Seattle

**NEW EVENT!!!** Please be sure to RSVP on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1988707128556?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest list. Pink Poodle Club is Spark's weekly Yappy Hour — every Monday on the back patio from 5–7pm. $1 Scooby Snacks for hoomans and $1 pup cups for the doggos. Come join us for a fun and **dog-friendly** gathering! It’s the perfect chance to meet new people, share stories, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with the **LGBTQ+ community**. Whether you're looking to make friends or just hang out, everyone’s welcome. Grab your favorite drink and let’s make some great memories together! This event is free to attend. We hope to see you there. In addition to coffee selections, the venue offers a good food and drinks [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2 "https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2"). We encourage you to register your attendance in advance. We hope to see you there. When you arrive with your dog, order on your own from the [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2 "https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2"). Then meet and mingle with LGBTQ+ folk and their dogs on the back patio. **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. U Street Metro (Yellow/Green line) is only a few blocks away. Take the 13th Street Exit. The venue is adjacent to Crush Bar. This event is a safe space for everyone under the rainbow. Please feel free to invite all your friends to join you there! This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com "https://www.gogaydc.com")**, Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com "https://www.gogaydc.com") . Go Gay DC's founder is **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/ "https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/")**. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Two-Spirit Straight Allies

_Games this month:_ the birds and the bees! Wingspan, Apiary, and more! **A note from the organizers:** We see that this is becoming a popular event and so there's not a ton of space available for general non Patreon members rsvp'ing via meetup. Space is limited by how many volunteers we have to host games each month, and first access goes to the members of the Patreon who support everything DCGG does. We have the goal to train and provide additional staff for this event as we gain capacity. **Note: If you are a member of the Patreon and have already secured early access via the form you do NOT need to RSVP on Meetup.** By popular demand and with the amazing friendship of the Highbinder Bar, we are introducing the **Charcuterie Board!** These are meaty games for experienced tabletop players or players who are comfortable with complexity. **About the Games** This series will focus on bringing experienced tabletop fans and meaty games together. These games will include titles with rulesets that are a bit more complex, take a bit more time, and are often strategic and competitive. DCGG will curate the games and provide trained game hosts to help get games going quickly and make sure all players are supported as they learn and engage with the games. The month's games will be in the title of this event. **Who this event is for:** Self-declared board game enthusiasts and/or people people looking to get into the hobby of tabletop games. While our game hosts will be there to help explain the game and rules, this event is targeted at players who are comfortable learning lots of rules and dedicating a few hours to a single game. And as always, DCGG enforces polite and healthy play spaces. **Not into complex games or just not ready for the meaty games?** Please explore our other events, such as Meat You at Fat Pete's or Rhythm and Brews, which have more party-focused and easy- to mid-level games. **What if we don't have enough players?** Through the power of teamwork and friendship, we will find a way for everyone to play and have a good time. **Please arrive on time, or else your space will be forfeit (cuz we often cant wait for people to get games going).** **BUT WAIT THERES MORE:** If you are interested in becoming a Supporting Member and enjoying perks like: * **Early RSVP Access:** Supporting Members will get early access to RSVPing to regular events. * **Town Hall meeting:** Supporting Members will be invited to participate in town halls and polls that will help determine how revenue past operating costs is directed. * **Discounted Ticket:** In the event that DCGG hosts paid ticketed events in the future, Supporting Members will be offered discounted prices. * The knowledge that you make all this possible! Visit the Patreon here: https://www.patreon.com/DCGamingGroup Feel free to join the DC Gaming Community by hopping into the Discord: https://discord.gg/NP7v7VF **Disclaimer and Community Code of Conduct:** The DC Gaming Group is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive space for participants. to learn more about our code of conduct you can read more here. Events may be recorded for promotional materials.

Join me on a meandering walk through the Eckington and Edgewood neighborhoods. This walk will either end at Right Proper Brewing for those who want to hang out a bit longer or Rhode Island Ave metro. **Time:** \~6:30pm-8:45pm **Start Location:** NoMA Metro Station, North Entrance/Exit **Exit Location:** Right Proper Brewing and/or Rhode Island Ave metro **Map:** [Kamoot](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2931779617?share_token=alLryfy0HGI6Uf1HnDmf85q6uDYaIBPbODFkQiZGBE9ElWBWRF&ref=wtd&t_s=referral&t_cid=route_share&t_ref_username=5208720834658), [Caltopo](https://caltopo.com/m/RQNT53R) **Millage:** 4.7 mi **Terrain:** There will mostly be paved and level ground. \-\-\- We try to be punctual with our event times so please be respectful to others and show up a few minutes early. Note, we often limit the RSVPs to keep group sizes manageable. If you are on the waitlist but would really like to join, reach out to the organizer. Our events prioritize metro accessibility by meeting and ending at metro stations. Sometimes we start/stop at the same station, sometimes we do not. Please double check the event description to see if you can manage transportation. If you've enjoyed our walks please consider donating a few bucks to help us keep this group running (meetup is expensive!). [Donation Link](https://venmo.com/code?user_id=2158403661070336114)

There is no doubt that spring is Japan’s most beautiful season. When the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, people gather in parks between late March to early April to enjoy the beautiful pink flowers all over the country. Experience the wonderful spring flowers and the most famous sights in Japan on this tour package. Time to check off your next Bucket List Destination. Highlights Visited Places: * Tokyo * Mt. Fuji, Hakone * Hikone * Kyoto * Fushimi Inari Shrine * Nara Travel Experience: * Local culture & cuisine * Pure nature / Bamboo forest * Scenic drives * Museum, Temple * Sightseeing * Zoo / Wildlife * Bullet train ride * Cherry Blossom (Mar-May) * Tea ceremony * Shopping Tour Start Tokyo Tour End Kyoto Destination Japan Flights • Arrival: Day01 before 4 pm (flexible) Airport: Narita International Airport (NRT) Or Haneda Airport • Return: Day07 anytime after breakfast (flexible) Airport: Osaka Kansai International Airport (KIX) Meeting Point * The group meets at the arrival airport or at the hotel on Day01. * More details will be provided via group chat on WhatsApp *** Day01 Tokyo Arrival Day02 Tokyo Highlights Day03 Mt Fuji, Hakone - Shinkansen Bullet Train Ride Day04 Hikone - Koka Day05 Kyoto Highlights Day06 Kyoto - Nara - Osaka Day07 Osaka Departure Cost: $3590 (Room shared with another solo traveler - same gender) $4290 (Private room) Inclusions Price Includes * • 5 nights Western style and 1 night Japanese style accommodation * • Meet and greet upon arrival at Tokyo Narita Airport * • Airport transfers on arrival and departure * • Private coach transfers between destinations in Japan * • Comprehensive escorted with AJT professional English speaking tour guide * Meals * • Breakfast everyday * • 3 lunches and 2 dinners * Admission fees and activities All entry fees to sites, activities listed in the itinerary.  Transport Travel by private coach between destinations, hassle free baggage handling. Price Excludes * International airfares * Meals that are not included in the itinerary * Travel Insurance * Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks * Personal expenses such as telephone and laundry bills * Gratuities Follow the link for complete details and to reserve your spot. [https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/japan-highlights-cherry-blossom-or-spring-season/](https://www.bucketlistgrouptravel.com/tour/japan-highlights-cherry-blossom-or-spring-season/) Questions? Text or call 202-378-7696 Himanshu - Organizer

**NEW UPDATE:** Additional members of the cubing community have reached out to me and we all agree, the more cubing the better! I have removed the 12 person limit and we are adding an overflow cube for those also interested in non vintage type cubes! These guest cubes may consist of the following: \- Alex's Enchantment Cube: [Enchanted to Meet You](https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/enchantedCube)! \- Matthew's Avatar cube: [Avatar: The Last Airbender Power(ful) Cube](https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/avatarTLA) Priority will still fall to firing the vintage cube but what this means is if we reach 12 members we can offer the option to fire both cubes at 6 and 6 or just the vintage cube at 2 pods each. If we reach over 12 we will divide up the players between the two cubes with earlier RSVPs getting priority on their choice. If you have a cube that you are interested in having as a spill over cube please reach out to me and we can coordinate. Thank you! Come join and casually draft a vintage cube that is open to everyone. No cost to enter! The store provides promo booster packs and I usually throw in a pack of the most recent standard set to award to the people with the best records at the end of the night. [What is Cube?](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNDBTRG6keM) What: Vintage Cube Draft When: 6:00pm Where: Your Hobby Place in Old Town Alexandria (Your Hobby Place, 700 N Washington St, Alexandria, VA 22314) We aim to start drafting shortly after 6:00pm as the store's register closes at 9:00pm. The store owner is kind enough to keep the space open for us to finish rounds. In previous events we've usually wrapped up around 9:45. All skill levels are welcome and all cards, lands, tokens needed are provided so you only need to bring yourself and potentially some dice and playmat if you prefer. The list can be seen here: [https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/proxybacon](https://cubecobra.com/cube/list/proxybacon) Join Your Hobby Place's Discord and grab the Cube Role in the mtg-chat channel for the most up to date information on cube at their location: [https://discord.gg/9je3G8vzXh](https://discord.gg/9je3G8vzXh) **Important Notice:** I have seen an increased number of signups and no shows amongst brand new accounts. In an effort to make sure we have room for everyone if this is your first time joining and you have just created a meetup account please reach out to me via Meetup or discord. **Late Policy:** RSVPing will hold your spot for up to 10 minutes after 6. If you expect you may be running late please reach out to me via the store's discord. My username is iluvbacon610.

This is not your ordinary hip-hop dance class. Get moving and grooving to upbeat music while your fitness level improves. It's all fun and all good in this energetic workout. Level: All. Ages 13 & up Fitness in the Parks is a FREE program that brings a variety of fitness opportunities to parks and natural areas across Prince George’s County, MD! We invite you to find the class that best suits your fitness goals and to come discover the benefits of exercising in nature. Ages 13 & up. Register at pgparksdirect.com. No classes on federal holidays (Memorial Day 5/25). Classes may be canceled due to inclement weather or wet grounds. Call 301-927-0822 for weather-related cancellations. **Register Here:** [pgparksdirect.com](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&FMID=532319886) Activity Code: 17681-279B For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly via email wellness@pgparks.com **Westphalia Community Center (located on tennis courts)** **8900 Westphalia Road** **Upper Marlboro 20774**

Volunteer with us refurbishing donated bicycles to help us get them back out in the community! This event is open to both new and existing volunteers. No mechanical experience is necessary. Note: The warehouse location is in the alley behind 1502 Mt Vernon Ave. Enter through the gray door next to a roll-down garage door. If you drive to the location, be sure to park in the street, not in the alleys or parking lots surrounding the warehouse. And wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty with bicycle grease! Please be aware that volunteers under 18 need a parent or guardian to accompany them to their first volunteer experience and sign a liability waiver, while volunteers under 16 need a parent or guardian to accompany them at all times while volunteering with Vélocity.

Are you looking to make new friends in the DC area? This is it! Reserve your spot for free on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1987803322247?aff=oddtdtcreator)**. Make new friends and meaningful new connections and do community building. Or just to unwind and enjoy extended happy hour. We are absolutely thrilled to announce that **[Hotel Zena](https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/zena?gclid=CjwKCAjw9NeXBhAMEiwAbaY4lmNIGNhZ43UtLelRqLdCZsZ_eXi5gUulOWkczZ9-jBZcrF_XJTC2lxoC4rgQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds)**, an art-filled boutique hotel, is hosting Go Gay DC! Get ready for another gathering of members of the LGBTQ+ Community! About 20 LGBTQ+ folk are expected. We are gathering in Figleaf lounge located to the left of the main entrance. We will be in the back by the pool table. Arrive when it is convenient for you! Most attendees will likely arrive by 7:00 p.m. **Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. The hotel is located at 1155 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20005. The closest Metro station is McPherson Square. **[See a map](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hotel+Zena,+a+Viceroy+Urban+Retreat/@38.9050701,-77.0315871,15z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0x734a7f7109afbeb2?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwio7Yrx1dSBAxVolWoFHQUPA14Q_BJ6BAhnEAA&ved=2ahUKEwio7Yrx1dSBAxVolWoFHQUPA14Q_BJ6BAhxEAc)**. Use Metro Trip Planner: [https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/](https://www.wmata.com/schedules/trip-planner/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExdGpIZGhiNnVBbDE5M3JvbAEeuhWmqw_N3p_FOJ2_Yq-5SF6I0pWlao_wznf3lEZ2-ILBc9NuFZDB-mg7Zp0_aem_KDRJar8HqyuVZ-9Q8EUtfQ) You're welcome regardless of where you live. This LGBTQ and Allies community-wide social provides everyone a chance to socialize, network, and share community spirit in a splendid setting. This event is being boosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com/)**[,](https://www.gogaydc.com/) Metro Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service. It reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com/) At this exciting event, you'll even get to meet Go Gay DC's Founder, **[TJ Flavell](http://www.tjflavell.com)!** Fabulous people from all over the world are expected. Name tags will be provided. It's FREE to attend; cash bar. There will be a bartender on duty; cash or credit card is fine. Casual attire is fine; this will be a relaxing and fun time. The event is free to attend but registration is highly recommended to get in. Hotel Zena, an Urban Retreat By Viceroy, is where art, music, and design thrive. Part hotel and part art gallery that features work that celebrates the contributions and courage of women. Find us at the nexus of downtown DC and the 14th Street Corridor, close to DC’s most notable landmarks and museums. The 191 guest rooms and suites are soothing spaces with artful touches. The hotel is even offering a [Go Gay DC discount on a hotel stay](https://be.synxis.com/?Hotel=9029&Chain=1003&arrive=2022-09-23&depart=2022-09-24&adult=1&child=0&promo=GOGAYDC)! Invite all your friends. This event is a safe, inclusive space for everyone under the rainbow. Go Gay DC is on social media: Join the Facebook Group [https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC) Like the Facebook Page [https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC) Follow on Threads [https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc) Follow on Bluesky [https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/) Follow on X [https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC) Watch on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC) LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExN2tRNWxxbmJINDBLRjgyeHNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR6w6hV7nnd4_ib7hO4sGpsSn_cdXfPd75Bu3M7zmEi9Dl9TPCaWhdsOiMuyEg_aem_2P-pfs9FaQjn7QAvmFHriw) Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Straight Allies Non-binary

In the first 30 minutes of class, Qi Gong(5 organ and spirit enlivening)exercises are taught. In the last hour, the class is divided into beginner, intermediate and advanced groups and are taught Lao (old) Yang Tai Chi Chuan.

**\*TO ATTEND REGISTER AT [-** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13388#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13388#tix) (\*Multiple Meetup groups are co-organizing so RSVP's shown are just a small % attending. ABOUT: **Let's take it back to a simpler (and a lot more fun) time! Our 80s & 90s Trivia Night is of our most popular and well attended online meetups. Categories will be 80s & 90s Movies, Music, Sports, Pop Culture, Television). Prizes include Amazon Gift Cards and more!!** HOW IT WORKS: You can attend via a computer & Webcam or Smartphone/Ipad/Tablet. This completely online event will be LIVE and you will be able to see and hear the other participants while playing. In addition you get to meet and interact with other participants. At game time, your host will read off 80s & 90s Trivia questions. Your goal is to come up with the right answer to each question and write it down on your paper. Once the round is over (about 6 questions), we will go through the answers and determine who had the highest score for the round. They will get a raffle ticket for a chance to win a prize at the end of the event. We will have multiple rounds of play and have a system to also virtually introduce you to other participants. HOW DO YOU FIND THE VIRTUAL ROOM: After you purchase your ticket, you will get a confirmation with the zoom link ON DAY OF THE EVENT. RSVPS ON HERE ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF ACTUAL ATTENDANCE as this is a multi group event. **\*TO ATTEND REGISTER AT -** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13388#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13388#tix) Cost: $15- $20 depending on how early you register. **For more fun events:** **Follow: [https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283](https://www.eventbrite.com/o/new-york-city-social-events-10797526283)** **Click: [https://dljparty.ticketleap.com/](https://dljparty.ticketleap.com/)**

Join us for this fun, effective cardio workout that combines several different workout methods including aerobics, bodyweight strength training, and plyometrics! Enjoy a high-energy group environment as you improve your strength and cardiovascular endurance. Level: All. Ages 13 & up Fitness in the Parks is a FREE program that brings a variety of fitness opportunities to parks and natural areas across Prince George’s County, MD! We invite you to find the class that best suits your fitness goals and to come discover the benefits of exercising in nature. Register at *pgparksdirect.com*. No classes on federal holidays (Memorial Day 5/25). Classes may be canceled due to inclement weather or wet grounds. Call 301-927-0822 for weather-related cancellations. **Register Here:**[ pgparksdirect.com](https://mdpgparksweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/iteminfo.html?Module=AR&FMID=532319968) Activity Code: 17681-279C For fastest response to any questions, or for more information, please contact Health and Wellness directly at (301) 446-6800; TTY (301) 699-2544 or email [wellness@pgparks.com](wellness@pgparks.com)

Join us for an hour of writing! We’ve discovered that it’s strikingly helpful to write with other writers. See if it’s true for you at **7:00 PM on Wednesday evenings.** Edit: As of January 7, 2026, we will be back at Starbucks! Be it a book, blog, script, essay, dissertation, resume, melody, poem or just plain work stuff, you are invited to write it with us. No one will see what you've written or give you unsolicited advice. Instead of just thinking about writing, come and get some real writing done. **We'll meet inside the coffee shop**. Please buy something to ensure we're welcome back. Sit down anywhere, but let me know you're here so we can introduce ourselves and check in before and after writing! (I'll be the one with the sign.) **SCHEDULE:** 7:00 - Quick introductions 7:20 - Timer starts: write for 1 hour 8:20 - The End: chat, take off, or keep writing Writing is very solitary. Connecting (and sometimes even commiserating) with other writers is a cool thing. BEING LATE IS OKAY: just show up and get settled, then check-in with me after the session. If you were on time, please be willing to make room for the friendly latecomer. Happy writing and I look forward to seeing you! **What Should I Bring?** Whatever you need to be able to write! Note that outlets are limited, so please make sure your devices are charged. Bring earbuds/earplugs if you want to block the overhead music or the conversation by other patrons. **Other Important Details:** Starbucks has WiFi. TRAVEL / PARKING: The shopping area is about a twenty minute walk from the College Park or P. G. Plaza/Hyattsville Crossing Metro Stations. There's also a bus stop right outside the shopping center on Baltimore Ave. Parking is free. SEATING INFORMATION: Seating is first come first serve. I'll try to grab a table, but be prepared to sit down anywhere. FOOD GUIDELINES: Tea, coffee, and light food are available at the coffee shop. Please thank our hosts by purchasing something to drink.

**\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET At** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix) (Multiple Meetup groups are co-organizing so the RSVP's shown are just a very small portion attending. We'll have at least 20 registered.) Our last online Bingo Night Party was such a BIG hit, we're doing it again! Do you like to play BINGO or want to just do something different?! Then you will LOVE this event! Here is your opportunity to have some fun playing our Live "Bingo" game. You will also get to socialize and make other friends from the comfort of your home. Prizes included Amazon gift cards, free future events and more! This completely online event will be LIVE and you will be able to see and hear the other participants while playing. You will either need to print or draw out your bingo cards. We will email you with how to get it after registering. You can have more than 1 person on your team as long as they're from your house and use same device. Friends/family around the country can also play. They would just need to also register for a ticket. This event will be held on Zoom which you would access through your computer/webcam, or via your phone/tablet. On day of the event, you will get a secured Zoom link and link to print out Bingo cards. \*RSVPS ON HERE ARE NOT REFLECTIVE OF ACTUAL ATTENDANCE as this is a multi group event. Cost: $15-$20 depending on how early you register. **\*TO ATTEND GET TICKET AT -** [https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix](https://www.socialevents123.com/event-details.aspx?id=13397#tix)

♠️ Spades in Virginia! ♠️ Nando's Peri Peri, Mosaic District 2987 District Ave Ste 100, Fairfax, VA 22031 🌟 3rd Friday Spades in Virginia! 🕕 6:30pm to 10:30pm 😀 **Posted in multiple groups. So, expect a nice crowd.** 🚗 Parking is FREE!!! 🍷 Alcoholic beverages are available! Please support the business by purchasing food/drinks. ✅️ No partner needed! Get matched with a partner onsite. All skill levels are welcome. ❤️ Come hang out with a friendly and welcoming group. Meet new people and have a great time! 🌟 The fun starts at 7pm! RSVP today.

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."