Social and Cultural Outings

🌸 Bye Bye Winter Meetup 🌸 **Free\! \| 18\+ \| Saturday 7th March \| 19\.30 – 23\.30** Right. That’s it. We’ve had enough of winter. If you’ve survived the dark evenings, sideways rain, and the emotional rollercoaster that is “Is that sun? No, just a reflection,” then congratulations — you’ve earned a proper spring celebration. 🌤️ Join us for **Bye Bye Winter Meetup**, an evening of genuine connections, great chats, a bit of dancing (even if it’s the enthusiastic-but-questionable kind), and excellent company. No awkward networking. No forced icebreakers. Just good vibes and better humans. Note This event is free but donations are welcome at: **[https://revolut.me/manuelo38g](https://revolut.me/manuelo38g)**[ ](https://revolut.me/manuelo38g) AND/OR **[https://revolut.me/michelf9a](https://revolut.me/michelf9a)** **🎧 Resident DJ** POP • HIP HOP • R&B • SUMMER VIBES Expect tunes that make you say, “Ah go on so,” and then suddenly you’re on the dance floor. 💃🕺 **🌼 What to Expect** * Friendly, welcoming crowd * Laughter louder than the DJ at times * Conversations that start with “Where are you from?” and end with “We’re getting cocktails.” 🍸 * A proper spring atmosphere Whether you come solo or with friends, you’ll leave knowing more people than when you arrived. (And possibly with a new favourite song stuck in your head.) **📍 Location** **NYX Hotel Dublin Portobello** Portobello Harbour, D08 E1V7 Dublin Lovely spot. Great vibes. No hiking boots required. 🤝 Organized by **FRIENDS FOREVER** ([meetup.com/friends_forever](http://meetup.com/friends_forever)) **INTERNATIONAL MISHMASH** ([meetup.com/dublin-international-mishmash](http://meetup.com/dublin-international-mishmash)) Two communities. One dance floor. Zero winter blues. *Important Bits* ✔️ 18+ event ✔️ Free entry ✔️ Good humour mandatory ✔️ Book in Meetup required ✔️ Complaining about the weather still allowed (we are in Ireland after all) So dust off the winter cobwebs, bring your best chat, and let’s officially send winter packing. Spring is calling. And we’re answering. 🌷✨

Make New Friends💏! This Event is a large Monthly Social Salsa Dance Party 🎉🎊🎇 for Salsa Dancers and for those New Solo people who want to learn Salsa dancing. This Salsa Dance Party will be held in a large hall. There is Bar facilities, cheaper drinks and toilets are avaliable. Time of Dance Party from about 9.30pm/10pm. till after 1 am. Dress: Neat Dress. (Salsa Dance class lesson from 8.45pm to 9.30pm.) There may also be free Pizza at the end of the party like in previous parties. There are Salsa Social Dance Classes on Thursday evenings for those who like to learn or improve Salsa dancing. The entrance fee for the Salsa Party is 10 euros at the Door, which includes the Salsa class lesson. This is very good value. Place of large Hall is in Dublin 8. There is a large Free Car Parking at the back also. Dublin Bus 2 mins walk. There will be many other solo people attending from all around Ireland beside this meetup who already know this venue. In the past Social Salsa Dance Parties, over 270 people attended. https://youtu.be/DWir_XczIE8?is=YWe0j-H3tECeWaQx https://youtu.be/iyLdoQGBchQ?feature=shared So if you are Solo, like Social Dancing, meeting new people and or like a free lesson to start learning Salsa dancing, RSVP and I will send you the Dance Party Address Details on the day of the event. Many people come solo, so do not worry, come solo or bring your friends with you and enjoy the great Latino music and social Salsa dancing.

🌸 Bye Bye Winter Meetup 🌸 **Free\! \| 18\+ \| Saturday 7th March \| 19\.30 – 23\.30** Right. That’s it. We’ve had enough of winter. If you’ve survived the dark evenings, sideways rain, and the emotional rollercoaster that is “Is that sun? No, just a reflection,” then congratulations — you’ve earned a proper spring celebration. 🌤️ Join us for **Bye Bye Winter Meetup**, an evening of genuine connections, great chats, a bit of dancing (even if it’s the enthusiastic-but-questionable kind), and excellent company. No awkward networking. No forced icebreakers. Just good vibes and better humans. Note This event is free but donations are welcome at: **[https://revolut.me/michelf9a](https://revolut.me/michelf9a)** **🎧 Resident DJ** POP • HIP HOP • R&B • SUMMER VIBES Expect tunes that make you say, “Ah go on so,” and then suddenly you’re on the dance floor. 💃🕺 **🌼 What to Expect** * Friendly, welcoming crowd * Laughter louder than the DJ at times * Conversations that start with “Where are you from?” and end with “We’re getting cocktails.” 🍸 * A proper spring atmosphere Whether you come solo or with friends, you’ll leave knowing more people than when you arrived. (And possibly with a new favourite song stuck in your head.) **📍 Location** **NYX Hotel Dublin Portobello** Portobello Harbour, D08 E1V7 Dublin Lovely spot. Great vibes. No hiking boots required. 🤝 Organized by **FRIENDS FOREVER** ([meetup.com/friends_forever](http://meetup.com/friends_forever)) **INTERNATIONAL MISHMASH** ([meetup.com/dublin-international-mishmash](http://meetup.com/dublin-international-mishmash)) Two communities. One dance floor. Zero winter blues. *Important Bits* ✔️ 18+ event ✔️ Free entry ✔️ Good humour mandatory ✔️ Book in Meetup required ✔️ Complaining about the weather still allowed (we are in Ireland after all) So dust off the winter cobwebs, bring your best chat, and let’s officially send winter packing. Spring is calling. And we’re answering. 🌷✨

Hello all Pool this Saturday - kick off - 7.30PM Beginners and all levels welcome. We play a lot of doubles , so everyone gets a good few games. **The Hideout** (the venue) has a policy , that **EVERYONE** must **pay** **€5 corkage** , to bring in drink , **EVEN IF YOU DO NOT HAVE DRINK.** We have to pay for the tables separately @ **€12 to €15 each,** ( approx) Please can you update your RSVP if you can no longer make this evening.. Ed 086 8335672

***Salsa & Bachata Monthly Party - Noche Salsera Dance Academy*** We are back with our Salsa & Bachata Monthly Party in the Best Dublin City Centre location: *Teachers Club*. We will be playing the Best Salsa & Bachata tunes, from Classic to Modern, for a Unique & Incredible Atmosphere on the Dancefloor. Join us before the Party for 2h workshops – SalsaOn2/Mambo & Bachata, focused on improving your technique, body movement & *Sabor*. ***Date -> Saturday, 7th of March*** ***Address -> Noche Salsera Dance School, 36 Parnell Square W, Rotunda, D01T6V6*** ***Bachata:* 7.30pm – 8.30pm** ***SalsaOn2:* 8.30pm – 9.30pm** ***Party:* 9.30pm – 12.30am** *2 Workshops (Bachata & SalsaOn2)* – *€*20 *1 Workshop (SalsaOn2)* – *€*15 *(Party FREE with Any Workshop)* *Party Only* – *€*10 ***Cash Only!*** [WebSite Party Page](https://www.nochesalsera.com/salsa-and-bachata-monthly-party-in-dublin/) *Noche Salsera – El Paraiso De La Salsa*

Come join me as we visit again the RNLI (Royal National Lifeboat Institution) Lifeboat Station, 2 Queen’s Road, Dún Laoghaire, Saturday the 7th of March. We will meet outside the RNLI Shop for 11.30am Our tour will start at 11.45am. Cost of tour will be €10 per person, which I will collect before the tour. Please have exact amount. Our guides will be Cáit and Colley, RNLI. I will be booking Gourmet Food Parlour restaurant for our cuppa or lunch afterwards, please let me know in Comments if you wish to attend. Final numbers will be given two days in advance of the 7th of March. For 180 years a lifeboat has launched from Dun Laoghaire, today the station operates both an inshore lifeboat and an all-weather lifeboat. During its history, the station has witnessed tragedy with 17 lifeboat crew losing their lives saving others at sea. All crew are volunteers. All members are responsible for their own Health & Safety at meetups. I look forward to seeing you there I look forward to seeing you outside their shop at 11.30am. For anyone who hasn't been, this is a lovely talk and tour.

If you are tired running on your own, new in Ireland or looking to meet like-minded runners, join us at St Ann's Park Run.🏃‍➡️🏃‍♀️‍➡️🏃‍♂️‍➡️ A fun and enjoyable 5 k run/walk/jog surrounded by amazing people. After the park run we will grab a social coffee .☕ Can't wait to connect with you. 🤗

Welcome to a vibrant community created for men and women who are ready to connect, explore, and thrive together as friends! This group is all about bringing solo people together in a fun and welcoming space. Where new friendships are formed and fresh experiences await. **For details on this event and to get your ticket, click on Eventbrite link:** https://www.eventbrite.ie/e/solo-meets-social-make-new-friends-bowling-games-tickets-1983538802955?aff=oddtdtcreator **Important information:** Strict ticket event. Tickets will be scanned at check in. **Do not show up without an Eventbrite ticket.** Please bring ID in case the doorman ask you for proof of age. Minimum age to attend is 23. RSVPs are not a true representation of the people attending. By joining this event, you accept our T&Cs, check them out on our website: Yinyangevents.ie **[Follow us on Insta: Yinyangeventsireland](https://www.instagram.com/yinyangeventsireland/)**

Join us every Sunday and tell a story as a group by playing a beginner-friendly roleplaying game. Every week we have 2-3 different games. All materials provided and rules are explained at the start of This each game, you just need to bring your imagination. *** This week's games: **Scott** running [GOAT CRASHERS](https://gshowitt.itch.io/goat-crashers). ou're a cheeky little goat who just wants to party. Problem is, the only party in town doesn't want goats to attend. But to hell with them; you're going to get inside by any means necessary and have the BEST time. **Eoin** running [Demon Driven to the Maw](https://www.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/372360/demon-driven-to-the-maw), a horror adventure set in 16th century Scotland. A grand ball is in full swing at Firnhirst Castle. A thief is hiding among the revelers, in possession of a tremendously valuable marble. But the thief isn't the only strange guest in attendance, and there are signs of sinister machinations occurring behind the scenes. Will you find the marble and escape with your lives? **Silvia** will run an International Women's Day special (women and NB only) of Get Lich or Try Dying. You have been woken from your not so eternal sleep by a disturbance in the world. A manosphere event is taking place at your ancestral family home. This is unacceptable. This game has 1 space left, let me know if you want to join. First come, first served etc. \*\*\* Feel free to ask the organisers any questions you have (here or on our [Discord server](https://tinyurl.com/indie-rpgs-dublin)).

***Join us on a history-focused walking tour of Dun Laoghaire and Sandycove!*** Hello! My name is Marina Boyle and I'm a local tour guide excited to share Dublin with you. This is a tour for locals and those new to the area to learn about beautiful Dun Laoghaire and make friends at the same time! We'll start at Dun Laoghaire DART station and visit landmarks like the East Pier, Dun Laoghaire Baths, the People's Park, the Forty Foot, and the James Joyce Tower and Museum. All the way along I'll be explaining the local history, with time for guests to chat to one another too. Come and see what makes the coast of Dublin so captivating! This event will start at 12 noon sharp and last approximately 2 hours. This is a tip based tour, meaning that you make a contribution depending on what you feel the tour was worth at the end. There is no minimum amount and even €5 is hugely appreciated. The tour will include entry into the James Joyce Museum, including access to the roof for 360 degree views of Dublin. I am looking forward to meeting you :)

Let’s meet on Sunday for a high tide dip with sunshine forecast. If free after we can head to CduJ to warm up with a ☕️☕️ and chat. * Cold water swimming - Water is Cold at this time - DO NOT STAY IN TOO LONG * Bring a hot drink and warm clothes to change into as the cold water effect will hit you AFTER you get out * We as a group are not life guards. Everyone is responsible for their own safety. * If your plans change please change your rsvp. A 'no show' is not acceptable.

*Looking for a fun and challenging outdoor activity in the Irish mountains and hills?* Participants will be taught by a professional mountaineering Ireland course director the basics of map reading skills, how to set the map, navigation tips and how to keep safe while hiking in the Irish mountains in poor visibility during day or night time. **What gear do I need:** * Wear comfortable clothing like – leggings, tracksuit bottoms, breathable T-Shirt and fleece & an extra warm layer. * Be ready for the rain and pack a rain jacket and rain trousers. * A hat and gloves to keep you safe from the wind even in Summer. * Wear good sturdy walking shoes or hillwalking boots with woolly or synthetic socks. * Have a backpack with water, sandwiches and snacks, coffee, tea or else. * Don’t forget to bring first aid kit with plaster and bandages, personal medicine, inhaler, EpiPen etc. Please note: 48 hours cancellation notice must be given, otherwise Carlow Sports Partnership cannot guarantee a refund on ticket purchases. ***Some level of fitness is essential.*** Hiking grades: Easy – Moderate Please note this is a female only event, suitable for women and girls aged 16+. For more information please contact **aeaccom@gmail.com** or **CARLOW Active** or go to; **www.mountainadventures74.com**

SATURDAY MEET UP Let's mingle with anybody and everybody who's simply interested in Korean or Irish culture. This is a group for anyone looking to get out and about, meet new people, socialise and enjoy a night out. It will be for all to have loads of craic. Looking forward to seeing old and new faces. At the time of writing, **we are in the section we used to have - the glass section at the side of the building. If you can't find us, then please ask at the bar.** Our aim is to create a friendly, sociable and safe way for people to meet and discuss Korean and Irish culture. If you been made to feel uncomfortable or have seen inappropriate behaviour at a meet up then please contact one of our organisers in confidence. As the Covid is still around please only come if you're feeling well. \*\*\* PLEASE RSVP \*\*\* Photo Credit: Jay Park It is not necessary to buy food, but if you don't please buy at least one drink as restaurants have had a hard time during the pandemic. \*\*\* This meetup is for adults only (18+) except where accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (proof of status e.g. court documents may be requested) \*\*\* How to get to the meet up: *LUAS* \- the Drunken Fish is right next to the Mayor Square \- NCI Luas stop on the red line *DART/Irish Rail* \- Dublin Connolly is probably the easiest station for most people\, but the Docklands station is also close *PARKING* \- the carpark for the National College of Ireland \(NCI\) is probably the most convenient and only charges 5 euro for the whole evening after 5\.30pm Meetup details below: New faces welcome!! Bring your 친구 too. [Place] Drunken Fish Restaurant/Bar, The Excise Building, Mayor Street Lower, IFSC, Dublin 1 [Hosts] Caoimhe, Jay, Eileen, Saksham and Stephen Please contact us using the below details if you have any questions or trouble finding us. [Organiser contact] Bobbie: Instagram: GoodMoodFoodInsta Tim: (WhatsApp: 085 718 5658) \*RSVP ESSENTIAL!!!! PLEASE DO RSVP!!!! \*Bring your ID if you're lucky enough to look under 25! ;) \*There's no admission fee for our meetup however, you'll be kindly asked to purchase at least 1 drink after your arrival. As you could probably imagine, it's not so easy to book such a big place on a Friday evening in Dublin city centre and your cooperation in this will greatly help us to secure the place for our future gatherings. \*Take good care of your own belongings and do not consume more alcohol than you can handle, Meetup organisers nor venue management do not hold any responsibilities on lost items before/during or after the meetup. Hope to see you all there! :)

As you walk in the hotel, turn right from the bar, and you’ll find another bar where drinks are served.
We’re right behind. This meetup is free to attend. Just grab and pay for your own drink when you order to support the bar and keep things cool with the venue.

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!

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.

**💞 Speed Dating for First Timers – Meet Like-Minded Local Singles from Home!** **⚠️ HEADS UP: Clicking RSVP Is NOT Enough!** You **must** register through one of the links below and complete the short personality quiz to secure your spot. Select your age range and register now – **spots are limited and go fast!** **🎟️ Age Group Registration Links (Click Yours Now):** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=18-32&face_v=5.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=30-46&face_v=5.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=40-58&face_v=5.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cincinnati&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=55+&face_v=5.0) --- 🏠 **Prefer to meet people from home first?** Same here! Online speed dating is perfect for first-timers. Meet like-minded local singles from the comfort of your own home – no pressure, no crowded venues, just genuine connections in a safe, welcoming environment. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - People who want to meet local Cincinnati singles without leaving home - People seeking meaningful connections in a relaxed setting - Curious first-timers wanting to explore speed dating - Shy or reserved singles who open up better in private chats - Singles anxious about meeting in person who prefer the comfort of home **Event Details** - **Format:** Virtual via Zoom – structured rounds in a warm, friendly setting - **Location:** From the comfort of your own home – no need to go anywhere! - **Host:** Seasoned speed dating host with a talent for putting first-timers at ease - **Vibe:** Engaging, real-time chats with Cincinnati singles – no scripts, just vibes - **Dress code:** Smart casual – look good, feel good! - **Rounds:** Multiple short rounds so you meet plenty of people - **Support:** Our host is available before, during, and after the event **How It Works** 1. **Register for Your Age Group** – Choose the session that matches your age range above and complete registration. 2. **Take the Quick Compatibility Quiz** – Help us pair you with like-minded Cincinnati first-timers. 3. **Log In & Relax** – Join the Zoom call and let the fun begin. Your host handles the logistics! 4. **Speed Dating Rounds** – Enjoy guided, structured conversations with friendly Cincinnati singles. 5. **Get Your Matches** – After the event, mutual matches are revealed. Start a real connection! ⭐ *"The personality quiz really works. My matches were spot on!"* – Happy first-timer --- ✨ Great connections start with a single conversation. Yours could start tonight! 💝 ✨

**🌹 Virtual Speed Dating – Ideal for First Timers – Meet Cleveland Singles Tonight!** **🔴 MUST READ: RSVP Alone Won't Get You In!** To attend, you must: (1) Click your age group link below, (2) Complete registration, and (3) Finish the personality quiz. **Limited spots available** – register now before they're gone! **📌 Register for Your Age Group Here:** - **Ages 18-32** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=18-32&face_v=5.0) - **Ages 30-46** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=30-46&face_v=5.0) - **Ages 40-58** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=40-58&face_v=5.0) - **Ages 55+** → [REGISTER HERE](https://tempodating.com/product?productId=390.0&productType=onlineSpeedDating&city=Cleveland&groupurlname=kinetic-city-love-rhythm&ar=55+&face_v=5.0) --- 😊 **Anxious about meeting in person?** We get it! Forget everything you think you know about speed dating. Our online events are relaxed, guided, and perfect for anyone who's never done this before. Just log in from home and meet amazing Cleveland singles. 🎯 **Perfect for:** - Singles who appreciate a guided, hosted dating experience - Singles who prefer a safe, comfortable online environment - Anyone anxious about crowded bars or in-person meetups ⭐ *"The personality quiz really works. My matches were spot on!"* – Happy first-timer **How It Works** 1. **Select Your Age Range** – Click the link for your age group and sign up. 2. **Answer a Few Fun Questions** – Our quiz helps match you with compatible Cleveland singles. 3. **Go Live** – Enter the Zoom room, meet your host, and get ready for a great night. 4. **Meet Your Matches** – Rotate through fun one-on-one rounds with Cleveland singles who share your vibe. 5. **Connect After the Event** – Mutual matches are shared so you can continue the conversation. **Event Details** - **Format:** Zoom video event – interactive, personal, and welcoming - **Location:** Wherever you're most relaxed – that's your venue tonight - **Host:** Seasoned speed dating host with a talent for putting first-timers at ease - **Vibe:** A feel-good evening of laughter and connection with Cleveland first-timers 💡 **Advice:** Treat each round like chatting with a friend. Keep it light, keep it real! **Frequently Asked Questions** **What happens after the event?** We reveal mutual matches after the event. If you both liked each other, we help you connect! **What if my internet drops?** No worries – our host will help you reconnect. Technical hiccups happen and we're prepared for them! **Is my information private?** Absolutely. Your contact details are never shared without mutual consent. **What if I don't match with anyone?** That's okay! Many people attend multiple events before finding their match. Each event is a new opportunity. --- ✨ Stop waiting for the perfect moment. This is it. Meet Cleveland singles tonight! 🥰 ✨

**History** [Slate Run Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/slate-run/), located south of Canal Winchester in Pickaway County, has roots tracing back to the early planning efforts of the Columbus and Franklin County Metropolitan Park District. In 1963, Metro Parks officials identified the land along Slate Run as having strong potential for a large metropolitan park due to its expansive acreage, diverse habitats, and natural features like the stream that gave the area its name. The largest stream in the vicinity, Slate Run, flows south to northwest through a ridge, providing a logical basis for the park's designation. Between 1964 and 1968, Metro Parks acquired approximately 1,662 acres through multiple parcels, including a key 212-acre farmstead that had been continuously operated since 1805. This acquisition phase positioned Slate Run as a future major addition to the system, following the openings of other parks like Sharon Woods in 1968 and Highbanks in 1973. The park officially opened to the public in 1981, marking it as the sixth Metro Park in the district and, at the time, the largest with its substantial land holdings. From the outset, Metro Parks envisioned incorporating a living historical farm to educate visitors about 19th-century Ohio agriculture. The focal 212-acre parcel, purchased from the White family heirs in 1964, included historic structures that made it ideal for this purpose. The park's development preserved natural areas such as grasslands, wetlands, meadows, and forests while integrating interpretive elements. Upon opening, Slate Run quickly became a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Central to the park's identity is the Slate Run Living Historical Farm, which interprets life on a typical Ohio farm in the 1880s. The gothic revival farmhouse on the site was constructed in 1856 by owner Isaac Fridley and later restored by Metro Parks for historical accuracy. Visitors can explore interiors like the living room, parlor, and kitchen, where interpreters demonstrate period activities. The multi-bay barn, built in 1881 by Samuel Oman (the fourth owner), was meticulously restored with help from Amish carpenters. Heirloom animals such as Percheron horses, pigs, geese, and turkeys inhabit the farm, enhancing the immersive experience. The historical farmstead reflects a long lineage of ownership and agricultural use dating back to the early 19th century. Continuous farming on the land since 1805 made the site authentic for recreating late-19th-century practices, including grain harvesting and animal husbandry. Metro Parks focused on authenticity by restoring original buildings and introducing period-appropriate methods, such as horse-powered threshing machines from the late 1880s. The farm operates with volunteers and staff in period attire to portray daily rural life. This educational component has drawn school groups and families for decades. Today, Slate Run Metro Park spans about 1,705 acres and attracts roughly 250,000 visitors annually for its blend of natural preservation and historical interpretation. The park maintains diverse habitats supporting wildlife like nesting sandhill cranes and reintroduced northern bobwhite quail. Trails and open spaces offer opportunities for hiking and observation amid the preserved landscapes. The Living Historical Farm remains a crown jewel, continuing to teach about Ohio's agricultural heritage. Ongoing programs and restorations ensure the site's relevance for future generations. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Slate Run](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/SLR-parkmap@2x.gif). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Five Oaks, Sugar Maple, Covered Bridge, Shagbark, and Lake Trails. This will be around 4.5 to 5 miles. While Slate Run is moderately strenuous in a few places, it's generally a good place to hike and doesn't seem to wear people out. Some spots on the hike are unshaded, though, so be prepared for the possibility of some sun. I find Slate Run to be very underappreciated for the quality of its hiking. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet at the [Shady Grove Picnic Area](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B045'30.1%22N+82%C2%B050'13.2%22W/@39.758347,-82.83701,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m4!3m3!8m2!3d39.758347!4d-82.83701?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). You can use the map pin I've provided here; it's accurate. There's a latrine at Shady Grove, but there is no running water (no water fountains). We will pass a water fountain when we get to the Buzzard's Roost Picnic Area, although I can't guarantee this fountain won't be off for the winter. I'd recommend bringing some water just in case, at least for after the hike. I'd also recommend [hiking shoes](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D972KN3W) for this park. **After the Hike** Once we're finished at Slate Run, we'll head over to [Loose Rail Brewing](https://looserailbrewing.com/) for [drinks](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-drink-menu) and [food](https://looserailbrewing.com/canal-winchester-canal-winchester-loose-rail-brewing-food-menu). The brewery's actual address is [37 W Waterloo St, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+W+Waterloo+St,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/@39.8432511,-82.8071032,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88387be3ac496d83:0x23e8ee9d9391dd6b!8m2!3d39.8432511!4d-82.8071032!16s%2Fg%2F11cp8n8x1j?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDIxMS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D), and it's about 10-12 minutes from Slate Run. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.

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.

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