Local Businesses

We’re doing it again! The Social Sips and Bites is heading back to the State Theatre for another round of $5 COMEDY NIGHT! If you missed it last time, here’s your chance to redeem yourself (and your sense of humor). For just $5, you’ll get a night full of laughs, good vibes, and memories that might just become inside jokes. Grab your friends, prep your laugh muscles, and join us for another epic night of comedy gold. The State Theater is offering a fantastic deal—tickets for just $5! But act fast, as they’re selling quickly. If you’re interested, here’s the link to grab your tickets Don’t miss out! http://m.thestatetheatre.com/events/e2221.xml

Join us for the wonderful sounds of **Contra Rebels** (Aaron Blouin (bass), Todd Clewell (fiddle), Henry Koretzky (guitar and mandolin), Barb Schmid (fiddle)) who will bring their exciting, engergetic dancing tunes to the Spanish Ballroom for the Friday Night Dance. Our caller, **Lo Ziv Peckman**, will bring us an evening of delightful dancing fun. Don't miss this fun-filled evening! Come on out and join us for an amazing evening at the Friday Night Dance!! **All dances called gender-free.** Glen Echo Park, 7300 MacArthur Boulevard, Glen Echo, MD 20812. Tickets are $15. Purchase tickets at[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/friday-night-contra-dances-at-glen-echo-3504989)[here](https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/friday-night-contra-dances-at-glen-echo-3504989)[ ](https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/friday-night-contra-dances-at-glen-echo-3504989)or pay at the door. **The admission price includes the lesson at 7:30 p.m.** **Dance from 8 to 11 p.m.** You can register and pay online in advance, which is faster. You may also pay at the door with cash and credit cards. You have the ability to cancel registrations prior to the event, and any payment will be refunded as a credit for future use. No refunds will be available after the event has started. The Friday Night Dancers are proud to be a diverse and inclusive organization, welcoming all of our neighbors to join us in this energetic and delightful evening of fun each week. Be sure to invite your friends, family and colleagues to join us each Friday evening at the Spanish Ballroom in Glen Echo Park!! **UPCOMING FND DANCES** **January 9 - Callithump** (Glyn Collinson (bouzouki, vocals, stomping), Andrew Marcus (accordion), David Knight (fiddle)) with **Chloe Levine** calling - in the SBR **January 16 - Gigmeisters** (Ralph Gordon (bass), Alexander Mitchell (fiddle, mandolin), Paul Oorts (mandolin, accordion, guitar), Dave Wiesler (piano, guitar)) with **Alyssa (Lyss) Adkins** calling - in the SBR **January 23 - Treble Makers** (Emily Aubrey (fiddle), Robin Wilson (flute, concertina, saxophone), Liz Donaldson (piano)) with **April Blum** calling - in the SBR **January 30 - Handspring** (Alexander Mitchell (fiddle), Owen Morrison (guitar), Carrie Rose (flute)) with **Gaye Fifer** calling - in the SBR

Social Sips & Bites Presents: A Monthly Culinary Experience **Small Group • Big Flavor • Great Company** We’re kicking off a brand-new monthly food series designed for those who truly appreciate great food and even better company. Each month, a small group of just 10 food lovers will gather at one handpicked spot in the DMV area, chosen for its vibrant flavors, cozy vibe, and overall wow factor. Think hidden gems, chef-driven menus, and memorable bites. This isn’t just about eating out. It’s about sharing a beautiful meal, great conversation, and unrushed time together. Reservations will be made in advance, so you can relax, savor the moment, and connect. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventurer, or just someone who loves a well-plated dish, this is your table.

Join our weekly walking meetup to have fun, maintain a healthy lifestyle, meet new people, and enjoy the weather! We meet Saturdays at 10am, halfway between the Reston *Container Store* and *Not Your Average Joes* (by the metal benches), leaving no later than 10:05. Every week, rain or shine, we start by walking along the Green Trail to reach Lake Anne Community Center. Once there, we pause for water/bio (often staying a few minutes extra from April-November, due to the local Farmer's Market), and then we circle Lake Anne and head back to our starting point. It's roughly 3-4 miles and takes about an hour and a half. Afterwards, some members will often head to *Not Your Average Joes* or another local restaurant for a quick drink/meal before tackling the day. This event is open to all ages and fitness levels. Dogs are welcome, and we recommend dressing for the weather (umbrella, water, snow shoes, hat, etc.) since we'll walk rain or shine. Also, feel free to bring a friend! By signing up, you accept and assume all risks and responsibilities with this activity, and nobody will be held liable.

**Our resolution for this year is, to party harder:) Come help us to do so!:)** All professionals in the DMV and MidAtlantic area are invited! This event is to every and each professional in different industry, sector and specialization to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment, to meet other professionals, to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global professionalism. ***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will give out name tags and you write your name and your industry/sector/specialization. However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that area. DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR BUSINESS CARD. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well. 3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](mailto:info@merevents.com)). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.*** ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** \- Come one\, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\! \- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member\. \- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\. ***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).*** **FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITELINK. IT RULES.** [) [) [) [) [) [) [) http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg

All professionals in the DMV and MidAtlantic area are invited! This event is to every and each professional in different industry, sector and specialization to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment, to meet other professionals, to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of global professionalism. ***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will give out name tags and you write your name and your industry/sector/specialization. However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that area. DON'T FORGET TO BRING YOUR BUSINESS CARD. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well. 3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.*** ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** \- Come one\, come all; this is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\! \- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member\. \- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\. ***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).*** **FOR FURTHER INFO, REFER THE EVENTBRITELINK. IT RULES.** http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/3/2/b/600_449154059.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/e/7/a/600_448335994.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/0/2/6/600_448197382.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/1/7/600_448196599.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/8/e/600_434712942.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/9/a/600_434712954.jpeg

Open gaming at Panera! New players welcome. We have many games on hand or you can bring your own. We are happy to teach or learn one of yours.

It’s likely cold so we’ll be meeting inside for the first coffee meetup of the new year! Come out for some low key conversations and the chance to meet new people in person over a hot cup of something. The venue also has a decent array of food options! We typically take over some chairs in the upstairs alcove to the left. Note there is an attendance cap and waitlist because we will be indoors and have limited space available - please be considerate and update your RSVP if you won’t be able to attend so someone else has the chance. *for everyone’s safety, please ensure your profile has at least a first name and/or face photo so we can see who is attending the event. Fully appreciate online privacy but we need the basics to keep everyone safe meeting strangers*

Join DC Metro Crafts for the first 2026 meetup! We'll be at Quill and Crumbs, the cafe at the Shakespeare Folger Library. The Shakespeare Folger Library is about 3 blocks from the Capitol South metro. Head up First as you get out of the station, pass the Library of Congress and the Capitol, turn right on East Capitol, and the Folger is on the right. The entrance is around the side, not through the front of the building. The cafe is upstairs. Bring your own cross stitch, knitting, crochet, or other portable craft. We'll be in the back at the group tables.

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **This is a curated, small-group meetup make new friends in Washington.** Each meetup brings together 4–6 like-minded people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to organize and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com](https://groupvibe.com) Once you register, and **buy a ticket or become a Groupvibe member**, we’ll share the exact location and match you with your group. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier \* Matching helps avoid awkward dynamics **Note:** RSVPs here on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. This meetup is organized by **Groupvibe**, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

Shake off your NYE hangover and start the year a new with a hike at Scott's Run. Parking is tight at this locale, so try to get there about 10 mins early. I have attached a picture of the map below.

** meet for happy hour at Cuba Libre Restaurant @ 5:30 prior to the Meet Up. 801 9th St NW ** Hey Chapter 2ers! Come celebrate the first Friday of the New Year with dinner and drinks at the City Tap House in Penn Quarter. City Tap House is a short walk from the Gallery Place Metro, 901 9th St, NW. (Don't get confused and go to the one near DuPont Circle!). Free drink to anyone who has already violated a New Year's resolution! Also some may be gathering earlier for happy hour. More info on that to come. Here’s the “more to come” happy hour info: A few of us are meeting for HH at 5:30 at Cuba Libre, which is right around the corner. 801 9th St NW. (Info is also in the messages.) Looking forward to our first 2026 event!

**PLEASE BUY TICKETS THROUGH EVENTBRITE. RSVP THROUGH MEETUP IS NOT A TICKET PURCHASE CONFIRMATION.** Strive welcomes you to 'General Business Networking', Columbus' hottest networking event! We are set in the perfect central location in Downtown for all to join. Are you interested in business? Want to elevate your career? Meet Consultants, Analysts of all types, Bankers, Software Engineers, Entrepreneurs, and more who are active in the space or are eager to get started. **\*\*This will be a multi-vertical event\*\*** **There will be professionals with backgrounds in the arts, finance, tech, real estate, healthcare, and more. Come with an open mind, and leave with connections that wouldn't be possible otherwise!** Pack some business cards and come with an open mind! Meet your future business partners, employers, coworkers, investors, and friends. You don't want to miss this opportunity to expand your network and create a brighter future. We will have a space for our event to check-in. The event will go from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM (feel free to come at any point in this timeframe). Name tags will be provided. Business casual dress code. Job fair attire. **Remember, it's not who you know, it's who you meet tomorrow!** We look forward to meeting you at the event! Sincerely, Strive Networking Team *Refund requests are permitted up to 24 hours after purchase, so long as we are not within 48 hours before the event start time. Refunds will be made in full and repaid to your method of payment. Note that we are unable to reimburse PayPal fees.* *Disclaimer: By attending Strive Networking events you agree to photos/videos taken during the event being used to promote future events.*

Inspired by the successful events like "Pot Luck in the Park" and "Saturday Mornings @ East Market," this meetup promises a fun and engaging atmosphere where like-minded individuals can connect over a shared love for languages and cultures. Whether you're a language learner, ESL student, or simply passionate about exploring new cultures, this event is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a diverse and welcoming community. Come join us for an enlightening evening of language, culture, food, of course, and connections! (Everyone will choose from the menu and pay individually)

Bring your business cards and network in person with other business professionals! Gold Star Referral Clubs is one of the most established professional networking organizations in the country, with multiple groups in central Ohio. Join us!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [5 Bean Coffee](https://5beancoffee.com/)!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. If the weather cooperates we will be meeting in the patio. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who want to discuss international travel and culture, and anyone who enjoys getting together for good conversations."

Join us for lunch and meet our very successful group. We are each others sales team...always looking for referrals for our members. If you are looking for new clients, let us help you out! Bring your business cards and brochures to share with us. We have a speaker each week so that we can learn about their business. Because we have only one member per business, we have many of the spots filled. However, we are specifically looking for an estate attorney, a handyman/electrician, and an event planner. We have referrals for you! All visitors are welcome. Any questions contact [pmarchio@farmersagent.com](mailto:pmarchio@farmersagent.com)

Let’s meet for dinner at the Rossi, In the short north. The plan is to have dinner and then head over to Good Night John Boy around 9 pm for drinks and dancing. Please only RSVP if you are having dinner so that I have a head count for the restaurant. If you want to only join us for John Night John Boy, you don’t have to RSVP, you can write a comment under the event. This is the menu for the restaurant: https://rossikitchenandbar.com/dinner