Live Performances

⬇️⬇️⬇️ **EN/DE/PR** ⬇️⬇️⬇️ Our 'Ensaio de Bateria' is for regular members of the association and exceptionally for those who have previous experience playing in a samba bateria (please get in touch if you're interested, we'd love to hear from you). In this session, we will dive into fresh material and technique, while also taking the time to perfect individual parts of our existing repertoire if needed. Whether you're looking to improve your groove or refine specific techniques, this is the perfect opportunity to elevate your skills! **What to bring:** * Ear Plugs (we recommend "Alpine Music Pros" from a music shop) * Water Bottle for staying hydrated * Spare T-shirt for afterwards (it gets pretty warm) \-\-\-\-\-\-\- Unsere 'Ensaio de Bateria' ist für regelmäßige Mitglieder des Vereins und ausnahmsweise für diejenigen, die bereits Erfahrung in einer Samba Bateria haben (bitte melde dich, wenn du Interesse hast, wir würden uns freuen, von dir zu hören). In dieser Session werden wir uns mit neuem Material und Technik beschäftigen, uns aber auch die Zeit nehmen, einzelne Teile unseres bestehenden Repertoires zu perfektionieren. Egal, ob du deinen Groove verbessern oder bestimmte Techniken verfeinern möchtest, dies ist die perfekte Gelegenheit, deine Fähigkeiten zu steigern! **Was du mitbringen solltest:** · Ohrstöpsel (wir empfehlen "Alpine Music Pros" aus dem Musikfachhandel) · Eine Wasserflasche, damit du genug Flüssigkeit zu dir nehmen kannst · Ersatz-T-Shirt für danach (es wird ziemlich warm) \-\-\-\-\-\-\- Nosso "Ensaio de Bateria" é para os membros regulares da associação e, excepcionalmente, para aqueles que têm experiência anterior de tocar numa bateria de samba (entre em contato se você estiver interessado, gostaríamos muito de ouvir você!). Nesta sessão, vamos nos aprofundar em novos materiais e na técnica, além de dedicar tempo para aperfeiçoar partes individuais de nosso repertório existente, se necessário. Se estiver procurando melhorar seu groove ou refinar técnicas específicas, esta é a oportunidade perfeita para elevar suas habilidades! **O que trazer:** * Protetores de ouvido (recomendamos "Alpine Music Pros”). * Garrafa d’água para se manter hidratado * Uma troca de roupa para depois do ensaio (fica bem quente)

(bad weather fallback date: 2 July) Dear ZOWSPers Every summer, ZOWSP goes island hopping. There are two islands at the end of Lake Zurich: Ufnau & Lützelau Every Thursday evening on Lützelau, there is free live music at the restaurant (more info: [https://insel-luetzelau.ch/restaurant/](https://insel-luetzelau.ch/restaurant/)) We will: - leave Zurich by train (S8) at 16:07 to Freienbach - start swimming from Spielplatz Seeanlage Freienbach to Ufnau at 5pm sharp - walk across Ufnau - swim to Lützelau - order food, drinks, and enjoy live music on Lützelau - catch a boat to Rapperswil Please note: - Signup on this meetup event is mandatory by Monday (3 days before we go), as we need to book boats to get back to Rapperswil. - Two swim groups: slower (\~3:00/100m) & faster (\~2:00/100m) - Total Swim distance: 2.5km, split into 2 parts: before & after walking across Ufnau - Bring a dry-bag to pack your phones, flip flops, clothes. - I suspect wetsuits will not be required given how quickly the lake temperature is rising. In order to participate in this event, you need to leave work early. Here are some excuses you can use: - I have a dentist appointment (overused & boring, but always works) - my cat is sick - it's my {important relative}'s {high-number rounded to the nearest 10}th birthday dinner in Lausanne - My neighbor just texted me because my dog won't stop barking, and they think a pipe might have burst in the building's hallway. I need to go check on things (the best excuse in this list, because it is too specific to be considered suspicious) Best, ZOWSP organising committee

⬇️⬇️⬇️ **EN/DE/PR** ⬇️⬇️⬇️ **🎶 Samba Drumming,** **Open Bateria** **🎶** Beginners and experienced drummers... all are welcome! This session is about discovering samba, or discovering a different samba instrument if you are already playing. ***Note:*** if you are experienced with samba enredo drumming and would like to dive straight into an ensaio please reach out to us. We are always looking to grow our core team! **💥 What to Expect:** \- All Skill Levels: From newbies to seasoned drummers\. \- No Instruments Needed: We provide everything\, but you can bring your own\. 💰 **Cost** 💰 First-timers try-out for free! 15 CHF per session thereafter (open bateria is included in full association membership). **🥁 Ready to Drum?** 🥁 Don't miss this fun, energizing session! Connect with the samba community and drum your heart out. **📌 What to Bring:** **\- Ear Plugs:** Recommended "Alpine Music Pros." **\- Water Bottle:** Stay hydrated. **\- Spare T\-Shirt:** It gets warm! \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **"🎶 Samba Trommeln, Offene Bateria 🎶** Anfänger und erfahrene Trommler... alle sind willkommen! In dieser Session geht's darum, Samba zu entdecken oder, wenn du schon spielst, ein anderes Samba-Instrument auszuprobieren. ***Hinweis:*** Wenn du bereits Erfahrung mit Samba-Enredo-Trommeln hast und direkt in eine Probe einsteigen möchtest, melde dich bei uns. Wir sind immer auf der Suche, unser Kernteam zu erweitern! **💥 Was dich erwartet:** * Alle Erfahrungsstufen: Von Neulingen bis zu erfahrenen Trommlern. * Keine Instrumente nötig: Wir stellen alles zur Verfügung, aber du kannst gerne dein eigenes mitbringen. **💰 Kosten 💰** Erste Session kostenlos! Danach 15 CHF pro Session (offene Bateria ist in der vollständigen Mitgliedschaft enthalten). 🥁 Bereit zum Trommeln? 🥁 Verpass diese spaßige und energiegeladene Session nicht! Verbinde dich mit der Samba-Community und trommle aus vollem Herzen. 📌 Was du mitbringen solltest: * Ohrstöpsel: Empfohlene "Alpine Music Pros." * Wasserflasche: Hydriert bleiben. * Ersatz-T-Shirt: Es wird warm!" \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **🎶 Samba de Bateria, Bateria Aberta 🎶** Iniciantes e bateristas experientes... todos são bem-vindos! Essa atividade é pra você conhecer o samba ou, se você já toca, descobrir um instrumento diferente de samba. ***Nota:*** se você já tem experiência com samba enredo e quer ir direto para um ensaio, entre em contato com a gente. Estamos sempre buscando crescer nosso time principal! **💥 O que Esperar:** * Todos os Níveis: De novatos a bateristas experientes. * Sem Necessidade de Instrumentos: Nós fornecemos tudo, mas você pode trazer o seu se quiser. **💰 Custo 💰** A primeira sessão é grátis! 15 CHF por sessão depois (bateria aberta está incluída na associação completa). **🥁 Pronto para Tocar? 🥁** Não perca essa sessão divertida e energizante! Conecte-se com a comunidade do samba e toque com o coração. **📌 O que Levar:** * Protetores de Ouvido: Recomendamos "Alpine Music Pros." * Garrafa de Água: Fique hidratado. * Camiseta Extra: Vai esquentar!" \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

A small in-person breakfast for founders and operators in Zürich to talk about what they are building, running, and figuring out right now. The idea is simple: coffee, breakfast, and one proper conversation with people who are building or running businesses here. This is not a panel, not a pitch event, and not formal networking. No one is presenting. No one is selling from the front of the room. It is just a small group conversation around what people are actually working through right now. We’ll keep the format simple: * quick introductions * what you are working on right now * one shared question for the table * open conversation over coffee and breakfast The group is intentionally small so everyone can actually speak and get to know each other. Everyone pays for their own coffee/breakfast. Good fit if you are a founder, operator, or someone actively building/running a business in Zürich and you prefer real conversations over pitching. Looking forward to meeting all of you as always. Feel free to message me on meetup if you can't find me, I'll respond quickly.

Come and get you **Comedy Brew**, your fix of English Stand-Up Comedy! We serve a fresh, locally sourced 'menu' of 10 comedians, as organic as your favorite farm-to-table meal, all geared up to make you laugh out loud. **Tickets at:** [https://bit.ly/iyfcb](https://bit.ly/iyfcb) Unleash your laughter at [ROBIN's coffee](https://maps.app.goo.gl/E1e3H9GRDDJaPK8z9), the coziest New York-style coffee bar in the heart of Zürich. **Dare to Make 'Em Laugh? 🎤😂** Ever fantasized about grabbing the mic and cracking some jokes yourself? Well, your dream could come true! Visit [our performer's page](https://inyourfacecomedy.ch/perform/) to find out how you can take the stage and spread laughs like a pro. **See You There! 🎤😂** Come down to ROBIN's, break some bread, share some laughs, and maybe even catch the comedy bug yourself! See you there every Thursday! Powered by IN YOUR FACE Comedy 🌟 [Check Us Out!](https://instragram.com/inyourfacecomedy/) **Tickets at:** [https://eventfrog.ch/comedybrew](https://eventfrog.ch/comedybrew) **Frequently Asked Questions** * ***Is the show really in English?*** Absolutely. Every set is performed in English by a mix of Swiss-based and international comics, so no Swiss-German skills required. * ***What’s a “Comedy Open Mic”?*** It’s the testing ground for jokes. Pros road-test fresh material and brave newcomers grab their first five minutes. Expect some gems, some flops—and the fun of seeing comedy born in real time. * ***Will it be funny?*** Most of the time, yes! An open mic is a roller-coaster: seasoned acts, new voices, and the occasional glorious train-wreck. It’s all part of the charm. * ***Can I perform too?*** Yes - you need to book a spot - find out more about how to do it here: [https://inyourfacecomedy.ch/perform/](https://inyourfacecomedy.ch/perform/). * ***Do I need to buy tickets in advance?*** Please do. We’re usually running around before the show and door sales slow things down. If you’re stuck, we’ll try, but no promises. Link to tickets as at [https://inyourfacecomedy.ch/comedybrew/](https://inyourfacecomedy.ch/comedybrew/) * ***How does seating work?*** First come, first served so grab a drink, snag a seat, and settle in. * ***Is food available at the bar?*** ROBIN’s serves drinks only. For a pre-show bite, try **Restaurant Johanniter** (classic Swiss) or **Holy Cow!** across the street for burgers. * ***Will the comedians pick on me?*** We chat with the crowd for laughs, not humiliation. Friendly banter only - you’re safe. * ***How long is the show?*** Doors open 7:30pm, show starts \~7:50pm with a 15 min break in the middle ending around 10pm. Enough time for the last trams home... * ***Age limit?*** All ages welcome of course 16+ recommended (adult themes, spicy language).

🎟️ **Get your seat at the Table for Six** 🎟️ ✨An evening of meaningful dialogue and curated guests.✨ 🧧 **HOW TO JOIN?** All seats go via a waiting list. Spots are intentionally limited. To be considered, reply with a short note: ✨ *Why do you want to come?* ✨ *What kind of connection are you seeking?* We’re not looking for perfect answers — just honest ones. 📦 **WHAT’S THIS ABOUT?** **The Stories We Carry** is not a dinner party. It’s a pause. An invitation to slow down, to listen, and to be heard. We gather not to impress, but to express. Not to network, but to connect. If you’re tired of surface-level chatter and crave conversations that leave a mark — this is for you. 📓 **HOW DOES IT WORK?** * A guided evening of storytelling, reflection, and presence. * No phones. No bios. No small talk. * Just humans, stories, and the space between them. 🕰️ **WHEN & WHERE?** 🗓️Thursday, June 25th 🕢 7:00 PM 📍 Zug (Park Hotel Zug - Industriestrasse 14) 💛 **WHAT TO EXPECT** 🪑 A seat at a table where presence matters more than polish 🗣️ A chance to share your story — or simply listen 🌌 A few hours of being fully, beautifully human ✨ This is a no-phone experience. Minds awake, hearts open 💛

**IMPORTANT: YOU NEED TO BUY A TICKET IN YOUR NOII PROFILE TO GET IN** **Auf Tinder kein Bock mehr, aber für Parship ist es zu früh? We got you!** **Wir organisieren mehrere Real Life Single Events. Jede. Woche.** 💜Lassen wir alle Single Herzen höher schlagen und veranstalten einen legendären noii Event. Vergiss Swipen und Chatten, in diesem Jahr daten wir im echten Leben (we don't make the rules). 🍸Mit bis zu 400 Personen pro Event ist immer viel los. Worst case hast du ein geiles noiices Erlebnis gehabt, best case lernst du jemanden kennen, den du daten möchtest **🌟It's a vibe.** Keine Sorge, das wird kein awkward Single Event mit einem sturen Ablauf. Es ist wie ein normaler Bar-Abend mit deinen Friends, wo du aber ganz easy noch andere Leute kennenlernst. **[HERE MORE INFORMATION](https://date.noii.ch/preview)** **So done with tinder but it’s too early for Parship? We got you!** **We organize several real life single events. Every. Week.** 💜Let's make all single hearts beat faster and organize a legendary noii event. Forget swiping and chatting, this year we're dating in real life (we don't make the rules). 🍸With up to 400 people per event, there is always a lot going on. Worst case scenario: you have a great noiice experience, best case: you meet someone you want to date **🌟It's a vibe.** Don't worry, this won't be an awkward singles event with a stubborn schedule. It's like a normal bar evening with your friends, where you can easily meet other people. **[HERE MORE INFORMATION](https://date.noii.ch/preview)**

Chicas, vamos a disfrutar juntas de un concierto en vivo al aire libre como parte del formato **«Ópera para Todos»**. Este año, y por primera vez, la **Orquesta de la Ópera de Zúrich** presentará un concierto muy especial bajo la dirección de **Gianandrea Noseda**, con el tenor **Benjamin Bernheim** como solista. El programa incluirá la majestuosa **Sinfonía n.º 9 de Antonín Dvořák “Del Nuevo Mundo”** y una selección de arias de ópera que prometen ponernos la piel de gallina. 🐔🐥🎼💫 Nos reuniremos a las **5:30 PM** para apartar lugar y disfrutar de una buena charla antes del concierto. 💡 **Traigan sus sillas plegables** para estar más cómodas o una manta y, si les apetece, un picnic 🧺. También habrá opciones para comprar comida y bebidas en el lugar. 👉 Por favor, **confirmen su asistencia (RSVP)**. 📍 **Lugar:** Sechseläutenplatz 🗓️ **Fecha:** Domingo 28 de junio 🗣️ **Nos reunimos a las** 5:30 PM 🕕 **Inicio del concierto:** 8:00 PM 🎟️ **Entrada libre** ¡Disfrutemos de una tarde de verano entre amigas! 🎶🩷 🌞 👉 Únete a nuestro grupo de **[WhatsApp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BlzRIh1oN1e4h9qIPEI6Vx)**, donde coordinaremos todos los detalles de este evento y también compartimos información sobre otros planes y actividades. Un abrazo, Laura

**🎶 Escape from reality with live music led breathwork 💨** 🗓 Date: **Friday** **evening 26.06** 🕗 Time: **18:00 -20:00** 🎟️[Tickets for this event are sold on Eversports.](https://www.eversports.ch/org/activity/c7e40c21-d4b5-4642-96f6-5a14b27fcbed) 📍 Location: [ANNTIN studio, Glattbrugg train station](https://www.google.com/maps/place/ANNTIN+%7C+wellbeing+studio+%7C+reformer+pilates,+yoga,+dance,+relaxation/@47.4303607,8.5571861,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x4790750ff37aaae5:0x6d7fac36f579e52a!8m2!3d47.4303607!4d8.559761!16s%2Fg%2F11ynkd5pn6?entry=tts&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQwOC4wIPu8ASoASAFQAw%3D%3D&skid=8e162335-44a5-4968-88b0-97308defc0c3) (10 min from HB, 7 min from Hardbrücke, 2 min from Oerlikon) ⸻ What to expect 🌬️ **Breath & movement** to unlock the body 🎵 **Deep immersive music journey** 🫁 **Conscious connected breathing** **⚡ Emotional release & nervous system reset** 🧠 From stress and overthinking into presence 🌙 Leave feeling calm, clear & deeply grounded ⸻ Most people end their Sunday already stressed about Monday. **This evening is the opposite.** **SOUND ESCAPE** is a guided breathwork & music experience designed to help you fully switch off the noise, release built-up tension and reconnect with yourself through breath, sound and feeling. We start with simple **breath-led movement** to open the body, lungs and airways, helping you land in the present moment instead of staying stuck in your head. Then the journey deepens. Through **conscious connected breathing**, carefully selected music and waves of activation and release, you’ll move through different emotional and nervous system states, from tension into calm, from mental noise into clarity, from holding on into letting go. **No performance.** **No pressure.** **Just music, breath and space to feel again.** [🎟 Tickets for this event are sold on Eversports.](https://www.eversports.ch/org/activity/c7e40c21-d4b5-4642-96f6-5a14b27fcbed) ⚠️ Limited spots available — join early to secure your spot. In case of any questions contact us here: [WhatsApp Group](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CSCUj3b814E7OagroDneOO?mode=gi_t)

**🌬️ In this journey, breath will be our guide, and music will serve as our map 🎶** Breath is one of the most powerful tools we have at our disposal every day. It shapes our energy, emotions, focus, stress levels, and ultimately how we experience life. [TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT ARE SOLD ON EVERSPORTS](https://www.eversports.ch/org/activity/1f195639-e37d-4127-9ff6-4dd93dec7316) We will **dive deep thanks to Conscious Connected Breathing** \- a practice designed to quiet the mind\, release built\-up tension\, and tap into deeper layers of awareness and feeling\. Music has always been my guiding light through periods of growth, challenge, adventure, heartbreak, freedom, uncertainty, and transformation. I want to share with you just how profoundly you can **connect with your emotions through the melodies of a carefully curated playlist and the vibrations of instruments played live.** For one captivating evening, I invite you to immerse yourself in the dynamic soundtrack of my life. It’s your chance to reconnect with your own story with the simple yet profound practice of breathing. **Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the rhythms that resonate within you!** [TICKETS FOR THIS EVENT ARE SOLD ON EVERSPORTS](https://www.eversports.ch/org/activity/1f195639-e37d-4127-9ff6-4dd93dec7316)

🍷🪩 Fuel up with a delicious apéro and dance to a live DJ set to leave your work week behind 👋🏻💃🕺🏻 🎟️ Free entry 📅 June 26, Friday, 18:00-21:00 📍 Züppe Cafe, Seefeld, Zurich What to expect🍷🧀🪩 Enjoy a live DJ set while enjoying Turkish and Swiss delicacies 😋 Freshen up with cold drinks and dance your evening away 💃🕺🏻 We will start with chill melodic/deep house so you can chat and mingle while enjoying the apéro food and drinks. While you’re fueling up with food and drinks, we will gradually ramp up the BPM to techno, and make sure that you leave the café jumping to trance with your best energy ⚡ To get a better idea of my music, you can check out my profile on Instagram @drsuedish and on Spotify (Dr. Suedish). Examples of artists I will play: Nora En Pure, EDX, Sofi Tukker, Fred Again, Swedish House Mafia, Faithless, Armin van Buren, Ki/Ki. 🎟️ It is free to come and dance--yes, a dream come true! However, it’ll be difficult to resist the delicious food and refreshing drinks at Züppe Café 😋 so we trust that you’d order at least a drink to support the café 🤗

Manche Kämpfe werden nicht mit Stärke, Worten oder besseren Plänen gewonnen - sondern im Gebet. In unserem Living Room «War Room» wollen wir gemeinsam entdecken, welche Kraft im Gebet steckt und wie wir Gott mitten in unseren Herausforderungen begegnen können. Wir sprechen über persönliche Erfahrungen, offene Fragen und Situationen, in denen Beten leicht oder auch schwer fällt. gemeinsamen Neben einem gemeinsamen Austausch, erwarten dich verschiedene Gebetsstationen, Zeiten der Stille und die Möglichkeit, Anliegen vor Gott zu bringen. Egal ob du schon lange betest oder dich fragst, ob Gebet überhaupt etwas verändert - du bist herzlich willkommen. Anschliessend geniessen wir ein gemeinsames Mittagessen und lassen den Nachmittag in gemütlicher Gemeinschaft ausklingen. Wir organisieren uns per WhatsApp Gruppe. Du kannst uns hier beitreten: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Gr5QnMQcVDDKlHuTsDHbnT?s=cl&p=i&ilr=4

We are delighted to welcome you to the second year of the **Mama Cacao Showcase**, a series of intimate gatherings where music, cacao, movement, and community come together in the heart of nature. These evenings are created as a space to celebrate presence, creativity, and connection. Under the open sky and surrounded by the quiet beauty of the forest, we gather to share ceremonial cacao and experience a carefully curated musical journey. Each edition of the Showcase features a **special guest artist**, making every gathering unique. Together with Jkson, our guest will guide us through a night of sound, rhythm, and movement—an invitation to open the heart, awaken the body, and celebrate the joy of being alive. This is more than a performance; it is a shared experience where music becomes a bridge between inner reflection and collective celebration. ## The Journey **Cacao Ceremony** We begin by opening the circle with the sacred medicine of Mama Cacao, brought from the lands of Peru. This ancient plant has been used for centuries to support connection, presence, and heartfelt communication. **Music & Ecstatic Dance Journey** Together with a special guest artist, Jkson will guide the musical journey of the evening. This part of the gathering invites free movement and authentic expression. There are no steps and no expectations—only space to listen to your body and move in your own rhythm. **Closing Circle** We end the evening in a moment of gratitude and sharing, allowing space to integrate the experience and connect with the community. ## Event Details Dates: 27.06.26 25.07.26 29.08.26 Doors open: 20:00 Ceremony starts: 21:00 (please arrive earlier to settle in) Duration: approximately 2 hours Location: Nature space in Zürich Kaferberg **The exact location will be shared on the day of the event through our community groups.** **Contribution: Donation-based gathering** **Limited to 30 participants** ## What to Bring * Water to stay hydrated * * A small offering for the cacao spirits (flowers, seeds, fruits, etc.) * * Comfortable clothing suitable for movement We recommend fasting at least two hours before the ceremony to deepen your connection with cacao ## Health Note If you are pregnant, taking antidepressants, or have medical conditions such as epilepsy, high blood pressure, or heart conditions, please contact us beforehand for guidance. ## About the Music Jkson is an Argentinian musician, producer, and ceremonial guide with deep roots in the native cultures of the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon. His musical journeys weave together ancestral voices, organic textures, and electronic soundscapes, creating immersive experiences that move between healing atmospheres, downtempo rhythms, and deep dance journeys. Explore Jkson’s work: [www.jksonmusic.com](http://www.jksonmusic.com) ## Exchange Information This is a non-profit gathering supported by donations. Contributions help cover the costs of cacao, logistics, and the production of the event. Tickets are required to estimate attendance and prepare the appropriate amount of cacao. Get your tickets here: [https://mama-cacao.ch](https://mama-cacao.ch) If you are experiencing financial difficulties, please feel free to contact us. ## Connect With Us We invite you to stay connected with our community: WhatsApp [https://chat.whatsapp.com/CbTg7sUdnB35gLX6jILEGS](https://chat.whatsapp.com/CbTg7sUdnB35gLX6jILEGS) Telegram [https://t.me/+5Bu537lvzWplZjNk](https://t.me/+5Bu537lvzWplZjNk) Newsletter [https://mama-cacao.ch/contact-us/](https://mama-cacao.ch/contact-us/) This gathering is lovingly organized by **Mama Cacao** and **Dharma Collective**, supporting the **Chakana Project**.

**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! 🥳 🎉 😄

**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

The topic for July is "Shoes" Speak Easy: true stories, told live. The idea is simple: an audience, an open microphone, and great stories. Hilarious, gripping, poignant- it's up to you. Audiences are invited to come to listen or come to tell as folks from all corners of Columbus offer their stories live on stage! Held at Wild Goose Creative's warm, intimate space, this night of tales occurs on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, show starts at 7:00 pm. Please arrive early if you want to tell, as we generally only have room for a limited number of tellers, and the sign-up sheet has a tendency to fill up fast. Formed around the idea that people need stories--they're what hold and draw us together--SpeakEasy celebrates the strangeness and commonness of being human. And in a world of smartphones, Facebook, Twitter, and more . . . it gives people a real, breathing, in-person way to connect. The night is geared for true stories of all kinds, taking the best tales told around kitchen tables, in darkened pubs, on the street corner, and at late-night parties and giving them an audience. Speak Easy is also a great outlet for performers, writers, and artists looking to share their favorite stories and perfect their skills. We strongly encourage tellers to please tell the story rather than read it so we keep within the spirit of good storytelling and stay engaged with the audience. All are welcome. Hang around after the show for a drink and build community!