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Yes! Check out new to ottawa events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the new to ottawa events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
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Underwater Hockey (open to new players!)
New players are always welcome to come try it out!
What you need:
A bathing suit. Preferably something light and tight.
We have extra gear for new players. But if you have your own pair of flippers, a snorkeling mask, and a snorkel then bring them along.
Please bring this signed and completed form to practice:
https://cdn1.sportngin.com/attachments/document/c7dc-2321473/USOA_Waiver_2022-07-07.pdf
Unless you are already a member of USOA:
https://www.underwater-society.org/page/show/4284471-usoa-registration
To find us:
You can tell the front desk that you are here for underwater hockey and they will let you in for free. You can ask them for help finding the pool.
If no one is at the front desk just walk past it and there will be a set of stairs on the left. Take the stairs and take a right at the bottom of the stairs. The men's and women's locker rooms are straight ahead, and you will need to go through them to access the pool deck. Once you are out on the pool deck you will be exactly where we practice.
Agenda:
First 15 minutes: Arrival at the pool, getting gear from the shared gear bin, dividing into two teams, getting gear on.
Minutes 15-30: Getting in the water, teaching any new players the basics
Minutes 20-70: Scrimmage/practice.
Minutes 70-75: Putting away club gear, putting the lane lines back in place, clearing the pool deck.
(optional) afterwards: Go to a local restaurant for food, drinks, and socializing.
Best of Bars Series: Punchbowl Social
Next up on the Best of Bars series - meeting up at Punchbowl Social in the Ballston Quarter Shopping Center!
đ Food, Games & Vibes: Punchbowl Social is a 3-floor bar and restaurant. The top floor has everything from arcades, to bowling, darts, and foosball. There's also a comfortable outdoor patio area if the weather's nice. Their happy hour menu (until 6:30pm) has select cocktails and beers for $5-6, and select bites and snacks ranging mostly around $5-8. The non-HH food and cocktail menus also have a wide selection to choose from.
View the menus at this link, and scroll to the bottom: [https://punchbowlsocial.com/location/arlington](https://punchbowlsocial.com/location/arlington)
đ¤ Meet & Mingle: This hangout is all about the social vibe â chatting, laughing, and meeting other young professionals while enjoying great food and drinks. Each floor has a different vibe, so come meet and explore the place, and find your nook to hang out with if you want to branch off of the main group! **We will aim to meet at the 2nd floor bar, since it's a better setting for socializing.**
**đPunchbowl Social Location + details:**
4238 Wilson Blvd.Suite 1180
Arlington, VA 22203
**Happy Hour 3-6:30pm**
**HH Food/Drink Menu:**
[https://punchbowlsocial.com/happy-hour](https://punchbowlsocial.com/happy-hour)
### đ
żď¸**Parking:**
Cheapest parking around is to park in the Ballston Public Parking garage next-door to the bar.
627 N Glebe Rd, Arlington, VA 22203
Rates:
Up to 3 hours, $1
3-4 hours, $3
4-5 hours, $5
### **đTransit:**
Take the Orange/Silver lines to Ballston-MU stop, walk 2 blocks east to N Randolph St. Turn right and walk south 2 blocks. https://maps.app.goo.gl/RsQFQkfynrQcBkB96
LGBTQ+ Dinner at Longhorn Steak House in Chantilly! RSVP REQUIRED!
â¨đ˝ď¸ **Girl, put down that spatulaâDTs is hitting Longhorn Steakhouse!** đĽŠđ
Who needs to cook when you can kiki over juicy steaks, fabulous sides, and fierce friends? After our glam Thursday Happy Hour, strut your stuff to **[Longhorn Steakhouse](https://www.longhornsteakhouse.com/locations/va/chantilly/chantilly/5222?cmpid=br:lh_ag:ie_ch:loc_ca:LHGMB_sn:gmb_gt:chantilly-va-5222_pl:locurl_rd:1175)** at **[14056 Thunderbolt Pl, Chantilly, VA 20151](https://maps.app.goo.gl/D5WNjEyTroVjJE1p7)**âour hottest dinner spot yet, with 23 queens and kings joining last time alone!
đ **A gentle (but serious) note from your favorite event diva:**
Please, darling, RSVP if you're planning to attend. The restaurant is amazing, but they're not magiciansâand last-minute seat scrambles can leave you perched at the bar like leftovers. Letâs show our hosts (and each other!) a little love and respect.
â
**Spill the tea (and RSVP!)** on our Facebook and Meetup pages, honey, because this dinner fills faster than a drag queenâs dressing room! Walk-ins are cute, but securing your seat is the real diva move. đââď¸â¨
đ Keep your eyes peeledâevery Thursday serves up something fresh, fabulous, and tasty with your DT family! đ˝ď¸đ
SSB Presents: New Spot Night Out at Tommy Joeâs featuring Pop-Up Audio Band
Social Sips & Bites - itâs time for another epic night out!
Weâre heading to Tommy Joeâs for a high-energy evening packed with great drinks, loud sing-along moments, and that unbeatable SSB vibe.
Weâll roll in at 7:00 PM to grab drinks, take over some space, and warm things up before the band hits.
**Pop-Up Audio** is bringing the heat with rock, alt rock, and pop hits from the â80s to today â the kind of songs that have you singing at the top of your lungs and dancing without even realizing it.
Come early. Stay late. Bring a friend.
Expect strong drinks, big laughs, and a dance floor that wonât quit.
Letâs make it another legendary SSB night.
ONLINE Happy Hour
Canât make it out in person? Join your **DTs friends** for our Weekly Virtual Happy Hour â a relaxed, welcoming space to unwind, chat, and connect from wherever you are.
Whether youâre catching up with familiar faces or meeting new people for the first time, Virtual Happy Hour is all about easy conversation, shared laughs, and low-pressure connection. Bring your favorite drink, get comfortable, and drop in when you can.
⨠**No RSVP needed. Just click the link and join.**
Come relax, connect, and **find your tribe** with DTs â from anywhere. đđť
Join in via Google Meet: [https://meet.google.com/jvc-ajhk-vci](https://meet.google.com/jvc-ajhk-vci)
New to Ottawa Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Exploring Ethiopian Culture Through Cuisine at Enatye
Food is one of the most meaningful ways to experience culture â and Ethiopian cuisine is rooted in community, tradition, and bold, layered flavors.
Join the Global Food & Culture group as we gather at Enatye Ethiopian Restaurant to explore traditional dishes served on injera. If youâre open to sharing, we can create a few shared platters so everyone can sample a variety of dishes â but individual ordering is perfectly fine too.
Enatye is a small restaurant and does not make reservations so they recommended the 2-4 pm time frame. Weâre initially capping this at 12 guests to keep the experience comfortable and conversational. If interest is strong and the restaurant can accommodate, we may open additional spots. The good news is that they will bill each of us separately!
Come hungry. Come curious. And come ready to connect around the table.
Sunday Brunch Social: Meet New Friends
â ď¸ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:**
[https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/)
**This is a curated, small-group meetup make new friends in Washington.**
Each meetup brings together 4â6 like-minded people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to organize and ensure everyoneâs a good fit.
đ **To attend, youâll need to complete registration via this link:**
[https://groupvibe.com](https://groupvibe.com)
Once you register, and **buy a ticket or become a Groupvibe member**, weâll share the exact location and match you with your group.
**Why this works:**
\* Smaller groups make real conversations easier
\* Matching helps avoid awkward dynamics
**Note:**
RSVPs here on Meetup donât reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website.
This meetup is organized by **Groupvibe**, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.
Third Eye Awakening â Trataka Meditation
đ Third Eye Awakening â Trataka Meditation đ
đŻď¸ A powerful **Tantric meditation** to still the mind and ignite inner vision. This guided session welcomes everyoneâwhether youâre seeking mental clarity, better focus, physical wellness, or deeper spiritual awakening.
## ⨠What is Trataka?
Trataka, rooted in Tantric and Hatha Yoga traditions, is the ancient art of steady gazing. By focusing on a candle flame or sacred image, the eyes become still, the mind quiets, and the third eye (Ajna Chakra) begins to awaken.
## đż What to Expect
* A calm, supportive meditative space
* External gazing on a candle or sacred object
* Inner visualization at the Ajna Chakra (third eye)
* Guided transitions between outer stillness and inner presence
## đ¸ Benefits
**Physical:** Strengthens eye muscles, relieves digital strain, balances nervous system.
**Mental:** Builds deep concentration, eases anxiety, clears subconscious clutter.
**Spiritual:** Awakens intuition, opens inner vision, prepares for higher states of meditation.
## đĽ Who Is It For?
Beginners and experienced meditators alike. All you need is an open heart and willingness to explore beyond the surface.
đ
**Date & Time:** Saturday\,March 14\,2026 \|9:00am\-12:00pm
đ **Location:** DhyanYoga Meditation Center, Centreville, VA
đ **Suggested Contribution:** $20
đ Reserve your spot here:
[https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/third-eye-awakening](https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/third-eye-awakening)
Glenstone Museum - Sunday Sightseeing
\* Please RSVP Only With Confirmed Attendance \*
I have reserved timed-entry passes to visit the incredible Glenstone Museum.
Parking and entry are free.
https://www.glenstone.org/
"We're a museum located just outside Washington, D.C. â a space where you can slow down, be in nature, and engage directly with art. Whether you're visiting for the first or fifth time, Glenstone is here to give you a space for ongoing reflection and contemplation."
We will meet @1245 in the welcome center lobby.
Take a Hike! @ Difficult Run to Great Falls Park
Join us for an easy hike along the **Difficult Run Trail to Great Falls Park** and kick off your day with **great company** and engaging conversations! The trail is **mostly flat**, but a **246-foot incline within Great Falls Park** will give us a fun little cardio challenge. Donât worry - weâll pause at the top to regroup, hydrate, and catch our breath while soaking in the views. Whether you're here for the exercise, the scenery, or the chance to meet like-minded people, this hike has something for everyone!
This trail is packed with sights: enjoy picturesque views along Difficult Run Stream and breathtaking overlooks of the Potomac River from up high. Weâll even come across a picnic table at the top of one incline, the perfect spot to rest, take in the view, and soak up some good vibes!
Afterward, join us for an optional lunch at Mookie's BBQ to relax and unwind after our hike.
**Meeting Time & Location**
Meet at 9:30 AM at [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7). If you're running a bit late, you can catch up with us at the Difficult Run parking lot off Georgetown Pike - weâll pass through about 30 minutes into the hike.
**Distance:** 5 miles
**Difficulty:** Easy (246 feet of elevation gain)
This hike is rated Easy for its gentle terrain, wide paths, and manageable 246 feet of elevation gain.
* **Easy Water Crossing:** Large stepping stones make the stream crossing simple and safe.
* **No Rock Scrambling or Steep Climbs:** The trail has no steep rocky sections or scrambling required.
* **Mild Inclines:** The mostly flat route includes a gentle 246 foot incline within Great Falls Park.
**Pace:** Moderate Pace
A steady, comfortable pace thatâs manageable for most hikers with a reasonable fitness level. Breaks are regular but not overly frequent, allowing for a balanced experience of exercise and enjoyment.
**Parking**
Plenty of parking is available. You can park off Route 683 by [Cross County Trail Access Point (Leigh Mill Rd & Kelso Rd)](https://maps.app.goo.gl/btDGQg7gphrVJdmB7) (be sure to park head-in, with your car clear of the street). Additional parking is on the shoulder of Kelso Road. The trailhead is at the intersection of Route 683 and Kelso Road, marked with a crosswalk.
**Trail Map (AllTrails):** [Take a Hike! (DMV) - Difficult Run to Great Falls Park](https://www.alltrails.com/explore/map/difficult-run-from-683-23fa71c)
**Dog Attendance**
For everyoneâs comfort and enjoyment, we kindly ask that you leave your dogs at home for this hike. Thank you for understanding!
**Lunch After the Hike**
Join us for an optional lunch after the hike at **Mookie's BBQ, 1141 Walker Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066**. Itâs a perfect way to relax and unwind after our time outdoors!
Under the Covers @ Rai's!!! (Quantum Leap date has been moved)
Hey Everyone! There's been a Band change - and it's a GREAT ONE!
Under The Covers is NOW PLAYING!
Let's show them The NOVA Live Music Mingle LOVE!
Plus our friends from Social Sips and Bites will be there too!
Whatever you want! Pop, Rock, Dance and Top - UTC has it COVERED!
Hailing from Baltimore, these 5 young gents will turn up any audience with their top hits coupled with the most explosive stage performance in the Mid-Atlantic Region. Charismatic frontman, Brian Bourne, finds the pulse of the crowd early and engages them often for truly interactive, unique and personal experience. Come find out what the hype is all about.
New to Ottawa Events Near You
Connect with your local New to Ottawa community
âď¸ St. Patrickâs Celebration at Kalypsoâs Sports Tavern âď¸
Social Sips & Bites family - itâs time to wear your green and bring your Irish spirit.
Weâre heading to Kalypsoâs Tavern for a St. Patrickâs celebration packed with festive vibes, great company, and special deals on food and drinks.
What to expect:
⢠Irish favorites like corned beef & cabbage
⢠Shepherdâs pie and other hearty classics
⢠Guinness specials
⢠A lively crowd and that classic SSB energy
Whether youâre coming for the food, the drinks, or just the fun, this is one of those nights you donât want to miss.
Come hungry. Come social. Letâs turn Kalypsoâs green together. đ
Sacred Sleep: Awakening to the Power of Dreams â ECKANKAR Booth & Workshop
**Please join us for an unforgettable exploration of mind, body, and spirit!**
ECKANKAR of Northern Virginia will host a booth and lead a lively discussion about how to embrace Soulâs highest destiny of freedom, joy, and divine love in **this** life.
The Expo is at Hilton McLean Tysons Corner, 7920 Jones Branch Drive, McLean, VA 22102. The hours are 10 am to 6 pm, but youâre free to arrive and depart at any time.
A preliminary copy of our workshop poster is available at:
[https://eck-va.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Table-Sign-for-2026-Expo-Rev-2a.pdf](https://eck-va.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Table-Sign-for-2026-Expo-Rev-2a.pdf)
**When the start time and room location for our workshop is announced, weâll post it here, in an update of this posting.**
Donât miss this opportunity to share with other spiritual explorers and pick up **free** copies of books and brochures filled with practical tips and inspiring stories.
Weâll see you there!
Live Music Night with Pool Boys - Jimmyâs Tavern
Join us for a high-energy night of live music with one of the popular DC-area bands! Pool Boys!
Pool Boys are a rock cover band from Herndon, VA specializing in an eclectic mix of rock, pop and hip-hop cover songs from the last 30 years. Brothers in music, Jim Welfley locks in the beat on drums, Steve Linstrom nails down the bottom end on bass, and Dan Blanchet delivers the main melody on guitar and lead vocals.
Great music. Great people. See you at Jimmyâs Old Town Tavern.
Underwater Hockey (open to new players!)
New players are always welcome to come try it out!
What you need:
A bathing suit. Preferably something light and tight.
We have extra gear for new players. But if you have your own pair of flippers, a snorkeling mask, and a snorkel then bring them along.
Please bring this signed and completed form to practice:
https://cdn1.sportngin.com/attachments/document/c7dc-2321473/USOA_Waiver_2022-07-07.pdf
Unless you are already a member of USOA:
https://www.underwater-society.org/page/show/4284471-usoa-registration
To find us:
You can tell the front desk that you are here for underwater hockey and they will let you in for free. You can ask them for help finding the pool.
If no one is at the front desk just walk past it and there will be a set of stairs on the left. Take the stairs and take a right at the bottom of the stairs. The men's and women's locker rooms are straight ahead, and you will need to go through them to access the pool deck. Once you are out on the pool deck you will be exactly where we practice.
Agenda:
First 15 minutes: Arrival at the pool, getting gear from the shared gear bin, dividing into two teams, getting gear on.
Minutes 15-30: Getting in the water, teaching any new players the basics
Minutes 20-70: Scrimmage/practice.
Minutes 70-75: Putting away club gear, putting the lane lines back in place, clearing the pool deck.
(optional) afterwards: Go to a local restaurant for food, drinks, and socializing.
20s/30s Coffee Meetup - Weird Brothers Coffee
Regular coffee meetup for people to meet, make new friends, or enjoy general conversations with coffee. Great for those who are new in town or looking for new activities to do!
This will be held at Weird Brothers Coffee at Worldgate Centre in Herndon.
Additional Note: If you are on the Wait List, you can still feel free to attend if you wish.
Intro to Outdoor Rock Climbing for Newbies
**IMPORTANT:** This event is weather relate, if rain is forecast for the event date it will be reschedule.
READ whole event details.
**Pay to Play - $25 x spot**
Send payment using Zelle or Venmo at:
Darwin Castillo - 202-848-2436
You will be add to the go list as soon event fee is send.
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If you have ever wondered what outdoor rock climbing is all about this is a great opportunity for you to give it a try...You will be hooked on a new activity and I will be your personal coach, we both will make this happen.
The DC Wild Outdoor Adventurers members will be there to help, we fit you in a harness, get you a pair of climbing shoes, and give you all the intel you need to know to get you started in this trilling sport.
The clinic itself will show novice climbers the basic skills necessary to safely rock climb and scale rock walls with confidence.
Specific items covered in the class: knot craft, harness wear and adjustment, belaying, climbing techniques, and climbing safety.
Participants will spend the remainder of the class practicing the skills and climbing.
**Clinic hours**: 9:00AM-2:00PM.
**Meet at**: Carderock Recreational Area
Be on time, you may wont find us as soon we move from the parking lot.
The clinic will start promptly at 9:00am and last until about 2:00pm.
**Important:** If weather is adverse to our purposes (rain) event will be reschedule.
**What to bring:** We are climbing through lunch time, so make sure you bring plenty of water, snacks, and lunch to keep you going, bug spray maybe necessary
**What to wear:** Look at the weather conditions the day prior to the event and wear accordingly.
**Equipment**:: All equipment (Helmets, harness, climbing shoes, ropes, etc.) will be provided.
**Where to meet**: Carderock Rock climbers parking, as soon you crosse the bridge go right to the last parking lot.
**Google maps**: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f6rWprhNQK3Lwy2e6
**GPS coordinates**: 38.976094, -77.205624
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Climbing is a dangerous sport and serious injury may and can happen
You are solely and completely responsible for choosing outings and activities that are within your physical and medical ability level, for taking proper clothing, provisions, and equipment along on outings to provide for your personal comfort and for making appropriate decisions to ensure your very own safety.
By reserving and or participating in any of our activities you have agree to all the term stated on our Liability waiver:
[https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hgXQ3bWkQqli5zQuYWmluK8I_pQ9IE2q/view?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hgXQ3bWkQqli5zQuYWmluK8I_pQ9IE2q/view?usp=sharing)




















