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Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Check out southwest florida events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.
Discover all the southwest florida events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.
Absolutely! Find southwest florida events near your location here. Connect with your local community and discover events within your area.
Southwest Florida Events Today
Join in-person Southwest Florida events happening right now
Men of Unity and Community
**Men of Unity** is a safe, welcoming space for men to connect, share, and grow together. In this circle, we explore what it means to live with purpose, integrity, and spiritual awareness in todayβs world.
Through open dialogue, reflection, and mutual support, we learn to balance strength with compassion, confidence with humility, and action with mindfulness. Whether youβre seeking deeper spiritual connection, personal clarity, or simply a supportive brotherhood, this group invites you to bring your authentic self and grow in community.
This week the Men's of Group will meet at Scrambler's - the North Hamilton Road location:
5729 North Hamilton Road
Columbus, 43230
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations.
If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!).
**HOW IT WORKS**
**Step 1: Bring a topic**
Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event.
**Step 2: Circle up & share**
We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds.
**Step 3: Walk, talk & float**
We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!"
**Step 4: Feel more alive**
Two hours flies by. You're back where you started β but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times.
*For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)*
**HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC**
A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about.
Recent topics include:
* "What are you passionate about right now?"
* "What makes a good friend?"
* "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?"
* "How do you want to be remembered?"
* "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?"
Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter.
**WHAT TO EXPECT**
This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.*
But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here.
**FAQ**
* Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk!
* We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space.
* We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space.
* Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know.
* Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome β please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic!
**LOGISTICS**
* If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event.
* This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs.
* Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details.
* If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. π€ π
**IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...**
[The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up.
* This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).
Westerville Pride Festival
Westerville Pride Festival
Sat\. June 6\, 2026 \| 5 PM \- 8 PM
If you're thinking of attending, or being a sponsor, vendor, or volunteer, visit our website at https://www.westervillequeercollective.org/pride for more information!
Location and other info will be announced soon :)
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."
Losing Weight in Columbus - Saturday morning Metro Park at Scioto Audubon Park
Join the weight loss in Columbus group at the Scioto Audubon Park for an in person meeting. We'll meet to chat casually, talk about goals and enjoy one of Columbus's wonderful parks.
We'll meet at one of the outdoor shelters, which is covered in case of rain, is close to some walking trails, and there's also a climbing gym that people can try out (my favorite past time) if people are interested.
Let's meet and see where we can take things!
Southwest Florida Events This Week
Discover what is happening in the next few days
Franklin Park Conservatory / Columbus Brewing Company
**History**
The [Franklin Park Conservatory](https://www.fpconservatory.org/)βs roots trace back to 1852 when the Franklin County Agricultural Society purchased 88 acres of land to host the Ohio State Fair. After the fair moved to its permanent home, the city of Columbus transformed the grounds into Franklin Park in 1884. This transition shifted the space from a temporary event site to a dedicated public green space for the growing community. The park became a central hub for outdoor recreation and early civic gatherings in the neighborhood.
In 1895, the landmark Victorian-style Palm House opened its doors, drawing heavy inspiration from the Glass Palace of the 1893 Worldβs Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This iron and glass structure became an immediate icon, housing exotic plants that residents would otherwise never see in the Midwest. It remains the oldest part of the facility and serves as a primary link to the conservatoryβs 19th-century origins. For decades, it stood as a singular testament to grand horticultural architecture in Central Ohio.
A major turning point arrived in 1992 when Columbus hosted AmeriFlora '92, an international horticultural exhibition. This massive event prompted a $16 million renovation and expansion, adding significantly more greenhouse space and the Dorothy M. Davis Showhouse. The festival put the conservatory on the international map and fundamentally changed its scale and ambition. Following the event, the facility transitioned from a city-run park to a private, non-profit organization.
In 2003, the conservatoryβs identity was further defined through a long-term partnership with world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. After a successful exhibition, the Friends of the Conservatory purchased most of the glass installations, creating the largest permanent collection of Chihulyβs work in a botanical setting. These vibrant glass sculptures are now woven throughout the biomes, blending art with nature. This addition helped cement the conservatory as a premier cultural destination rather than just a botanical garden.
Recent years have seen the site expand beyond the glass walls to emphasize community engagement and outdoor education. The 2018 opening of the Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Childrenβs Garden added two acres of interactive landscape designed for hands-on learning. The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus also provides local residents with space to grow their own food and learn sustainable practices. Today, the conservatory balances its historic Victorian charm with modern commitments to local ecology and the Columbus community.
**Maps of the Conservatory**
Here is the [main map](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/franklin-park-zones-scaled.jpg) of the Conservatory grounds. Here's a [map of the areas](https://www.fpconservatory.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/ConstructionMap-2026.jpg) in which the Conservatory has ongoing construction (see below).
**Summary**
For this event, we'll explore Columbus's highly-rated and very popular Conservatory. As mentioned above, the Conservatory is doing renovations on parts of the facility. These renovations are scheduled to be ongoing until the Fall of next year.
Basically, no matter when you go to the Conservatory over the next 18 months, you're going to see some metaphorical orange barrels. So let's just go now.
**Tickets and pricing**
On the first Sunday of every month, the Conservatory is free for residents of Franklin County and the city of Columbus. You must bring an ID to receive this discount. (Yes, they do check.) Otherwise, tickets are $25.20.
Members of the Columbus Zoo (of which I am one) do get a discount on tickets, though I have never actually bought a ticket to the Conservatory (I've always gone on free days). I believe the discount is $4.
Parking is always free.
If you have additional questions about pricing or whether and for what you qualify, you can reach the Conservatory at 614-715-8000.
**Where we'll meet**
We will meet just outside the main entrance. I guarantee there's going to be a line. The Conservatory is always popular on free days, and especially in nice weather.
**Your GPS is stupid!**
Be careful simply typing "Franklin Park Conservatory" in your GPS and going where it tells you.
The only way to access the parking lot to the Conservatory is off of Broad Street. Unfortunately, since Google Maps is unable to find its way out of a wet paper bag, it has a tendency to want to take people to a mythical, non-existent Conservatory entrance on Nelson Road.
If your GPS does this, just drive to the north side of the Conservatory along Broad Street. Your GPS should then redirect you to the main Conservatory entrance. If your GPS doesn't, then throw your phone away\* and look for the big Conservatory sign on the south side of Broad Street between Nelson Road and Franklin Park West.
You also should be able to use the map pin I've provided, below, and it should properly direct you to where you need to drive.
\* Don't really do this.
**After the event**
After stopping to smell the roses, for those that are interested, we'll head to the nearby [Columbus Brewing Company Beer Hall](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/) for [drinks](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#draft-list) and [lunch](https://columbusbrewing.com/location/beer-hall/#food-menu).
The Beer Hall's actual address is [200 Kelton Ave, Columbus, OH 43205](https://www.google.com/maps/place/200+Kelton+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43205/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x883889a94ac4acad:0xadb2e60240dbc38b?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111) (it's literally just on the south side of the Conservatory). Be sure this is where your GPS is taking you when you use it, as the Brewing Company has a taproom on Harrison Avenue that is *not* what you want for this event.
We should be at the Beer Hall by 1 if you can't make the Conservatory and just want to join us for drinks.
Cape Coral Meet Singles on Zoom Tonight
**π¦ Speed Dating from Home β Meet Cape Coral Singles Live on Zoom**
Genuine conversations with real locals β all from your living room. We match you with compatible Cape Coral locals using a quick personality quiz. You'll chat one-on-one on Zoom in short timed rounds while a host guides the session.
**β
Grab your spot by RSVPing.** The host will send you a personality quiz and Zoom details directly after you RSVP. Don't leave it too late β places fill up.
---
π― **Perfect for:**
- People re-entering the dating scene after a break
- Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face
- Singles in Cape Coral who want to meet people from home
**How It Works**
1. **RSVP below** β Click RSVP to reserve your place.
2. **Check your Meetup messages** β The host will reach out with a personality quiz to match you with compatible Cape Coral singles.
3. **Complete the quiz** β A quick personality quiz so we can find your best matches.
4. **Log in on the night** β Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show.
5. **Chat & match** β Quick timed rounds with Cape Coral singles, then mutual matches sent out after.
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Live on Zoom β guided rounds from your home
- **Location:** From home β all you need is Wi-Fi and a webcam
- **Host:** Experienced host steering the session
- **Vibe:** Great energy, real people, authentic conversation
- **Privacy:** Contact info only shared when both match
- **Tech:** Zoom, webcam, and a stable connection
- **Rounds:** Multiple short one-on-one rounds
- **Matches:** Mutual matches sent out after the event
π‘ **Tip:** Good lighting and a clean background make a big difference.
**Frequently Asked Questions**
**Do I need anything besides Zoom?**
Just Zoom, a webcam, and Wi-Fi. That's it.
**How long are the chats?**
A few minutes each β just enough to get a sense of someone.
**What if I'm shy?**
The virtual setting and hosted rounds keep things comfortable for everyone.
---
β¨ Your next match could be one RSVP away. π₯° β¨
Tampa Earn Your Next Date at Home
**π Online Speed Dating β Real Tampa Locals, Live on Zoom**
Ditch the apps. Meet Tampa singles face-to-face on Zoom tonight. We match you with compatible Tampa locals using a quick personality quiz. You'll chat one-on-one on Zoom in short timed rounds while a host guides the session.
**β
RSVP here and we'll take care of the rest.** After you RSVP, the host will message you directly with the personality quiz and Zoom details. Spots are limited.
---
π― **Perfect for:**
- Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting
- Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations
- People re-entering the dating scene after a break
- Busy professionals who don't want to waste evenings
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Live on Zoom β guided rounds from your home
- **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable β no venue, no travel
- **Host:** Professional host keeping the evening smooth and relaxed
- **Vibe:** Casual, easy-going conversations with Tampa singles
- **Tech:** Zoom, webcam, and a stable connection
- **Duration:** Roughly 90 minutes
**How It Works**
1. **Grab your spot** β Hit RSVP above to join the list.
2. **Watch for a host message** β The host will send you a short personality quiz after your RSVP.
3. **Complete the quiz** β A quick personality quiz so we can find your best matches.
4. **Log in on the night** β Connect to the Zoom session from home. The host runs the show.
5. **Speed date** β One-on-one rounds with personality-matched Tampa locals. Matches shared afterwards.
β *"I was nervous but the host made it effortless. Met someone wonderful first try."* β Tampa single
**Frequently Asked Questions**
**Is my info private?**
Absolutely. Contact details are only exchanged on mutual match.
**How long are the chats?**
A few minutes each β just enough to get a sense of someone.
**What happens after?**
Mutual matches are sent out after the event.
**Do I need anything besides Zoom?**
Just Zoom, a webcam, and Wi-Fi. That's it.
---
β¨ Your next match could be one RSVP away. π¦ β¨
Creativity Circle: Paint Your Pride
Join us this Pride season to paint your own pride on rocks, paper, canvas, and yes- we are bringing back the bricks! Come create and paint with us. Seats and supplies limited! Come while you can for as long as you like! Westerville Public Library Meeting Room D.
Miami Scale Your Social Life from Home
**π Online Speed Dating β Real Miami Locals, Live on Zoom**
Speed dating from home β connect with real Miami singles on Zoom. Quick, hosted rounds on Zoom with Miami singles paired to your age group and personality. No awkward pauses β just natural conversation.
**β
RSVP here and we'll take care of the rest.** After you RSVP, the host will message you directly with the personality quiz and Zoom details. Spots are limited.
---
π― **Perfect for:**
- Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face
- Introverts who shine in one-on-one conversations
- Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Zoom video session β short timed rounds
- **Location:** From home β all you need is Wi-Fi and a webcam
- **Host:** Professional host keeping the evening smooth and relaxed
- **Vibe:** Great energy, real people, authentic conversation
**How It Works**
1. **RSVP below** β Click RSVP to reserve your place.
2. **The host will contact you** β After RSVP, you'll get a message with the personality quiz so we can pair you well.
3. **Answer the personality quiz** β Takes just a few minutes and makes the matching much better.
4. **Hop on Zoom** β You'll receive the Zoom link before the event. The host handles the rest.
5. **Chat & match** β Quick timed rounds with Miami singles, then mutual matches sent out after.
**Frequently Asked Questions**
**What if I'm shy?**
The virtual setting and hosted rounds keep things comfortable for everyone.
**Is my info private?**
Absolutely. Contact details are only exchanged on mutual match.
**When will the host contact me?**
Usually within a day or two of your RSVP, well before the event.
**Do I need anything besides Zoom?**
Just Zoom, a webcam, and Wi-Fi. That's it.
---
β¨ Real people, real conversations β all from your home. RSVP to join us. π β¨
Port St. Lucie Local Speed Dating on Zoom
**π₯° Online Speed Dating via Zoom β Connect with Port St. Lucie Singles Tonight!**
We pair you by personality and age so every conversation feels natural. It's simple: complete a short personality quiz, jump on Zoom, and meet Port St. Lucie singles in guided one-on-one rounds. Matches shared afterwards.
**β
Grab your spot by RSVPing.** The host will send you a personality quiz and Zoom details directly after you RSVP. Don't leave it too late β places fill up.
---
π― **Perfect for:**
- Singles who prefer a hosted, structured experience
- Busy professionals who don't want to waste evenings
- Singles in Port St. Lucie who want to meet people from home
- People re-entering the dating scene after a break
- Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Virtual on Zoom β hosted and well-structured
- **Location:** From home β all you need is Wi-Fi and a webcam
- **Host:** Professional host keeping the evening smooth and relaxed
- **Vibe:** Laid-back one-on-one chats with Port St. Lucie locals
- **Tech:** Zoom, webcam, and a stable connection
- **Duration:** Roughly 90 minutes
- **Matches:** Mutual matches sent out after the event
- **Rounds:** Multiple short one-on-one rounds
**How It Works**
1. **RSVP here** β Secure your spot on Meetup.
2. **Check your Meetup messages** β The host will reach out with a personality quiz to match you with compatible Port St. Lucie singles.
3. **Complete the quiz** β A quick personality quiz so we can find your best matches.
4. **Hop on Zoom** β You'll receive the Zoom link before the event. The host handles the rest.
5. **Chat & match** β Quick timed rounds with Port St. Lucie singles, then mutual matches sent out after.
**Frequently Asked Questions**
**Do I need experience?**
Not at all. The host walks you through everything.
**How long are the chats?**
A few minutes each β just enough to get a sense of someone.
**Do I need anything besides Zoom?**
Just Zoom, a webcam, and Wi-Fi. That's it.
---
β¨ Real people, real conversations β all from your home. RSVP to join us. β€οΈβπ₯ β¨
Southwest Florida Events Near You
Connect with your local Southwest Florida community
Westerville Queer Coffee Meetup
WQC has weekly Thursday night social nights at the Westerville Java Central. Come and grab a coffee and connect with the community: low stakes, chill environment, and tasty drinks. No registration is required; come as you are.
Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival
Now in its 26th year, [The Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/), in Gahanna, gathers world famous groups and performers at a single place for you to enjoy the best Blues & Jazz in Ohio. *SATURDAY NIGHT features: The Urban Jazz Coalition with Special Guest Brian Simpson, North Mississippi Allstars, The Deal Breakers & More.* The three-day cultural celebration features musicians on 3 stages, local food trucks and beverage stations, treats, artisans, and more. **Tickets are $15 for adults online.** Link to purchase tickets: [Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival Tickets](https://tickets.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/e/2026-creekside-blues-jazz-festival). $20 at the door. Military are free.
WHAT: Here's the festival [EVENT MAP](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Event-Map/). Also, here's the [SCHEDULE](https://www.creeksidebluesandjazz.com/Schedule/) map to help you determine who to see.
\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*\*
**Parking -** The Creekside Parking Garage will be open throughout the festival weekend. Entrance is located near the intersection of Mill and North Streets; accessible only by traveling south on Mill Street.
**Event parking rate is $5 and collected at entrance to garage. Cash ONLY is accepted at garage entrance for parking.** Although off street parking in the Creekside District is permitted, it is very limited and not recommended.
**Shuttle Service** pickup will be at the following location:
[AEP Ohio 700 Morrison Rd., Gahanna, OH](https://goo.gl/maps/K9GgvgEdxCHaXsKDA)
**Shuttle Service Hours:** Saturday: 1 PM - 12 AM
**BRING**: *Be sure to bring a **chair** since there is limited available seating. Also $ or paycard for food and drink.*
Microsoft Build - Columbus Edition!
We are bringing Microsoft Build sessions to Columbus Ohio!
The Central Ohio Azure Meetup and Central Ohio .NET Developer's Group (CONDG) are coming together to bring some of the labs and breakouts from Microsoft Build to your backyard. In this free, 1 day event, you are going to Build stuff with us!
And yes, there will be free food. So please RSVP for a head count!
Jacksonville Virtual Speed Dating in PJs
**π Speed Dating from Home β Meet Jacksonville Singles Live on Zoom**
We pair you by personality and age so every conversation feels natural. Each round is a brief one-on-one Zoom chat with a Jacksonville local paired by age and personality. A host keeps the pace comfortable.
**β
RSVP to secure your spot.** The host will reach out after your RSVP with a quick personality quiz to help us pair you with compatible Jacksonville singles.
---
π― **Perfect for:**
- Singles in Jacksonville who want to meet people from home
- Anyone curious about speed dating in a relaxed setting
- Anyone who likes connecting online before meeting face-to-face
**Event Details**
- **Format:** Hosted on Zoom β one-on-one video dates
- **Location:** Wherever you're comfortable β no venue, no travel
- **Host:** Experienced host steering the session
- **Vibe:** Laid-back one-on-one chats with Jacksonville locals
- **Rounds:** Multiple short one-on-one rounds
- **Privacy:** Contact info only shared when both match
**How It Works**
1. **RSVP here** β Secure your spot on Meetup.
2. **The host will contact you** β After RSVP, you'll get a message with the personality quiz so we can pair you well.
3. **Answer the personality quiz** β Takes just a few minutes and makes the matching much better.
4. **Hop on Zoom** β You'll receive the Zoom link before the event. The host handles the rest.
5. **Meet your matches** β Cycle through short chats, then see who you clicked with after the event.
π‘ **Tip:** Check your Zoom setup and pick a quiet, well-lit spot ahead of time.
**Frequently Asked Questions**
**What's the personality quiz for?**
It helps us match you with compatible people. The host will send it after your RSVP.
**How long are the chats?**
A few minutes each β just enough to get a sense of someone.
**How do I get the Zoom link?**
The host will message you directly after your RSVP with everything you need.
---
β¨ Speed dating from home β easy, fun, and personality matched. β¨ β¨


















