Social and Cultural Outings

Join us for a fun evening of meeting new people and enjoying drinks at a local bar! This is a great opportunity to make new connections and socialize in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. We’ll be gathering at **Atlantik Bar** from 19:00 onwards. It’s a great spot for beers and exciting conversations in the evenings and during the daytime. The alternative atmosphere can be hard to find in Berlin Mitte, and this is one of the coolest spots in the area. Don’t miss out on this chance to expand your social circle and have a great time. We can’t wait to see you there! 😊 **\*\*How to find us\*\* 😉** 1\. Please don’t ask the bartender where the group is\. Check the next point ❤️ 2\. We will post photos and videos of where the group is sitting on our Slack community\. You can join the community here \- [https://join.slack.com/t/berlinsocials-flock/shared_invite/zt-3lk26f4ok-J2cc7KRFCPe6QCgCdzLtaA](https://join.slack.com/t/berlinsocials-flock/shared_invite/zt-3lk26f4ok-J2cc7KRFCPe6QCgCdzLtaA)

✨ A Stand-Up Comedy Show about fixing ourselves, our parents, and our dating life… ANOTHER DAY!✨ 🌟This stand-up comedy show features the wildest stories and observations about the Berlin party life, his parents, and his dates…sometimes all at once🌟 The show will end around 22:00, so there will still be plenty of time to hit the bar and club scene afterwards. **🎟️ Get your Tickets here:** [https://fienta.com/fixmelater050226](https://fienta.com/fixmelater050226) 🕗**Times:** **5th of February** Doors open: 19:30 Show Start: 20:00 Show ends: 22:00 **📍Location:** **SaliGari** Simplonstraße 23, 10245 Berlin **🎟️ Tickets:** **Standard Admission:** 15€ **Student Admission:** 12€ Tickets for students with valid student ID **Walk-Ins:** €17 at the door (subject to availability) **❓FAQ:** **How funny is it going to be?** Very funny! It will be a mix of clean, dark, and emotional jokes and maybe even some dirty jokes, so whatever your style of comedy is will be part of the show. **How relatable are the jokes?** Like we grew up together! Ludwig was born in Bavaria and is based in Berlin now, which means that whether you come from a village or the big city, you will find the struggles more than relatable. **Should I bring my friends?** Comedy is always best with great company, so yes! Bring your friends and laugh together! **Can I bring my kids?** The show is meant for an audience of at least 16+. **What do audience members say about the show?** Hilarious! - Marcus, Austria 🇦🇹 Great show! - Jenny, Australia 🇦🇺 So funny and weird in a great way! - Josephine, USA 🇺🇸 **More about me:** **LUDWIG BENECKE (CH/GER)** Ludwig Benecke, the relentlessly funny and charming "nice guy" of stand-up comedy! For the past three years, he has been tirelessly showcasing his wit and humor to audiences all over Europe and the United States. As a Swiss-German nice guy navigating the unpredictable world of comedy, Ludwig hilariously recounts his journey from a life as an economic engineer to pursuing a creative career. His material covers everything from dating miseries and his upbringing to sharp observations about his former corporate job, offering a unique and relatable perspective on life's challenges. He is now based in Berlin and has been described by various people as “funny.” **IG @Ludwigcomedy**

**🎟️ Get your tickets here: [https://fienta.com/thecomedysocialberlin?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event](https://fienta.com/thecomedysocialberlin?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event)** **New to Berlin & want to make friends?** Come to The Comedy Social! Featuring some of Berlin's funniest comedians! 🍹 Come for the comedy & stick around afterwards and mingle! 💃🏼🕺 **🗓️ WHEN:** Thursday, 5. February Show begins 20:30 Doors open 20:00 **📍 WHERE:** The Wall Comedy Club Grünberger Straße 84 10245 Berlin **🎟️ TICKETS:** Starting from €11 when booked online €15 at the door, cash or card (subject to availability) **💁🏼‍♀️ ABOUT ŽANA (BIH/USA):** Born in Bosnia, raised in Florida, and living in Berlin, Žana’s comedy mirrors her eclectic cultural background and is best described as Balkan pessimism battling delusional American positivity sprinkled in with reggaeton flair. Within 5 months of starting comedy she became a finalist in the 2022 Berlin New Stand Up Awards and is now hosting & producing shows in Berlin & across Europe. **She was nominated for Manchester’s Women in Comedy Festival Awards as Best Newcomer in 2024 and has opened in English & Spanish for a variety of comedians across Europe in such as Dragos Christian, Dwayne Perkins, Rob Anderson, Elena Gabrielle & Silvia de Frente.** You can catch her perform regularly in Berlin to hear her fresh take on the absurdity of immigration laws, her Balkan background, and growing up in Florida. Žana hosts & produces themed & interactive comedy shows in Berlin & beyond, such as the Berlin Comedy Dating Game Show, Funny Fortunes (a comedy & live tarot reading show), Comedy Confessions (an introvert-friendly themed interactive comedy show), Petty Problems (a comedy mock trial show), & more. **She has performed in 40 cities across 18 countries and all of her shows are 100% self-produced. Thanks for supporting an independent artist!** [www.zanafejzic.com](http://www.zanafejzic.com/) [YouTube](http://youtube.com/@ZanaFejzic) [Instagram](http://instagram.com/zanafejzic) [TikTok](http://tiktok.com/@zanafejziccomedy) **🎟️ Get your tickets here: [https://fienta.com/thecomedysocialberlin?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event](https://fienta.com/thecomedysocialberlin?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event)**

**REGISTER FOR THE EVENT BY DOWNLOADING THE [WEMEET APP HERE.](wemeet.weroad.com/event/ffeb5788-20b5-474a-b0c8-aa776a0ae5cd)** Neu in Berlin? Alte Freunde zu beschäftigt? Zeit, das zu ändern! Wir treffen uns einmal pro Woche, um gemeinsam neue Events zu erleben, neue Leute kennenzulernen und einfach eine gute Zeit zu haben. Bei **Comedy & New Friends** geht es diesmal um **eine Improv Comedy und Jam auf Deutsch**! Freu dich auf eine witzige Show, gute Stimmung und jede Menge Gelegenheit, neue Leute in entspannter Atmosphäre kennenzulernen. 🤝 **Kein Ghosting. Kein Drama.** Wer sich anmeldet, kommt auch. Und wenn nicht: bitte rechtzeitig absagen, damit niemand allein warten muss. Wir übernehmen Organisation und Reservierung. Du bringst Offenheit und gute Laune mit – mehr braucht es nicht! Komm vorbei, lach dich schlapp und lerne deine neuen Freunde kennen! 💚

Bitte kauft in den Restaurants mindestens einen Artikel, damit wir keinen Ärger mit dem Manager bekommen. -> Location Berlin Potsdamer Platz -> The Playce -> Manifesto Markt Wir sitzen unten oft an den großen runden Tischen vor dem Restaurant Kumpir'a oder an den langen Tischen vor dem Pizza und Pasta Restaurant im Erdgeschoss. Dieses Treffen ist für: -Internationale Teilnehmer aus allen Ländern, die auf Deutsch Kontakte knüpfen wollen. -Deutsch-sprachige, die in netter Gesellschaft anderen helfen wollen, Deutsch zu sprechen, oder nur neue Kontakte knüpfen wollen.

Hello friends! We are the team of CaféIN, an inclusive café in Spandau, inviting you to our German language café - Sprach-CaféIN! 😎 With our language café, we aim to create a safe space for everyone to practice real German, without boring grammar exercises and books, but over coffee, conversations and new encounters :) Every person will be warmly welcome at our Sprach-CaféIN, regardless of background and origin. We are happy to see each and everyone of YOU! Our events are not about politics, as we aim to build bridges and bring people together through language and culture. Participation is free, but every participant is **required** to order at least one drink or snack at the café. This helps us support CaféIN and keep this special place alive.

Hey fellow Dragons! ++++++++ Interested in Chinese/German? ++++++++ Learning Chinese/German and need to practice or find language-tandem partners? Interested in cultural exchange? Want to meet awesome internationals? …Or just want to get tips on where to find good Chinese food in Berlin? Whatever the reason, come join us! The more the merrier: such is the Chinese way! ++++++++++++++++ Our meetup structure ++++++++++++++++ Our meetup is relatively unstructured. Groups often form organically and evolve and move throughout the evening consisting of members learning Chinese/German, members who are fluent/native, and the rest who are here to socialize in whatever language they're comfortable with and jumping into whichever conversation they find themselves in. We try our best to fulfil everyone's expectations so we can all benefit from the meetup and have a good time; if you have any suggestions or ideas (such as outings!) please don't hesitate to let us know! :) +++ No time on Thursday's? +++ We meet every second Thursday, but we sometimes have other events, which are not regular and occur on different days/at different locations. Stay tuned for announcements! Looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones :) Cheers & 回头见 Yimu & Xuedi

Welcome to **Electric Social** \- Berlin’s electrifying arcade bar where nostalgia meets nightlife\! Think neon lights\, beers\, retro games\, and the unbeatable Sip Happens vibe you know and love\. Join us for a night of laughter, friendly competition, and laid-back fun as we take over one of Berlin’s coolest new spots. Whether you’re a Mario Kart master, a pinball wizard, or just here for the vibes, there’s something for everyone. 🎮 **What to expect:** ✨ A full bar with great drinks and booths to hang out in 🕹️ Classic arcade & video games to battle your new friends 🥂 The friendliest crowd in Berlin (that’s you lot!) 💬 Chill areas to chat, connect and hang out between rounds This isn’t your average night out — it’s a chance to play, laugh, and meet new people in a place built for fun. So grab your tokens, bring your A-game, and get ready for another unforgettable Sip Happens night! 📍 **Electric Social, Berlin** 🗓️ **Doors open at 20:00** 🎟️ RSVP now to secure your spot – it’s going to be *next-level fun!*

[📸 Scenes from our last kitchen gathering](https://www.instagram.com/vegan_chick_mskmtur/) 😄🥦🥢**Join us for a vegan improv Sushi making meetup !** 🥕🍁 Our fixed theme is **improv inside-out rolled sushi** —I’ll provide the **cooked sushi rice and nori sheets** , and together we’ll assemble rolls using the **ingredients everyone brings**. Some **side dishes may also be created spontaneously**, inspired by the ingredients you contribute. Details at a Glance 🏡 7th Feb 2026 Saturday, 13:00–16:00 (The door opens at 12:45) 💴 Fee: €5 (covers meetup fee, shared ingredients) **🧺 Please Bring: 1 fresh vegetable and 1 vegan ingredient of your choice that you’d like to add to sushi. (please also read what's provided ↓)** 🥢 **Provided:** **cooked white sushi rice**, tofu(soy) carrot\*\*, chick pea based egg.\*\* Some nori sheets.cooking equipment, pantry staples, oils, seasonings, soy sauce ,Jasmine tea etc. I don't provide wasabi because not everyone like it. 🙏📩 **RSVP and confirm your attendance by Friday at noon (12:00) to secure your spot. Any unconfirmed spots may be offered to others.** This event is limited to 7 people and hosted in my private kitchen. Schedule 12:45–13:00 \| Welcome & introductions 13:00–14:30 \| Cooking 14:30–16:00 \| Shared vegan lunch & warm goodbyes **Allergies / Food Intolerances** Some ingredients may contain **wheat (gluten) and soy**. Since participants bring different vegetables and other vegan ingredients, the **exact dishes cannot be confirmed in advance**. **Meeting Point** Levetzowstr. 13 (EG), 10555 Berlin – Moabit *(Accessible via S-Tiergarten, U9 Hansaplatz, or U9 Turmstraße)* ✨ Why Join? ✨ 🍀 Meet new people 🍀 Play with flavors & creativity 🍀 Enjoy cooking and leave with a full belly and a full heart **About the Host** [Hi! I’m Misaki](https://www.instagram.com/p/DBR9no6sMCW/)—a certified vegan/plant-based nutritionist. I usually teach simple, healthy vegan cooking, but this time we’ll make sushi **spontaneously**, inspired by the vegetables everyone brings. I’m really looking forward to **cooking and sharing ideas with you!**

**GET TICKETS: [https://fienta.com/berlincomedydatinggameshowfeb2026?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event](https://fienta.com/berlincomedydatinggameshowfeb2026?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event)** **Just in time for Valentine's Day: Berlin's 1st & only dating game show is back by popular demand! 💞** Berlin's first and only comedy dating game show where your friends help you get a date with other single people in the audience! **💘 HOW IT WORKS:** If you're single & your friend is always bragging how they can find you the perfect date: now's their chance! In this comedy show there are 2 rounds of questions where friends of the single people come up on stage to answer game show style questions on your behalf to help you win a date. At the end of the round, the friend of the bachelor/bachelorette will choose the friend of the contestant whose answers they liked the most. **Not looking for a date?** No problem! That's what the audience ticket is for. **🗓️ WHEN:** Friday, 6. February Show begins 20:00 Doors open 19:30 **📍 WHERE:** Z-Bar Bergstr. 2 10115 Berlin **🎟️ TICKETS:** Starting from €13 when purchased online. €16 at the door (if there's space) **💁🏼‍♀️ ABOUT YOUR HOST, ŽANA (BIH/USA):** Born in Bosnia, raised in Florida, and living in Berlin, Žana’s comedy mirrors her eclectic cultural background and is best described as Balkan pessimism battling delusional American positivity sprinkled in with reggaeton flair. Within 5 months of starting comedy she became a finalist in the 2022 Berlin New Stand Up Awards and is now hosting & producing shows in Berlin & across Europe. **She was nominated for Manchester’s Women in Comedy Festival Awards as Best Newcomer in 2024 and has opened in English & Spanish for a variety of comedians across Europe in such as Dragos Christian, Dwayne Perkins, Rob Anderson, Elena Gabrielle & Silvia de Frente.** You can catch her perform regularly in Berlin to hear her fresh take on the absurdity of immigration laws, her Balkan background, and growing up in Florida. Žana hosts & produces themed & interactive comedy shows in Berlin & beyond, such as the Berlin Comedy Dating Game Show, Funny Fortunes (a comedy & live tarot reading show), Comedy Confessions (an introvert-friendly themed interactive comedy show), Petty Problems (a comedy mock trial show), & more. **She has performed in 40 cities across 18 countries and all of her shows are 100% self-produced. Thanks for supporting an independent artist!** [www.zanafejzic.com](http://www.zanafejzic.com/) **GET TICKETS: [https://fienta.com/berlincomedydatinggameshowfeb2026?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event](https://fienta.com/berlincomedydatinggameshowfeb2026?utm_source=meetup&utm_medium=event)**

**Wir treffen uns am 08.02. um 15:00 im Lesercafé der Stadtbibliothek Spandau für einen gemütlichen Brettspiele-Nachmittag! Es sind viele Spiele vorhanden, aber ihr könnt auch gerne eure Lieblingsspiele mitbringen** Wir möchten eine Gemeinschaft gründen, in der Menschen sich treffen, austauschen und gemeinsam neue Erfahrungen machen. Unser Ziel ist es, eine offene und fröhliche Atmosphäre zu schaffen, in der neue Bekanntschaften entstehen und interessante Gespräche geführt werden können. Bist du neu in Spandau und hast noch nicht richtig Anschluss gefunden? Lebst du schon länger in Spandau und möchtest nicht immer nach Mitte fahren, um Neues zu erleben? Wenn du Lust hast, Teil dieser Gemeinschaft zu werden und gemeinsam schöne Momente zu erleben, bist du herzlich eingeladen, dich uns anzuschließen! Wir freuen uns auf dich! :) \-\-\- **EN** \-\-\- **We are meeting on the 8th of February at 3 pm for a relaxed Boardgames Afternoon at the Lesercafé of the Spandau Library! There will be plenty of boardgames there, but feel free to bring your favourite ones :)** We want to create a community where people can meet, exchange ideas and share new experiences. Our aim is to create an open and friendly atmosphere where you can find new friends and have interesting conversations. Are you new to Spandau and haven't really found your place yet? Have you been living in Spandau for a while and don't always want to travel to Mitte to experience something new? If you would like to become part of this community and experience some great moments together, you are welcome to join us! We are happy to see you soon! :)

**Berlin Short Film Festival 2026** We invite you to join us for a **shared cinema experience** at the **Berlin Short Film Festival 2026:**[BABYLON in Berlin - BSFF](https://babylonberlin.eu/programm/festivals/bsff), followed by an **open discussion**. This block presents a **curated selection of short films**, showcasing diverse voices, styles, and perspectives from international filmmakers. After the screening, we will go together to a nearby café to continue the experience with an informal discussion. 📅 **Friday, February 6, 2026** 🕕 **18:00** ⏱️ **Approx. 90 minutes** **📍 Babylon, Rosa-Luxemburg-Straße 30, 10178 Berlin, Kino 2** 🌍 **Language:** English / German 🎟️ **Online tickets :** [BABYLON in Berlin - BSFF](https://babylonberlin.eu/programm/festivals/bsff) 👉 **[Join Group Chat](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Ba8ZAaH2Yuk6FGmD3LLO7H)**

Our host in person will be Friederike from 2026🧡 We meet at Northwest corner of Siegessäule ( previous Cafe Viktoria. )We will run around the Tiergarten for 6kms. After the first round with the "Tiergarten Running Group", and if you still like us 😉 and feel like it, you can join in for a second loop of 6km. The second loop is optional. Running paces around 5:50 or 6:20 depends on the participants. We will start to run exact 9:00 am. Don't be late. If you are late, please follow the route in the picture. Let's start the Sunday right 💪🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️! Rain 🌧️ or shine ☀️, we run! Cyu all fellow runners there :) Liability: By signing up for this event and participating at this Workout you accept that applicable by law the organizer will not be liable for any damages or injuries arising out of your participation.

**Get ready for savage laughs, kinky confessions, and top-tier comedians spilling the tea on all things fetish. At the legendary Incognito Showpalast, smack in the heart of Schöneberg's iconic LGBT+ nightlife district. (In English!)** Presented by Vilain Garçon Part of BLACKWEEKENDBerlin by male.space – the ultimate leather & fetish blowout! Doors slam open: 8:30 PM Show explodes at: 9:00 PM ***This show is open to all genders and sexualities! We are an English-language event with a k!nky vibe but everyone who is open-minded with a good sense of humour is welcome! Dress up in fetish or just dress however you want!*** **HOST:** **BEN MacLEAN** Ben MacLean has over 30 million views online and is one of Berlin’s most established comedians. A long-time member of BLF e.V – Berlin Leather Fetish, he has hosted the FETISH COMEDY SHOW since it burst onto the scene in 2016. He also emcees Go West Comedy, one of the city’s longest-running showcases, and has performed around the globe. The world’s only diplomat turned comedian, he also works as a flight attendant and content creator. All this to say, If you recognize Ben from some of his “non-comedy” content online, that’s something he’ll neither confirm nor deny. **HEADLINER:** **EMIN AFANDI** Emin Afandi is a Berlin-based comedian originally from Azerbaijan. Known for his sharp and sexy stand-up, Emin's comedy often draws comparisons to Joan Rivers and Ali Wong, particularly for his adeptness at weaving sexual themes into complex political and social discussions. Emin has traveled extensively and performed in many countries across Europe, enhancing his exposure and experience in diverse comedic environments. He also hosts the popular monthly show "Worldvision Comedy Contest," a highlight in Berlin's comedy scene. You can check out his podcast, "The Universe of Roast," available on Spotify. **FEATURED PERFORMER:** **JULIETA** Julieta is a Berlin-based stand-up comedian, active participant in the kink scene, and your favourite bad idea with good timing. She produces and hosts English-language comedy showcases, performing in some of Berlin’s most legendary nightlife locations, including KitKatClub, Kater and Club OST. At parties like Pinky Promise, Fourplay and Liminal she also offers kinky tarot readings that tell you exactly what you already know—but hotter! Originally from somewhere mysterious in the south, she performs across Europe and even the USA--whenever that goes back to being chill. Please note that the lineup for this show may change due to unforeseen circumstances, however we always promise high-quality sexy comedy. Ticket prices Advance purchase: €17 (limited quantity discount price)-€24 (advance purchase) (plus booking fee) At the door: €30

***(She loves me!)* A Brief History of Quarry Trails** [Quarry Trails Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/quarry-trails/) traces its origins to a vast limestone quarry operated by the Marble Cliff Quarry Company starting in the early 20th century. The site, located along the Scioto River west of downtown, supplied crushed stone for local construction projects and roads throughout central Ohio. Operations peaked mid-century, with massive excavation creating deep pits and steep cliffs that reshaped the landscape. By the 1980s, demand declined, and the southern section of the quarry closed (with the northern section of the quarry remaining in operation to this day by a separate company), leaving behind scarred terrain and abandoned equipment. Environmental concerns arose as the area became a dumping ground and off-road playground for locals. Columbus Metro Parks began eyeing the property in the 1990s for potential reclamation into public green space. In 2015, Metro Parks acquired the initial 180 acres from the quarry's owners, marking a pivotal step toward transformation. Thrive Companies, a local developer, partnered in the deal to build adjacent housing while funding park improvements. Cleanup efforts removed tons of debris, stabilized cliffs, and addressed water quality in the flooded quarries. Planners envisioned a mix of adventure and preservation, incorporating the site's industrial remnants as features. Community input from nearby Grandview Heights and Hilliard residents shaped early designs. The project gained momentum with state and federal grants supporting habitat restoration. The park officially opened its first phase in November 2021, featuring 3.5 miles of trails, a waterfall overlook, and climbing walls on the quarry faces. Visitors quickly embraced the unique terrain, with mountain biking loops and a 25-foot waterfall drawing crowds from across the metro area. Metro Parks added a canoe/kayak launch on the Scioto River, connecting to the city's broader trail network. Dog parks and picnic areas rounded out the amenities, making it a year-round destination. Expansion continued with land acquisitions pushing the total toward 600 acres. By 2023, the park hosted events like guided hikes and birdwatching tours. Ongoing development includes a planned adventure center with zip lines and more extensive single-track trails set for completion in the coming years. Metro Parks collaborates with conservation groups to plant native species and monitor wildlife returning to the reclaimed quarries. The site now serves as an educational hub, with interpretive signs explaining its quarrying past and ecological recovery. Local schools incorporate field trips to study geology and restoration science. Quarry Trails exemplifies Columbus's shift from industrial reuse to innovative urban parks. It stands as the newest addition to the Metro Parks system, complementing favorites like Scioto Audubon and Highbanks. Today, Quarry Trails continues evolving, with future phases adding connections to the Olentangy Trail and more water access points. Annual visitor numbers have surged, boosting nearby businesses in the evolving west side neighborhoods. The park's success has inspired similar reclamation projects elsewhere in the region. It highlights how Columbus balances growth with green space preservation. Residents enjoy a one-of-a-kind spot that honors the area's gritty history while offering modern recreation. Quarry Trails remains a testament to community vision and adaptive reuse in our city. ***(She loves me not.)* A Briefer History of Valentine's Day** The origins of Valentine's Day trace back to ancient Rome and the festival of Lupercalia, celebrated in mid-February to honor fertility and purification rites. During this raucous event, young men drew names of women from a box in a matchmaking lottery, often leading to pairings or marriages. By the late 5th century, Pope Gelasius I officially replaced Lupercalia with St. Valentine's Day on February 14 to Christianize the pagan holiday. Although several early Christian martyrs were named Valentine, the most commonly associated figure is a 3rd-century Roman priest who secretly married couples against Emperor Claudius II's ban on young men marrying, believing single soldiers fought better. Legend claims Valentine was imprisoned and later executed on February 14, around 269–270 AD. The romantic associations with Valentine's Day emerged much later, during the Middle Ages. The pivotal moment came in the late 14th century when Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem "Parlement of Foules" (c. 1381), linked St. Valentine's Day with courtship, writing that birds chose their mates on this date. This literary connection spread rapidly among the English and French nobility, transforming the saint's feast day into a celebration of romantic love. By the 15th century, lovers began exchanging handwritten notes called "valentines," often containing verses or simple declarations of affection. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Valentine's Day became increasingly commercialized, especially in England and later the United States. The introduction of printed valentines in the 1840s, pioneered by Esther Howland in America, turned personal notes into mass-produced cards adorned with lace, ribbons, and Cupid imagery. Factories began producing elaborate cards, and the tradition of giving flowers (especially roses), chocolates, and jewelry took hold during the Victorian era. Today, February 14 is one of the most widely celebrated secular holidays worldwide, generating billions in spending on cards, candy, flowers, and romantic dinners. While still officially the feast day of Saint Valentine in some Christian traditions, the modern version has largely shed its religious roots in favor of universal expressions of love and friendship. From ancient fertility rites to global commercial phenomenon, Valentine's Day has evolved dramatically over two millennia while retaining its core focus on human connection. ***(She loves me!)* Map of the Park** Here is a [Map of Quarry Trails](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Quarry-Trails_JUNE-2025_1980px-Web.jpg). ***(She loves me not.)* Summary** For this hike, we'll do a loop of the park. This will be about four miles. Now, this won't be one of our longer hikes. However, in my experience, Quarry Trails tends to wear people out more quickly than other parks. I suspect this is because most of the trails are either paved or heavily graveled (no surprise at a park which abuts an active stone quarry), with some elevation changes along the way. ***(She loves me!)* Where We'll Meet** Quarry Trails has multiple entrances, but none of them are connected internally within the park. So you must drive to the correct one for this event. Set your GPS to [2319 Quarry Trails Dr, Hilliard, OH 43026](https://www.google.com/maps/place/2319+Quarry+Trails+Dr,+Hilliard,+OH+43026/@39.9998462,-83.0873077,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891dd76f5eedf:0xf1cb9d34c1069580!8m2!3d39.9997868!4d-83.0872621!16s%2Fg%2F11y17k0ms5?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), or use the map pin I've provided here. Do not just type "Quarry Trails" into Google Maps and expect it to take you to the correct place. It probably won't. We will meet in the parking lot of the Lake Area. The best entrance to this parking lot will be your first left off of Quarry Trails Dr after Gunnison Dr (which will be on your right). I recommend taking a few minutes and looking at Maps before you head out to make sure you know where you're going. ***(So walk with me...)* Restrooms and Water Fountains** There are a few port-a-potties sprinkled throughout the park (including two at the parking lot we'll be meeting at), and the Park Office, roughly in the center of the park and which we'll pass twice on this hike, has restrooms and a water fountain. This is the only water fountain, though, at Quarry Trails. ***(At Trails Quarry!*)** **After the Hike** Afterward, we'll head over to [Johnnie's Tavern](https://johnniestavern614.com/) for [drinks](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhAulLarLYZC3hY_vRGwoakV!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSzkwnMN29-lrgzp50Rzeaq5jXCGM1xLS1poH0Mc52-E9NYBvdS99ei7zGmlAYJZyk8OeNW5YvS7agj8M2Bom4ri1m_-NcJiT-LQUDphkS-SB5Vq8JhO-8NSP-_m80HeLz4-pGhjrwhuBKSv%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) and [food](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Johnnie's+Tavern/@39.993202,-83.0903169,3a,75y,90t/data=!3m8!1e2!3m6!1sCIABIhB5lD4Uly_4O9BjNH4r3ywB!2e10!3e12!6shttps:%2F%2Flh3.googleusercontent.com%2Fgps-cs-s%2FAG0ilSy7tQcc7CtCeuUAKwEVJoxtOs8Ycohjy3mGZZOC_kJVdB8wEaGuC4-p5z_jxn2JnpmSEkh_HG7Aok_ZPEgmK57rEBqNIPH8J5tiyAP5vbrRYkUso_fKTkW5vJc47UusNoGiRzs2Vf0m1JcV%3Dw146-h195-k-no!7i4284!8i5712!4m7!3m6!1s0x883891c4d61ba04d:0x5134f225cbf678bf!8m2!3d39.9932439!4d-83.0902078!10e9!16s%2Fg%2F11c1p57s3t?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). Its actual address is [3503 Trabue Rd, Columbus, OH 43204](https://www.google.com/maps/place/3503+Trabue+Rd,+Columbus,+OH+43204/@39.9932491,-83.090227,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x883891c4d6199677:0x1fda03b0add81e7c!8m2!3d39.9932491!4d-83.090227!16s%2Fg%2F11c14yf3m6?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MTExMi4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's only about a five minute drive from where we'll be parked at Quarry Trails. We should be at the tavern by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to meet us for drinks.

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

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.

Our group, KIND MEALS, will be picking up the tab for pizzas, at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT SLICE, on Sunday, February 8th from 12-2pm. We will be trying out MIKEY'S Vegan Fake-ass BBQ Chick'n pizza and Vegan Fake-ass Pepperoni pizza, as well as some other special vegan pizzas that are served there. All the vegan pizzas are covered with Selfish Cow vegan cheese. The pizza is free, drinks on your own. Join us to learn more about **[KIND MEALS](https://kindmealscolumbus.org)** (a 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Cols. Ohio, providing hunger relief services to those in need). All of the food we serve is fresh and vegan! If you love working with community, being of service, looking to hang with some fun like-minded people, and just love to socialize on a Sunday afternoon, join us for some FREE vegan pizzas at MIKEY'S LATE NIGHT on 4th and Main. Mikey said the more the merrier!

We will meet next to the restrooms at the [Big Meadows Picnic Area](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/HBK_Web_1980.png). They're all the way at the back of the park, and they can be found at coordinates [40°09'06.6"N 83°02'30.2"W](https://www.google.com/maps/place/40%C2%B009'06.6%22N+83%C2%B002'30.2%22W/@40.151828,-83.0423587,214m/data=!3m2!1e3!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zNDDCsDA5JzA4LjAiTiA4M8KwMDEnNDUuMSJX!8m2!3d40.1522222!4d-83.0291944!3m3!8m2!3d40.151827!4d-83.041715?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI0MTIwNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) (near the playground and the zip line). We'll hike about 5 miles at [Highbanks Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/highbanks/) on the Dripping Rock and Overlook Trails. Afterward, we'll head over to [Olentangy River Brewing](https://www.olentangybrew.com/) for drinks, coffee, or food (their Sunday [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) is Venezuelan and always gets good reviews). The actual address of the brewery is [303 Green Meadows Dr S, 43035](https://www.google.com/maps/place/303+Green+Meadows+Dr+S,+Lewis+Center,+OH+43035/@40.1551938,-83.0144045,17.25z/data=!4m6!3m5!1s0x8838f395cef06c97:0xe407de61b3e30069!8m2!3d40.1551765!4d-83.0124352!16s%2Fg%2F11c26jc7j9?entry=ttu). If you can't make the hike, we should be there by noon. **How to find our starting point in Big Meadows:** If you are new to Highbanks, the Big Meadows picnic area is 1.5 miles into the park just after you turn into the park off of U.S. Route 23. That is, after you enter the park, drive a mile and a half into the park. You will come to a crosswalk with a yield sign in the middle of it (this is not to be confused with the first such crosswalk you come to just in front of the Nature Center, which you arrive at maybe a quarter of a mile into the park). Just after this second crosswalk, make a left. Then make another almost immediate left into the parking lot on your left. There you will see the jungle gym and the kiddie zip line to your left. I will be just in front of the restrooms just a bit further down from the jungle gym and picnic shelter; the restroom building will also be on your left.

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

Let's check out a Popular Astronomy and Science Based Film at COSI Science Center on their HUGE 360 Degree 4K Spherical Dome Screen Theater, in which is touring the nation and has already sold over 10,000 tickets! COSI is one of the leading Science Centers in America. Alan Watts was one of the Most Influential Amateur Astronomers of the 20th Century and held fascinating views of the Galaxy. Tickets are only $33 plus a small fee and taxes and can be purchased here: [Trust the Universe: Immersive Dome Show](https://www.sphericalpictures.com/tickets) PLEASE purchase tickets for the 8:15 PM Feature on Friday, February 15. There seem to be at least 10 tickets left, possibly more. We should be able to sit together in the same row or at least in the general section. This is an exciting chance to view actual footage of the Solar System on a Large 4k Resolution Screen plus added in Cosmological and Astronomical Related Philosophy! We will plan on meeting at about 7:50 PM by the Atomic Cafe on the first Floor of COSI, where the Movie Theater is located, in order to give us time before the show starts to purchase refreshments. Parking is available at the COSI Garage and in the area on side streets and adjacent garages. We can also walk somewhere in the area and get food afterwards, if anyone wants to do so. Thanks and hope to see you come out!