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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out mississauga events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
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Mississauga Events Today
Join in-person Mississauga events happening right now
Mississauga- let’s speak French/ Parlons français
Let’s get together to speak French! We’ll enjoy tea/coffee and some icebreaker games. Everyone is welcome.
Venez parler français!
À bientôt,
Hassane.
\*Merci beaucoup de vous être inscrit(e) à notre prochaine rencontre! Nous sommes ravis de votre présence.
Afin de permettre à d’autres de se joindre à nous, nous vous demandons respectueusement :
1. **Si vos plans changent,** veuillez mettre à jour votre statut (passer à 'Non') le plus rapidement possible pour libérer votre place.
2. **Si vous êtes sur la liste d'attente,** merci de ne pas vous présenter à l'événement. Votre statut doit être confirmé pour pouvoir participer. Veuillez vous inscrire directement aux prochaines dates disponibles.
Au plaisir de vous accueillir!
\*To allow others to join us, we respectfully ask that you:
* **If your plans change,** please update your RSVP status (change it to 'No') as quickly as possible to free up your spot.
* **If you are on the waiting list,** please do not show up for the event. Your status must be confirmed to participate. Instead, please register directly for the next available dates.
IMPORTANT:
Veuillez noter que pour profiter pleinement de nos échanges, une aptitude de base à la conversation est vivement souhaitée : ce groupe est un cercle de discussion convivial et non un cours de langue.
Please note that to fully enjoy the experience, a basic speaking aptitude is recommended: this group is a social conversation circle, not a formal teaching class.
We look forward to welcoming you!
Please join our WhatsApp group:
https://chat.whatsapp.com/LRUdXbjpG8I9aph4dU6Go8
(Port Credit Arena) Improv Acting Drop-In
**Directions to the Room:**
To find the room, once in Port Credit Arena at the main entrance, go up the stairs, room is on the left. Room is labelled Credit Room South.
**Age: 18+**
**Event Description:**
This is an informal improv workshop where we get together to play games and scenes similar to those in Whose Line is it Anyways: https://youtu.be/KF3D2TMUhN8. If you want to boost your acting chops or are just looking for some silly fun, this is the place to be!
There are usually 10-20 people. The session starts with introductions, followed by group games then finishes with audience/performance sessions. Max capacity is 30 and spots are held based on how soon you sign up. See you there!
**Payment**
The price is $10 per person (interac only!) to help cover the costs of running the event. I can only accept interac e-transfer since at Mississauga facilities I'm not allowed to take cash.
We start by 7:10 please make sure to come on time.
P.S - We usually grab dinner/drinks at one of Port Credit's fabulous nearby bars or restaurants after the session. Everyone's welcome!
FUNDRAISER FOR AUTISM
fundraiser for autism
feb 1 2025
JJQ BILLIARS AND LOUNGE
DUNDAS ST WEST
WINSTON CHURCHILL AND DUNDAS
IN THE MANDERIN PLAZA
MISSISSAUGA , ONTARIO
BORDER OF OAKVILLE
40 BUY IN
REBUYS
TOP UP
Walk & Chat Group for Men & Women - Erindale Park
# Friday Walk & Chat Group
You asked and I delivered.
Join us each Friday for an energizing **Walking & Chat** event where movement meets connection. This is a great way to boost your health, clear your mind, and meet other positive members in the community.
Walking regularly can improve heart health, increase energy, reduce stress, and support overall wellness.
Our walk is done at a **good steady pace** with a bit of a hill, making it a great workout while still being enjoyable. The route usually lasts **about 1.5 hours**, giving you time to move, chat, and start your day feeling accomplished.
I also encourage everyone to get to know fellow members by chatting with different people throughout the walk. When we circle back to the parking lot, I often invite members to switch walking partners so everyone has the chance to connect and build new friendships.
Come ready to move, connect, and enjoy the benefits of fitness and friendship.
**Everyone is welcome!**
Start Time: 6:30 Sharp
*Event: Exercise -* **Walk starts promptly at 6:30 ensure to arrive a few minutes early!**
**Location: [Erindale Park 1695 Dundas St. West Mississauga, ON L5C 1J4](https://www.google.com/maps/dir/1695+Dundas+St+W,+Mississauga,+ON+L5C+1E3/@43.5495525,-79.7368215,12z/data=!4m7!4m6!1m5!1m1!1s0x882b43fd0a7e4059:0xa09794082a5f2250!2m2!1d-79.6544208!2d43.5495821?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDUyMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D)**
Investment: FREE
**Meeting Area:** I will be at the 1st parking lot by the ice cream truck . I will have a name tag on (Patricia)
**What to Bring:**
* Dress for the weather – layers, hats, sunscreen, etc.
* Water bottle
* Ensure to wear comfortable walking shoes
It’s a great way to start your weekend—getting active, meeting new people, and sharing good conversations. I do encourage to switch
FYI the park has a public washroom
Bring your smile and enjoy connecting with fellow members in a welcoming and friendly space.
**Note:** This event is **weather permitting** if it rains etc. the event will be cancelled – please ensure to check the site for updates will be posted.
Prior to attending the event ensure to check the forecast and dress accordingly.
BIG HUGS
Patricia Lavigne
Life & Wellness Coach
416-312-6983
Arts and Culture Social Mixer
I am hosting a social drinks night for GTA Art lovers, business professionals and entrepreneurs to mingle and connect.
When you enter the venue let one of the bar staff know you are there for the event - ask for Frank.
Our reservation will be at main bar
Come out and socialize with other GTA Art lovers, business professionals and entrepreneurs over drinks!
We have over 7 meetup groups invited to this event so this won't be a small crowd.
Remember to bring your business cards as this is a networking event.
This event is FREE to attend, food and drinks are at your own cost.
Please purchase 1 drink to support the venue.
We will have name tags for everyone and encourage people to mingle.
\*\*\* FREE BUSINESS CARD RAFFLE DRAW - PRIZE $20.00 LCBO GIFT CARD. \*\*\*
Please follow us on social media:
Facebook/TikTok: @TorontoSocialMixer
Twitter/Instagram: @TOSocialMixer
Photos/videos of our previous events have been uploaded to our social media links.
Come Dancing!! - Showcase & Social Night
Come Dancing!!
Come join us for a fun evening of social dancing and entertainment. Meet some of your fellow dance enthusiasts and cheer on some of our students who have been working on showing off some of their moves.
Doors Open at 7pm.
Fun music, social dancing, line dancing and more!
Snacks and refreshments and great company on hand:)
Only $25+tx pp.
Come on your own or with a friend. All are welcome.
Christ First Church Auditorium
1700 Mazo Cresc Mississauga, ON
Let's get social and enjoy our shared love of music and dancing together.💃
To RSVP get in touch with Karen at events@comedancing.ca or 647-609-3933
www.comedancing.ca
BOARDGAME FRIDAY
Join us for our new spring series for 2026 - BOARDGAME FRIDAY!
This is a great place to meet new people, make new friends and play some fun games. Come with a group or by yourself!
There will be games like Catan, Avalon, Ticket to Ride, Uno, Monopoly, Cards Against Humanity and more!
**The restaurant, Aifam, will be giving out a free alcoholic drink of your choice (Wine or Beer) with the purchase of each sandwich!**
Address: 102 Harbord St, Toronto, ON M5S 1G6
**This event has an entry fee of $15 to be paid via cash or e-transfer. If you purchase any food at the venue the entry fee reduces to $12.5!**
**Looking forward to hosting this!**
Mississauga Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Beginner Bellydance Class
Join Deb for Beginner Bellydance every Sunday at 2:30PM at D2R Studio, Mississauga!
No experience needed — just bring your hips, your energy and Let’s move.
Learn from a professional, experienced teacher in a spacious, welcoming studio. 💜
#BellydanceMississauga
(647) 202-6236
Ping Pong ( Table Tennis ) Sat. May 23rd 2:30 pm
Please read to the end.....
Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at playing Ping Pong.
Sure Pickle Ball is all the rage yet Ping Pong is a unique experience and is safer, however, it's a little more challenging yet easy to learn while meeting new friends.
Whether you're a good player or just looking to have a good time, this event is for you! We will team you up with those equal to your skill level from Beginners to Intermediate. We will start with practise for a half hour before team play begins.
Remember, we play for fun.
You will get in lots of table time with a 3 hour event.
I was fortunate enough to have a Ping Pong table in our basement growing up. With 3 other brothers we had some serious rivalries going on.
The more you play the better you get.
My youngest brother mastered the art of spinning his return shot to make it very difficult on how you played your next return volley.
Arrive 10 - 15 minutes before...a chance to meet 'n greet your fellow players.
**Event fee $25** Bring exact cash or e-transfer 2 days before the event otherwise it's Cash on the day of the event.
This is a 3 hour event. Play begins at 2:30 pm
**Join the Draw** \- You can E\-Transfer your payment to \[[robin.dc@hotmail.com](mailto:robin.dc@hotmail.com)]([mailto:robin.dc@hotmail.com](http://mailto:robin.dc@hotmail.com))
Payment in advance ( e-transfer ) then send a second e-mail with password, along with contact info - name, e-mail address & group signed up to so we can contact the Winner of the draw.
Your name will be added to the Draw held on July 3rd / 2026 The prize is a **$50 Ultimate Dining Card**. ( More than 10 Restaurants ) The more times you advance pay, the more times your names goes into the Draw.
All are welcome regardless of skill level. We can give you tips and advice to better your play. We play for fun though the skilled players can team up with other advance players when Team play starts.
**Note** \- Please remove your name if you realize you cannot attend this event so others waiting can sign up\. **No Shows are being tracked.** Miss 3 events by No Show and you will be eliminated from the groups.
**Please honour your commitment by showing up.**
I will be supplying **Paddles and Balls** as the cost of renting these items is expensive. You are welcome to bring your own paddle.
You can Bring a Water Bottle or purchase water for 50 cents.
**Shoes required** \- non marking running shoes with white or light coloured soles preferred\. \( black / dark soles are not appropriate \)
No outdoor winter shoes / boots allowed - bring your tennis / running shoes and change at the entrance area.
**Location** \- See Map for full details \- Harmony Table Tennis \- 5570 Kennedy Road South\, Mississauga\, L4Z 2A9 Turn into the driveway when you see **Salvation Ministries** sign on the front of the building on the **West** side of the road which is the **Second Driveway North** of **Matheson Blvd. East.** Then Turn in front of that building and down what looks like an alley between two buildings. Harmony is the back building. Parking is on both sides of the buildings and in front of Salvation Ministries.
( Tip - From the 401 Hwy Use 403 South to Eglinton Ave. East Exit ramp then come up Kennedy to Matherson Blvd East. )
Note - Avoid using Hurontario Street as it is under construction for Streetcar lines.
**Parking** is free.
**Address** \- Harmony Table Tennis \- 5570 Kennedy Road\, Mississauga\, On\. L4Z 2A9
FUNDRAISER FOR AUTISM
fundraiser for autism
feb 1 2025
JJQ BILLIARS AND LOUNGE
DUNDAS ST WEST
WINSTON CHURCHILL AND DUNDAS
IN THE MANDERIN PLAZA
MISSISSAUGA , ONTARIO
BORDER OF OAKVILLE
40 BUY IN
REBUYS
TOP UP
Ping Pong ( Table Tennis Event - Sat. May 23rd 2:30 pm
Please read to the end.....
Join us for a fun-filled afternoon at playing Ping Pong.
Sure Pickle Ball is all the rage yet Ping Pong is a unique experience and is safer, however, it's a little more challenging yet easy to learn while meeting new friends.
Whether you're a good player or just looking to have a good time, this event is for you! We will team you up with those equal to your skill level from Beginners to Intermediate. We will start with practise for a half hour before team play begins.
Remember, we play for fun.
You will get in lots of table time with a 3 hour event.
I was fortunate enough to have a Ping Pong table in our basement growing up. With 3 other brothers we had some serious rivalries going on.
The more you play the better you get.
My youngest brother mastered the art of spinning his return shot to make it very difficult on how you played your next return volley.
Arrive 10 - 15 minutes before...a chance to meet 'n greet your fellow players.
**Event fee $25** Bring exact cash or e-transfer 2 days before the event otherwise it's Cash on the day of the event.
This is a 3 hour event. Play begins at 2:30 pm
**Join the Draw** \- You can E\-Transfer your payment to \[[robin.dc@hotmail.com](mailto:robin.dc@hotmail.com)]
Payment in advance ( e-transfer ) then send a second e-mail with password, along with contact info - name, e-mail address & group signed up to so we can contact the Winner of the draw.
Your name will be added to the Draw held on July 3rd / 2026 The prize is a **$50 Ultimate Dining Card**. ( More than 10 Restaurants ) The more times you advance pay, the more times your names goes into the Draw.
All are welcome regardless of skill level. We can give you tips and advice to better your play. We play for fun though the skilled players can team up with other advance players when Team play starts.
**Note** \- Please remove your name if you realize you cannot attend this event so others waiting can sign up\. **No Shows are being tracked.** Miss 3 events by No Show and you will be eliminated from the groups.
**Please honour your commitment by showing up.**
I will be supplying **Paddles and Balls** as the cost of renting these items is expensive. You are welcome to bring your own paddle.
You can Bring a Water Bottle or purchase water for 50 cents.
**Shoes required** \- non marking running shoes with white or light coloured soles preferred\. \( black / dark soles are not appropriate \)
No outdoor winter shoes / boots allowed - bring your tennis / running shoes and change at the entrance area.
**Location** \- See Map for full details \- Harmony Table Tennis \- 5570 Kennedy Road South\, Mississauga\, L4Z 2A9 Turn into the driveway when you see **Salvation Ministries** sign on the front of the building on the **West** side of the road which is the **Second Driveway North** of **Matheson Blvd. East.** Then Turn in front of that building and down what looks like an alley between two buildings. Harmony is the back building. Parking is on both sides of the buildings and in front of Salvation Ministries.
( Tip - From the 401 Hwy Use 403 South to Eglinton Ave. East. Exit ramp then come up Kennedy to Matherson Blvd East. )
Note - Avoid using Hurontario Street as it is under construction for Streetcar lines.
**Parking** is free.
**Address** \- Harmony Table Tennis \- 5570 Kennedy Road\, Mississauga\, On\. L4Z 2A9
The Lakeshore Psychiatric Hospital and Camp M (Special Extended Tour)
\*\***The Toronto History Walks Yearly Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email**
**torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**
**for more information or for signing up!\*\***
\*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:**
**torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**
Elizabeth Simcoe named the area now known as Mimico for the thousands of pigeons that blackened the sky at the western end of the settlement. Mimico was originally located at the confluence of Mimico Creek and Dundas Street.
William Gamble, opened a sawmill and built a settlement for the workers nearby. Etobicoke's first church, Christ Church was opened on Church Street which became Royal York Road. Mimico is a walkable neighbourhood and a great place to stroll and discover our amazing history.
The Lakeshore Hospital was built in 1888 as the Mimico Asylum, its doors opened on January 21, 1889.
The original idea for the hospital was a series of cottages designed by Doctor Joseph Workman who wanted a resort type feel to the hospital. The architect was Kivas Tully, who worked with gardener Samuel Matheson. Most of the buildings were built by the patients themselves, and helped with laundry duties, and tended to the vast gardens.
But a different story emerged that most Canadians had no idea about. And that was the story of Camp M - Mimico.
In 1887, the Victoria Industrial School for Boys opened on old Horner Avenue in Mimico, just blocks from the site of the new Mimico Hospital for the Insane (Humber College.) The school, which was a juvenile reformatory, hoped to break the bad boys through moral and academic education and old fashioned hard work. I hope there was a positive outcome.
In 1927, the school changed its name to the Mimico Reform School. But it was the war years 1939-1945 that really surprised me as a Torontonian. It was known as Camp M or Internment Camp 22, the largest camp for POWs in the centre of a large Canadian city.
Most camps were constructed in rural areas, and the camp provided space for more than 520 German nationals. The history of this camp is fascinating and had links to the Toronto Central Prison on Strachan Avenue and the Mimico Hospital directly to the south on lakeshore where we begin this tour.
This walking tour is for all levels and walkers. The tour begins at the New Toronto Public Library Branch at 110 Eleventh Street just south of Lakeshore. We end this tour at Kipling and Horner Avenue, just a few blocks to the north of the old hospital!
This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person!
\*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:**
**torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**
🏙️🔭 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: SKYLINE VIEWS & HIDDEN SPACES WALK 🔭🏙️
🏙️🔭 DOORS OPEN TORONTO: SKYLINE VIEWS & HIDDEN SPACES WALK 🔭🏙️
Observation Decks, City Icons & A Once-a-Year Experience
Some places in Toronto you walk past every day… but rarely get to go inside.
This is your chance.
Join us for a special Doors Open Toronto outing, where we’ll explore two of the city’s most iconic buildings — including access to spaces that aren’t usually open to the public.
This event only happens once a year, and it’s one of the best ways to experience the city from a completely different perspective.
This is not a formal tour.
It’s a social outing — with incredible views, a bit of history, and shared discovery.
📲 **Join Our WhatsApp Group:**[ Click here to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/DRFTkxRlHS4B3IL1lMleUd)
***
🏙️ What We’ll Do
We’ll start at TD Bank Tower (66 Wellington St W), part of the Toronto-Dominion Centre — one of the finest examples of modernist architecture in the city, designed by legendary architect Mies van der Rohe.
We’ll head up to the observation area (approximately 223 metres high), where you’ll get a stunning view of Toronto’s skyline from a space that isn’t typically open to the public.
From there, we’ll walk over to Toronto City Hall and visit its observation deck. Opened in 1965 and designed by Finnish architect Viljo Revell, City Hall’s curved twin towers and central council chamber make it one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks.
From above, you’ll get a completely different view of Nathan Phillips Square and the downtown core.
⚠️ Please note: both locations are very popular during Doors Open, so there will likely be wait times. Part of the experience is the buzz and energy of the day.
Afterward, we’ll head over to CF Toronto Eaton Centre for a casual lunch in the food court. 🍔🥗
You’re welcome to join or head out whenever you like.
***
🏛️ What Is Doors Open Toronto?
Doors Open Toronto is a free annual city-wide event that opens the doors to architecturally, historically, and culturally significant buildings across Toronto.
For one weekend, you can explore spaces that are usually closed to the public — from office towers and historic sites to creative and civic spaces.
It’s one of the best ways to connect with the city and see what’s normally hidden in plain sight.
***
🌦️ Weather & Expectations
This event will run rain or shine.
Be prepared for:
✔️ Walking between locations
✔️ Standing in lines
✔️ A busy, energetic atmosphere
Wear comfortable shoes and bring patience — it’s part of the experience.
Also — this is NOT a guided historical tour. I’ll share context casually, but the focus is on exploring together.
***
🧢 Meetup Details
📍 Meetup Location: OutsideI will be on the West/South corner right by the lights and I will be wearing my Moose Hat.
🫎 I’ll be wearing my Moose Hat
⏰ Meetup Time: 9:00 AM
I will only wait 5 minutes. Anyone arriving late can meet us at the first location. We won’t be saving spots in line — it’s important we respect the people around us.
Early is on time.
On time is late.
We’ll head in together.
End Point: Eaton Centre
***
🎟️ Meetup Fee: $5 cash in person or e-transfer to
📧 **mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**
Doors Open is free to attend.
This fee helps support the group and allows us to keep hosting events like this. Thank you for supporting community! 💖
***
🎒 What to Bring
Water
Comfortable walking shoes
Patience for lines ⏳
Weather-appropriate clothing
Optional: cash/card for lunch
***
🌈 Who Is This For?
This group is open to anyone who wants to be social and make friends — whether single or not.
We also host:
🎬 Movies
🚶 Walks & hikes
🎭 Arts & culture outings
🍽️ Restaurant gatherings
There’s always something happening.
***
REMEMBER: You’re welcome to just show up on the day if you’re unsure about your schedule.
And as always, sometimes plans shift and events may need to be canceled — please keep an eye on updates.
***
👤 Organizer: Mathew
Questions? Post on the event wall or email
📧 torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com
Come for the views. Stay for the experience.
Leave having seen parts of the city most people never get to access. 🏙️✨
Mississauga Events Near You
Connect with your local Mississauga community
Columbus Museum of Art, Free Admission Sundays
Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.
Feel Good Friday: POWER BALLAD at the Gateway Film Center + SHAKE NO. 8!
Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor.
BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!”
SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php)
PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show!
Should be a fun one, Dan
Jules and Jim, the Book!
By popular demand, the group wanted to read and discuss the semi-autobiographical novel by Henri-Pierre Roche, that inspired the Truffaut movie we watched last year.
The book is available through the Columbus Library's interlibrary loan system. They reported there are twenty-eight copies available in the state of Ohio. If you have a library card, you can file an interlibrary loan request here: https://www.columbuslibrary.org/library-services/ . There are also used copies available on Amazon and eBay for under twenty dollars.
You may want to rewatch the movie after reading the book, so we can compare and contrast in our discussion. The Columbus Library has four copies on DVD, and it's streaming on HBOMax.
Sunday Afternoon Coffee at Grandview Grind
Who else is ready to sit outside?
Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!
Trails & Ales! Blendon Woods Metro Park / Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
**History**
The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville.
Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people.
As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support.
The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts.
In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks.
**Where We'll Meet**
We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.
The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.
Friday night Social - Central Ohio Friends - 5 years of friends
For the last 5 years, Central Ohio Friends and Columbus Social Connection have teamed up for some incredible nights out and some of the biggest social events in Columbus with our biggest combined event bringing out 80+ people.
⚠️ Please only RSVP through ONE group to help keep headcount accurate.
Now we’re celebrating where it all started.
On Friday, May 22, we’ll be joining Central Ohio Friends 🍻 **Starting at** Brothers Bar & Grill in the Arena District the same place their very first event was held back in 2021.
Whether you’ve been to one of our events before or **have been waiting for the right one to come out to,** this is a great one to jump into.
Stop scrolling. Start doing stuff.
If you find value in these events consider contributing
Link can be found in comments!






















