Sports and Recreation

Things to know before playing: Ladies and Gentlemen, boys and girls; We play Tuesday Night Football (outdoor only) . We play 90 minutes (kick off is at 20:30, and we meet at least 15 minutes before for a warm up phase). Post-Corona football matches are most likely between 14-16 and 28-32 players. If you would like to join please bring artificial turf shoes (like the ones for indoor turf) and shin pads (not mandatory but definitely recommendable). All I ask is that you come with a good mood, be respectful to everyone, and pay online using the link below. [Tuesday Night via FOOTxp football website](https://footballexperiences.net/kickaball/p/tuesdaynightfootball/) **Other methods for payments.** **Erste Bank Transfer**: **Sorin-Florian Brici** **AT27 2011 1829 5564 7001** **\*[Revolut](https://revolut.me/brici)** \- Recommended\! **\* [Wise](https://wise.com/pay/me/sorinb256)** \- Also recommended\! **\*[Paypal](https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/sorinSocial/)** \- Please use non\-Commercial product We play light: no sliding, hard tackling, fighting, screaming, & hopefully no injuries. We need to respect current regulations in Vienna, Austria. The main priorities are to have fun and being safe. The drinks are relatively free after the game in the local pub, served to those who have shown fantastic football fair-play skills. We will confirm the location, the pitches, and the dressing room numbers via our dedicated Football WhatsApp group/s. Keep an eye out for the group messages. See you all soon. Sorin SMS/ WhatsApp +43 6764276984 (please ask to be added to our football groups). We will probably need to confirm your presence if you are coming for the first or second time. Important management rule: **\> "No shows" are penalized with 10€ fee\. Please remove your name from the list at least SIX\!\!\! \(6\) HOURS before the event\.** Book a place via FootballExperiences.NET using this link [FOOTxp](https://footballexperiences.net/kickaball/) One small final note: Please avoid trying to take justice in your hands. If someone is talking bad, complaining, insulting someone, fouling on purpose or committing the usual football shenanigans, please let the organizers know. Measures will be taken, we assure you. Any misbehavior on your part, such as responding in an obscene way, fighting, or leaving the pitch is not a practical and diplomatic way of resolving the issues (it tends to create more tension and cause more problems). Let’s be respectful and mature and try to enjoy the game we all love. That’s why we’re all here. Get to know people from all over the world and have fun! Thank you. Sorin

The event is part of our WEEKLY MEETUP SERIES. ---- Hey Badminton Enthusiasts! This meet-up is for all levels: beginners, intermediates and experts. Everyone is welcome to join, test their skills and have some fun together! The organiser will reserve courts in advance - PLEASE ONLY REGISTER IF YOU REALLY PLAN ON COMING (OR CANCEL ASAP IF SOMETHING CAME UP). We are meeting at about 07:50 pm near the reception by the lounge area (next to the courts). Come a bit earlier so you have time to change into workout/sports clothes. The locker rooms are free to use. Also, bring clean indoor sports shoes, your racket and a water bottle with you. There is also a drinking fountain available if you need to replenish your bottle. The organiser will be at the club about 5 min. ahead of time and pay for everyone - please bring if possible exact change and pay the organiser after the event! The fee for this event is 6€. It is possible to rent rackets from the club, if necessary (3€). Sometimes members have spare rackets - please ask in the comment section below! If you are joining our events for the first time, WELCOME! Let the organizer know that you are new and they will find a place for you. Don't worry, we are an open and friendly group. We are sure you will develop connections with the people in our community in no time! Without further ado - see you at our next event! 2G rules apply: geimpft or genesen. We will adapt our events according to the official regulations.

Join as for IRP social and fun, on sand ,😎 for Beachvolleyball! Beachvolleyball 3vs3 and 4v4, 2 courts - We (aim to) play 4vs4, and everyone is on the court ( Not 3 vs3 and 1 Person waits) - We pllay 3 vs 3 on second court. we Reserve the right to adapt on the court Level and requests of Hosts and regular Players in the aim of maintaining good vibes, be inclusive and playfull. Games are social and fun, Not competitive! It is tended for welbeing, mindfulness, less devices, more fresh Air, Outdoor social and IRP conections. - We Play 2 Games in a row in the same Team comppsition (plus a small decisive If Teams want it); after that WE mixed with the Players on the other court. - please be mindful and announce asap if u don't come, you are late or the duration (in case u don't intend to play full time). bring in cash: aprox 8.5 Euros/Person to Cover the courts price. In case we are 4players/ court ( this is 2 vs2) then it is 12 Euros/person . Have a ☀️ and warm day!

-Outdoor Functional Training for All Fitness Levels- Join us as we combine healthy, balanced movement with fun, gamified ideas to give you our unique FUNctional training! And in case that doesn’t really tell you what to expect, just think short intervals of exercise combined together in a playful and interactive way to help you strengthen your body in a sustainable way while allowing you to meet new people (and often even forget how hard you’re working out). As a reminder for those nervous about their fitness level: Everything we do, we do with all fitness levels in mind; so the exercises are always adjustable to your level and you’re always strongly encouraged to take it at your own pace - I mean, we’re not called My Pace for nothing! How to find us: We meet and train behind the calisthenics workout station on the Zirkuswiese of the Prater. Here a link to the location on Google maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/QdRPEaYTiavZbmVW7 Cost: In the interest of inclusivity, we've decided to make our sessions donations based here, so you're invited to pay what you can afford. If that actually makes you more uncomfortable and doesn't make it easier to come, know that we've received donations from €2 to €20 and they all made us very happy, because our primary goal is to get people moving and to show them it can be fun all in all. The money is secondary. One other thing that’s useful to know: - In the case of bad weather, we do have a back-up location that will protect us from the rain. Should we need to move, we will change the location of this event here. Please feel free to check back here before any event where you suspect bad weather or, even better, simply get in touch with us! We’re available via WhatsApp message or email. --- If you'd like to know more about My Pace, feel free to visit our website at https://www.mypace.at

Wir spielen wieder Dienstag 20:30 und könnten noch ein paar Mitspieler brauchen. Organisation / Anmeldung über Whatsapp!

Hey folks, WE ARE BACK AGAIN! This Badminton meet-up is for ALL levels: beginners - advanced - experts. Everyone is welcome to join and test their skills and have some fun together. The organiser will reserve courts in advance - PLEASE ONLY REGISTER IF YOU REALLY PLAN TO COME (OR CANCEL ASAP IF SOMETHING CAME UP) SO WE HAVE CORRECT NUMBERS. Late cancelation (before 24 hours) or no show would be asked to pay. We are meeting at about 6:50 pm near the reception by the lounge. Come a bit earlier so you have time to change into workout/sports clothes. Also, bring clean indoor sports shoes and a water bottle with you. The organiser will be at the club about 10 min. ahead of time and pay for all - please pay the organiser after/before the event!! Cost is 22€ per court, the fee should be around 6€. It is possible to rent rackets from the club, if necessary (3€). Sometimes members have spare rackets - please ask. Enjoy!

We know that meeting new people in Vienna’s Meetup scene can feel a bit repetitive. While different hosts and formats exist, you often end up seeing the same faces. That’s why we’re shaking things up! We’ve teamed up with Mausen Bar to bring you an exciting new Board Game Night - one that goes beyond Meetup and expands your social circle even further! 📅 Every Tuesday (except some holidays/celebrations), 7-10PM 📍 Mausen Bar (Türkenstraße 33, 1090 Wien). Join us for an evening of fun, laughter, and great company. Whether you’re a board game enthusiast or just looking to meet new people in a relaxed setting, this is the perfect event for you! Plus, you can order delicious food and drinks right at the venue while you play. Come for the games, stay for the connections, and make Vienna feel even more like home. See you there! Please note that this free event is made possible through the generous support of the restaurant. In order to maintain a strong partnership and continue offering events like this at no cost, we kindly ask that all attendees support the venue by placing an order during their visit. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

**Women in AI Austria - Vienna Meet up - Summer Beach Edition** **Come, connect, learn, and get inspired.** **Please note:** As this is an outdoor event, the meetup will only take place in good weather. In case of rain or unfavorable weather conditions, the event will be cancelled. AI meets Urban Beach. Join our Women in AI community for a summer evening at Strandbar Herrmann. Expect inspiring conversations, new connections, and a relaxed atmosphere that brings smart minds together. Whether you are an experienced professional, a newcomer to the field, or simply curious about AI – we are very happy to welcome you! **When:** **July 2nd** \| Doors open at 6 PM **Where:** Strandbar Herrmann, Herrmannpark 1030 Vienna **What to expect:** * Get to know WAI Austria and members * Versatile discussions about AI, new technologies, and everything you are interested in :) * Great people and delicious drinks and food (**SELF PAYMENT** :) ) **We are very excited to meet you but** **please only register if you plan to come.** **Please cancel your registration to free up the spot for someone on the waiting list!**

\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Important:** This is a **registered event**. Attendance is only possible with a confirmed spot and unregistered guests may be refused entry. \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- Fridays in Vienna deserve a better ritual. ✨ **Friday Social Club** is the easy start to your weekend - a relaxed night made for genuine conversations and a great atmosphere. On **03 July** **\|** **from 7PM**, we’re meeting at **Drei Bögen**. Expect drinks, low background music and an open, friendly crowd - no business talk, no elevator pitches. Drop by for one drink or stay longer. Come alone or bring a friend - you’ll fit in either way. **Good to know:** * Please RSVP only if you’re coming. If plans change, update your RSVP. * Be respectful and inclusive - let’s keep the vibe great. Follow us on Instagram: **[@vienna.networking](https://www.instagram.com/vienna.networking/)**

✨ Rooftop coffee & conversations ☕🌇 ⭐️A casual evening to meet open-minded people living and building things in Vienna. ⭐️Just a group of interesting people, good coffee and conversations. Conversation topics can be anything:— life in Vienna— travel & moving abroad— culture & life experiences— favorite places, ideas, random thoughts—or whatever naturally comes up. ⭐️Free to join. Come for 20 minutes or stay the whole evening. Please register if you come and unregister if you don’t come. ✨Join our Instagram for more events https://www.instagram.com/vienna_friends?igsh=YjA2czVxNjF0cGJi&utm_source=qr

This session is for players with solid beach volleyball skills. No beginners, please. **🔔 Update 04.05.2026** *The sport center has split the booked courts, meaning they are not next to each other.* *Because of this, I canceled one court and will continue with two courts only (Court 7 and Court 8).* *As a result, we are changing the system to 2vs2 only.* *👉 Please join only if you have the mentioned skill level, so the games stay enjoyable for you and everyone else.* *Also, a personal note:* *I am not a fan of registering for sessions far in advance and then canceling on short notice or not at all.* *Therefore:* * *I will empty all current participation lists (move to waiting list)* * *Players will be manually added per upcoming session only* * *Please make sure your Meetup notification settings are correct, so you don’t miss the moment when you are moved to the participation list* 🏖️ **How We Play** * 2vs2 only * 2 courts: Court 7 & Court 8 * Sets to 15 points * Rotation after each set * Players rotate fairly across courts and teams ✅ **What We Expect From Players** * Solid and safe beach volleyball fundamentals * Ability to play 2vs2 at a consistent level * Good self‑organization on and off the court * Fair, reliable participation 💰 **Costs** €8–10 per person, depending on the number of participants. ❗ **Cancellations** * Cancellations within 24 hours of the event must be paid (unless a suitable replacement joins) * Waiting list: regulars are preferred, but once you are confirmed, you stay confirmed 🤝 **Fair Play** Respectful behavior only: * No insults * No disrespect * No arguments

⭐️Would you like to meet new friends?✨Welcome to Speed Friending in Vienna! Age 20-29/30-39. Please read the description attentively: Our next event is coming soon! Price for boys is 10€ and order a drink It is for free for girls just order a drink ✨if you’re not comfortable with the price, you are welcome to skip this event. Please register if you go and unregister if you don’t go How it works: • You’ll have a short conversations with different people. • After each round, you’ll switch to meet someone new. • You’ll note who you liked, and if there’s a match, we’ll connect you after the event. ‍‍ Age groups: The main groups are for ages 20-29 and 30-39 You are welcome)! Register today)✨ Join us on Instagram and don’t miss new events https://www.instagram.com/makegoodfriends?igsh=YjA2czVxNjF0cGJi&utm_source=qr

**How we play**? Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced Players are welcome. Number of courts depends on the number of players. * 4-5 players: one court * 8-10 players: two courts **Price** * 18-20 € for 2 hours depending on number of players * I use the money to cover the costs for the court, balls and rackets. * You can pay via Revolut, PayPal, instant Bank Transfer or Cash. I prefer transfer over cash. **Equipment** * I provide balls (usually Bullpadel Next) * If you need a racket, you can rent it from me for 2 € (limited number available). You can also rent a racket from the venue for 4 € **Cancellation** * Please cancel at least 10h before the event, to give people on the wait list the chance to jump in. Otherwise a late cancellation fee of 10 € must be paid. * Cancel at least 26h before the event in case the wait list is empty. Otherwise a late cancellation fee will be charged * Late Cancellation fees will be donated to Médecins Sans Frontières (Ärzte ohne Grenzen). * I understand that sometimes unexpected things can come up. However, not showing up and failing to let me know is considered disrespectful and goes against the community spirit. People doing uncommented no-shows have to pay the full event fee. **Important** * Playing competitive is allowed (Smashing balls, hitting balls close to opponent player etc.) * We still value fair play and sportsmanship. * Having fun together is way more important as winning. **Other information** * We are respectful and warm with each other. Our cultural and professional background is diverse * The host or regular players can ask misbehaving players to step out from the court * The venue has changing rooms and showers free of charge (for the lockers you have to bring your own padlock) * If you have questions, you can send me a message any time. I speak german too.

🎲 Board Game Picnic in Stadtpark Join us for a relaxed afternoon of board games! We'll be meeting in Stadtpark this Friday at 4:00 PM. The event ends at 7:00 PM, but feel free to stay as long as you like. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or just looking for a fun way to spend your Friday afternoon — everyone is welcome! Feel free to bring your own games if you want. We will meet close to the pin on the map - I'll share the exact location in the comments.

**Summary** The [Ohio State Fair](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/) is consistently ranked as one of the [best](https://www.realpropertymgt.com/expert-tips/top-5-state-fairs) ... [state](https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-state-fair/) ... [fairs](https://www.dispatch.com/story/entertainment/local/2025/08/06/ohio-state-fair-named-top-fair-nation-usa-today/85527343007/) ... [in](https://www.blueribbongroup.net/blue-ribbon-foodies/tag/what-are-the-best-state-fairs-in-the-united-states/) ... [America](https://614now.com/2025/explore-columbus/usa-today-names-the-ohio-state-fair-as-one-of-the-countrys-best-find-out-where-it-ranked-here). By [acreage](https://www.google.com/search?q=largest+state+fairs+in+us+by+acreage&client=firefox-b-1-d&sca_esv=5a1ec5f7868eb06c&prmd=ivns&sxsrf=AE3TifOrRyB0UF_zcJxuzJ2blALpROCfFA:1763485805100&source=lnms&fbs=AIIjpHxU7SXXniUZfeShr2fp4giZPH5QghoXViUOqdFyhkUfHhA90f6RZnLvcDKUWyhDavFJHvqNnhR_vnElk0C8uWstYqkR_Pamh3VQhx9plk87wYYnFhXCtQ6JPByPAvG0_LeyIQszFojQ7tWAfAvDzo6MwRJuWxS0jrzFWBkVvjkxbHuA6PTQnwEl88m-YBBItnTFmNlR9xZ9YLttetzKJB1GAWacLg&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiX3-rHmPyQAxU6_8kDHcKPH1gQ0pQJegQIBRAF&biw=1735&bih=926&dpr=1), it's one of the five largest fairs in the country. And a million people [visit](https://www.statenews.org/government-politics/2025-08-06/attendance-off-slightly-at-2025-ohio-state-fair-but-sales-of-champions-was-up-big) it each year. Last year's [attendees](https://www.10tv.com/article/news/local/nearly-1-million-visitors-2025-ohio-state-fair-fun-facts-statistics/530-e6c7db59-e9ca-469b-9d3e-ef39011aca00) came from each of Ohio's 88 counties, from all 50 states, and from as far away as 26 other countries including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Germany, India, Japan, Mexico, and others, according to Ticketmaster sales data. **Map of the Fair** Here is a [map of the grounds](https://cdn.saffire.com/images.ashx?t=ig&rid=OhioStateFair&i=map2025.jpg&cb=0508a2a3). **Directions, Parking, Tickets, Timing** Take exit 111 (17th Avenue) off of I-71. Turn west (toward the McDonald's). [Parking is $10](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours) whether you pay in advance or on-site. It's generally not too bad getting in and out of the fair. You generally get an excellent spot, too, early in the mornings. There are cops everywhere and they will let you know where to park. [Tickets will be $13](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/pricing-hours), but through July 26, you can buy them online for $9. You can also buy 3- and 12-day admission tickets in advance for $24 and $84, respectively. I've scheduled this meetup from 9 to 3, but you can obviously come late or leave early if you want. They will also stamp your hand for free same-day re-admission if you want. The fair is a big place. You will get plenty of steps in at this event, so be prepared to do some walking! **Outside Items** From the [FAQ](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/faqs): * *Bags* "Purses, backpacks, book bags, coolers, strollers, etc. are permitted, but are subject to search. Bag searches will also be conducted for guests entering concerts and events in the WCOL Celeste Center." * *Outside Food and Beverage* "You may bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages. Glass bottles and containers are not permitted on grounds." I like to bring a disposable plastic bottle of water with me and refill it on the grounds as I go. **What's New at the Fair** They've spent the last couple years doing major construction at the fair, and most if not all of it should be completed by the start of this year's fair. They've been massively overhauling what's located at the heart of the fairgrounds just north of Kiddleland and just west of the Midway, they're supposed to also have completed improvements to the Dairy Building. In the center of the fairgrounds, there's supposed to be a new food hall, which I would consider to be the centerpiece of the whole shebang. It's supposed to [include](https://www.ohioexpocenter.com/p/about/expo-2050-master-plan) "multi-purpose dining and event space and incubator kitchens on the first floor, and additional dining and event space on the second story." Furthermore, "both levels [will] include outdoor dining on a patio or balcony." A new "Town Square" and surrounding area will also feature a permanent "Ohio-themed carousel" that will also be "complete with ample shade and seating." The new Dairy Building will be air-conditioned and add public restrooms, a universal changing table, and other new amenities. Four hundred and sixty million dollars have been spent on these improvements and renovations, and I expect they will be very cool! **Where We'll Meet** At no later than 9 a.m., I'll be standing by the giant cardinal just inside Cardinal Gate 1, then we'll wander down to Tracey's (see below). If you come late, Tracey's is where you'll find us (DM me or drop a note in the comments if you need help finding us after you arrive). *Note: There's a smaller Tracey's booth near the main entrance. This is not the Tracey's location we'll be meeting at. You will have to walk down to the Bricker Marketplace to get to the correct Tracey's. There's more information on this, below, in the "What We'll Do" section.* If you want to come later in the day, drop me a note and I'll help you navigate to us or I'll come find you if that's feasible. **What We'll Do** This will be sort of a soft itinerary, depending on the interests of the group. The following is based on last year's [fair schedule](https://www.ohiostatefair.com/events), and might need to be changed depending on this year's schedule. But the overall fair schedule doesn't normally change that radically year-over-year. * 9:00 a.m. - *Tracey's* Tracey's is located at the northernmost part of the "WNCI Food Highway," just south of Brown Arena and at the northern corner of the Bricker Marketplace. They have a covered area with picnic tables where you can sit. They have one of the most varied food selections at the fair. They serve breakfast in the mornings, including eggs, bacon, and pancakes. We'll meet here and start our day by socializing over coffee and, if you want, breakfast. Last year, the pancakes with bacon was $7. You got two pancakes that I would describe as average-sized, and a couple strips of bacon. They gave me extra syrup for free. Both the pancakes and the bacon were actually pretty good. Their coffee is generally good, too. They also serve their coffee in Styrofoam cups, which I like because good coffee is more important to me than the environment. I've posted pics, below, of last year's Tracey's menu, as well as a picture of the venue itself relative to the main entrance of the Bricker Marketplace (this entrance faces the Celeste Center). * 10:00 a.m. - *Kasich Hall* Here they have the Ohio State Fair history exhibit, which is very cool. This building also hosts the creative exhibits, including quilts, cakes and pastries, and fair posters. Finally, events like girls' baton competitions, girls' cheerleading, youth choir, and youth boxing (my favorite) are held here. * 11:00 a.m. - *Lausche Youth Exploration Space* This building features 4-H exhibits, Boy and Girl Scout exhibits, and various science exhibits, with the latter including exhibits from COSI and the Ohio State Physics Department. You can also buy Girl Scout cookies here! * 12:00 a.m. - *Bricker Marketplace* Bricker Marketplace is the fair's main flea market. It's a huge indoor shopping area with a food court at its center. The [ODOT](https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/) booth is here, and I always like to check and see if they have any maps I want. Because Bricker is air-conditioned, it's a good place to stop for lunch. There are booths here with burgers, pizza, chicken, Asian food, and alcoholic beverages. * 1:00 p.m. - *Cox Fine Arts* There are art displays here -- paintings, drawings, sculptures, and such. I always like going through here, and people usually like the displays here. * 2:00 p.m. - *Natural Resources Park* The Natural Resources Park is next to Kiddieland, and I think it's the best area of the fair. It's certainly a very popular area. The Timber Show is popular, though I confess to finding it slightly overrated. This area also includes youth fishing, a kayak pond, archery range, butterfly house, aviary, and animal exhibits -- and these are all free. You can also get free chap stick and pens in the [Oil & Gas building](https://ohiodnr.gov/discover-and-learn/safety-conservation/about-ODNR/oil-gas/oil-gas). The chap stick is functional, though perhaps a bit mediocre, but the pens are absolutely the best possible pens you can get anywhere, and I'm being completely serious about this. These are seriously my all-time favorite pens, so I encourage you to grab a few. **Other Things Along the Way** Again, the Ohio State Fair is a big place! So here are some of the other things we might check out along the way: * *The* *Cincinnati Circus Company, The Nerveless Nocks, Lady Houdini, or some other "death-defying" act* These typically start at 1:30 and run once every two hours in the afternoon. The show is generally decent and worth catching, whatever it happens to be. These used to run at the south end of the fair by the south gate on 11th Avenue, but a couple years ago they moved them to the south end of the Midway and next to Natural Resources Park. My guess is that this is where they will be again this year. * *Main Street Stage / Gazebo Stage* These stages are at opposite ends of the "WNCI Food Highway." They'll have shows like live music, magic, hypnosis, juggling, and the like. I usually end up seeing most of the shows, almost by accident, during my annual trips to the fair. If there's music at the Gazebo, though, it can be a little loud if the performer is using a big amp. But otherwise the shows are generally entertaining, if not spectacular. If [The Beach Geeks](https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1440916777197254) are playing again this year, we are absolutely dropping everything to check them out. I'll fight people on this. * *The Midway* I'm not a big *riding*-the-rides person, and I doubt we will go through here though unless there's interest. However, I do really enjoy *watching* people ride rides, so I never have a problem taking a stroll down the Midway. I do like doing bumper cars, though, as well as some of the various haunted or fun houses. If you think there's a snowball's chance in hell I'm doing the [Defender](https://talleyamusements.com/attraction/defender/), though, then please put the bong down and slowly back away. * *The Dairy Building* This is where the famous Butter Cow is, and the exhibit is always popular. You can also get fairly overpriced ice cream and milkshakes here. Unless something changes here because of their renovations, there are cheaper places at the fair where you can get dairy desserts, and I can show you where they are. * *Taft Coliseum* An indoor arena where they have rodeo- or cowboy/cowgirl-type shows. Sometimes these shows are very good and entertaining and worth checking out. Note that, while you're out of the sun here and the seating is generally good, the arena is not air-conditioned. If trick riders [Tracie Spitznogle](https://www.tiktok.com/discover/tracie-lee-spitzongle) and [Carlie Hale](https://www.facebook.com/trickriderCarlie/) are here, you are likely to enjoy their show, and it will be free (and well-attended). * *The Petting Zoo* & *Pig Races* These used to be in Kiddieland, but in 2025 they were moved to "The Barnyard," next to the Gazebo Stage and the Celeste Center. I suspect they'll have moved again in 2026, but that they will otherwise be back. They're both free and generally popular, with the Pig Races being *extremely* popular. The woman who does the announcing for the Races always delivers the exact same script year after year, but she has so much charisma you won't care, even if you've seen it many times before. * *Central Park* Sometimes I like to just sit here, people-watch, and listen to the sounds of the fair. There are typically several beer vendors right next to Central Park if you want to relax and nurse a beverage while you do so, and the Dairy Building is also very close by. This area may end up being superseded in desirability by the new "Town Square." The Park does suffer from a paucity of shade, and the Square is supposed to rectify some of this. We will see! * *Live Music* There is likely to be some sort of band performing classic rock from something like 2p-5p either in the Taste of Ohio Pavilion next to the Natural Resources Park, or in the Pavilion's replacement/renovated area near the new Town Square. The show will be free and highly likely to be quite good. You should be able to get drinks and food here, too (wherever the ultimate location is), while you check out the band. * *Zultar - Fortune Teller* I saw this guy for the first time last year. He's one of the fair's "strolling entertainers," meaning he takes his act all over the fair and you never know where he will show up next. He's got a "booth" and he wears a costume and face paint that make him look exactly like one of those fortune-telling-booth mannequins. He is completely hilarious (particularly when dealing with children), and if we see him, we will stop and watch him. Don't make me fight you on this, too, people. * *Ohio History Center* Buying a ticket to enter the Ohio State Fair will automatically get you free admission to the [Ohio History Center](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-history-center/) and [Ohio Village](https://www.ohiohistory.org/visit/ohio-village/), which are located just outside the fairgrounds but otherwise are just next door. They've been doing major renovations of the Village, but these are supposed to be completed by the time the State Fair opens this year. You can walk from the fair to the History Center and the Village, or they have a free shuttle you can take. It's not a short walk, but it's also eminently doable. The History Center is a museum that's really not too terribly big, but is very interesting. And the Village is a living simulation of life in a small 19th-century Ohio town. I suspect most of the people who come out this Meetup would probably enjoy both the Center and the Village. Just keep in mind, though, that if we go, we'll probably be up there for at least a couple hours, which means less time at the fair. However, you won't have to twist my arm to get me to go up, because the whole History complex is actually pretty cool. **Conclusion** Come on out to the Ohio State Fair! 🥳 🎉 😄

BACK TO CABS!!! Come to CABS Friday 7/10 & Saturday 7/11 - return to CABS as we come back from Origins and the 4th of July Holiday Break. Come play the new games added to the library at Origins!!!

Join us for a 2.4 mile hike along the Alum Creek Trail south from Casto park to Strawberry Farms park and back. This is a fully paved flat trail along Alum Creek. Come and enjoy a great hike with us!

🇺🇸 Red, White & BOOM: A Black Love Summer Social ❤️ Skip the downtown chaos and celebrate with great people instead! Join Black Love & Friends as we spend the evening together in the beautiful, historic King-Lincoln District, just steps from Mayme Moore Park, with an incredible view of the Red, White & BOOM fireworks. This isn't a formal event—it's a relaxed summer gathering. Come early or stop by later. Stay for an hour or stay all evening. We'll have our own private meetup space where you can kick back, meet new people, play a few games, enjoy light refreshments, and simply enjoy the holiday together. Throughout the evening we'll explore the King-Lincoln District, soak up the atmosphere, laugh, connect, and then settle in as the Columbus skyline lights up with one of the biggest fireworks shows of the year. ✨ What to expect: 🎆 Great views of the Red, White & BOOM fireworks 🏙️ Historic King-Lincoln District ⛺ Private Black Love & Friends meetup tent 🎲 Lawn games & conversation 🥤 Light refreshments 🤝 New friends & great vibes 📸 Perfect summer photo opportunities Event begins: 6:30 PM Fireworks begin later in the evening, so arrive whenever works for you. Feel free to come and go throughout the night. ⚠️ RSVP is required. Space at our tent is limited, so we'll only be able to accommodate those who register in advance. Bring a chair if you'd like, wear your favorite red, white, and blue, and come celebrate community, connection, and summer with Black Love & Friends. Good people. Great conversations. Amazing fireworks.