Trees

Let's enjoy the sunshine and relaxing afternoon walk through a Zurich forest along a rivulet with relaxing sounds of water flowing and birds. Then after exploring some Zurich canals we end up at Zurich lake Blatterwiese, Another insider tip..😎 What awaits you: • Beautiful moments in nature • Immune boost from forest walk. • Fresh air n calming nature sounds. • At the lake we have possibility to BBQ if you like. • Positive vibes & connections with self, like minded people and nature. • Pls feel to bring Frisbee, other Games. to enjoy at Lake Blaterwiese ground. • Special "Tea" ☕ Walking Distance: around 4 km Descent: around 100m Walking duration: 1.5 - 2 hrs Difficulty: T1 *Date:* 09.4.2026, Saturday afternoon. ***First meeting point:*** @ 15:35 Zurich Bellevue (near fountain) *Tram:* @ 15:53 ; T4 from Zurich Bellevue - Rehalp ***Second meeting point:*** @16:05 Rehalp Tram Stop ***Third meeting point:*** Blatterwiese Zurich lake ***What to bring:*** 🎒 (Pls read below) +Comfortable walking Shoes, No high-heels +Something to Grill or anything you want +Disposable plate and Fork/Spoon n Cup +Fruits, nuts, snacks to share. +Enough Water, tea, juice, beer, wine etc. +Sunglasses, cap, layers +cash to buy ice-cream, snacks, tickets etc. +Insurance(s): participants own responsibility. \*\*Please don't forget to bring the chill n relaxed weekend mood 😄 ***Disclaimer:*** *It is a casual meetup of individuals responsible for their actions, choices, risk, capabilities and judgment. The organizer is not at all responsible for anything that might happen directly or indirectly with any participant during the hike/event or afterwards. By signing up on this activity, the participants consciously agree that the organizer will not be held responsible in any legal or financial way.*

Workshop-Details Wo: Zürich Escher Wyss Platz Wann: 09.05.2026 Zeit: 10:00 – 13:00 Uhr Was du lernen wirst * Lerne, wie du natürliches Licht und Schatten meisterhaft einsetzt, um ausdrucksstarke Schwarzweiss-Bilder zu gestalten. * Echte und ungestellte Momente auf der Strasse mit Selbstvertrauen festhalten * ICM (Intentional Camera Movement), eine kreative Technik, die absichtliche Kamerabewegungen mit einer langen Verschlusszeit kombiniert, um abstrakte, malerische Bilder zu schaffen * Die Schönheit der Schwarzweiss-Strassenfotografie entdecken Deine Teilnahme kostet 150 CHF. Bitte melde dich direkt über meine Website an und sichere dir deinen Platz: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops Erst nach Zahlungseingang ist dein Platz gesichert! Workshop Details Where: Zurich Escher Wyss Platz When: 09.05.2026 Time: 10:00 — 13:00 AM What you’ll Learn * Master how to use natural light and shadow to create striking black and white images * Capture candid street moments with confidence * Embrace ICM (Intentional Camera Movement), a creative technique that combines deliberate camera movement with a slow shutter speed to create abstract, painterly images * Discover the timeless beauty of black and white street photography Your participation costs 150 CHF. Please register directly through my website to secure your spot: www.katjabouwman.com/workshops More info on www.katjabouwman.com/workshops or Visit my Instagram account katja_zuerich

A 1:1 Reiki journey where you receive focused healing, intuitive guidance, and space to reconnect with your inner flow. Discover more about me and my work on: https://thebecomingfield.com/

**Come join us for the** **Beginner** **Street Dance Class** and discover Hip Hop, Commercial, Street Jazz, and more, learn useful moves, and get more confidence on a dance floor! Your teacher - **Nat ([@nat.so.fun](http://@nat.so.fun))** will guide you through all the steps, help you better understand the music, and groove with you to the best tracks. After the class, we'll head to the bar next door to chat, laugh, and relax together. **Come and vibe with us!** Don't get discouraged by the number of people on the event page. **Our weekly crew ranges from 10 to 25 amazing humans**—regulars, first-timers, and those who skip the ‘going’ button but never miss a class 😉 [Check out what the class looks like here!](https://www.instagram.com/reel/DK14dCKq9Tv/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MXNtemlvcGR1Y3F3dw==) **Booking is mandatory!** To ensure your participation in the class, it is mandatory to book a spot in advance. Please **visit the studio's website to book the class:** [BOOK HERE!](https://www.thevibedance.ch) *Rates?* 💃 **Single Class: CHF 29** **Special offer for NEW students: Starter Pack (2-Class) for CHF 35** *When?* **SATURDAY** 11:00 \- 12:00 \| Beginner Dance Class *Where?* **The Vibe Dance Studio** Hohlstrasse 488 8048 Zürich \~3 min from Altstetten Train Station and 15 min from HB *More info:* Website [thevibedance.ch](https://www.thevibedance.ch) Instagram [[@nat.so.fun](http://@nat.so.fun)]([https://www.instagram.com/nat.so.fun/](https://www.instagram.com/nat.so.fun/)) and [[@thevibedance.ch](http://@thevibedance.ch)]([https://www.instagram.com/thevibedance.ch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==](https://www.instagram.com/thevibedance.ch?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==)) **Have a question? DM us on Instagram or Contact us via Whatsapp:** +41 78 329 71 77 **See you on the dance floor!**

Summer is finally here — and I’m happy to be hosting this golf get-together again in Zurich. We’ll meet at Otelfingen at 10:00 AM at the entrance next to the reception, start with a couple of hours at the driving range, and then head to the golf café to relax and socialize. You’re very welcome to join — whether for the full session or just part of it. Please feel free to bring your own clubs, or you can rent them at the venue. Looking forward to seeing you all

**[👉Ticket needed (click here)](https://eventfrog.ch/de/p/sport-fitness/wandern/walk-connect-panorama-trail-on-uetliberg-7454202791579394752.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](https://social-circle.ch/)** Join us for a relaxed forest walk focused on great conversations, not intense hiking. We’ll match you with new friends for one-on-one chats – no small talk, just real connection. It’s the perfect Sunday to move your body, breathe fresh air, and meet like-minded people! 🌸🌲🥾 **Coming alone? That’s totally fine!** We’ll match you with people who share your vibe using the Social Circle app - we will introduce you to it during the event **Stay in the loop:** Join our WhatsApp group for updates and the live meeting location on the day: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/HGKLziV4s7bLZWEiouTQhi?mode=ems_copy_t](https://chat.whatsapp.com/HGKLziV4s7bLZWEiouTQhi?mode=ems_copy_t) *If the link doesn’t open on your phone, try using WhatsApp Web on your computer.* **Timeline** * ⏰ **11:45** – Meet under the big clock at Zurich Main Station (HB) * **12:15** – Take line 10 up to Uetliberg * **12:40** – Arrival at the top and quick icebreakers to get things flowing * ️ **13:15** – Walk through the forest (panorama trail) with one-on-one matchups (we switch partners along the way) * ️ **14:45** – Arriving at Restaurant Felsenegg and head back to the city **What to Bring** * Your smartphone for the friend-matching * Comfy shoes for forest trails * Water and a small snack to keep your energy up Let’s make your Sunday social, simple, and refreshing! **Disclaimer** Participation in this event requires a valid ticket, which must be purchased in advance via the link provided in the event description. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. We do not accept cash payments on the day of the event. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, we kindly ask all participants to follow the instructions and announcements from the event organizers. While our team works hard to create an enjoyable and welcoming atmosphere, attendance is at your own risk. We want everyone to feel comfortable and respected. If you encounter any issues or uncomfortable situations during the event, please speak directly to a member of our team — we’re here to help. We reserve the right to exclude participants from the event if they do not adhere to basic standards of respectful interpersonal behavior. This decision is at the discretion of the responsible organizers. By signing up, you agree that any content captured during the event (including photos and videos) may be used on Social Circle’s social media channels and those of our partners. Please be aware that we cannot wait for late participants, as this disrupts the planned group flow and connections. If you're delayed or choose a different route, it’s your responsibility to catch up with the group. A live location will be shared in the event's WhatsApp chat to help you reconnect. Want more events like this join our newsletter: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP)

**[⚠️ >>Ticket needed (click here)<<](https://eventfrog.ch/en/p/eating-drinking/digital-detox-cafe-7438263258744627340.html) or** **[www.social-circle.ch](http://www.social-circle.ch/)** **Unplug & Create: Digital Detox Café at Paint it Easy** Take a break from screens and reconnect with yourself and others at our Digital Detox event in Zürich’s most inviting creative space, Paint it Easy. We’ll kick off the evening with a relaxed atmosphere, setting the tone for a mindful and inspiring night. Join our craft group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JPIASNUJGwD23UUweSe0s3) Choose your path for the evening: **Deep Talk with Question Cards:** Dive into meaningful conversations and connect with fellow participants on a deeper level. **Boardgames:** Just for fun or to meet new people. **Creative Activities:** * **Drawing** (included) * **Canvas Painting** (CHF 10/hour + canvas, e.g., 30x40 cm: CHF 9) * **Pottery Painting** (CHF 20–45 per piece) * **Jewellery Making with Beads** (CHF 10/hour + materials, avg. CHF 20–30) * **Linocut Printmaking** (CHF 25–35 per piece) **Location:** Paint it Easy, Zürich **Early Bird Ticket:** CHF 15 **Includes :** Welcome drink\*, drawing material, notebook, games. **Doesn't include** : optional creative activity fees (depending on your choice) \*Warm drink, homemade iced tea, or lemonade Want more events like this? Join our community! [https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP](https://chat.whatsapp.com/KWSK2jINyuG9uHHjtxfnmP) No experience needed—just bring your curiosity and an open mind! Whether you're painting, reflecting, or connecting, this is your space to recharge, express, and enjoy. Please note that pictures might be taken and used, if you don't want to be on them please let the host know. Tickets are not refundable. #digitaldetox

A 1:1 Reiki journey where you receive focused healing, intuitive guidance, and space to reconnect with your inner flow. Discover more about me and my work on: https://thebecomingfield.com/

Step into a world of relaxation, strength, and flexibility with Aerial Yoga – the perfect way to start your Sunday. This dynamic practice combines the benefits of traditional yoga with the support of a hammock, allowing you to stretch deeper, decompress your spine, and find mental calm. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned pro, Aerial Yoga offers something for everyone. **Why You’ll Love Aerial Yoga:** **\* Relieve Spinal Tension –** Experience the anti-gravity magic of Aerial Yoga, which helps decompress your spine, release built-up tension, and improve posture. \* **Ease Lower Back Pain** – Gentle inversions and supported stretches provide relief for lower back discomfort, leaving you feeling refreshed and aligned. 
\* **Perfect for All Levels** – Whether you're a complete beginner or a yoga enthusiast, the hammock offers support, making the practice accessible and fun for everyone.
 **\* Increase Flexibility & Strength** – The hammock allows for deeper stretches and core activation, boosting both flexibility and muscle tone. **\* Stress-Free Sunday** – Float through the air in a calm, peaceful environment and leave the stress of the week behind, feeling balanced, energized, and relaxed. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance to elevate your practice – reserve your spot now and make your Sundays the best part of your week! ✨ Class in English // Open-level (beginners are all welcome :)) ✨ Props provided or bring your own ✨ Location: Zürich Oerlikon, Wattstrasse 3, 8050 Zürich ✨ Please contact me if you like to join to reserve the hammock / Registration via [Yoga Nest Eversports page](https://www.eversports.ch/s/yoga-nest-1) See you in the hammock :)

< \* \* \* English version below \* \* \* > DE Fürs Wochenende ist gutes Wetter angesagt, also geht es diesmal wieder nach draussen. Albisrieden gehört zu den Quartieren, in denen man noch etwas vom alten dörflichen Zürich spürt: rund um den historischen Kern treffen Fachwerkhäuser, enge Gassen, Brunnen und gewachsene Strukturen aufeinander. Gerade dieser Kontrast macht den Ort spannend fürs Urban Sketching. Treffpunkt: Am Brunnen im Dorfzentrum, direkt beim Ortsmuseum an der Ecke Albisriederstrasse / Triemlistrasse. Bitte bringt euer eigenes Zeichenmaterial und idealerweise einen kleinen Klapphocker mit. Keine Vorkenntnisse nötig. Wir skizzieren rund 2 Stunden, allein oder in kleinen Gruppen, ganz entspannt. Danach treffen wir uns wieder, zeigen unsere Sketches und machen ein Gruppenfoto. Als Leitfaden dienen die Werte der Urban Sketchers: https://urbansketchers.org/de/who-we-are/#mission/ #uskzurich ⸻ EN The forecast for the weekend looks good, so this time we are heading outdoors again. Albisrieden is one of those Zurich districts where you can still sense something of the city’s village past: around the historic centre, timber-framed houses, narrow lanes, fountains and long-established public spaces meet everyday neighbourhood life. That contrast makes it especially appealing for urban sketching. Meeting point: At the fountain in the village centre, right by the local museum (Ortsmuseum) at the corner of Albisriederstrasse / Triemlistrasse. Please bring your own drawing materials and, ideally, a small folding stool. No prior experience required. We sketch for about 2 hours, solo or in small groups, at an easy pace. Afterwards we regroup, share our sketches and take a group photo. As always, we follow the Urban Sketchers values: https://urbansketchers.org/who-we-are/#mission/ #uskzurich

**Skip the waiting list by sending me an email of confirmation of your donation** Hi everyone, Join us on a hike to the thermal waters of the Tamina Gorge caves, an award-winning 2020 Tripadvisor destination: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g198797-d1474082-Reviews-Tamina_Gorge-Bad_Ragaz_Canton_of_St_Gallen.html The hike is around 5 h long, intermediate fitness level, 460 m elevation, 15 km. We will walk up the bus route (no cars allowed), cross a natural bridge and back by the mountain next to it. Entry to the caves is 5 CHF, we will buy the tickets at the museum. You can bring lunch or order at the self-service restaurant at the museum. Train schedule: see photo Zurich HB-Bad Ragaz (from 14 CHF) Meeting point is under the blue angel 15 min before the train leaves. I will join you at Bad Ragaz train station. **Booking system:** Mandatory donation of 10 CHF to your favourite charity. To secure your spot or move from the waiting list to the going list, please send me a confirmation of your donation to [[[[[laurameetup@yahoo.com](mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com)]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/))]([mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com](http://mailto:laurameetup@yahoo.com/)) Alternatively, you can donate here: [Zurich Weekends and Hiking | Schweizerisches Rotes Kreuz](https://actnow.redcross.ch/en-GB/project/zurich-weekends-and-hiking?tab=overview) Check out our Facebook page: [https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr](https://www.facebook.com/share/15HuDGWwiM/?mibextid=wwXIfr) Cancelled in case of bad weather. Minimum: 5 persons with confirmed donation; max:15 See you, Laura

Step into a world of relaxation, strength, and flexibility with Aerial Yoga – the perfect way to start your Sunday. This dynamic practice combines the benefits of traditional yoga with the support of a hammock, allowing you to stretch deeper, decompress your spine, and find mental calm. Whether you're new to yoga or a seasoned pro, Aerial Yoga offers something for everyone. **Why You’ll Love Aerial Yoga:** **\* Relieve Spinal Tension –** Experience the anti-gravity magic of Aerial Yoga, which helps decompress your spine, release built-up tension, and improve posture. \* **Ease Lower Back Pain** – Gentle inversions and supported stretches provide relief for lower back discomfort, leaving you feeling refreshed and aligned. 
\* **Perfect for All Levels** – Whether you're a complete beginner or a yoga enthusiast, the hammock offers support, making the practice accessible and fun for everyone.
 **\* Increase Flexibility & Strength** – The hammock allows for deeper stretches and core activation, boosting both flexibility and muscle tone. **\* Stress-Free Sunday** – Float through the air in a calm, peaceful environment and leave the stress of the week behind, feeling balanced, energized, and relaxed. Spaces are limited, so don’t miss your chance to elevate your practice – reserve your spot now and make your Sundays the best part of your week! ✨ Class in English // Open-level (beginners are all welcome :)) ✨ Props provided or bring your own ✨ Location: Yoga Nest Zürich at Oerlikon, Wattstrasse 3, 8050 Zürich ✨ Registration is required via [Yoga Nest Eversports page](https://www.eversports.ch/s/yoga-nest-1) See you in the hammock :)

Open to public: Friday, 5/15/26: 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Saturday 5/16/26: 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Hosted by OSU The 2026 Chadwick Arboretum Spring Plant Sale and Auction Fundraiser Location: Lawn area south of the Nationwide and Ohio Farm Bureau 4-H Center 2201 Fred Taylor Dr, Columbus, OH 43210 Spring Plant Sale Spring into greenery at Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens! Join us for our annual Spring Plant Sale Fundraiser and dive into a lush world of botanical delights. With over 16,000 fresh, exotic, and time-tested edible and ornamental plants, there's something for every green thumb! Experience the thrill of our tree and shrub auctions, where you can bid on unique specimens to enhance your garden sanctuary. Step into our Learning Lab, where engaging educational demonstrations on various garden topics will unfold throughout the three-day sale, enriching your knowledge and inspiring your green endeavors. Take part in an exciting, live auction offered each day, as well as a silent auction on Thursday and Friday. Explore vendor booths brimming with gardening essentials and delightful treasures. And while you shop 'til you drop, indulge in delectable treats from a delicious, local food truck. Proceeds from this event go directly to The Ohio State Chadwick Arboretum, student organizations, and local businesses alike. Come one, come all! Let's cultivate a brighter, greener future together. Credit/debit cards only.

**💥 Join us THIS Saturday and EVERY Saturday!** **💥 At Columbus’ Hottest New Salsa Venue!** **.** Lincoln Street Salsa THIS Saturday and EVERY Saturday! 8 pm – 1 am **.** **💥 Gorgeously Renovated Studio!** **💥 Free Parking!** **💥 BYOB!** **💥 Easy Access from Highway!** **.** Lincoln Street Salsa 1717 Brice Rd Reynoldsburg, Ohio 43215 **.** **ENTRANCE IS ON THE NORTH SIDE OF THE BUILDING** **Behind Anthony’s Pharmacy!** **.** **PLEASE SHARE and help get the word out!** **.** **🟣 Salsa, Bachata, and Merengue Dancing!** **.** **🟣** 8:00 pm – 8:30 pm **𝗥𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻** **.** **🟣** 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm **𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 Class!** **.** **🟣** 9:30 pm – 1 am **𝗢𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆!** **.** **✅ Questions?** **Visit [LincolnStreetSalsa.com](https://columbussalsadancing.com/)** Or Text Todd: 614-774-8146 **.** **✅ No Experience Necessary!** **✅ No Partner Required!** **✅ Plenty of People to Dance With!** **.** **✅ $15 Cash / $16 Card** **✅ College Students $5 Off with Valid ID!** **✅ BYOB** **✅ Age 18+** **.** **✅ Lincoln Street Salsa is the perfect place for…** **.** **👉 Learning to Dance** **👉** Social Dancing **👉 Birthday Celebration** **👉** Bachelorette Parties **👉 Girl’s Night Out** **👉 Date Night** **👉** Getting Fit / Burning Calories **👉 Meeting New People** **👉** Having Fun, Fun, Fun! **.** ✅ **Questions?** Visit [LincolnStreetSalsa.com](https://columbussalsadancing.com/ "https://columbussalsadancing.com/") Or Text Todd: 614-774-8146 .

Wild Ones Columbus Annual Native Plant Sale Saturday, May 23th, 2026 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (Eastern Time) Overbrook Presbyterian Church Parking Lot, 4131 N High St, Columbus, OH, 43214 Public Welcome, Family-Friendly Free Event A wide variety of native flowering plants, grasses, shrubs, and trees will be available from Wild Ones Columbus and local vendors Natives in Harmony, Leaves for Wildlife, and Scioto Gardens. Wild Ones will publish a list of plants that will be available at this year's sale closer to the event date. Be sure to stop by! Show up anytime!

Join us for lunch/tea at Asterisk Supper Club to discuss our May book "Under the Oak Tree" by Suji Kim Lady Maximilian is the daughter of the powerful Duke Croyso, but she is rarely allowed outside her family’s sprawling castle for fear that her stutter will tarnish their noble name. When she is forced to marry Sir Riftan, a lowborn knight caught in one of her father’s schemes, Maxi doesn’t dare hope for happiness, let alone love. Her stumbling communication and his gruff manner sour their relationship before it can begin, and Riftan leaves without a word the morning after their vows are exchanged. Now, three years after their disastrous wedding night, Riftan has returned as a war hero. To Maxi’s surprise, despite rumors that he was offered marriage to Princess Agnes, a beautiful and renowned sorceress, Riftan still wants Maxi for his wife. And when he comes to claim her, his longing becomes a desire that bewilders Maxi, even as she is overcome by the scorching heat that Riftan’s presence ignites within her. As she learns to navigate the intricacies of her new life, Maxi will find herself and her courage, and discover that she is anything but powerless.

**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.

Main Library, Meeting Room 2B Join us for a welcoming evening of reflection, gentle music, and meaningful conversation. We’ll begin with a short grounding moment, followed by a brief reading from spiritual or philosophical traditions, and an open reflection circle where participants can share (or simply listen). Libera Animae is an interfaith community focused on inner growth, creativity, and authentic connection. All backgrounds are welcome.

Community Backyards Workshop Join us at the Ohio Herb Center in Gahanna to learn about sustainable home gardening. We can make small changes in our yards to make a BIG impact for a better environment and healthier waterways while saving money. This workshop is presented by Friends of Alum Creek and hosted by Ohio Herb Center. By attending, any participating community resident can receive a voucher for a rain barrel, compost bin, or native plants for attending. Vouchers are limited to one per household per year. Registration in advance is encouraged but NOT required. Click here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/65f65aw (Free Workshop Registration: Registration is free. Registering in advance provides your information to Franklin Soil and Water ahead of time, so when you come to the workshop, we will have your voucher ready for you when you arrive) * Location: Ohio Herb Center, 110 Mill St, Gahanna, OH 43230 * Date and time: Sat, May 23, 2026 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM * Organizer: The Community Backyards Program, (614) 486-9613, communitybackyards@franklinswcd.org **FAQs** **Our Community Backyards workshops are FREE and a great way to participate in the rebate program. Our workshops are typically 1 to 1 and a half hours long and held in-person. Our workshops cover the same content as the online course, but they are more detailed and allow the chance to ask questions and have discussions with the presenters and other residents. We occassionally have "advanced topics" classes where you dive deeper into one topic of Community Backyards such as invasive vs. native plants or rain gardens.** **Registration is encouraged but not required.** You can register in advance to receive your voucher at the workshop. If you don't register in advance, that's okay - you can still show up (unless otherwise noted - which is very rare) and sign up for a voucher at the class, and we will send you one via email or mail within a few business days after the workshop. **"Do I have to be a resident of that community to attend that workshop?"** Nope! Our workshops are open to everyone (unless otherwise noted - which is extremely rare). You can attend a workshop that best suits your schedule even if it is in a different community than your own. **"Why is registration closed?** Can I just show up?" Yes, you can show up without registering! We close registration typically 1-2 days before the workshop to give the vouchers and materials to the presenters. However, you are always welcome to just show up and fill out a short form to request a voucher at the workshop. If eligible, we will send one to you within 1-2 business days after the workshop. **Voucher note**: Classes are free for everyone but vouchers are for residents of Franklin county or participating community (list here: https://www.communitybackyards.org/participate) 2026 Participating Vendors: City Folk's Farm Shop, Fisher's Gardens, Leaves for Wildlife, Scioto Gardens, Hoover Gardens & Gift Center, and the FSWCD/SWACO Compost Bin Sale. *when redeeming your voucher at a vendor, Please bring a physical copy of your voucher to receive an immediate discount on your purchase. Additionally, to keep up with number of vouchers that are given out, we have changed the expiration date on the vouchers to 30 days