Park

**This event is free for Sunday Vacations members. Membership starts at €5/year.** 👉 Join here: [https://www.sundayvacations.com](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership) *Please RSVP only if you are reasonably sure you can attend and update your RSVP if your plans change.* Escape the city bustle and join us for a magical evening walk from the royal gardens of Tervuren, through the ancient Sonian Forest, ending at the picturesque Rouge Cloître. This hike is perfect for anyone looking to unwind, breathe some fresh forest air, and enjoy the golden hour colors. 🗺️ The Route We will start at the Tervuren Station (terminus of Tram 44). We’ll begin by walking through the formal gardens and ponds of Tervuren Park, enjoying the open views and the sunset light reflecting on the water. From there, we will dive into the Sonian Forest (Fôret de Soignes), walking under the canopy of the majestic beech cathedrals. We will walk through the magnificent Arboretum that boasts centennial trees and majestic Giant Sequoias. The path will lead us gently downhill towards the historic Rouge Cloître (Red Closter), a 14th-century Augustinian priory nestled on the edge of the forest where we will stop for a well deserved drink. 🕒 The Plan *Meeting Time: 14:50 - Meeting Point: Just outside the Tervuren Station (Terminus of Tram 44). *The Walk: We depart at 15:00 sharp. - The End: We aim to arrive at Rouge Cloître around 18:00 - 18:30. *Après-Walk: We usually grab a drink at the beautiful Maison du Prieur in Rouge Cloître. 📋 Practical Details - Distance: Approximately 12 km. *Duration: \~3.5 hours walking time. *Pace: Casual to moderate. We wait for everyone, but please be comfortable walking this distance. - Terrain: Mostly flat/downhill with some unpaved forest paths. 🎒 What to Bring *Comfortable Shoes: Walking shoes or sneakers (trail runners are great if it has rained recently). - Water: Stay hydrated! *Layers: Evenings can get chilly in the forest. 🚇 Getting Home The walk ends at Rouge Cloître. From there, it is a short 10-15 minute walk to Herrmann-Debroux metro station (Line 5), buses and tram 8 which connect you easily back to the city center. Note: This event is free of charge. Participation is at your own risk. Please **RSVP only** if you intend to come so we don't leave anyone behind! See you on the trail! 🌳✨

This SATURDAY 16.05.2026- Brussels Open Air Event @International Party at La Terrasse O2 \- Powered by Just A Night \| Free Entrance (LA TERRASSE DE L’HIPPODROME) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \- Join us : [https://fb.me/e/9APsmrbmm](https://fb.me/e/9APsmrbmm) \- Skip the line & Garanty Pass \>\>\> Free Tickets : [https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/15871](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/15871) -17 :00 – 00 :00 (live music by Jeremie Charlier & friends) Powered by JUST A NIGHT Label, Euro Village & XiB [eXpats In Belgium] \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- COME DANCE – JOIN US - BRING FRIENDS - DRESS TO IMPRESS - SPREAD THE WORD- INVITE FRIENDS - EVERYONE IS WELCOME. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- \*TERRAZZA XXL \*GREAT PEOPLE \*PRE-PARTY \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- We we are proposing you 1 After-Party : Cactus club \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Something more than just a regular night out. [https://fb.me/e/9APsmrbmm](https://fb.me/e/9APsmrbmm) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- La Terrasse O2 (Terrasse de l'Hippodrome) 51-53 Chaussée de la Hulpe, 1180 Brussels

THIS SATURDAY 16.05 – PARTY PLACE TO BE HOT & SPICY \| Single Live Party XXL at Le Cactus Club \> Skip the line & Garanty Pass : **[https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16066](https://www.partyfinder.com/en/event/16066?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBEwRGxNZlVpZzBROTU0TlRnOXNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR5wP-tf_myBEWU5RgvMI0CoZbdVzRM5RURVr04VAwCDvvztty39tOYavo8LIw_aem_OOWfbbvpyvdN0Am12b5zqA)** \> Facebook : **[https://fb.me/e/58Ky9SgE4](https://fb.me/e/58Ky9SgE4)** ![📅]()Saturday – 16 May 2026 Official After-Party of La Terrasse O2 Open air ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![📍]()Cactus Club – Brussels ![✨]()OLD SCHOOL PARTY 80s 90s 2000s ![✨]() Get ready for an unforgettable summer night in one of Brussels’ most iconic party spots! ![🌴]()SPRING VIBES – INTERNATIONAL CROWD – BAR DANCING ![🎧]()Music by: Phil HARLET + Special Guests ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![🌍]()INTERNATIONAL PARTY CONCEPT The most iconic and mobile party concepts in Brussels, created by nightlife lovers who have been energizing the city for more than 10 years. Expect a cosmopolitan atmosphere where you’ll meet: ![✨]()Belgian & international artists ![✨]()DJs & nightlife personalities ![✨]()Models & influencers ![✨]()Entrepreneurs & expats ![✨]()Party lovers from all over the world A place where Brussels’ nightlife meets international vibes. ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![🎉]()WHAT TO EXPECT ![🔥]()Incredible summer atmosphere ![💃]()Bar dancing ![🌎]()International crowd ![🎶]()Top DJs & party music ![🍹]()Amazing venue & summer vibes Life is a Party – Join Us! ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![👗]()DRESS CODE Ladies: Jeans shorts, boots, summer flowers… or simply Be Yourself! Gents: Summer Chic Dress to impress. ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![⏰]()DOORS OPEN ![🕥]()10:30 PM Be ready for a wild, crazy and unforgettable party night. ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ ![🍾]()TABLE BOOKINGS ![📧]()info@justanight.net ![📞]()+32 477 60 61 31 ![🚗]()Free parking all night ![🚇]()Easy access by bus, metro, taxi & Uber ![🔥]()COME DANCE – JOIN US – BRING FRIENDS – SPREAD THE WORD ▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔▔ **[#SpringbreakParty](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/springbreakparty?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#InternationalParty](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/internationalparty?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#JustANight](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/justanight?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#CactusClub](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/cactusclub?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** **[#PartyInBrussels](https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/partyinbrussels?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZZj476f45t0UjSIrtAU-LwIfYgPWaodA-YIpoNdEwrVhLV_KX_GF_rcSE21k0mv44efKlYaRTZWTEf7LFL9MrKrXY5kS6_1Su0icEhx0fE9XJ7PLVeh4Ox2oZKlu_3orFKPq0dWbeI6_5xo1SYTnG9Ma9eLStpzCIVaNI0UDOnNU322i_PfRvItjYzSuWwLHWg&__tn__=*NK-R)** ![📍]()LOCATION Cactus Club - Boulevard du Souverain 147 1160 Auderghem – Brussels

FOREST PLAY (10h-12h) The Forest Play - sessions are inclusive, nurturing and natural reconnecting events, focussing on restoring or replenishing energy, the sense of joy and personal perspective by interacting (and playing) with nature's healing elements. Combining tension-releasing stretches, easy flow-restoring exercises (using trees, branches, logs, stones, hills...), doing silent or touch meditations and playful authentic relating games, we're able to get in touch with our inner-child and start to feel free, open-hearted, unassuming and adventurous again, bringing back the joy and vitality we all carry deeply within, but often believed to have been lost. Our hearts gradually open and start reconnecting again. The 2h-sessions focus on gradually increasing physical resilience, but include emotional and energetic aspects as well to restore general holistic balance in body, mind and spirit. There is no competitive stake to it, there are no extremes or high-intensity actions involved. But we do play gently with our personal comfort zones, sliding in and out, at times challenging our personal beliefs, convictions and limitations. These edges are where the real learning takes place, so take note. The sessions have powerful therapeutic value. They are developed, customised and guided by specialised trauma therapist Ken Christiaens. All exercises, while feeling light and fun, have a foundation in trauma and tension-releasing therapies, with elements of inner child work, constellations, reiki, NLP, somatic work, role/game play and meditation. Nature's increased healing potential (forest bathing) is fully being harnessed here. For more info on the therapeutic practice of Ken, please visit: www.nieuwegrond.be PRACTICAL The Forest Play-session starts at 10h sharp and ends at 12h. It costs 18e to participate. Meeting and end-point is always Parking Forest Playground Everzwijnbad, Weertsedreef 8-10, Oud-Heverlee (please read location description well, Google Maps can be a bit tricky). You actually might get a bit dirty and sweaty at some point, please prepare for outdoor nature workout: sporty shoes with ribs, sporty clothes, maybe a small towel (feet might get dirty or wet) or anything you feel comfortable with. Regarding the payment: You will be asked to transfer 18e to Ken's account beforehand or bring it on the day itself. Your participation is only confirmed if you have confirmed the payment as well. The event will be cancelled only when the weather really doesn't allow it. If you have any other questions, please don't hesitate to ask via personal message. We hope to see and connect with you there!

Need some quiet time for reading? Want to share the experience with others? Join us at the charming venue of The Sister Café to read in the company of others. It’s alone, but also together, get it? We read for an hour and a half, then chat over a drink. This is a free activity except for the price of the drinks you're consuming.

Hi people, The 16th of May is BXL PRIDE 🌈 If you don't have any companions, let's do Pride March together! We can meet up at the entrance of the Hilton Hotel (in front of Central Station) at 15:00. it is officially starts at 2.30 but..well...they are normally late. The idea is to go with the flow, which will eventually brings us to the Crazy circle street party 🥳 We're looking forward to seeing you! Cheers 🍻

If you have a ball, please bring it... Let's gather at the Parc du Cinquantenaire close to the Tour de Tournai (https://goo.gl/maps/RsxFtTJydq92) and organize a *low-level* football match on the grass. Unless it rains badly as we're about to play, the game is on. Players of any age, weight, sex and size are allowed. Come as you are, at any time after 4pm. IMPORTANT REMINDER -- As Shitty Players, we don't bite or growl when someone misses the ball. We don't do penalties or yellow cards because we're so gentle we don't need them. We vaguely know of the existence of other rules like off-side but we'd rather ignore them than argue about them. We may or may not keep track of the score: this is a game where everyone wins. To help build the Team, come with 2 t-shirts white and black (or similar colors: light grey and dark blue etc). Beer session will follow on the grass, for those who survive till the end. You can also join the Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/176606662846112/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/2/a/b/3/600_460870931.jpeg

# 🌲 Coo Escape: Ardennes Forest Hike & Waterfall Views **Trade the city for forests, fresh air, and panoramic Ardennes landscapes.** Join Sunday Vacations for a scenic Sunday hiking experience around Coo and Trois-Ponts — featuring forest trails, elevated viewpoints, riverside sections, and the famous Coo waterfalls. Designed for international professionals, expats, locals, and solo joiners, this experience combines movement, nature, and meaningful social connection in one of Belgium’s most beautiful regions. *** ## Experience Overview This curated Ardennes loop hike begins from **Trois-Ponts railway station** and takes us through scenic forest trails, panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Amblève Valley, and the iconic surroundings of Coo. Expect a relaxed but active Sunday with a welcoming international group atmosphere, social picnic breaks, and plenty of opportunities to disconnect from routine and reconnect with nature. People increasingly join outdoor community experiences not just for the activity itself, but for the sense of connection and belonging they create. *** ## Event Type 🌿 **Curated Experience** *** ## Highlights * Scenic Ardennes forest hike * Great viewpoints over the Coo region * Discover the famous Coo waterfalls * Beautiful riverside and woodland trails * Relaxed international community atmosphere * Solo joiners welcome * Ideal Sunday nature reset * Train-accessible from Brussels *** ## Plan / Itinerary **08:45** – Meet at Starbucks Coffee, Brussels Central Station **09:01** – Train departure from Brussels Central **11:05** – Start of the hike from Trois-Ponts railway station **13:15** – Picnic & social break with scenic views **14:00** – Continue panoramic forest circuit toward Coo **16:30** – Optional stop near Coo waterfalls **17:05** – Train back toward Brussels **18:55** – Estimated arrival in Brussels *Schedule may slightly adapt depending on group pace and weather conditions.* *** ## Meeting Point 📍 Starbucks Coffee – Brussels Central Station Please arrive on time so the group can depart together. *** ## Hike Information 🥾 Distance: Approximately 16 km ⛰ Difficulty: Moderate with some elevation 🔄 Route Type: Loop Circuit 📍 Region: Coo & Trois-Ponts, Belgian Ardennes *** ## Price / Contribution **Community contribution:** €5 for non members and Explorer members Includes: * Event organisation * Group coordination * Guided community hiking experience Not included: * Train tickets * Food & drinks * Personal expenses Participants purchase transportation independently unless otherwise specified. **VAT not applicable – small business exemption scheme, Article 56bis Belgian VAT Code.** *** ## Membership ### Sunday Vacations Memberships * **Explorer** – €5/year * **Voyager** – €50/year * **Ambassador** – €150/year Members receive access to discounts, priority registrations, and selected community perks throughout the year. *** ## Who This Is For Perfect for: * Expats and international professionals * Solo joiners * Nature lovers * People looking for meaningful social experiences * Beginner to intermediate hikers * Anyone wanting a refreshing Sunday outside Brussels Research consistently shows that expats highly value experiences that support social connection, quality of life, and community belonging. *** ## What to Bring * Hiking shoes with good grip * Water bottle * Packed lunch or snacks * Rain jacket / weather layers * Small backpack * Positive energy *** ## Important Notes * Some trails may be muddy or slippery depending on weather conditions. * This is a community-oriented hiking experience, not a competitive sports activity. * The route may be adjusted slightly depending on weather or trail conditions. * Please ensure you are comfortable walking for several hours with breaks. Nature-focused and wellbeing-oriented travel experiences continue to grow as people increasingly seek restorative and intentional ways to spend their weekends. *** ## Legal Disclaimer Sunday Vacations / UJAMAA ASBL acts as a community organiser facilitating social and cultural experiences and does not operate as a licensed travel agency. Transportation and all third-party services are independently provided by external operators and remain the responsibility of participants unless explicitly stated otherwise. Participants join voluntarily and are responsible for ensuring they are physically fit for the activity. *** ## Call to Action 🌿 Ready for a proper Sunday escape? Join us for forests, waterfalls, panoramic Ardennes views, and good company — all just a train ride away from Brussels. Spots are limited to maintain a relaxed and social group atmosphere.

May roses started blooming so we will do our 11 km loop hike around the Coloma International Rose Garden this Sunday 🌹 Our meeting point is the Gaasbeek Ice cream Bar parking lot 🅿️ in Lennik. After the hike we can either have lunch in that same bar or just a drink or an ice cream 😉 🍦 See you on Sunday! Sandra 0497/243455

Dear beautiful people, This is going to be just a short walk in a very accessible park next to the Berchem station. Join us to move a bit and have a good chat. [https://www.komoot.com/tour/2705074084](https://www.komoot.com/tour/2705074084) **Whatsapp group**: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BrlR1O98MTKLhciJSRNRlZ) (only for members who have attended at least one event or after contacting the organizer) General information: *We wait for 5 minutes after the starting time if no one has announced they will be late. - If someone has informed us they will be late, we wait up to 15 minutes after the starting time. *The location of the group is shared in the WhatsApp group for approximately 45-50 minutes after the starting time for those arriving more than 15 minutes late. - To ensure everyone feels comfortable, and since some walking paths may not be dog-friendly, we kindly ask that you do not bring dogs or other pets. *Walks may be canceled due to forecasted heavy rain or temperatures above 30°C or below 5°C. A final decision will be made by 10 AM on the day of the walk. NOTE; The weather may be rainy little bit so please bring your raincoat and umbrella and of course your positive energy and smile 😊

* 42km loop from Parc du Cinquantenaire to [Parc de Tervuren](https://maps.app.goo.gl/rc6PPwXwFGhUfprTA) and return through the forest. * Coffee 10h30 \| leaving 11h00\. * Estimated moving time 2h45 not including lunch and some brief stops. * Lunch at the halfway point in Tervuren—bring your own. * Meet at [Guingette Maurice](https://www.google.com/search?num=10&sca_esv=c9874bb074d0c29e&biw=2048&bih=1022&sxsrf=ANbL-n7VfOmjMKdEleL4ozbIswY-bStEPw:1777023676638&q=Guingette+Maurice&si=AL3DRZGNtcdgKOqVhotcr-UG2kkYpwR2WO4qu3O00NmpwBmLnWGlJ-sJ67ZY5GMMMbeMY-1kVZqsmva8UgiBKmBXfuRGV7y4itqLk5c6f-bOxJRrBHBdGct3W4jSxNn4GyEwXFP3l5Pl&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiDpYOImYaUAxVDTqQEHXotOi0Q_coHegQIPRAB) in Parc du Cinquantenaire. * View the route or download the GPX from [here](https://loc.wiki/t/263938562?wa=sc). * If bad weather is forecast this will be cancelled or rescheduled so check this event page before start time. * More general information on the [About](https://www.meetup.com/brussels-cycling-group/) page. * Tel: 04 86 40 6816

For more informations about all my classes, events, workshops and retreats https://www.thehappybody.be/contact \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 🇬🇧 This event is also open to English speakers – explanations will be given in both French and English \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📅 Date : 17 May @ 11.00 ( actual departure 11.15 - no waiting after that) 📍 Départ : Rue Scheutbosch corner wit Bld Louis Mettewie ([lien](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JfpKbFfK67DV85qE9)) 📍 Arrivée : Place St Lambert 🚶‍♂️ Distance : ± 9 km - NOT A LOOP ⏰ Durée : environ 3-4h (marche + Qigong) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- 📲 Rejoignez aussi le groupe WhatsApp pour toutes les communications relatives a cet événement qui se feront via ce groupe. https://chat.whatsapp.com/LNUvsvoGrRyEkS4meiyrir?mode=gi_t My phone number: 0492 92 00 84 *** ### **🌱 Description** Rejoignez-nous pour la Sixième étape de notre grand cycle « Les 12 Balades Qigong – Promenade Verte de Bruxelles ». Chaque mois, nous parcourons un tronçon de la Promenade Verte en mêlant marche douce et pratique de Qigong en pleine nature. Au fil du parcours, nous ferons des pauses pour pratiquer des mouvements simples de Qigong, accessibles à tous, afin de : * harmoniser la respiration, * libérer les tensions accumulées, * s’ancrer profondément dans la nature environnante. *** ### **🎒 Infos pratiques** * Activité ouverte à tous niveaux, aucune expérience en Qigong requise. * Vêtements confortables et adaptés à la météo. * Chaussures de marche conseillées (terrain parfois TREShumide). * Apporter une gourde d’eau. *** ### **🔗 Réservations** 📲 Inscription obligatoire via Meetup pour garantir une bonne organisation. Nombre de places limitées afin de garder un cadre convivial et respectueux. *** ✨ A quiet, almost hidden corner where Brussels slows down. The Molenbeek Valley offers a mix of small paths, open spaces, and slightly wild areas — an ideal environment to step out of the usual rhythm and reconnect with your body. We begin with a gentle walk to reach a calm practice spot. During the session, you’ll be introduced to Qigong — a simple and effective practice rooted in traditional Chinese movement. It combines slow movements, breathing, and attention to help release tension, improve mobility, and calm the nervous system. The exercises are easy to follow, even if it’s your first time. The focus is not on performance, but on sensation: moving with awareness, breathing more freely, and allowing the body to reset. Depending on the session, we may explore sequences like **Ba Duan Jin (Eight Brocades)**, each with its own focus on circulation, joints, and overall energy. We close with a quiet return walk, giving the body time to integrate — often leaving with a clearer mind and a lighter, more grounded feeling.

**Come join us for a friendly social run at Parc du Cinquantenaire** 🌳🏛️ We’ll meet at Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels and run either 5 km, depending on how everyone feels on the day. All levels are welcome 🤝 The focus is on enjoying the run, staying active, and meeting new people. Bring your running shoes 👟, water 💧, and positive energy ⚡ . 📍 **Location: Parc du Cinquantenaire, Brussels** **📞 Contact: 0471695419** Let’s enjoy a great run together! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️✨

The **20km of Brussels is fully booked**… and our Sunday Vacations group is already complete this year. 👉 But don’t worry — **you’ll be able to join us for 2027** **([https://www.sundayvacations.com/event-details/the-20-km-of-brussels-2026](https://www.sundayvacations.com/event-details/the-20-km-of-brussels-2026))** In the meantime, we’ve found the perfect alternative **👉 The 15km of Woluwe = ideal test run + great social experience** -- ### 🏃 Why Join This Event 💡 **If you're running the 20km Brussels:* This is the **perfect real-life test** before race da ✔ Test your pace ✔ Test your endurance ✔ Get into race conditions (crowd, water stations, atmosphere) 💡 **If you missed the 20km this year:** 👉 This is your moment to still enjoy a **race experience in Brussels** 👉 No pressure, just fun, movement, and good vibe -- ### 🌿 The Experience We’ll join the race **together as a group** ✔ Beautiful route through Woluwe & nature ✔ Mix of city + forest vibes ✔ Friendly, festive race atmospher ✔ Sunday Vacations energy + communit 👉 And of course: **optional drink after the race 🍻** -- ### 📅 Practical Inf *** Date: **Sunday 17 May 2026 ** *Start: **Stade Fallon (Woluwe-Saint-Lambert) *** Distance: **15 km ** *Level: **Intermediate (not beginner) -- ### 👥 Who Is This For *Those preparing for the **20km Brussels*** - Those who** missed it this year **but still want the vib *Runners who enjoy a **social + international group** - Solo participants welcome -- ### 🎟️ Registration ⚠️ You must register **individually via the official race website** 👉 We meet as a group, but each person handles their own race registration -- ### 💬 Sunday Vacations Participation ### ⚠️ Important This is a **community meetup**, not an organized race by Sunday Vacations All race logistics are handled by the official organizers -- ### 🔥 The Mindset This is not just a run 👉 It’s your **test before the big one** 👉 Or your **second chance to experience race day** Either way — we do it **together**

**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'll get in around 4 miles at Three Creeks Metro Parks, primarily natural trails. 17-18 minute miles, no one left behind, and faster walkers are free to lead out. Optional lunch after! If you're joining for hiking all the metro parks, this is the sixth one!

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.