New York

**Village Heart Circle** hosted by **Marco Astolfi** & **Torsten Bless** for **GBTQ men\*** **[free event with registration](https://wearevillage.org/shop/heart-circle/w20-2026)** Are you looking for a space where you can express your feelings and share your experiences in a loving and supportive community of GBTQ men\*? In this circle we can sit together peacefully to speak from the heart and listen with our hearts, honouring the different ways from which we come in a safe and non-judgemental space, honouring the different ways from which we come in a safe and non-judgemental space. The Heart Circle is a practice originated by Native Americans and adopted by the Radical Faeries to build community. **General Information** We open the doors at 7:30 p.m. To protect the integrity of the Heart Circle, we ask that you arrive before 8:00 p.m. **Language**: This event will be in German and/or English depending on participant needs. 🔵 Suchst du nach einem Ort, an dem du deine Gefühle und Erfahrungen teilen kannst, in einer unterstützenden Gemeinschaft von schwulen, bisexuellen, trans und queeren Männern\*? Der Kreis ist ein Ort, an dem wir friedlich zusammensitzen, aus dem Herzen sprechen und mit dem Herzen zuhören können. Ein Ort, an dem wir die unterschiedlichen Lebensumstände, aus denen wir kommen, respektieren, ohne zu urteilen. Der Heart Circle ist eine Praxis, die von den Ureinwohnern Nordamerikas stammt und von den Radical Faeries übernommen wurde, um Gemeinschaft zu bilden. **Hinweise** Wir öffnen die Türen um 19.30 Uhr. Um die Unversehrtheit des Heart Circles zu bewahren, bitten wir dich, vor 20:00 Uhr zu erscheinen. **Sprache**: Je nach Bedürfnissen der Gruppe werden wir Deutsch und/oder Englisch sprechen.

**GUARDIANS Masks Workshop** UPDATE: This workshop date is already full booked! but you can reserve on the next dates (May & June) [here](https://www.meetup.com/creative-art-workshops-berlin/events/314890798/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=share-btn_savedevents_share_modal&utm_source=link&utm_version=v2&member_id=298628301): **See a video of [previous sessions](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXrmpYbjBvc/).** 📍 Berlin (Kreuzberg) 🗓 2 sessions (3.5h each with a pause for snacks) 🗓 Next Dates> **May 29 & June 5** (Fridays) 6:00–9:30 PM (*Only few spots available)* **July 3 & 10** (Fridays) 6:00–9:30 PM €115 (all materials included) 👫 *Bring your friend, and both receive 10€ off.* ***Small Group only!*** *After reserve, I will send you an email to confirm your place.* **A two-session sustainable experience inspired by folk characters and traditional mask-making. You will design and create your own character mask in a hands-on and creative way.** **Guardians are masks with presence—imagined characters that accompany and bring personality to a space**. You can create a small or large mask, designed either to wear or to hang. **Day 1:** Inspiration & Mask Building *"In Japan, masks often embody transformation, character, and symbolic presence.* *In the Andes, masks connect animals, imagination, and collective storytelling (...)"* We begin with a visual introduction to mask-making across cultures, exploring how artists draw inspiration from celebrations, nature, animals, and imaginary characters to create expressive forms. You’ll bring your own idea (or choose from a selection of references) to design your Guardian character. You can choose between different formats — wearable masks or small sculptural faces for the wall — working with accessible materials such as recycled cardboard, papier-mâché, fabric, and mixed textures. **Day 2:** Painting & Finishing In the second session, we bring the characters to life through colour, texture, materials and detail. You will choose a colour palette and combine acrylic paints with acrylic markers to create different finishing effects. The workshop closes with a relaxed sharing moment, where participants can present their character and creative process. **All materials are included:** *cardboard, paper, paste, papier-mâché, acrylic paints, fabrics, threads, and decorative textures.* You are welcome to bring \*personal materials \* if you wish — colours, fabrics, small objects, or symbolic elements you would like to incorporate into your piece. * Where: At my studio in **10963 Kreuzberg, Berlin**. It’s a bright, sunny space ☀️ I’ll send you the exact address by email after you fill out the form. It will be fun! **A bit about me** Hi! I’m Rosi Diaz Roigt a Berlin-based mask artist and graphic designer for films. My work explores nature, imagination, and sustainable materials through illustration, sculpture, and mixed media. I guide participants and motivate them to develop their own personal forms of expression! **To save your spot:** Please RSVP here and also complete the **registration [form](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdjU-H1YSLnua4JDuvfKaaoGFqTV7yNNZpjc3iyFKj1SF7JyQ/viewform)**, so I can confirm your spot. (Meetup RSVP alone may not guarantee your place.) **Previous workshops;** [www.instagram.com/p/DXrmpYbjBvc/](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXrmpYbjBvc/) [www.rosidiazroigt.myportfolio.com/](https://rosidiazroigt.myportfolio.com/)

Welcome to "Challenge Accepted," the monthly head-to-head-to-head battle of some of the best improvisers in Berlin! This time, the points are *serious*, with the winner being awarded the coveted the Improv Challenge Cup. Our next show features: Diana Hartstock (The Buckingham, ComedyShorts) Yael Rozanes (ComedyShorts, Naked Flamingos) Ben Southam (GLB, Some Nerve) Expect ridiculous characters, hilarious scenes and funny songs, all made up on the spot! Doors: 19:30, Show: 20:00 Advance tickets: https://www.improvworksberlin.com/shows "A shameless ripoff of Make Some Noise on [Dropout.tv](http://Dropout.tv)" - Sam Reich\* "You should definitely subscribe to [Dropout.tv](http://Dropout.tv)" - Andrew Rae, hoping not to get sued \* not Sam Reich

\#\#\# Was ist Breathwork? Conscious Breathwork bedeutet bewusstes atmen. Und das ist es letztendlich auch, was wir etwa 70 Minuten lang machen werden. In einer Breathwork Session geht es vor allem darum, dass Du loslassen, Dich entspannen und mit Dir selbst und Deinem Unterbewusstsein verbinden kannst. Das geht am besten, in dem Du gar nichts erwartest und nicht so viel dadrüber nachdenkst. ✨ \#\#\# Das erwartet Dich Nach einem kurzen Check-In beginnen wir mit der Session. Die Atmung kann im Liegen oder Sitzen statt finden, ganz nach Deiner Wahl. Du wirst durch ein bewegendes Musikset geführt, wodurch Du in eine Trance-Atemmeditation gelangst. Hier kannst Du unter anderem diese Erfahrungen machen: Stress abbauen, herausfinden, was da noch in Dir steckt, Dein Potential entfalten, innere Anspannungen lösen oder unterdrückte Emotionen freilassen, in Dich hinein horchen und Lösungen finden, Kreative Ideen und Visionen erhalten oder einfach eine berührende Zeit haben. \#\#\# Über Nina Seit 2015 bin ich [Anusara® Elements™](https://www.anusarayoga.com/) Yogalehrerin. Es folgten viele Weiterbildungen in den Bereichen Chakren, Meditation, Yoga und Trauma. 2018 habe ich mich zudem auf die Heldenreise begeben. Seit 2023 bin ich Atemtherapeutin Conscious Breathwork nach der [Lichtatmung®](https://naou.de/lichtatmung/) und freue mich sehr, Dich bei Deiner Reise begleiten zu dürfen. In meine Sessions fließen meine unterschiedlichen Erfahrungen ein. Was mich jedoch am meisten bewegt: Mich begeistert alles, was Dich mehr bei Dir selbst ankommen lässt, Dich mit Deiner Lebendigkeit und vor allem Deinem Herzen verbindet! \#\#\# Bitte mitbringen: – Yogamatte oder andere Unterlage (z.B Isomatte), damit Du es schön gemütlich hast – Lockere, angenehme Kleidung – Alles andere, was Dich noch wohlfühlen lässt. Decken, Wasser und Snacks gibt es vor Ort! \#\#\# Deine Investition & Buchung Der Standard Preis beträgt 25 €. Das Ticket 1+1 Bring a Friend kostet 45€ und ist gültig für zwei. Du kannst die Tickets hier kaufen und mit mit allen gängigen Zahlungsmethoden schnell & einfach bezahlen. Tickets: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breathe-free-conscious-breathwork-session-tickets-1980182922426](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breathe-free-conscious-breathwork-session-tickets-1980182922426) \#\#\# Bitte beachte\, dass der Platz auf 5 Teilnehmer:innen begrenzt ist\, sichere Dir rechtzeitig Deinen Platz\. \#\#\# Die Veranstaltung findet in Berlin\-Prenzlauer Berg statt\. Wenn Du Fragen hast oder weitere Informationen benötigst, melde Dich gerne bei mir: info@ninahrkalovic.com Weitere Infos zu mir und meinen Events: [www.ninahrkalovic.com](www.ninahrkalovic.com) ###Kanäle für Tickets, Aktuelles und nächste Events: Instagram: [www.instagram.com/conscious_breathwork_berlin](www.instagram.com/conscious_breathwork_berlin) Telegram: [t.me/consciousbreathwork](t.me/consciousbreathwork)

Connect with other FLINTA (women, lesbian, non-binary, trans, agender) music producers in Berlin in a supportive and welcoming space. This event is **exclusively for FLINTA** people. Join us: **Friday, May 22** **17–19:00** **House of Music (343 Labs, 2nd floor)** This event is open to anyone who identifies as a **Woman, Lesbian, Inter, Non-binary, Trans, or Agender person** and is looking for a creative space to exchange ideas, receive feedback, or simply listen and feel inspired. **What to expect:** ▸ Share your song ▸ Give constructive feedback ▸ Connect with other music producers ▸ A gentle and supportive space open to every skill level **Keep in mind:** ‣ We kindly ask everyone to **arrive on time** so we can create and maintain a comfortable space for the group ‣ Please bring your song as a link that does not require downloads

Join us for a fun **Speed Friendship & Social Meetup** at **Pizza Max Schöneberg**. This is a great chance to meet new people, have good conversations, and make new friends in a relaxed and informal environment. **What to expect** * Short conversations with different people * Friendly and social atmosphere * Meet new friends in Berlin **Special offer** Participants get **10% off on dine-in orders**, so enjoy delicious pizza while meeting new people. 🍕 **What to bring** Just bring yourself and a positive attitude. **How to find the group** Look for the **Meetup table inside the restaurant** when you arrive. Come together, enjoy pizza, and make new friends! 🤝🍕

**English Comedy Special that will finally make you delete the dating apps - because there's no hope! Featuring 4 headliner level comedians!** Please sign up at [eastwestcomedy.com](eastwestcomedy.com) in addition to RSVP here to guarantee seating **Line-up: see website** !! Our weekend shows have been SOLD OUT almost every time, so PLEASE book online and don't take chances ;) !! **Neukolln's favorite (by popular vote) comedy club East-West Comedy presents the new, topical show all about love & dating f\*ckups! In Berlin, you don't know who to hate the most: emotionally dead weirdos you meet online, people who refuse to pay the asking price for your feet pictures on OnlyFans, or the smug, preachy couples they form when they find each other. Is there any actual hope? Nah. But there are funny stories to tell to your closest friends (or to a room full of drunk strangers for money). 4 experienced comedians from USA, UK, Europe, Asia and more, will possibly kill your last remnants of hope - but promise you'll have helluva fun in the process.** Google rating: 5.0 / 5.0 ★★★★★ “Laughed a lot, will come again for sure” Oliver, UK ★★★★★ “A cozy place with high quality live comedy!” Joanna, Hong Kong ★★★★★ “Great comedy show, talented comics and very nice atmosphere” Mariia, Ukraine ★★★★★ “Comedians were good, beer was good, ambiance was super nice!” Gaelle, Lebanon ★★★★★ “The humour hit us right on the spot!” Eve, China ★★★★★ “Perfect evening of laughter” Igor, Croatia ★★★★★ “Cozy stand-up venue with hilarious international artists and audience!” Elvira, Russia ★★★★★ “Great new shows at one of Berlin’s coolest venues!” James, USA Doors: 7:30 PM Show:8:00 PM Entry: Pay What You Want\* (seat reservation required): you reserve your seat for free, and Pay What You Want at the end of the show, depending on how much you think the show is worth (recommended fee: €10-15). Reservations expire 10 minutes before the start of the show. \*It is not within our principles to promote a show as "Free Entry" and ask for a "not-so-voluntary" donation at the end. This show is paid - we just let you decide the price ;)

**Meditate with Mandalas:** This workshop invites you to step away from everyday life for a while and immerse yourself in the tranquil world of mandalas. Mandala Artist Katja Bode introduces you to the meditative art of mandala drawing. Lines, shapes, and colors emerge step by step, naturally leading you into a meditative, relaxing flow. It's not about perfection, but about experiencing creativity, peace, and the joy of creating. That way, you'll create a personal mandala—an expression of your inner peace and a little respite for body and soul. Part 1: 23. May 2026 from 10.30 to 12.30 Part 2: 06. June 2026 from 11.00 to 13.00 Part 3: 13. June 2026 from 11.00 to 13.00 Part 4: 20. June 2026 from 11.00 to 13.00 **[Tickets via Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.de/e/medatative-mandalas-workshop-teil-1-4-tickets-1988266559803?aff=oddtdtcreator)**

Meet up and join other people in Berlin this Saturday! Whether you're a long-time resident or just travelling through, come and meet new people to have fun, make new friends and enjoy your Saturday evening in a safe and welcoming environment at one of Berlins fantastic bars. This week we're heading to Cassiopeia Sommergarten (link to location below). Looking forward to seeing you there! Look out for the signs on tables with our logo on. We always have several organisers there (male and female), so come say hello to us! We care to make sure that everyones enjoys themselves and we have no tolerance for bad behaviour or creepiness. Follow us on Insta: @siphappens.berlin Join us on Telegram: t.me/siphappens_berlin 👉 Other important notes: * 🍸 The locations we visit are bars and clubs, they are businesses and we are able to keep these events free ONLY if people buy drinks. Please respect the locations and the event by making purchases. * 🦹‍♂️ Remember to keep an eye on your belongings and prioritize your own well-being. We are not responsible for any lost items or personal issues. * 📷 By attending our events, you consent to being photographed or filmed. Photos and videos taken during the events may be shared on our social media. If you do not wish to appear in the photos or if you appear in a photo that we post that you would like removed, please send us a private message as soon as possible on Instagram (@siphappens.berlin).

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Berlin Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated brunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

**Village Potluck** organized by the **[we are village](https://wearevillage.org/) volunteers team** for **LGBTQAI+ Friends** **Free event with [registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/potluck/w20-2026)** 🔵 Spending time together! With this in mind, the Village invites you to take part in this free event, have a laugh and make new friends. Just bring a dish of your choice (if possible) and we’ll eat & drink together in a relaxed atmosphere. You are also welcome to invite your friends. A casual opportunity to spend a great time together at the Village – indoors and in the garden. This event will be in German and/or English depending on participant needs. 🔵 Gemeinsam Zeit verbringen! In diesem Sinne lädt dich das Village dazu ein, an diesem kostenlosen Event teilzunehmen, zu genießen, zu lachen und neue Freundschaften zu schließen. Bring einfach etwas zu Essen deiner Wahl mit (wenn möglich) und wir essen & trinken zusammen in gemütlicher, lockerer Runde. Gerne kannst du auch deine Freunde dazu einladen – eine gute Gelegenheit zusammen eine tolle Zeit im Village zu verbringen – drinnen und im Garten. Dieses Event wird je nach Teilnehmerbedürfnissen auf Deutsch und/oder Englisch sein.

**Combining a variety of TopRock break dance moves in the format of HIIT training, this class will be like no other you have taken! Specifically created with non-break dancers in mind, this class is fun, engaging and totally beginner friendly!** 🤸‍♀️ *What exactly is TopRock you might be asking?* Toprock is the **standup part of breakdance**. When break-dancers are showing their skills, they will often start with toprock. Beginners often find toprock to be easier than other elements of [breaking](http://%5Bhttps//www.mygrooveguide.com/dance-info/breaking/what-is-breaking%5D(https://www.mygrooveguide.com/dance-info/breaking/what-is-breaking) "breaking"), because it is done standing up. So this will be a great introduction to breaking for beginners or those wishing to expand their breakdance skills. **Taught by 3x Breakdance World Champion and Choreographer of Flying Dreams show at Wintergarten, Bboy Lou.Ease of the Flying Steps! He has also worked with contemporary dance companies such as Akram Khan Company, Wang Ramirez and Constanza Marcras / Dorkypark.** **📋 Agenda:** * *Check in will begin 15 minutes prior to class*. Please arrive on time to ensure class starts at the designated time. **💸 Cost**: *Donation based* **to help with maintaining the venue and group maintenance costs.** **👉 Other Things to Note:** * *Class will be in English/German* * *Please make sure to wear comfortable clothes you can move and sweat in. Shoes should also be comfortable, although they are not mandatory. Feel free to dance barefoot or in socks if you like.* * *Bring a water bottle to refresh between sequence breaks.* * *Changing room/clothes storage and toilets provided on site free of charge.* * ***If you RSVP and are unable to make it, please be considerate and cancel 24 hours in advance to make space for someone else.***

***Hike along UNESCO heritage forests & Chalky white cliffs that plunge into the emerald waters of the Baltic Sea.*** **HOW DO I JOIN THIS TRIP?** Click on link below to get complete info and to sign up for this event by getting your ticket. [https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/jasmund-island-23may2026](https://urbanaturetravel.com/event/jasmund-island-23may2026) **SPECIAL OFFER FOR NEW USERS** * 10% New User Discount using promo code: **MEETUP10** * Valid for this trip or any other trips available on our website. **WHY GO?** Let’s discover Germany’s wild north! We hike along endless stretches of unspoilt beaches framed by the baltic sea and ghostly forests. Together we wander through a UNESCO heritage forest sitting on top of dramatic chalk cliffs that plunge into the emerald waters of the Baltic Sea. **WHAT ARE SOME OF THE HIGHLIGHTS?** * **Jasmund National Park:** Famous for containing Germany’s largest chalk cliffs & UNESCO heritage beech forest. Germany's smallest national park has formed an image of unspoilt wilderness. Here the largest contiguous beech forest in the Baltic Sea region is protected and in it an amazing variety of different habitats in a small space. More than 100 moors, lakes, springs and streams are framed by venerable beech forests. * **White Chalf Cliffs:** The glowing white rocks consist of 70 million year old chalk. Nature has piled them up from the skeletons of countless single-celled creatures that the Cretaceous sea once left there. The highest point of the chalk coast is the Königsstuhl, which towers 118 meters above the beach. * **Sassnitz:** Sassnitz is a resort town on the German island of Rügen. It’s home to the submarine HMS Otus, now a naval museum. **TRIP DETAILS** **Start & End Date:** Saturday, 23 May. **Meeting Time & Location:** * **Option A:** Meet in Berlin Central Station at 7:00 am. * **Option B:** Meet outside Sassnitz Train Station at 11:45 am. **Note:** Exact platform to be advised one day before trip date in WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants. **Finishing Time & Location:** * **Option A:** Berlin Central Station at 10:30 pm. * **Option B:** Sassnitz Train Station at 5:45 pm. **Hiking Distance:** 14 km forest trek. **Hiking Difficulty:** Easy / Intermediate – Hiking at relaxed pace with multiple break times on well-marked paths, minimal elevation, sure-footedness & good fitness required. **Kid Friendly:** Yes. **What is Included?** * Community Guide for the entire trip (Guide speaks English). * Guided hike of Jasmund National park. * All public transportation for this trip from the meeting point to the finishing point (Based on your ticket option). * Access to a dedicated WhatsApp group for this event to connect with other trip mates, coordinate arrival options & stay in touch (link to WhatsApp group in the ticket). * Access to a shared Google photo album where you can share & view all amazing pictures & videos from the trip (link to Google photos album in the WhatsApp group description). **Other Things of Note & Items to Pack:** Weather is temperament and can vary between raining & sunny weather. Would recommend the following at a minimum (can further advise on this in the WhatsApp group for the confirmed participants): * Packed lunch for break during hike. * Good shoes for forest hike (no need of hiking shoes). * Rain jackets (based on weather conditions). * Rain trousers. * Suitable day pack. * Sun protection. * Sunglasses & Hat. **WHAT IS THE PLAN?** **7:00 am -** Meet in Berlin Central Train Station. **7:30 am -** Catch train for Sassnitz starting with RE 3 to Stralsund. **12:00 pm -** Arrive in Sassnitz and head to Sassnitz bus station to catch bus (Bus 23) to Königsstuhl. **12:10 pm -** Arrive in Königsstuhl and start hiking. **2:00 pm** \- Take a break for lunch in a beach location\. **2:30 pm -** Continue hiking. **4:30 pm** \- Arrive in Sassnitz strand area and get something to eat\. **5:30 pm** \- Head back to Sassnitz Train Station\. **5:45 pm** \- Arrive in Sassnitz Train Station\. **5:54 pm -** Catch train for Berlin starting with RE9 to Stralsund. **10:30 pm** \- Arrive back in Berlin Central Station\. **FOR FUTURE TRIP UPDATES:** Please do join our WhatsApp/Telegram channel for updates about our future trips including possible early bird discounts, contests etc. 1. [WhatsApp Channel](https://go.unt.global/travelgroup) 2. [Telegram Channel](https://t.me/urbanaturetravel)

**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.

⚠️ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4–6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyone’s a good fit. 👉 **To attend, you’ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) We’ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, there’s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup don’t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.

**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.

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."

Free monthly networking for Columbus business owners. Real conversations, real connections, no forced formats. Space is limited. RSVP now. Good marketing starts with good relationships. That is what this event is built around. Networking Night is a free monthly event for local business owners in Columbus who want to build real connections with other serious operators in their market. No structured rotations. No forced elevator pitches. Just a room full of local business owners who are worth knowing, in a space that makes it easy to have an actual conversation. Register here: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/local-marketing-networking-night-tickets-1988510112275)

Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event: DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor. BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus in 2024, this is the perfect place to kick off our Summer of Ice Cream and grab a sweet treat after the show! Their menu features an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, and more! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: We’ll plan for a 7pm-ish showing and will meet in the lobby area about 20 minutes before the show. Once showtime is announced, advance ticket purchase is advised! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show! Should be a fun one, Dan