Social and Cultural Outings

🎇 Rožnik Bonfire Party with Ljubljana International 🎇 📅 Date: Thursday, April 30th ⏰ 19:00 @ Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH → 22:00 walk to Rožnik 📍 Start: Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center 📍 Destination: By the church at Rožnik Hill (with a HUGE bonfire & concert!) 🌐 WhatsApp Group: Join here to connect, coordinate, and find us easily! https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK 🔥 What’s Happening: Traditional Slovene Kresovanje Bonfire at Rožnik Hill FREE Concert near the church after the bonfire lights up Beers & Food available at the top (bring some € for drinks/food) 500+ People gather here every year — an unforgettable experience! This is THE most authentic way to celebrate April 30th like a true local. Big fire, good people, great vibes. 🌟 🍻 THE PLAN 19:00 — Meet @ LOO-BLAH-NAH • drinks, music, social warm-up • meet your crew for the night • international + local crowd 👉 3 + 1 GRATIS on Nord Hard Seltzer 22:00 — We head to Rožnik together We walk as a group from the city towards the hill 👥 Who Should Come? New people in Ljubljana Slovenians & internationals Solo adventurers or full squads Anyone who loves traditions, fire, music, and unforgettable nights! 👉 Come solo or with friends — you'll meet amazing people either way. 📌 Important Notes: If you’re late, message in the WhatsApp group — we'll tell you where we are! https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK 📲 Stay Connected: ✅ Join the WhatsApp Group for Updates, Coordination & New Friends: 👉 WhatsApp Group Link: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK ✅ Follow Ljubljana International for more epic events! 👉 https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational

🔥🎇 Nord Afterwork Thursdays: Rožnik Bonfire Night (Kresovanje) 📅 Thursday, 30 April ⏰ 19:00 @ Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH → 22:00 walk to Rožnik 📍 Start: Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center 📍 Destination: Rožnik Hill (by the church) Ljubljana — this is one of those nights you don’t miss. As part of Nord Afterwork Thursdays, we’re combining our international meetup with one of Slovenia’s most iconic traditions: 👉 Kresovanje at Rožnik Big fire. Free concert. 500+ people. Unreal atmosphere. 🍻 THE PLAN 19:00 — Meet @ LOO-BLAH-NAH • drinks, music, social warm-up • meet your crew for the night • international + local crowd 👉 3 + 1 GRATIS on Nord Hard Seltzer 22:00 — We head to Rožnik together We walk as a group from the city towards the hill 🔥 AT ROŽNIK • massive traditional bonfire • free concert near the church • hundreds of people • food & drinks available at the top This is the most authentic way to experience April 30th in Slovenia. 🌍 WHO SHOULD COME • internationals & locals • Erasmus, expats, travelers • anyone new in Ljubljana • anyone who wants a memorable night 👉 Come solo — you won’t stay solo. 🌍 THE LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY Powered by Ljubljana International — 1000+ members, weekly events, and one of the most social communities in the city. 👉 Meet people before, during, and after the event. 📲 JOIN THE GROUP (VERY IMPORTANT) We coordinate everything here: 👉 https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK 📍 EVENT FLOW 📅 Thursday, 30 April 🕖 19:00 — LOO-BLAH-NAH Afterwork 🚶 22:00 — Group walk to Rožnik 🔥 Late — Bonfire + concert + vibes ✨ HOSTED BY Nord Hard Seltzer × Ljubljana International × Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH 🍑 QUIT YOUR JOB. DRINK A NORD. FOLLOW THE FIRE.

🍑 NORD AFTERWORK THURSDAYS — 3+1 GRATIS Every Thursday in April • From 7PM 📍 Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center, Ljubljana Ljubljana, it's time to upgrade your Thursdays. Forget boring afterwork drinks — we're turning Thursdays into a Nord-powered social ritual. Together with Nord Hard Seltzer, Ljubljana International, and Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH, we’re launching a new weekly hangout where locals, expats, creatives, and party people meet to relax, connect, and start the weekend early. 🍹 3+1 GRATIS on all Nord Hard Seltzers all night Nord is Slovenia’s first hard seltzer — a fresh alternative to beer and cocktails: • light • refreshing • low calories • full of flavor Choose your favorite: 🍑 Cheeky Peach 🥭 Mango Tangerine 🫐 Bluberry Mint 🍋 Lemon Elderberry 🍊 Blood Orange Ginger 🌿 Lemongrass Green Tea 🍋 Matter Lemon 🥭 Mrfy Guava Fresh 🎶 What to expect • international crowd • indie / retro party vibes • new people & spontaneous conversations • music, laughter and good energy • creative and festival-style atmosphere Basically: the best way to spend your Thursday in Ljubljana. 🔥 Why come? Because Thursday is the new Friday. Because Nord is the perfect drink for social nights. Because the best nights start unplanned with good people. And because 3+1 Nord tastes better with friends. 📅 Every Thursday in April 🕖 From 19:00 📍 Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center Bring your friends, meet new people, and start your weekend early. QUIT YOUR JOB. DRINK A NORD. See you Thursday. 🌎 Join the Community Meet people before and after events in our Ljubljana International community: 👉 WhatsApp group https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK 👉 Events & socials https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational

Have you ever had a great idea but failed to share it with others due to stage fright? Are you ready to conquer your fear of public speaking? Join us at Toastmasters Klub Ljubljana for an interactive workshop designed to help you build confidence and develop effective public speaking skills. Our experienced members will guide you through exercises to improve your communication skills, critical thinking, and impromptu speaking abilities. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced speaker looking to enhance your leadership and presentation skills, this workshop is perfect for you. Don't miss this opportunity to network with like-minded individuals, practice your English as a second language, and unleash your creativity in a supportive and encouraging environment. Learn the art of DIY presentations and gain valuable insights on how to excel in social networking settings. Join us and take the first step towards becoming a confident and successful communicator. See you there! MEETING STRUCTURE: 1st PART - prepared speeches 2nd PART - short impromptu speech competition (you can vote for the best speaker, and you can also participate) 3rd PART - evaluation of speeches and general feedback Toastmasters is an incredibly safe environment. We guide you every step of the way. Great communication skills make the leaders of tomorrow! https://toastmasters.si info@toastmasters.si WE MEET EVERY THURSDAY at Gozdarski inštitut Slovenije AT 18.45 (every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month meetings are in English, the rest in Slovenian.) Gozdarski inštitut Slovenije Večna pot 2 1000 Ljubljana OUR MEETUP IS MOSTLY USED BY GUESTS. MORE PEOPLE ATTEND. Ti je že kdaj tako zagodla trema, da je tvoja super ideja ostala na papirju, neizrečena? Če želiš več samozavesti pri javnem nastopanju, te toplo vabimo na naše Toastmasters srečanje. Brez skrbi, ne bo ti treba na oder, celo srečanje in vse govorce lahko opazuješ kot gost oz. gostja. Vse je prilagojeno tvojemu tempu. POTEK SREČANJA: 1. DEL - vnaprej pripravljeni govori 2. DEL - kratki improvizirani govori (lahko glasuješ za najboljši govor, lahko pa tudi sodeluješ) 3. DEL - evalvacija govorov in splošne povratne informacije Toastmasters je izjemno varno okolje. Vodimo te na vsakem koraku in skozi odlične komunikacijske spretnosti gradimo voditelje prihodnosti. https://toastmasters.si info@toastmasters.si VABLJEN/A VSAK ČETRTEK v Gozdarski inštitut Slovenije ob 18:45.Vsako 1. in 3. srečanje v mesecu poteka v angleščini, ostala srečanja pa v slovenščini. Gozdarski inštitut Slovenije Večna pot 2 1000 Ljubljana NAŠ MEETUP JE NAMENJEN GOSTOM. NA SREČANJA PRIDE VEČ LJUDI.

Toplo vabljeni k obisku enega starejših igralnih klubov pri nas, kjer lahko preizkusite igre iz naše obsežne kolekcije in jih igrate s prekaljenimi mački ali tistimi bolj lenobnimi. Skozi leta so se nabrale dobre igre in dobra družba, ki vedno rada sprejme nove igralce in radovedneže. Klub Igralcev Namiznih Družabnih iger Slovenije. https://www.facebook.com/klubKINDsi https://twitter.com/KlubKINDsi

Dear all, we’re back with the PyData meetups, focused as always on sharing best practice, methodologies, analysis, machine learning systems, .., with the open-source projects of the [NumFOCUS](https://numfocus.org/sponsored-projects) program — but not only! We’ll meet **#InPresence on Thursday, April 30 at 7:00 PM**. We’ll be hosted by [Anda Venice Hostel](https://www.andavenice.com/) in the Medusa Room and, for those who cannot join us, it will also be on YouTube in **#streaming**. 👥 We’ll have two interesting sessions in English 🇬🇧: 🗣 [Tomas Scagliarini](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomscag/) studies the **#analysis** of Earth’s tipping elements that is crucial for understanding the **#stability** of the **#ClimateSystem**. He will discuss how the interdependencies among tipping elements evolve over time under different anthropogenic forcing. 🗣 [Babatunde Monye](https://www.linkedin.com/in/babatundemonye/) will present a **#MultiTimeframe** algorithmic trading **#signal** system built on probabilistic confidence **#model**, combining momentum, adaptive smoothing, and convergence & divergence indicators to generate structured buy/sell signals across multiple asset pairs. And afterwards\, for those who want\, we’ll stay there for \( 🍸 \| 🍺 \) & \( 🍕 \| 🍔 \) and **#networking** until late ‼️ 📽 And if you’d like to share ideas, projects, topics, or propose yourself as the next speaker, here’s the usual [Google form](https://forms.gle/rVMWxFnodHaNb9ab9) or [Sessionize](https://sessionize.com/pydata-venice-2025-12-18) !

🏓🍺 WORLD BEER PONG DAY @ LOO-BLAH-NAH 📅 Saturday, 2 May ⏰ From 20:00 📍 Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center Ljubljana — this is not just another Saturday. 👉 This is World Beer Pong Day. And we’re celebrating it properly. 🏓 THE CONCEPT One night. One table. 👉 Teams, competition, and pure chaos. We’re turning Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH into a full beer pong arena. 🔥 WHAT TO EXPECT • beer pong tournament (teams of 2) • open tables for casual play • fast games, fast drinks, fast connections • international crowd • high-energy Saturday atmosphere 👉 whether you’re here to win or just have fun — you’re in the right place 🎯 TOURNAMENT 👉 limited team spots • teams of 2 • quick rounds • simple bracket 👉 show up + compete + win 🍺 OPEN PLAY Not playing tournament? 👉 no problem • jump into games • meet new people • rotate teams 🎉 AFTER THE GAMES When the tournament ends… 👉 the night continues • music • social chaos • new connections Because nights like this don’t end early. 🌍 WHO SHOULD COME • students • internationals • groups of friends • competitive people • anyone who wants a fun Saturday 🌎 HOSTED BY Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH × Ljubljana International 📲 Join the community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK 👉 https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational 🏓 Grab your teammate. 🍺 Step up to the table. 🔥 Let’s see what you’ve got.

🌍 Ljubljana’s Biggest International Friday Afterwork Meetup! 🎉 Every Friday @ 18:00 (6 PM) At Pizzeria DOBRA VILA (Dunajska 5) Looking to meet new internationals, young professionals, Erasmus students, digital nomads, travelers, and locals every week? Welcome to Ljubljana’s Friday International Social — the weekly community night hosted by Ljubljana International, Expat Meetups by Mehtab, and Pizzeria Dobra Vila. This is your core weekly ritual, your Friday reset, and the easiest way to meet 30-50+ people in Ljubljana — every single week. 🌍 What This Event Is A weekly Friday tradition where internationals and locals come together to: Meet new friends Build social circles Connect with people from 30+ countries Start their weekend with good vibes Have meaningful conversations Enjoy a warm, friendly, open community No awkwardness. No pressure. No cliques. Just good people, good energy, and a guaranteed crowd. 🔥 Why People Love It You can come solo — you’ll meet people instantly Super friendly vibe Easy conversations Everyone is open to meeting new people Perfect for newcomers in Ljubljana A mix of locals, students, nomads, workers & travelers The event grows every week Your Friday nights become bigger, better, and more social. 📍 Event Details 📅 Every Friday ⏰ 8:00 PM 📍 Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center (City Center) 👥 40+ attendees — growing toward 100 by summer 💬 Who Should Come? New in Ljubljana Want to grow your social circle Looking for international-friendly environments Want to meet people without awkwardness Just want a fun, social Friday night If you’re international — or simply international-minded — this is the place to be. ✨ Hosted by Ljubljana International × Expat Meetups by Mehtab × Pizzeria Dobra Vila Three communities → One massive weekly meetup. 🔗 Stay Connected Join the WhatsApp community with 1000+ members to meet people before & after events: https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK Explore our upcoming events and follow us on our social media to stay up to date: https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational

🎉🌍 LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL PRE-PARTY SATURDAYS @ LOO-BLAH-NAH 📅 Every Saturday ⏰ 20:00 – 23:00 📍 Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center Ljubljana — before the party, we meet here. Welcome to Ljubljana International Pre-Party Saturdays, the easiest way to start your night with the right people, the right energy, and the right vibe. Whether you're heading to Cvetličarna, Cirkus, Nebo, Zorica — or just figuring it out as you go — this is where the night begins. 🍻 WHAT THIS IS A social, high-energy pre-party where: • internationals, locals, Erasmus & travelers meet • conversations start instantly • drinks flow • groups form naturally Come solo or with friends — you won’t stay alone for long. 🔥 WHY START HERE • meet your crew before going out • avoid awkward solo pre-drinks • start the night in a social, open environment • connect with people heading to the same places The best nights aren’t planned — they start here. 🍺 EXPECT • a lively international crowd • music to set the mood • drinks & pre-party offers • spontaneous plans for the rest of the night 🚀 HOW IT WORKS Show up from 20:00 Grab a drink Meet people Decide where the night goes Around 22:30–23:00, we head out — together or in groups — to the hottest spots in the city. 🌍 THE LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY This event is powered by Ljubljana International — the biggest international community in Ljubljana, with 1000+ members and growing every week. What makes it different: • an active WhatsApp group where people connect daily • real friendships — not just one-time events • a mix of expats, Erasmus students, digital nomads, and locals • people who are open, social, and actually want to meet others 👉 You don’t just come to an event — you join a community. Before the event: • meet people in the WhatsApp group After the event: • continue the night together • join other events • build your social circle in Ljubljana 🌍 WHO SHOULD COME • anyone going out on Saturday • people new to Ljubljana • anyone looking to meet others before the party • anyone who wants a better start to their night ✨ HOSTED BY Ljubljana International × Pub LOO-BLAH-NAH Center 🌎 JOIN THE COMMUNITY 👉 https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK 👉 https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational 🎉 Don’t pre-party alone. Start your night here — with the right people.

🏖️ Lakeside Picnic Party @ Podpeško Lake 🌞 Ljubljana International Group Escape 📅 Sunday, May 3rd 🕐 11:00–18:00 🎟️ Free entry \| Open to everyone 🌿 The Plan We’re escaping the city for a relaxed, social Sunday by the lake — swimming, games, music, sunshine, and good people. This isn’t just a picnic. It’s a shared experience from the moment we leave Ljubljana together. 🤝 GROUP MEETUP & GETTING THERE (important!) To make this more fun and social, we’re going as a group: 🕚 11:00 — Meet at Ljubljana Main Train Station (Glavna železniška postaja) From there, we split: 🚗 Carpool Crew Join your pre-arranged rides Coordinate in the WhatsApp group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LxPd1Irj1nkFZNYGu0jDRl 🚌 Bus Crew Walk together to Bavarski dvor Take bus 19B → Podpeško Jezero \~35 min ride Easy, social, and fun 👉 Don’t want to come with the group? No problem — you can join us directly at the lake anytime from 12:00 onward 📍 Location West side of Podpeško Jezero (just past the restaurant) 📍 Coordinates: 45.968336, 14.431423 If you can’t find us — message in the group chat and we’ll guide you. Group Chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LxPd1Irj1nkFZNYGu0jDRl 🌟 What to Expect 🏐 Volleyball, badminton, frisbee, bocce & games 🌊 Swimming & chill lake vibes 🎲 Board & card games (bring your favorites!) 🎸 Music jam session + shared playlist (bring instruments/speakers) 🍕 Pizza from the lakeside restaurant 🧺 BYO drinks & snacks (or grab something at the bar) 🧘 Who This Is For Locals, internationals, Erasmus, travelers Solo joiners & groups (very easy to meet people) Social, open-minded, fun energy people 👉 If you want a low-pressure way to meet new people in nature — this is it 💬 COMMUNITY CHAT (join before!) This is where: carpools get organized people meet before the event live updates happen 👉 Join here: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LxPd1Irj1nkFZNYGu0jDRl 🛑 Weather Plan If it rains, we’ll update everything in: WhatsApp group Event page 🐶 Extras Dogs welcome 🐕 Restrooms available Stay as long as you want (we’ll be there \~until 18:00) 🔥 Why You Should Come We’ve hosted 50+ events with 1,000+ people — and these lake days always turn into the best memories. 👉 Come for the lake 👉 Stay for the people 📲 Stay Connected Follow us for more: https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational

🌍 Ljubljana International Friday After Party @ Voyager 🍺 Every Friday from 23:00 → late (1AM) 30+ internationals. One spot. Best Friday night energy in Ljubljana. 🔥 What to expect The official afterparty of Ljubljana’s biggest international meetup. Meet new people (30+ attendees) Stronger vibe, better connections Music, drinks, and real energy The place where the night actually happens 🍺 Why Voyager? Craft beer. Proper selection. No basic drinks. At Voyager Craft Beer Bar you get: A wide range of local & international craft beers A more unique, premium bar experience The perfect setting to continue the night with your new crew 💬 Who comes? Internationals Erasmus students Digital nomads Young professionals Locals who want something more social Everyone is open. Everyone is here to connect. 📍 Event details 📅 Every Friday ⏰ From 23:00 until 01:00 📍 Voyager Craft Beer Bar 👥 30+ attendees (growing every week) 🌐 Stay connected Join the WhatsApp community (1000+ members): https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK Explore more events: https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational

🌍🍕 Ljubljana International Friday Afterwork Meetup @ Dobra Vila 📅 Every Friday ⏰ From 18:00 (6 PM) 📍 Pizzeria Dobra Vila (Dunajska 5) Ljubljana — this is your Friday reset. After a long week, there’s one place where locals, internationals, Erasmus students, and young professionals come together to unwind, connect, and start the weekend right. Welcome to the Ljubljana International Friday Afterwork Meetup. 🌍 WHAT THIS IS A weekly afterwork gathering designed for: • meeting new people naturally • building real friendships • expanding your social circle • enjoying great food & drinks • starting your Friday evening in a relaxed, social way No pressure. No awkwardness. Just a welcoming, open environment where conversations flow easily. 🍕 THE VIBE Think: • pizza on the table • drinks in hand • people arriving after work • small groups forming and mixing • relaxed energy that builds into the night This is not a loud party. It’s where the night begins. 🔥 WHY PEOPLE COME • you can come solo and instantly meet people • a friendly, international crowd every week • perfect for newcomers in Ljubljana • a mix of locals, expats, Erasmus & travelers • an easy, consistent way to grow your network By the time you leave — you’ll know new people. 🚀 HOW IT WORKS Show up from 18:00 Grab a drink or food Join a table or conversation Let the evening unfold naturally Stay for an hour — or stay for the whole night. 🌍 THE LJUBLJANA INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY This event is part of Ljubljana International — the largest international community in Ljubljana, with 1000+ members and growing every week. What makes it special: • an active WhatsApp group where people connect daily • a community that actually meets — not just online • people who are open, social, and looking to connect • events happening every week across the city 👉 You don’t just attend — you become part of it. 📍 EVENT DETAILS 📅 Every Friday ⏰ From 18:00 📍 Pizzeria Dobra Vila 👥 30–50+ people every week 💬 WHO SHOULD COME • new in Ljubljana • looking to meet people without awkwardness • want a relaxed, social afterwork vibe • enjoy good food, drinks, and conversations If you’re international — or simply open-minded — you’ll fit right in. ✨ HOSTED BY Ljubljana International × Expat Meetups by Mehtab × Pizzeria Dobra Vila 🌎 JOIN THE COMMUNITY 👉 https://chat.whatsapp.com/KB3YaX1GuqY4eYcYUh3TpK 👉 https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational 🍕 Start your Friday with good people. Stay for the vibe. See where the night takes you.

🏖️ Lakeside Picnic Party @ Podpeško Jezero 🌞 📅 Sunday\, May 3rd \| 🕐 12:00–18:00 \| 🎯 Open to everyone\! Looking for the perfect Sunday escape? Join us for a chill and fun-packed afternoon by the lake just 20 minutes from Ljubljana — music, swimming, games, sunshine, new friends, and unforgettable vibes. 🌟 What to Expect: 🏐 Volleyball, water sports, badminton, frisbee, bocce & more 🎲 Board & card games (bring your favorites!) 🎸 Live music jam & chill playlist — bring instruments or a speaker! 🍕 Pizza orders from the lakeside restaurant 🧺 BYO drinks & snacks (or grab extras at the bar) 🚀 Getting There: 🚌 Direct bus 19B from Ljubljana Center 🚗 Free parking around the lake 👥 Join the WhatsApp group chat where you can meet people & arrange rides: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LxPd1Irj1nkFZNYGu0jDRl 📍 Where? West side of the lake, just past the restaurant 📍Coordinates: 45.968336, 14.431423 If you have trouble finding us, write us on any social media or in the group chat WhatsApp Group chat: https://chat.whatsapp.com/LxPd1Irj1nkFZNYGu0jDRl Social media: https://linktr.ee/ljubljanainternational 🧘 Who’s It For? Locals, internationals, travelers, students Solo attendees, groups, and anyone looking for fun Musicians, dogs, dreamers, sunshine seekers ☀️ 🛑 In Case of Rain: We'll announce cancellations in the group chat and event page. 🎟️ Free Entry • No sign-up needed • Just show up and vibe! 📲 DM us or write in the group chat if you have questions. 🐶 Dogs welcome. Restrooms available. 🔥 We’ve organized 50+ epic events with 1,000+ happy people. Come experience why everyone keeps coming back. 👉 Follow us for more upcoming lake parties, meetups, and picnics.

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!

**History** The history of [Blendon Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blendon-woods/) began long before its 1951 opening, rooted in a landscape of rugged ridges and deep ravines that made the land unsuitable for traditional farming. In 1945, a report proposing a metropolitan park system for Franklin County specifically highlighted these cliffs of Bedford Shale as some of the "wildest land in the vicinity". Following this recommendation, the recently formed park district purchased the first 229 acres in early 1949. Because the terrain was so uneven, developers had to cut a mile-and-a-half-long roadway through dense woods just to bring in heavy equipment. This initial preservation effort ensured that the mature second-growth hardwood forests remained largely untouched by the urban expansion spreading toward Westerville. Opening day arrived on Labor Day, September 3, 1951, marking Blendon Woods as the second park in the Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks system. The final push to open was a frantic race; the State Highway Department only finished the primary gravel access road four days before the gates opened. Early staff members, consisting of just four full-time employees, had to hand-dig pit toilets and learn construction skills on the fly to build the first picnic shelters. Despite the dusty conditions and limited facilities, the park was an immediate success, drawing massive crowds from across Central Ohio. By the end of the 1950s, annual visitation had already climbed to over 190,000 people. As the surrounding suburbs grew in the 1960s, the park faced severe overcrowding that threatened its natural habitats. In response, Franklin County voters passed the first Metro Parks levy in 1960, providing the funds necessary for a decade of steady expansion. During this era, the park nearly doubled in size, growing from 264 acres to over 570 acres by 1968. Planners also addressed a critical water shortage by collaborating with the U.S. Soil and Conservation Service to build a lake in 1964. This body of water originally served as a temporary reservoir before its role shifted toward conservation and wildlife support. The 1970s marked a transition toward the specialized wildlife and educational focus for which the park is known today. In 1971, the Walden Waterfowl Refuge was established around the 11-acre Thoreau Lake, creating a sanctuary that remains restricted to provide a quiet habitat for migratory birds. A formal nature center was also developed during this period, expanding on the guided Sunday walks that had been a park staple since the early 1950s. The park’s famous "Monarch Mansion" also became a prominent fixture, starting a long tradition of raising and releasing thousands of monarch butterflies each September. These initiatives cemented the park’s reputation as a premier destination for birders and nature enthusiasts. In more recent decades, Blendon Woods has continued to modernize while maintaining its wilderness character. The 10-acre Natural Play Area was added in 2017, encouraging kids to explore the ravines and woods off-trail. This was followed by the opening of a $1.5 million inclusive playground in April 2025, designed to accommodate children of all physical abilities. The nature center also underwent major renovations to include immersive, three-dimensional exhibits and a new butterfly house. Today, the park encompasses 653 acres, preserving a unique geologic and biological corridor amidst the bustling Westerville and Northeast Columbus area. **Map of the Park** Here is a map of [Blendon Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/BLN_map_Inclusive-Playground-and-Butterfly-Trail_May-2025_1980px.png). **Summary** For this event, we will hike the Lake View, Hickory Ridge, Ripple Rock, Overlook, Brookside, and Sugarbush Trails. This sounds like a lot, but it will really be only a little over five miles. Blendon Woods has a few hills here and there, but it's not one of the more strenuous metro parks. **Where We'll Meet** We'll meet just in front of the Nature Center. This is about a mile into the park from the main entrance. You have to go past the Ranger Station and the Shadblow Reservable Area to get to it, so don't stop too early at the Ranger Station and get it confused with the Nature Center. **After the Hike** Afterward, we will head over to [Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/) at Easton for [drinks](https://forbiddenroot.com/restaurants/columbus-ohio/#dinner-menu) and [food](https://forbiddenroot.com/wp-content/uploads/Cbus-Food.pdf). We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks. The brewery's actual address is [4080 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4080+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88388a86d10b6619:0x4d42b470a5cf11d3?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111); however, I recommend pointing your GPS to the [Worth Garage](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Worth+Garage/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388b4df6082825:0x17582f0eccd9dda1!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11rzfvvv8b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDQxNS4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D) across the street. Parking in this garage is free as long as you're not on the first floor, and it is literally right next to the brewery.

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.

We’re bringing back Adult Field Day. Last year was a good mix of competition and just hanging out, so we’re doing it again with some new games mixed in. Think team-based challenges, simple races, and a few things inspired by game shows. You don’t need to be athletic. Most of the fun is just being part of a team and getting to know people you wouldn’t normally talk to. The goal isn’t really winning. It’s meeting people, laughing a bit, and leaving knowing a few more names than when you showed up. If you stick around after, we’ll have a potluck, a bonfire, and a couple comedians in the evening. Bring: * Please Bring Something to share for the potluck cookout signup sheet [https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday](https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E49ABA92EA2FAC70-63781787-saturday) * Clothes you can move around in RSVP on Meetup is free. A small contribution helps keep events sustainable and ensures those who RSVP actually show up. Great events take time, effort, and consistency to organize. Most people contribute $2–5 per event to help keep these going. Appreciate everyone who supports — it genuinely makes a difference. If you find value in these events or maybe even made a new friend, consider contributing what feels fair to you. **Contribution link** listed below in the comments

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.

**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.