New In Town

Have you ever wanted to discover a variety of cuisines to choose from where you end up being spoilt for choice? If so, then this is the right place for you. Welcome to the food event where all of this is possible. This is your chance to select any cuisine of choice and converse amongst one another. With this particular event, we’ll be eating at ‘Mercato Metropolitano’. It began in Milan in Italy back in 2015 during the world expo. Since it was a success, they expanded into London by taking over a disused paper factory which is now a Community food market. It offers over 40 different international cuisines which makes ‘Mercato Metropolitano’ what it is today. To discover more, check out their site at https://mercatometropolitano.com/locations/elephant-and-castle/ My fellow explorers, if you enjoyed the event, I’m more than happy to accept any donations which of course are optional but will go a long way to help me unlock and deliver even more exciting and engaging events and resources: https://www.paypal.me/calvinjoy WHAT - Food at ‘Metropolitano Mercato’
WHERE Metropolitano Mercato - https://maps.app.goo.gl/WmLXG6LXUvMLwnSa8?g_st=ic WHEN - 6:30pm - 8:30pm
MEETING POINT - Outside Elephant & castle station
NEAREST STATION - Elephant & Castle Station
REQUIREMENTS - Just your good behaviour Disclaimers: Please be on your best behaviour and respect one another. This group doesn’t tolerate any misbehaviour and misconduct. Should such a thing take place, you will be removed. Whenever an event takes place, I will cut off contact 20 minutes after the event commences. If you message even 1 minute after the cut off time, I won’t be available as I’m conducting the event. There will be photography and videography by myself so if you are photo conscious and/or do not want to be in the video, do kindly inform me and I’ll try my utmost best to not involve you in the picture. Let’s all be responsible but please be aware you come at your own risk. Do be mindful of your possessions, belongings and most importantly, your safety. The ‘London society of explorers’ accept no risk of liability at this event.

BOOK YOUR TICKET 👉🏼 [HERE](https://itsadate.club/event/speed-dating-in-soho-33/). Step into a fun, fast-paced night of introductions with 30+ super-social guests—hosted by London’s #1-rated dating events company! Moments from Tottenham Court Road Station, All Bar One New Oxford St. is a firm favourite with our mid-week speed dating crowd. The spacious open-plan bar is a welcoming setting for this social evening, with a dedicated mezzanine level reserved exclusively for It’s a Date. You will have the chance to select a drink from the extensive bar menu, meet your friendly host, and get comfortable on the mezzanine before we begin. For those continuing into the night, you are in the heart of Soho, so the opportunities are endless! Our host will be at the venue ready to welcome you at 19:30. Please arrive on time for registration, to grab any drinks from the bar, and receive a summary of how things will work. You will be given an optional name sticker, a pen, and a note card to keep track of everyone you’ve met. Ladies will be seated on tables adequately spaced, discreetly numbered, and arranged in a comfortable area of the venue. When speed dating commences, gents will join ladies for 5-minute dates to get to know one another. Your host will notify all guests at the end of each date, signalling for gents to move to the next table in ascending numerical order. During table rotations, you will have a moment to record on note cards your feelings towards the previous date and intention to reconnect, for your reference only. Mid-way through the evening, your host will indicate a 15-minute comfort break to use the rest room, head to the bar, or socialise with new connections. Dating will then resume for the second half of the evening. At the end of the speed dating the bar will remain open for more socialising. You can then access the event listing in your dashboard to enter feedback on dates and await your matches. If you have any questions on the event or how things will work, please get in contact with James on 07517 065 492 or james@itsadate.club.

Our regular table is in the middle of the pub. It will have a reservation notice for Ashley Farnham. Looking forward to seeing you! **PLEASE NOTE: Photographs of the event's attendees will be taken and posted on Meetup. If you do not wish to be photographed, please let the event's organiser know on arrival.** **PLEASE NOTE: For the duration of the quiz, mobile phones are not allowed to be used for any reason.** **FOR NEW ATTENDEES: If you cannot locate either me or the group, please message me through the Meetup app which you can install on your phone.** ‘The greatest quiz ever to take place in Putney’ - The Spotted Horse website. Would you like to join our group at The Spotted Horse’s pub quiz on Wednesday evening? Putney Social Group has reserved seating for 8. This group event has prizes on offer including a £50 bar tab for the winning group and a golden question jackpot! It consists of 50 general knowledge questions with a break halfway. This is a very popular event, and regularly enjoys capacity attendance. The charge is £2 cash or QR code payable to the pub’s quizmaster. Please aim to arrive at 7:30pm as the quiz starts at about 8pm. Please cancel your reservation if you cannot attend. By way of information, wheelchair access is available at the right-hand side of the venue and the venue also has accessible toilets available on the ground floor. Nearest Public Transport: Train: Putney Tube: East Putney (District Line, Wimbledon Branch) Bus: 14, 37, 85, 93, 337, 430, N74. It takes about 5 minutes to walk to the venue from the train station. I look forward to seeing you at the Greatest Pub Quiz in Putney!

**Tired of small talk? Come meet new people meaningfully - the Authentic You Me way!** Are you... ...new to the city, a local, been here for a while or recently returned? ...looking to develop new meaningful friendships? ...tired of repeating yourself on "how long have you been here?" "so...what do you do?" questions at traditional networking events? ...craving for more deep conversations that go beyond the small talk? ...feeling a little lonely or out of place lately? ...on the look out for a new tribe cos your friends have either moved away or are busy with new phases in life? ...simply want to take your social networking skills to the next level? …and on top of that… \*You are 35+ and wondering where people your age hang out? If you have answered yes to two or more of the above, then you have come to the right place. **Welcome to Authentic You Me** We often hear how difficult it can be to make new friends as an adult and particularly when moving abroad; or when rebuilding social circles cos old friends have moved away or onto new life phases. Socialising attempts often mean standing in a crowded room, wearing a polite smile, and answering the same three questions: *"What do you do?" "Where are you from?" "How long have you been here?"* Great for breaking the ice, but rarely leading to something inspiring or meaningful. It’s exhausting. It feels like a performance. While the absence of meaningful connections can sometimes leave us feeling a little lonely or like we don't belong. **Authentic You Me** *was born with a desire to change that.* \-\-\- **Welcome to** **Authentic You Me**, we create intentional socials we coined as **Slow Friending** \- our own thoughtful\, refreshing and carefully crafted way of changing how we meet and connect with others\. **Join me** for a carefully and lovingly curated slow-friending evening that is all about embracing your authentic self, connecting on a deeper level with like-minded people, challenging your perspective and sparking curiosity through stimulating conversations – all in a welcoming, non-intimidating setting. Designed to suit both introverts & extroverts. . **Please note this is a mission-led PAID event** Please book your ticket by clicking [here](https://aymlon040326.eventbrite.co.uk) . . **What to expect** 🟡A welcoming, inclusive & non-intimidating atmosphere, suited to both introverts & extroverts 🟡A carefully curated and expertly facilitated experience that fosters authentic connection and fun interactions 🟡Thoughtful conversation prompts that feel engaging, spark fresh perspectives and are surprisingly easy to step into 🟡Opportunity to meet, mix and engage with various like-minded people throughout the evening 🟡 Walk away with new found friendships and brushing up on interpersonal skills that may help improve your relationships: in friendships, romance, or work . **Agenda** 17:30 Doors open for sign-in and optional pre-social mingling 18:00 Official event kick-off & intro 18:15 Programme Part 1 19:20 Programme Part 2 20:25 Programme wrap-up *Optional after-drinks hangout for those who want to keep the good vibes going. Plus 25% off on selected food & drinks throughout.* **Who you will meet** \*A set of likeminded professionals - internationals, globally-minded locals and repats; typically in their 35s +, and who are seeking authentic connection. . . **No over-crowding. Intentionally limited to a few seats only. Don't delay in confirming your place.** . Come alone, with a partner or a friend. All nationalities and genders are welcome. **Exact address to be shared via email 24-48 hours before the event. Keep in eye on your inboxes incl. spam folders.** See you there! \*Please note that tickets are non-refundable #AuthenticYouMe #AYM #SlowFriending #SlowFriendingbyAYM #MeaningfulConnections #Meaningfulconversations #BelongingAbroad #RealTalkOnly #AYMCommunity #ExpatLife #MeetNewPeople #Authentic #IntentionalConnecting #LifeAbroad #EventsInCopenhagen #CPH #Copenhagen #ThingstodoCPH #Networking #NewinTown

Join us every in Kentish Town for an evening of indoor basketball. Players of all skill levels are welcome to our friendly and competitive weekly match. Couple of points to be aware of: * Wednesdays (7p-8pm) * Kentish Town * 5 v 5 (1 sub per team) * All genders and skill levels welcome * Confirmation of spot and address will be shared via WhatsApp Please whatsapp Alex if you're interested in coming! 07816909832 See you out there!

Unfortunately Vicki has broken her ankle & so we're pushing the launch event back to March. Hopefully this means cocktails on the sunny terrace though!!! New in town? Looking to make new friends? Join us for our March London Meetup Mixer! Private Dining Room @ The Tankard, Wednesday February 4th, 7pm to 10pm Come along to connect with other Londoners! We'll throw in a glass of fizz, some snacks & great tunes. You just need to bring yourself! Let's make the most of being in London by getting out there and having a great time! Whether you're a London native or new to the city, all are welcome!

Address: Caffè Concerto 536-540 Oxford Street, London W1C 1LS (Nearest station is Marble Arch) Join us next Sunday afternoon for relaxed conversation, coffee, and pancakes at Caffè Concerto Oxford Street. Good coffee, good food, and easy chat. This will be a small, relaxed group (around 10 people) so everyone can comfortably talk and connect. Coffee, Chat & Pancakes is about: • Low-pressure conversation • Meeting new people in a relaxed setting • A simple Sunday reset before the week begins Whether you’ve attended before or it’s your first time, you’re welcome. 🕑 2pm–4pm Seating will be booked based on confirmed numbers, so please RSVP only if you’re certain you can attend. If you need to cancel, kindly update your RSVP at least 24 hours in advance where possible. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Welcome! 😊 You can join us for a **unique experience** where you'll be allocated to a gathering/group **based on your interests** (more details on this below!). Come unwind, meet new people, and enjoy some drinks in a relaxed setting. Whether you're looking to make new connections or simply unwind after a long week, this event is perfect for you. **Here's how it works...** ✨ 1. **IMPORTANT:** To attend and be matched with a gathering, answer our quick, personality & interests quiz on [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com) to become a member (*includes gatherings every week - you must be a member to attend*) 💭 🪄 2. We carefully match you with a gathering of amazing people 🫂 📍 3. We book the table for around 10 people in your gathering at a great venue & let you know **your** **venue** **& table details** (venues will be near the station mentioned in location section) 🥂 🎉 4. All you have to do is show up and have a great time! 🥳 If you have any questions, please email info@okgather .com It's the perfect way to meet people with similar interests and expand your network/social circle (while having a lot of fun!). Save your seat now at [OkGather.com](https://OkGather.com)

**🚨**Spoiler alert: We built the space we couldn’t find. A place where you show up alone, say hi first, and meet new people naturally. We celebrate the curious and the hungry—if you’re ready to expand your circle, you’re in the right place. Ps. You can check us out on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/_balancers/) 🚨 Find Your People (Over Uno, Murder… and maybe a Chicken vs Hotdog showdown). This isn’t your average board game night. No sitting in one spot for hours. We’re mixing it up with rotating tables, quick rounds, and games made for laughs, chats, and meeting a whole bunch of new faces. Pick your vibe, or try them all: * 🃏 **The Classics** – Think Uno, Cards Against Humanity, Mario Kart (Wii) and other easy favourites * ⚡ **High Energy** – Quick-fire games like 20 Second Rule and Chicken vs Hotdog * 🕵️‍♀️ **Roleplay & Mystery** – Yep, Spy Game and The Killers are back by popular demand 👋 Host Support – Our hosts are low-key legends. Need a hand, a nudge, or a friendly intro? They’ve got you. **After the Games Social, the night doesn’t stop there.** **Your ticket also gives you access to the main Social. We kick things off with a fresh icebreaker to bring everyone together, then a team game, and after 10 the Musician takes over and the vibe turns up.** ✨ **Pro Tips:** ✅📲 **Download our free [app](https://onelink.to/balancers)** to **track your rewards from the games** throughout the night and stay connected with the people you meet after the event. ### **Important Reminders:** 🔹 **Stay connected:** [Join our ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)**[WhatsApp group \[here\]](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)**[ for last-minute updates.](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O) 🔹**Many attendees join via our app, so the Meetup ‘Going’ list only shows part of the crowd.** 🔹 **Coming alone?** Most people do. You don’t need a plus-one to have a great Saturday. Our hosts are on the floor to get you involved in the games and challenges as soon as you arrive. We make it easy to start those first conversations so you can connect with the room naturally. *Remember, our pillars are Openness, Respect, Kindness and Authenticity.* *Attendance at this event is subject to our [Code of Conduct](https://www.balancers.app/code-of-conduct) and [Terms of Service](https://www.balancers.app/term-of-service). By joining, you may receive emails about Balancers events and community updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.*

☕ **Ealing Social Coffee Meet Up – Our First Ever Coffee Morning!** We’re excited to invite you to our very first Ealing Social Coffee Morning - a relaxed and friendly chance to meet new people, enjoy a great coffee, and spend time chatting in good company. Join us in beautiful Walpole Park at Pitzhanger Pantry for an easy-going meet up where everyone is welcome. Whether you’ve been to our evening events before or this is your first time joining us, it’s a great opportunity to connect in a more laid-back daytime setting. And please don’t worry about coming on your own - most people do! It's always a friendly crowd. We will meet at just outside Pitzhanger Pantry just before 12 noon Come along, grab a coffee, and say hello. We’d love to see you there ☕🌿

🚨 Spoiler alert: We built the space we couldn’t find. A place where you show up alone, say hi first, and meet new people naturally. We celebrate the curious and the hungry—if you’re ready to expand your circle, you’re in the right place. Ps. You can check us out on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/_balancers/)🚨 **To get the full experience, just [download our app 📲](https://onelink.to/balancers)—you’ll be able to connect with others, grab the best ticket deals, track the rewards you win, and relive the night through our photo gallery.** 🎉 Get ready for another Social!! Here\`s the plan: 🔥 **7:30 PM – Spark Conversation Begins** Head to the welcome desk to grab your **Spark Conversation game**—your key to breaking the ice in a fun and effortless way! Play the challenge, connect with new people, and **win golden coins for free drinks!** ✨ **Keep the connections going!** ***[Download our app](https://onelink.to/balancers)*** to track your rewards and stay in touch with the people you meet after the event! 🎲 **9:00 PM – Choose Your Vibe:** * **Games Area:** Jump into **silly, lighthearted games—no skills needed!** just jump in, have a laugh, and win prizes! Every week, we feature a **new game** to keep things fresh and fun. 🎉 * **Mingling Zone:** Prefer a relaxed vibe? Grab a drink, chat, and connect in a more laid-back setting. * **Beer Pong & Jenga:** Feeling playful? Challenge someone to a **fun match** and enjoy some friendly competition. * **Welcome Desk:** Need help? Our friendly hosts are here for you! 🎶 **10:00 PM – The Night Turns Up** The vibe picks up! The DJ sets the mood with timeless tunes and crowd favourites, keeping the energy high. Whether you're singing along, swaying to the rhythm, or just soaking in the atmosphere, let the music bring the night to life! ✨ **Pro Tips:** ✅ Start early with **Spark Conversation** to meet people right away. ✅ Explore different areas and find the vibe that suits you. ✅📲 **Download our free [app](https://onelink.to/balancers)** to **track your rewards from the games** throughout the night and stay connected with the people you meet after the event. ### **Important Reminders:** 🔹 **After-party?** Bring your **ID!** 🔹 **Stay connected:** [Join our ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)**[WhatsApp group \[here\]](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O)**[ for last-minute updates.](https://chat.whatsapp.com/IJKXDkwUTlmDsYTOCIUg7O) 🔹**Many attendees join via our app, so the Meetup ‘Going’ list only shows part of the crowd.** 🔹 **Coming alone?** Most people do. You don’t need a plus-one to have a great Saturday. Our hosts are on the floor to get you involved in the games and challenges as soon as you arrive. We make it easy to start those first conversations so you can connect with the room naturally. *Remember, our pillars are Openness, Respect, Kindness and Authenticity.* *Attendance at this event is subject to our [Code of Conduct](https://www.balancers.app/code-of-conduct) and [Terms of Service](https://www.balancers.app/term-of-service). By joining, you may receive emails about Balancers events and community updates. You can unsubscribe at any time.*

**Whether you’re brand new to board games or just looking for a cosy way to meet people, this night is designed with you in mind.** We run our board game night twice a month, always in the same venue, and with the same familiar hosts. Our aim is simple: create the kind of event you enjoy so much that you want to come back - and maybe make a few new friends along the way. **Please use the link below to purchase tickets for this event.** [https://dplsk.eventcube.io/events/93963/board-games-at-finsbury-park/](https://dplsk.eventcube.io/events/93963/board-games-at-finsbury-park/) **⭐ What Makes This Event Special ⭐** **The Venue:** Blighty is cosy, colourful, and just a little bit quirky — like the living room of your eccentric aunt. It’s worlds away from the noise, crowds, and sticky tables of pubs and bars. **The Games:** We currently own over 50 games, including favourites like Articulate, Codenames, and Secret Hitler. Every game is hand‑picked for maximum fun and easy learning. **The Hosts:** They are some of the loveliest people you will ever meet on Meetup. It doesn’t matter if it is your 1st time or 100th time coming to the board game night, they will always make you feel welcome. **Who This Event Is For** This night is perfect for people who are new to board games or just want something light, social, and easygoing. * You don’t need to know any games beforehand. * You’re welcome to come alone or with a friend - either is completely fine. This is not a hardcore gaming night. You won’t find Dungeons & Dragons or Magic: The Gathering here. **Price — £5 per person** Your contribution helps us keep the event fresh and fun: * We buy new games every month to expand and update our collection. * Any games we no longer need are donated back to the community through regular giveaways. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable. **Where & When** **Address:** Blighty, 35-37 Blackstock Road, Finsbury Park, London, N4 2JF **Google Maps:** [https://maps.app.goo.gl/p7X7u8VLoijfujS6A](https://maps.app.goo.gl/p7X7u8VLoijfujS6A) **Nearest Tube Station:** Finsbury Park Underground Station (approx 5 min walk) **Start Time:** 5:30 PM **End Time:** 9:30 PM If it’s your first time, we strongly recommend arriving before 6 PM so we can help you settle in and match you with a great game.

**Join our TRULY international women's day in Chelsea 🌍 only with the mega-inclusive ❤️ + positive-vibes-only ✨ World Citizens - a hidden oasis for awesome authentic folks from around the world**! Whether you're new to London, traveling here or just have a global mindset, we promise you an epic afternoon to early evening social 🌃 *All women and allies welcome!* **Secure your FREE spot** Here's the deal - we gotta make sure only positive people roll in our scene, so we keep our venue hush-hush to keep out the shady types and party-crashers! Our cool *lottery is the only way to get the full venue details* (but shhhhhhh here's a tip: most people who sign up *correctly* will get in!) So don't wait! Register now to enjoy our legendary **IWD 🙌...** oh, and BTW it's 100% FREE! **Easy-peasy steps** 1\. Enter our ticket lottery at [https://iwdlondon2026.eventbrite.co.uk](https://iwdlondon2026.eventbrite.co.uk)! 2\. When you're picked\, you will receive an invitation email with the secret venue address \- we draw multiple times until the last few hours before the event\, so check your inbox and spambox too\. Do expect *less* attendees than the number of RSVP here, but *more* *quality time* connecting with everyone in a meaningful way! **Event details** -*When?* Sunday 8 March, 4pm until close. Join anytime! -*Where?* The secret location will be revealed via lottery only, but it's an easy walk from Sloane Square or South Kensington stations. -*Cost:* Pay for your own meals or drinks -*Hosts:* We have a rotating team and the host of each event may vary *-Can I bring a friend?* If you receive the invitation email, please follow the process described there to bring a friend. Do not share the secret venue address in any other way. **What we expect from you:** 1. To be respectful and courteous with everyone. 2. To be present so that others feel listened to. 3. To be mindful of people’s personal space. *These events are for everyone to feel safe, welcome and comfortable; where everyone can be heard; where everyone can maintain boundaries with harmony. Thank you for your cooperation!* **What is World Citizens?** London's top community for new-in-town, expats, travellers and third culture kids who want to meet in a safe, culturally enriching and thought-provoking space. **We put women first:** *Over 80% of women in the UK say that nightlife is unsafe ([YouGov Oct 2021 poll](https://www.womensgrid.org.uk/?p=16635)) because of predator men and alcohol/substance abuse. We want to completely change that: World Citizens proactively designs event systems for everyone to enjoy a safe and pleasant evening.* **JOIN OUR TEAM!** We're all volunteers doing this for fun, so if you enjoy organizing activities or events in your spare time, and meeting great people every week, send a message to our team account "TP". **DISCLAIMER:** We are a 100% volunteer-run team. Though we have high standards in planning, this is a private informal activity so we cannot be liable for any damage or inconvenience. However, we put safety and comfort first. We take all complaints seriously, and take severe action against any harassment, verbal or non-verbal, and anti-social behaviour, towards our guests or team members. We collaborate with the police when needed. We take photos and videos which may include you to help promote the community in line with GDPR Data Protection law, as well as stock photos from Pexels or Unsplash. We may restrict or prioritize guests at our own discretion for safety, quality and logistics reasons. While our team's decisions may not be perfect we ask that you follow our decisions first and raise any disputes to discuss with us later and privately. By attending you understand, agree with and respect all terms of this disclaimer.

We’re heading back to Scene75 on Friday, March 27 for a high-energy night of laser tag, mini golf, go-karts, arcade games, and whatever chaos we decide to get into. We’ve done this one before and it was a blast — great turnout, tons of laughs, and just the right mix of competition and hanging out. If you missed it last time, this is your shot. 🎯 What to Expect: Laser tag battles Mini golf challenges Go-karts (for those who need speed) Arcade games & game cards You can load however much you’d like onto a game card. Most people will probably be good with $15–$30, but it’s totally up to you. This is a super casual event — show up, jump into whatever looks fun, rotate groups, and hang out. No pressure, no complicated structure. Just a solid Friday night with good people. Also… I haven’t hosted in a bit and I’m making a push to be more active again. If you’ve got ideas for future events you’d love to do, bring them. I’m all ears. Let’s run it back. 🔥

**Caller: Frank Buschelmann** **Band: The Rosenthorns** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

# **Band and caller TBA** Beginner lesson at 1:30, regular dancing begins at 2:00 pm NOTE THAT WE ARE TEMPORARILY DANCING IN THE AFTERNOON INSTEAD OF EVENING. Dance with us in the afternoon then you can still go out in the evening! **Sponsor: All Soles Contra and Square Dancing, First Unitarian Universalist Church, 93 W. Weisheimer Rd., Columbus OH 43214** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like you’ve seen in period films such as “Pride and Prejudice”, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. That’s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like “swing your partner” and “do-si-do,” like you’ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alá “Riverdance.” Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THAT’s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 1:30 - 2:00, followed by dancing 2:00 - 430. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. Please bring your own refillable water bottle.

**Summary** Celebrate America's 250th year and the [Columbus Clippers'](https://www.milb.com/columbus) 50th season by watching [Franklin County's](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbus_Clippers) best team play the [best game in the world](https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/babe_ruth_140116) at [one of the ten best](https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/minors/2025/03/26/huntington-park-voted-top-10-minor-league-ballparks-usa-today-10best-awards/82656048007/) baseball stadiums in the United States in their 2026 home Saturday opener! The first pitch is scheduled for 4:05 p.m. The gates always open an hour before the scheduled first pitch. I'm usually at the ballpark a half an hour before the scheduled first pitch. Clippers' games usually last around two and a half hours. Being a few minutes early will help us secure good seats. **Parking** I personally always like to park in the [McConnell Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/McConnell+Garage/@39.9685114,-83.0103938,17z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388f24145462d1:0x6238c0f0c851ab70!8m2!3d39.9692957!4d-83.0081175!16s%2Fg%2F1jkw6y27y?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExNi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). If nothing else is going on in the area, this should be $7. However, I've also seen it be as high as $22. I can't say for certain what it will be for this game, but once I know, I will post in the comments. Alternately, there are other lots in the area you can try which will probably be a few dollars cheaper. [Here is a map](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/q_auto/milb/ernng44ya2xkr4wbheql) of all the garages and lots surrounding the stadium. Keep in mind that many of these are outdoor lots and your car will be out in the elements. If you decide to look for a different lot, I would mildly recommend either the Buggyworks Lot or the Broadbelt Lot, but I have never parked in either of these myself. Although it won't apply for this game, keep in mind that street parking is also free citywide in Columbus on [Sundays and holidays](https://www.columbus.gov/files/sharedassets/city/v/1/public-service/right-of-way-permit/on-street-parking-out-of-service-policy-and-procedure-final-8.15.2022-signed.pdf). **Where We'll Be** Here is a [map of the ballpark](https://img.mlbstatic.com/milb-images/image/upload/milb/qkqohbqjgtx5uwo6zkgn.pdf). We'll be sitting on Level 3 of the [Left Field Building](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/huntington-park) (aka the "AEP Power Pavilion"), which features a 110 foot bar with six open patios overlooking the field. This area is covered and will be out of any sun or rain that may transpire. If you enter the park through the Center Field Entrance (which is at the intersection of Nationwide Blvd. and Neil Ave.), there will be a door to your immediate right after you enter that leads to a staircase up into the Tower. This door is not well-marked, and if you've never been to Huntington Park before, you may wonder if you're actually allowed to go in and up the stairs. Yes, you are. We'll be on the Tower's "Level 3". I have uploaded to the Photos section of this event page, below, a picture of the sign you want look for after you ascend the stairs, so you'll know you're on the correct floor. **Tickets** Do not buy your tickets ahead of time. They will literally be twice as expensive if you buy them on Ticketmaster. Instead, go to the ticket window near the Center Field Entrance. Buy a *Standing Room Only* ticket (don't worry, you won't be standing), which will cost you a flat $8 with no other taxes or fees. These tickets never sell out, and this is the cheapest way to get into the park. **Carry-Ins** Per the team's [website](https://www.milb.com/columbus/ballpark/a-z-guide): "Soft-sided coolers are permitted in the general seating area [which is where we'll be], but not hard-sided coolers; also no alcohol, glass bottles, or cans will be permitted. SMALL bags or backpacks of food items and beverages in plastic bottles are ok. Reusable water bottles are permitted, but must be empty upon arrival. Diaper bags are allowed." I always bring a disposable plastic bottle of water and refill it as I need at the park. Bottled water at the game is something like 4 or 5 dollars. So if you want a bottle of water, I recommend bringing your own bottle instead of buying it at the park. **Food & Drink** The area we'll be in has burgers, hot dogs, salads, soft pretzels, ice cream, and other sorts of things you would expect at a baseball game. I've posted pics of the menu in the Photos section, below. The burger and fries are $14 plus tax, and they're not bad. (This is what I usually get.) The beer is *really* overpriced. It's like $9, or $20 for a pitcher. If there's some people to help me drink it, though, I'll buy a pitcher of Michelob Ultra. While we'll be on the penultimate floor of the Tower, the top floor (which has a great view, but is fully exposed to the elements) has a [Dirty Frank's](https://dirtyfranks.com/) hot dog stand. I've never gotten anything from there, though I've been told it's good. The Donatos pizza stand is also a very short walk away from where we'll be. I love Donatos, but the pizza is so expensive at the ballpark. It's like $9 for a personal-sized pepperoni. It is good, though. **Peroration** Let's (watch them) play ball!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Fox in the Snow Cafe](https://www.foxinthesnow.com/) in Dublin!

**Karaoke Night**: Bring your glee club friends. Enjoy a flashback to your choir days. No chorus line. It's all you baby. Sing. Shout. Scream. Lip sync if you need to. But do show up and do have a good time. **On Freestyle night** \- just bring a bottle to share\. There is NO formal wine tasting like on other weeks\. Door charge is $10 \(cash or Venmo only please\)\. We may have some left over wines to clear out\! Glasses are provided\. Take Care\. See you there\. **Parking**: There are several public parking lots near the Alive614 hall. Please be careful to NOT park in private parking lots. They do tow. Check Google maps to scope out your space. Anyone who is early could easily find a parking space on the street nearby. I am told that the Chase parking lot is safe after hours. **Glasses**: …will be provided. Please note that after the wine tasting, the EMPTY glasses need to be returned to the boxes at the service table. Please do not make me hunt down your empty glass. Please be gentle, our glasses are fragile. Uh, they are made of glass! **Food**: You are welcome to bring a snack to share. It is not required. Most people do though. If no one brings anything, there will be nothing. **Code of Conduct**: Though mostly understood, it’s still worth mentioning. We don’t have rules per se, but we highly discourage the following topics of discussion because they are likely to incite anti-social responses - Sex, Politics, Religion. Please don’t mistake this as an attempt to limit your free speech rights but rather a guide to a place and time for appropriate discussions. **After the lights go out**: After the last sip of wine, when we clean up and turn the lights out, if you still haven’t had enough of us, it is typical for a group to get together and go to a local eatery for food and/or drinks or coffee. Again, We look forward to meeting new members and reuniting with old friends. Sincerely, ***Paul Uttermohlen***, **Red 1 Realty** *Your Hilliard Wine Club Host*