Live Music

Stop by and meet people in a positive and save space, very Friday at 8:30 pm just after our abstract workshop we start our **Speed Portrait and Cocktails event.** Before continuing your journey into the vibrant Copenhagen we invite you for a creative stop, to develop some quality interaction and create a truly hygge atmosphere in an artistic space. Set in a contemporary art gallery turned into a creative studio for the night, our **Speed portrait & cocktails** event blends with the city night life adding to Copenhagen artistic vibe and cozy atmosphere. An event that mixes caribbean hospitality, minimal aesthetic and Copenhagen coziness. As well we offer locals and temporary locals an artistic retreat from the intensity of the city. Note: Some materials are free but not the drinks.

Rainbow Group Copenhagen goes dancing 🌈🪩💃Let’s get out and go out together to enjoy some dancing at Never Mind 💫 Before we are going to meet at Oscars Bar&Cafe to have time to get to know each other and - if you want - to enjoy some drinks. 🍷🍻🍶 ℹ️‼️Some important info: This event is part of the Rainbow Group Copenhagen. We aim to create a safe space, especially for the queer community we are part of. This means zero tolerance for discrimination, including racism, ableism, ageism, sexism, transphobia, homophobia, queerphobia, or cultural disrespect. 🕘 Start Time: 21:00 📍Meeting Point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/2yTbCmbsKjVt85fq9?g_st=ic

Join Bien Contemporary for a unique evening of creativity where painting meets cocktails! Unleash your artistic side in a relaxed and social atmosphere, perfect for both beginners and experienced artists. Sip on delightful cocktails while our talented instructors guide you through a step-by-step painting session. Immerse yourself in the world of art as you create your very own masterpiece while mingling with fellow art enthusiasts. This event combines the perfect blend of artistic expression and socializing, making it an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unwind, unleash your creativity, and indulge in some delicious cocktails at Bien Contemporary's Painting & Cocktails Night! Get tickets online here - https://biencontemporary.dk/event/

**READ THROUGH BEFORE SIGNING-UP (and ensure you check your meet-up chat regularly :-) )** Can't think about a better way to wrap up the week then kayaking around the city channels. GreenKayak, a NGO dedicated to raise awareness to ocean pollution, makes few (open) kayaks available across the city to paddle and help collecting waste floating in the water. Open kayaks are typically easier to manovre than other types, and do not require EPP2/EPP3 patents. I booked 2 double kayaks for 4 ppl in total. It is possible to use the facilities at Kayak Republic free of charge: restrooms, lockers and showers. **REQUIREMENT** \- Safety first \- Need to be able to swim comfortably \- Waterproof gear preferable \- Sun lotion and sunglasses \- Change of clothes in case yours get a bit wet during paddling \- Towel\, if you want to shower or just in case **COST** Unfortunately, due to the frequent last minute cancellation last summer, it was challenging backfilling participants with short or no notice, and it was very disrespectful to the group and GreenKayak NGO. **To reserve your spot, please transfer 150 kr. to my mobilepay 25717293**. The amount will be returned to you if you show up on time, or the event is cancelled for other reasons; **this remains a free non-profit event**. The kayak rental is free of charge provided that: \- we are able to pick\-up some waste during our paddling activity \- we share our experience on the So\.Me \#GreenKayak **AGENDA** 16:50- Meet up - please be on time 🙂 16:50-17:00 Briefing and getting ready 17-00-18:45 Paddling around Copenhagen channels and return to the start point 18:45-19:00 Return the equipment to Kayak Republic **DISCOMFORT LEVEL** \- 3/5 **TO LEARN MORE** [GreenKayak](https://www.greenkayak.org/)

Join us for a post-Codegarden Umbraco Hackathon before heading home from Codegarden! **🚀 The Event** We’re gathering the community for three hours of focused, collaborative building. Whether you want to work with Umbraco AI or maybe finally start that package you’ve been dreaming about, come and hack together with us! **When:** Friday, June 12th **Time:** 09:30 – 13:00 **Where:** CPH Conference Center - Tietgensgade 65, Copenhagen, Denmark (Meatpacking District in CPH) **🎙️ Your Hosts** We are thrilled to have two Umbraco legends guiding the session: Sebastian Janssen & Lotte Pitcher. **🛠️ What to Bring** Your laptop (+ charger) An idea (or just an open mind!) **📋 Agenda** 09:30: Feel free to arrive and set up between 09:30-10! 10:00: Kickoff & Project Pitching (Find a partner or join a group). 10:15: Hacking begins! 12:30: "Show & Tell" – A quick look at what everyone built. 13:00: High fives and goodbye. Space is limited (30 spots), so please RSVP to secure your spot. See you there!

Hey Randoms, This is slightly less demanding than our average hike. The intention is to make it more inclusive for the less experienced, or the less hardcore. And plenty of time for cosy camp life too! We meet Friday afternoon, get a train from CPH Central. We get off in the town of Höör and hike a loop north of the town - that's in Sweden. Standard Randoms rules - check'em out in the group description. Destination train station: Höör. Train: Öresundståg 1096 Meeting time: 16:00 Meeting place: On the platform, by the train Train departure: 16:14 Platform: Check the information board. As usual, the Skånetrafiken mobile app is recommended for tickets. Friday: 10 KM Saturday: 18 KM We might be able to find a campsite with a shelter on Friday night. But the shelter might not be available = bring a tent, hammock, tarp, or other shelter/sleep system.

**Join us at Copenhagen Co-working & Coffee!** If you are a Remote worker or Entrepreneur of any kind, let's connect and co-work together! It's sometimes easier to focus & more enjoyable to work when others around you are working too! Anyone and everyone is welcome to join, bring a friend, and let's get some work done! Get 10% off at Espresso house if your part of the meetup 😁

Booked pitch at Holmen. Pitch is booked until 14.30 💰 **Cost:** 10 kr Mobilepay: 9539SH Revolut: [revolut.me/frederwnn](https://revolut.me/frederwnn) Or bring Cash * Event begins at 12:45 * You must sign out no later than 9:00 * Spots are non-transferable (you cannot reserve a spot and send someone else in your place) * Members who follow the rules and attend regularly will be given priority **Be at the pitch at 12.45 sharp!** Minimum 14 players by midnight and we play! Otherwise the game is cancelled. We aim for 8v8. The game is naturally for everyone no matter gender, level or anything. We emphasise on having fun! That also means no risky tackles or foul language. Bring a white and a black t-shirt and a ball if you have one. **Last minute sign-off's** (Later than 9AM on the same day) or no-shows will be banned from the next game and be put in the no-show list. 3 Strikes and you're out for a full year - no exceptions. See the list here: [No-shows @ Football.xlsx](https://kpdk-my.sharepoint.com/:x:/g/personal/hems_kp_dk/ETJW3_gniv1BmbKjidmn31wB9SFCobvhySRDW5fXSdc9Lg?e=lCafbH)

We're continuing with Saturday evening Football / soccer ⚽ The field is not booked and the event is for free 🆓 Usually the field is available at 6 PM, but if it's booked by a local club, we must move. Last minute sign-offs will be banned 🟥 for future games if it happens more than once and no reason is given. The game is for all levels, genders 👦👨 and people wanting to have fun. We keep it friendly and respectful. Everyone who can should bring a ball and a pump. Also don't forget to bring a black and a white T-shirt as we do not have bibs.

Escape the winter chill and immerse yourself in an evening of creativity, conversation, and coziness. Join us for a **Cocktails & Collage** a seasonal gathering that celebrates Danish *hygge* through drinks and imaginative art-making. Set in a contemporary art gallery turned into a creative studio for the night, you’ll begin with a delicious cocktail or a glass of wine and even alcohol-free option will be available. Once you test our cocktails you can settle into a candlelit workspace stocked with vintage magazines, colorful papers, fabrics, and other tactile treasures. A collage artist will guide the group through a meditative cut-and-paste flow where you’ll create a visual piece rooted in seasonal themes like winter coziness, Copenhagen memories, or dream landscapes. Whether you come with friends or on your own, this cozy and creative evening will leave you inspired, relaxed, and ready for winter. The bar will keep open for those who want to explore more of our cocktail menu Note: The event is free but does not include the drinks

Hey MTB enthusiast! We ride in the forests around Copenhagen. Equipment: - Mountain bike - Helmet - Water - Some snacks. Place: - TBD before the event (normally a MTB trail in a forest north of Copenhagen) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-MtJlSlJYg Please update your RSVP accordingly. Thank you and see you soon https://secure.meetupstatic.com/s/img/614102232183174521616/smileys/wink.gif https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/e/7/9/event_464231897.jpeg

Hej! Copenhagen’s not just cozy — it’s cosmopolitan too. [[[Click this whatsapp groupchat link to join us](https://chat.whatsapp.com/ITxd1esbSuyJuVVZ1wkEXS)]] Our Saturday 7:30 PM meetups gather 20–30-somethings who love international connections. Expect warm vibes, open minds, and a seat at the table for everyone. Come join the city’s most hyggeligt hangout. join us!!

We meet on Saturdays late mornings to have a casual, meaningful conversation on topics of interest to everyone chosen on the spot by majority voting. So please feel free to propose your own topic! Everyone is welcome to talk, but if you prefer to just join and listen, that is perfect too. As the contacted cafés usually only give reservations to eating guests, it is very welcome if you order something to eat during our stay. This is however not mandatory. This event is in English. The exact place can still change.

“Greenlandic Inuk artist Ivínguak´ Stork Høegh’s bold and colourful work, which often explores themes of fantasy and Indigenous Futurism, was chosen as the cover artwork for our latest issue, Arctic Indigenous Futurisms. Høegh further engages with the topic of Indigenous Futurisms with this original three-work series.” [Inuitart quarterly](https://www.inuitartfoundation.org/inuit-art-quarterly/iaq-online/how-iv%C3%ADnguak-stork-h%C3%B8egh-layers-indigenous-futurity-within-her-work) This is her IG: [art_graphic_artist](https://www.instagram.com/art_graphic_artist?igsh=cGZieG04MHl4OG9n) The meetup lasts 2 full hours with optional overtime Before starting, you can find our table and leave your things so Lou can grab a drink at the café. Once we are all seated, we introduce ourselves and start cutting and pasting.



 • 1s hour- the first round of collage is called freestyle to help us warm up. No restrictions, start finding images to cut out and paste.



 • 2nd hour - for the second round, someone proposes some simple "trigger instructions".
In the end, we show our collages and appreciate the diversity of styles.



 • After the session, we have the option to extend it a bit to get a drink or some food we can bring or order food so we can hang out a bit more. (Mellemrummet is very relaxing regarding bringing your own food from home or other venues; there is a poke place right in front.) Everyone is free to do fewer or more collages as wished, the triggers and frameworks are only a reference. We dedicate some time to appreciating techniques, shapes, colours, and textures to learn and get inspired by each other. Alongside, we chat and relax.
These sessions are not a class but rather a community gathering. We try to nurture a friendly atmosphere and take care of each other. --
Logistics:
• Bring your tools - paper, scrapbook, scissors, cutter, glue, tape, magazines, books, etc. Have it at your side on the day.
• Buy your favourite drink and introduce yourself to the rest of the people, we are kind of an international mix of all ages.
--

Now in its 26th year, [The Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/), in Gahanna, gathers world famous groups and performers at a single place for you to enjoy the best Blues & Jazz in Ohio. *SATURDAY NIGHT features: The Urban Jazz Coalition with Special Guest Brian Simpson, North Mississippi Allstars, The Deal Breakers & More.* The three-day cultural celebration features musicians on 3 stages, local food trucks and beverage stations, treats, artisans, and more. **Tickets are $15 for adults online.** Link to purchase tickets: [Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival Tickets](https://tickets.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/e/2026-creekside-blues-jazz-festival). $20 at the door. Military are free. WHAT: Here's the festival [EVENT MAP](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Event-Map/). Also, here's the [SCHEDULE](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Schedule/) map to help you determine who to see. \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* **Parking -** The Creekside Parking Garage will be open throughout the festival weekend. Entrance is located near the intersection of Mill and North Streets; accessible only by traveling south on Mill Street. **Event parking rate is $5 and collected at entrance to garage. Cash ONLY is accepted at garage entrance for parking.** Although off street parking in the Creekside District is permitted, it is very limited and not recommended. **Shuttle Service** pickup will be at the following location: [AEP Ohio 700 Morrison Rd., Gahanna, OH](https://goo.gl/maps/K9GgvgEdxCHaXsKDA) **Shuttle Service Hours:** Saturday: 1 PM - 12 AM **BRING**: *Be sure to bring a **chair** since there is limited available seating. Also $ or paycard for food and drink.*

Let's mix and boogie! We'll start with social time over dinner/appetizers/drinks from 6:00-8:00pm. Then we'll get down with a live band [Shucking Bubba Deluxe](http://www.shuckingbubba.com/). COVER CHARGE: $10.00 (cash) SBD: A great danceable cover band playing popular genres of music - funk, classic rock, pop & club/dance. [Harry Buffalo](http://www.harrybuffalo.com/locations/westerville/) has a wide selection of quality appetizers and entrees. Harry Buffalo seating is first come/first serve this evening. We need a few folks to be there by 6:00pm or so to secure a table on the patio. DRESS: Late Summer Patio (picnic table friendly) BAD WEATHER CANCEL (usually by 4pm) PARKING: lots near restaurant and down the street. Do not park at Taco Bell.

# **Saturday, June 20, 2026** **Beginners’ Session 1:30 to 2:00 PM** **Dancing 2:00 to 4:30 PM** **Band: Gem City Revelers** **Caller: David Mould** **You are invited to join us for dinner at Olive and Lime (in the church’s back parking lot) after the dance.** **Location: First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Road, Columbus, OH 43214.** **Cost is $10 for adults, $5 ages 12-25.** **New to dancing? A beginners’ session, from 1:30 to 2:00 PM, will get you started. You will learn some basic figures that will be repeated in the afternoon’s dances. All dances will be taught and no partner is needed. Dancing is from 2:00 to 4:30 PM.** **Please bring your own refillable water bottle.** **All Soles Dance upcoming dance dates are, as follows:** **July 25, 2026–Summer Potluck and Dance** **No August Dance** **September 26, 2026** **October 17, 2026** **November 21, 2026** **December 19, 2026** **Visit our website at: https://firstuucolumbus.org/connection/all-soles/**

**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 are $12 at the gate or [$8 in advance](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours). You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $20 and $75, respectively. All advance tickets are available May 1 through July 22. 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! 🥳 🎉 😄

*The streets of Columbus are going French this July!* The **[Chouette Bastille Day Festival](https://www.chouetterestaurant.com/)** returns to N. High Street this summer for an afternoon of live French jazz, traditional French cuisine, and premium cocktails, wines, and craft beers from our DORA bar. Free cover, festive, and entirely French.⁠ **⁠When:** Sunday, July 12th, 12PM to 4 PM - we'll meet about 2pm. **Parking**: Metropolis Parking garage, one block west. Metropolis Parking lot, one block east. **Note**: Feel free to come by early and grab a sit down lunch at one of the great restaurants nearby, if you like. Once the fest begins, eats n drinks purchased are walkabout, round tables, or lean in high tops. *You just may find me at a barstool at Hank's ;)*

***July is National Picnic Month*** (along with National Hot Dog/Baked Beans/Ice Cream Month)! So let's do it up by joining a giant PICNIC celebrating America's 250th Birthday! Join us at Wyandotte Winery for an **America 250–Ohio Homecoming Picnic as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States in true Ohio style!** Throughout July 2026, communities across Ohio are gathering for food, fun, and friendship to honor our nation’s history and reflect on the contributions of Ohioans over the past 250 years. Our picnic will feature a relaxed atmosphere with food, music, and opportunities to connect with friends. *BRING*: Guests are encouraged to bring picnic blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy an afternoon of community celebration. *FREE EVENT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC*: Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the shop and food trucks. *PARKING*: limited near the wine shop. Most park one block away in the church parking lot. [Wyandotte Winery](https://www.wyandottewinery.com/) has been part of the Central Ohio community since 1977, and we are proud to host this gathering during our 50th year of operation as a local place for connection and hospitality.