Poland
Meet other local people interested in Poland: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Poland group.
1,920
members
5
groups
Largest Poland groups
Newest Poland groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out poland events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the poland events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find poland events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Poland Events Today
Join in-person Poland events happening right now
Cuba: An American History, by Ada Ferrer
*From the [publisher's website](https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Cuba-(Winner-of-the-Pulitzer-Prize)/Ada-Ferrer/9781501154560):*
**WINNER OF THE PULITZER PRIZE IN HISTORY**
**WINNER OF THE LOS ANGELES TIMES BOOK PRIZE IN HISTORY**
**“Full of…lively insights and lucid prose” (*The Wall Street Journal*) an epic, sweeping history of Cuba and its complex ties to the United States—from before the arrival of Columbus to the present day—written by one of the world’s leading historians of Cuba.**
In 1961, at the height of the Cold War, the United States severed diplomatic relations with Cuba, where a momentous revolution had taken power three years earlier. For more than half a century, the stand-off continued—through the tenure of ten American presidents and the fifty-year rule of Fidel Castro. His death in 2016, and the retirement of his brother and successor Raúl Castro in 2021, have spurred questions about the country’s future. Meanwhile, politics in Washington—Barack Obama’s opening to the island, Donald Trump’s reversal of that policy, and the election of Joe Biden—have made the relationship between the two nations a subject of debate once more.
Now, award-winning historian Ada Ferrer delivers an “important” (*The Guardian*) and moving chronicle that demands a new reckoning with both the island’s past and its relationship with the United States. Spanning more than five centuries, *Cuba: An American History* provides us with a front-row seat as we witness the evolution of the modern nation, with its dramatic record of conquest and colonization, of slavery and freedom, of independence and revolutions made and unmade.
Along the way, Ferrer explores the sometimes surprising, often troubled intimacy between the two countries, documenting not only the influence of the United States on Cuba but also the many ways the island has been a recurring presence in US affairs. This is a story that will give Americans unexpected insights into the history of their own nation and, in so doing, help them imagine a new relationship with Cuba; “readers will close [this] fascinating book with a sense of hope” (*The Economist*).
Filled with rousing stories and characters, and drawing on more than thirty years of research in Cuba, Spain, and the United States—as well as the author’s own extensive travel to the island over the same period—this is a stunning and monumental account like no other.
***How to find us:***
We meet in the upstairs seating area at Zorba's in Dupont Circle. Look for a sign on a table with a picture of the book's cover on it.
Links:
**[Bookshop](https://bookshop.org/a/91030/9781501154560):** **By purchasing your book through this link, you help support local bookstores and defray the cost of DCIA's Meetup subscription.**
[Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/Cuba-American-Dr-Ada-Ferrer/dp/1501154559)
[Simon & Schuster](https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Cuba-(Winner-of-the-Pulitzer-Prize)/Ada-Ferrer/9781501154560)
[Wikipedia page about Ada Ferrer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ada_Ferrer)
Spanish Language Happy Hour! (Advanced speakers)
¡Buenos dias! Bienvenidos a todos!
Let’s practice our Spanish and meet new people at this Spanish-language happy hour! Geared toward those who have, at minimum, an Advanced level of Spanish and would like to keep it up, our group will speak Spanish exclusively over drinks and appetizers.
This group meets the first Monday of the month. The time is 6:30p to as long as you wish to stay or the restaurant closes! No fee is required to participate.
>
Ending Spring Curanderismo Energy Cleansing Limpia
As we transition into the vibrant energy of summer, it's time to release the old that is no longer serving you. Close chapters and cycles and welcome new beginnings.
This unique one-on-one experience is not to be missed! With limited time and limited spaces available, Secure your spot now. Special Price: Only $111 for this complete package!
* Session Includes Tarot Reading: Gain clarity and insight into your journey.
* Mini Limpia: A Traditiaonal Cuaranderismo cleansing ritual with herbs to remove negative energies.
* Sound Bath: Immerse yourself in healing vibrations that promote relaxation and inner peace.
This special healing session is available from 5/25/2026-6/01/2026 Cleanse your energy and prepare for the abundant summer months ahead. [BOOK NOW](https://curanderasheart.com/book-now/ola/services/ending-spring-curanderismo-energy-cleansing-limpia)
Profs & Pints DC presents: Horror as Queer
[Profs and Pints DC](https://www.profsandpints.com/washingtondc) presents: **“Horror as Queer,”** a look at the influence and depiction of queerness in horror films, with May Santiago, adjunct professor of film studies at George Mason University and producer of the podcast *Horrorspiria.*
[Advance tickets: $13.50 plus sales tax and processing fees. Available at [https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-horror-queer](https://events.ticketleap.com/tickets/profsandpints/dc-horror-queer) .]
Horror was queer long before both Brad and Janet succumbed to the charms of Dr. Frank-N-Furter in *The Rocky Horror Picture Show.* In fact, one could make the argument that, for both better and worse, the history of horror films is the history of queers on film. Film scholar May Santiago will do just that, with plenty of vivid examples, in reprising a talk that has earned rave reviews.
You’ll learn how queer auteurs such as F.W. Murnau and James Whale were there at the very beginning. Murnau played a central role in the German expressionist movement that gave rise to films such as *Nosferatu*, while Whale left a body of work full of queer codes, including the films *Frankenstein*, *The Old Dark House*, and *The Invisible Man.*
From there, Santiago will discuss how the representational codes established by such queer filmmakers were appropriated throughout the celluloid century by non-queer authors who constructed cinematic horror language that used queerness as shorthand for the monstrous. The result was harmful stereotypes of queer people in films and society, with examples being the stoic psycho lesbian trope embodied by Mrs. Danvers in *Rebecca*, the transgender sex-obsessed serial murderer Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s *Psycho*, and the villains of *Dressed to Kill* and *Silence of the Lambs.*
Yet, even with these negative portrayals of explicit or implicit queerness, horror cinema’s relationship with queerness and queer audiences has grown stronger with each passing decade, with queer authors and queer audiences reclaiming the monstrosity that created the basis of the horror genre. Santiago will look at how the evolution of horror films coincided with that of queer stereotypes and how queer authors embedded queerness in films that aren’t explicitly queer. Among the questions she’ll tackle: How did we come around to thinking that the Babadook was gay? ? (Doors: $17, or $15 with a student ID. Listed time is for doors. The talk starts 30 minutes later.)
Image: A frame from the 1920 silent German horror film *The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari* (tint added).
Yappy Happy Hour @ Spark Social
**NEW EVENT!!!** Please be sure to RSVP on **[Eventbrite](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1988727222658?aff=oddtdtcreator)** so we have an accurate guest list.
Pink Poodle Club is Spark's weekly Yappy Hour — every Monday on the back patio from 5–7pm. $1 Scooby Snacks for hoomans and $1 pup cups for the doggos.
Come join us for a fun and **dog-friendly** gathering! It’s the perfect chance to meet new people, share stories, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with the **LGBTQ+ community**. Whether you're looking to make friends or just hang out, everyone’s welcome. Grab your favorite drink and let’s make some great memories together!
This event is free to attend. We hope to see you there. In addition to coffee selections, the venue offers a good food and drinks [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2).
We encourage you to register your attendance in advance. We hope to see you there.
When you arrive with your dog, order on your own from the [menu](https://spark-dc.com/pages/menu-2). Then meet and mingle with LGBTQ+ folk and their dogs on the back patio.
**Metro Directions:** Be eco-friendly. U Street Metro (Yellow/Green line) is only a few blocks away. Take the 13th Street Exit. The venue is adjacent to Crush Bar.
This event is a safe space for everyone under the rainbow.
Please feel free to invite all your friends to join you there!
This event is hosted by **[Go Gay DC](https://www.gogaydc.com)**, Washington DC's inclusive LGBTQ+ community focused on friendship, leadership, and service.
It now reaches over 10K fabulous people and is growing fast. Visit [https://www.gogaydc.com](https://www.gogaydc.com) . Go Gay DC's founder is **[TJ Flavell](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjflavell/)**.
Go Gay DC is on social media:
Join the Facebook Group
[https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoGayDC)
Like the Facebook Page
[https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC](https://www.facebook.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Instagram
[https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC](https://www.instagram.com/GoGayDC)
Follow on Threads
[https://www.threads.com/@GoGayDC](https://www.threads.com/@gogaydc)
Follow on Bluesky
[https://gogaydc.bsky.social/](https://gogaydc.bsky.social/)
Follow on X
[https://www.x.com/GoGayDC](https://www.x.com/GoGayDC)
Watch on YouTube
[https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC](https://www.youtube.com/GoGayDC)
LinkedIn
[https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/GoGayDC?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExZG1DTnM0VnJybG83U3FWcnNydGMGYXBwX2lkEDIyMjAzOTE3ODgyMDA4OTIAAR765Xxf5t8wFzbCac74QNX3p0Bs2oT0drXZoOmLV63J8cURMl3ta5b8iP3ztg_aem_nSdndpxd5-hXJ8myNF2_vQ)
Search keywords: LGBT LGBTQ LGBTQI LQBTQIA Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Queer Intersex Two-Spirit Straight Allies
Poland Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Myths and Sacred Tales: An Evening of Chamber Music and Poetry
You are warmly invited to an evening of chamber music on
**June 6 at 7:00 PM** at the **Kosciuszko Foundation Washington, DC Center**.
# Myths and Sacred Tales
This special concert features a distinguished string quintet:
* **Devree Lewis**, cello
* **Susanna Mendlow**, cello
* **Agata Miklavc**, violin
* **Holly Nelson**, violin
* **Ting-An Wei**, viola
They are joined by **Jason Solounias, piano**.
**Program**
*Mythes, Op. 30* by Karol Szymanowski
I. La fontaine d’Arethuse (The Fountain of Arethusa)
II. Narcisse (Narcissus)
III. Dryades et Pan (Dryads and Pan)
**With accompanying poetry:**
* *Arethusa* by Percy Shelley
* *Narcissus* by John Keats
* *Hymn to Pan* by Aleister Crowley
Performed by:
**Susanna Mendlow**, reader
**Agata Miklavc**, violin
**Jason Solounias**, piano
**Intermission**
*String Quintet in C major, D.956*
I. Allegro ma non troppo
II. Adagio
III. Scherzo. Presto – Trio. Andante sostenuto
IV. Allegretto
**Tickets:** $35 General Admission / $25 KF Members
**Purchase tickets** **[HERE](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/myths-and-secret-tales-an-evening-of-chamber-music-and-poetry-tickets-1988631854409?aff=oddtdtcreator)**
Hors d’oeuvres and wine will be served.
We look forward to sharing this inspiring evening of music and poetry with you. More info **[HERE](https://thekf.org/event/myths-and-secret-tales-an-evening-of-chamber-music-and-poetry-at-the-kf-washington-dc/)**
#### **The event is co-sponsored by the Sylvan and Eugenia Bobinski Fund.**
POSTOPNED DUE TO RAIN, NO EVENT 05/23] : Language Exchange (PLEASE READ🙏)
It is irresistible to enjoy German, French, Korean, Amharic, Italian, Spanish, what not:) convo. The Event is open to all levels of these languages from novice to native fluency.
***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.***
We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
We will give out name tags. You write your name and what language you speak and what language you would like to exchange.
All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange.
Rules to abide :
1\. Event is free and 21\+ \(bring ID\)\.
2\. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well\.
3\. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible\.
4\. If you don't speak the other person's required language\, LEAVE THEM ALONE\.
5\. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion\.
6\. This is a face\-to\-face language exchange event\. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting\, by using the comment box or direct message\.
7\. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box\. Since it sends notification to all attendees\. If you have any questions\, send a message to the organizers\. Don't write in the comment box\.
8\. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation\. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event\. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via \(info@merevents\.com\)\.
9\. When you get there\, we will greet you and take you to your respective group\.
10\. Don't be shy of your local languages\. We have diplomates assigned to different countries\, who would love to practice your languages\.
11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\.
12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\.
13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class.
***AFTER THE HAPPY HOUR, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
[)
Washington DC Global Socializing
Greetings from the capital!
Every Saturday at 7:30 PM, people from all walks of life — students, diplomats, travelers, locals — gather to unwind and connect.
[[Click this whatsapp groupchat link to join](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JFESzopY1OgJ5z4r3RINfL)]
Our age range is mostly 20s to 30s. If you enjoy discussing culture, politics, travel, or just want to practice a new language, this group is for you.
A perfect blend of diversity and dialogue, right in the heart of D.C.
Saturday ROOFTOP Language Exchange
Let us meet up for a language exchange. We will give out name tags. You write your name and what language you speak and what language you would like to exchange.
***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.***
We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange.
HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All languages are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular language, you would like to exchange.
Rules to abide :
1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID).
2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well.
3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible.
4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE.
5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion.
6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message.
7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box.
8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com).
9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group.
10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages.
11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\.
12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\.
13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speaker\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \(info@merevents\.com\)\. We have a school and will arrange you a class\.
***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***
[POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN, NO EVENT 05/23] : Spanish & Portuguese HH [PLEASE READ]
It is irresistible, to enjoy a Spanish and Portuguese convo with appetizers, glass of wine and rail drinks.
***GRAB A DRINK AND YOU ARE ALL SET TO FLEX YOUR LANGUAGE CAPACITY. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD :) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.***
We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested.
We have the discretion to decide entry.
HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign tables for each represented languages and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly.
Rules to abide :
1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID).
2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to exchange with others as well.
3. We all are native speakers of one or two languages and be willing to help others and try to accommodate as much as possible.
4. If you don't speak the other person's required language, LEAVE THEM ALONE.
5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion.
6. This is a face-to-face language exchange event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message.
7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box.
8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com)).
9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group.
10. Don't be shy of your local languages. We have diplomates assigned to different countries, who would love to practice your languages.
11\. Be patient for the first 30 minutes\, up until we form your respective language group\.
12\. We will have a registration station and check you in\.
13\. This is mainly a social for Intermediate/Advanced/Native Speakers\. It is not as such to learn a language\. Beginners\, if you want to learn a language\, reach out to us \([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)). We have a school and will arrange you a class.
***AFTER THE EXCHANGE, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!***
Poland Events Near You
Connect with your local Poland community
Saturday Mornings @ East Market
Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating.
Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator.
Per what this group is about:
"Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."
Stop Negative thinking and Over-thinking and Feel More Positive
How do we recover from having had a toxic or narcissistic ex?
How do we move on from the past, especially something as traumatic as a divorce or breakup?
How do we avoid anxiety and depression?
How do we have more self esteem?
In this meeting, you will learn the mental health secrets to help you
quickly get over the past and heal your mind.
Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there.
This group is created by the Dianetics & Scientology life improvement center.
Feel Good Friday: POWER BALLAD at the Gateway Film Center + SHAKE NO. 8!
Join us as we get together to see Paul Rudd in the latest comedy-drama-musical from John Carney, POWER BALLAD! The film follows a washed-up wedding singer, a fading boy band singer and a stolen hit song. Here’s a description, trailer and plan for this event:
DESCRIPTION: Rick, a washed-up wedding singer, and Danny, a fading boy band star, bond over music and a late-night jam session. When Danny turns Rick's song into a hit, Rick sets out to reclaim the recognition he believes he deserves. Power Ballad is written/directed by John Carney, the master of the modern musical and creative mind behind Once, Begin Again and Sing Street! It stars Paul Rudd, Nick Jonas, Peter McDonald, Marcella Plunkett, Havana Rose Liu and Jack Reynor.
BUZZ & ACCLAIM: The film premiered to rave reviews at this year’s Dublin International Film Festival where critics call it “a sure-fired crowd-pleaser” that “just might be the feel-good hit of the year!” Others say, “Paul Rudd delivers a career-best performance in this charmer” that’s both “hilarious and deeply moving." The film continues John Carney’s “long run of success with yet another charmer” and “a sharp, hopeful crowd-pleaser that strikes the right notes!”
SUMMER OF ICE CREAM, VOL 2: SHAKE NO. 8! Ranked the #1 Ice Cream Shop in Columbus, this is a perfect early stop on our Summer of Ice Cream! Their menu uses made-from-scratch recipes in an array of traditional, specialty and vegan shakes, hot cocoa, crepes, waffle sticks, specialty coffee & espresso, and more! Their specialty shakes are as delicious as they are over-the-top and they offer an extensive vegan menu! You can check out their full menu here: [https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php](https://www.shakeno8.com/menu.php)
PLAN: Please purchase your ticket for the 6:45pm showing and we’ll meet in the upstairs lobby between 6:25 and 6:35pm! Advance ticket purchase is advised for this opening night showing! Once you have yours, please list your seat number in the Comments section of this event. We'll head to nearby Shake No. 8 immediately following the show!
Should be a fun one, Dan
Starting and Maintaining Relationships
This is a free in-person meeting.
Let's talk about relationships in such a way that you can really benefit from the knowledge.
We can talk about
* Soulmates
* How to start a relationship
* How to maintain a relationship
* How to pick the right partner
* How to recognize the red flags
* How to improve communication
* How to avoid argument and fights
* How to increase trust
You ask the questions, we'll talk about them.
Be sure to click on the red "Attend" button below to come to this local event. We look forward to seeing you there.
This group is sponsored the Dianetics & Scientology Self-Improvement Center.
June 2026 AWS Columbus - Topic to be announced
Topic to be announced.
**THANK YOU** *Franklin University* for hosting our meetup! To learn more about *Franklin University*, please visit their website: https://www.franklin.edu/
**DIRECTIONS**
Franklin University
Fisher Hall
300 E. Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/jxjBA2hUmS5qrvhq8
Parking is FREE! Please park in Lot C in front of Fisher Hall. See attached map.
NOTE: Map the address only. When mapping with Google Maps it may use the Fisher Hall at OSU, which is NOT correct.
**Want to sponsor the pizza and/or bar tab?**
Please contact me if you would like to sponsor this meetup's pizza and/or bar tab: angelo@mandato.com
American Sign Language Beginners Meetup Group
We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able!
Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!
Trails & Ales! Chestnut Ridge Metro Park / BrewDog DogTap
**History**
[Chestnut Ridge Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/chestnut-ridge/) is historically significant because it sits on a 300-million-year-old outcropping of Blackhand sandstone. Geographically recognized as the very first foothill of the Appalachian Mountains, the ridge rises 1,116 feet above sea level. Long before European settlement, the land served as a sacred site for ancient civilizations. The park contains the Old Maid's Orchard Mound, an eight-foot-tall burial mound constructed by the Adena culture between 1000 B.C. and 100 B.C. This ancient landmark has remained largely intact and is now protected on the National Register of Historic Places.
The documented modern history of the land began with an official survey conducted by Ebenezer Buckingham in 1801. Original land deeds of sale from this period notably bear the signatures of United States Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. In the 1830s, Irish laborers arrived at the ridge to quarry its rich Blackhand sandstone. The blocks they hewed were used to build the crucial locks for the nearby Ohio and Erie Canal. Remnants of this early sandstone quarrying operation can still be spotted by sharp-eyed hikers along the modern trails.
Agricultural transformation defined the ridge throughout the mid-to-late 19th century. Settlers discovered that the high elevation created a natural air flow that prevented late-season frost damage to crops. Extensive fruit orchards were planted across the slopes between 1860 and 1880. One notable orchard was established by John Wagner, a Spanish-American War veteran who chose the ridge specifically for its proximity to the bustling Columbus market. The park's current name pays homage to the massive American chestnut trees that once dominated the ridgeline before a devastating ecological blight wiped them out in the early 20th century.
The conservation story of the modern 486-acre park began in March 1962. The Metro Parks board announced land acquisition plans to block developers from building a residential housing development called Chestnut Heights. Director-Secretary Walter A. Tucker advocated heavily for the purchase, citing the ridge's immense value as a scenic overlook for central Ohio. The district systematically purchased multiple agricultural parcels over the next two decades. After operating strictly as undeveloped farmland through the 1970s, Chestnut Ridge Metro Park officially opened to the public on December 18, 1988.
In recent decades, the park has evolved from a quiet hiking spot into a premier regional destination for outdoor sports. A major turning point occurred in 2010 when the Central Ohio Mountain Biking Organization (COMBO) partnered with the park district to develop new infrastructure. Volunteers worked extensively to construct a single-track mountain bike trail, which officially opened in October 2011. An expert gravity and flow trail featuring advanced jumps was later integrated into the loop in 2016. Today, the park successfully balances its deep ancient, industrial, and agricultural history with active recreation.
**Map of the Park**
Here is a [map of Chestnut Ridge](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/CHR_map_1980px_2026.jpg).
**Summary**
For this event, we will hike the Ridge, Meadows, and Homesite Trails, and Law's Lane, which is unmarked on some maps. None of these trails is individually very long, so we will hike a few permutations and loops until we get in 4-5 miles. The hike will be moderately strenuous.
**Where We'll Meet**
Drive to the rearmost picnic area at the back of the park. There's a latrine here, but there's no water fountain here or anywhere else at Chestnut Ridge. I strongly recommend you bring some water of your own, at least for after the hike.
Cell service at the park is spotty, although your GPS will get you there just fine. The map pin I've provided here is exactly where we'll be meeting and should be able to be used directly in Google Maps, although Chestnut Ridge isn't big and you're unlikely to get lost here.
**After the Hike**
Afterward, we'll head over to [BrewDog DogTap](https://drink.brewdog.com/usa/brewdog-dogtap-columbus) for [drinks](https://usa.brewdog.com/pages/brewdog-lineup) and [food](https://usa.brewdog.com/cdn/shop/files/DogTap_Menu_2025_65e1ff8b-97d4-4f26-80f1-68321d482025.pdf?v=17356939232910340498). They also have an outdoor area that's extremely popular.
I've had their burgers and their pizza, and I think they're both very good. I also really like their [Cold Beer](https://usa.brewdog.com/products/cold-beer-2024) (that's its actual name), which is their American light lager.
BrewDog's actual address is [96 Gender Rd, Canal Winchester, OH 43110](https://www.google.com/maps/place/96+Gender+Rd,+Canal+Winchester,+OH+43110/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x88387c06afa21a85:0x804c611d373d8c54?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and they have a large, free parking lot. We should be there by 5 if you can't make the hike and just want to join us for drinks.












![POSTOPNED DUE TO RAIN, NO EVENT 05/23] : Language Exchange (PLEASE READ🙏)](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/1/7/5/8/highres_531845976.webp?w=640)




![[POSTPONED DUE TO RAIN, NO EVENT 05/23] : Spanish & Portuguese HH [PLEASE READ]](https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/4/e/4/9/highres_476300041.webp?w=640)






