Musicians

Our 44th Spiritual Creatives gathering - in person! Come and join us for a lovely walk and talk around Hampstead Heath. We are meeting just outside Hampstead Heath station (London Overground train) at 11.00 on Sunday the 31st of May. Please note: This is NOT Hampstead Station on the Northern Line! It is the Hampstead HEATH station. The Google link is here: [https://goo.gl/maps/AJCNoxkKNj6K9Gp77](https://goo.gl/maps/AJCNoxkKNj6K9Gp77) We will wait for people to arrive until 11.15am and then we will begin walking. If you arrive later, you will only be able to catch up with us at Kenwood House approximately between 12 and 12.30pm. You should be able to find us sitting around as a group having a drink. If the weather permits, you'll find us outside the main café, towards the back. Look for the guy with the multicoloured scarf... that's me! After a short break of 20-30 minutes, we then walk back through the Heath, taking the long way round to Parliament Hill, and conclude our stroll back to Hampstead Heath overground station around 2 to 2.30pm. (Please note that you may become so involved in your conversations that you end up losing sight of the main group! Unfortunately, there is no way for you to catch up with us once we have become separated (and we do NOT check our phones for texts or messages during our walk) so please be mindful and conscious to stay with the main group if you want to keep up. Also please bear in mind that Hampstead Heath can be muddy sometimes, so please wear the appropriate shoes). After returning to Hampstead Heath Overground station, many of our (usually hungry) members like to continue the camaraderie over lunch at one of the local cafés or restaurants. As our group has grown over the years, these gatherings can be quite large, so we usually have to split into smaller parties and explore different venues. Some of our favourite spots are Dominique’s Café (dominiquescafe.co.uk) and Silverberries (silverberry.net), both of which offer a welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. It’s a great way to wind down the walk and continue our conversations. Spiritual Creatives is a warm-hearted and popular meetup group, as you can see from our ratings and comments! We hope to meet you then! :-) Best wishes Cliff **Find out more about us at [https://www.spiritualarts.org.uk](https://www.spiritualarts.org.uk/).**

# **Kim Cypher** **31st May @ Ronnie Scott’s 12:00** **“ Kim Cypher is a rare musical treasure.”** **— Jazz FM** **“A Latin jazz party that exudes love and happiness.”** **— Bebop Spoken Here** **9th May 2026, 19.30pm** **Kim Cypher presents a Funky Latin Jazz Party, featuring Ashley Slater - an uplifting, vibrant show full of positive energy and feel-good vibes.** **Ticket prices** **£25 – £35 → [Bookings](https://www.ronniescotts.co.uk/find-a-show/kim-cypher)** **Line-up** **KIM CYPHER – saxophones & vocals** **FAYYAZ VIRJI – trombone** **CHRIS COBBSON – guitar** **ALEX STEELE – piano** **ROBERT RICKENBERG – bass** **MIKE CYPHER – drums** **A welcome return for one of the country’s most exciting saxophonists, vocalists and composers Kim Cypher, together with her band of top UK jazz musicians. Kim Cypher’s Funky Latin Jazz Party is the sequel to her hugely successful 2025 ‘LIVE and Smiling’ tour, which included sell-out shows across the country, including Ronnie Scott’s. Fresh from a return performance at the hugely prestigious Cheltenham Jazz Festival, Kim and Ashley reunite ahead of his UK tour in June with his own band, Heptet.** **Kim Cypher is a firm favourite on the UK jazz scene, renowned for her charismatic, vivacious style and warm stage presence. With four highly acclaimed albums, award-winning music videos, performancs in New York and sell-out shows across the country, Kim has firmly secured her reputation as a leading figure in contemporary jazz.** **Special guest Ashley Slater, the dynamic frontman of acid jazz/funk band Freak Power and hugely respected for his work with Norman Cook aka Fatboy Slim, Loose Tubes, George Russell and Carla Bley as well as being a composer, producer and bandleader in his own right, adds his distinctive vocal style and vibrant trombone playing to the mix.** **The band features Chris Cobbson on guitar, Alex Steele on piano, Rob Rickenberg on bass, Mike Cypher on drums who between them, have worked with some of the most highly respected artists and bands including: Courtney Pine, Curtis Stigers, Sheila Ferguson (The Three Degrees), Ray Gelato, Osibisa, Liane Carroll, Pee Wee Ellis, Maceo Parker, Fred Wesley, Monty Alexander, Spike Robinson, Van Morrison, and Paloma Faith.** **[YOUTUBE VIDEO @ CHELTENHAM JAZZ FESTIVAL](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1MKFC2VQGA&t=1s)** *Note: For a reserved table with the London Loves Jazz MeetUp group bookings must be confirmed by bookings in advance of the gig directly with the venue. For a comprehensive list of jazz gigs in London and environs subscribe to [Jazz London Live](https://www.jazzlondonlive.com/) which lists over 5,000 gigs annually in 250 venues.*

Please join me for a Sunday afternoon of open air music and pizza at the Fox and Firkin, one of Londons most active live music venues. **Theon Cross** is one of those rare musicians whose vision has redefined their instrument. The creative power and originality of Theon’s playing has reinvented the tuba’s place in modern music. Exploring the tuba’s possibilities in the light of diasporic bass culture, Theon has worked to develop the full sonic spectrum of his instrument, transforming it into a total 21st century sound-system, powered by breath. Theon released his first EP Aspirations in 2015 followed by his first album FYAH in 2019 and the Intra-I in 2021. He has He has featured on countless albums and contributed his version of Thelonious Monk’s Epistrophy to the Blue Note Re:Imagined series. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N4gAcqk7XV8 **Tickets:** £12 early birds - £15 second release, plus 10% booking fee. https://foxfirkin.com/event/theon-cross-open-air-31st-may-2026/ **When?** Doors open 2pm, Theon Cross 6.30pm, after party 8pm. **Where?** Fox and Firkin, 316 Lewisham High Street, London, SE13 6JZ

👀 Something is happening… The best way I can describe it is like one member said to me: ‘Tim - It’s like freshers week, every week, but better, with bands and stuff…’ and that’s how it’s been over the last 7 years since we created this group. It’s honestly the most fun we’ve had and I’m inviting everyone of you because something’s been happening for a while now and you just don’t know about it…It’s a Showcase of some of the Best London bands playing their music in London - and it’s also a MEETUP group, so you can watch the gig with a mix of regular members and newcomers. Feel free to come on your own or bring your friends and meet new people. Look for the ‘MEETUP SIGN’ or ask the Host on the Door when you arrive. It’s an awesome line-up and at one of the Top Venues in London - Great place for a beer, meet new people and see some amazing unsigned bands! 🔥🔥🚒🍻 \* ‼️ THE ULTIMATE LONDON GIG MEETUP! ‼️ LONDON MUSIC SHOWCASE Presents: Hope & Anchor May 31st SUNDAY [SCARLETT JESSICA](https://www.instagram.com/scarlettjessicaa?igsh=Z2NpcDl3aGE4amIy)\- Headliner [COMMUNICATE PROJECT](https://www.instagram.com/communicateproject?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [IN ALBION](https://linktr.ee/Albionband?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=350fa3f7-6504-4852-ad32-64a79d6f8ee0) [KAFIRAT](https://www.instagram.com/kafiratofficial?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [THE CLAVERTONS](https://www.instagram.com/theclavertons?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [EASY ON](https://www.instagram.com/easyonuk?igsh=MTBieng3YW5rNGFjaQ==) \* There aren’t enough emojis for this, so I’ll keep it simple: BE THERE. If you’ve been to the MEET-UPS over the last 7 years, you’ll know what it’s all about so come down, bring your friends, bring your foes, cancel your wedding, book Granny out of the retirement home. Whatever it takes, she won’t want miss it 😄🍻 \* WHATSAPP GROUP: We’re a friendly mix; English, French, Australian, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish and Japanese people so I’m sure you will meet someone that shares a passion for Rocking Music. Don't worry if attendance looks low, we are meeting other Meetup / WhatsApp / Facebook Groups and a lot of my friends don't RSVP. I can also add you to the Event’s WHATSAPP GROUP if you are interested in joining - Just message me your number. \* ***IMPORTANT*** This is a TICKETED EVENT: If you would like to come, simply message me directly through this Group and I will send you the details on how to download a DISCOUNTED TICKET (Click my profile - there is an icon at the top for Private Messages) \* DISCLAIMER: I work for the Venue / Promoters. It’s just for fun nights and meeting people. We are not responsible for you or your belongings. By attending this event you agree to waiver liability for the Host :) Please bring ID to events as some are 18+. You may appear in photos/videos of the gig. Thank you \* All Gig Meetups here 👀‼️👇 https://dice.fm/promoters/london-music-showcase-6ko3 https://www.instagram.com/londonmusicshowcase/ https://www.meetup.com/London-Music-Showcase-Gigs-Drinks/ https://www.facebook.com/LondonMusicShowcase

We meet up in Hyde Park (Just to the West of the Rose Garden - see pin on the map). The guitars will give us away so we can recognise each other in the mass of other people. From there, we sit on the grass, and after some introductions, we start jamming. My genres are: rock, blues, folk, singer-songwriter but anything goes. For jamming, we'll pick a chord progression, something not too complicated and then we take turn to improvise melodies on top of it (both guitar solos but also vocalising). Intermediate level and above ideally but any level welcome but you should probably be able to play some chords (to get the most out of it). Other things we will do: 1. We can play songs - whoever wants to, not going to go round the circle forcing people to play. The songs can be either originals (your own songs) or known songs. 2. We can chat about music or other things 3. Have a drink - bring your fave drink (wine, beer, non-alcoholic) 4. Food goes too (bring your own) When we've had enough, we say goodbye and go home. People can leave early too if they've got other stuff to do or the whole thing is not their vibe (no hard feelings). All of that is weather permitting. If it rains, it's not happening - unless someone suggests a free venue (I don't know one :-)

👀 Something is happening… The best way I can describe it is like one member said to me: ‘Tim - It’s like freshers week, every week, but better, with bands and stuff…’ and that’s how it’s been over the last 7 years since we created this group. It’s honestly the most fun we’ve had and I’m inviting everyone of you because something’s been happening for a while now and you just don’t know about it…It’s a Showcase of some of the Best London bands playing their music in London - and it’s also a MEETUP group, so you can watch the gig with a mix of regular members and newcomers. Feel free to come on your own or bring your friends and meet new people. Look for the ‘MEETUP SIGN’ or ask the Host on the Door when you arrive. It’s an awesome line-up and at one of the Top Venues in London - Great place for a beer, meet new people and see some amazing unsigned bands! 🔥🔥🚒🍻 \* ‼️ THE ULTIMATE LONDON GIG MEETUP! ‼️ LONDON MUSIC SHOWCASE Presents: Hope and Anchor May 31st SUNDAY [SCARLETT JESSICA](https://www.instagram.com/scarlettjessicaa?igsh=Z2NpcDl3aGE4amIy)\- Headliner [COMMUNICATE PROJECT](https://www.instagram.com/communicateproject?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [IN ALBION](https://linktr.ee/Albionband?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=350fa3f7-6504-4852-ad32-64a79d6f8ee0) [KAFIRAT](https://www.instagram.com/kafiratofficial?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [THE CLAVERTONS](https://www.instagram.com/theclavertons?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [EASY ON](https://www.instagram.com/easyonuk?igsh=MTBieng3YW5rNGFjaQ==) \* There aren’t enough emojis for this, so I’ll keep it simple: BE THERE. If you’ve been to the MEET-UPS over the last 7 years, you’ll know what it’s all about so come down, bring your friends, bring your foes, cancel your wedding, book Granny out of the retirement home. Whatever it takes, she won’t want miss it 😄🍻 \* WHATSAPP GROUP: We’re a friendly mix; English, French, Australian, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish and Japanese people so I’m sure you will meet someone that shares a passion for Rocking Music. Don't worry if attendance looks low, we are meeting other Meetup / WhatsApp / Facebook Groups and a lot of my friends don't RSVP. I can also add you to the Event’s WHATSAPP GROUP if you are interested in joining - Just message me your number. \* ***IMPORTANT*** This is a TICKETED EVENT: If you would like to come, simply message me directly through this Group and I will send you the details on how to download a DISCOUNTED TICKET (Click my profile - there is an icon at the top for Private Messages) \* DISCLAIMER: I work for the Venue / Promoters. It’s just for fun nights and meeting people. We are not responsible for you or your belongings. By attending this event you agree to waiver liability for the Host :) Please bring ID to events as some are 18+. You may appear in photos/videos of the gig. Thank you \* All Gig Meetups here 👀‼️👇 https://dice.fm/promoters/london-music-showcase-6ko3 https://www.instagram.com/londonmusicshowcase/ https://www.meetup.com/London-Music-Showcase-Gigs-Drinks/ https://www.facebook.com/LondonMusicShowcase

Calling all Queer singers, songwriters, poets, public speakers, and performers... Join Queer Open Mic London at legendary venue [The Cock Tavern](https://www.thecocktavernlondon.com/) for a night of artistic expression from the LGBTQIA+ community. **If you'd like to perform please get in touch with Josh (co-organiser) beforehand to secure your slot. You can click on his profile to message him, give him a shout in the event chat on this page, or contact him [on Instagram](www.instagram.com/joshandthejumpstarts/).** This event is designed as an informal showcase for Queer performers. Non-Queer friends and allies are more than welcome in the audience. **Sunday 31st May, 2026** **5:30pm-8:30pm** **The Cock Tavern** 340 Kennington Rd London SE11 4LD Local buses within minutes of the venue include 3, 59, 133, 155, 159, 196, 333, and 415. Oval Underground station is 8 minutes walking away while Kennington Underground station is 10 minutes walking. Vauxhall station is 14 minutes walking from the venue, or a short bus ride. *Queer Open Mic is a free entry event and you can support the event and the venue by purchasing drinks at the bar. Absolutely no outside drinks are permitted.*

👀 Something is happening… The best way I can describe it is like one member said to me: ‘Tim - It’s like freshers week, every week, but better, with bands and stuff…’ and that’s how it’s been over the last 7 years since we created this group. It’s honestly the most fun we’ve had and I’m inviting everyone of you because something’s been happening for a while now and you just don’t know about it…It’s a Showcase of some of the Best London bands playing their music in London - and it’s also a MEETUP group, so you can watch the gig with a mix of regular members and newcomers. Feel free to come on your own or bring your friends and meet new people. Look for the ‘MEETUP SIGN’ or ask the Host on the Door when you arrive. It’s an awesome line-up and at one of the Top Venues in London - Great place for a beer, meet new people and see some amazing unsigned bands! 🔥🔥🚒🍻 \* ‼️ THE ULTIMATE LONDON GIG MEETUP! ‼️ LONDON MUSIC SHOWCASE Presents: Hope and Anchor May 31st SUNDAY [SCARLETT JESSICA](https://www.instagram.com/scarlettjessicaa?igsh=Z2NpcDl3aGE4amIy)\- Headliner [COMMUNICATE PROJECT](https://www.instagram.com/communicateproject?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [IN ALBION](https://linktr.ee/Albionband?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=350fa3f7-6504-4852-ad32-64a79d6f8ee0) [KAFIRAT](https://www.instagram.com/kafiratofficial?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [THE CLAVERTONS](https://www.instagram.com/theclavertons?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==) [EASY ON](https://www.instagram.com/easyonuk?igsh=MTBieng3YW5rNGFjaQ==) \* There aren’t enough emojis for this, so I’ll keep it simple: BE THERE. If you’ve been to the MEET-UPS over the last 7 years, you’ll know what it’s all about so come down, bring your friends, bring your foes, cancel your wedding, book Granny out of the retirement home. Whatever it takes, she won’t want miss it 😄🍻 \* WHATSAPP GROUP: We’re a friendly mix; English, French, Australian, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish and Japanese people so I’m sure you will meet someone that shares a passion for Rocking Music. Don't worry if attendance looks low, we are meeting other Meetup / WhatsApp / Facebook Groups and a lot of my friends don't RSVP. I can also add you to the Event’s WHATSAPP GROUP if you are interested in joining - Just message me your number. \* ***IMPORTANT*** This is a TICKETED EVENT: If you would like to come, simply message me directly through this Group and I will send you the details on how to download a DISCOUNTED TICKET (Click my profile - there is an icon at the top for Private Messages) \* DISCLAIMER: I work for the Venue / Promoters. It’s just for fun nights and meeting people. We are not responsible for you or your belongings. By attending this event you agree to waiver liability for the Host :) Please bring ID to events as some are 18+. You may appear in photos/videos of the gig. Thank you \* All Gig Meetups here 👀‼️👇 https://dice.fm/promoters/london-music-showcase-6ko3 https://www.instagram.com/londonmusicshowcase/ https://www.meetup.com/London-Music-Showcase-Gigs-Drinks/ https://www.facebook.com/LondonMusicShowcase

**Hostess: Layla** \*This event is a collaboration with other 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/avr6zd42/slow-dating-37-54-in-shoreditch-happy-hour](https://www.fatsoma.com/e/avr6zd42/slow-dating-37-54-in-shoreditch-happy-hour) Age range: 37-54 ( as a general guide) Join us for a fun and relaxed night of a slow dating and socialising in Shoreditch! Αre you finding 4 mins too little time to decide if you wish to meet the other person again or not? Don't worry, come slow dating and have 6-8 minutes dates! Speak with 10-15 people of the opposite sex for 6-8 mins each then select who you like and leave with the contact details of some potential lovers! After the slow dating we stay for socialising so you speak more to the people who you like! The next day you will receive the contact details\* of your mutual matches (people you have selected and they have selected you back) at your e-mail! We don't send you to date in a online platform...We send you to date in real life with confidence!  We run speed and slow dating events for more than a decade now and we are proud to say that they actually work! People that meet in our dating events date after, some make long term relationships, and some move together and we even had some marriages ! If this is your first time attending a slow dating there is nothing to worry about , we will be there to welcome you, put you at ease and explain you the process. Simmons Shoreditch is a quirky cocktail bar, famed for its rogue aesthetic, bringing an off-kilter addition to the streets of the East. Just off Shoreditch High Street. Blaring neons, skull disco balls and waltzer-style booths all add to the charm! The program of the night is 5:30-6:00 Registration 6:00pm-6:45pm First session of the Slow Dating 6:45pm-7:00pm Break-Socialising 7:00pm-7:45 pm Second session of Slow Dating 7:45pm Speed Dating finishes and Socialising starts How to find us: Just come inside and ask for Marianna's Speed Dating / Layla. Any issue on the night feel free to call Layla: 07377544606 For general inquires or difficulties with your ticket booking feel free to e-mail us at benetoupromotions@gmail.com or call Marianna on: 07949526733 \* By participating to the event you agree to have your details that you submitted to us passed to your mutual matches ( people that you will select on the form that will be given to you during the event and they will select you back). \*Our company is registered with ICO. so you contact details are safe with us Please Note: -Tickets need to be bought online and are not available at the door -Dress code: Elegant/Smart/Office Attire/Smart Casual ( Smart jeans are alright but ripped jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, sportwear, sportshoes or trainers are not allowed) -A valid proof of ID (Passport, Driving License, or National ID) is required upon arrival independently of the age for security reasons

Our Agbé beginners access 3 hour Sunday afternoon workshop covers the basic techniques and rhythms for Maracatu on the Agbé (Shekere). An Agbê is a large, dried gourd or calabash that has been cleaned, polished, and covered with a net of beads. It is played by shaking using both hands, and is accompanied by choreographed dance moves. No previous musical skills required. Instrument provided. Our community of percussionists (and dancers) is a friendly family of people from all over the world who have come together to meet new people and share a love for music, dance, and expression. Joining our classes is not just an opportunity to learn something new, it's a chance to meet a new group of people who regularly organise social events and perform together at events across London and the UK. 📅 Sunday 31st May ⏰ 2–5pm 📍 Dance Attic Studios, Fulham, SW6 1LY 🎟 £25 Maracatu is a traditional form of carnival percussion, that has deep roots in Afro-Brazilian traditions, and a major form of carnival in Recife, Brazil. It's the rootsy 'grandad' of Samba. **Find out more and book your place at:** **www.baquedeaxe.com/beginners-workshops**

Class is now sold out. Date: Sunday 31st May 2026 Time: 14:30-17:00 Location: The Lift, Islington

Kick off your week with music, movement, and great vibes. Come solo or with friends—no partner needed! **Schedule (This Sunday):** • 6:00 PM – Free Bachata Taster • 6:30 PM – Bachata Classes (3 Levels) • 7:30 PM – Salsa Classes (3 Levels) • 8:30 PM–23:00 AM – FREE Social Dancing (Salsa, Bachata, a touch of Kiz) **What to expect:** • Friendly teachers, clear level splits, and lots of practice time • Great music and a welcoming crowd for all levels—absolute beginners to improvers • Central location, easy transport, and good vibes all night **Why social dancing is good for you:** Social dancing is a fun workout that boosts your cardio, coordination, and posture—without feeling like “exercise.” It reduces stress, fires up your brain with musical timing and footwork patterns, and improves confidence through gentle challenges and quick wins. Dancing with different partners builds connection, empathy, and communication skills (you literally learn to “listen” with your body). It’s also an incredible way to make friends and feel part of a community—one song at a time. Good to know: • No partner or experience required • Wear comfy shoes, bring water, and arrive a bit early for level check-in • Classes start right on time—don’t miss your warm-up! Price: £10 one class £15 two classes 6:00 PM class is FREE intro to bachata RSVP now so we can plan levels and floor space. See you on the dance floor! 💃🕺

Join us for guided meditation, movement and stillness intersperse with relaxing piano music.

**ENJOY TANGO WITH US!** Join us at the welcoming and professionally-run weekly classes and Milonga at Los Angelitos, London’s friendliest tango social dancing space. Start your afternoon with classes: * first for complete beginners at 2pm for your first steps * also at 2pm the Improver class for those with a little more experience * at 3pm by the Intermediate and Advanced class covering more challenging technique and steps Classes by various professionals with a long experience. After the lesson enjoy the social dancing, with traditional music by different TDJs, the Buenos Aires style with tandas and cortinas. Our hall features a smooth wooden floor, plenty of space, tables that can be reserved for groups of 6+, and a great atmostphere. Plus with free cakes and drinks on Sunday afternoon to keep you dancing. **COSTS: PAY BY CASH AT THE TILL** * Beginner class or improver class (one hour): normally £15 but if it is your first class, RSVP with Meetup and we offer you £5 OFF :-). * Intermediate and up class at 3pm: £20. * Milonga: £12 only including free drinks and cakes A perfect Sunday! This week's programme and costs: **[https://tanguito.co.uk/sunday/](https://tanguito.co.uk/sunday/)** A bailar! The team at Tanguito

The Alliance is part of the Greater Central Ohio Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society. We are an all-voices chorus dedicated to providing an inclusive environment for all those who love to sing, regardless of their race, gender identity, sexual orientation or musical background. The Alliance is the first and only all-voices barbershop chorus in Central Ohio. **Who:** Anyone with a passion for singing at a high level. Previous barbershop chorus/quartet experience not required. **When:** The Alliance rehearses weekly on Thursdays from 7pm-10pm. **Where:** Lord Of Life Lutheran Church: 2480 W Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43235 To become a full member of The Alliance, we welcome you to start by visiting us for a few rehearsals to experience the group and sing with us! Then, you may begin the 2-part audition process for membership: the assessement, and audition. We strive to make our auditions as stress-free as possible to help you let your best singing self shine.

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

**✅ Bachata Mondays with Todd Smith!** **👉 Beginner Bachata Class** **$15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 7:00 pm – 7:15 pm … Registration 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm … Beginner Class **👉 Intermediate Bachata Class** **= $15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 8:15 pm – 8:30 pm Registration 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Intermediate Class **👉 If You Take Both Bachata Classes** **= $25 In Advance / $35 At the Door** **👉 Buy Advance Tickets Now at:** https://columbussalsadancing.com/bachata-mondays-dance-class-tickets/

**History** The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)’s roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood. In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatory’s 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio. A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization. In 2003, the conservatory’s identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihuly’s work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden. Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children’s Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community. **Maps of the Conservatory** Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below). **Summary** For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year. Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now. **Tickets and pricing** On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20. Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4. Parking is always free. If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000. **Where we'll meet** We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather. **Your GPS is stupid!** Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you. The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road. If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West. You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive. \* Don't really do this. **After the event** After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu). The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event. We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.