Urban Exploration

Bring your lights for the “Friday Night” Skate! **Join us for the Friday Night Skate!** See the monuments of DC all lit up at night! We will meet at the National World War I Memorial “Pershing Park” at 7pm. We’ll warm up with a nice easy skate to the Capital and skate along the mall and museums to the National Monument. We will then head to the Lincoln Memorial through the World War II Memorial. Those interested in just a 5.5 mile skate can backtrack to Pershing Park. The group will then proceed from the Lincoln to Haynes Point via Ohio Drive with the option to take the 3 mile loop (12 mile total skate) or sit by the water and enjoy the crisp air (8.5 mile total skate.) There are three options to loop back to the Pershing Park WWI Memorial and our path back will depend on the preferences / skill of the group. The skate is mostly flat on good pavement with a small slope coming down from the Washington Monument and a 40 yard small slop from the Lincoln to Ohio Drive. If skaters are more advanced we will cross the 14th St bridge, enjoy a few up and down hills and finish with a downhill through the 12th St. tunnel. Please feel free to jazz it up with lights, I wear a helmet bike light, a fun set of lights and lighted wheels! Wear your lights so you have fun, can see and be seen! In case of bad weather, I will cancel the skate by 6pm on this post. **Of course, all skating is at your own risk.**

* **Would you like to look deeper into the source of life?** * **Do you want to find your own answers to everyday questions?** * **Singing HU can bring you Love, Happiness, and Stability** **You’re warmly invited to join us at our** **Friday HU Chant at 7:00 pm** **You will be welcome to chant out loud or simply listen, whatever is right for you. The chant lasts about 20 minutes, followed by brief contemplative time and conversation with others of like heart.** **Attend In-Person at:** **The Maryland Eckankar Center** **1738 Elton Rd., Suite 104** **Silver Spring, MD 20903** **(Doors open at 6:30 pm)** **For more information:** **Call or text: (301)439-2120** **MEC@eckankarmaryland.org** **Presented by the DC & Maryland Satsang Societies, Inc. Chartered Affiliates of ECKANKAR.** **Copyright © 2025 ECKANKAR. The terms ECKANKAR, ECK, EK, MAHANTA, SOUL TRAVEL, and VAIRAGI, among others, are trademarks of ECKANKAR, PO Box 2000, Chanhassen, MN 55317-2000 U.S.A.**

To Attend: 1. RSVP; then 2. Register at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051) Experience a unique African cultural evening on foreign soil as we travel halfway across the world without ever leaving the DMV. Join us for a special night of Angolan food, drinks, music, cultural dancing, diplomats, film, and more! Dress semi-smart business casual and enjoy this unique party with the Ambassador and his staff at this African treasure. Featuring: 1. **Angolan Buffet** 2. **Bar:** Sample the best and most unique African beverages. 3. **Special Native Angolan Presentation:** Celebrate the hits from an Angolan DJ and a performance by Angolan Dancers! Dance Lessons and late evening dancing are encouraged! 4. **Diplomatic Greeting:** Hear from the HE Agostinho de Carvalho dos Santos Van-Dúnem and feel free to schmooze with the diplomatic staff from Angola **5\. Angolan Art:** Throughout the Embassy, the Embassy has arranged for the presentation of special African artifacts and paintings unseen by most Americans’ eyes 6. **Angolan Cultural Film:** At your leisure, you are invited to watch recurring films showcasing cities, mountains, borders, landscape, people, tribes, animals (esp. their gorillas), safari tours, everyday culture, and much more. Note: The *event is presented as a cultural event organized by us at the Embassy of Angola. Your registration fee is used by Things to do DC solely to present diverse cultural events to our membership. No part of the admission fee is related in any way to the Embassy of Angola or staff at the Embassy of Angola. We appreciate your support of our events!* ## Suggested Attire Business Casual. Preppy at a Minimum. (Jeans, Tee Shirts, Sneakers or other Casual Wear are not Acceptable) To Attend: 1. RSVP; then 2. Register at: [https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051](https://www.eventbrite.com/e/evening-at-the-embassy-of-angola-tickets-1986939005051)

**Unlocking the Power of the Gospel: A Journey Through the Book of Romans** Are you looking to deepen your understanding of the Christian faith and experience the life-changing power of the Gospel? Join us for an inspiring and in-depth study of the **Book of Romans**, often called the "Greatest Letter Ever Written." Romans is a masterpiece of theology, grace, and practical living. Whether you are a lifelong believer or someone just beginning to explore the depths of Scripture, this study will offer fresh insights into God's plan for humanity and His incredible love for you. ### **Why Study Romans?** * **Discover the Foundation:** Understand the core truths of salvation, justification by faith, and the transformative power of God's grace. * **Find Strength in Truth:** Explore how the "Chief Cornerstone" provides a firm foundation for our lives, no matter what challenges we face. * **Practical Transformation:** Learn how to move from theological understanding to everyday devotion, living as "living sacrifices" in a modern world. * **Build Community:** Connect with fellow students and seekers as we journey together through Paul’s most profound letter. ### **What to Expect** Each session will feature engaging teaching, thought-provoking group discussions, and a warm environment where questions are welcomed. We will move beyond just "reading" the text to truly *investigating* how these ancient truths apply to our contemporary walk with God. **Come and see why this book has sparked every major spiritual awakening in history.** Let’s grow in faith, speak the truth in love, and be built together into a community centered on Christ. **We can’t wait to meet you there!**

Join us Friday evening for the Bethesda Art Walk! From 6 - 8pm you can enjoy a guided short walking tour of five participating galleries and studios in downtown Bethesda. Meet the artists, view the art, and enjoy light refreshments at each stop! We'll start at Gallery B's 2026 Bethesda Painting Awards! There were more than 500 talented applicants this year, and the jury awarded 4 prizes. Amy Kaslow is exhibiting the work of two Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonists with some of the finest lampoons called “What’s So Funny?” Syndicated cartoonists Nick Anderson and Mike Luckovich take daily swipes in newspapers and summon us to reflect and repair. Triangle Art Studios is excited to welcome guest artist Alexis Limpiado! She is a Philippine-born artist now based in Frederick, MD. Studio B is always fun with their inventive artists as is Waverly Street Gallery where we will finish. If there's interest, we can grab a bite at Andy's Pizza. (USA plays its first World Cup match at 9 pm.) Want to find out what's on exhibit at each location? Visit this [website](https://www.bethesda.org/bethesda-art-walk/) to learn more!

Please note the specific date and times of the Amtrak trains below when booking your ticket to Richmond. We are traveling to/from Richmond Main Street station, so please double check before booking your ticket (there are multiple amtrak stations in Richmond) 6/13 (DC --> Richmond): 7:00 am (Union Station) --> 7:18 am (Alexandria) --> 9:32 am (Richmond Main Street Station) 6/13 (Richmond --> DC): 4:49 pm (Richmond Main Street Station) --> 7:28 pm (Alexandria) --> 7:52 pm (Union Station) Let's take a day trip to visit our neighbor to the South: Richmond, VA. We'll take the Amtrak train from Union Station (or Alexandria VA) to meet at Main Street station in Richmond. After exploring the city, we'll grab a bite to eat before catching the train back to DC Sites we'll visit: \- Belle Isle \- James River \- Old Pump House \- Maymont Mansion \+ Gardens \- Virginia Museum of Fine Arts \(Free Admission\) Part I (1.8 miles) - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/crb5dBD8qgPhAeee7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/crb5dBD8qgPhAeee7 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/crb5dBD8qgPhAeee7") Part II (6.2 miles) - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/JQ9X5jgspKGZQXrP8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/JQ9X5jgspKGZQXrP8 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/JQ9X5jgspKGZQXrP8") Part III (4.2 miles) - [https://maps.app.goo.gl/YKK5zTjuFDJ3WjrE7](https://maps.app.goo.gl/YKK5zTjuFDJ3WjrE7 "https://maps.app.goo.gl/YKK5zTjuFDJ3WjrE7")

Even though this is posted as a meetup event, this is a self-guided experience, we wont be walking as a group. Let's visit the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, one of Washington's most beautiful and underrated landmarks. We'll explore the monastery's stunning architecture, peaceful gardens, catacombs, grottos, and replicas of famous Holy Land sites. Often described as a hidden oasis in the city, this unique destination offers a fascinating blend of history, art, culture, and tranquility. Whether you're interested in architecture, photography, spirituality, history, or simply discovering new places and meeting great people, you're welcome to join us. **Cost:** Free **Who can attend:** Everyone is welcome, regardless of faith background. Please dress respectfully, as this is an active religious site. ### What makes it unique? * **A "Holy Land in America"** – It was created so Americans could experience replicas of important Christian sites in Jerusalem and the Holy Land without traveling overseas. * **Underground catacombs** – Few places in DC have catacombs. Walking through them feels like stepping into another era. * **Hidden gardens and grottos** – The 40+ acre grounds are filled with rose gardens, quiet pathways, fountains, and secluded prayer spaces. Many visitors are surprised such a peaceful retreat exists in the middle of the city. * **Architectural variety** – The monastery combines elements inspired by churches and shrines from the Middle East, Europe, and early Christianity. * **A living monastery** – Franciscan friars still live and worship there, so it is not just a museum or historic site. ### Why is it historically important? * The Franciscans have been custodians of many Christian holy sites in the Holy Land for nearly 800 years. * The monastery was founded in the late 1800s as the American headquarters supporting those missions. * It helped make pilgrimage experiences accessible to people who could not afford the long journey to Jerusalem. ### Why do non-religious visitors enjoy it? Even if you're not religious, the monastery offers: * Beautiful architecture and art * Excellent photography opportunities * A fascinating glimpse into history and world cultures * One of the quietest and most serene places in DC * A chance to explore hidden tunnels, chapels, and gardens that most tourists never see Many people visit expecting a church and leave feeling like they've discovered a secret European monastery tucked away in Washington. That's why it is often described as one of DC's most underrated attractions.

Let's enjoy a delicious Egyptian lunch! From the beginning, Fava Pot kept their eyes on the prize: serving the best of healthy, home-style Egyptian cuisine in an atmosphere that would make their customers feel like they were amongst a family. They do this by sourcing high-quality ingredients to cook their authentic meals. That means serving locally sourced foods such as chicken and game hens that are antibiotic-free and succulent meats that are grass-fed. And they also offer what more and more of our customers were asking for: delicious vegetarian and gluten-free options. Their motto has always been Eat Healthy for a Good Cause -through every purchase you make, they give back to Egyptian orphans in need. There is lots of free parking!

Capital City Social is at Dirty Habit’s courtyard for an elevated outdoor social that is curated for DC’s creative, professional, and social crowd. **👇RSVP HERE FOR ENTRY 👇** [REGISTER HERE FOR ENTRY](https://posh.vip/f/70573?t=meetup) ✦ WHAT’S INCLUDED 🍾 Welcome drink ticket on arrival — wine or beer included with every ticket 🌴 Access to Dirty Habit’s courtyard for their pop-up Tiki bar (perfect for summer) 🎮 Light social programming and icebreakers with exclusive prizes 📸 Professional photography throughout the evening 👥 A room full of DMV professionals, locals, and newcomers who actually showed up ✦ DRESS CODE 👗 Summer linens, tailored neutrals, cream tones. think European summer ✦ THE DETAILS 📍 Dirty Habit Courtyard — Kimpton Hotel Monaco 555 8th St NW, Washington DC ⏰ 5:00 PM — 8:00 PM 🌅 Look for the Capital City Social sign at the courtyard entrance ✦ GOOD TO KNOW 💳 Dirty Habit applies a 20% auto-gratuity to all bar tabs — plan accordingly 📸 Photographers will be present — by attending you consent to photos being used for Capital City Social content 📋 All attendees agree to our community [terms and standards](https://docs.google.com/document/u/1/d/e/2PACX-1vS3KSK5lP-hDyGynBgCvOEotnuXv7s92BI72K0ZPMPyn5qXW7ODT4n8lOJvnhkkdqX9Kf0m5f7ucKaM/pub) to keep the group safe, welcoming, and fun for all 🚫 No athletic wear. Dress code is non-negotiable. ✦ FOLLOW THE COMMUNITY Stay in the loop for every drop, early bird alert, and future event. 📱 Instagram: @capitalcitysocial Tickets are non-refundable.

Let’s meet and wander the galleries! General admission on Sundays is free.

Let's stroll the artists' booths and enjoy some of the festival's opening day! The Columbus Art Festival features a wide and vibrant range of visual art from local and national exhibitors, plus, live music, and all kinds of food and refreshments, along the waterfront downtown. (The featured painting is by Columbus Art Festival exhibitor, Joe Engel - joe-engelart.com)

Who else is ready to sit outside? Join us for a casual chat over coffee & tea at Grandview Grind! Come out and meet some new people, enjoy your favorite drink, and make some new friends!

Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Crimson Cup Coffee Shop - Clintonville](https://www.crimsoncup.com/about/location/clintonville)!

Let's grab some coffee/food and share a morning chat! The East Market has an ample parking lot and outdoor and indoor seating. Grab a cup of coffee from Winston's Coffee & Waffles or on your way to East Market and meet us on the second floor - table behind or east of the elevator. Per what this group is about: "Everyone is welcome! International transplants to Columbus who want to improve language skills, Columbus residents who enjoy talking to people from other countries, and those who would like to discuss international travel and culture, and who enjoy getting together for good conversations."

The restaurant’s website doesn’t have the dinner menu listed. I took a picture of the dinner menu.