Live Performances

A great atmosphere to meet new people and have some fun… Our dance instructors are awesome and you get to dance with everyone after the classes to the Live band. Become an appealing dancer with some of the most respected Dance Instructors in Melbourne. At Melbourne Salsa we teach you how to be a great social dancer, to give you more scope on the social floor. *** BACHATA BEGINNER LEVEL 7:00PM (Suggested duration 3–6 months) This class breaks down the rhythm and timing, basic footwork variations and leading/following fundamentals, with basic turn patterns at a slow pace. No experience required. *** BACHATA INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 7:00PM (Suggested duration 12 months) This level expands on intricate and lengthy routines at a faster pace. Requirement: For those who have danced for at least 6 months in Beginner level 1, dance in time and can pick up complicated new moves with ease. *** SALSA BEGINNER LEVEL 8:00PM (Suggested duration 3 months) This class breaks down the rhythm and timing, basic footwork variations and leading/following fundamentals, with basic turn patterns at a slow pace. No experience required. *** SALSA BEGINNER LEVEL 2 8:00PM (Suggested duration 3- 6 months) This level is not for first time Salsa students, to enter this level you must have previously completed at least 4-6 lessons in Salsa. With an emphasis on timing and more leading and following techniques, this is a faster-paced class with weekly easy to learn moves. Requirement: First Timer level or understanding of Basic footwork, timing & turn patterns. \*\*\* SALSA INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 8:00PM (Suggested duration 12 months) This level expands on intricate and lengthy routines at a faster pace. Requirement: For those who have danced for at least 6 months in Beginner level 1, dance in time and can pick up complicated new moves with ease. *** SOCIAL DANCING: Featuring a LIVE LATIN 10 piece band and DJ’s from 9.00 pm. FEES: ***ALL FOR ONLY $35*** (CASH ONLY or EFT) Whether you choose one class or 2 classes its $35 flat rate including the LIVE BAND social from 9pm. MS Dance cards cannot be used at The Night Cat. $30 entry General entry (no classes) from 8.30pm only *** DETAILS: • Our classes are structured so that you can start at any time throughout the year and you can come & go as you please. • No partner or bookings required. • The dress code is smart/casual. • Ideal footwear for ladies- a medium to high heel. • Ideal footwear for men – leather or hard rubber sole shoe. • Class is subject to change without notice. For more details call Melbourne Salsa on 95312023 or email info@melbournesalsa.com.au The Night Cat, 141 Johnston Street, Fitzroy.

Welcome and thanks for stopping by! **What is Otakusphere?** Otakusphere is Melbourne's newest anime, gaming and pop culture club. A place for geeks, nerds, weebs and all manner of other passionate individuals to get together, share their interests and meet some new people. This is OSs first event, and we've got some big plans in place for growth; trivia, cosplay, shopping, food and so much more. Come be a part of an amazing group of people and find your next favourite movie, anime series, cosplay inspiration or best-friend-forever! **What is involved?** This event is intended as a **casual hangout,** aimed at providing an introduction to prospective and existing members of OS. Agenda is basically: * Meet some new and old friends * Bring some boardgames and have a game * Food and drinks * Chat about all things anime, gaming and pop culture! Ticket includes a complimentary beverage (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) from the Fortress Bar under a limited selection. Come get a token on arrival and enjoy! **Where to find us?** * Table will be marked by a pair of plush birds. * Pull up a chair and don't be shy! * Fortress is a licenced venue. Photo ID/Proof of Age may be required on entry. **What if the event is full?** Due to limitations with the Fortress booking, ***no drop ins are permitted***. If you wish to join in but no places are available, join the waitlist. If enough are pending entry, the event may be expanded before the start time and extra availability will be released. Interest will be considered to make larger reservations in the future :) **Discord** All major communication and community chat happens on the OS Discord server, so come connect and say Hi :) https://discord.gg/AEkT4BqtHw

Follow Tango Rebels on Facebook to keep up to date Once again we are taking over the Wheat, Wine & Whisky venue, and filling it with tango. if you have never dance tango before, this is a good opportunity for a class, and then to observe the dance in its social context. (if this is yor first ever tango class , you will not be charged for the social) we also have a more casual event the week after , that offers a better opportunity to practice after class. Details below: our events every 3rd sunday of the month: @ wheat wine and Whisly all other weekends: Saturday Class and Practica kensington Town hall 30-34 Bellair st Kensington class 2pm $20 Practice 3-6 pm $10 class + practice $25

To BOOK you must GET a FREE TICKET from the Nomads website by following: **[https://thq.fyi/se/06a41f5a857d](https://thq.fyi/se/06a41f5a857d).** Click on **Get Tickets.** **Note:** *An RSVP on Meetup is **NOT** a booking.* *Please visit the Nomads website for full and early details of events.* Join us for the annual Nomads Winter Solstice Dinner. **ACTIVITY DESCRIPTION**: Enjoy this year's Winter Solstice with the Nomads at the Syrian restaurant **[Shamiat](https://www.shamiat.com.au/)**. We will be indulging in a 3 course banquet with both meat and vegetarian options. For any other dietary requirements please contact the event leader. This is a BYO wine restaurant. There will be an extra $5 corkage fee per bottle of wine which people can pay the restaurant on the night. Other drinks can also be purchased and paid for on the night. **BOOKING**: By Wednesday 17th June. To BOOK you must GET a FREE TICKET from the Nomads website by following: **[https://thq.fyi/se/06a41f5a857d](https://thq.fyi/se/06a41f5a857d).** Click on **Get Tickets.** **Note:** *An RSVP on Meetup is **NOT** a booking.*

**SALSA DANCE CLASSES - EVERY SUNDAY** Dance classes that are super fun, in a friendly and warm environment, with a focus on technique and extra attention from your instructor, ensuring you get the most out of your class. These are casual classes so start on any week, no partner or bookings required. SALSA Beginner 1 7.OOPM (Suggested duration 6 weeks) This class breaks down the rhythm and timing, basic footwork variations and leading/following fundamentals, with basic turn patterns at a slow pace. This class can also be used as a revision or warm-up for the beginner class. No experience required. SALSA Beginner Plus 7.OOPM (Suggested duration 3 months) This level is not for first time Salsa students, to enter this level you must have previously completed at least 4-6 lessons in Salsa. With an emphasis on timing and more leading and following techniques, this is a faster-paced class with weekly easy to learn moves. Requirement: First Timer level or understanding of Basic footwork, timing & turn patterns. SALSA INTERMEDIATE LEVEL 8:00PM (Suggested duration 12 months) This level expands on lengthy routines with double turns and spinning for males and females. Requirement: For those who have danced for at least 3 months in Beginner level 1, dance in time and can pick up complicated new moves with ease. FEES: $20 FOR ONE CLASS OR $30 FOR TWO CLASSES ON THE SAME EVENING. MS Dance cards can be used at these classes. NO BOOKINGS REQUIRED JUST TURN UP! Free parking at Woolworths, 2 mins from the studio. DETAILS: • Our classes are structured so that you can start at any time throughout the year and you can come & go as you please. • No partner or bookings required. • The dress code is smart/casual or dress up! • Ideal footwear for ladies- a medium to high heel. • Ideal footwear for men – leather or hard rubber sole shoe. • Class is subject to change without notice. MELBOURNE SALSA DANCE STUDIO LEVEL 1, 326 SMITH STREET, COLLINGWOOD Entrance is behind shops, via laneway off Bedford street. For more details call Melbourne Salsa on 95312023 or email info@melbournesalsa.com.au

Sunday Evening Meditation 5.30 to 6.30pm Join us in our cosy centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Find out about our activities. Incense and other dharma books and items for sale 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

Welcome to Melbourne Volleyball Academy! 🤗 **[[WHAT]]** This session will be broken into 2 halves, 1st half is training and the 2nd half is games. Please arrive on time as we will start exactly at 5:30 PM. Our intention is to have this training be the 'next step' after our beginner-level training at North Melbourne Community Centre. We will be focusing on learning what specific roles on the court entail, improving 'volleyball IQ', breaking bad habits, and building better techniques. **[[WHERE]]** The session will be held as State Netball Hockey centre. Please enter via the main entrance (the entrance with the larger parking lot), we will be on Court 3 & 4, please ask the person at the front desk if you need directions. **[[WHO]]** The training is intended for social volleyball players at the intermediate level or 'B' level (for more details on volleyball levels, please visit our site here: https://melbournevolleyballacademy.com.au/skill-levels-explained). Players are expected to: * pass freeballs and serve receive consistently * have some knowledge of 5-1 (1 setter all around) or 6-2 (back row setter only) systems * help others and have good sportsmanship If you are a high intermediate (BB) or advanced player (A) you are more than welcome to join but you may find our open play sessions for BB/A level players more suitable. For players that are at the beginner level, we suggest attending our training on Fridays at North Melbourne Community Centre 6-9PM as beginners may find the drills and level of play too difficult. Players will be asked to attend a different session if their play is deemed unsafe or if they are not of the appropriate skill level. **[[HOW MUCH]]** $24 card payment will be collected on the day via square (EFTPOS) payment. **[[WHEN]]** The stadium is booked for 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM. However, feel free to come early and stretch as the stadium is open earlier. **Last-minute dropouts and no-shows will have a zero-tolerance policy going forward.** All players are expected to **update their RSVP at least 24 hours** in advance if they are unable to attend. This applies to players on the going list and the waitlist. **[[THINGS TO BRING]]** We ask that you bring: * Water bottle * Appropriate footwear for indoor court shoes - netball shoes, volleyball shoes, or basketball shoes would be suitable. * Wear contacts or sports glasses if possible. **[[OTHER DETAILS]]** Only those on the “going” list are permitted to play. If you are on the waitlist, or not registered at all, you will not be permitted to play.

Join us in our cosy new centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Find out about our Centre's activities Browse our bookshop for books, incense and dharma items. 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

Sunday evening meditation from 5.30 - 6.30. Join us in our cosy centre in Carlton North. Whether you are new to meditation or an experienced practitioner you are welcome at these relaxed and informal sessions. Simple instructions are provided and you can sit in a chair or on a cushion. Masks optional but not mandated. Bring your own sealed drink bottle. $10 for workers or $5 for concession. Browse our shop for books, incense and dharma items. Find out what our Centre is offering 803 Nicholson Street, Carlton North. Website: https://melbourne.rigpa.org.au/

Join us at Aspendale Gardens Community Centre for a FREE fun-filled Walking Football Mixed Gender Session, brought to you by Walking Football 4 Health Victoria. This event is designed for anyone looking for a low impact sport to stay active, be part of a welcoming community, and most importantly have fun. Our friendly hosts, Ivy (0423858705) and Rudi will be there to introduce you to walking football, ensuring a safe and engaging experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to engage in sports, socialise, and promote a healthy lifestyle in a welcoming community environment. Enjoy your first session on us — absolutely free! After that, it's just $5 per session. Sign up now and be a part of this exciting Walking Football Session. If you wish to contact the organiser, Mick directly, you can do so on: 0430 163 550 Email: [info@wf4hvictoria.org.au](mailto:info@wf4hvictoria.org.au) Website: [Walking Football | Walking Soccer | Walking Football 4 Health](https://wf4hvictoria.org.au/) Facebook Community: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/wf4healthvictoria/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/wf4healthvictoria/)

**HOW TO BOOK: *PLEASE DO NOT BOOK VIA MEETUP.*** ***You can book by phoning*: (03) 5971 1599 or** **Email:** bookings.peninsula@au.brahmakumaris.org **Or via our website:** https://bookwhen.com/bkapeninsula#focus=ev-s6x2-20231209100000 **Free: COMMUNITY MEDITATION - *every Sunday 5 - 6pm*** You are invited to join us for a quiet hour of meditation; with gentle music, guided commentary and silence, to create a peaceful atmosphere and vibration of goodwill for ourselves and our world, *in our beautiful Seminar Room; comfortable seating, soothing environment.* **COST**: *Although our programs have no fixed fee in the spirit of community service, guests are encouraged to make a financial contribution towards the running costs of the Retreat Centre. For further information, please email [peninsula@brahmakumaris.org](mailto:peninsula@brahmakumaris.org)* **ABOUT THE BRAHMA KUMARIS** **CENTRE FOR SPIRITUAL LEARNING**: The Brahma Kumaris Centre for Spiritual Learning offers classes and weekend retreats, in meditation, stress relief, spiritual awareness and positive thinking. In a world of increasing chaos and noise, there is a growing need for spaces where individuals can go and quieten the mind. The Centre provides a reflective environment. It is a place where one can detach from the daily pressures of life, re-energise the spirit, and reconnect with the inner self. Retreats and day programs are provided as a community service and all courses concentrate on meditation and spiritual study. From these weekend and residential retreats and day courses participants can develop personal skills and explore the common spiritual values essential to the restoration of harmony within ourselves and our world. **As one participant described our Centre ‘as a health retreat for the soul’.** The sense of space and warm company provide a perfect environment for personal growth. The award winning Retreat Centre is situated on a 22 acre bushland property approximately 1 hour south from Melbourne. **Brahma Kumaris Centre for Spiritual Learning,** **83 – 99 Stotts Lane, Frankston South.** **Phone for bookings: 5971 1599** or **Email: peninsula@brahmakumaris.org** ***https://brahmakumaris.org.au/new/peninsula-meditation-retreats/*** ***Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bkpeninsula*** **MEDITATION COMMENTARIES:** Sister Shivani - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgChzlOt3XI Stepping Inwards - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNheUVEzktU

**Summary** The [Ohio State Fair](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/) is consistently ranked as one of the [best](https://www.realpropertymgt.com/expert-tips/top-5-state-fairs) ... [state](https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-state-fair/) ... [fairs](https://www.dispatch.com/story/entertainment/local/2025/08/06/ohio-state-fair-named-top-fair-nation-usa-today/85527343007/) ... [in](https://www.blueribbongroup.net/blue-ribbon-foodies/tag/what-are-the-best-state-fairs-in-the-united-states/) ... [America](https://614now.com/2025/explore-columbus/usa-today-names-the-ohio-state-fair-as-one-of-the-countrys-best-find-out-where-it-ranked-here). By [acreage](https://www.google.com/search?q=largest+state+fairs+in+us+by+acreage&client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=5a1ec5f7868eb06c&prmd=ivns&sxsrf=AE3TifOrRyB0UF_zcJxuzJ2blALpROCfFA:1763485805100&source=lnms&fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZPH5QghoXViUOqdFyhkUfHhA90f6RZnLvcDKUWyhDavFJHvqNnhR_vnElk0C8uWstYqkR_Pamh3VQhx9plk87wYYnFhXCtQ6JPByPAvG0_LeyIQszFojQ7tWAfAvDzo6MwRJuWxS0jrzFWBkVvjkxbHuA6PTQnwEl88m-YBBItnTFmNlR9xZ9YLttetzKJB1GAWacLg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiX3-rHmPyQAxU6_8kDHcKPH1gQ0pQJegQIBRAF&biw=1735&bih=926&dpr=1), it's one of the five largest fairs in the country. And a million people [visit](https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2025-08-06/attendance-off-slightly-at-2025-ohio-state-fair-but-sales-of-champions-was-up-big) it each year. Last year's [attendees](https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/nearly-1-million-visitors-2025-ohio-state-fair-fun-facts-statistics/530-e6c7db59-e9ca-469b-9d3e-ef39011aca00) came from each of Ohio's 88 counties, from all 50 states, and from as far away as 26 other countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, and others, according to Ticketmaster sales data. **Map of the Fair** Here is a [map of the grounds](https://cdn.saffire.com/images.ashx?t=ig&rid=OhioStateFair&i=map2025.jpg&cb=0508a2a3). **Directions, Parking, Tickets, Timing** Take exit 111 (17th Avenue) off of I-71. Turn west (toward the McDonald's). [Parking is $10](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours) whether you pay in advance or on-site. It's generally not too bad getting in and out of the fair. You generally get an excellent spot, too, early in the mornings. There are cops everywhere and they will let you know where to park. [Tickets will be $13](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours), but through July 26, you can buy them online for $9. You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $24 and $84, respectively. I've scheduled this meetup from 9 to 3, but you can obviously come late or leave early if you want. They will also stamp your hand for free same-day re-admission if you want. The fair is a big place. You will get plenty of steps in at this event, so be prepared to do some walking! **Outside Items** From the [FAQ](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/faqs): * *Bags* "Purses, backpacks, book bags, coolers, strollers, etc. are permitted, but are subject to search. Bag searches will also be conducted for guests entering concerts and events in the WCOL Celeste Center." * *Outside Food and Beverage* "You may bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted on grounds." I like to bring a disposable plastic bottle of water with me and refill it on the grounds as I go. **What's New at the Fair** They've spent the last couple years doing major construction at the fair, and most if not all of it should be completed by the start of this year's fair. They've been massively overhauling what's located at the heart of the fairgrounds just north of Kiddleland and just west of the Midway, they're supposed to also have completed improvements to the Dairy Building. In the center of the fairgrounds, there's supposed to be a new food hall, which I would consider to be the centerpiece of the whole shebang. It's supposed to [include](https://www.ohioexpocenter.com/p/about/expo-2050-master-plan) "multi-purpose dining and event space and incubator kitchens on the first floor, and additional dining and event space on the second story." Furthermore, "both levels [will] include outdoor dining on a patio or balcony." A new "Town Square" and surrounding area will also feature a permanent "Ohio-themed carousel" that will also be "complete with ample shade and seating." The new Dairy Building will be air-conditioned and add public restrooms, a universal changing table, and other new amenities. Four hundred and sixty million dollars have been spent on these improvements and renovations, and I expect they will be very cool! **Where We'll Meet** At no later than 9 a.m., I'll be standing by the giant cardinal just inside Cardinal Gate 1, then we'll wander down to Tracey's (see below). If you come late, Tracey's is where you'll find us (DM me or drop a note in the comments if you need help finding us after you arrive). *Note: There's a smaller Tracey's booth near the main entrance. This is not the Tracey's location we'll be meeting at. You will have to walk down to the Bricker Marketplace to get to the correct Tracey's. There's more information on this, below, in the "What We'll Do" section.* If you want to come later in the day, drop me a note and I'll help you navigate to us or I'll come find you if that's feasible. **What We'll Do** This will be sort of a soft itinerary, depending on the interests of the group. The following is based on last year's [fair schedule](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/events), and might need to be changed depending on this year's schedule. But the overall fair schedule doesn't normally change that radically year-over-year. * 9:00 a.m. - *Tracey's* Tracey's is located at the northernmost part of the "WNCI Food Highway," just south of Brown Arena and at the northern corner of the Bricker Marketplace. They have a covered area with picnic tables where you can sit. They have one of the most varied food selections at the fair. They serve breakfast in the mornings, including eggs, bacon, and pancakes. We'll meet here and start our day by socializing over coffee and, if you want, breakfast. Last year, the pancakes with bacon was $7. You got two pancakes that I would describe as average-sized, and a couple strips of bacon. They gave me extra syrup for free. Both the pancakes and the bacon were actually pretty good. Their coffee is generally good, too. They also serve their coffee in Styrofoam cups, which I like because good coffee is more important to me than the environment. I've posted pics, below, of last year's Tracey's menu, as well as a picture of the venue itself relative to the main entrance of the Bricker Marketplace (this entrance faces the Celeste Center). * 10:00 a.m. - *Kasich Hall* Here they have the Ohio State Fair history exhibit, which is very cool. This building also hosts the creative exhibits, including quilts, cakes and pastries, and fair posters. Finally, events like girls' baton competitions, girls' cheerleading, youth choir, and youth boxing (my favorite) are held here. * 11:00 a.m. - *Lausche Youth Exploration Space* This building features 4-H exhibits, Boy and Girl Scout exhibits, and various science exhibits, with the latter including exhibits from COSI and the Ohio State Physics Department. You can also buy Girl Scout cookies here! * 12:00 a.m. - *Bricker Marketplace* Bricker Marketplace is the fair's main flea market. It's a huge indoor shopping area with a food court at its center. The [ODOT](https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/) booth is here, and I always like to check and see if they have any maps I want. Because Bricker is air-conditioned, it's a good place to stop for lunch. There are booths here with burgers, pizza, chicken, Asian food, and alcoholic beverages. * 1:00 p.m. - *Cox Fine Arts* There are art displays here -- paintings, drawings, sculptures, and such. I always like going through here, and people usually like the displays here. * 2:00 p.m. - *Natural Resources Park* The Natural Resources Park is next to Kiddieland, and I think it's the best area of the fair. It's certainly a very popular area. The Timber Show is popular, though I confess to finding it slightly overrated. This area also includes youth fishing, a kayak pond, archery range, butterfly house, aviary, and animal exhibits -- and these are all free. You can also get free chap stick and pens in the [Oil & Gas building](https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/oil-gas/oil-gas). The chap stick is functional, though perhaps a bit mediocre, but the pens are absolutely the best possible pens you can get anywhere, and I'm being completely serious about this. These are seriously my all-time favorite pens, so I encourage you to grab a few. **Other Things Along the Way** Again, the Ohio State Fair is a big place! So here are some of the other things we might check out along the way: * *The* *Cincinnati Circus Company, The Nerveless Nocks, Lady Houdini, or some other "death-defying" act* These typically start at 1:30 and run once every two hours in the afternoon. The show is generally decent and worth catching, whatever it happens to be. These used to run at the south end of the fair by the south gate on 11th Avenue, but a couple years ago they moved them to the south end of the Midway and next to Natural Resources Park. My guess is that this is where they will be again this year. * *Main Street Stage / Gazebo Stage* These stages are at opposite ends of the "WNCI Food Highway." They'll have shows like live music, magic, hypnosis, juggling, and the like. I usually end up seeing most of the shows, almost by accident, during my annual trips to the fair. If there's music at the Gazebo, though, it can be a little loud if the performer is using a big amp. But otherwise the shows are generally entertaining, if not spectacular. If [The Beach Geeks](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1440916777197254) are playing again this year, we are absolutely dropping everything to check them out. I'll fight people on this. * *The Midway* I'm not a big *riding*-the-rides person, and I doubt we will go through here though unless there's interest. However, I do really enjoy *watching* people ride rides, so I never have a problem taking a stroll down the Midway. I do like doing bumper cars, though, as well as some of the various haunted or fun houses. If you think there's a snowball's chance in hell I'm doing the [Defender](https://talleyamusements.com/attraction/defender/), though, then please put the bong down and slowly back away. * *The Dairy Building* This is where the famous Butter Cow is, and the exhibit is always popular. You can also get fairly overpriced ice cream and milkshakes here. Unless something changes here because of their renovations, there are cheaper places at the fair where you can get dairy desserts, and I can show you where they are. * *Taft Coliseum* An indoor arena where they have rodeo- or cowboy/cowgirl-type shows. Sometimes these shows are very good and entertaining and worth checking out. Note that, while you're out of the sun here and the seating is generally good, the arena is not air-conditioned. If trick riders [Tracie Spitznogle](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tracie-lee-spitzongle) and [Carlie Hale](https://www.facebook.com/trickriderCarlie/) are here, you are likely to enjoy their show, and it will be free (and well-attended). * *The Petting Zoo* & *Pig Races* These used to be in Kiddieland, but in 2025 they were moved to "The Barnyard," next to the Gazebo Stage and the Celeste Center. I suspect they'll have moved again in 2026, but that they will otherwise be back. They're both free and generally popular, with the Pig Races being *extremely* popular. The woman who does the announcing for the Races always delivers the exact same script year after year, but she has so much charisma you won't care, even if you've seen it many times before. * *Central Park* Sometimes I like to just sit here, people-watch, and listen to the sounds of the fair. There are typically several beer vendors right next to Central Park if you want to relax and nurse a beverage while you do so, and the Dairy Building is also very close by. This area may end up being superseded in desirability by the new "Town Square." The Park does suffer from a paucity of shade, and the Square is supposed to rectify some of this. We will see! * *Live Music* There is likely to be some sort of band performing classic rock from something like 2p-5p either in the Taste of Ohio Pavilion next to the Natural Resources Park, or in the Pavilion's replacement/renovated area near the new Town Square. The show will be free and highly likely to be quite good. You should be able to get drinks and food here, too (wherever the ultimate location is), while you check out the band. * *Zultar - Fortune Teller* I saw this guy for the first time last year. He's one of the fair's "strolling entertainers," meaning he takes his act all over the fair and you never know where he will show up next. He's got a "booth" and he wears a costume and face paint that make him look exactly like one of those fortune-telling-booth mannequins. He is completely hilarious (particularly when dealing with children), and if we see him, we will stop and watch him. Don't make me fight you on this, too, people. * *Ohio History Center* Buying a ticket to enter the Ohio State Fair will automatically get you free admission to the [Ohio History Center](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-history-center/) and [Ohio Village](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-village/), which are located just outside the fairgrounds but otherwise are just next door. They've been doing major renovations of the Village, but these are supposed to be completed by the time the State Fair opens this year. You can walk from the fair to the History Center and the Village, or they have a free shuttle you can take. It's not a short walk, but it's also eminently doable. The History Center is a museum that's really not too terribly big, but is very interesting. And the Village is a living simulation of life in a small 19th-century Ohio town. I suspect most of the people who come out this Meetup would probably enjoy both the Center and the Village. Just keep in mind, though, that if we go, we'll probably be up there for at least a couple hours, which means less time at the fair. However, you won't have to twist my arm to get me to go up, because the whole History complex is actually pretty cool. **Conclusion** Come on out to the Ohio State Fair! 🥳 🎉 😄

***Join us for a behind-the-scenes look at Wyandotte Winery!*** Discover where local wines are crafted, and gain insights into the making of small-batch wines. Learn about the interesting history of Wyandotte Winery and the unique aspects that make it a local gem. **Highlights:** • Guided tour of the wine cellar and details on our wine-making process • Historical overview of Wyandotte Winery • Opportunity to taste our current wine selection **Pretour**: *3:30-4pm*. Arrive a little early so you can preorder your food selection, ready at the end of the tour. You can also grab your glass of wine to take on the tour. **Start Time**: *4:00 PM*. **Tour Cost:** $10 (includes 1 glass of wine). Pay at the door **Light Dinner**: *5:00pm* After your tour, feel free to join us for a Fired Up Pizza or winery small charcuterie plate! We have our own space to chat and eat the food we pre-ordered. **Live Music**: Tonight they have live music open mic night on the patio *6pm-8pm*! **Parking:** usually best to park one block down the road in the church parking lot. 2 minute walk. **Note:** Touring the cellar requires taking one flight of stairs. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just curious, this tour will enhance your appreciation for wine and small-batch winemaking. Cheers!!![🍷]()

**What is a send-off?** Before we head to St. Louis for the Barbershop Harmony Society International Convention, The Alliance opens its doors to the community for a **free** preview of our competition set. This gives us the opportunity to perform in front of an audience before we take the international stage. We would love to see you there!

Join us as we get together for a CAPA Summer Movie event to see the romantic, funny, heartwarming, feel-good classic, PRETTY WOMAN! Julia Roberts and Richard Gere star in this modern-day fairy-tale romance! Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: A wealthy corporate raider hires a Hollywood escort as his date for a week of high-society business events. But what starts as a business transaction blossoms into genuine love, challenging both of their lives and leading to an unexpected romance. The film is directed by Garry Marshall and stars Richard Gere, Julia Roberts, Héctor Elizondo, Ralph Bellamy (in his final performance), Laura San Giacomo and Jason Alexander. MINI TRAILER: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K-JghOdhAwc) SHORT BONUS CLIP #1 - DIRECTOR GARRY MARSHALL Recalls Famous Scenes from the Film: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HpIMOzieGPs) SHORT BONUS CLIP #2 - RICHARD GERE on the Film’s Impact all these years later: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0T3O94dAA8) SHORT BONUS CLIP #3 - JULIA ROBERTS Remembers a Gift from Director Garry Marshall: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ4AZSjbMsA) BUZZ & ACCLAIM: A huge box office hit at the time of its release, PRETTY WOMAN has since gone on to become a modern-day classic! The film catapulted Julia Roberts to superstardom and earned her a Golden Globe for Best Actress and her first Oscar nomination! Critics praise Julia Roberts’ star-making performance, the undeniable chemistry between her and Richard Gere, and its warm, funny feel-good story about kindness, self-worth and transformation! The film’s “intelligence and wit,” “first-class performances” and “sharp, funny script” have made Pretty Woman a classic and truly “something special!” THE OHIO THEATRE: The Ohio Theatre is located at 39 E. State Street, between 3rd and High Streets, across the street from the Ohio Statehouse. From classical music to modern dance, yearly family traditions to hot concerts, the world’s best artists come to the 2,791-seat, historic Ohio Theatre. The breathtaking details (including the 21-foot-high chandelier!) of its opulent, Spanish-Baroque architecture make any night at the Ohio Theater an event to remember! PRE-SHOW ENTERTAINMENT: Now celebrating his 33rd year as featured organist for the CAPA Summer Movie Series, Clark Wilson will again provide pre-show entertainment at the keyboards and controls of the Ohio Theatre’s treasured “Mighty Morton” theatre organ 30 minutes prior to each screening. PARKING: Parking is available at Columbus Commons Parking Garage off 3rd or Rich Streets or in Statehouse Parking Garage off 3rd Street. You can find out more about parking in Downtown Columbus by visiting the Downtown Columbus website. PLAN: Purchase your ticket for the 7:30pm showing and we’ll meet outside the theater between 6:50 and 7:00pm. We’ll head in at 7pm to get good seats and enjoy the pre-show organ music! TICKETS: Tickets just $6 adult / $5 senior! Parking is available under the Capital building, in the nearby garage, or on the nearby streets. You can purchase your ticket at the box office on the day of the event or online here: [https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/](https://www.capa.com/capa-summer-movie-series/) Look forward to seeing you there, Dan