Vancouver

**Queer Bridges Language Café // Sprachcafé** with ***Michal*** for **LGBTQIA+** **[Free event with registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/language-cafe/w21-2026)** 🔵 Join us at our Language Café, where you can connect with others and engage in lively conversations. It’s a great opportunity to practice speaking, listening, and even learn some new vocabulary, all while making new friends and having a good time. No matter your level of proficiency, everyone is encouraged to participate and grow together. Come for the conversation, stay for the community! **What languages are represented?** We will have tables for English and German. Beyond that, it will be up to you! We hope to eventually host a wide range of languages and are excited to see this café grow with your support. **What if I don’t feel confident in my language skills?** Our language café is open to everyone, regardless of their language abilities. From beginners to native speakers – we will ensure it is a fun and safe space for everyone. Registration is required as it gives us an idea of how many people to expect and which languages you speak/look forward to practice. However, if you have not registered please feel free to stop by! Join us at our **Language Café**, where you can connect with others and engage in lively conversations. It's a great opportunity to practice speaking, listening, and even learn some new vocabulary, all while making new friends and having a good time. No matter your level of proficiency, everyone is encouraged to participate and grow together. Come for the conversation, stay for the community! *** This meeting is part of our **Queer Bridges** project, aimed at forging connections and providing resources for LGBTQIA+ people with migration experience. *** **General information** * **Language**: This event will be in German and English. * **Registration**: Register on our website by selecting the event, adding it to your cart, and completing checkout. If you have any difficulties registering for the event, you're still welcome to join us, and we will find a solution. * **Cost**: This event is free of charge. 🔵 *Kostenlos mit Anmeldung über unsere Webseite* Kommt zu unserem **Sprachcafé**, wo ihr euch mit anderen austauschen und an lebhaften Gesprächen teilnehmen könnt. Es ist eine großartige Gelegenheit, eure Sprech- und Hörfähigkeiten zu verbessern und neue Wörter zu lernen, während ihr in lockerer Umgebung neue Bekanntschaften knüpft. Egal, wie gut ihr die Sprache könnt, alle sind eingeladen mitzumachen und zusammen zu lernen. Kommt wegen der Gespräche, bleibt wegen der Gemeinschaft! **Welche Sprachen sind vertreten?** Wir werden Tische für Englisch und Deutsch haben. Darüber hinaus liegt es an euch! Wir hoffen, bald viele verschiedene Sprachen anbieten zu können und freuen uns darauf, dieses Café mit eurer Hilfe wachsen zu sehen. **Was, wenn ich mir in meinen Sprachkenntnissen nicht sicher bin?** Unser Sprachcafé ist für alle offen, egal, wie gut ihr die Sprache könnt. Von Anfänger\*innen bis zu Muttersprachler\*innen – wir sorgen dafür, dass es für alle eine lockere und sichere Umgebung ist. *** Dieses Meeting gehört zu unserem **Queer Bridges** Projekt, das darauf abzielt, Verbindungen zu schaffen und Ressourcen für LGBTQIA+ Menschen mit Migrationserfahrung bereitzustellen. *** **Hinweise** * **Sprache**: Dieses Event wird auf Deutsch und Englisch sein. * **Anmeldung**: Melde dich auf unserer Website (für das Event) an, indem du die Veranstaltung auswählst, sie in den Warenkorb legst und dann den Kauf abschließt. Das gilt auch für kostenlose Events. Wenn du irgendwelche Schwierigkeiten hast, dich für eine Veranstaltung anzumelden, kannst du gerne zu uns kommen und wir werden eine Lösung finden. * **Kosten**: Die Teilnahme ist kostenlos.

Bienvenue :) Rejoignez-nous si vous parlez français couramment et aimez rencontrer des gens francophones pour bavarder. A bientôt!

**Meet:** Treptow Sbahn. Outside Sesam Cafe (see pin) **Time:** 18:00 **Distance:** 35km **Theme:** Cycle Loop + History + Social Let’s make the most of the long evenings with some history-themed cycle tours this summer. The idea is to meet up after work, get a little cycle in, see some sights and end in a beer garden. **The Tour** The first destination will be Schöneweider: the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis – where modern electricity was pioneered. (see more on this below). We will – more or less – follow the [route of industrial cultur](https://industriekultur.berlin/erleben/fahrradrouten/wasser-und-strom/)e. First we will head East along the South bank of the River, cruise around the industrial heritage of Schoneweider with a few stories form me, then head back up the North side to the Funk Haus (itself a monument of industrial culture) for a sundowner beer and perhaps a bite to eat at [café Zola](https://maps.app.goo.gl/QpGL6UiyQoZG6Bxv8). After that its lights on for a return journey to Treptow/Freidrichshain – estimated time of arrival 9pm. **The Cycling** 20km loop to start and then a little sightseeing and a gentler pace. As long as you have a reasonable bike and are used to cycling around town, you should be fine to join in. **What to Bring** Spare inner tube for your tyre size, cash, waterproofs, suncream, snacks, a smile. Hope to see you there Simon Schöneweider is the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis. It was here that modern electricity networks were developed by AEG, creating a pioneering electricity generation and transmission system that served as a model for all. Not only did they build the power station and grid running from it, they then went on to build the factories necessary to produce components for the electrification of the cities around the globe. Turbines, lamps, cables, valves and much more were manufactured in this kilometer long stretch of the riverside. Along with it came new residential areas as the population swelled to 26 thousand from virtually nothing in 30 years from the 1890s. Today many of the buildings are derelict, some are under development and others are art spaces or ateliers. All retain their beauty and fascination as monuments to Berlin’s industrial past. Come and explore this unique and lesser-known slice of Berlin’s History together.

## **DNA. Art House presents ''REGGAETON''** ***Andrea Medina*** is a berlin-based dancer and instructs this class. fell in love with dancing at an early age of 9 years old. Since she likes to surround her life with art not only as a hobby but as a way of living, she studied musical language and performing arts. Combining her knowledge with the experience of various dance styles (such as ballet, contemporary, HipHop, afro, popping, bachata, salsa, twerk, etc.): ‍ *''I ensure an exhilarating and enjoyable training session that connects You with Your body and inner strength, all set to the infectious rhythms."* ‍ In each Workshop we will explore different exercises as well as choreographies that will be adapted to the level of each person. ‍ > Join Us for a class full of rhythm, passion & positive energy. ‍ ‍ ##### WHEN: Every Thursday 8 - 9.15 pm (doors: 8 pm, start: 8.15 pm) ‍ ##### DURATION: 1 h ‍ ##### WHERE: [DNA. ART HOUSE](https://maps.app.goo.gl/4XrC8gTPtdDGb3oB6) Wrangelstraße 25 10997 Berlin ‍ ##### WHAT DO YOU NEED: Good Vibes. ‍ ##### LEVEL: Open Level. ##### **COSTS:** Free for DNA. Members / Regular 15 e [> Become a DNA. Member](https://www.dna-artclub.com/dna-member) available: Online Tickets / Box Office ‍ ‍ ‍ See Us Soon. Love. [Andrea Medina](https://www.instagram.com/andreamedinadance/) & DNA. ...for more info check out www.dna-artclub.com / follow us on IG: @nightart.club ______ \*Members of Dair Night Art e.V. and Subscribers of DNA. Art GbR. \*\*By entering the DNA. ART HOUSE, You agree to comply with the Hausordnung of Dair Night Art e.V. and Geschäftsordnung of Dair Night Art e.V. Please ensure You review these documents thoroughly in advance.

### **MOUNTAINS – Stories about the climb** ### **Live Storytelling Night (Berlin)** “It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” — Edmund Hillary Some mountains are made of rock. Some are made of doubt, distance, language, love, grief, ambition, or simply getting out of bed when things feel heavy. This May, THE BEAR invites you to an evening of true personal stories about going uphill — about effort, resistance, resilience, and the quiet (or loud) voice that says: keep going. Our host, Izzy Ahrbeck, returns to Berlin fresh from the landscapes of Patagonia — where the mountains are wild, the wind is real, and every step reminds you that climbing is never just physical. Come as you are. Bring your uphill story. Or simply sit back and listen. We climb together. *** ### 🎤 What this event is An evening of **true, personal storytelling—told live on stage.** No scripts. No acting. No fiction. Just real people sharing real moments when life felt steep: * choosing the harder path * starting again from zero * pushing through thin air * reaching a summit that wasn’t what they expected * almost turning back Some stories will be funny. Some raw. All of them human. Music for the evening comes from Rory, adding sound and atmosphere to our climb. *** ### 💭 Why come? Because storytelling isn’t just entertainment—it’s connection. You’ll leave feeling: * more connected to others * reminded of your own experiences * maybe even inspired to tell your own story *** ### 🐻 How the evening works * **Open Stage** \- We randomly selected storytellers' name from our legendary top hat 👉 Want to tell a story? Put your name in the hat during the evening. First time? Even better. We’re known for being a welcoming space for new storytellers. *** ### 🎤 Want to prepare a story? If you’d like feedback before the event, you can send your idea to: 📩 hello@thebear-storytelling.de When booking, choose a **Storyteller Ticket** so we know you’re interested. 📍 **Venue:** Theatre Pool 📅 **Date:** May 21st 🕖 **Time:** 7:00 pm – 9:30 pm 🗣 Language: English (welcoming to all levels and backgrounds) *** ### [🎟 Tickets](https://www.thebear-storytelling.de/events/2026/05/21/mountains-stories-of-the-climb) Entry is **by donation** (Recommended: €15–20) https://www.thebear-storytelling.de/events/2026/05/21/mountains-stories-of-the-climb Give more if you can, less if you can’t. Everyone is welcome. *** ### 💬 Audience question of the night **Tell us about a time in your life when the path felt steep. What kept you climbing?** *** ### ✨ Final note Whether you’ve climbed mountains, careers, identities, relationships, or invisible inner walls — this night is for you. ## **Our Mission** ## *THE BEAR* **has grown into one of Berlin’s most beloved live storytelling events: a place where strangers become a community through the simple act of listening.** Supported by: [THE BEAR e.V. ](https://deref-web.de/mail/client/3fe0d0dh9KM/dereferrer/?redirectUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fthebear-storytelling.us6.list-manage.com%2Ftrack%2Fclick%3Fu%3Db5d7f087b587f8f081c447437%26id%3Dfc0e2d8df3%26e%3D711d4db9af), [Moving-Speaker.com](https://www.moving-speaker.com/), [Female Speaking Berlin](https://www.femalespeakingberlin.com/), and [Experience Berlin Youtube Channel](https://www.youtube.com/@Berlin-Videos).

Outdoor Tennis-Infos: Max. 4 players on 1 court with licensed tennis coach Fees: 23€ (lesson with licensed tennis coach) Rackets: rent cost free (please notify via Whatsapp or SMS one day in advance) Shoes: Shoes with white sole & without profile. See you on the court ;) The participant becomes a member of the sportclub association Tennis 'n Beach Rhein-Main Wiesbaden e.V. for the duration of the sporting event and accepts with their booking/participation the statutes TnB e.V. and the rules of procedure of the association called Geschäftsordung as well as the data protection rules. statutes TnB e.V.: https://tnb.pythonanywhere.com/static/documents/TnB-Satzung.pdf Geschäftsordnung: https://tnb.pythonanywhere.com/static/documents/TnB-AGB.pdf data protection: https://tnb.pythonanywhere.com/static/documents/TnB-Datenschutzerklaerung.pdf

**Meet:** Treptow Sbahn. Outside Sesam Cafe (see pin) **Time:** 18:00 **Distance:** 35km **Theme:** Cycle Loop + History + Social Let’s make the most of the long evenings with some history-themed cycle tours this summer. The idea is to meet up after work, get a little cycle in, see some sights and end in a beer garden. **The Tour** The first destination will be Schöneweider: the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis – where modern electricity was pioneered. (see more on this below). To get there we will take a lovely piece of new cycle lane along the new ring road and loop out. Then its back up to Schoneweide and – more or less – follow the [route of industrial cultur](https://industriekultur.berlin/erleben/fahrradrouten/wasser-und-strom/)e. First we will head East along the South bank of the River, cruise around the industrial heritage of Schoneweider with a few stories form me, then head back up the North side to the Funk Haus (itself a monument of industrial culture) for a sundowner beer and perhaps a bite to eat at [café Zola](https://maps.app.goo.gl/QpGL6UiyQoZG6Bxv8). After that its lights on for a return journey to Treptow/Freidrichshain – estimated time of arrival 9pm. **The Cycling** 20km loop to start and then a little sightseeing and a gentler pace. As long as you have a reasonable bike and are used to cycling around town, you should be fine to join in. **What to Bring** Spare inner tube for your tyre size, cash, waterproofs, suncream, snacks, a smile. Hope to see you there Simon Schöneweider is the home of Berlin’s Elektropolis. It was here that modern electricity networks were developed by AEG, creating a pioneering electricity generation and transmission system that served as a model for all. Not only did they build the power station and grid running from it, they then went on to build the factories necessary to produce components for the electrification of the cities around the globe. Turbines, lamps, cables, valves and much more were manufactured in this kilometer long stretch of the riverside. Along with it came new residential areas as the population swelled to 26 thousand from virtually nothing in 30 years from the 1890s. Today many of the buildings are derelict, some are under development and others are art spaces or ateliers. All retain their beauty and fascination as monuments to Berlin’s industrial past. Come and explore this unique and lesser-known slice of Berlin’s History together.

Meet up and join other people in Berlin this Saturday! Whether you're a long-time resident or just travelling through, come and meet new people to have fun, make new friends and enjoy your Saturday evening in a safe and welcoming environment at one of Berlins fantastic bars. This week we're heading to Cassiopeia Sommergarten (link to location below). Looking forward to seeing you there! Look out for the signs on tables with our logo on. We always have several organisers there (male and female), so come say hello to us! We care to make sure that everyones enjoys themselves and we have no tolerance for bad behaviour or creepiness. Follow us on Insta: @siphappens.berlin Join us on Telegram: t.me/siphappens_berlin 👉 Other important notes: * 🍸 The locations we visit are bars and clubs, they are businesses and we are able to keep these events free ONLY if people buy drinks. Please respect the locations and the event by making purchases. * 🦹‍♂️ Remember to keep an eye on your belongings and prioritize your own well-being. We are not responsible for any lost items or personal issues. * 📷 By attending our events, you consent to being photographed or filmed. Photos and videos taken during the events may be shared on our social media. If you do not wish to appear in the photos or if you appear in a photo that we post that you would like removed, please send us a private message as soon as possible on Instagram (@siphappens.berlin).

Silent Book Club is a group of book lovers who enjoy reading together in public. All books and all readers are welcome. (Kindly RSVP 'yes' only if you can make it, so we can save a seat for you and our fellow readers on the waitlist!) This page-turning party will unfold in the Café (1st floor) at the Bode Museum. There's no entrance fee, but please order at least one item from the cafe and don't bring any outside drinks :) No quizzes, no pressure, no assigned books - just a group of book-loving souls basking in the beauty of silent reading. **Our thrilling agenda:** 10:30 am - 11:00 am - Arrivals, ordering drinks/food (social time) 11:00 am - 12:00 pm - The Great Quiet Reading Hour (where silence is the star) 12:00 pm - 12:30 pm - Optional socializing, share your reading adventures or just keep exploring the pages Stay for lunch, and who knows? You might just find your next favorite book over a pizza. NB: If you plan to go for lunch, please consider bringing cash, as some restaurants only accept card payments after a certain amount.

**Combining a variety of TopRock break dance moves in the format of HIIT training, this class will be like no other you have taken! Specifically created with non-break dancers in mind, this class is fun, engaging and totally beginner friendly!** 🤸‍♀️ *What exactly is TopRock you might be asking?* Toprock is the **standup part of breakdance**. When break-dancers are showing their skills, they will often start with toprock. Beginners often find toprock to be easier than other elements of [breaking](http://%5Bhttps//www.mygrooveguide.com/dance-info/breaking/what-is-breaking%5D(https://www.mygrooveguide.com/dance-info/breaking/what-is-breaking) "breaking"), because it is done standing up. So this will be a great introduction to breaking for beginners or those wishing to expand their breakdance skills. **Taught by 3x Breakdance World Champion and Choreographer of Flying Dreams show at Wintergarten, Bboy Lou.Ease of the Flying Steps! He has also worked with contemporary dance companies such as Akram Khan Company, Wang Ramirez and Constanza Marcras / Dorkypark.** **📋 Agenda:** * *Check in will begin 15 minutes prior to class*. Please arrive on time to ensure class starts at the designated time. **💸 Cost**: *Donation based* **to help with maintaining the venue and group maintenance costs.** **👉 Other Things to Note:** * *Class will be in English/German* * *Please make sure to wear comfortable clothes you can move and sweat in. Shoes should also be comfortable, although they are not mandatory. Feel free to dance barefoot or in socks if you like.* * *Bring a water bottle to refresh between sequence breaks.* * *Changing room/clothes storage and toilets provided on site free of charge.* * ***If you RSVP and are unable to make it, please be considerate and cancel 24 hours in advance to make space for someone else.***

**Village Potluck** organized by the **[we are village](https://wearevillage.org/) volunteers team** for **LGBTQAI+ Friends** **Free event with [registration](https://wearevillage.org/en/shop/potluck/w20-2026)** 🔵 Spending time together! With this in mind, the Village invites you to take part in this free event, have a laugh and make new friends. Just bring a dish of your choice (if possible) and we’ll eat & drink together in a relaxed atmosphere. You are also welcome to invite your friends. A casual opportunity to spend a great time together at the Village – indoors and in the garden. This event will be in German and/or English depending on participant needs. 🔵 Gemeinsam Zeit verbringen! In diesem Sinne lädt dich das Village dazu ein, an diesem kostenlosen Event teilzunehmen, zu genießen, zu lachen und neue Freundschaften zu schließen. Bring einfach etwas zu Essen deiner Wahl mit (wenn möglich) und wir essen & trinken zusammen in gemütlicher, lockerer Runde. Gerne kannst du auch deine Freunde dazu einladen – eine gute Gelegenheit zusammen eine tolle Zeit im Village zu verbringen – drinnen und im Garten. Dieses Event wird je nach Teilnehmerbedürfnissen auf Deutsch und/oder Englisch sein.

**Men50+ _ Leben in Farbe** mit *Florian Filtzinger* für **LGBTQIA+** **[kostenlos mit Anmeldung](https://wearevillage.org/shop/men50plus/w21-2026/)** Queere Menschen über 50 sehen sich in einer von Jugendlichkeit, körperlicher Attraktivität und Heteronormativität geprägten Gesellschaft mit verschiedenen Problemen konfrontiert. In dieser Gruppe triffst du auf Gleichgesinnte. Gemeinsam wollen wir die Herausforderungen des Älterwerdens annehmen – und das Leben in vollen Zügen genießen!*out the program [here](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness).* Selbst in der queeren Community kann es „Altersdiskriminierung“ geben, bei der ältere Menschen als weniger relevant oder interessant angesehen werden. Auch der Mangel an familiären Strukturen oder Freund:innen kann in der Lebensmitte zu Isolation führen. In dieser Gruppe triffst du auf Gleichgesinnte, die sich ebenfalls mit den Herausforderungen des Älterwerdens auseinandersetzen. Hier können wir uns gegenseitig stärken, Erfahrungen teilen und voneinander lernen. Gemeinsam wollen wir die Herausforderungen des Älterwerdens annehmen – und das Leben in vollen Zügen genießen! **Sprache**: Dieser Workshop wird auf Deutsch gehalten, damit alle teilnehmen können, unabhängig von euren Englischkenntnissen. Ein grundlegendes Verständnis der deutschen Sprache wird dir helfen, aktiv teilzunehmen. **Kosten**: Die Veranstaltung ist kostenlos mit Anmeldung. *\*\* Diese Veranstaltung ist Teil unseres Programms ‘****[Gemeinsam statt einsam](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness)****‘, unterstützt von der* ***[LADS](https://www.berlin.de/sen/lads/en/)****.* *Erfahre mehr über das Programm* ***[hier](https://wearevillage.org/village-quartiere/addressing-queer-lonliness)****.*

This is a 3 phase meetup. You can come at any time. 1.) 6:30 - 7:00 p.m.: Gathering at the meeting spot (see link and photo!). 2.) 7:00 - 7:30 p.m.: Walk & Talk through Tiergarten. 3.) 7:30 - 10:00 p.m.: Immerse conversations in the Zollpackhof beer garden (reserved tables for the meetup). **1.) Meeting spot is Henriette Herz Park.** Copy the coordinates into your maps app: **52°30'38.9"N 13°22'24.1"E** The exact meeting spot can also be seen in the photo depicted below (see red arrow). Look for a meetup sign or organizer wearing a black or red lanyard with "staff" written on it. **Best ways to get there:** 1\. S\-Bahn: Get off at Potsdamer Platz by S1, S2 or S25 and walk to the designated meeting spot. 2\. U\-Bahn \(subway\): Alternatively you can get off at Potsdamer Platz by U2 and just walk 5 min straight to the park. 3\. Bus: If you change at mainstation you can take the M41 or M85 to S Potsdamer Platz /Voßstr. and walk to the park. **2.) Walk & Talk through Tiergarten** (the best part imho). During these weird times it essential to connect with nature and like minded people. You will feel instantly energized and an inner calmness afterwards. **3.) How to the find the Zollpackhof beer garden:** https://goo.gl/maps/vDYYaJcFvTmd7hei7 Elisabeth-Abegg-Straße 1, 10557 Berlin We will be sitting outside. Click the gmaps link with the exact meeting spot if you can can't find us! If you enter from the Magnus-Hirschfeld-Ufer, just go to the left part of the beer garden where the self-service is. If you enter from Elisabeth-Abegg-Str, enter the beer garden from the right. *Who is this meetup for:* 1\. Asians who want to practice German and/or English\. 2\. German speaking individuals who are studying \(preferably\) Japanese\, Korean\, Mandarin or Cantonese\. 3\. Anyone who is interested in cultural exchange and wants to socialize\. *What you can expect:* 1\. A professionally organized meetup that can adapt to any changes given the current situation\. 2\. A Walk & Talk to break the ice\. 3\. A collaborating venue where you can further socialize with other members\. *important: This event is at the same time and meeting location like the "Networking & Language Exchange - international" one. So I'm basically organizing 2 events at the same time which means that you can expect way more people than on the list.* *** Whenever you attend a meetup, the most common as well as first question you get is: "Where are you from?" You probably heard this question a million times. Well, at least I did. From my own experience of attending over 200 international meetups in various countries such as Germany, Japan, Australia and Thailand, I can tell you that asking for the name is a better approach. “A person’s name is to that person, the sweetest, most important sound in any language.” - Dale Carnegie If you really want to connect with like-minded people you should remember their name, but you don't have to remember every persons name you've talked you. Be picky about that, don't be me who can somehow remember everyones name easily. Don't tell yourself sth. like "I'm bad at remembering names." It's all about developing the habit of asking for a name and keep the conversation going on. Furthermore, you want to learn German or any other language. Learning the local language is crucial to connect with the locals and developing a true friendship. This can be accomplished with immersion. My goal is to inspire you to go out of your comfort zone and improve yourself each time you join this meetup.

This is a 3 phase meetup. You can come at any time. 1.) 6:30 - 7:00 p.m.: Gathering at the meeting spot (see link and photo!). 2.) 7:00 - 7:30 p.m.: Walk & Talk through Tiergarten. 3.) 7:30 - 10:00 p.m.: Immerse conversations in the Zollpackhof beer garden (reserved tables for the meetup). **1.) Meeting spot is Henriette Herz Park.** Copy the coordinates into your maps app: **52°30'38.9"N 13°22'24.1"E** The exact meeting spot can also be seen in the photo. Look for a meetup sign or organizer wearing a black or red lanyard with "staff" written on it. **Best ways to get there:** 1\. S\-Bahn: Get off at Potsdamer Platz by S1, S2 or S25 and walk to the designated meeting spot. 2\. U\-Bahn \(subway\): Alternatively you can get off at Potsdamer Platz by U2 and just walk 5 min straight to the park. 3\. Bus: If you change at mainstation you can take the M41 or M85 to S Potsdamer Platz /Voßstr. and walk to the park. **2.) Walk & Talk through Tiergarten** (the best part imho). During these weird times it essential to connect with nature and like minded people. You will feel instantly energized and an inner calmness afterwards. **3.) How to the find the Zollpackhof beer garden:** https://goo.gl/maps/vDYYaJcFvTmd7hei7 Elisabeth-Abegg-Straße 1, 10557 Berlin We will be sitting outside. Click the gmaps link with the exact meeting spot if you can can't find us! If you enter from the Magnus-Hirschfeld-Ufer, just go to the left part of the beer garden where the self-service is. If you enter from Elisabeth-Abegg-Str, enter the beer garden from the right. *Who is this meetup for:* 1\. Internationals who want to practice German or any other language\. 2\. Germans who want to improve their language skills\. 3\. Anyone who is interested in cultural exchange and wants to socialize\. *What you can expect:* 1\. A professionally organized meetup that can adapt to any changes given the current situation\. 2\. A Walk & Talk to break the ice\. 3\. A collaborating venue where you can further socialize with other members\. *important:* This event is at the same time and meeting location like the "Asian Languages & Culture Exchange 日本語, 한국어, 汉语" one. So I'm basically organizing 2 events at the same time which means that you can expect way more people than on the list. *** Whenever you attend a meetup, the most common as well as first question you get is: "Where are you from?" You probably heard this question a million times. Well, at least I did. From my own experience of attending over 200 international meetups in various countries such as Germany, Japan, Australia and Thailand, I can tell you that asking for the name is a better approach. “A person’s name is to that person, the sweetest, most important sound in any language.” - Dale Carnegie If you really want to connect with like-minded people you should remember their name, but you don't have to remember every persons name you've talked you. Be picky about that, don't be me who can somehow remember everyones name easily. Don't tell yourself sth. like "I'm bad at remembering names." It's all about developing the habit of asking for a name and keep the conversation going on. Furthermore, you want to learn German or any other language. Learning the local language is crucial to connect with the locals and developing a true friendship. This can be accomplished with immersion. My goal is to inspire you to go out of your comfort zone and improve yourself each time you join this meetup.

**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.

**💥 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/) Or Text Todd: 614-774-8146

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

**🔥 Lincoln Street Salsa HAS MOVED TO EVERY FRIDAY, NO MORE SATURDAYS!** **🔥 Lincoln Street Salsa @ 1717 Brice Rd, Reynoldsburg 43068** **🔥 Salsa, Bachata, Merengue Dancing!** **🔥 NO PARTNER OR EXPERIENCE NEEDED!** **🔥 Every FRIDAY, 8 pm - 1 am** **🔥 8:00 pm - 8:30 pm = Registration** **🔥 8:30 pm - 9:30 pm = Beginner Dance Class** **🔥 9:30 pm - 1:00 am = Open Dance Party** **🔥 LincolnStreetSalsa.com** **🔥 Questions? Text Todd 614-774-8146**

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."

**✅ Salsa Wednesdays with Todd Smith!** **👉 Beginner Salsa Class** **$15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 7:00 pm – 7:15 pm … Registration 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm … Beginner Class **👉 Intermediate Salsa Class** **= $15 In Advance / $20 At the Door** 8:15 pm – 8:30 pm Registration 8:30 pm – 9:30 pm Intermediate Class **👉 If You Take Both Salsa Classes** **= $25 In Advance / $35 At the Door** **👉 Buy Advance Tickets Now at:** https://columbussalsadancing.com/salsa-wednesdays-dance-class-tickets/ **👉 Questions? Text Todd @ (614) 774-8146**

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!