticks and make the night entertaining :)
**When**: Every Saturday - Meet @ 9pm
**Where**: 2.Akt ZĂźrich
**Price**: from 25.- incl. shots, nachos, entrance fee to club
**Tickets**: https://tinyurl.com/PC-16-05-26 (pls buy tickets in advance)
**WhatsApp Group**:[https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dttaz9sydMZ0tSqX2MgVjb](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dttaz9sydMZ0tSqX2MgVjb) (Join for updates & pics)
**Before the Pub Crawl**:
If you come 1 hour earlier, you can participate to the Language Exchange. We encourage you to join both to have more time getting into the atmosphere and for the ease to meet new people.
Looking forward to seeing you all again!!
SĂŠbastien, Fernando, Eliseo, Katja
More information: [https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/](https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/)
Event pictures? Follow us on [IG](https://www.instagram.com/pubcrawlzurich) and [FB](https://www.facebook.com/pubcrawlzurich)
Founders Running Club :: Zurich
**Founders Running Club** (FRC) brings founders, investors, tech, creative people and startup enthusiasts together for weekly easy runs and networking. We like to be comfortable when we run and finish with coffee and conversations. Choose your pace or follow a pacerâpets, friends, family, are welcome.
đď¸ Launched in San Francisco, July 16, 2022
đ Now in 35+ cities
đ
Running + Networking events + Community
**Join the community** [http://foundersrc.com/chats](http://foundersrc.com/chats)
**Stay updated**:
Instagram [http://instagram.com/foundersrc/](http://instagram.com/foundersrc/)
Podcast [http://podcast.foundersrc.com/](http://podcast.foundersrc.com/)
LinkedIn [http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/](http://linkedin.com/company/foundersrc/)
Strava [http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC](http://strava.com/clubs/foundersRC)
Website [http://foundersrc.com/](http://foundersrc.com/)
Labrador Retriever Events Near You
Connect with your local Labrador Retriever community
Womenâs Night Out: Boots, Bites & Good Vibes
Whoâs up for a fun night out?
Get your boots on, grab your cowboy hat, and letâs have some fun!
Thinking about checking out PBR Cowboy Bar & Smokehouse for a lively evening to unwind, connect, and enjoy the night together.
⢠Lively atmosphere with country vibes
⢠Delicious food + drinks
⢠Music, dancing, and lots of laughs
⢠Great conversation and new connections
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History**
The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville.
Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people.
As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support.
The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The parkâs famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the parkâs reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts.
In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks.
**Where We'll Meet**
We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.
Brain Tumor Support Group
**Welcome to the Brain Injury Alliance of Kentuckyâs Support Group.**
*\*\*This meeting has been moved to the 4th Monday of each month.*
This group is a safe space for **survivors of traumatic and acquired brain injuries**, as well as their **families and caregivers**, to find support, share experiences, and connect with others who understand the journey.
Whether you're newly injured, a longtime survivor, or supporting a loved one, youâll find comfort, information, and encouragement here. Our professionally facilitated groups offer a confidential, compassionate setting for healing, learning, and growing together.
Join us to discover the power of communityâbecause no one should walk this road alone.
*All survivors of ABI/TBI and those who care for them are welcome.*
\* This meeting is for persons with brain tumors and their guests.
\*\* This is a hybrid meeting. For those meeting in-person dinner is served at 5:45pm. Online begins at 6:30pm.
Brunch Social at 17 Arrows Kitchen & Bar
Join us for a relaxed and enjoyable brunch at 17 Arrows Kitchen and Bar!
This is a great opportunity to meet new people, enjoy good food, and ease into the weekend with great conversation. Whether youâre new to the group or itâs your first event, youâll feel right at home.
Detroit Personality Focused Home Video Dating
**đŚ Real Speed Dating Online for Detroit Singles Personality Matched**
On the night, you'll sit down for host-managed one-on-one rounds with Detroit singles your age curated by personality quiz, as an experienced host steers the pace.
Prior to the event, you submit a short personality questionnaire â the information you provide there to pair you intelligently with Detroit locals, making every round feel more natural from the first minute.
After all the rounds, match notifications go to both parties â with no one-sided reach-outs ever happening â and you decide your next step from there.
**Your age group is your key â pick it below:**
- **Ages 18-32** â [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=18-32&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 30-46** â [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=30-46&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 40-58** â [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=40-58&face_v=4.0)
- **Ages 55+** â [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=532.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Detroit&groupurlname=club-for-serious-connections-day-trips&ar=55+&face_v=4.0)
**â ď¸ Important:** Your rsvp here is not a registration confirmation, so register through your age group link above and complete the personality quiz â places close once the group is full so sign up early, and only a completed registration locks in your seat.
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**How it works**
1. **Lock in your place** â using the link for your age bracket, then finish the personality questionnaire, since this is how you are officially confirmed.
2. **Hop on** â by clicking the Zoom invite at the event time, laptop phone or tablet â your choice, all work fine, and a host is live and will walk you through everything.
3. **Take part in the rounds** â host-guided one-on-one rounds with compatible Detroit singles in your bracket, as the host handles all transitions so conversations stay natural, as the quiz results already did the work of choosing who you meet.
4. **See your results** â after all rounds finish mutual matches are distributed privately, as privacy is guaranteed for all non-mutual selections, and once you have it you decide how and when to connect.
**Perfect for:**
- Anyone calling Detroit home wanting to escape digital dating that never converts to anything real and want to meet real locals without the faff.
- Individuals in Detroit who are tired of app fatigue and empty match queues and want to talk to real people tonight.
- Locals living in Detroit getting away from app fatigue and empty match queues and want real chemistry over profile photos.
- Daters within Detroit who are tired of matches that ghost after two messages and are ready for something genuine instead.
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⨠Done with apps â start here â use the link above to register and the host takes it from there this time. Your next chapter might start tonight. đĽ â¨
Walnut Woods
We'll hike four miles at Walnut Woods, which is generally a pretty easy hike - doing the Sweetgum Trail Loop and then out and back on the Monarch Loop to get us to 4 miles. Pace around 17-18 minute miles with no one left behind, and faster walkers can lead out ahead.
Optional lunch at Brewdog or Canal Winchester.


















