Orchestra

Perhaps you live or work DOWNTOWN? Close to Roy Thomson Hall. **If so, how about join us for something different over *your lunch-hour!!*** On a Monday. RESERVE your own FREE ticket at the link below--- **Now in its 51st season, Hamilton Children’s Choir** (HCC) continues to inspire through passion, creativity, and community. With nearly 250 singers across six progressive choirs, HCC offers children and youth - from toddlers to young adults - a rich musical education and transformative performance experiences. The organization is devoted to nurturing artistry, fostering belonging, and empowering young people through the act of singing together. Recent performance video--(lovely voices) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0hmX_sKv0c **Under the artistic leadership of Melanie Tellez**, HCC has expanded both its reach and its imagination, redefining what a children’s choir can be. The choir is recognized nationally and internationally for its expressive sound, dynamic movement, and innovative programming. Recent highlights include Europa Cantat Junior (Ghent, Belgium, 2023), multiple prizes at the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod (Wales, 2024), and a featured collaboration with the National Arts Centre Orchestra (Ottawa, 2025). HCC is also deeply committed to artistic and community collaboration. Its projects have brought together musicians, poets, choreographers, and visual artists, including Hamilton Philharmonic & Youth Orchestras, McMaster University, Supercrawl Festival, and an inspiring roster of national and international composers, artists, choirs and conductors. *Choir & Organ is supported by the Edwards Family Foundation.* **FREE ticket link--** https://roythomsonhall.mhrth.com/tickets/hamilton-childrens-chorus/#event-detail RTH will then email you your tickets about 7 days before June 1.

**Welcome to Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa!** **Spring is in the air, and with it comes the promise of new beginnings, fresh energy, and the joy of connection!** As the season of renewal unfolds, we invite you to step into the rhythm of community, dance, and celebration at Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa. My objective has always been to create a different kind of social gathering—one that is open, non-judgmental, and safe. A place where you can meet people just like you, where socializing and dancing come together to help build community and tear down the walls that separate us. Here, we make new friends, feel a sense of belonging, and enjoy the calmness that comes from knowing we are in a safe and welcoming space. Many times, I have been asked, “Why host an event on Monday night?” Many people escape on the weekend and dread Mondays when they return to work. I believe that if you dance and socialize on a Monday, you infuse your week with joy and positive energy, giving your life balance and helping you face your challenges with enthusiasm and confidence. We’re also thrilled to announce that our trial of advanced Bachata lessons, which began last September, has been a resounding success! Building on this momentum, we’re excited to offer an enhanced schedule for 2026. Our dance evenings will now feature three hours of classes: one hour of beginner to intermediate Bachata, one hour of advanced Bachata, and one hour of beginner to intermediate Salsa. As always, the entrance fee remains $15 for a night of 2 lessons and social dancing. For those interested in the advanced Bachata lessons, there will be an additional $5 fee. Here’s our updated schedule: **Miss Bachata – Main Ballroom** 🕖 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Bachata Lesson (No partner required) 🕗 8:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing **Miss Salsa – Round Room** 🕖 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Advanced Bachata Lesson (+$5) **NEW** 🕗 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Beginner to Intermediate Salsa Lesson 🕘 9:00 pm – 12:00 am: Social Dancing ✨ **Additional Details:** ✔️ Free Parking ✔️ Full Bar (Free Water, Beer: $5.75) Over the past decade, organizing Latin dancing events in Mississauga has been a labor of love. Our mission has always been to foster a sense of community, proving that the connections we share are far stronger than the differences that divide us. Loneliness is a growing concern, with over half of U.S. adults and many Canadians experiencing its effects. The COVID-19 pandemic has only heightened this issue. Harvard University's long-term study on happiness, which began in 1938, highlights the detrimental impact of loneliness on health. People with strong social connections experience slower mental and physical decline and greater overall happiness compared to those who are isolated. Here are some key findings from the study: 🌿 Close ties help delay mental and physical decline more than money, fame, social class, IQ, or genetics. 🌿 Relationship satisfaction is a better predictor of aging well than cholesterol levels in middle age. 🌿 A strong sense of community improves memory function. 🌿 Loneliness can be as harmful to health as smoking or alcoholism. And there’s hope! Strengthening our relationships and supporting community initiatives can combat loneliness and build healthier, happier lives. Miss Bachata & Miss Salsa provides a wonderful opportunity to make new friends, expand your social circle, and enjoy a safe, welcoming, authentic environment. Bring your open heart and a smile, and we’ll take care of the rest. 🌸 **Cheers to a season of renewal, joy, and community!** 🌸 **Anna G.** https://www.meetup.com/LatinDanceMeetup https://www.facebook.com/groups/1871491806494168/ https://www.facebook.com/EventsByAnnaG

Trafalgar Toastmasters provides a supportive & positive learning environment in which members are empowered to develop communication and leadership skills, resulting in greater self confidence and personal growth. A Toastmasters meeting is a learn-by-doing workshop in which participants hone their speaking and leadership skills in a no-pressure atmosphere. There is no instructor in a Toastmasters meeting. Instead, members evaluate one another’s presentations. This feedback process is a key part of the program’s success. Do you have questions about Toastmasters? Are you interested in attending as a guest? Please contact our VP of Public Relations, trafalgar.toastmasterpr@gmail.com, with any questions you may have.

Ready to add more fun, movement, and connection to your week? Come join our group dance classes at [Access Ballroom](https://studioaccessballroom.com/)! We have classes **every day except Tuesday**—that’s Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday at 7:50pm, and Weekends at 3:40pm. Visit our [Monthly Calendar](https://studioaccessballroom.com/class-schedule/) to view the group class Schedule. To sign up you can also download our APP that is in both the Google Play store and the Apple Store. Just look up Access Ballroom. Whether you’re a total beginner or already have some moves, you’ll fit right in! We always have multiple teachers on hand to guide every level, so everyone gets the attention they need. Our amazing environment and welcoming atmosphere are what make us one of Toronto’s premier Latin and Ballroom studios—and it’s why we have the most Google reviews in the city! Don’t just take our word for it—come experience the energy, laughter, and community for yourself. We can’t wait to see you on the dance floor!

Our beginner Argentine Tango classes will start on April 6th at Society ClubHouse (967 College St) and we’d love to have you! Argentine Tango is all about connection, rhythm, and feeling the music. No prior experience is needed. This class is designed for first-timers and those curious about Tango. 💃🕺Class Packages: ✨ Standard Package (Monthly) 4-Week Course (4 Lessons): $100 cad per person Perfect for those looking for a consistent dance journey. ✨ Drop-in / Single Lesson First Discovery Lesson: $25 cad per person Regular Drop-in: $30 cad per person Flexible options for busy schedules or a quick trial. 🎓 Student Special (Monthly) 4-Week Course (4 Lessons): $80 cad per person (Valid student ID required.) No partner required. Please let us know which role you’d like to learn so we can help keep a good balance in the class. 💃🕺 Kind note: By filling out this form, you are reserving a spot in the class. We kindly ask that you attend the session you sign up for, as spots are limited. We can’t wait to dance with you! 💃🕺 What to wear:Comfortable clothing is recommended. For shoes, we suggest something with a smooth sole that can slide easily (e.g., leather or similar). If you’re new, don’t worry! Just avoid very grippy sneakers, and you’ll be fine! You can also contact us by email tango@nocheslargas.com

latin and ballroom mix dance lessons, learn few dances from latin or ballroom category. free paring, large dance studio. cha cha rumba jive waltz tango etc

⚠️日本語の案内は下にあります⚠️ 🎟Fee: $5 🌱Payment: Cash or E-transfer If you choose E-transfer, we recommend sending it **before** arrival to: ✉️canasianstation@gmail.com 🗣Event Style ・This event is 18 + only ・Group-based language exchange ・Small groups of 3–4 people ・Use both Japanese and English to communicate 🕒Schedule 6:15 – 6:30 Check-in 6:30 – 7:10 Round 1 7:10 – 7:15 Seat change 7:15 – 7:55 Round 2 7:55 Wrap-up 💫Friendly Guidelines • Participants with 2 no-shows may be removed from future events • This is not a dating or matchmaking event. You cannot request specific people to talk to. If you have an NG (someone you prefer not to be matched with), please let us know in advance • Photos may be taken for Instagram and event pages. If you do not wish to appear in photos, please inform the organizer beforehand • Harassment, discrimination, sexual harassment, solicitation, or inappropriate behavior is strictly prohibited. If you notice any issues, please inform the organizer 🤝About This Event (Important) This is a group-based Language Exchange event. • One-on-one conversations with Japanese participants • Conversations with participants of a specific nationality ➡️are not guaranteed. 🎟️参加費：5ドル 🌱支払い方法：現金 or E-transfer ※E-transferをご利用の方は、到着**前に** ✉️Canasianstation@gmail.com へ送金していただくことを推奨しています 🗣️イベント形式 3〜4人のグループで、日本語と英語を使った国際交流🌏※本イベントは18歳以上限定です。 🕖タイムスケジュール 6:15 – 6:30 Check-in 6:30 – 7:10 第1ラウンド 7:10 – 7:15 席替え 7:15 – 7:55 第2ラウンド 7:55　解散 💫参加にあたって ・2回以上のNo-show（キャンセル無しの無断欠席）があった場合、以降の参加をお断りします ・本イベントはデート・マッチング目的の場ではありませんので、特定の「話したい人」の指定はできません。 ※NGの方がいる場合は、事前にお知らせください ・Instagram・イベントページ用に写真撮影を行う場合があります。写りたくない方は事前にお知らせください ・セクハラ、差別的発言、嫌がらせ、勧誘行為は固く禁止しています。もし見かけた場合は、主催者までご連絡ください 🫶イベントについて 本イベントは Language Exchange（言語交流）を目的としたグループ形式のイベントです。 ・カナダ人との一対一での会話 ・特定の国籍の参加者との会話 →これらを保証するものではありません。

Join us for **A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical** — an exhilarating, hit-filled Broadway sensation that tells the inspiring true story of how a kid from Brooklyn rose to global stardom, set to the unforgettable songs that made him a legend. ***Our group will be seated in Balcony @ $56 (regular $89) plus service fee. Other discount tickets are also available. CLICK ON "Read More" BELOW FOR FULL DETAILS.*** **The Show:** Created in collaboration with **Neil Diamond** himself,  **A Beautiful Noise** is the uplifting true story of how a kid from Brooklyn became a chart-busting, show-stopping American rock icon. With 120 million albums sold, a catalogue of classics like "America," "Forever in Blue Jeans," and "Sweet Caroline," an induction into the Songwriters and Rock & Roll Halls of Fame, a Grammy® Lifetime Achievement Award, and sold-out concerts around the world that made him bigger than Elvis, **Neil Diamond's** story was made to shine on Broadway — and head out on the road across North America.  Like *Jersey Boys* and *Beautiful: The Carole King Musical* before it, **A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical** is an inspiring, exhilarating, energy-filled musical memoir, that tells the untold true story of how America’s greatest hitmaker became a star, set to the songs that defined his career. *** **OUR DISCOUNT TICKETS** **Group Tickets:** * **$56\*** (regular $89 for Balcony Rows E and F *(\*Only single seats left in Balcony Rows F to H*) **Other Tickets:** * **$80** (regular $119 for Orchestra Rows R to U far sides and rear, Dress Circle Rows H to K far sides and rear, Balcony Rows A to E) * **$96** (regular $139 for Orchestra Rows L to P far sides, Dress Circle Rows E to J sides and centre, Balcony ) * **$120** (regular $169 for Orchestra Rows AAA to Q mostly centre, Dress Circle Rows A to H centre and sides) **Service Fee:** $11 per ticket ***No Meetup Fee*** *** **HOW TO PAY** 1\. Sign up on this event page 2\. Send an email to **belindameetup@gmail.com** to request the payment instructions 3\. Specify you are inquiring about **A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical** 4\. Include the name you use on this Thumbs Up Theatre website\. 5\. Belinda will email you the payment instructions 6\. If you don't receive the instructions in your inbox\, check your junk box in case it has gone there **PLEASE NOTE:** Belinda will NOT respond to requests from members who have not signed up on this event page before requesting the payment instructions! She will also NOT respond to members who do not use the email form and/or block their email address! Members must purchase their ticket(s) in advance from Belinda. Purchase early to avoid disappointment. Pick up your ticket(s) from Belinda at the meetup spot on the day of performance. \*\*\* **OVERVIEW** **When:** Thursday, June 4, 2026 **Time:** Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Meet Belinda between 6:45 p.m. and 7 p.m. **Where:** Princess of Wales Theatre, 300 King Street West, Toronto, Ontario **Show Length:** 2 hours, 30 minutes with intermission *** **ACCESSIBILITY** The Princess of Wales Theatre has elevators that can take you to all levels. However, all seats (even Orchestra aisle seats) have some steps. If you have difficulty using stairs, let Belinda know. Our group seats are in Balcony. *** **MEETUP ARRANGEMENTS** Meet Belinda any time between 6:45 p.m. and 7 p.m. near the last box office window on the right side (as you face the box office) **INSIDE** the theatre. Belinda is very short and will be wearing a bright pink hat and bright pink glasses. Pick up your ticket(s) from Belinda at the meetup spot. Cell # (416) 879-7575 (text/call) for use on the day/time of the performance ONLY). **Intermission Meetup Spots:** TBD **PLEASE NOTE OUR ZERO-TOLERANCE [CELLPHONE POLICY](https://www.meetup.com/thumbs-up-theatre-toronto/events/243426512/)**

To sign up to play, please post a comment on the meetup, reserving your spot. You attend, simply RSVP to the meetup The time limit for each performer is 7 minutes. Please shorten your piece if it exceeds 7 minutes so everyone will have time to play ======= COST ====== We use GoFundMe as a vehicle to collect donations for our costs [https://gofund.me/4ee1b73](https://gofund.me/4ee1b739) Expand the "description" to view an exact breakdown of costs, collected donations, and the current goal. Any additional donations above the goal will be carried forward to the next recitals Generally, performers donate a suggested donation of $20 and attendees donate what they can ======= SCHEDULE ====== 1 - Prasa 2 - Alex 3 - Vincent 4 - Sean S 5 - Tricia 6 - Roberte 7 - Lin 8 - Graham 9 - James 10 - Andrey 11 - Leona 12 - Pat 13 - Lorienne 14 - Starch 15 - Marko Waiting list Karl

Please reserve your spot by registering on the below link : https://www.eventbrite.com/e/join-biggest-community-investors-founders-toronto-online-tickets-1975993203865?aff=meetup QUESTIONS ? Pls Reach out to; Rose - +971528033410 ( WhatsApp Only)

Bring any piece of music in any form. We'll deconstruct it's musical elements and share with each other what the music evokes and what insights arise. Then, consider how this musical work fits into the broader world of music and sound. After a break well do a musical exercise together and end with a short slent meditation. Advance registration with pay pal $20. Please call Gary to confirm your registration. 647 292 5415 Generosity policy: limited spots available for no or low charge fir those who need it.

Join us for an evening of French conversation at B Espresso Bar in the atrium of the Toronto Royal Conservatory of Music (near St. George station)!
We welcome all levels of French, and it's free\*.
Venez pratiquer votre français! \*While there is no fee to attend this event, guests are expected to purchase something from B Espresso Bar, in accordance with RCM's restrictions on usage of the cafe atrium space. **Building location:** The Royal Conservatory is at 273 Bloor St W, between Varsity Stadium and the Royal Ontario Museum (ROM). There are entrances off Bloor St. and Philosopher's Walk. If you enter from Bloor St through the large glass doors, follow the hallway on the left beside the staircase and turn left at the end. (Closest TTC: St. George) **Notes and restrictions:** The host may or may not attend this event. Attendees are encouraged to seat themselves at two or more adjacent tables, as needed. Please form groups of 6 people at each table; do not rearrange chairs and tables to accommodate more people, as this obstructs the narrow walking space. Guests are expected to order something from the cafe, and are asked to please refrain from bringing outside food or drink. Attendees must leave the building at 8pm when the cafe stops serving. **Contributions:** If you are a regular with us and would like to support the group, please send any contributions by e-transfer to [diskutomeetup@gmail.com.](http://diskutomeetup@gmail.com.) The yearly donation goal and amounts received year-to-date will be tracked anonymously on [this google sheet](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/18GfqYsis8Cf2XGg4KsKQJsY_0Fv3bsSQHwJAxvC1Km8/edit?usp=sharing). Thank you so much for your support.

## Rehearsal Details: Thursday evenings 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m, Earl Bales Community Centre 4169 Bathurst St., just south of Sheppard, in Toronto. Email our membership chair, if you are interested in attending a rehearsal. **Lisa Taylor: 647-886-1766, [membershipchair@torontoaccolades.com](mailto:membershipchair@torontoaccolades.com)** Do you love to sing? Do you love performing for live audiences? The Toronto Accolades Chorus brings women-centric singers together to sing and perform a cappella harmony. Harmony connects people from all backgrounds, ages, and musical abilities to create a community where you can not only sing, but find a space to connect with other strong and dedicated people just like you. For decades, we've provided a venue for singers to express themselves, make quality music together, and form bonds beyond measure, and we invite you to join us for the ride. We welcome guests and work with them to find out their voice range and to determine what part (lead, tenor, baritone or bass) they would sing best. Guests are given a music folder and encouraged to participate in singing with the chorus in subsequent weeks. Although we continually strive for musical excellence, prior musical training is not necessary to belong to our chorus. We provide everyone with sheet music, audio learning tracks, education and guidance. At the end of 6 weeks, we ask each prospective member to audition, to ensure that they can hold their part in a four-part harmony song.

Join us for **Arcadia**, Tom Stoppard’s dazzling time-shifting masterpiece that blends romance, science and wit in a story spanning from 1809 to the present day. ***You can use our promo code to purchase discount tickets for any performance.*** **THE PLAY:** In 1809, the Coverlet family estate’s grounds are being landscaped into picturesque gardens that include a hermitage. We follow the brilliant Thomasina and her tutor Septimus as they explore mathematics, science and the nature of sexuality and romance. In the modern-day timeline, Coverley family descendants and scholars try to unearth the truth about a possible scandal at the estate, that might have involved Lord Byron. Often called “a play for thinkers," *Arcadia* weaves a spectacular story that will not only touch the mind but also the heart. Presented by the Scarborough Players. *Recommended for age 14 and up.* \*\*\* **PRICE** **Discount Tickets:** $24 (includes all fees) *** **HOW TO PURCHASE** Sign up on this event page and use the promo code **THUMBSUP** to get your discount tickets. Use the code to purchase your tickets **[online](https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?ticketing=tscar&rd=1)** or call the box office at (416) 267-9292. ***You do not have to attend with our group. You may use our promo code THUMBSUP to purchase discount tickets for any performance.*** **Seating Arrangements:** Seating is reserved so members may not be able to sit together. However, we will get together before, during and after the show. Belinda will be seated in C-B26. *** **DETAILS** **When:** Saturday, June 6, 2026 **Time:** Show starts at 8 p.m. Meet Belinda at 7:30 p.m. at the theatre. **Where:** Scarborough Village Theatre, 3600 Kingston Road, Scarborough **Runtime:** About 2 hours, 30 minutes with intermission *** **MEETUP ARRANGEMENTS** Meet Belinda at 7:30 p.m. in the theatre lobby beside the box office. Belinda will is very short and will be wearing a pink Los Gatos baseball cap and pink eyeglass frames. Cell # (416) 879-7575 for use on day/time of performance only. **Intermission & After-Show Meetup Spots:** Meet Belinda beside the box office in the same place as you met her before the show. **\*\*\*** **[THUMBS UP CELLPHONE POLICY:](https://www.meetup.com/Thumbs-Up-Theatre-Toronto/events/243426512/)** Cellphones must be turned off, or kept in silent or flight mode (no sound and no vibration), and MUST NOT be pulled out or used under any circumstances during shows.

This is a time where players of all ages, and skill levels can gather and enjoy a nice Sunday full of Chess!

**✅ Bachata Mondays with Todd Smith!** **👉 Beginner Bachata Class** **$15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** . 7:00 pm – 7:15 pm … Registration 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm … Beginner Class . **👉 Intermediate Bachata Class** **= $15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** . 8:15 pm – 8:30 pm Registration 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Intermediate Class . **👉 If You Take Both Bachata Classes** **= $25 In Advance / $35 At the Door** . **👉 Buy Advance Tickets Now at:** . https://columbussalsadancing.com/bachata-mondays-dance-class-tickets/

REGISTER HERE: [SIGN UP TODAY](https://link.elitereimm.com/widget/form/mUCJcb9LFDGoPqRg82jP?am_id=debbie4540) Should a real estate investor get a real estate license? Sometimes it’s a massive advantage… and sometimes it can complicate your business if you don’t know what you’re walking into. In this training, we’ll cut through the “agents vs investors” drama and focus on one thing: **what makes you more money and gives you more leverage**. You’ll learn: * **When being licensed helps investors win** (better access, better data, better terms, better deal flow) * How investors use a license to **create extra profit centers** (commissions, referrals, listings, buyer rep, property management pathways) * The truth about **MLS access, pocket listings, and being first to the good deals** * How licensing impacts **wholesaling, double-closing, assignments, and disclosures** * What brokerages don’t tell you: **fees, splits, compliance, and time requirements** * When it’s smarter to **partner with an agent** instead of becoming one * A simple decision framework: **licensed vs partnered vs hybrid model** You’ll walk out knowing whether licensing fits your goals—and if it does, the cleanest path to do it without slowing down your investing. REGISTER HERE: [SIGN UP TODAY](https://link.elitereimm.com/widget/form/mUCJcb9LFDGoPqRg82jP?am_id=debbie4540)

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." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!” SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php) PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! 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

Westerville Pride Festival Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information! Location and other info will be announced soon :)

**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.