Cocktails
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out cocktails events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the cocktails events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find cocktails events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Cocktails Events Today
Join in-person Cocktails events happening right now
Mixer & After Party – Exclusive Mayfair Members Club
Join us for an exclusive Cocktails & Conversation evening at **Maison Close**, one of **Mayfair’s newest and most talked-about hotspots** — intimate, atmospheric, and effortlessly chic.
[Purchase ticket here ](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mixer-after-party-exclusive-mayfair-members-club-entry-by-10pm-tickets-1984314126970?aff=oddtdtcreator)
For the first part of the evening, the venue will be **open exclusively to our guests from 8:00pm**, creating the ideal setting for relaxed introductions, meaningful conversations, and stylish mingling in elegant surroundings.
### What to expect
🥂 **Welcome drink** on arrival (8:00–8:30pm)
🎶 Soft, carefully curated music to keep the atmosphere warm and social
💬 Friendly C&C hosts subtly make introductions and help conversations flow
Expect around **120 discerning guests**, all there for the same reason — to meet like-minded people in a refined, comfortable environment that feels far removed from apps or awkward mixers.
From **10:30pm**, Maison Close opens to their invited guests. You’re very welcome to stay on as the energy lifts, the lights dim slightly, and the night evolves into a **lively Mayfair soirée**, complete with house music and a stylish late-night crowd.
### Good to know
✨ **Age guide:** 24–46
👗 **Dress code:** Smart & stylish (this is Mayfair — effortless polish encouraged)
🪪 **Photo ID may be required**
As always, Cocktails & Conversation events are about **quality over quantity** — beautiful venues, well-matched guests, and an atmosphere where mixing and mingling feels natural, relaxed, and genuinely enjoyable.
[purchase ticket here](https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/mixer-after-party-exclusive-mayfair-members-club-entry-by-10pm-tickets-1984314126970?aff=oddtdtcreator)
We look forward to welcoming you for an evening that begins with conversation… and ends wherever the night takes you 🍸✨
Sailing Taster Day (1)
***PLEASE NOTE:*** *Signup for our events must be made through the London Sailing Club website, and not via Meetup - [click here to register](https://www.londonsailing.club/Events/Calendar/View?id=200). If you are not already a member of the club you will need to become a full or social member which you can do [by clicking here](https://www.londonsailing.club/Registration/Register?isSlotReAssignment=False).*
(Depart from / Return to Port Hamble Marina)
**London Sailing Club Taster Day**
Have you been along to one of our socials and heard about our sailing trips, or seen club trips advertised on Meetup or our club's website, but you're not quite sure whether it's for you? Here is your chance to try out sailing with the club without committing to a multi-day trip. We're sure you're going to love it out on the water with us, and will want to come out with us again!
For insurance reasons all participants in club trips must be adults and full members of the club (annual membership fee is £24). We're confident you will have a great time and will want to come and sail with us again, but we're happy to refund your membership fee if, after your taster day, you decide membership is not for you.
Membership benefits include the ability to join sailing trips in the UK, the Mediterranean and other European destinations, sailing skills weekends, lots of varied social events, free online Theory classes, access to our "Take The Helm" coaching programme to help you develop practical skippering experience after obtaining Day Skipper, special discounts on occasional RYA training from accredited schools, and up to 15% discount on bareboat chartering with partner companies.
*Taster Day Plan*
We will meet at Port Hamble Marina at 9am for introductions and a safety briefing aboard the yacht. Parking is available at the marina. We'll aim to set off before 10am to make the most of a day sailing on the Solent. Depending on the weather and the wind we might drop anchor for lunch, after which we'll make our way back to Port Hamble Marina and be off the boats around 4.00pm. Participants are welcome to stay on for drinks in the marina bar where they will likely meet other club members.
If getting to Port Hamble by 9am is likely to be difficult, you are welcome to stay on the yacht the night before for an additional £20. Accommodation is in shared double cabins, though if fewer than 3 people request this option you may well have your own cabin.
First time sailors may wish to [take a look at our list of FAQs](https://www.londonsailing.club/Cms/Spaces/DEFAULT/FAQs+for+firsttime+sailors) and we also have a [recommended kit list](https://www.londonsailing.club/Cms/Spaces/DEFAULT/Recommended+kit+lists+for+sailing+trips).
*Yachts*
We have chartered a 37ft yacht and will sail with a maximum of six. We want everyone to have enough space and a proper chance to be involved in the sailing. If you’re new to yachting, you’ll be pleased to know the boats have heating, hot/cold running water, a bathroom, a kitchen with a fridge, and more than enough electricity to charge your phone!
*Skippers & First Mates*
The crew will be led by one of LSC's fantastic and experienced skippers and depending on the level of experience on board we may also have a First Mate from the club's Take The Helm programme.
*Kit*
No special or expensive sailing kit required! Just bring practical footwear and clothing to suit the weather forecast. Lifejackets are provided. Foul weather gear can be hired locally if needed. Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen and a change of clothes if the forecast suggests it!
If you are staying on the boat you should bring a sleeping bag and pillow as no bedding is provided. The marina has shoreside showers and toilets, so you are not restricted to using the more limited facilities on board the boat.
*Cost*
This is a non-commercial trip run on a shared-cost basis. The cost is £90 per person (not including the annual membership fee for which you pay separately), which covers the yacht charter, fuel, marina fees, lunch, snacks, and soft drinks on board during the taster day, as well as a £5 contribution to the club's Muck Up Fund which allows us to help skippers on club trips manage the risk of accidental damage caused by trip participants. It doesn’t cover getting yourself to/from the trip or any meals or drinks on shore. We ask for the full amount up front to secure your place. Accommodation on board the night before is available separately at an additional £20.
Note that, because this trip is being advertised via the London Sailing Club’s platforms, any participant who is not already a full member of the Club (which costs £24 per year) will need to join prior to the start of the trip. We're sure you're going to love sailing with us and will want to come along on more trips, but if you decide that you don't want to sail with us after your taster day we will refund your membership fee.
London Sailing Club Ts and Cs apply.
Great Conversations with Friends at the Pub
Join us for a day filled with laughter and great conversations with friends at The REAL Over 40s meetup group. Unwind with a drink in hand as we enjoy a pit-stop before the next week ahead. This social gathering is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share stories, and create lasting memories.
We meet at table 45. See you there 👍
P.S There are always atleast 15 to 20 people show up regardless of rsvp numbers.
Singles Party @ Mint Leaf Lounge, Bank (Age Range: 35-55) *Free Welcome Drink*
**\*\*THIS IS NOT A FREE EVENT & RSVP ON MEET UP DOES NOT GUARANTEE ENTRY\*\***
**TO ATTEND THIS EVENT A TICKET MUST BE PURCHSED FROM OUR WEBSITE. PLEASE CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE A TICKET:** [https://truedating.co.uk/events/saturday-night-singles-party-14-mar-2026](https://truedating.co.uk/events/saturday-night-singles-party-14-mar-2026)
### 💘 London's Most Fun Way to Meet Real Singles – No Swiping Required! 💘
**Hosted by True Dating– London's #1 Speed Dating & Singles Party Experts**
If you’re tired of endless swiping, awkward DM convos, and dating apps that go nowhere… this is your sign to shake things up.
Welcome to **True Dating’s Singles Party** – where London’s most eligible, outgoing singles meet *in real life* for a night of laughter, chats, connections... and maybe even a first date that turns into your last first date.
### So what exactly *is* a Singles Party?
It’s simple:
✅ A room full of friendly, professional singles
✅ A free welcome drink before 8.30pm to break the ice
✅ Balanced ratio of men/women
✅ And plenty of opportunities to spark something real
We’ve hosted **hundreds of events** across London and helped **thousands of people** meet their match. No awkward setups, no cheesy games—just a relaxed, buzzing atmosphere where genuine connections happen.
### Why you should come:
* **Everyone’s in the same boat.** Seriously. Tired of apps? So is everyone else here.
* **Real conversations, real chemistry.** Way better than text banter and filtered selfies.
* **You’ll actually meet people.** Like... face-to-face. Revolutionary, we know.
* **Your next drink could lead to your next date.** Just make sure you get there before 8.30pm!
### How it works:
After the event, you’ll receive login details for your **True Dating account** to select your matches from the night.
If they select you too – boom! You’ll be able to chat securely via our private messaging system and set up that all-important date #2. (Just be sure to make your matches by 4pm the next day!
### “But what if I don’t click with anyone?”
We’re so confident you’ll meet someone you'd want to see again that **if you don’t, your next event is FREE.** No strings, no stress.
### Event Info:
🕒 Doors open at **8.pm**
🍸 Free welcome drink if you arrive before 8.30pm
📍 Ask for **True Dating** at the venue entrance and we’ll guide you to your reserved area
🎟️ **Tickets are limited** and most events sell out – don’t wait!
👉 **Stop Swiping. Start Dating.**
66% OFF (£5)! BIG Singles Social at Home Grown Members Club! All Ages!
Hostess: Ana
\*This event is a collaboration with other meetup groups and social networks and it will be well attended
\*To attend this event you need to buy a ticket from
[https://www.fatsoma.com/e/ljwnrfgq/big-singles-social-at-home-grown-members-club-all-ages-welcome](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/ljwnrfgq/big-singles-social-at-home-grown-members-club-all-ages-welcome)
Join us to at the first event of the year, socialise like a royal, in an elegant and relaxed singles mix and mingle while enjoying luscious cocktails at the most exclusive venue!
The event will not have any loud music, making the environment perfect for meaningful long conversations that will allow you to connect with the other attendees and get to know them!
Whether you are looking for a partner or just to meet and connect with
other people who are at the same phase of life, this the event for you!
You never know who you meet in this evening and that is the beauty of it!
You may find a friend forever, a party buddy, a partner in crime or a
partner in life!
Since this is a mix and mingle and not a speed dating there is no age range- in a social pool everybody is welcome and you can choose to speak to whoever you fancy.
Connect with like minded people and open your social circle, enjoy
chatting about anything and everything, with those you like, for as long as you like while sipping on the best cocktails in town made by award-
winning mixologists.
If you find somebody who you think you have a connection with, dare to
ask their contact details right then and there... like the old times ;)
Oh! and you don't need to ask the awkward question: 'so are you single?'
because they all will be!
You are welcome to arrive solo- most people do- or with friends, we will
be there to welcome you, make you feel comfortable and act as the
perfect glue among those who wish to. Attendees from past events always feel welcome and energised after our events. Our reputation says that we make the best events in London - so come and check by yourself!
Home Grown is the private members’ club, not open usually to the public, set in a stunning six story Georgian building in the heart of Marylebone and part of the Home House Collection which exudes quality, sophistication and style.
Hosting our event at Home Grown members club, with its home away-from-home atmosphere, is everything you could possibly want on a Saturday evening
This is a unique opportunity to visit the venue which should not be missed!
How to find us: When you arrive please come on the first floor . Any issue on the night feel free to contact Ana: 07801038091 or Marianna: 07949526733
Please Note:
-Tickets need to be bought online and are not available at the door
-Tickets are valid for entry till midnight
-Dress code: Smart/ Elegant/Glamorous ( ripped jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, sportwear, sportshoes or trainers are not allowed)
-A valid proof of ID (European Passport, Driving License, or Passport) is required upon arrival independently of the age for security reasons
For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733
How to connect with us:
Like and follow our facebook page:
[https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland](https://www.facebook.com/mariannaland)
Join our facebook group:
[ https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514](https://www.facebook.com/groups/453202104877514)
Follow us on twitter:@Mariannasevents
Cocktails Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Sailing Taster Day (2)
***PLEASE NOTE:*** *Signup for our events must be made through the London Sailing Club website, and not via Meetup - [click here to register](https://www.londonsailing.club/Events/Calendar/View?id=201). If you are not already a member of the club you will need to become a full or social member which you can do [by clicking here](https://www.londonsailing.club/Registration/Register?isSlotReAssignment=False).*
(Depart from / Return to Port Hamble Marina)
**London Sailing Club Taster Day**
Have you been along to one of our socials and heard about our sailing trips, or seen club trips advertised on Meetup or our club's website, but you're not quite sure whether it's for you? Here is your chance to try out sailing with the club without committing to a multi-day trip. We're sure you're going to love it out on the water with us, and will want to come out with us again!
For insurance reasons all participants in club trips must be adults and full members of the club (annual membership fee is £24). We're confident you will have a great time and will want to come and sail with us again, but we're happy to refund your membership fee if, after your taster day, you decide membership is not for you.
Membership benefits include the ability to join sailing trips in the UK, the Mediterranean and other European destinations, sailing skills weekends, lots of varied social events, free online Theory classes, access to our "Take The Helm" coaching programme to help you develop practical skippering experience after obtaining Day Skipper, special discounts on occasional RYA training from accredited schools, and up to 15% discount on bareboat chartering with partner companies.
*Taster Day Plan*
We will meet at Port Hamble Marina at 9am for introductions and a safety briefing aboard the yacht. Parking is available at the marina. We'll aim to set off before 10am to make the most of a day sailing on the Solent. Depending on the weather and the wind we might drop anchor for lunch, after which we'll make our way back to Port Hamble Marina and be off the boats around 4.00pm. Participants are welcome to stay on for drinks in the marina bar where they will likely meet other club members.
If getting to Port Hamble by 9am is likely to be difficult, you are welcome to stay on the yacht the night before for an additional £20. Accommodation is in shared double cabins, though if fewer than 3 people request this option you may well have your own cabin.
First time sailors may wish to [take a look at our list of FAQs](https://www.londonsailing.club/Cms/Spaces/DEFAULT/FAQs+for+firsttime+sailors) and we also have a [recommended kit list](https://www.londonsailing.club/Cms/Spaces/DEFAULT/Recommended+kit+lists+for+sailing+trips).
*Yachts*
We have chartered a 37ft yacht and will sail with a maximum of six. We want everyone to have enough space and a proper chance to be involved in the sailing. If you’re new to yachting, you’ll be pleased to know the boats have heating, hot/cold running water, a bathroom, a kitchen with a fridge, and more than enough electricity to charge your phone!
*Skippers & First Mates*
The crew will be led by one of LSC's fantastic and experienced skippers and depending on the level of experience on board we may also have a First Mate from the club's Take The Helm programme.
*Kit*
No special or expensive sailing kit required! Just bring practical footwear and clothing to suit the weather forecast. Lifejackets are provided. Foul weather gear can be hired locally if needed. Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen and a change of clothes if the forecast suggests it!
If you are staying on the boat you should bring a sleeping bag and pillow as no bedding is provided. The marina has shoreside showers and toilets, so you are not restricted to using the more limited facilities on board the boat.
*Cost*
This is a non-commercial trip run on a shared-cost basis. The cost is £90 per person (not including the annual membership fee for which you pay separately), which covers the yacht charter, fuel, marina fees, lunch, snacks, and soft drinks on board during the taster day, as well as a £5 contribution to the club's Muck Up Fund which allows us to help skippers on club trips manage the risk of accidental damage caused by trip participants. It doesn’t cover getting yourself to/from the trip or any meals or drinks on shore. We ask for the full amount up front to secure your place. Accommodation on board the night before is available separately at an additional £20.
Note that, because this trip is being advertised via the London Sailing Club’s platforms, any participant who is not already a full member of the Club (which costs £24 per year) will need to join prior to the start of the trip. We're sure you're going to love sailing with us and will want to come along on more trips, but if you decide that you don't want to sail with us after your taster day we will refund your membership fee.
London Sailing Club Ts and Cs apply.
IMPRESSIVE ICONIC ROOFTOP SOCIAL! Mix & Mingle! DJ set! Panoramic views
**Treat yourself to a vibrant social Saturday evening** **with unparalleled views from the 25th floor in this exclusive, iconic rooftop! BOOK VIA THESE LINKS: https://fatso.ma/3peq *KINDLY RSVP TOO - CASH PAYMENTS & WALK INS ARE NOT PERMITTED IN THIS OCCASION***
if any issues with the link at all, promptly contact ELENI please.
We are privileged to have ensured a private booking to the newest addition in London's 5\* cocktail bar and fine dining on the 25th floor of the most iconic building in Shoreditch, L'Art Hotel.
**Socialise in style in this impressive rooftop with a panoramic background. Mix, mingle, and make connections as the DJ set uplifts our mood and kickstart the Saturday night in joy!**
**Seize the opportunity to enrich your social life and why not, trust in perfect synchronicities of the right people at the right time and place getting together.**
**Make new friends, enjoy interesting conversations, perhaps meet that someone special that can make your heart sing or simply go out & about London, indulging in masterpiece handcrafted cocktails and mocktails with a truly photogenic background.**
**Catch up with who you may have met in previous events and interact with all attendees.**
**Present yourself with the best smile on your face, set the vibe, see it reflected back to you!**
**This is a hosted event where you can get FRIENDLY and SOCIAL, get** **introduced** **to like minded** **people of various** **backgrounds** **and see what** **happens** **next!**
**HOW TO FIND :**
**-Come to L'art Hotel Shoreditch and ask to be shown to the lift to the 25th floor, to SOLAYA LONDON BAR.**
**-Once you reach the host upstairs, PLEASE ASK FOR ELENI'S BOOKING!**
***-Please arrive from 20:00 to 20:15 or so as we have a specific time slot for this event and you can be in the flow of the introductions.***
**ELENI is hosting this meet-up arrangement, making sure all guests are welcomed, introduced to each other and included throughout the evening, in our semi-private, with access to the terrace.**
London's most photogenic Rooftop bar, a well kept secret, with stunning views, amazing handcrafted cocktails, mocktails, delicious food and ultra chic decoration for an evening to remember.
***Dress code: Smart for a 5\* venue. Sportswear is not permitted.***
***The venue reserves the right of admission. In case you are declined because of dress code or any other reason as per the venue's guidelines, this ticket is non refundable.***
Refunds only in case of the event being cancelled
Cocktails Events Near You
Connect with your local Cocktails community
☘️ St. Patrick’s Celebration at Kalypso’s Sports Tavern ☘️
Social Sips & Bites family - it’s time to wear your green and bring your Irish spirit.
We’re heading to Kalypso’s Tavern for a St. Patrick’s celebration packed with festive vibes, great company, and special deals on food and drinks.
What to expect:
• Irish favorites like corned beef & cabbage
• Shepherd’s pie and other hearty classics
• Guinness specials
• A lively crowd and that classic SSB energy
Whether you’re coming for the food, the drinks, or just the fun, this is one of those nights you don’t want to miss.
Come hungry. Come social. Let’s turn Kalypso’s green together. 🍀
Cocktails & Coloring @ Ballston Market food market, Basement level
Come the whole time or if you just spend 30 minutes. All are welcome.
You are welcome and encouraged to bring your own coloring supplies but, if you don't have any, I will have plenty and am happy to share! (coloring books, colored pencils, and markers).
Part of the mission of this group is to provide us an opportunity to check out AND SUPPORT local businesses. So, please don't bring any outside food/drinks and, while purchasing something isn't at all a REQUIREMENT to participate in the event, I do strongly encourage you to try something from the vendor :)
I look forward to seeing and meeting you there!
***\*\*DISCLAIMER*\*\*** Photos may be taken during the event to be shared here on Meetup so feel free to let me know if you'd like to be excluded from them.
A Night Out at the Salsa Room! Ladies get in FREE till 11pm💃🏻 Men $20 cover
Ladies, get ready to light up the dance floor, ladies' Enjoy **FREE entry** until 11pm, Join as we turn up the heat with electrifying salsa beats, irresistible rhythms, and a vibe you won’t forget.
Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to have fun, this is the perfect night to let loose with your squad. Grab your friends, slip into your dancing shoes, and join us for an unforgettable evening at *The Salsa Room*!
* no partner required, beginners welcome.
* Dress to Impress, no sneakers, no baseball hats
* Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Cumbia
* Lessons 830-1030pm, its CLUB STYLE 2 floors of dancing!
**DJ spinning the hottest Latin tracks**
**Ladies get in FREE UNTIL 11PM**
\*\* For men the cover charge is $20
Don’t miss out, see you on the dance floor!
\*Doors open at 8 PM.
Murals & Mingling: DMV Singles Cocktail Social (40-58)
Ever heard of a bar that has an art/mural gallery built in? Come join for a night enjoying craft cocktails, beer and wine while enjoying the ambience or checking out the art at WHINO. This event is to meet people ages 40-58 grab drinks and food, and enjoy the ambience
**How to RSVP**
[RSVP HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/murals-mingling-dmv-singles-cocktail-social-whino-40-58-tickets-1984381427267?aff=oddtdtcreator)
**Where to find us**
I have a reserved space with a couple tables and standing area near the bar to serve as the main hub for us.
**About the venue**
WHINO is a 6,200-square-foot restaurant, combined with an art gallery on the second floor of the new Ballston Quarter. It features art work from local artists, a wide array of cocktails and small plates in a modern open-concept setting.
**Directions and Parking**
\* WHINO is located between Macy's and the bridge that leads to the Ballston Metro Station on the second floor of the mall. It’s a [short walk from Ballston metro]
\* Daily, 24-hour parking is available in the Ballston Public Parking Garage which is located at 627 N. Glebe Road.
\* Parking is only $1 (after 6:00pm) for the whole night. Parking level three (G3) leads to the same level WHINO is located.
Get your Japanese Curry and Ramen fix at Karé Bar in Chantilly!
Join us for the fabulous curry, ramen, and more at ***Karé Bar*** in Chantilly!
***From Northern Virginia Magazine:***
Some of the best dishes in the world are fairly recent innovations. The Vietnamese banh mi, for example, appeared only in the 1950s thanks to the introduction of the French baguette in Ho Chi Minh City and the innovative thinking of the Le family. Japanese curry is a bit older, tracing back to the late 19th century, when British sailors enchanted with well-spiced Indian sauces brought those traditions back to another part of Asia. Eventually, Korea also created its own adaptation of the thick, flavorful gravy.
Score another one for the global food community. Actually, score two. Kare Bar opened in Chantilly on Metrotech Drive, making it easy to head to Shilla Bakery or Chateau de Chantilly after lunch or dinner. Score three?
Of course, I wouldn’t be keeping score at all if the food weren’t excellent. It is, as is the caring service and bright atmosphere. Start with something uniquely Japanese like monkfish liver with ponzu or a grilled hamachi collar, or stick to an old reliable like the juicy chicken or seafood dumplings, united by a crispy lacework of fried skirt.
I tried both the Japanese and Korean curries. The latter is labeled as “spicy” on the menu, but didn’t seem to have any more heat than the Japanese curry. I recommend sticking to the Japanese sauce for its more robust flavor. Order it with the meaty, crispy donkatsu (pork cutlet curry) or the hamburger steak curry, essentially a well-seared dish of Salisbury steak.
Whichever curry you order, it will come with sticky rice topped with a crisp-edged over-easy egg and a slew of veggies, ready to be drenched in curry. A shredded cabbage salad is bathed in an exceptionally appealing creamy sesame dressing.
As winter sets in, there are few more fulfilling meals than a rib-sticking curry. This is the place that will keep you feeling like there’s no need to hibernate.
Check out menu [here](https://karebar.com/our-menu/)
**WAITLIST:**
Meetup does not allow a waitlist for paid events. If this event fills and you are interested in adding your name to the waitlist, please send host a message through the app.
To enhance the opportunity for great conversation, we would like to keep the group small. Please feel free to sign-up to meet us along with up to 2 friends.
In the future, we will vary the days of the week, geography and the cost of restaurants so that we can attract many different types of diners.
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU ARE COMMITTED TO GO WHEN YOU RSVP FOR THIS EVENT. In the event our group incurs a fee for no-shows / late cancellations, your ability to RSVP for future events will be restricted. Thank you in advance for your understanding.Feel free to make suggestions for future meet locations. All diners will have their own tab to avoid any confusion.
\*\* The small non-refundable registration fee helps us share the cost associated with Meetup platform ($360/year) and reduces the likelihood of no-shows, allowing us to better plan our events and accommodate attendees. Thank you in advance for your understanding!\*\*
If you are unable to join us in March, we hope you'll stay interested and join us for a meal in the future. Looking forward to seeing you at Karé Bar in Chantilly!
Lockhouse Stay - Pennyfield Lock to Seneca Quarry / Swains Lock (14.2 miles)
Let's continue exploring the historic lockhouses along the C&O Canal, this time staying in a primitive one -- Pennyfield Lock, located by Lock 22. As this is a primitive lockhouse there are NO modern amenities (running water, electricity, heat, or kitchen), and so you will need to bring everything you need to stay comfortable during this one-night stay. We can enjoy some easy hikes along the towpath and through the nearby Blockhouse Point Conservation Park during our visit.
Due to the location of the lockhouse, a carpooling spot has not been established. A WhatsApp group will be created closer to the event and will be used to coordinate rides and other event logistics. We will plan to meet at the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning.
## **Trail Facts**
* **Difficulty Level:** Moderate
* **Length:** 14.2 Miles
* **Duration:** 4.5-5.5 hrs
* **Elevation Gain:** 506 Feet
* **Permits:** Juanatán will provide overnight parking permits to drivers.
* **Parking:** Carpooling will be coordinated via WhatsApp.
* **Dogs:** Not allowed inside the lockhouse, sorry.
* **Trailhead Coordinates:** 39.05497688136813, -77.29032396969912
* **AllTrails Maps**:
* https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-af4793c?u=i&sh=kucj8c
* https://www.alltrails.com/explore/custom-routes/custom-route-9e94313?u=i&sh=kucj8c
**Trail Details:**
We will arrive at the parking lot near the lockhouse at 11:00 AM on Saturday morning. We won't be able to check in, so we will go on a hike to Seneca Quarry, where we can explore some old structures that used to be part of the canal system. We will take a slightly different route back through Blockhouse Point Conservation Park. By then we will be ready to check in to the lockhouse.
Everyone will need to carry their gear 0.1 miles from the parking lot to the lockhouse. There is no kitchen inside and no running water, so keep that in mind when planning dinner. We can all relax, perhaps play some games, and check out the lockhouse.
Closer to nightfall we will go on a short 3-mile hike to Swains Lock where we can enjoy a nice view of the sunset. We will then hike 3 miles back in the dark to the lockhouse and perhaps play games or enjoy a fire before bed.
The next morning everyone is on their own for breakfast. Keep in mind that we need to clean up and be out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM.
The maximum capacity of the lockhouse is eight people. Depending on who signs up it may be necessary to rearrange the provided trundle beds or bring sleeping pads so we can spread out and make sure everyone has a comfortable sleeping arrangement. You can learn more about the lockhouse [here](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/).
Since this is a rustic lockhouse, I will only need $10 from each participant to cover the cost of the reservation. I accept PayPal, Venmo, and cash. :)
I'm looking forward to this relaxing trip. Please let me know if you have any questions.
**Saturday Itinerary:**
* 11:00 AM: Meet at the trailhead, start hiking.
* 3:00 PM: Check into the lockhouse, get set up, eat, play games, etc.
* 6:00 PM: Hike to Swains Lock, enjoy the sunset, hike back.
* 9:00 PM: Potentially enjoy a fire or simply go to bed.
**Sunday Itinerary:**
* Everyone can get up whenever they want to, keeping in mind that we need to clean up and check out of the lockhouse no later than 10:00 AM.
**LIABILITY NOTICE:**
Please remember that this group operates under the common adventurer model. We are a group of friends and volunteers organizing trips for fun and shared experience. Participants are expected to be familiar with best hiking practices and choose hikes that align with their physical abilities and experience. Organizers and members are not liable for any injuries, loss, or damage to persons or property arising from group activities. By attending this event, you agree to assume all risks associated with the activity.
For more information on the common adventurer model, please see [Ron Watters' definition](https://www.ronwatters.com/CADefine.htm).
If you believe you may be lost during the hike, follow the advice of the [US Forest Service](https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-you-go/if-you-get-lost).
See you on the trail!
**[Featured Image Source](https://www.canaltrust.org/lockhouse-22/)**
Exploring Ethiopian Culture Through Cuisine at Enatye
Food is one of the most meaningful ways to experience culture — and Ethiopian cuisine is rooted in community, tradition, and bold, layered flavors.
Join the Global Food & Culture group as we gather at Enatye Ethiopian Restaurant to explore traditional dishes served on injera. If you’re open to sharing, we can create a few shared platters so everyone can sample a variety of dishes — but individual ordering is perfectly fine too.
Enatye is a small restaurant and does not make reservations so they recommended the 2-4 pm time frame. We’re initially capping this at 12 guests to keep the experience comfortable and conversational. If interest is strong and the restaurant can accommodate, we may open additional spots. The good news is that they will bill each of us separately!
Come hungry. Come curious. And come ready to connect around the table.

















