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Walking with Friends

Meet other local people interested in Walking with Friends: share experiences, inspire and encourage each other! Join a Walking with Friends group.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes! Check out walking with friends events happening today here. These are in-person gatherings where you can meet fellow enthusiasts and participate in activities right now.

Discover all the walking with friends events taking place this week here. Plan ahead and join exciting meetups throughout the week.

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Walking with Friends Events Today

Join in-person Walking with Friends events happening right now

Ultimate Frisbee at Lincoln Tower Park
Ultimate Frisbee at Lincoln Tower Park
Casual Boardgames - make friends, then beat them in games
Casual Boardgames - make friends, then beat them in games
Welcome to Casual Boardgames, where we enjoy classic tabletop games and social deduction games while bonding over good food, drinks, and great conversations. โ€ฉWe started this group to meet new people and make new friends, and bonding over games in a relaxed atmosphere is a great way to do that. We currently meet near route 23 and Polaris Parkway, and this is close to areas like Powell, Lewis Center, Worthington, and parts of Westerville and Columbus. โ€ฉFeel free to bring your own games or play one of the many games our members bring. If you are inexperienced, we will help you learn. โ€ฉHere are just a few examples of the kind of games we play. โ€ฉTabletop/board games: Splendor, Catan, Azul, Dominion, 7 Wondersโ€ฆ โ€ฉSocial deduction games: Code Names, Chameleon, Werewordsโ€ฆ โ€ฉIMPORTANT: โ€ฉ1. While we love playing a variety of games and competing, we are not just about the games. We interact and talk while playing, and this leads to a lot of laughter and fun. If you just want to compete and focus solely on the game, then this is probably not the group you are looking for. โ€ฉ2. Many people join groups like this and never (or rarely) show up after weeks or months. If you join and never really come, we will eventually remove you from the group as a courtesy to our members. Why? Because limiting group conversations (on the app) to regular members makes communication and planning much easier. Also, while it may be rare, it protects members from people who join because they are interested in following a person instead of having a real interest in our group. If you get removed, it is just because you havenโ€™t come, and we follow this protocol as a courtesy to our regular game players.
Iron Lung_(Showing 1)_Group Watch and Socialize Event
Iron Lung_(Showing 1)_Group Watch and Socialize Event
[MOVIE DESCRIPTION BELOW] *Survivors of the apocalypse send a convict in a small submarine to explore a desolate moon that's an ocean of blood.* \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ **PLEASE SEE GROUP BIO FOR FULL FAQ. Meetup only allows a certain amount of characters when posting events from a mobile device and out FAQ is longer than that limit. A condensed version is posted below here** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ First-time attendees: below are some Frequently Asked Questions about events for your consideration: * **What is involved in this type of event? (_Group Watch & Socialize Event)** * We typically arrive before the movie, maybe chat and catch up with folks a bit, watch the movie in the theater, then afterwards have a more extended chat with everyone who saw the movie. * **Do I have to chat before the movie?** * Nope! Totally understandable if you'd rather just watch first so you can have something in common to discuss afterwards. * **Will people approach me/talk to me?** * Not a guarantee as it depends on who is hosting, but a good host or other group members will try to at least say hi to members after the movie and may make an effort to include newer faces in the conversation in some way. Please feel free to jump into the conversation as you feel comfortable and understand this is done with good intent :) We are happy to have you! * **How will I know who is the host or where people are gathering to talk about the movie?** * This depends on each host, but good practice is for the host to indicate a notable item of clothing they are wearing for other members to look out for. But generally we gather in a loose circle in the theater lobby or outside the theater to talk, so if you recognize the host or other group members - that's the spot we've decided on! Just kind of depends on the feel of the group where we gather. * **What is with posting the seat numbers?** * A good practice we've found is to post our seat numbers when we have ordered tickets for a movie. This is just another way for members of our group to find each other as it might not be immediately obvious who is here as part of the group event: some events are at public movie theaters, after all. You are not by any means obligated to post your seat number if you do not feel comfortable doing so, just something we've found that works nicely for encouraging some socialization. * **Will there be food?** * General guideline: if the movie starts at 7ish pm or later, you might wanna have dinner first or plan on buying movie snacks. Restaurant kitchens tend to close around 9-10pm. We sometimes do go to restaurants after movies as a group, but moreso bars whose kitchens may or may not be open. Plus, kind of bad manners for a group to descend upon a bar when the kitchen is closing is 10 minutes lol. Bars are just convenient social places, there is zero pressure to drink but there just aren't many places open late when we may leave movies. There is potential to order or provide food for group events, but it should not be expected unless stated in the event description. * **How do I stay in contact with the group after the movie?** * We have another app we use for discussion because Meetup is somewhat cumbersome to use for casual conversation. The app we use is called Discord. The link is posted below: * Link: https://discord.gg/4r7QxzmSvH * [Place link here] \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ * **Can I create events as a member?** * Initially, no but this group is open to members suggesting events or becoming part of the Event Organizers over time. We don't want to open the opportunity for everybody initially to create events because that kind of role has some responsibility towards it. There are certain permissions granted to that role that not every member should have. However, if a member has a proven track record of treating every group member with due respect, and a willingness to plan events: they can become and Event Organizer and create their own events. Please reach out to leadership if this sounds like something that would interest you. * **Can I donate to the group?** * Absolutely! See group bio
LOCATION CHANGE! Hike Scioto Audubon Trail with optional lunch at Nocterra
LOCATION CHANGE! Hike Scioto Audubon Trail with optional lunch at Nocterra
Changing to Scioto Audubon as trails have been plowed there. May be some blow over or slippery spots though. Iโ€™m wearing traction devices and using poles just to be safe. Plan on about 3 miles. Lunch after at Nocterra for those who wish.
Pop-up Book Club: A Streetcar Named Desire, by Tennessee Williams
Pop-up Book Club: A Streetcar Named Desire, by Tennessee Williams
Letโ€™s meet and discuss whatever comes to mind about one of Tennesse Williamsโ€™ most famous plays.
Let's Fondue!
Let's Fondue!
Yes, the [Chocolate Cafรฉ](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/menu-1?menu=signature-desserts) serves chocolate fondue *(Chocolate Fondue Day is Feb 5th)*! No one does chocolate fondue like they do. It's rich, creamy, and served with an array of fresh fruit and other dipping items. They encourage making it a party! A perfect winter warmup to share with friends! **Chocolate Fondue Kit:** Served with dippers, including marshmallows, Rice Krispie treats, graham crackers, pound cake, strawberries, and pretzels. **COST**: Bring ***$5.00 cash*** to cover your portion of our delightful dessert bar. **EARLY ARRIVALS**: Go ahead and order dinner (before dessert). I love their toasted sandwiches and their soups. **PARKING**: In our parking lot, on the street (but not between 4-6 pm) or behind the Buckeye State Building. [Chocolate Cafe](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/): A fully stocked amount of *chocolate candies* including truffles, chocolate covered pretzels and chocolate and caramel turtles. We have menu options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Join us for brunch or a late night meal. Soups, salads & sandwiches served daily. Check out our [menu](https://www.chocolatecafecolumbus.com/_files/ugd/7ea733_0ebab62dcfc0435aa189b6d1a3c3ec82.pdf) for more information. We also offer wine, martinis and cocktails! Enjoy a *famous chocolate martini* or hand crafted cocktail, too!

Walking with Friends Events This Week

Discover what is happening in the next few days

Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
Walk & Talk About Life's Big Questions
[The Board Walks](http://www.theboardwalks.com/) are for curious people who love deep conversations. If that sounds like you, **bring a thoughtful topic** and join us for a 5-mile walk (10,000+ steps!). **HOW IT WORKS** **Step 1: Bring a topic** Before you arrive, think of **one** topic you want to explore. A question. A thought that's been on your mind. An obsession you want to geek out on. This is your ticket to the event. **Step 2: Circle up & share** We gather in a circle. Your friendly walk host gives a speech to set the tone. Everyone shares: your name, what you're grateful for, and your topic. That's it. 60 seconds. **Step 3: Walk, talk & float** We walk 5 miles. You naturally drift into conversation with 2-3 people at a time, pulled by topics that spark your curiosity. When you're ready to move on, just say: "I'm going to float!" **Step 4: Feel more alive** Two hours flies by. You're back where you started โ€” but you feel different. More alive. More energized. More connected to yourself and others. That's why regulars join 20+ times. *For more details, read our [Orientation Guide.](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation)* **HOW TO BRING A GREAT TOPIC** A great topic = something you're genuinely curious about. Recent topics include: * "What are you passionate about right now?" * "What makes a good friend?" * "What's a belief you used to hold that you've completely changed?" * "How do you want to be remembered?" * "What would you do if money wasn't a factor?" Think of your topic like the dish you're bringing to our conversational potluck. If everyone brings an A+ dish (i.e. energizing, uplifting, expansive), we'll all walk away feeling lighter and brighter. **WHAT TO EXPECT** This isn't a fitness event with casual chitchat. It's a walking think tank where we explore life's big questions together, beyond small talk. *If you're looking for light banter or a standard networking event, this probably isn't the right fit.* But if you crave depth, genuine connection, and conversations that make you feel alive? You'll love it here. **FAQ** * Wear casual athletic attire and sneakers. It's a long walk! * We have multiple first-timers at each event. We work hard to create a welcoming, inclusive, clique-free space. * We welcome people of **all** ages, backgrounds, and industries who align with the [intention](https://www.theboardwalks.com/ground-rules) of this space. * Rain or shine, we've been out here nearly every week since July 2022. If the event is cancelled, we'll let you know. * Dogs, babies in strollers, parents, and friends are welcome โ€” please text/email them the event link so they can RSVP and prepare a topic! **LOGISTICS** * If you'll arrive over 10 minutes late, we suggest skipping the event. It's hard to find us once we start walking, and your host can't answer messages during the event. * This walk is designed for everyone to *move together at the same steady pace* (about 20 min/mile). This format works best when the whole group moves in unison. If you have mobility limitations, we kindly encourage you to find an event better suited to your needs. * Read our [Orientation Guide](https://www.theboardwalks.com/orientation) for full details. * If you enjoy the event, send **[this](http://www.theboardwalks.com/)** to a friend or sign up for our **[newsletter](https://theboardwalks.beehiiv.com/)**. We're in multiple cities with more on the way. ๐Ÿค ๐Ÿ‘‹ **IF YOU WANT TO GO DEEPER...** [The Board](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board) is the next step: a high-trust collective for renaissance people devoted to creating, connecting, and building lives that light us up. * This is a global HQ for people who crave big talk, deep connection, and dream collaborations with people across industries. If the walks feel like a spark... The Board is the fire. Apply [here](https://stan.store/ellebeecher/p/the-board).
Contra dance with Big Scioty on Feb. 7 - First Congregational Church
Contra dance with Big Scioty on Feb. 7 - First Congregational Church
**Caller: Dan Kappus** **Band: Trillium** **Big Scioty Contra Dance** **temporarily returning to our long ago location for Jan-March - First Congregational Church, 444 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215** WHAT IS CONTRA DANCING? Picture the Grand Ball scenes like youโ€™ve seen in period films such as โ€œPride and Prejudiceโ€, where the dancers are lined up in long lines, across from each other. Thatโ€™s English Country Dancing, the predecessor of contra dancing. Now, add moves like โ€œswing your partnerโ€ and โ€œdo-si-do,โ€ like youโ€™ve seen in square dancing. Set it to fabulous, high energy, live music with fiddles, guitars, percussion and more, alรก โ€œRiverdance.โ€ Finally, set the whole scene down in the middle of Woodstock, with a hip, groovy atmosphere, a bit of tie-dye, and hints of counter-culture attitude. THATโ€™s Contra Dancing! Wear cool and comfortable clothes (you will get warm) and clean shoes that won't mark up our nice wood floor. Be sure to come for the beginner's lesson from 7:30 - 8:00, followed by dancing 8:00 - 10:30. All dances are taught; we will help you learn! Beginners always welcome, no need to bring a partner. Cost is $10.00 adults, $5.00 ages 12-26. Under 12 free. Free parking in church lot. For more information contact me or check out our website: [www.bigscioty.com](http://www.bigscioty.com/) Please bring your own refillable water bottle. Snacks to share are always welcome!
Astra Rooftop
Astra Rooftop
Hello everyone! For our first dinner together, weโ€™re keeping things low-key and casual. Take a look at the menu and let us know what you think we want this to be easy, relaxed, and enjoyable for everyone. Quick housekeeping note: many restaurants require most of the party to be present before seating. No-shows impact the entire group, so if someone repeatedly commits and doesnโ€™t show more than once, weโ€™ll have to remove you from future dinners to keep things fair and smooth for everyone. Looking forward to a great night and even better conversations ๐Ÿฝ๏ธโœจ
Friday Happy Hour Hike
Friday Happy Hour Hike
Birthday Brunch: Celebrating February Birthdays @Forno
Birthday Brunch: Celebrating February Birthdays @Forno
Celebrating February Birthdays at Forno Kitchen and Bar! Complimentary mimosa for the birthday attendees
Morning people unite!! ๐Ÿค โ˜• + ๐Ÿ’ฌ @ Paris Baguette (Easton)
Morning people unite!! ๐Ÿค โ˜• + ๐Ÿ’ฌ @ Paris Baguette (Easton)
Early-bird coffee and conversation at [Paris Baguette](https://parisbaguette.com/locations/oh/columbus/3969-merchants-row/)!

Walking with Friends Events Near You

Connect with your local Walking with Friends community

It Takes A Village - A Celebration of Community
It Takes A Village - A Celebration of Community
Join us for a vibrant gathering that honors the heart and hustle of local entrepreneurs. It Takes a Village is more than an event itโ€™s a movement to uplift and spotlight small business owners who pour passion into their craft and creativity into our community. From authors and bakers to jewelry makers, t-shirt designers, candle crafters, and beyond. This is your chance to meet the makers, support their work and celebrate the spirit of collaboration. **_Expect_** * Local vendors showcasing handmade goods * Live demos and storytelling from featured creators * Food, music, and community vibes * Opportunities to shop, connect and be inspired * Celebrate the power of small businesses and we all rise
Sharon Woods HIKE & Optional Lunch at 101 Craft Kitchen
Sharon Woods HIKE & Optional Lunch at 101 Craft Kitchen
Hi ladies. Let's hike the multi purpose trail. Wear your shoe of choice. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area. 101 Craft Kitchen is about seven minutes away at 817 Polaris Pkwy, Westerville, OH 43082 We willl be doing a loop and Iโ€™ll ask one of the faster walkers to lead in the front and Iโ€™ll bring up the rear at a slower pace - 3.25 to 3.5 mph or slower! No one left behind!
Almost Springtime Bonfire & Snacks- Queer Nature Hangout
Almost Springtime Bonfire & Snacks- Queer Nature Hangout
Join us for a nice warm bonfire and hot drinks this February at Highbanks Metropark. Folks who'd like to can walk around the meadows. This gathering and area of the park is doggo and kiddo-friendly, and is accessible to mobility aids.
Sharon Woods HIKE
Sharon Woods HIKE
Hi ladies. Let's hike the multi-purpose trail - approximately 4 miles. Meet in the Maple Grove Picnic area.
Ultimate Frisbee at Lincoln Tower Park
Ultimate Frisbee at Lincoln Tower Park
Drag Bingo
Drag Bingo
Brunch Club: Make New Friends
Brunch Club: Make New Friends
โš ๏ธ **IMPORTANT: You must sign up and buy a ticket here to attend:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) **Join the Columbus City Brunch Club and make new friends!** Each meetup brings together 4โ€“6 people for casual conversations over brunch. We use the Groupvibe platform to facilitate the meetup and ensure everyoneโ€™s a good fit. ๐Ÿ‘‰ **To attend, youโ€™ll need to complete registration via this link:** [https://groupvibe.com/](https://groupvibe.com/) Weโ€™ll share the exact location of the upcoming meetup the night before only if you have bought a ticket or membership plan. **Why this works:** \* Smaller groups make real conversations easier. \* Discover new restaurants in your city, together. \* Curated lunch venues with good food and vibe. \* If you hit it off with your group, thereโ€™s plenty of time to hang out afterwards. **Note:** RSVPs on Meetup donโ€™t reflect total attendance. Many attendees register directly via our website. The event on [Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/) is only a placeholder. This meetup is organized by Groupvibe, a small team passionate about helping people form meaningful friendships offline.