Northern California
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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out northern california events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the northern california events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find northern california events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Northern California Events Today
Join in-person Northern California events happening right now
BINGO Online (Win Prizes!)
**\*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)
Insight Meditation of Northern Virginia
**LOCATION CHANGE as of APRIL 1, 2026:**
**Body Grace has moved to 133 Maple Avenue East, 3rd Floor, above the Bear Branch Tavern.**
Whether you're new to Insight meditation or an advanced practitioner looking for like-minded people to sit with, you're welcome to join us at our Sunday morning drop-in group, sponsored by the Insight Meditation Community of Washington. Insight meditation cultivates our natural wisdom and compassion. Meditation practice develops concentration, which allows us to calm and steady the mind.
This class includes a 30-minute lightly-guided meditation, followed by a short talk and time for questions and discussion. The size of the group usually runs somewhere between 25-40 people in-person and between 12-25 online. Chairs are provided, or you may bring a sitting cushion or bench. You may also use the blankets and bolsters offered by the yoga studio.
**We offer both in-person and online attendance.**
To learn more about our topics and teachers, view our videos or **get the Zoom link**, visit our [class page](https://imcw.org/event/?eventId=735&utm_source=MeetUp&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=vienna-drop-in).
May 17 Invasive Plant Removal at TRI
April showers bring May flowers! We are NPS Weed Warriors and Arlington Regional Master Naturalists and you should volunteer with us on Sunday, May 17 to learn about nature and remove invasive plants from everyone's favorite urban island.
Meet us at the entrance to the bridge (on the parking lot side, look for the sign) at 10:00 and bring your garden gloves and loppers/pruners if you have them. If not, we can provide gloves and tools. Wear long sleeves and pants and don't forget a water bottle.
We will have tasks ranging from easy (cutting English ivy and honeysuckle vines from trees) to hard (sawing down bush honeysuckle).
Parking at TRI can be tight if it's a pretty day. When the parking lot is full, you can park in Rosslyn and take the trail down. If you can bike or walk or take public transit, that's wonderful.
We'll see you there!
Erica, Stephanie, and Heidi
P.S. If you can't wait until then to RIP (Remove Invasive Plants!), go here to find more volunteer opportunities in Arlington parks:
[Volunteer to Restore Native Habitat – Arlington Regional Master Naturalists (armn.org)](https://armn.org/volunteer-opportunities/)
Sunday BJJ Open Mat at Pedro Sauer Academy in Herndon, VA 🥋
Join us [every Sunday at Pedro Sauer Academy](https://www.pedrosaueracademy.com/martial-arts-class-schedule-herndon-va/) (PSA) in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) for open training in [Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brazilian_jiu-jitsu) (BJJ): **Research**, **Review**, and **Roll**! 🥇
This is a **student-driven session** designed to help you explore what matters most to your BJJ development.
Whether you want to **research techniques, review material from the week**, or **roll with different partners**, this open format gives you the flexibility to focus on your own goals.
An **instructor will be present** to answer questions, offer feedback, and help troubleshoot positions, but the pace and flow of the session are entirely up to you.
You can **drill, experiment**, or **get in some live rounds** in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Open training is ideal for students who want to **refine their technique, test new ideas, and build confidence** through *consistent practice*.
All skill levels are welcome -- come train, learn, and grow with the **[Northern Virginia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu community](https://www.meetup.com/northern-virginia-martial-arts-group/)**!
**Note:** We are located in **Suite #130**.
This event is **free of charge**.
The [PSA open mat schedule](https://nvma.group/va/herndon/pedro-sauer-academy/bjj-open-mat-schedule/) has been cross-posted on the NVMA Group website as well.
Yoga for Everyone – Gentle Flow & Meditation
Theme: Gentle Flow Yoga & Meditation
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Time: Sunday 9:00 – 10:00 AM
Location: Bluemont park
Cost: Free
What to bring: Yoga mat, water, comfortable clothing
Location: Basketball court of Bluemont park, google map 38°52'06.2"N 77°07'52.0"W
Parking: South Bluemont Parking Area
About the session
*A gentle flow-based yoga session to move, stretch, and reconnect with your body.
We may include simple breathing techniques and a short meditation session.
- This is not a high-intensity class.
You are welcome to go at your own pace and take breaks anytime.
*Suitable for beginners and regular practitioners.
Notes
- Light food is recommended before practice
*Outdoor session: feel free to bring sunscreen, towel, or anything you need
- Please be mindful of your own body and practice within your limits
By joining, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health and well-being during the session.
About the host
200h Yoga Teacher Training (2019)
Long-term yoga practitioner and part-time teacher
🌿 May you find a moment of ease and connection in your practice.
**Smiley Social documents:**
1. [Group Rules](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1HrG35p_0M08leRvCp8XWG3CMkr_GL928XFabl5T6Dvg)
2. [Liability Waiver](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1W2mq-7m99lmvd7gdWYaSUFtvVg4UGnzV6koafAbHmco)
Ethical Culture's 150th Year - Looking Back and Forward
# Ethical Culture's 150th Year - Looking Back and Forward
When: Sunday, May 17, 2026. 11AM, Doors open at 10:45 for coffee
Where: Green Hedges School, 415 Windover Ave NW, Vienna, VA 22180
Felix Adler founded Ethical Culture 150 years ago as a non-theistic religion dedicated ethics and seeking to improving the human condition.Randy will read excerpts from his founding address and see how they resonate in the world today and present Ethical Culture's unique ideas.
Ethical Culture may be small but we are mighty.
Randy Best, NoVES Leader
This is an in-person only meeting.
Come early get coffee!
Easy Hike: 2-3 miles Lake Artemesia
**Lake Artemesia Walk – College Park**
Join us for a relaxed, easy-paced walk around beautiful Lake Artemesia. A chance to unwind, enjoy nature, and connect with others in a calm, welcoming setting.
We’ll walk the scenic loop, take in the lake views, and enjoy light conversation along the way. All fitness levels are welcome.
**Main parking lot:**
**55th Ave & Berwyn Rd**
College Park, MD 20740
Bring plenty of water, whatever you need for your hike, and your awesome authentic self. Keep it easygoing.
RELEASE OF LIABILITY & ASSUMPTION OF RISK AGREEMENT:
By being a member of this Group, RSVPing to any Activity, or participating in any Activity, You accept and agree to the terms and conditions described below:
1. You acknowledge that hiking in nature carries the risk of potential harm to yourself, including the risk of injuries such as broken bones or muscle/tendon injuries, illness, disability, or death.
2. You agree that You will at all times be responsible for Yourself and Your own safety.
3. You release and hold harmless with respect to all injury, disability, death, or loss of property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, this group's leadership and members for the hikes that you participate in.
4. You acknowledge and agree that this Group is merely a collection of friends or potential friends who enjoy doing activities, and that in no event does any Organizer or Other Member assume any responsibility or liability for You.
5\. You agree not to sue and to release\, discharge\, waive and hold harmless all organizers and other members from and against all liabilities\, claims\, demands\, losses\, damages\, suits and proceedings\, for negligence\, carelessness or any other cause which you may have or that hereafter may accrue arising\, resulting from or related to your membership in this group or participation in any activity\.
Northern California Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
9/18 HOLES SUNDAY @ Greendale
http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/d/b/d/600_16364477.jpeg
Greetings and welcome new members!
Play 9 or 18 holes at Greendale Golf Course.
Greendale Golf Course is an 18-hole regulation course featuring 148 acres of rolling terrain with asphalt cart paths. The course provides a challenging design with tight Bermuda fairways and several water hazards. The 17th hole offers a spectacular view of the entire course and surrounding area.
Greens Fee: 9-holes $35.00 (walking) $51.00 (riding)
18-holes $47.00 (walking) $68.70 (riding)
Pull Carts: 9/18-holes $5.00
6700 Telegraph Road Alexandria, VA 22310
703-971-6170
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/golf/greendale
Please be mindful and keep pace with the group in front of you to avoid congestion on the course.
\*\*Note there is a $2 charge to sign up for this Meetup. This is a non-refundable fee used for no-show and website costs. Each golfer is responsible to pay green fees on the day of the event, to the course. If you fail to show up on the day of the event (without canceling by the date specified above, you will be responsible for your greens fees to the course). NoVA Golfers Association, LLC is a Meetup group only, and it is not responsible for any liabilities associated with the event.
Meaningful Conversation and Coffee - Northside Social Falls Church
**Join us in Falls Church for conversations that go beyond small talk.**
Higher Grounds – Falls Church is where this growing network of gatherings began: a space for thoughtful, authentic dialogue about what matters most. Whether we’re exploring the nature of happiness, the challenges and possibilities of midlife, spirituality, culture, capitalism, parenting, or the role of art and travel in a meaningful life, every conversation is shaped by the people in the room.
There’s no set leader or rigid agenda—just a shared commitment to listen as much as we speak. We start with brief introductions focused on what makes you *you* (not your LinkedIn bio), then dive straight into whatever is on people’s minds. The direction of each meetup emerges organically, making every event unique.
MANDATORY: PLEASE REVIEW OUR COMMUNITY GUIDELINES IN THE GROUP DESCRIPTION. Everyone is expected to engage in respectful conversations and listen deeply as well as share. We have a zero tolerance policy of sexual harassment and hate speech.
Come ready to share, reflect, and connect with others in Falls Church who are also seeking deeper conversations.
**Suggested Questions: Life Stages & Transitions**
1. What did you think you'd have figured out by now that you're still completely winging?
2. When did you realize your parents' advice was for a world that no longer exists?
3. What are you finally old enough to stop pretending to care about?
**Suggested Questions: Identity After the Roles**
1. Who are you when nobody needs anything from you?
2. What dream keeps resurfacing even though the "practical" time has passed?
3. How do you handle having the freedom you always said you wanted?
**Suggested Questions: AI & Being Human**
1. What human experiences will AI never truly understand?
2. If machines handled all your have-to's, what would you actually do?
3. What becomes more precious as everything becomes automated?
**Suggested Questions: Belief & Meaning**
1. What certainties have you given up, and what rushed in to fill that space?
2. How has knowing someone who died changed how you live?
3. What do you believe now that would shock your younger self?
**Suggested Questions: The Modern Psyche**
1. What anxiety do you carry that previous generations didn't have?
2. Which of your survival strategies are you ready to retire?
3. What uncomfortable truth about happiness did it take you years to accept?
**Suggested Questions: Work & Purpose**
1. When did you stop believing that your job would complete you?
2. What would you do for work if money and status weren't factors?
3. How has your definition of "making it" changed over the years?
**Suggested Questions: Relationships & Connection**
1. What relationship dynamic do you keep recreating, and why?
2. When did you realize your parents were just people trying their best?
3. What kind of loneliness doesn't go away even when you're with others?
**Suggested Questions: Time & Mortality**
1. What are you running out of time to say or do?
2. How differently do you spend your time knowing it's finite?
3. What will you regret not trying, even if you fail?
**Suggested Questions: Society & Culture**
1. What social convention do you follow even though it makes no sense?
2. Which generation do you understand least, and what might you be missing?
3. What aspect of how we live now will seem insane in 20 years?
**Suggested Questions: Personal Philosophy**
1. What rule for life did you create after learning something the hard way?
2. When did you stop believing that everyone else had it figured out
3. What paradox about life have you learned to live with?
Brunch at La Madeleine
The Alexandria Brunch Club is a long running brunch event. We're a friendly bunch of people of different backgrounds, who enjoy a nice morning brunch and fun conversations.
As has been the tradition, La Madeleine's in Old Town Alexandria is our place for brunching on a Sunday of every month.
I find that a Sunday brunch is nice way to socialize and to just get myself out of the house. Afterward, Old Town, the Potomac and the myriad of parks are nice places for strolling after breakfast.
BEST PARKING IN OLD TOWN
Courthouse Square Parking lot
111 S Pitt St - Same side as La Madeliene, Two Doors Down
Usually $1/hour Weekends and after 5pm, Weekdays
For any questions and such feel free to message me. I am the main organizer.
My best to all!
Phil Matera
Hiking with Sparkles
Let’s enjoy some nature together before it gets too hot! Huntley Meadows offers a nice mostly flat walk through the woods and into a protected marshland with plentiful wildlife including birds, frogs, turtles, and a beaver or two if we’re lucky! It’s gorgeous and really feels like being out in nature although we get to stay in Alexandria :)
We will meet at the benches outside the Nature Center (a short walk from the parking lot) at 10am and do a loop into the marshlands.
Folks can join for as much or as little walking as desired; it’s only 1-3 miles to explore the park. We can also explore the nature center or picnic a bit before/after our walk as desired.
Kids and dogs will love this one so bring the family :)
Northern California Events Near You
Connect with your local Northern California community
Memorial Day Potluck at Lake Fairfax
🌳Join us for a Memorial day potluck on Monday May 25th, 2026 at Lake Fairfax Park!
**📍Address:** 1400 Lake Fairfax Dr, Reston, VA 20190
Time: 2PM
🔗LINK to sign up for the potluck [https://freepotluck.com/sheet.php?s=Rdduk5hHFfflzWVuGyYyPA](https://freepotluck.com/sheet.php?s=Rdduk5hHFfflzWVuGyYyPA)
🍲Bring your favorite dishes—food, drinks, desserts, appetizers, or anything else you’d love to share. Let’s enjoy great food, good company, and great music in a beautiful setting!
**🧺I’ve rented a picnic area for the day that includes a grill (to barbecue items) and a covered top next to the lake.**
**To help the organizer cover the cost of the picnic table, we will be asking everyone to submit $5 via Venmo or Zelle. Please do not mark this as a sellers transaction as these platforms will charge a seller fee and the full amount will not be submitted.**
**Please note: Do not RSVP unless you have submitted the payment as this helps track who has paid and who hasnt. Organizer will be removing people from the RSVP list who have not paid before RSVPING. Everyone must bring a dish to share. It can be stored bought or prepared at home.**
💲Venmo username; dina-hourani (last 4 digits of phone # if prompted is 7777). If you dont have Venmo, you can use Zelle (phone: 619-573-7777).
🅿️The Park has plenty of parking. Details of which picnic table is reserved will be indicated as we get closer to the date.
Let’s make this a fantastic gathering! RSVP and feel free to invite friends. I can’t wait to see what everyone brings!
See you there!
Morning Muay Thai (Kickboxing) Training in Herndon, VA 🥊
Join us for [Muay Thai](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muay_Thai) kickboxing at [OSMA in Herndon, VA](https://www.virginiabjj.com/): an energetic morning class focused on striking technique, conditioning, and controlled sparring. 🔥
This adult (16+) class combines **technical instruction, pad work, partner drills**, and **cardio training** to build real-world skill and endurance in a safe, structured setting.
Beginners and experienced students alike will learn how to apply the principles of **Muay Thai: *The Art Of Eight Limbs***, through precise **strikes**, **timing**, and **defense**.
Classes take place every **Saturday** at **10:00 AM**.
The **drop-in fee is $20**, payable on-site, and note that we are located in **suite #130**.
Come train with us and see why so many in [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) choose One Spirit Martial Arts for top-tier martial-arts instruction.
**Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
Q: Is this class suitable for someone interested in **boxing**?
A: Yes! Muay Thai shares many of the same **striking fundamentals** as [boxing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boxing), including **stance**, **timing**, and **defensive movement**. Students searching for boxing gyms in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) or Northern Virginia train at OSMA to develop **solid punching technique** along with **kicks**, **knees**, and **elbows**.
Kali and FMA training at OSMA in Herndon, VA ⚔️
Learn Kali at OSMA in Herndon, VA: a beginner-friendly Filipino Martial Arts (FMA) class that builds coordination, timing, and confidence. 🔥
Experience FMA training through **partner drills**, **movement flow**, and **practical self-defense applications**.
In this session you’ll:
* Train classic **FMA weapon systems** such as **rattan sticks**, **training knives**, and **empty-hand applications** of Kali and Arnis.
* Develop **coordination**, **timing**, **range awareness** and **reflexes** through **practical drills** drawn from Filipino Martial Arts traditions.
* Improve your **conditioning**, **speed**, and **agility**: FMA’s weapon-based flow patterns and hand-to-hand transitions push both **mind** and **body**.
Join a supportive community of martial arts enthusiasts in [Northern Virginia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northern_Virginia) \-\- whether you're new to weapons training or experienced\, this class is designed to **challenge** and **reward**.
This class is **open to all levels** and emphasizes **safety**, **precision**, and **continuous learning**.
Whether you’re looking to explore **Filipino Martial Arts** (FMA) for **[self-defense](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-defense)**, **coordination training**, **weapons fluency**, or simply finding a **unique**, **dynamic workout** in [Herndon, VA](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herndon,_Virginia) -- *this is your class*.
👉 Come build real **skills**, boost **conditioning**, and ***train with great people*** \-\- j**oin us today and explore the flow and discipline of [Filipino Martial Arts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filipino_martial_arts)!**
The **drop-in fee** for non-members is **$20**, **payable on-site**.
We are located in **Suite #130** — let us know when you arrive and we’ll take care of the rest.
Costa Rica Eco Adventure: Waterfalls, Snorkeling, Zip lines, Rafting, Volcanoes!
***¡¡¡ Pura Vida !!!***
Come alone, leave with friends!
This is what Meetup is all about. Being able to join and do what you wanted to do . . just not alone.
We are going to Costa Rica for 9 nights/10 days of exploration and tropical adventures. . . . **Best Meetup ever!**!
To see how fun it is . . . Here are photos from when we did go before [https://photos.app.goo.gl/cswRyeNZp1r6WW9t9](https://photos.app.goo.gl/cswRyeNZp1r6WW9t9)
Costa Rica is a playground for the adventurous and an eco-tourist's dream! It is an unspoiled tropical paradise.
* Beautiful beaches
* Rainforest biodiversity
* Misty volcanoes
* Roaring rivers
* Lush jungles
* Exotic flora and fauna
* And more!!
**And we are going there to enjoy it, learn about it and make memories of a lifetime!**
This event is a true Meetup. We are creating it from scratch, and bringing like-minded people together on this adventure. Along the way making lifelong memories and friendships.
Together . . . let’s make a Meetup to remember!
* Hike around the base of the Arenal Volcano
* Selvatura Zip Line Canopy Tour
* Guided visit to Finca Luna Nueva Farm
* Caño Negro Refuge Tour/Visit
* Rio Frio Wildlife Refuge Boat Tour
* Hanging Bridges Walking Tour
* Ecotermales Hot Springs
* Monteverde Night Walk Tour
* Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Tour (daytime)
* River Floating Tour
* Tamarindo Beach
* Sunset Sailing
* Snorkeling Tour
* And more!
For a detailed Day By Day itinerary **[Click Here](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)**[ to fill out our info request form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)
**Land Tour cost $3350 per person, double occupancy** (we match roommates for those traveling solo, and most of us are doing just that).
If you want your own room: **Solo occupancy additional $950**
The only way to secure your spot for this meetup is a $300 deposit that is refundable up to 90 days before departure.
**[Click here for secure deposit link](https://www.paypal.com/instantcommerce/checkout/24X2UREP9XPKC)**
When you make a deposit be sure to fill out this [ATTENDEES FORM](https://docs.google.com/forms/d/11uywUNCIB5ONrpZ-gU_4mk3bvpc4p_nhhL3ewsbkC5A/edit)**.**
As we mentioned, . . . the cost is $3350. This is for the "Land" portion only. Airfare is not included. This gives you the flexibility to have a flight with timing that works best for you. Or to use points/miles.
I can also help arranging your airfare. To receive an offer, **[CLICK HERE and send me a message.](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=14363992)**
**What is Included in this trip:**
* **9 Nights hotel accommodation**
* **9 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners.**
* **Meet & Greet at the airport.**
* **Pick-up from airport to our hotel, and hotel to airport at the end of the trip**
* **Transportation throughout the trip**
* **Private naturalist English speaking tour guide**
* **All entrance fees and tours mentioned in the itinerary day-by-day description**
* **Daily water bottles for the group**
* **Hotel and Added Value Tax**
Does not include:
***x*** *International Airfare*
***x*** *Meals other than specified*
***x*** *Optional Tours*
***x*** *All items of personal nature (telephone calls, Laundry, room service, etc.)*
***x*** *Tipping for tour guides and drivers*
**Want more info?**
**[Click Here to fill out our info request form](https://forms.gle/cQdqYw74gAYqphXX8)**
**OR**
**RSVP to the event with your email to receive additional info.**
**OR**
**[CLICK HERE to send me a message](https://secure.meetup.com/messages/?new_convo=true&member_id=14363992)**
Whatever is easiest for you!
*Still have questions?*
**We do a Q & A Zoom once a month.**
**[CLICK HERE](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/296044209/)** for our Q & A Zoom. RSVP on that event to get a reminder for the zoom.
[Click here for the ](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/305233138/)**[MAIN ](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/288444641/)[location of this event on Meetup](https://www.meetup.com/moretoexplore/events/305233138/)** RSVP there to post any discussion and to get notice of any comments and discussions. As well as any updates and reminders
**We believe in good decent social.**
**SOT 2000318-10**
**[Click Here to see all our other events](https://www.meetup.com/CulturalArts/Events)**
Elite Networking Lunch: Elevate Your Connections
Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation).
Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.




























