Sports and Socials

Playing Beachsoccer at Sportcentre Heerenschürli. (For every Level) Please pay 6Fr before the event via Twint to +41791231674. Write the name and the date of the event, so i know who paid. Its for renting the field and for organising. _______________

Playing Beachsoccer at Sportcentre Heerenschürli. (For every Level) We play 5vs5 with exchange players. Please pay 6Fr before the event via Twint to +41791231674. Write the name and the date of the event, so i know who paid. Its for renting the field and for organising. Don't worry about the low player cap – folks from other groups will be joining too. 12 people would be ideal :) Event will take place if we are at least 8 players.

**Join me for a beautiful run alongside the Werenbach.** Start in front of the Opera, run until "Zollikerberg, Trichtenhausermühle" and back. The track is around 5K one way, has just under 200m elevation and can be run – go and back – in a little bit over an hour... at least that's how long it takes me. I will only go, if it is not raining. *Please be on time.* Join me for some recharging forest and river vibes. Escape the city but without having to go far. See you there Max

**🇺🇸Jogging Group – Easy & Social Runs in Zurich** **Beginner-friendly · relaxed · no pressure** **Details** * **Day:Monday** * **Meet time: 19:00** * **Pace:8-9min/km** * **Distance:flexible, approx. 3–8km** * **Level:beginner-friendly / relaxed** * **Vibe:social, supportive, no competition** * **Dogs:welcome if comfortable jogging on a leash** **What to expect** * **Easy, social jogging together** * **Friendly chats during the run and after** * **Around 45 minutes of movement, with hellos before and goodbyes after** * **Come ready to run, or leave bags in a locker at HB** **This is not a training session or performance run.** **It’s about showing up and moving together.** **No special gear needed — just comfortable shoes and a good mood.** **Whatsapp Group: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GjxtqN7zL9F5bKtJSZvFFJ** **🇩🇪** **Jogginggruppe – Locker & gemeinsam laufen in Zürich** **Anfängerfreundlich · entspannt · kein Leistungsdruck** **Details** **Tag:** **Montag** **Treffzeit:** **19:00 Uhr** **Tempo:** **8–9 Min./km** **Distanz:** **flexibel, ca. 3–8 km** **Level:** **anfängerfreundlich / entspannt** **Atmosphäre:** **sozial, unterstützend, kein Wettbewerb** **Hunde:** **willkommen, wenn sie entspannt an der Leine joggen können** **Was dich erwartet** * **Lockeres, gemeinsames Joggen** * **Freundliche Gespräche während und nach dem Lauf** * **Etwa 45 Minuten Bewegung, mit Begrüssung davor und Verabschiedung danach** * **Komm bereit zum Laufen oder deponiere deine Tasche in einem Schliessfach am HB** **Dies ist kein Training oder leistungsorientierter Lauf.** **Es geht darum, gemeinsam zu kommen und sich zu bewegen.** **Keine spezielle Ausrüstung nötig — nur bequeme Schuhe und gute Laune.** **WhatsApp Gruppe: https://chat.whatsapp.com/GjxtqN7zL9F5bKtJSZvFFJ**

**Yoga. Pause & Connect** is a welcoming evening in Zurich for people who enjoy an active and **mindful lifestyle** and value **meaningful connections**. We begin with a **Hatha Yoga** practice designed to help you recharge, release tension, and clear your mind after the day. Afterwards, stay for **relaxed networking time** — an opportunity to meet like-minded people and build genuine connections in a comfortable small-group setting. Networking takes place in the cozy chill area, where you can sit, unwind, and enjoy hot beverages or non-alcoholic drinks. 📍 **Location:** ANNTIN Wellbeing Studio https://maps.app.goo.gl/NpvNASsiANp6w7128 🗓 **Date:** Monday, 27 April 2026 ⏰ **Time:** 18:00 – 19:00 Yoga; 19:00 - 20:00 Networking 💰 **Cost:** 29 CHF (Yoga session - open level, beginners welcome). Spots limited to 16 participants – please reserve your spot with payment **TWINT +41 791977702**. Please sign up only if you are certain you will attend – no refunds policy. You are welcome to join **both parts of the evening**, but it’s also perfectly fine to come **only for the yoga practice or only for the networking part**. To stay up to date join the WhatsApp group 🌿 [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjcN8KKelJ7L5kNT40j6vT](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjcN8KKelJ7L5kNT40j6vT)

Join us for the weekly Language Exchange! 🚀 Language Exchange WhatsApp Chat https://chat.whatsapp.com/C36TAgOl8Ei5qsWMNPZpHU Join the weekly Language Exchange (every monday) to work on your language skills, socialize and meet cool and open people. 💡HOW DOES IT WORK💡 1. Come to the location (for Spring and Summer the event will take place on a outside)☀️🍹 2. The Event Host will greet you🤜🏽🤛🏾 3. Choose the language flag that interests you and speak the language of the flag🇪🇸🇬🇧🇵🇹🇮🇹🇩🇪🇨🇭🇫🇷 4. Start talking with people around the world and improve your language skill💪🏽💭

**Today's schedule**: **[https://www.instagram.com/p/DXRl8bOjGpH/](https://www.instagram.com/p/DXRl8bOjGpH/)** . ***Mostly outdoors event***, if rainy/cold we can go indoors . **❤️ WELCOME HOME** @ **Connection Space❤️** *Meet **new friends**. Reconnect with **old** ones. Feel at **home** — inspired by old traditional Greek cafés, where grandparents knew that the best connections happen over a drink and good company* . * **free** event. **No registration** needed - just **RSVP** below * **See** **[PHOTOS & VIDEOS](https://photos.app.goo.gl/o476bvQ6ZC8CGhG57)** of our previous events * **Join** our **WHATSAPP** with **zero-spam** promise (if link not work try opening with https://web.whatsapp.com/ ) **[https://chat.whatsapp.com/G01nWpon13VB0gebrqFmfx?mode=gi_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/G01nWpon13VB0gebrqFmfx?mode=gi_t)** * **Join** our **[INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/wearetheconnectionspace/)** for **latest info** on this event and **extra events** . . **Why? Offline fun meaningful connections** is what we all deeply desire and makes us truly happy and healthy (scientifically proven - read below)! . . **How?** We are not a "social drinks meetup" - instead we create **one** event to **make new friends** with many **free** and **fun** **optional** activities: * **mostly outdoors event**, weather allowing, if not we can go indoors * 19:00 - 00:00 join the fun and simply **talk to anyone** ! * **NEW** 20:00 **Food-truck**, crazy tasty Gyros 🙏 * 20:00 **Speed-friending** (separate room) guaranteed process to meet new people while having fun - with moderator * 20:30 **Slow-Friending** (separate room) more time & deeper connection * 21:00 **Playful games (team vs team)** (separate room) lets stop adults ok?! With moderator * **NEW** 22:00 **Hits dance party** * **New-comer area** (never was easier to spark a conversation, with ice-breakers, optional for first time attendees) * **Fun** social card/board **games** * **Mindful** card/board **games** * **Outdoors area -** beautiful & big * **4** **chill-out rooms** (if you prefer quietness) * **German-speaking** area (falls du nur Deutsch sprechen möchtest) . . . * We booked 100% of the location so its **safe to talk to everyone** * ***The event is inspired*** *by the [Swiss Stammtisch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stammtisch) and Greek village coffeeshops ("[Καφενείο](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kafenio)"), once vibrant [community hubs](https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+%5D(https://www.google.com/search?sca_esv=569660528&sxsrf=AM9HkKlXnclaLfgcockKtdr9qHdmD5jaGw:1696060562834&q=greek+)%CE%BA%CE%B1%CF%86%CE%B5%CE%BD%CE%B5%CE%B9%CE%BF&source=lnms&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwi52fX67dGBAxXnlf0HHZNiBHUQ0pQJegQICRAB&biw=1460&bih=913&dpr=2&udm=2) where people gathered daily. We innovate this concept with a modern twist. I, Christos, fondly remember visiting these with my grandfather and now revive this fading tradition with a modern twist. Hope you enjoy it ❤️* * 95% of people come **solo** \- you can too❤️ * Want to **host an activity** in 1 of our 4 private rooms? Workshops, games, connection activities, music, or any other ideas then send a message to Christos on 0768175380 * **Everyone is welcome**! Wir wollen gerne mehr **Schweizer/innen** dabei haben! Alle sind willkommen und die meisten können Deutsch sprechen. Not an expat event. **Everyone is welcome**! * The "**Connection Space**" meetup group is an independent meetup group and not associated any other group * **Testimonials** (scroll to "photos" section to read testimonials) *"The best event I know on Meetup to connect to new friends."* *"First participation, an evening to remember!"* *"So far in 7 years this is the first time I see a really good organised event!"* *"Mega schön" "Had a blast!"* *"I was positively surprised. They organized everything so well; I met some interesting, friendly people. I highly recommend it"* *"Great! Everything excellent, super organized... lots of people. Great atmosphere"* *"I am really grateful for the warm atmosphere, inspiring moments"* * We encourage no/low alcohol consumption and only allow responsible behaviours. . . . . . Want **more info** than our Summary above? Then please read below: . . . . . **WHY?** we ❤️ **uniting people** and building **community** while having **fun!** We truly believe that **fun meaningful offline connections** to new & existing friends makes us truly happy and healthy! Our community meets **every 2 Fridays** in a **homey,** caring and **welcoming** "come as you are" environment ! . **WHAT is this event?** We are not a "party or drinks" meetup, nor we follow a "forced" process and agenda. Instead, we are a **Connection Community** inspired by Greek village cafes and Swiss Stammtisch — a welcoming environment where neighbours gathered as equals to share stories and build lasting friendships. We meet in a "**fixed-rhythm**" every 2 Fridays in a **homey** & **lovingly-hosted space** so you can connect with new and familiar faces. We provide **several optional activities** to help you **connect** with others—so you're free to **explore what resonates** with you! Together these activities create a unique **Connection** **Event.** . . . . **TIPS on how to connect:** * **Look out for a good smile/vibe** in a person/group of 2-3 people and say "Hi my name is xxx, can I join?". * **Try something different** (person, game, table, activity) often until you find **fun** **quality connection.** We have a lot of activities * **Ask** **Support:** we understand going out to meet friends can be a stretch. We make this easy with a fun and safe event. Also you can ask for help from our clearly communicated (see photos of this event) "**People Connectors**" who can help you discreetly to connect with others * **Invest time**(not quickly just come by) as friendships are an investment * **Come back**: big turnaround, people come randomly at each event, so you never know who you ll meet . . **.** **Some final words:** * **Bravo** **to you** for the courage to go out to meet new people! We know **everyone is unique** \- thats why we got a big new\-comer area\, 4 co\-hosts welcoming and connecting you\, and many activities for you to **choose** from to find what **suits you**! * **Weather?** Event takes place rain or shine, with indoors rooms and outdoors area that is ultra rain-protected * **Coming late?** no problem, we got many people until closing at 00:00 so come whenever! * **Too many attendees?** no problem, we got the space! Also as per the "what" above: you define what makes the event meaningful for you! Furthermore, the co-organisers have one goal: to say hi and introduce you to the event and people (if you want to please ask)! Finally remember: you dont have to talk to everyone, focus in a few people! Less is more! If you dont know where to start look for a good smile or an activity more matching to you. From there keep on trying people and activities.. * **Why so many options above for connection?** We always have: a first-timer area, Fun social games, Mindful games, ice-breaker questions or simply just talk freely to anyone. Often we add: Speed-friending and a Music jam. We believe **you are unique** and each of us prefers different ways of connection. Also we want to provide an opportunity for everyone to try something new * **Easy and Safe:** We have the whole location reserved for us so its safe to open up and meet new friends (unlike bars in Zürich where people find it strange if strangers talk to them). Christos and volunteers will also help with connection. Read more info below. * **Christos** (see [PHOTO](https://photos.app.goo.gl/pdtVaVGCyDEJ28uE8)) and our co-organisers will be wearing name budges and will aim to **welcome** **everyone.** * more info via our **[LINKS](http://linktr.ee/connectionspace)** * Yes YOU are **good** & **courageous** for looking for new fun connections! * Everyone is in same situation and you ll be surprised how **friendly people** are ❤️ * Come **early** though **later** also ok as many people there **until 00:00** * **It works**! We heard of many new friendships, living together and even getting a new job * **Mindful Connection Games:** from [The School of Life](https://www.theschooloflife.com/shop/?_product_type=games-card-sets) available: Confessions Game, The Friendship Game, Connection Game, The Loser Game, Games for grown-ups and three sets of "100 questions" (Conversation Toolkit & Careers & Relationships) * **Fun Social Games:** bring your own **board/card games** or choose from: Cards against humanity, Exploding Kittens, Codenames, Debatable, Sotally Tober, Taboo, Mafia, Uno, Monopoly and more. . . . . ``` Disclaimer & participation terms (Connection Space): By registering for and/or attending this event (“Event”), you agree: Registration required. Follow organizer/venue instructions; we may refuse entry or remove anyone for safety/behavior.You attend voluntarily and at your own risk; risks include injury/illness, conflicts/harassment, emotional distress, and property loss/damage.To the maximum extent permitted by law, Connection Space/organizers/staff/venue/partners aren’t liable for injury, loss, theft, damage, or costs; this doesn’t limit liability where unlawful (e.g., gross negligence/intent).Zero tolerance for violence, threats, harassment/discrimination, unwanted touching, weapons, illegal drugs, or unsafe/excessively intoxicated behavior. Report issues; we may remove participants and contact security/police/emergency services.You’re responsible for your health/fitness, alcohol use, transport home, allergies/diet; no allergen-free guarantee.You’re responsible for your belongings and any damage you cause.Photos/video/audio may be recorded and used for marketing by Connection Space/partners; opt out by telling us at check-in (we’ll try, but can’t guarantee exclusion from background footage).You must follow third-party venue rules; we may change schedule/location/format for safety or operational reasons. Finally, the organisers have the right to refuse entry with and without a ticket as the organizers see fit. In case of a ticket purchase a full refund will be made in that case. ```

Join us for an amazing day trip to the beautiful town of Gruyères ☀️💐🧀. Info: 📅 Date: Sunday, 03. May 2026 🚌 Bus departure: 9:00am sharp (Meeting at 8:50) 📍Meeting Point: Zurich HB Bus station/Sihlquai 🏠 Return: Arrive back in Zurich 19:00/19:30 💸Cost: 34.50 return (Zurich- Gruyeres-Zurich) 💺 To book your seat on the rented bus please follow this link (Limited Space) [Link](https://buytickets.at/zurichtogether/2125616) Join the WhatsApp Chat once you have purchased your ticket: [Link](https://chat.whatsapp.com/BXBOE1KltOQDf02QVByEuO/) What is the plan when we arrive? Option 1 on arrival: Gruyères Cheese Factory + Gruyère Ville / Castle Option 2 on arrival Gruyère Ville / Castle ⚠️Please Note⚠️ Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. They will be voided if not used. Please remember that each participant is responsible for their own safety during the trip. The organizer/Zurich Together will not be held liable for any inconveniences that may occur during the event.

Zurich's funniest, coolest pub quiz is back ! Zurich Together.... We know you can drink. We know you can party. But how smart are you ? This is a unique Pub Quiz for people who don't like Pub Quizzes ! The questions are \*fun\*, and I really try to make sure all teams have the same chance of winning. Have a look at the Meetup images to see some of the previous questions I've set. These are not your boring typical "How many bones are there in the human body?" questions ! Lady Hamiltons has air conditioning, unlimited Chicken Wings for 20 CHF and a Happy Hour on drinks (5.50 CHF for a 5 dl beer !!) until 7.30pm. We usual get loads of newcomers, lots of cool people, and when you arrive, I make sure everyone gets added to a team, so it's really easy way to meet others in our group. Most of our members come along alone, and I'll make sure you are added to one of the quiz teams. It's fun, free to join, you'll meet cool people, and you'll get to debate about whether Moscow really is a city in Europe, and try to remember Nicholas Cage movie names from the 1980s. What's not to like ? The quiz starts at 7.30pm, but I recommend getting there around 7pm, so you can meet the others, find a team, and make the most out of the Happy Hour prices! There are voucher prizes for the three best teams, which can be spent at Lady Hamiltons. 1st prize: 150 CHF voucher 2nd prize: 100 CHF voucher 3rd prize: 50 CHF voucher Maximum participants per team: 6. My last few Pub Quizzes have been full... if you are planning on coming with some friends, please reserve a table in advance.

**Unique this time: Beer Pong + Latin Night!** Let's celebrate this unique nightlife Tour through the bars and pubs of Zurich! This time, we are bringing the heat with our special **Latina Night** theme. Join us for an unforgettable night of bar-hopping where Swiss charm meets Latin passion! Get ready to meet new people and spend a fantastic time with our Pub Crawl led by the Red Hosts. **What to expect**: A fun night with a group of expats and locals that would like to socialize and spend the night together. Tour-guides will take you to 3 different venues, organize some games, distribute neon glow sticks and make the night entertaining :) **When**: Every Saturday - Meet @ 9pm **Where**: 2.Akt Zürich **Price**: from 25.- incl. shots, nachos, club entrance **Tickets**: https://tinyurl.com/PC-02-05-26 (pls buy tickets in advance) **WhatsApp Group**:[https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dttaz9sydMZ0tSqX2MgVjb](https://chat.whatsapp.com/Dttaz9sydMZ0tSqX2MgVjb) (Join for updates & pics) **Group size**: 35 people in average **Free Language Exchange for Pub Crawl ticket-holders:** If you come 1 hour earlier, you can participate to the Language Exchange. We encourage you to join both to have more time getting into the atmosphere and for the ease to meet new people. Looking forward to seeing you all again!! The Red Hosts Sébastien, Fernando, Eliseo More information: [https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/](https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/) Event pictures? Follow us on [IG](https://www.instagram.com/pubcrawlzurich) and [FB](https://www.facebook.com/pubcrawlzurich)

Join the Language Exchange to meet new people, practice your foreign languages and spend a good time together. We will serve free tapas such as Bruschetta, Wedges, Nachos or similar. **How it works**: Choose the country flag sticker of the languages that you speak or want to practice! Seat on the right language table and start your conversation with our conversation topic cards. Average group size: 25 participants **When**: Every Saturday, 20:00 - 22:00 **Where**: 2.Akt Zürich **Price**: 10.- incl. Snacks **Tickets**: https://tinyurl.com/LX-02-05-26 (please buy ticket online) **WhatsApp Group**: https://chat.whatsapp.com/8jkvEUJ5jLp75fYglQFCNJ (join for updates & pics) **After the Language Exchange:** Pub Crawl (optional) For those who want to continue the night, we have a Bar Tour starting from the same place at 10PM. Watch [this video](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VrBFWgXQNhw) to know what expect! Language Exchange participant get a 10fr discount when buying the combo-ticket online. Your Event Hosts Didem, Sébastien & Katja, Fernando More info: [https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange](https://www.pubcrawlzurich.com/languageexchange) Event pictures? Follow us on [IG](https://www.instagram.com/languageexchangezurich) and [FB](https://www.facebook.com/zurichlanguageexchange)

🔥 One-day training in Zürich - May 2nd Feeling stuck or ready for more in life? ELEVATE is a practical, interactive one-day experience for ambitious people who want clarity, direction, and momentum. You will not just listen — you will take part in powerful exercises, connect with like-minded people, and leave with real insights and a clear next step. 📍GZ Riesbach, Zürich 📅 May 2, 2026 — 10:00 to 19:00 🎟️ Early Bird: 99 CHF (normally 199 CHF) 🎁 Zürich Together members: use coupon code [Elevate-Together] for −25 CHF ✅ Full refund if not satisfied Only 40 seats. 👉 Learn more: www.elevatelife.ch 👉 Get your ticket: https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/courses-seminars/coaching/elevate-7427697923368960257.html

**Every 4th Tuesday in Oerlikon \| Explore 6\-7 curated tables of underplayed treasures** **🎟️ [\[Get Your Ticket - CHF 5\]](https://eventfrog.ch/Strangergames)** * **🎲 6-7 Curated Tables:** Hidden gems & unique games you rarely see. * **🎮 Game Masters:** At every table explaining the rules (**no manuals needed!**). * **🧩 Diverse Genres:** Euro, abstract, thematic, quirky. * **🕢 Timing:** Arrive by **19:30** to browse & choose your table. **🔄 HOW IT WORKS:** Browse tables → Pick your game → Game Master explains → Play & discover! **🤔 WHY ZFG?** Tired of playing the same games? **Stranger Games** spotlights brilliant, underplayed titles that deserve more love. ZFG is Zurich's most vibrant non-profit gaming community — no cliques, just exploration and friends. **80% come solo** and find their table immediately. **🌐 See our 80+ game collection: [Website](https://zurichfungamers.com/list-of-games)** **🎟️ [\[Secure Your Spot - CHF 5\]](https://eventfrog.ch/Strangergames)**[ ](https://eventfrog.ch/Strangergames)*(Regular? See our Annual Legends Pass option on DOPI and Ladies night Listings)* 📲 **Join Switzerland's biggest board gaming WhatsApp for updates:** **[Whatsapp](https://chat.whatsapp.com/GhVuGiUwPpi3BkhskOUJgp)** 👉 **Official [Website](https://zurichfungamers.com/)** 📲 **Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/zurichfungamers/)** **🎟️ [\[Reserve Your Ticket\]](https://eventfrog.ch/Strangergames)**

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

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

We’re bringing back Adult Field Day. Last year was a good mix of competition and just hanging out, so we’re doing it again with some new games mixed in. Think team-based challenges, simple races, and a few things inspired by game shows. You don’t need to be athletic. Most of the fun is just being part of a team and getting to know people you wouldn’t normally talk to. The goal isn’t really winning. It’s meeting people, laughing a bit, and leaving knowing a few more names than when you showed up. If you stick around after, we’ll have a potluck, a bonfire, and a couple comedians in the evening. Bring: * Something to share for the potluck * Clothes you can move around in A small contribution helps keep events sustainable and ensures those who RSVP actually show up. Include your Meetup name + event name in the note. Please send $2 per person to guarantee your spot. Venmo (preferred) or PayPal @WiseUnlimitedLLC Actual links in comments below! Include your Meetup name + event name in the note.

We practice, dance, and enjoy a BYOB bottle of your favorite wine at the Dublin Ballroom off Sawmill, North, and “milonga” is a social event for tango dancing where dancers socialize. A “*practica*” is an informal social event for tango dancing where dancers focus on practicing the dance; while a “*practilonga*” combines the relaxed atmosphere of a “*practica*” with the format of a “milonga.” We are doing it all! ***Cost is $10 payable to the Teacher.*** *Cost is for the cost of the venue and covers some snacks.* We have had fun doing this event in the past. Please arrive promptly as lessons begin at 2pm. Don't worry about bringing a partner as there will be others at the event from outside the group that: a) might have a clue and b) won't step on your toes. The event is BYOB (similar to our Salsa events), so bring your favorite and a wine glass. We will likely find a place for dinner and drinks after the dance.

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.