Social and Cultural Outings

**Afloat** is a popular venue serving cocktails, mains and bar bites in a beach club-style setting on the Yarra River. This season's theme is Rio de Janeiro! The design has taken inspiration from Rio’s rainforest, beaches and famed street culture so expect vivid colour pops reflecting Rio’s energetic beachside life. 📍Afloat, 2 Flinders Walk, Melbourne VIC 3000 (on the Yarra River) Most people come along by themselves so don't worry if you don't know any of the other members. Come along for relaxed socialising and making new friends in a change of scenery. New people are always welcome. We have all been the new person at some point in time Join us to meet new people and see the familiar faces of the regular members. This is a regular weekly group for socialising and unwinding for the weekend Events are also on: Meet New People, Make Real Friends [https://www.meetup.com/casual-catchups-and-cool-connections/](https://www.meetup.com/casual-catchups-and-cool-connections/) Bartopia [https://www.meetup.com/bartopia/](https://www.meetup.com/bartopia/) Bartopia [https://www.facebook.com/groups/bartopia/](https://www.facebook.com/groups/bartopia/) Follow us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/bartopia.melbourne/](https://www.instagram.com/bartopia.melbourne/) This week's venue: https://afloat.melbourne/

This is a relaxed after-work bouldering session at **[BlocHaus Bouldering Port Melbourne](https://maps.app.goo.gl/sXoZZVviD4eJY8w89)**, focused on moving, chatting, and unwinding rather than performance or grades. If you’re curious about bouldering, coming back after a break, or just want a low-key way to be active and social on a weekday evening, this one’s for you. No partner required, no pressure to climb hard, and no expectation to already know anyone. We’ll climb at our own pace, take plenty of rest, and socialise between attempts. **Who This Is For** * Beginners or first-timers * Casual climbers who prefer a social pace * Solo joiners who don’t want it to feel intimidating * Anyone who wants to move their body without it feeling like a workout class If you’re an experienced climber, you’re still welcome — just expect a chill, mixed-ability vibe. **Plan** * 6:00 pm — Meet at reception, quick hellos * 6:15 pm — Gentle warm-up & easy climbs * 6:30 pm — Climb at your own pace, rest, and chat between attempts * 8:45pm — Wind down, stretch, and head off Feel free to arrive later or leave earlier — no rigid structure. **What to Bring** * Change of clothes * Climbing shoes (hire available at the gym) * Entry fee paid individually at the desk * Check out the pricing here: [https://mlb.blochaus.com.au/pricing/](https://mlb.blochaus.com.au/pricing/) **Event Notes** This is not a lesson or coaching session — just a friendly container to climb and socialise together. The goal is to make weekday movement feel easy and welcoming, not intense. **Meeting point:** [BlocHaus Bouldering](https://maps.app.goo.gl/sXoZZVviD4eJY8w89) reception at **6pm**. I’ll post a photo of myself here once I arrive. If you’re running late, please message me your ETA beforehand — once you arrive, I can share our location with you.

1 Crockford St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207 EVERY FORTNIGHT THURSDAY! 2週間に一度の開催! PRIVATE EVENT! 完全プライベート語学交換会！ 🇯🇵🇦🇺 \[FREE Language Exchange:無料\! 2週間ごと開催！！日本語と英語で話しましょう\!\] \[MUST READ\!\!\! English below\] 🎉hosted by: MELLIFE 🎉 メルライフ主催🎉 概要は下に！ We do most of the announcements on Instagram! Check us out! インスタフォローもよろしくお願いします🙏 IG: @mellife2022 [毎月2回木曜日開催] Location: The Cornerstone 1 Crockford St, Port Melbourne VIC 3207 Entry fee: Free !!! Time: 6pm\~ 8pm [Schedule　当日のスケジュール] 6:00 - 6:30 Entry opens 入場開始 6:30 - 6:45 Japanese time　日本語タイム 6:45 - 7:00 English time　英語タイム 7:00 Announcement from staff members, crowd shuffle, find different partner/group スタッフからのお知らせ、注意喚起等。違うパートナーを探す時間 7:00 - 7:15 Japanese time　日本語タイム 7:15 - 7:30 English time　英語タイム 7:30 - 8:00 Socializing time　社交タイム 💡メルボルン最大の日英ランエク【会場変更のお知らせ🎊】 長すぎたロックダウンを終え、新しく皆が楽しめる場所を提供したいと始まった私たちMELLIFE🇦🇺🇯🇵 初回は30名ほど集まる小さなコミュニティでしたが、結成から半年が経ち、あっという間に毎回200人を超える方々に参加頂けるメルボルン最大の日英ランエクグループに成長する事が出来ました😊 今後のMELLIFE が更に成長して、より楽しい時間を提供するために次回のイベントから会場を変更し、最大４００名ほどの大きな会場へ移る事を決めました🥳 今回からはメルボルン市内でもとても有名でおしゃれな会場、The Cornerstoneで開催を決定いたしました。 ぜひ次回のイベントからもMELLIFE をよろしくお願い致します😆🤲 メルライフ一同 日本語を学びたい世界の方が集まるので、英語が得意でなくても、コミュニケーションが取れます😆(日本語、英語喋れる人も) お互いの得意な言葉を教え合って一気に語学上達しちゃいましょう✨ メルボルンで新しい友達が出来るチャンスです🌍 ぜひ参加表明をお願いします！ 途中参加の方も受け付けております！ [下記を必ずお読みください] メルライフが主催するイベントはどのような方も歓迎しています。しかし、"お酒などの強要・いじめ・ハラスメント・暴言"　など他のメンバーが不愉快に感じる行為は絶対におやめください。このルールを守れない方は積極的に処置をとらせていただきますので、これらを経験した、または見つけ次第メルライフスタッフにいつでも言いつけをお願いいたします。メルライフを　”いつでも気軽に来れて安全なコミュニティ”　をモットーにするため、皆様のご協力をお願いいたします。 Social event: JAP/ENG language exchange at a fancy venue with great vibes! FREE ENTRY!!!! ✨️ Thursday from 6pm\~✨️ Do you want an opportunity to have a conversation and make friends in person? Say no more! We are organising a language exchange event at a trendy venue near the CBD!!! Feel free to join at any time throughout the event, but good things may happen to those who come in early ;) We had WHOPPING 🎉250+ PEOPLE🎉 on previous events and we've tried to reserved enough space to fit everyone wishing to attend this time as well! 🔥ENROLL EARLY TO SECURE YOUR SPOT🔥 See you guys then👋👋👋 PLEASE READ BELOW (Everyone is welcomed to MELLIFE events. However, we ask that all attendees treat each other with respect and be polite. Our community does not tolerate innappropriate behaviour or any form of HARRASMENT!!!!! When you see or experience any, please call it out or reach out to Mellife staff members ASAP so we can address this and keep the community a safe space.)

**🙋‍♀️**Welcome to our THURSDAY Social + language ​exchange meetup. Meet people from many countries and make new friends. 👉We always have between 250 - 350 people attending our THURSDAY event since this event is listed in 3 different meetup groups. 👉This is a great opportunity to learn to speak English with native and non-native speakers. Many English speakers, Europeans, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, and other Asians attend our fun and friendly party. 👉It is suitable for international students, working holiday people, professional ex-pats, and local Australians. 🍺: Discounted 15% house beers and wines 🍸: Extra cost for cocktails and spirit 🍲: Food available is to purchase at the bar with 15% discount on menu. 👉**Fee** of **$4.50** to be paid at the entrance OR you can buy anything from the bar. No Limited numbers but RSVP is a must. 🆔 Please carry a Photo ID as you may be asked at the entrance. 👉**Location**: Diesel bar & Eatery. we book the whole Second floor, Capacity of 500 people. and the welcoming table is at the door entrance. No entry from Melbourne Central. only from 202 Little Lonsdale St.

**Only ticket holders purchased prior to the event time will be accepted. Get your ticket now so that you don't miss out on the day.** **Singles Dating Walk – The tan track walking circuit around the Botanical Gardens.** If you are lost, please message Kris at 0422467134 We will meet at 11:00 am and depart at 11:15am, so please try to arrive at 10:45 am to make sure that you don't miss us. This is a ticketed event. Tickets are purchased through Eventbrite. It is necessary for this to be a paid event as it assures us of the numbers that are attending and also helps you commit to attending as well. If you get in early a $9 Early bird ticket are available. **Don't miss out!** Tickets will be monitored and released according to demand and guided to maintain gender balance. **[Tickets here!](https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1980351355213?aff=oddtdtcreator)** Step into nature and open your heart to new possibilities. Our *Singles Dating Walk* offers a refreshing way to meet like-minded people while strolling along the beautiful Tan track walking circuit. Throughout the walk, you’ll be gently guided to connect with someone new every so often, creating opportunities to meet a variety of potential matches in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. To make conversations flow with ease, we’ll provide thoughtful dating questions designed to inspire connection and meaningful dialogue. This event is ideal for singles who are ready to move beyond apps and experience the magic of face-to-face chemistry in a natural, uplifting setting. By the end of the walk, you’ll have shared genuine moments, discovered new connections, and perhaps even taken the first steps toward something special.

**Meet new people in a relaxed, inclusive and welcoming space! 🤗** **(FREE EVENT).** Join us as we head north to what once was a Morris Minor factory and is now an enormous beer garden, food truck park (the largest in Australia), and games arcade all rolled into one. 🍔🍻👾 **Welcome to Thornbury** hosts a rotating list of food trucks from around Melbourne, including the likes of Mr Burger and CDMX Tacos, and offers a super relaxed and dog-friendly outdoor space. 😎🐶 Come along and enjoy some sunset sips and mingles on a late Sunday arvo while meeting some new people. 🎉🥂 If you fancy yourself good with a joystick, you can also challenge your new mates to a few rounds of arcade racing 🏎️. Or otherwise, just have a fun night out where your next burrito is only a few steps away. 🌯 We will provide an update as to where exactly our group will be located on the day. **Coming alone? No worries!** Most people attend our events solo 👍 Don't be afraid to talk to a someone new. Just remember, we are all there for the same reason – to meet new people and have fun! Check out Melbourne Mingle on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/melbourne_mingle) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567494869532) 👀

### Looking for something more real than dating apps? Meet someone you actually click with. No apps. No Swiping! NOTE: THIS IS A TICKETED EVENT. LINK TO BUY BELOW 👇 . RSVP ON MEETUP DOESN’T GUARANTEE YOUR SPOT. This is a curated, in-person dating experience for singles who want **genuine connection**, not endless swiping or forced small talk. You’ll meet a small number of people through **intentional, personality-based matching**, so the conversations feel natural and the chemistry has room to build. This is not speed dating. This is not a loud mixer. Unlike speed dating, this experience isn’t about racing through conversations or meeting as many people as possible. It’s about meeting the *right* people, with enough time and structure for genuine connection to unfold. ### **How it works** 1. **Before the event** You’ll complete a short personality quiz (5–7 minutes). 2. **At the event** You’ll have a series of guided one-on-one conversations with thoughtfully matched men/women in a comfortable, hosted setting. 3. **After the event** You’ll privately submit your matches. Mutual matches receive each other’s contact details so you can take it forward naturally. **Spots are limited** to keep matches intentional. Book early to secure your place **Tickets :** https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/personality-matched-dating-event-27-42yrs-singles-event-tickets-1980604739091?aff=oddtdtcreator

**Want to meet new people in an inclusive and welcoming space?** 🤗 Let’s make the most of the sunnier days and gather for an afternoon coffee in **Fitzroy Gardens**. 🌸 We will gather just outside the **Kere Kere Green Cafe & Visitors Centre** in large grassy area (to the left of the building when you are facing the entrance). You can go inside the cafe any time before or during the event to purchase a coffee and/or some yummy snacks. Please feel free to bring a picnic blanket if you prefer to sit down, but I find that standing allows you a bit more freedom to move around and mingle. And mingle we shall! This is a great opportunity to socialise with other attendees who all there for the same reason as you: to have conversations and meet new people! If it's your first time and you're a bit shy, feel free to find me (Annette) and say hello and I will help you on your way. 🤗 If it happens to be a bit rainy or drizzly we can use the sheltered section in front of the cafe entrance. Please note that in the event of extreme weather (eg. lots of rain, strong winds) this event will be postponed, so please check for any updates (in the comments section of the event page) prior to the event. **Location & Directions:** We will be located in the grassy area left of the Kere Kere Green Cafe & Visitors Centre, under the large tree. If you haven't been to this event before, its best to use the map provided on this page (click on it to open in your apps) to find the location. Otherwise you can manually type 'KereKere Green' into your Google maps. The other landmark to look out for is 'Cook's Cottage' which you can see in the background of the photo I have uploaded. **Parking advice:** There is metered parking on the surrounding streets but hard to find a free spot on weekends. You can try your luck getting a 2hr free spot on the streets coming off Clarendon St. But, I would highly recommend catching a tram there rather than driving. See you all there! Check us out on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/melbourne_mingle) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567494869532) 👀

**Single? 💔** **Over Dating Apps?** **Instantly Get The Dates!** **Meet Someone Today** ❤ . . **Book Through Link to Participate** 👇 [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/) . . **Want To Meet Someone?** All your friends in relationships? Are you better at talking in person? . . **Get 10 Fun Dates in 1 Night** Easily Meet New People Find someone to share your life ♥ Popular with professionals & everyday people . . **In Person Meetup🔥** Easily chat one on one See what they're like Be introduced up to 12 singles . . **Simply Book & Turn Up** Our Host Introduces You And pairs you on a new date every 6mins No pressure simply say hi 👋 . . **Click below to Be Matched (limited places)** [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/) . . **Host Rotates the Guys** 🧊 Not approaching strangers Get paired & meet each other So there's no fear of rejection . . **Be Automatically Matched** With a new date every 6mins No swiping, no messing around Instantly meet, chat in person, repeat ✅ . . **Just Fun 6min Dates** So there's no pressure Message your favorites after the event Find friends, connection & romance . . **Equally Booked Ratios 50:50** (we advertise everywhere not just on Meetup) There's plenty of people to meet 50-80 attendees at each event! Most book early, so don't miss out . . **If It's Your First Time?** We're all in the same boat ⛵ Simply book & turn up, it's easy Most come alone, or bring a friend . . **Must click below to Attend (limited places)** [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/event-34-55yrs-7-feb-2026/) . . **Still Unsure? 😕** We Get It... Why not take a chance? You meet around 12 singles Eventually you'll find someone . . **It's Okay to Feel Nervous** It's easy once the first chat starts Worst case, you'll make new friends . . **You Enjoy Fun Chats 🔥** Builds Confidence Meeting People They're only one 6min chat away... Book now & find your someone today . . **Find Real Connections** Have Plans for Your Weekends Actually meet without 1 million DMs Makes friends & builds your social circle ♥ . . **Most Book Early, Don't Miss Out** Balanced ratios means limited places Venues have fixed capacity - not endless . . **What Are You Waiting For?** Most book early, so don't miss out Must book through Link to attend Book now and find your someone today . . **View all Melbourne events below** 👇 [https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/](https://speeddatingsocial.au/speed-dating-melbourne/)

**—— Details ——** We will meet at the starting point, take round trip around the Tan and a short stroll inside the botanical garden. BYO coffee/ water bottle. Dress for outdoor walk. Come along & simply say, "Hi, it's my first time joining the group event." or ask the organiser to introduce you. You can take it slow and start from there. If you enjoy the conversations, take the initative to invite others to hang out over a bite/ drink after. **\-\-\- Running Late \-\-\-** If you are running late, please message at least 30 mins in advance. We will wait up to 15 mins before heading off. We won't be able to keep track of messages once we start. **\-\-\- RSVP / Change of Plan \-\-\-** Change of plan or decide not to attend is absolutely okay. Please do update your RSVP to "NO", so others can have the opportunity to attend. **\-\-\- Intro \-\-\-** Kudos to Friends….Expand Your Social Circle Meetup group is a community of individuals who prefer to take it slow to get to know each other overtime in Melbourne. Join us on a fun journey as we explore cafes, restaurants and bars, including drinks, meals, outings, chilling, cultural exchange, etc. Above all, we’d like to celebrate the importance of friendships. So if you are looking to expand your social circle and explore new adventures and venues in Melbourne, come join us! **\-\-\- WhatsApp Group \-\-\-** We use WhatsApp for more fluid communication, including ideas, interest groups, questions etc. Please let the organizer know if you would like to be added to the WhatsApp Group at the event. We will send an invite to attendees to the group. (give us some time) **\-\-\- Rules \-\-\-** Admin will only add members to the group with a clear profile picture. (No hidden behind sunglasses, masks, drawings) **You might be removed from the group in the case of…** * no show * without a clear profile picture * anti-social behaviour (i.e. acts rude / disrespectful regularly) * take advantage of individuals for personal gain(s) **\-\-\- Privacy \-\-\-** Do not disclose your contact number in this post comment. We will delete your comment/info as soon as we see it to protect your privacy.

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

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

Coffee and conversation at [The Roosevelt Coffeehouse](https://www.olentangybrew.com/roosevelt-coffee), located at Olentangy River Brewing. They will also have a Venezuelan [food truck](https://www.olentangybrew.com/eventsandfood) that always gets good reviews.

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.

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

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

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!