Trinidad and Tobago

\*\***The Toronto History Walks Explorer Pass is available. Get it now for $125.00 for 1 year of unlimited tours, email** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** **for more information or for signing up!\*\*** \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the Ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com** The story of historic Little India is a true Toronto success story, a unique look at a neighbourhood and the people who call it home. But the story is not always a happy one. Like all other areas in Toronto, Little India started out as a purely English - Anglican area and was repeatedly changed as other immigrants opted to leave the security of the downtown core for outer areas. With the opening of the Naaz theatre in 1972, the community that became Little India started to take shape, but in Toronto the forces that developed communities were different in that part of the city sandwiched between Leslieville to the south, and Greektown to the north. With a strictly Anglo-Saxon pro-British community entrenched for over 100 years, now changing to include south Asians, the area was seen as a rather depressed area, or an area in transition, and violence was an unfortunate part of life. Racial tensions increased dramatically with the influx of south Asians. But by the 1980s and 1990s the district had found its feet, and Little India was a popular Toronto district and tourist attraction, with visitors pouring in from around the world to partake of the richness. A true cultural enclave in Toronto! A fascinating history and a fascinating community awaits! This tour has been revised a few times to add more historic information to the walk, it has been revised once again for 2026 with new landmarks and stories attached. Should be a fascinating walk! This walk is for all fitness levels. The meeting place for our walking adventure is on the southwest corner of Greenwood Avenue and Gerrard Street East! This tour has a ticket price of $15.00 per person! \*\* **Please note: Please e-transfer the Ticket amount when booking your space for this tour! You can e-transfer to the following email at:** **torontohistorywalks@gmail.com**

【College Park food court is closed again, so we change the location to the food court in Aura Concourse（384 Yonge St., Toronto, ON）, near the College Station.】 I am helping organize a mandarin-english language exchange downtown. If you want to improve your Mandarin/English, feel free to come by downtown and meet others to practise your language. There will be native Mandarin and English speakers to help you! Or you can share your language skills with others! Every Sunday 3:00pm-5:00pm Aura Concourse（384 Yonge St., Toronto, ON) [ Please find a table with "meetup" label (like the Featured photo).] —————————————— 大家好： 【College Park的food court又给封了，所以我们把活动地点换到了 Aura Concourse的food court（384 Yonge St., Toronto, ON），靠近College Station。】 我正在组织一场中英文交流活动。如果你想提高你的普通话或者英语，那就快来参加吧！你可以在这里认识很多母语为普通话或者英语的新朋友！他们都非常乐于帮你提高你的中英文表达能力！也欢迎你同我们一起分享你的语言技巧! 谢谢! 每周日 3:00pm-5:00pm Aura Concourse food court（384 Yonge St., Toronto, ON） 【请找到一张桌子，桌上有张纸，写着“Meetup”。】 ———————————————— 大家好： 【College Park的food court又給封了，所以我們把活動地點換到了Aura Concourse的food court（384 Yonge St., Toronto, ON），靠近College 】 我正在組織一場中英文交流活動。如果你想提高你的國語或者英語，那就快來參加吧！你可以在這裡認識很多母語為國語或者英語的新朋友！他們都非常樂於幫你提高你的中英文表達能力！也歡迎你同我們一起分享你的語言技巧！ 謝謝! 每週日 3:00pm-5:00pm Aura Concourse food court（384 Yonge St., Toronto, ON） 【請找到一張桌子，桌上有張紙，寫著“Meetup”】

Join Lawrence, your top hatted host, for an afternoon of indoor and outdoor activities. We will gather at the Duke of Cornwall Pub on University for a pint and a light meal. 400 University Ave, Toronto, ON M5G 1S5 https://dukepubs.ca/duke-of-cornwall/ At 2 pmish, we will cross the street to the Textile Museum to see two exhibits. I will reserved a TPL pass for up to four attendees including myself. If you are able, please try as well at https://epass-ca.quipugroup.net/?clientID=16&libraryID=1#:~:text=How%20do%20I%20get%20a,print%20or%20download%20your%20pass. From Cloth to Code: New Media Responses - the exhibition reimagines textile heritage and practices using interactive technologies, sound installations, 3-D printed sculptures, animation, neon, and projections. and Made By Many: 50 Years of the Textile Museum of Canada - a collection comprised of living objects, imbued with stories and knowledge of the diverse communities from which they originate. https://textilemuseum.ca/ 55 Centre Ave, Toronto Then we will walk towards City Hall and our next destination, Spirit Garden. The Spirit Garden revolves around the turtle sculpture and incorporates elements that represent First Nations, Inuit and Métis cultures, including a teaching lodge, amphitheatre, a Three Sisters teaching garden, Two Row Wampum (Kuswenta), Tree of Peace, a water feature, a Métis canoe and an Inuksuk. Then it's time to hit the ice, so to speak. We will take a few laps around the rink as we listen to music and take in the beauty of our city. You can rent skates for a fee Not being a skater, I will be nursing a hot chocolate and enjoying the action from the side lines.

hi 🌿 If you’ve ever been curious about kundalini yoga, I’m hosting a beginner friendly class for spiritually curious souls who want to move, breathe, and come back into alignment. Its pay what you can (through Luma link below) 📍 Society Clubhouse (967 College St) ✨ no experience needed just bring a yoga mat, water, and an open heart. 🧾 all the details + RSVP: [https://lu.ma/raisingpotters](https://lu.ma/raisingpotters) [https://www.instagram.com/raisingpotters/](https://www.instagram.com/raisingpotters/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAYnJpZBExcnkzaUl1VUhCYUFHRHFYTgEeAEstG9jffoRf-WnwWdkEuT9zTc84frh0xMCI9XRAJWdnML-qTCNtMaVFWyQ_aem_ffVNP0rpvXlxPJBjQ-9Nlg) if you'd like a sneak peek at what the practice might look like! if someone comes to mind who could use this space, feel free to forward this along 💛 see you there if it resonates !!

❄️🚶‍♀️ **EXPLORATION WALK: YORKVILLE & U OF T** – **6 KM** 🎓🏙️ **Because winter is temporary… but missing this walk is forever.** “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” So layer up, zip up, and let’s romanticize January like true Torontonians 😌❄️ This walk explores **two parts of the city that started out the same — and then went in completely different directions.** One got glitzier. One stayed timeless. Both are *very* walkable, dramatic, and worth showing up for. \*\*\* \#\#\# THE WALK 🗺️✨ We’ll start and end at **Rosedale Subway Station**, making a glorious winter loop. • **Rosedale Park** 🌳 – quiet, elegant, and shockingly peaceful. • **Yorkville** 💎 – once wealthy, then a hippie coffee-shop haven, and now one of the *richest* neighbourhoods in the city. Full-circle glow-up. • **University of Toronto** 🏛️ – once reserved for Toronto’s elite, now open to everyone. Unlike Yorkville, it’s beautifully **frozen in time**, with historic buildings that haven’t changed much — except for the degrees inside them. • **Bamboo Forest at U of T** 🎋 – we’ll try to sneak a peek if it’s open (because mystery is part of the fun). ☕ **WARM-UP BREAK:** We’ll make a **30-minute stop at Tim Hortons** to thaw our fingers, grab food and drinks, and question why winter feels personal. \*\*\* ⚠️ **IMPORTANT NOTES** • Do **NOT** sign up if you’re not ready to walk in winter ❄️ • This walk happens in **snow, cold, wind, or vibes** • Event will only be cancelled if it hits **-20°C** (because we are sensible, not soft) \*\*\* \#\#\# MEETUP DETAILS 🧤🧣 📍 **Meetup Location:** Outside **Rosedale Subway Station** 👀 **How you’ll spot me:** I’ll be wearing my **MOOSE HAT** (a winter icon) ⏰ **Meetup Time:** 11:00 AM ⏱️ I wait **5 minutes only** — *Early is on time, on time is late* 💰 **Meetup Fee:** $5 (cash 💵 or e-transfer 📲 to \*\*[mathewmaclean@hotmail.com**](http://mathewmaclean@hotmail.com%2A%2A/)) You can send it before or on the day of the walk.**m** 🏁 **End Point:** **Rosedale Subway Station** \*\*\* 👀 **NOT SURE YOU CAN MAKE IT?** Just show up. Literally. Winter plans are fluid. \*\*\* \#\#\# WHAT TO BRING 🎒 • Water • **Good boots** (non-negotiable) • Gloves & hat • Something warm to drink ☕ • A snack \*\*\* ⏳ **HOW LONG?** About **3 hours**, including our warm-up break. 🚪 **Can you leave early?** Anytime you like — no judgment, only vibes. 📱 **Don’t forget to join our WhatsApp group** – [CLICK HERE!](https://chat.whatsapp.com/H59mSCbsAi018gYANrKAnc?mode=ac_t) Get updates, chat with other walkers, and stay in the loop for future events! \*\*\* Mathew is the organizer for this meetup. If you need to contact him, post on the wall or email: 📧 \*\*[torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com**](http://torontomoviesandoutings@hotmail.com%2A%2A/) ✨ Cold weather builds character. ✨ Good walks build community. ✨ Missing this? That’s on you. ❄️🔥

**What would it be like...** ...To spend four nights and five days in a peaceful place on a river, surrounded by thoughtful lesbians who are curious about themselves and about you, building real community and friendships in a safe, supportive environment? To feel accepted exactly as you are, whether you're in your 30s or your 80s, or anywhere in between... whether you've been out for decades, or are just coming out now... and have fun, go deep, *and* gain skills for your life as a woman or non-binary person who loves women? Dancing. Walking. Swimming. Sun-bathing. Canoeing. Playing conversation games that help you really get to know people. And attending what some members have called "lesbian university," with classes that help you make lasting changes to create the dating and love life you really want. *For many lesbians, a retreat like this one is a dream come true, a chance to break out of isolation and make connections that will last for the rest of your life.* **Here's what a few recent participants have said.** Our March 2026 retreat sold out so fast that we added this January retreat, and we're making it available to women\* new to Conscious Girlfriend Academy, as well as existing members. (All of our work is open to all self-identified women and adjacent non-binary people who love women, or want to. Late-in-lifers are warmly welcome!) **[For more info or to sign up, visit our retreat page here.](https://www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com/lesbian-retreat)**[ ](https://www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com/lesbian-retreat) The Academy is a truly unique LGBTQ space, both online and offline. In a world that sometimes seems to have gone mad, full of disconnection and dysfunction, we create an oasis in our own lives and for the lesbian/queer community. We're the authors of the Amazon bestselling book Conscious Lesbian Dating & Love ([start reading the book for free right here](https://www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com/book)) and have changed lives in 25 countries. Academy work is based on cutting-edge neuroscience and attachment research, combined with decades of real-life lesbian and queer hard experience. Our teachers and coaches have been through many trainings, including the "school of hard knocks," and we're dedicated to making YOUR journey easier. Together, we shift isolation... into connection. We transmute heartbreak... into healing and empowerment. We help lesbians and queer women create the friendships and love we've always wanted. And in the process, we make life better for all of us :) Learn more at[ www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com ](www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com)\-\- and visit soon if you can\, because annual memberships are on sale for 20% off through December 1\. Wondering if we're the right fit for you?[ Visit our retreat page](https://www.consciousgirlfriendacademy.com/lesbian-retreat) to learn how to schedule a free 1:1 chat with our outreach director so you can get better-acquainted with our program. Do it today, and tomorrow you'll be glad you did :)

Hello everyone, I'd like to invite you out in January as we get the New Year off on the right foot with a fun, interactive and inspiring dinner party\*\*!\*\* -Reserved seating, friendly people, good conversation and great food awaits! So please plan to join us if you can :) \*Joined by my other groups too; so we can anticipate a fantastic evening **Time: 6:30 p.m. -9:30 p.m.** **Location:** La Carnita - Good Fortune Bar (Main Floor) **Address:** 130 Eglinton Ave. Toronto, ON M4P 2X9 Event Details Bellow: Sincerely, Steve Flemming (Organizer/Host) Event Details: **The 2026 New Year's with Friends Dinner Party!** **(Sunday January 11th)** \*Including a New Years Ice-breaker game to put us in a positive state of mind :) -The great thing about this dinner party is you're free to move around to different tables and meet the other members too throughout the evening -A fun way to make new connections, enjoy a nice meal and share some laughs together **Dinner Party Topics** may include but not limited too: Travel, Culture, Spirituality, Relationships, Modern Dating, Work/Life balance, Art, Dreams, Astrology Outer Space, Technology, A.I., Economy, Music, Movies, Sports, Fashion, Hobbies, Books, Current Affairs, The Good Life, Psychology, Philosophy, the Future, History, Pop Culture, Critical Thinking, Theatre, etc.) **Arrival Time:** \*Join us any time between 6:30 pm and 7:15 pm (if you can) for a fun and highly interactive evening as we get to know the members over dinner and great conversations (of your choice) Event goes until roughly 9:30 pm **Event Fee:** 5 dollars (cash only please) (HST included) or in advance by e transfer to **[steveflemming11@gmail.com](http://steveflemming11@gmail.com/)** \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Friendly Reminder:** \*One beverage or appetizer minimum to support the venue- this is greatly appreciated :) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-\- **Parking Available:** \*Plenty of free street parking on Eglinton and (Residential area south/east of venue for free) **Close to Subway Station:** \*Also right beside the Yonge/Eglinton subway station \-\-\-\-\-\-\-\-

**Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on [our website](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/mono-winter-2026).** **Come explore the unique and subtle beauty of Ontario winter with this iconic hike just over an hour north-west of Toronto.** Steeped in dramatic cliff formations and abundant hardwood forests, this stunning provincial park is loved by nature enthusiasts across Ontario. It is a geological gem shaped by the lumbered movement of ancient glaciers and filled with rich biodiversity. On this hike you can expect: * Boundless maple groves * Sweeping panoramic views * Epic, 30-meter-high rock formations * Unique plant life that thrives in the park’s cool, shaded valleys This is a moderately challenging 8 km hike with a consistent incline and decline. We’ll hike across open fields, through quiet forest, and along cliff edges that reveal incredible views of the surrounding countryside. Our final destination is Jacob’s Ladder, a wooden staircase that winds through a narrow rock corridor and offers an unforgettable finish to the climb. **Depending on snow levels we may be required to use snowshoes or ice spikes. We have a limited quantity available that you can grab at check-out. Ice spikes are free to borrow and snow shoes can be rented for a small fee.** **Note that self drivers will need to [purchase a full day vehicle permit](https://reservations.ontarioparks.com/create-booking/results?resourceLocationId=-2147483472&mapId=-2147483059&searchTabGroupId=4&bookingCategoryId=33&startDate=2023-05-06&endDate=2023-05-07&nights=1&isReserving=true&partySize=1&equipmentCapacity=1&filterData=%7B%7D&searchTime=2023-04-30T16:50:21.954) in advance.** **Highlights** **Dramatic Cliffs:** Wander between towering cliffs and ancient crevices carved by time. This is the geology field trip of your dreams! **Sweeping Panoramas:** From forest canopies to distant hills, you’ll get wide-open views that remind you just how big and beautiful Ontario really is. **Close to Toronto:** Go on an incredible nature hike and get your laundry and groceries done all in the same day. **Event cost** ***Starting from $40+HST - optional transport available!*** **Register [here.](https://www.wildernessunion.com/adventures/mono-winter-2026)** **About Wilderness Union** Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people. Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad. Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming! ***Learn more at our website [www.wildernessunion.com](https://www.wildernessunion.com/)***

Join us for an afternoon of speed dating and fun! We have two events, one for ages 35-45 and another one for ages 45-55. Speed dating is a fun way to meet new people, and that special someone! Tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/toronto-downtown-speed-dating-events-4800164 Hope to see you there!

Cost: $16 per person (includes feather birdies). Plastic birdies are available upon request. Payment: Cash is preferred and should be made before playing. E-Transfer (EMT) or debit card payments are accepted (plus applicable taxes). Time: Sundays, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM Location: 1370 Birchmount Rd, Unit #6 (Closest intersection: Birchmount Rd & Lawrence Ave) Requirements: Racquets: Bring your own racquet. Rentals are available at the club if needed. Shoes: Please bring indoor gym shoes and change into them at the club before entering the courts. Winter Reminder: Ensure you change into court shoes before stepping onto the courts during the winter months. Rules and Guidelines: No outside food is allowed. This meetup is open to players of all skill levels (beginner to advanced). The primary purpose is to play friendly doubles games. This event is not intended for singles matches or formal training sessions. Attendance is capped based on court availability. Waitlisted participants may be moved to the confirmed list as space allows, with priority given to regular attendees and those with reliable RSVP history. No Drop-ins: Only individuals on the confirmed “Going” list are allowed to attend. Unregistered participants will be asked to leave. Cancellation Policy: Please cancel at least 48 hours in advance if you cannot attend. Failure to do so will result in being marked as a no-show. Repeated no-shows may lead to removal from future “Going” lists.

**♠️ Lodge 401 Inaugural Poker Tournament ♠️** Join us for the **$15,000 Guaranteed Tournament** **🗓 Event Details** **Date:** January 11 **Doors Open:** 3:00 PM **Tournament Starts:** 4:00 PM 📍 **Location:** Lodge 401 1645 Warden Ave, Toronto **🎲 Game** **No-Limit Hold’em** **💰 Buy-In & Structure** * **$200 + $30** * **20,000 starting chips** * **$20 dealer option for an additional 10,000 chips** * **20-minute blind levels** * **Unlimited re-entry** * Late registration closes at the **end of the break after Level 6** **🏆 Prize Pool** * **$15,000 Guaranteed** * **Top 12.5% paid** * No player cap This is our **inaugural tournament**, and we’re setting the standard from day one. Expect a smooth structure, professional dealers, and a great poker atmosphere.

### Details This event is for women in their late 20s to 40s in Toronto who want a winter hike close to the city. Spend time outdoors, enjoy creekside scenery, and explore the Mimico Creek Trail with other women who appreciate nature and city-accessible trails. Perfect for anyone looking for a Toronto hiking group or a short outdoor adventure. ### What we’ll do * Meet at Kipling subway station for a scenic hike along the creek * Walk through wooded areas, open paths, and the surrounding neighbourhood * Follow a 6–9 km route depending on the group’s pace and winter trail conditions * Pause for photos, nature observation, quiet reflection, or conversation * After the walk, optionally visit a nearby bakery or casual cafe to warm up and socialize * If trail conditions are unsafe (ice, snow, or slippery paths), we will do a safe alternative neighborhood walk Duration: About 1.5–2 hours hiking, plus optional bakery or cafe time ### Why join This walk offers a winter outdoor experience in Toronto, a chance to enjoy nature along city trails, and an opportunity to meet other women who enjoy hiking and casual social connection. Ideal for anyone searching for Toronto women’s hikes or short winter hikes near the city. ### 🚉 Transit & Parking: * Mimico Creek Trail is accessible by TTC * Parking is available at nearby plaza * Route will be out-and-back, returning to the starting location ### 🧣 What to Bring: * Winter boots (paths may be snowy or icy) * Warm layers, hat, and gloves * Water **Disclaimer**: This group is designed to offer a peaceful, enjoyable space for women to connect and spend time outdoors together. Please note that I am not responsible for any personal belongings, injuries, or incidents that may occur during our events. Participants are responsible for their own safety and items. Photos may be taken during events for future promotions or group memories, and by joining, you consent to being included in these images unless otherwise specified. By joining, you agree to respect the privacy of others and engage in a positive, supportive environment. Please note: the fee is non-refundable.

¡Hola! Welcome, and welcome back! We meet in the North York Centre, at 5150 Yonge St. (subway: North York), in the Food Court, every Sunday from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Angela will be your hostess. ¡Hasta luego!

❄️ **Spare Yourself a Boring Winter - Bowl With Us!** Avoid social hibernation this winter, join our **6-week social bowling league** starting in January! Whether you're looking to unwind after work, meet new people, or just have a fun night out with pals, this league is perfect for everyone! Chill times, cold drinks, and plenty of chances to connect with others. No matter your skill level, this league is all about having fun and meeting new friends. **;)** **🗓 Thursday evenings \|📍 AMF Sawmill Lanes \| 💵 $74 w/ code MUCOW26** **💻 League Info & Registration**: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling **Why Join?** 🎉 It’s only 6 weeks - perfect for a low-commitment social plan 🍻 Great mix of people in their 20s-40s, plus post-game hangs at the bar 🎳 Zero pressure - gutter balls totally welcome! 👕 Free league shirt if you sign up early 🧠 Weekly trivia w/ prizes 💬 Super social - join solo or w/ friends! **Want in?** Join our Meetup team Here for the Beer 👉 **Click here to join** https://tinyurl.com/2559lb7t Or start a team of your own with a few friends - we’ll all be hanging out either way! 📅 League Dates (Thursday evenings): Jan 22, Jan 29, Feb 5, Feb 12, Feb 19, Feb 26 ***(The MeetUp event date is deadline to register for the league.)*** **Cost & What’s Included:** ✔ $74 with discount code MUCOW26 ✔ 6 weeks of bowling (1–3 games/week) ✔ Shoe rentals & full league setup ✔ Trivia, prizes, and great people 👉 **SIGN UP NOW** 💻League Info & Registration: https://bit.ly/ColumbusBowling 🤑Use promo code MUCOW26 to save $20 📸 Follow the fun on Instagram: https://bit.ly/BowlingLeague-IG 📩 Questions? Contact the league: http://bit.ly/2nKHno7 Spots are filling fast – don’t miss out on the fun times!

Hey there Black Love Friends and Welcome to 2026! To start the year off right we're bringing back our monthly birthday celebrations...but over brunch! To kick us off we'll be enjoying breathtaking city views at the exquisite Goodale Station. So join us for good food, good conversation and if it's your birth month, enjoy a birthday mimosa on us. Space is limited so RSVP today

**Community Dance – Every Friday at Unity of Columbus** Let go of the week’s stress and move into joy! Join us every Friday for an evening of community, connection, and dance at Unity of Columbus. It’s a chance to meet new friends, express yourself through movement, and experience the emotional healing that comes from music and rhythm. No dance experience needed — just bring your energy, an open heart, and your dancing shoes! Dance is freedom. Dance is healing. Dance is fun.

*GOhio!* turns 8!! 🥳 Come celebrate with us at [Pins Mechanical](https://www.pinsbar.com/locations/easton)! 😄 **Summary** Pins Mechanical Co. is a social entertainment venue that combines old-school games like duckpin bowling, pinball, and other classic arcade and table games with craft cocktails, local beers, and punch. The vintage-industrial atmosphere is designed for playful, face-to-face gatherings with friends, family, and colleagues, offering a casual and lively alternative to a typical bar. Pins' Easton location spans over 38,000 square feet, making it the largest in the United States. This massive entertainment venue features two floors, a mezzanine level with stadium seating, and three full-service bars. It offers 16 duckpin bowling lanes, two indoor bocce courts, and more than 60 classic and modern pinball and arcade games. For additional fun, the location is known for its two outdoor patios, an indoor slide, and an expanded patio pong setup. **Activities** As noted below, some machines take actual quarters. Pins has two change machines (one downstairs and one upstairs) that accept ones, fives, or tens (only), and return quarters (only). * *Duckpin Bowling* [Like Bowling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Duckpin_bowling) but with smaller balls, stubby pins, and no oil on the lanes. The cost is $9 per game per person. * *Pinball* [Who](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Who)'s a [wizard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinball_Wizard) on these [retro machines](https://pinballmap.com/map/?by_location_id=15311)? At $1 per play, everyone! Takes quarters. * *Arcade* Play classics like Gorf, Pac-Man, Gorf, Donkey Kong, Gorf, Galaga, and Gorf! The best part is, there's Gorf! And all the arcade games are free! * *Patio Pong* The classic college party staple but bigger. Instead of tossing a ping pong ball into cups, you use a regular ball and oversized buckets. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free! * *Ping Pong* The most popular sport in China! They have two ping pong tables downstairs and two more ping pong tables upstairs. For those of you who have studied topological spaces and set theory, you will know this means they have four total ping pong tables. They have bubble gum dispensers with ping pong balls in them for 25¢ each. The dispensers take quarters. However, they also have racks where they store the ping pong paddles, and in these racks are slots for ping pong balls. It's not uncommon to see balls already here, so there's a chance you may be able to play ping pong for free if you want to. * *Hookie* You can't put your eye out! The safe alternative to darts: Hook thrown rings on a board. Outdoors on the upstairs patio, and free! * *Bocce* Like bowling, except there’s turf and a lot more balls. You can also knock your opponent’s balls out of the way. There are two of these upstairs, and they're both free! * *Foosball* Everyone loves [foosball](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Table_football)! 50¢ a game. Takes quarters. * *Giant Jenga* Stack massive wooden blocks into a tower, then take turns pulling out one block at a time without collapsing the tower. There are four of these sprinkled throughout the venue (two downstairs and two upstairs, with one on each patio), and they're all free! * *Skeeball* There are three skeeball machines on the first floor (near the Gorf machine!), and they're all free! * *Giant Connect Four* On the outdoor patio upstairs, and free! * *Bubble Hockey* This is upstairs. Up to four people can play at once, and it costs $1. Takes quarters. * *Cornhole* There are two cornhole lanes upstairs, and they're both free! * *Basketball* There are two basketball machines downstairs. They're tucked behind the downstairs bar, so they're not always obvious unless you go look for them. They're $2 per play, and they take quarters. * *NES and Sega Genesis video games* These are collections, downstairs (near the Gorf machine!), of video games that you can play for free! * *The Big Metal Indoor Slide* This large two-story slide is for kids, and certainly no adults would ride this. After all, it's not like it's free or anything. **Outdoor Patio** Pins at Easton actually has two outdoor patios. But for our purposes, only the upstairs one matters. See, it will be winter and likely cold. But their upstairs patio has multiple ceiling heaters and two massive gas fire pits that put out a ton of heat. Sitting out here may be a real option. As mentioned above, the upstairs outdoor patio has one of the venue's two Patio Pong setups, one of their multiple Giant Jengas, the Giant Connect Four, and Hookie. **Food** Pins doesn't serve food, but there's a [Mikey's Late Night Slice](https://www.latenightslice.com/) next door. This Mikey's is basically an extension of the Easton Pins; there's a large open doorway between both establishments. Mikey's has a fountain dispenser with Coke products. You can also get Coke and Diet Coke (but not Coke Zero, like you can at Mikey's) at the bars in Pins, but I think the quality of the soda pop from Mikey's fountain is better than that from the bar hoses Pins uses to dispense soft drinks. You are also quite allowed at Pins to either bring food in or order it in via your favorite delivery app. **Parking** I recommend parking in the [Worth Garage](https://eastontowncenter.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/parking-at-easton-updated-file-sept-25.pdf). It's literally right next door to Pins, and it's free as long as you park on Level 2 or above. They recently started charging people to park on Level 1, and you pay for parking on this level the same way you pay for street parking in Columbus, with the [ParkColumbus](https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.parkmobile.parkcolumbus&hl=en_US&pli=1) app. I've seen them enforce this by ticketing people's cars, but I don't know how they actually compel payment. The garage is not a public street that actual cops can write you tickets for parking illegally on. If you have an actual ticket from a cop that you don't pay, they can go so far as to issue a warrant for your arrest. But all Easton has, seemingly, is, "[Please pay our ticket](https://eastonpreferredpark.com/)." Still, in my ongoing efforts to eliminate needless stress and aggravation from my life, I just park above the first Level. The actual address of the garage is [4049 Worth Ave, Columbus, OH 43219](https://www.google.com/maps/place/4049+Worth+Ave,+Columbus,+OH+43219/@40.0542293,-82.9137962,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x88388a86de3af559:0xc1dc8b4661fc834f!8m2!3d40.0542293!4d-82.9137962!16s%2Fg%2F11sgzjp4ml?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkyNC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D). However, your GPS is stupid. The actual entrances to the garage are on the cross steets Brighton Rose Way and Fenlon St, not Worth Ave. Just keep this in mind once you get to the garage. **Where we'll meet** I'll post in the comments where I am. People will obviously want to explore different areas of the venue over the course of the event (and there's a lot to explore), but please just let me know (as in, come find me) once you've arrived. **Peroration** Come on out and say hi! 😄

Hey Everyone! Let's meet at Paris Baguette on Lane Avenue. There is lots of free parking and easy access to the cafe and many shops and restaurants as well. This is a great way to meet new and old friends while chatting about life and practicing English language speaking skills. All are welcome and encouraged to join us anytime between 11am and 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you soon.

**History** [Blacklick Woods Metro Park](https://www.metroparks.net/parks-and-trails/blacklick-woods/), established in 1949, holds the distinction of being the first Columbus Metro Park. Its creation stemmed from a post-World War II push to preserve natural areas amid rapid suburban growth. The land, originally farmland and woodlots along Blacklick Creek, was acquired by the Columbus Metropolitan Park Board through donations and purchases. Early efforts focused on basic trail development and reforestation to combat erosion. The park's name derives from the creek, which early settlers called "Black Lick" due to its dark, mineral-rich waters. By the 1950s, it served as a model for the expanding Metro Parks system. In the 1960s, Blacklick Woods expanded significantly with additional land acquisitions, reaching over 600 acres. A golf course was added in 1964, one of the first public courses in the region, designed to generate revenue for park maintenance. Native American artifacts, including arrowheads from the Adena culture, were discovered during construction, highlighting the area's prehistoric use as hunting grounds. The park introduced interpretive programs to educate visitors on local ecology and history. Flood control measures along the creek became a priority after heavy rains caused damage. These developments solidified its role as a recreational hub. The 1970s and 1980s brought environmental awareness, leading to habitat restoration projects at Blacklick Woods. Invasive species were removed, and native wildflowers were planted in the meadows. A nature center opened in 1976, featuring exhibits on wetlands and forests. The park's slate-covered bridge, a remnant of 19th-century infrastructure, was preserved as a historic feature. Birdwatching gained popularity with the addition of observation decks. Community volunteers played a key role in trail maintenance and cleanups. During the 1990s, Blacklick Woods underwent major upgrades, including paved multi-use trails for biking and hiking. The Walter A. Tucker Nature Preserve, a 53-acre old-growth forest within the park, was dedicated in 1995 to protect rare beech-maple woodlands. Educational partnerships with local schools introduced field trips on topics like stream ecology. The golf course was renovated to improve playability while minimizing environmental impact. Annual events, such as the fall festival, drew thousands to celebrate the park's natural beauty. These enhancements balanced recreation with conservation. In the 21st century, Blacklick Woods has adapted to increasing visitation with sustainable practices. Solar panels were installed at facilities in the 2010s to reduce energy costs. The park now spans 643 acres, offering diverse habitats from wetlands to uplands. Recent initiatives include pollinator gardens and prescribed burns to maintain prairie areas. It remains a flagship for the Metro Parks, inspiring similar preservations system-wide. Ongoing archaeological surveys continue to uncover traces of early inhabitants. **Map of the Park** Here is a [map of Blacklick Woods](https://www.metroparks.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/BLK-map-May-2025-with-extended-greenway_1980px.jpg). **Summary** For this event, we will hike about 4.5 miles by doing a couple loops of the Buttonbush, Tucker, Maple Loop, and Beech trails. Blacklick Woods is a very nice park, but it is generally flat and not strenuous, so this will be one of the easier hikes that we do. **Where We'll Meet** Drive all the way to the back of the park to the parking lot that is nearest the Nature Center. There are restrooms here next to the Canopy Walk. We'll meet near these restrooms. Speaking of the [Canopy Walk](https://www.metroparks.net/blog/canopy-walk-is-your-gateway-to-the-sky/), it's not officially part of the event this time. However, if interested people want to freelance and check it out after the hike (before heading to the brewery), that's okay. **After the Hike** After we're done with the trails, we'll head to [Prost Beer & Wine Café](https://prostcafe.com/) for drinks and [food](https://prostcafe.com/reynoldsburg-prost-beer-and-wine-cafe-food-menu). The actual address of the brewery is [7354 E Main St, Reynoldsburg, OH 43068](https://www.google.com/maps/place/7354+E+Main+St,+Reynoldsburg,+OH+43068/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8838648cfb8d2dbb:0x545274bab130e9bb?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111), and we should be there by 5:00 if you just want to do that and skip the hike.