Music Festivals

Welcome to Toastmasters Business Club Slovenia, a **safe and friendly** place where you can practice your speaking skills and develop leadership skills essential for success in business and career. **What to Expect at Our Meeting** Our meetings are conducted in **English** and follow a dynamic and engaging structure: 1️⃣ Prepared Speeches – Members deliver speeches on any topic they choose. 2️⃣ Impromptu Speaking (Table Topics) – A fun, short-form speaking challenge. New guests are welcome to try it out or simply observe. 3️⃣ Evaluations & Feedback – Speakers receive supportive and helpful feedback to grow. **Optional bonus sessions:** 4️⃣ Ideas to Practice – Mini workshops or demo presentations by members. 5️⃣ Member for Member – A “pitch-style” segment where members (and occasionally guests) can present their ideas, businesses, or projects. Interested in presenting your idea to us? Email us in advance at info@tmbusiness.si. **📍 Location & Time** We meet twice a month, every 1st and 3rd Monday, at: Socialna akademija, Tržaška 132, Ljubljana 🕖 Please arrive by 18:20 so we can get to know you a bit. *How to find us:* Go to the second floor, turn left, and you'll find us at the end of the hallway or watch instructions [here](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/dDnVb0BNnpA). Can’t make it in person? Join us on Zoom: [https://bit.ly/ToastmastersZoom](https://bit.ly/ToastmastersZoom) *Come visit us a few times to see if we’re the right fit for you. Everyone is welcome.* Usually there are between 9-16 people, average being 12. As our motto is "*You win, when you act*", let your voice be heard. See you soon!

🎲 INTERNATIONAL MONDAY BOARD GAME NIGHTS @ Voyager Craft Beer Bar 🍺 Every Monday @ 19:00 \| Voyager Craft Beer Bar Forget the Monday blues. We’re turning the start of the week into a night of strategy, social deduction, and world-class craft beer. Whether you’re a ruthless tactician or just here for the laughs, your seat at the table is waiting. This isn’t just a one-off event—we are building Ljubljana’s premier boardgaming community. Our mission? To make Mondays your favorite night of the week. 👉 Join the Boardgame WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GQ939ioFYXY6pK71oXfh4h 🌍 International & Inclusive We are a global crowd! The primary language of play is English, making this the perfect spot for expats, nomads, and locals to connect. No cliques, no gatekeeping—just good vibes. 🎲 WHAT WE PLAY Mostly fun, social, easy-to-learn games: party games bluffing & social deduction light strategy quick, interactive games Think: laughing, debating, teaming up, betraying your friends 😄 👉 Not super “hardcore nerdy” — but those games are welcome too. Got your own? BRING IT! We encourage you to bring your favorite games from home. Share the games you love with the community. 🍻 Why Voyager? We’ve moved to Voyager Craft Beer Bar for a reason. Great gaming deserves great beer. Swap the basic drafts for premium, independent craft brews while you plot your next move. 💡 How it Works Come Solo or with Friends: Most people show up alone. We’ll get you into a group immediately. 📍 Event Details 📅 When: Every Monday @ 19:00 📍 Where: Voyager Craft Beer Bar 💶 Entry: Free (Support the venue by grabbing a craft beer or a drink!) 👉 Join the Boardgame WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GQ939ioFYXY6pK71oXfh4h Connect with the community beforehand and after the event. Find players for a game you love before Monday arrives. 🌍 Part of Ljubljana International Hosted by the city's biggest international community. Follow us for more: 👉 linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational

🎲 LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL MONDAY BOARD GAME NIGHTS 🍺 @ Voyager Craft Beer Bar \| Every Monday @ 19:00 Forget the Monday blues. We’re turning the start of the week into a night of strategy, social deduction, and world-class craft beer. Whether you’re a ruthless tactician or just here for the laughs, your seat at the table is waiting. This isn’t just a one-off event—we are building Ljubljana’s premier boardgaming community. Our mission? To make Mondays your favorite night of the week. 👉 Join the Boardgame WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GQ939ioFYXY6pK71oXfh4h 🌍 International & Inclusive We are a global crowd! The primary language of play is English, making this the perfect spot for expats, nomads, and locals to connect. No cliques, no gatekeeping—just good vibes. 🎲 WHAT TO EXPECT 15+ players every week 20+ games to choose from 🎲 WHAT WE PLAY Mostly fun, social, easy-to-learn games: party games bluffing & social deduction light strategy quick, interactive games Think: laughing, debating, teaming up, betraying your friends 😄 👉 Not super “hardcore nerdy” — but those games are welcome too. Got your own? BRING IT! We encourage you to bring your favorite games from home. Share the games you love with the community. 🍻 Why Voyager? We’ve moved to Voyager Craft Beer Bar for a reason. Great gaming deserves great beer. Swap the basic drafts for premium, independent craft brews while you plot your next move. 💡 How it Works Come Solo or with Friends: Most people show up alone. We’ll get you into a group immediately. 📍 Event Details 📅 When: Every Monday @ 19:00 📍 Where: Voyager Craft Beer Bar 💶 Entry: Free (Support the venue by grabbing a craft beer or a drink!) 👉 Join the Boardgame WhatsApp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GQ939ioFYXY6pK71oXfh4h Connect with the community beforehand and after the event. Find players for a game you love before Monday arrives. 🌍 Part of Ljubljana International Hosted by the city's biggest international community. Follow us for more: 👉 linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational

💃🌍 LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL GOES DANCING – EVERY THURSDAY Hosted by Ljubljana International Looking for an easy way to meet new people, learn a few dance moves, and enjoy a summer evening in Ljubljana? Join us every Thursday as we combine social drinks with free outdoor dancing in the heart of the city. 📍 LOGISTICS 📅 Every Thursday from June 18 until August 27 ⏰ 19:00 - 23:00 (Join anytime! No need to be on time) 🏢 Meetup: Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center, Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 1, Ljubljana 💃 Dancing: Central Ljubljana Market (near Mesarski Most) 💶 Price: Free 🔄 Type: Weekly recurring event 👥 Vibe: Expected 20+ attendees at the meetup, 70+ people at the dancing event. No strict capacity limit. ⚠️ Event is cancelled in case of rain or severe weather. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🍻 STEP 1: SOCIAL MEETUP From 19:00 we'll gather at Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center for drinks, conversations, and introductions. This is the perfect opportunity to meet people before heading to the dancing together. Whether you're new to Ljubljana or have lived here for years, you'll find a welcoming international crowd. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 💃 STEP 2: DANCING BY THE RIVER At 20:00 we'll walk together to the nearby open-air dance event led by Katarina Venturini, one of Slovenia's most successful dancers and dance teachers. The dancing is free, beginner-friendly, and open to everyone. No partner required. No experience required. Just show up and have fun. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 👥 WHO SHOULD COME? • Internationals • Erasmus students • Expats • Digital nomads • Locals • Beginners • Experienced dancers • Anyone looking to meet new people ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ ✨ WHAT TO EXPECT • New friends • Great conversations • Outdoor summer atmosphere • Dancing in the city center • International crowd • Good music • Zero pressure ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ No need to come on time. Come alone or bring friends — 90% of people arrive solo and leave with new ones. Every event has 10+ nationalities, 30+ people, and zero awkward standing around. We've done this 200+ times. We know how to make you feel at home. Events 6x per week — there’s always something. The most important thing you can do right now: 👉 Join our WhatsApp community of 1,500+ members — this is where Ljubljana actually happens. 👉 https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational ⚠️ WhatsApp Note We auto-reject +1 (US) and +44 (UK) numbers to fight spam. If you have one of those or can’t join, DM us on Instagram @ljubljanainternational and we’ll add you manually. 📍 HOW TO FIND US AT THE VENUE Just join the biggest group! If you have trouble finding us, ask an employee at the venue where the Ljubljana International group is sitting. Or look for the bald guy with a beard and glasses (often wearing a blue polo) who is usually hosting. See you on Thursday. 💃🌍

Ljubljana International: Saturday Night Kickoff 🍻🌍🎉 Make Ljubljana your own. 🌍 We are the city's largest international family with 1,500+ members. Before Ljubljana heads out for the night, we gather for drinks, conversations, and new friendships at the city's most international Saturday meetup. 📍 LOGISTICS 📅 Date: Every Saturday ⏰ Time: 20:00 - 23:00 (Drop in whenever you like) 🏢 Venue: Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center, Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 1, Ljubljana 💶 Price: Free entry 🎟️ Entry: Walk-ins welcome 🔄 Type: Weekly recurring 👥 Vibe: Expected 30–50+ attendees. Friendly, social, international, and energetic. No strict capacity limit. 👤 WHO IT'S FOR Casual, open-minded people aged 18-40 who want fun, new friends, and memorable nights out. Perfect for internationals, Erasmus students, travelers, digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, entrepreneurs, engineers, researchers, and locals who enjoy meeting people from around the world. 70% international, 30% Slovenian. English is the main language. 🌟 WHY JOIN? ✅ Meet people before going out ✅ Instantly find a crew for the night ✅ Expand your social circle ✅ Discover new bars, clubs, and events ✅ Start your Saturday with great energy ✅ Avoid spending the evening alone Some people come with plans. Most people make them here. 🤝 COMING ALONE? That's exactly what this event is for. Most attendees arrive without knowing anyone. Within minutes, you'll be chatting with people from all over the world, joining conversations, and making plans for the rest of the evening. Come alone or bring friends — either way, you'll quickly become part of the group. Every event has 10+ nationalities, 30+ attendees, and a welcoming atmosphere where it's easy to connect. 🌍 ABOUT LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL 📈 1,500+ members 🎉 200+ events organized 📅 Events 6 times per week We help people build friendships, social circles, travel groups, activity partners, and unforgettable memories in Ljubljana. Many people tell us they met their closest friends in Slovenia through this community. 📲 JOIN THE COMMUNITY The most important thing you can do right now: 👉 Join our WhatsApp community of 1,500+ members — this is where Ljubljana actually happens. https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational This is where people coordinate plans, organize dinners, hikes, trips, sports, parties, language exchanges, and spontaneous adventures every week. ⚠️ WHATSAPP NOTE We auto-reject +1 (US) and +44 (UK) numbers to reduce spam. If you can't join, simply DM @ljubljanainternational and we'll add you manually. 📍 HOW TO FIND US Look for the biggest international group in the venue. If you're unsure where we are, ask the staff at LOO-BLAH-NAH where Ljubljana International is sitting. Or look for the bald guy with a beard and glasses (usually wearing a blue polo shirt) who is often hosting. Meet people. Find your crew. Start the night right. See you Saturday! 🎉🍻🌍

Ljubljana International: Saturday Pre-Party Meetup 🎉🍻🌍 Make Ljubljana your own. 🌍 We are the city's largest international family with 1,500+ members. Meet your crew, grab a drink, and start your Saturday night with an international crowd before heading out to Ljubljana's best parties, bars, and clubs. 📍 LOGISTICS 📅 Date: Every Saturday ⏰ Time: 20:00 - 23:00 (Join anytime! No need to be on time) 🏢 Venue: Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center, Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 1, Ljubljana 💶 Price: Free entry 🎟️ Entry: Walk-ins welcome 🔄 Type: Weekly recurring 👥 Vibe: Expected 30–50+ attendees. Social, energetic, international atmosphere. No strict capacity limit. 👤 WHO IT'S FOR Casual, open-minded people aged 18-40 who want fun, new friends and connections. Perfect for remote workers, digital nomads, freelancers, programmers, engineers, Erasmus students, researchers, business owners, travelers, expats, and locals. 70% international, 30% Slovenian. English is the main language. 🍻 WHAT TO EXPECT • Meet people before going out • International crowd • Great conversations • Drinks and good vibes • New friendships • Spontaneous plans for the rest of the night • Groups forming naturally Whether you're heading to a club, a bar, another event, or haven't decided yet, this is where the night begins. 🤝 COMING ALONE? Perfect. Most people do. No need to come on time. Come alone or bring friends — 90% of people arrive solo and leave with new ones. Every event has 10+ nationalities, 30+ people, and zero awkward standing around. We've done this 200+ times. We know how to make you feel at home. Events 6x per week — there's always something happening. The real product isn't the drinks. It's the people. 📲 JOIN THE COMMUNITY The most important thing you can do right now: 👉 Join our WhatsApp community of 1,500+ members — this is where Ljubljana actually happens. https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational This is where people organize dinners, hikes, sports activities, language exchanges, weekend trips, parties, and spontaneous adventures throughout the week. ⚠️ WHATSAPP NOTE We auto-reject +1 (US) and +44 (UK) numbers to fight spam. If you have one of those or can't join, DM us on Instagram @ljubljanainternational and we'll add you manually. 📍 HOW TO FIND US AT THE VENUE Just join the biggest group! If you have trouble finding us, ask an employee at Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center where the Ljubljana International meetup is happening. Or look for the bald guy with a beard and glasses (often wearing a blue polo shirt) who is usually hosting. Don't pre-party alone. Start your night with great people. Make Ljubljana your own. 🎉🍻🌍

Ljubljana International: Friday Afterparty @ Voyager 🍺🌍🎉 Make Ljubljana your own. 🌍 We are the city's largest international family with 1,500+ members. The meetup may end, but the night is just getting started. Join us for drinks, conversations, and great Friday night energy with one of Ljubljana's most international crowds. 📍 LOGISTICS 📅 Date: Every Friday ⏰ Time: 23:00 - 01:00+ (Join anytime! No need to be on time) 🏢 Venue: Voyager Craft Beer Bar, Mačkova ulica 6, Ljubljana 💶 Price: Free entry (drinks paid individually) 🎟️ Entry: Walk-ins welcome 🔄 Type: Weekly recurring 👥 Vibe: Expected 30+ attendees. Social, energetic, international atmosphere. No strict capacity limit. 👤 WHO IT'S FOR Casual, open-minded people aged 18-40 who want fun, new friends and connections. Perfect for remote workers, digital nomads, freelancers, programmers, engineers, Erasmus students, researchers, business owners, travelers, expats, and locals. 70% international, 30% Slovenian. English is the main language. 🍺 WHAT TO EXPECT • Continue the night with people you met at the meetup • Great conversations and new friendships • Local and international craft beers • Relaxed but energetic atmosphere • International crowd • Spontaneous plans for the rest of the night This is where smaller groups form, conversations get deeper, and the best stories usually begin. 🤝 COMING ALONE? Perfect. Most people do. No need to come on time. Come alone or bring friends — 90% of people arrive solo and leave with new ones. Every event has 10+ nationalities, 30+ people, and zero awkward standing around. We've done this 200+ times. We know how to make you feel at home. Events 6x per week — there's always something. The real product isn't the beer. It's the people. 📲 JOIN THE COMMUNITY The most important thing you can do right now: 👉 Join our WhatsApp community of 1,500+ members — this is where Ljubljana actually happens. 👉 https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational This is where people organize dinners, hikes, sports activities, weekend trips, language exchanges, parties, and spontaneous adventures throughout the week. ⚠️ WHATSAPP NOTE We auto-reject +1 (US) and +44 (UK) numbers to fight spam. If you have one of those or can't join, DM us on Instagram @ljubljanainternational and we'll add you manually. 📍 HOW TO FIND US AT THE VENUE Just join the biggest group! If you have trouble finding us, ask an employee at Voyager Craft Beer Bar where the Ljubljana International group is sitting. Or look for the bald guy with a beard and glasses (often wearing a blue polo shirt) who is usually hosting. Good people. Good beer. Good Friday nights. See you at Voyager. 🍺🌍

Ljubljana International: Friday Social Pizza Night 🍕🌍🍻 Make Ljubljana your own. 🌍 We are the city's largest international family with 1,500+ members. Kick off your weekend with great pizza, interesting conversations, and an international crowd that makes meeting new people feel effortless. 📍 LOGISTICS 📅 Date: Every Friday ⏰ Time: 18:00 - Late (Drop in whenever you like) 🏢 Venue: Pizzeria Dobra Vila, Dunajska cesta 5, Ljubljana 💶 Price: Free entry (pay only for what you order) 🎟️ Entry: Walk-ins welcome 🔄 Type: Weekly recurring 👥 Vibe: Expected 30–50+ attendees. Relaxed, social, and welcoming. No strict capacity limit. 👤 WHO IT'S FOR Casual, open-minded people aged 18-40 who want fun, new friends, and meaningful connections. Perfect for internationals, Erasmus students, digital nomads, freelancers, entrepreneurs, engineers, researchers, remote workers, travelers, and locals who enjoy meeting people from around the world. English is the main language. 70% international. 30% Slovenian. 🍻 WHY PEOPLE LOVE THIS EVENT ✅ Easy way to meet new people ✅ No pressure and no awkward icebreakers ✅ Great pizza and drinks ✅ Relaxed Friday atmosphere ✅ Friendly international crowd ✅ A perfect transition from work mode into weekend mode You never know who you'll end up sitting next to. A future friend. A travel buddy. A business partner. Or simply someone who makes your evening better. 🤝 COMING ALONE? Excellent. Most attendees do. No need to come on time. Come alone or bring friends — 90% of people arrive solo and leave with new ones. Every event brings together people from 10+ nationalities and creates dozens of new conversations. We've organized 200+ events over the past two years and know exactly how to help people connect. 🌍 ABOUT LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL 📈 1,500+ members 🎉 200+ events organized 📅 Events 6 times per week We help people build friendships, social circles, professional networks, travel groups, and unforgettable memories in Ljubljana. Many attendees tell us they found their best friends in Slovenia through our community. 📲 JOIN THE COMMUNITY The meetup lasts one evening. The community lasts all week. 👉 https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational This is where people organize dinners, hikes, trips, sports activities, language exchanges, parties, and spontaneous adventures. ⚠️ WHATSAPP NOTE We auto-reject +1 (US) and +44 (UK) numbers to fight spam. If you have one of those or can't join, DM us on Instagram @ljubljanainternational and we'll add you manually. 📍 HOW TO FIND US Look for the biggest international group in the venue. If you're not sure where we are, ask the staff at Dobra Vila where Ljubljana International is sitting. Or look for the bald guy with a beard and glasses (often wearing a blue polo shirt) who is usually hosting. Good people. Good pizza. Good start to the weekend. See you Friday! 🍕🍻🌍

Ljubljana International: Wednesday Pub Quiz 🧠🍻🌍 Make Ljubljana your own. 🌍 We are the city's largest international family with 1,500+ members. Join one of Ljubljana's biggest weekly pub quizzes and spend your Wednesday evening meeting new people, testing your knowledge, and having fun with an international crowd. 📍 LOGISTICS 📅 Date: Every Wednesday ⏰ Time: 19:00 - 22:00 (Join anytime! No need to be on time) 🏢 Venue: The Place, Plečnikov trg 1, Ljubljana 💶 Price: €5 per person 🎟️ Entry: Walk-ins welcome. Sign-up recommended: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc-nHP7z815r8oxeyqlPTFRuQ_wSaQNZCgzRQ30nG9rIvB5-A/viewform 🔄 Type: Weekly recurring 👥 Vibe: Expected 100+ attendees. One of the largest weekly international events in Ljubljana. 👤 WHO IT'S FOR Casual, open-minded people aged 18-40 who want fun, new friends and connections. Perfect for remote workers, digital nomads, freelancers, programmers, engineers, Erasmus students, researchers, business owners, and locals. 70% international, 30% Slovenian. English is the main language. 🧠 WHAT TO EXPECT • 5 rounds of trivia • General knowledge, music, geography, movies, pop culture, history, science, and surprises • Friendly competition • Prizes for the best teams • Great drinks and great company No quiz experience required. The goal isn't just to win — it's to meet people and have a memorable evening. 🤝 COMING ALONE? Perfect. Most attendees come alone. We actively help solo attendees find teams and meet people, so you'll never feel out of place. Come alone or bring friends — 90% of people arrive solo and leave with new ones. Every event has 10+ nationalities, 100+ attendees, and zero awkward standing around. We've done this 200+ times and know how to make you feel at home. Events 6x per week — there's always something happening. 📲 JOIN THE COMMUNITY The most important thing you can do right now: 👉 Join our WhatsApp community of 1,500+ members — this is where Ljubljana actually happens. [https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational](https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExTDl5RXFsdkpTUW1HUkVEQXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6KgTv8nG8a-Pphw0jDQNp9aV1ZmTD9_YYBGWLAwsrU1TEVSf8HAwPIAyXWag_aem_ilvKDI9R1M_PitLD4YINZg) This is where team formation, event updates, spontaneous meetups, trips, dinners, hikes, sports activities, and friendships happen. ⚠️ WHATSAPP NOTE We auto-reject +1 (US) and +44 (UK) numbers to fight spam. If you have one of those or can't join, DM us on Instagram @ljubljanainternational and we'll add you manually. 📍 HOW TO FIND US AT THE VENUE Just join the biggest group! If you have trouble finding us, ask an employee at The Place where the Ljubljana International Pub Quiz is happening. Or look for the bald guy with a beard and glasses (often wearing a blue polo shirt) who is usually hosting. See you Wednesday! 🍻

Ljubljana International: Tuesday Pub Quiz 🧠🌍🍺 Challenge your brain, meet new people, and spend a fun Tuesday evening with internationals and locals from all over the world. Make Ljubljana your own. 🌍 Ljubljana International is the city's largest international family with 1,500+ members. 📍 LOGISTICS 📅 Date: Every Tuesday ⏰ Time: 20:00 - 22:00 (Join anytime! No need to be on time) 🏢 Venue: Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center, Adamič-Lundrovo nabrežje 1, Ljubljana 💶 Price: €5 per person 🎟️ Entry: Walk-ins welcome. Registration recommended: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvhPqLnDFp5sq6Fg434Y1luIDR5I2Ns2qmm-udLYtB8Bnnjg/viewform?usp=dialog 🔄 Type: Weekly recurring 👥 Vibe: Expected 30–45 attendees. Capacity limit: 45 people. 👤 WHO IS THIS FOR? Casual, open-minded people aged 18-40 who want fun, new friends, and new connections. Perfect for remote workers, digital nomads, freelancers, programmers, engineers, Erasmus students, researchers, business owners, and locals. 70% international, 30% Slovenian. English is the main language. 🧠 WHAT TO EXPECT • Four rounds of quiz questions • General knowledge, geography, music, movies, history, science, and surprises • Friendly competition • Team-based fun • Prizes for the winning teams No need to come on time. Come alone or bring friends — 90% of people arrive solo and leave with new ones. Every event brings together 10+ nationalities, 30+ people, and plenty of opportunities to meet interesting people. We've organized 200+ events over the past two years and know how to make people feel welcome. The real product isn't the quiz. It's the people. 🌍 ABOUT LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL We organize events 6 times per week and help internationals and locals build friendships, connections, and unforgettable memories in Ljubljana. Many attendees make lifelong friends through our events and often stay in Ljubljana longer because of the people they meet here. We are not just a community. We are a family. 📲 JOIN THE COMMUNITY The most important thing you can do right now: 👉 Join our WhatsApp community of 1,500+ members — this is where Ljubljana actually happens. https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational ⚠️ WhatsApp Note We auto-reject +1 (US) and +44 (UK) numbers to fight spam. If you have one of those numbers or can't join for any reason, simply DM us on Instagram @ljubljanainternational and we'll add you manually. 📍 HOW TO FIND US Just join the biggest group! If you have trouble finding us, ask an employee at the venue where the Ljubljana International Pub Quiz is happening. You can also look for the bald guy with a beard and glasses (often wearing a blue polo shirt) who is usually hosting. See you on Tuesday! 🍻

Join us for an upcoming French Food Festival in Downtown Columbus, Ohio. Admission is FREE! Make sure to reserve a spot as soon as possible, as tickets are going fast: [Undercurrent Bastille Day Festival - A Taste of Paris in Downtown Columbus Tickets, Sunday, July 12 • 12 PM - 4 PM | Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/undercurrent-bastille-day-festival-a-taste-of-paris-in-downtown-columbus-tickets-1988784103791) This Outdoor Festival takes place at 66 North High Street, right next to the New Chouette French Restaurant. From the Eventbrite Page: "Transport yourself to the streets of Paris without leaving downtown Columbus! Join us for an authentic French celebration of Bastille Day in a vibrant street festival atmosphere. Experience the true joie de vivre with an afternoon filled with French culture, cuisine, and community." There will be Live Music, French Food, Art and Artisan Shops to explore! Parking is widely available in the Downtown Area at parking spaces on High Street and the surrounding area. I usually just park by the Old Fire Station on 4th Street and walk over to High Street. There are usually plenty of spaces available and the cost is only about $3.00 to $5.00. We will arrive at 1 PM with several hours to explore the festival. We will meet just inside of the Festival, next to the Chouette Restaurant. Thanks and hope to see you come out!

**Summary** The [Ohio State Fair](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/) is consistently ranked as one of the [best](https://www.realpropertymgt.com/expert-tips/top-5-state-fairs) ... [state](https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-state-fair/) ... [fairs](https://www.dispatch.com/story/entertainment/local/2025/08/06/ohio-state-fair-named-top-fair-nation-usa-today/85527343007/) ... [in](https://www.blueribbongroup.net/blue-ribbon-foodies/tag/what-are-the-best-state-fairs-in-the-united-states/) ... [America](https://614now.com/2025/explore-columbus/usa-today-names-the-ohio-state-fair-as-one-of-the-countrys-best-find-out-where-it-ranked-here). By [acreage](https://www.google.com/search?q=largest+state+fairs+in+us+by+acreage&client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=5a1ec5f7868eb06c&prmd=ivns&sxsrf=AE3TifOrRyB0UF_zcJxuzJ2blALpROCfFA:1763485805100&source=lnms&fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZPH5QghoXViUOqdFyhkUfHhA90f6RZnLvcDKUWyhDavFJHvqNnhR_vnElk0C8uWstYqkR_Pamh3VQhx9plk87wYYnFhXCtQ6JPByPAvG0_LeyIQszFojQ7tWAfAvDzo6MwRJuWxS0jrzFWBkVvjkxbHuA6PTQnwEl88m-YBBItnTFmNlR9xZ9YLttetzKJB1GAWacLg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiX3-rHmPyQAxU6_8kDHcKPH1gQ0pQJegQIBRAF&biw=1735&bih=926&dpr=1), it's one of the five largest fairs in the country. And a million people [visit](https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2025-08-06/attendance-off-slightly-at-2025-ohio-state-fair-but-sales-of-champions-was-up-big) it each year. Last year's [attendees](https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/nearly-1-million-visitors-2025-ohio-state-fair-fun-facts-statistics/530-e6c7db59-e9ca-469b-9d3e-ef39011aca00) came from each of Ohio's 88 counties, from all 50 states, and from as far away as 26 other countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, and others, according to Ticketmaster sales data. **Map of the Fair** Here is a [map of the grounds](https://cdn.saffire.com/images.ashx?t=ig&rid=OhioStateFair&i=map2025.jpg&cb=0508a2a3). **Directions, Parking, Tickets, Timing** Take exit 111 (17th Avenue) off of I-71. Turn west (toward the McDonald's). [Parking is $10](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours) whether you pay in advance or on-site. It's generally not too bad getting in and out of the fair. You generally get an excellent spot, too, early in the mornings. There are cops everywhere and they will let you know where to park. [Tickets will be $13](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours), but through July 26, you can buy them online for $9. You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $24 and $84, respectively. I've scheduled this meetup from 9 to 3, but you can obviously come late or leave early if you want. They will also stamp your hand for free same-day re-admission if you want. The fair is a big place. You will get plenty of steps in at this event, so be prepared to do some walking! **Outside Items** From the [FAQ](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/faqs): * *Bags* "Purses, backpacks, book bags, coolers, strollers, etc. are permitted, but are subject to search. Bag searches will also be conducted for guests entering concerts and events in the WCOL Celeste Center." * *Outside Food and Beverage* "You may bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted on grounds." I like to bring a disposable plastic bottle of water with me and refill it on the grounds as I go. **What's New at the Fair** They've spent the last couple years doing major construction at the fair, and most if not all of it should be completed by the start of this year's fair. They've been massively overhauling what's located at the heart of the fairgrounds just north of Kiddleland and just west of the Midway, they're supposed to also have completed improvements to the Dairy Building. In the center of the fairgrounds, there's supposed to be a new food hall, which I would consider to be the centerpiece of the whole shebang. It's supposed to [include](https://www.ohioexpocenter.com/p/about/expo-2050-master-plan) "multi-purpose dining and event space and incubator kitchens on the first floor, and additional dining and event space on the second story." Furthermore, "both levels [will] include outdoor dining on a patio or balcony." A new "Town Square" and surrounding area will also feature a permanent "Ohio-themed carousel" that will also be "complete with ample shade and seating." The new Dairy Building will be air-conditioned and add public restrooms, a universal changing table, and other new amenities. Four hundred and sixty million dollars have been spent on these improvements and renovations, and I expect they will be very cool! **Where We'll Meet** At no later than 9 a.m., I'll be standing by the giant cardinal just inside Cardinal Gate 1, then we'll wander down to Tracey's (see below). If you come late, Tracey's is where you'll find us (DM me or drop a note in the comments if you need help finding us after you arrive). *Note: There's a smaller Tracey's booth near the main entrance. This is not the Tracey's location we'll be meeting at. You will have to walk down to the Bricker Marketplace to get to the correct Tracey's. There's more information on this, below, in the "What We'll Do" section.* If you want to come later in the day, drop me a note and I'll help you navigate to us or I'll come find you if that's feasible. **What We'll Do** This will be sort of a soft itinerary, depending on the interests of the group. The following is based on last year's [fair schedule](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/events), and might need to be changed depending on this year's schedule. But the overall fair schedule doesn't normally change that radically year-over-year. * 9:00 a.m. - *Tracey's* Tracey's is located at the northernmost part of the "WNCI Food Highway," just south of Brown Arena and at the northern corner of the Bricker Marketplace. They have a covered area with picnic tables where you can sit. They have one of the most varied food selections at the fair. They serve breakfast in the mornings, including eggs, bacon, and pancakes. We'll meet here and start our day by socializing over coffee and, if you want, breakfast. Last year, the pancakes with bacon was $7. You got two pancakes that I would describe as average-sized, and a couple strips of bacon. They gave me extra syrup for free. Both the pancakes and the bacon were actually pretty good. Their coffee is generally good, too. They also serve their coffee in Styrofoam cups, which I like because good coffee is more important to me than the environment. I've posted pics, below, of last year's Tracey's menu, as well as a picture of the venue itself relative to the main entrance of the Bricker Marketplace (this entrance faces the Celeste Center). * 10:00 a.m. - *Kasich Hall* Here they have the Ohio State Fair history exhibit, which is very cool. This building also hosts the creative exhibits, including quilts, cakes and pastries, and fair posters. Finally, events like girls' baton competitions, girls' cheerleading, youth choir, and youth boxing (my favorite) are held here. * 11:00 a.m. - *Lausche Youth Exploration Space* This building features 4-H exhibits, Boy and Girl Scout exhibits, and various science exhibits, with the latter including exhibits from COSI and the Ohio State Physics Department. You can also buy Girl Scout cookies here! * 12:00 a.m. - *Bricker Marketplace* Bricker Marketplace is the fair's main flea market. It's a huge indoor shopping area with a food court at its center. The [ODOT](https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/) booth is here, and I always like to check and see if they have any maps I want. Because Bricker is air-conditioned, it's a good place to stop for lunch. There are booths here with burgers, pizza, chicken, Asian food, and alcoholic beverages. * 1:00 p.m. - *Cox Fine Arts* There are art displays here -- paintings, drawings, sculptures, and such. I always like going through here, and people usually like the displays here. * 2:00 p.m. - *Natural Resources Park* The Natural Resources Park is next to Kiddieland, and I think it's the best area of the fair. It's certainly a very popular area. The Timber Show is popular, though I confess to finding it slightly overrated. This area also includes youth fishing, a kayak pond, archery range, butterfly house, aviary, and animal exhibits -- and these are all free. You can also get free chap stick and pens in the [Oil & Gas building](https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/oil-gas/oil-gas). The chap stick is functional, though perhaps a bit mediocre, but the pens are absolutely the best possible pens you can get anywhere, and I'm being completely serious about this. These are seriously my all-time favorite pens, so I encourage you to grab a few. **Other Things Along the Way** Again, the Ohio State Fair is a big place! So here are some of the other things we might check out along the way: * *The* *Cincinnati Circus Company, The Nerveless Nocks, Lady Houdini, or some other "death-defying" act* These typically start at 1:30 and run once every two hours in the afternoon. The show is generally decent and worth catching, whatever it happens to be. These used to run at the south end of the fair by the south gate on 11th Avenue, but a couple years ago they moved them to the south end of the Midway and next to Natural Resources Park. My guess is that this is where they will be again this year. * *Main Street Stage / Gazebo Stage* These stages are at opposite ends of the "WNCI Food Highway." They'll have shows like live music, magic, hypnosis, juggling, and the like. I usually end up seeing most of the shows, almost by accident, during my annual trips to the fair. If there's music at the Gazebo, though, it can be a little loud if the performer is using a big amp. But otherwise the shows are generally entertaining, if not spectacular. If [The Beach Geeks](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1440916777197254) are playing again this year, we are absolutely dropping everything to check them out. I'll fight people on this. * *The Midway* I'm not a big *riding*-the-rides person, and I doubt we will go through here though unless there's interest. However, I do really enjoy *watching* people ride rides, so I never have a problem taking a stroll down the Midway. I do like doing bumper cars, though, as well as some of the various haunted or fun houses. If you think there's a snowball's chance in hell I'm doing the [Defender](https://talleyamusements.com/attraction/defender/), though, then please put the bong down and slowly back away. * *The Dairy Building* This is where the famous Butter Cow is, and the exhibit is always popular. You can also get fairly overpriced ice cream and milkshakes here. Unless something changes here because of their renovations, there are cheaper places at the fair where you can get dairy desserts, and I can show you where they are. * *Taft Coliseum* An indoor arena where they have rodeo- or cowboy/cowgirl-type shows. Sometimes these shows are very good and entertaining and worth checking out. Note that, while you're out of the sun here and the seating is generally good, the arena is not air-conditioned. If trick riders [Tracie Spitznogle](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tracie-lee-spitzongle) and [Carlie Hale](https://www.facebook.com/trickriderCarlie/) are here, you are likely to enjoy their show, and it will be free (and well-attended). * *The Petting Zoo* & *Pig Races* These used to be in Kiddieland, but in 2025 they were moved to "The Barnyard," next to the Gazebo Stage and the Celeste Center. I suspect they'll have moved again in 2026, but that they will otherwise be back. They're both free and generally popular, with the Pig Races being *extremely* popular. The woman who does the announcing for the Races always delivers the exact same script year after year, but she has so much charisma you won't care, even if you've seen it many times before. * *Central Park* Sometimes I like to just sit here, people-watch, and listen to the sounds of the fair. There are typically several beer vendors right next to Central Park if you want to relax and nurse a beverage while you do so, and the Dairy Building is also very close by. This area may end up being superseded in desirability by the new "Town Square." The Park does suffer from a paucity of shade, and the Square is supposed to rectify some of this. We will see! * *Live Music* There is likely to be some sort of band performing classic rock from something like 2p-5p either in the Taste of Ohio Pavilion next to the Natural Resources Park, or in the Pavilion's replacement/renovated area near the new Town Square. The show will be free and highly likely to be quite good. You should be able to get drinks and food here, too (wherever the ultimate location is), while you check out the band. * *Zultar - Fortune Teller* I saw this guy for the first time last year. He's one of the fair's "strolling entertainers," meaning he takes his act all over the fair and you never know where he will show up next. He's got a "booth" and he wears a costume and face paint that make him look exactly like one of those fortune-telling-booth mannequins. He is completely hilarious (particularly when dealing with children), and if we see him, we will stop and watch him. Don't make me fight you on this, too, people. * *Ohio History Center* Buying a ticket to enter the Ohio State Fair will automatically get you free admission to the [Ohio History Center](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-history-center/) and [Ohio Village](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-village/), which are located just outside the fairgrounds but otherwise are just next door. They've been doing major renovations of the Village, but these are supposed to be completed by the time the State Fair opens this year. You can walk from the fair to the History Center and the Village, or they have a free shuttle you can take. It's not a short walk, but it's also eminently doable. The History Center is a museum that's really not too terribly big, but is very interesting. And the Village is a living simulation of life in a small 19th-century Ohio town. I suspect most of the people who come out this Meetup would probably enjoy both the Center and the Village. Just keep in mind, though, that if we go, we'll probably be up there for at least a couple hours, which means less time at the fair. However, you won't have to twist my arm to get me to go up, because the whole History complex is actually pretty cool. **Conclusion** Come on out to the Ohio State Fair! 🥳 🎉 😄

*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 ;)*

Make plans to celebrate the Homeland from the Heartland in Dublin, Ohio at the largest 3-day Irish Fest on the planet, #[DublinIrishFest](http://dublinirishfestival.org)! Wear a little green and join our festive bunch! **MEETUP**: We will form a circle of chairs as our landing spot on the grassy area just outside of the CELTIC ROCK STAGE (look for my Meetup chair in the middle). This area has easy access to food trucks and beer, wine and cocktail trucks. The Celtic Sports area is nearby (Highland Games). Lots of restroom trucks, too. **COST**: Purchase discount tickets now for only $20 ($30 general admission - age 10+ or $20 Seniors at the gate). Tickets are non-refundable. (I wait and get them at gate) **PARK & SHUTTLE**: [http://dublinirishfestival.org/parking-shuttles/](http://dublinirishfestival.org/parking-shuttles/) Metro Center, 555 Metro Place North, Dublin, Ohio 43017 A complimentary shuttle service runs continuously from Metro Place to the Festival. Shuttles begin each day one hour before the festival opens, and continue until one hour after the festival closes. **MUSIC**: This festival has variety, no matter your taste. I like evenings by the Celtic Rock stage because they have Irish Dancers, folk rock and solid celtic rock each evening. Please feel free to go early and wander to catch all the other cultural venues. **BRING**: Lawn chair or blanket. No coolers. Bags are inspected by security at Fest entrances. Most vendors accept cash or charge. **WEAR**: Summer Fest wear - nice t-shirt & shorts, comfy shoes (fest is on 38 acres of grass, trails and sidewalks). **NEWBIES**: This event is very freeform so I would suggest coming along with a buddy as members will be coming and going from our circle. News Facts: •More than 100,000 fans will experience Irish music ranging from traditional to Celtic rock. View the complete [Entertainment Schedule](http://dublinirishfestival.org/venue/celtic-rock/). (this page also has the festival map - we will base from the light green area, SOUTH) •Watch and learn from seasoned chefs as they serve traditional dishes at the Celtic Cooking Demonstrations. •Pet some paddy pups in the Celtic Canines Area—a must-see for animal lovers. •Find handmade arts and crafts at the Emerald Isle and Marketplace. More than 100 vendors offer the most diverse Irish shopping experience in the country. •Check out the beverage menu, featuring Jameson’s finest and their signature cocktail, Limerick Lemonade. And don’t miss out on a Jameson Whiskey Tasting hosted by their own Master of Whiskey.

The ultimate Thursday night out is back. Join us for BAM Thursdays (Bar, Art, and Music) at the Columbus Museum of Art. Live music, great art, delicious bites, vendors and fresh cocktails in the garden space. Limited seating is also available inside Schokko Café (yummy sharable plates). **FEE:** BAM Thursday evenings offer **FREE general admission** from 5:00–9:00 PM. See what’s on view [here](https://www.columbusmuseum.org/art-exhibitions/on-view-now/) (special exhibits are $5.00 fee). **TOUR**: I'll lead a tour of the main museum from 6:30pm til 7pm. FREE **PARKING** behind the museum is $7.00. Nearby parking a little cheaper. **SEATING**: *Tables are available on a first come first serve basis for dining. In the event of inclement weather, BAM Thursdays will move inside to the atrium.* **DRESS**: Summer dressy casual