Weekend Road Trips

**Concert in Jazz Station starting at 20:30.** I will be there around 20:00, see you at the bar. **Please buy your ticket here: https://shop.utick.net/?module=QUANTITY&q=F3FD2437-00AB-B54E-FC1A-38749FFC62AE&pos=JAZZSTATION** **Sullivan Fortner**, the acclaimed pianist-composer, has won the **GRAMMY® Award** for **‘Best Jazz Instrumental Album’** for ***Southern Nights*** at the **68th GRAMMY® Awards** on **February 1, 2026**.

✨ **Meet new people in Brussels** **in a friendly, relaxed and international atmosphere.** The ambience is relatively quiet, calm and sober for easy-going casual conversation, with no chaos and loud party music in the background! 🍻 Large selection of drinks and food available 🌍 Internationals, expats & locals welcome 👨‍👩‍👧‍👧 Over 10,000 members overall in our Brussels community! The event was also covered in a recent article from Brussels Times: [https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/1949146/euromeet-the-real-life-brussels-social-network](https://www.brusselstimes.com/belgium/1949146/euromeet-the-real-life-brussels-social-network) 😀 Our events usually attract **30–40 attendees each week**, with an age average of around 35 years old and good gender balance (the event announcement is relayed across multiple social media, not just on this page) 💪 Organized weekly since early 2025 🩷 **Safe, respectful environment, and zero tolerance for any harassment!** The organizer is always present all evening in case of problems. You can also leave any anonymous feedback about the event here under this form: [https://gmogni.aidaform.com/brasserie-meetup-feedback-form](https://gmogni.aidaform.com/brasserie-meetup-feedback-form) **.** Looking to meet new people and expand your social circle in Brussels, as well as your network of professional contacts? Join us **every Friday evening anytime from 18:30** **and until at least 23h** **at** **the** **“Quartier Leopold”** **brasserie**, in the heart of the famous Place du Luxembourg in front of the European Parliament, for a fun, relaxed night of **drinks, food, spontaneous conversations, and great vibes**! 💛 . 📍 **Location**: “Quartier Leopold” brasserie, Pl. du Luxembourg 9, 1050 Ixelles 📌 **Google Maps**: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCvSP1AGZNX2ZV3C8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/oCvSP1AGZNX2ZV3C8) (don't worry if you see the bar marked as "closed" on Google Maps for the Friday nights, they will always be open for us!) **🌐 Website of the venue**: [https://www.quartier-leopold.be/en](https://www.quartier-leopold.be/en) 📸 **Pictures gallery from previous events:** [https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LRbsinA1wEtUrDhlyw8K6Uz9YKeq0_dw?usp=sharing](https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LRbsinA1wEtUrDhlyw8K6Uz9YKeq0_dw?usp=sharing) . ✨ **Why you’ll love it**: ✅ **Everyone is welcome**, even if you don’t know anyone else yet—expats, locals, newcomers, solo adventurers, or groups! ✅ Completely **free to attend**—just grab a drink and join the fun! Please ask the bartenders when you arrive if unsure where to find our meetup group and tables ✅ Possibility to make also useful **professional exchanges and networking** with other participants who work in similar domains, so remember to bring also your business card! ✅ Tons of **indoor and outdoor space available**—the square in front of the bar is quite pedestrian-friendly, and we have a private large room reserved entirely for the Meetup participants at the back of the bar! ✅ Possibility to have **dinner at the brasserie** during the meetup (until 22h), thanks to its comprehensive selection of dishes available in the menu: [https://www.quartier-leopold.be/web/content/1467?unique=b27f82e985f525417a92cbeaf0f1ac1c5e2fb4a0](https://www.quartier-leopold.be/web/content/1467?unique=b27f82e985f525417a92cbeaf0f1ac1c5e2fb4a0) ✅ **Want to keep the night going?** After the meetup, we often continue as a group to explore nightlife hotspots in the city center. . 💬 **Stay connected with our Community**: ▶️ Join our **Facebook/Messenger chat** to get updates and easily find the group on arrival:[ ](https://m.me/ch/Abaqvj9lxNT3_xh7/)[https://m.me/ch/AbaV86vk4SHop_eD/](https://m.me/ch/AbaV86vk4SHop_eD/) ▶️ Otherwise, if you prefer to use **WhatsApp**, please join this other group: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FMjWrr9wCR7JYsudMD6XV0) ▶️ We are also active on **Telegram**: [https://t.me/euromeet_meetup](https://t.me/euromeet_meetup "https://t.me/euromeet_meetup") ▶️ And don’t forget to join our **EuroMeet Facebook group** for many more social events in Brussels: [https://www.facebook.com/groups/euromeet](https://www.facebook.com/groups/euromeet) ▶️ Finally, we also manage a **professional networking group on LinkedIn** as well, for more easily retrieving each other's LinkedIn profiles and identifying people who also work in similar domains: [https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13194613/](https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13194613/) . Come alone or bring a friend—either way, you’ll leave with **new friends, great memories, and maybe even some ideas on how to develop further your professional career!** See you this Friday! 🍻✨😀 . 📧 Got questions? Reach out to the **organizer**: [gabriele.mogni@gmail.com](mailto:gabriele.mogni@gmail.com) . 👉 Please **RSVP on Meetup** if you would like to attend our next event, so that we can plan accordingly. . *** #BrusselsMeetup #EuroMeet #BrusselsEvents #MeetNewPeople #MakeNewFriends #InternationalBrussels #ExpatsInBrussels #BrusselsSocial #SocialInBrussels #FridayVibes #AfterWorkDrinks #BrusselsLife #PlaceLuxembourg #MeetupBrussels #InternationalFriends

We do cycles of 4-6 weeks, with a progressive intensity, and the last session is lighter. Program: 15’ warm up **To be defined** Cool down to get back to the starting point… or more S=All out sprint RF = Run fast, at MAS (Maximum aerobic speed) CF = Run comfortably fast (1h threshold) J = Jog, recuperation Notes: It should take about one hour in total, as the cool down will end when we reach back to the meeting point. It's NOT required to have an activity tracker or smart watch to be able to follow the program, as I'll be giving signals with a whistle. For the "run" part, you can follow your own pace and we'll be regrouping in the "jog" part. Intervals training is not advised for total beginners. To have an idea, the average pace at the warm up is around 5'45"/km-6'/km so this pace should feel very comfortable ***Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability.*** By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.

Have you always wanted to learn Bachata? Now is the perfect time! Our regular classes at Albert Hall are designed to help beginners progress quickly and master this beautiful social dance that is very popular right now! 💃🕺 We have just started a new session where everyone can learn at their own pace. Come with or without a partner. After the beginner's class, there are more advanced classes, followed by a free dance party for students. 🎉 A nice venue and a warm atmosphere—don't miss this opportunity! 🔥 PROGRAM 🔥 7:00 p.m. → Bachata Beginner NEW (Room 1) 7:00 p.m. → Bachata Advanced (Room 2) 8:00 p.m. → Bachata Beginner II (Room 1) 9:00 p.m. → Bachata Intermediate (Room 1) 💥 10:00 p.m. → Bachata Social Party with DJ Felito on the decks for a wild night of dancing! 🎶 🍍 Fresh fruit buffet provided to recharge your batteries between dances! 📍 Location: Albert Hall 651 chaussée de Wavre 1040 Brussels 💸 Prices: 1 class: €15 10-class pass: €120 20-class pass: €210 Dance party only: €10 (cash) 👉 Registration on site

📅VENDREDI 27 FEVRIER - ACTE 3, BRAINE-L'ALLEUD **BACKSTAGE Live & Party 💖 QUEEN by Pilgrims 💖 ENTRÉE GRATUITE \(< 22h00\) 💖 ACTE 3 \| VEN 27\.02** POUR CETTE BACKSTAGE à L'ACT 3 EVENT HALL >>> NOUVELLE FORMULE XXL *QUEEN by Pilgrims \* EN CONCERT EN PREMIERE PARTIE DE SOIREE* * SUIVI DE NOTRE GRANDE SOIREE DANSANTE! * *ENTREE GRATUITE AVANT 22H00 AVEC LE TELECHARGEMENT EVENTBRITE // 15€ APRES 22h30* *** ⏳ RÉSERVEZ VITE VOTRE PLACE ! 🎟 Entrée gratuite avant 22H00 avec ticket Eventbrite ⚠️ Places limitées 1\. Billets gratuits si tu viens avant 22:00 [https://www.eventbrite.be/e/billets-backstage-live-party-queen-by-pilgrims-entree-gratuite-22h00-1983469773486?aff=oddtdtcreator](https://www.eventbrite.be/e/billets-backstage-live-party-queen-by-pilgrims-entree-gratuite-22h00-1983469773486?aff=oddtdtcreator "https://www.eventbrite.be/e/billets-backstage-live-party-queen-by-pilgrims-entree-gratuite-22h00-1983469773486?aff=oddtdtcreator") 2\. FB: **[https://fb.me/e/4c3G08eOA](https://fb.me/e/4c3G08eOA)** 📀📼 Le meilleur des 80's au 2000's ! 🔥Venez vivre une soirée inoubliable : BACKSTAGE Live & Party 💖 QUEEN by Pilgrims 💖 est LA soirée à ne pas manquer. *** 📅 Quand ? Vendredi 27 FEVRIER, dès 21H 📍 Où ? Acte 3, Braine-l'Alleud 🎟 Entrée gratuite avant 22H00 (Uniquement avec téléchargement du ticket sur Eventbrite) 🍾 RÉSERVATION TABLES : 📞Jidé 0477606131 Sur place ☞ ENTRÉE 15€ au desk et 10€ après minuit. *** ☞ Ouverture: 21h00 ☞ Concert: 22h30: ☞ Party: 00h00 (approx) Backstage Live & Party, un concept "soirée concert" rajeunit. Des groupes Cover ou Tribute sélectionnés par l'Acte3 pour leurs qualités et leurs générosités sur scène. Des playlists plus jeunes, des musiques plus récentes avec en majorité des groupes de "tributes" reprenant des artistes de 1990 à ce jour. ✨ POURQUOI VENIR ? ✔ Un concert incroyable ✔ Une piste de danse en feu ✔ Une ambiance conviviale et chaleureuse ✔ L’occasion parfaite pour faire des rencontres ✔ 🚗 ENORME Parking & sécurisé *** ☞Vers 00h00 notre DJ reprend les platines avec les standards des 30 dernières années. *** 👗 DRESS CODE : TENUE DE VILLE EXIGÉE. âge minimum 25 ans. * d'infos : christian@acte3.be *** 📍 Lieu : L’Acte 3 Event Hall Clos Lamartine 1, 1420 Braine-l’Alleud

Making new friends in a new city doesn’t need to be a struggle at all.

Ciao a tutti! Ci ritroviamo ogni venerdì dalle 18:00 per un bicchiere (si può anche mangiare) da Poppy's Bar, che si trova a 2 minuti di camminata da Parvis St Gilles. Un tavolo per 20 persone è riservato sotto il nome di Salvatore. Dunque, se non ci sono o se sarò in ritardo, potrete chiedere al barista. È un incontro informale, perché non è un evento strutturato, ma piuttosto un gruppo di persone che si riuniscono per parlare e praticare l'italiano. Anche i nativi italiani sono benvenuti :) Tutto ciò che serve è un sorriso — e puoi anche portare un amico! 👉 **Importante:** * È obbligatorio essere iscritti all’evento su Meetup per partecipare. L’iscrizione è importante per gli organizzatori, perché permette di conoscere il numero dei partecipanti e di garantire la sicurezza e il benessere di tutti i presenti. * Se cambiano le vostre circostanze e non potete più venire, annullate la vostra partecipazione per lasciare posto ad altri. * Vi chiediamo di assicuravi di pagare i vostri consumi, per evitare che gli organizatori saranno rimasti a pagare per gli altri. * Si prega di non parlare di politica cosi ci godiama la serata in tranquilita, di rispettare tutti i partecipanti e di non trattare l’incontro come un appuntamento romantici o intimo: l’obiettivo è semplicemente praticare e migliorare l’italiano in un ambiente piacevole e rilassato. PS : FR - Table de conversation en italien chaque vendredi de 18h00 à 22h00 au bar Poppy's, à deux minutes à pied du Parvis St-Gilles" (adresse : rue de Moscou 11, 1060 Saint-Gilles) NL - Praattafel in het Italiaans elke vrijdag van 18.00 tot 22.00 uur in de Poppys bar, op twee minuten lopen van Sint-Gillisvoorplein (adres: 11 Moskoustraat, 1060 Sint-Gillis) EN - Conversation table in Italian every Friday from 18:00 till 22:00 at Poppy's, 2 minutes walk from tram stop Parvis Saint-Gilles (address : Rue de Moscou 11, 1060 Saint-Gilles) ES - Mesa de conversación en Italiano cada viernes desde las 18:00 hasta las 22:00 en el bar Poppy's, a dos minutos a pie de la parada del tranvía Parvis St-Gilles (direccion: Rue de Moscou 11, 1060 Saint-Gilles)

_IMPORTANT: To RSVP you will also need to register as a member [here.](https://www.sundayvacations.com/membership)_ Join Sunday Vacations for a cozy Saturday brunch at **Aksum Coffee House**, one of Brussels’ most beautiful cafés, where rich Ethiopian coffee, fresh Moroccan crêpes, and vibrant international vibes meet in perfect harmony. This is more than just brunch, it’s a relaxed way to start your weekend, meet new people, and enjoy a soulful spot full of stories and flavors. ### 📍 Where? **Aksum Coffee House – Galeries Sainte Hubert (Just a few steps from Grand Place) ### 🕚 When? **Saturday at 11:30 AM** Come hungry, curious, and ready to mingle! ### 🍽️ What’s on the menu? ☕ Fresh-roasted Ethiopian coffee 🥞 Moroccan-style crêpes & artisan pastries 🥚 Tasty brunch dishes (vegetarian options too) 🧾 Everyone pays their own order at the counter. ### 👋 Who’s joining? Expect a mix of international professionals, friendly locals, and Sunday Vacations regulars. Solo? New in town? Come anyway, this is the perfect place to connect. --- 🧡 **Limited spots** – RSVP early to secure your place at the table. By joining this event, you agree to the Sunday Vacations [Terms & Conditions](https://www.sundayvacations.com/terms), [Privacy Policy](https://www.sundayvacations.com/privacy) & [Code of Conduct](https://www.sundayvacations.com/code)

Join us bowling and drinks at Crosly Bowling. We'll kick off the night with a few rounds of bowling on one of their 25 lanes, offering both classic and disco-themed experiences. Whether you're a seasoned bowler or a first-timer, it's all about fun and making friends. It's the perfect opportunity to unwind, socialize, and take an evening drink with other people. The cost of the event is **10 euro**, which includes one game. It is possible to pay at the event, with cash or bank app. Any additional game, drink or snack will be at personal expenses. Please note that for respect of the participants, we are asking to be **on time** to the event. People that arrive late might not be able to play. **Additional Information:** - Crosly Bowling is located just 500 meters from Brussels Central Station, making it easily accessible by public transport. - Feel free to invite friends or colleagues; the more, the merrier! We look forward to seeing you there for an evening of fun, relaxation, and spectacular views!

Join us for a magical **spring getaway** to one of the most romantic spots near the Belgian border in France- a journey through **majestic ruins**, an **enchanting castle**, and a **storybook village**. We’ll wander through **ancient ruins and a chapel** surrounded by forests, share a **friendly picnic by a lakeside**, and visit the stunning **Château de Pierrefonds** - whose entrance is free on the first Sunday of the month! The day will end with an **apéro among new friends**, the perfect close to the first spring day of the year ### 🌅 **Program Highlights** ☀️ Picnic by a serene lakeside (bring your own lunch) 🏰 Visit of **Château de Pierrefonds** 🏛️ Visit the Louvre Lens museum (The Louvre-Lens is a minimalist, glass-walled satellite of the Paris Louvre near the Belgian border that displays world-class masterpieces chronologically in a single, vast "Gallery of Time.")

On Sunday I am proposing a hike close to Brussels. We will start in the tiny village Villers-La-Ville, which is known for its impressive ruins of a former abbey. Subsequently, we will walk through a forest and agricultural areas. This region also has wine producers, so we might also encounter some vineyards on the way. At our destination Ottignies we will probably find an open bar for a drink. As the number of participants is limited, it is important that you manage your registration responsibly: only sign up if you really intend to come and cancel as soon as you know you can’t (this also goes for people on the waiting list!). We will try to keep close to an average speed of about 5 km/h. We will walk mainly on unpaved roads. I’ve not tested this track beforehand, so it’s possible that there are some mistakes in the planning. ●●You can find the track here: https://loc.wiki/t/252023497?wa=sc ●●Meeting point: We meet at 10h40 in Villers-La-Ville (in front of the railway station). If you start from Brussels-Central, you should take train IC 2109 towards Marbehan at 9h37. In Ottignies you have eight minutes to change to train S61 4560 direction Jambes at 10h23. You should get out in Villers-La-Ville. In Brussels, you can find me in the first car of the train. ●● Train tickets: Return ticket Brussels-Villers should be fine. ●● Back to Brussels: In Ottignies there is at least one direct train per hour back to Brussels. ●● Specifics: Distance: ca 25km Elevation gain: 300m Net walking time: ca 5-6h Weather forecast: Probably dry. In the unlikely case of too bad weather, we may cancel a hike, even few hours before the event. If this must happen, we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So it is important to have access to either the [[[[[[Meetup.com](http://meetup.com/)]([http://meetup.com/](http://meetup.com/))]([http://meetup.com/](http://meetup.com/))]([http://meetup.com/](http://meetup.com/))]([http://meetup.com/](http://meetup.com/))]([http://meetup.com/](http://meetup.com/)) website and/or your emails. ●● What to bring: * Comfortable hiking clothes &shoes * rain gear (just in case) * water + food for the breaks * sun cream * Compeed for blisters * some small money for drinks ●● Basic rules: Please RSVP only if you really intend to come. And if your plans change, update your RSVP asap, even hours before the walk. This is basic courtesy towards others. Repeated late cancellations are not well considered (at all). No-shows are even worse. Do not show up for a hike unless you are on the “going” list. ●● Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability: You are responsible for yourself and should be fit enough if you want to take part. As the participation in the events is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organisers from any responsibility and liability. Moreover, the organisers aren't tour operators, so they don't feel obliged to answer to every text message or email!

On Sunday, let's pick up again a plan that was sabotaged last autumn by a cancelled train - fingers crossed for more luck this time! We'll explore the southern end of the Parc natural Coeur de Condroz - an area where we don't go too often! We start in the small village of Haversin and follow a combination of GR and local hiking path through forests and fields and meadows, passing a number of castles on the way. The hike ends in Ciney, where we will find a bar for our final drink. As the number of participants is limited, it is important that you manage your registration responsibly: only sign up if you really intend to come and cancel as soon as you know you can’t (this also goes for people on the waiting list!). We will try to keep close to an average speed of about 4.5 km/h. We will walk mainly on unpaved roads. I’ve not tested this track beforehand, so it’s possible that there are some mistakes in the planning (i.e. it may become longer ;-). ●●You can find the gpx track here: **Wikilocs:** https://www.wikiloc.com/hiking-trails/von-haversin-nach-ciney-235163320 **Komoot**: https://www.komoot.com/de-de/tour/2623261338?share_token=aJhHtjvTYFZ0e676GTw3BpS8rZq66Ab3yQvAG9dWmsqPLYBVIW&ref=wtd ●●Meeting point: We meet at 8h35 in the main hall of Schuman train station, in front of the ticket machines and take the train at 8.52 (IC2108 to Marbehan). We change train in Ciney (10.07 L6160 to Marloie) and arrive in Haversin at 10.20. ●● Train tickets: BXL-Haversin 12.60€/7.50€ with train+; Ciney - BXL 11.40€/6.80€ with train+ ●● Back to Brussels: From Ciney there are trains back every hour, at XX.56 plus an additional train every every second (uneven) hour at XX.06. ●● Specifics: Distance: ca 24 km Elevation gain: somewhere between 220 and 310m, depending on App Net walking time: ca 5.5 h Weather forecast: spring!! In the unlikely case of too bad weather, we may cancel a hike, even few hours before the event. If this must happen, we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So it is important to have access to either the Meetup.com website and/or your emails. ●● What to bring: * Comfortable hiking clothes &shoes * rain gear (just in case) * water and drink for the breaks * Compeed for blisters * some small money for drinks ●● Basic rules: Please RSVP only if you really intend to come. And if your plans change, update your RSVP asap, even hours before the walk. This is basic courtesy towards others. Repeated late cancellations are not well considered (at all). No-shows are even worse. Do not show up for a hike unless you are on the “going” list. ●● Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability: You are responsible for yourself and should be fit enough if you want to take part. As the participation in the events is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organisers from any responsibility and liability.

## 🏃‍♂️ Sunday Run : The Green Lungs of Uccle (16km) **Kick off your Sunday with the Brussels Runners!** Whether you’re a long-time regular or this is your very first time joining, come find your rhythm with us. This week, we’re leaving the cobblestones behind to explore the hidden valleys and leafy heights of Uccle. ### 📍 The Route: From Pavilions to Plateaus We’ll start at the **historic white Pavilions** (Bois de la Cambre) and head south into a side of Brussels. Our journey is a "greatest hits" of Uccle’s nature reserves: * The rolling greens of **Parc de Wolvendael** * The wilder paths of **Keyenbempt & Kinsendael** * The sweeping views of the **Engeland Plateau** * The tranquil **Parc de la Sauvagère** We’ll loop back through the Bois de la Cambre to finish a beautiful **16km circuit** on a mix of pavement and soft park paths. ### 📋 The Essentials * **Distance:** \~16 km * **Pace:** Strictly **6:15 min/km**. This is a steady, social effort—perfect for building endurance without the burn. * **Meeting Point:** At the **2 white Pavilions** (Entrance to Bois de la Cambre). * **Bag Drop:** Available on-site—run light! * **Post-Run:** Join us for a post-run "rehydration" (coffee or something colder) at **Café de la Presse** to swap stories and weekend plans. ### 👟 Why join? This is a **no-drop social run**. We’re here for the community, the conversation, and the consistent miles. It’s the ultimate way to discover Brussels’ "green lungs". **Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability.** By signing up for this event, you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves. Questions and comments are welcome.

Hi everyone, This coffee morning event is @ **Château Moderne**, on Saturday, is 28 February 2026, from 10:00 - 13:00. **Château Moderne will be changing its name to Radio Moderne!** 1. The **prime time** of the event is **10:30 - 12:30**. That's when most people will be there. 2. When you enter the place, you will see a long table that is set up for the event. 3. If you intend **to join past 12:00** (high noon), then there is no need to register. Just come and join! 4. **DON'T forget to cancel** if you can't join! 5. **Please, be respectful towards each other during the event. (And after ;))** **As always, feel free to follow us on INSTAGRAM!** https://instagram.com/weekendmorningcoffee?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA== *** **THE STRUCTURE of THE EVENT:** * I post the event on Saturday/Sunday for the following Saturday. * I send out a reminder as an email or a comment on the event page on Thursday/Friday. * There is sometimes a waiting list. * **For everyone on the waiting,** please check your status and messages on Friday evening the latest. I message everyone on the waiting list on Friday. * **Please, move to "not going" AS SOON AS you know that you can't come anymore, that includes everyone who is on the waiting list.** **IMPORTANT:** * When you register yourself, be careful not to register accidentally a +1 guest (unless you bring a guest). It happens very often. * If you have any questions then, message me. *** **A MESSAGE FOR NEWCOMERS:** *In the three years of hosting this coffee group, I have met many people who struggle with anxieties when coming to an event for the first time. Sometimes, it took them more than one attempt before being able to join.* *Occasionally, people reach out to me before the event, and I have always been grateful for that as it offers the opportunity to communicate with each other and to find the best and most gentle way for that person to join the group.* *I would like to encourage everyone who struggles with this to contact me before. It would really be too bad if you can't join us, as it mostly gets better the second or third time you come.* *In addition to that, if you arrive and notice any signs of nervousness or fear, you can always let me know right then.* **THANK YOU AND SEE YOU ALL ON SATURDAY!** **LOCATION:** Château Moderne Mont des Arts 1 1000 Bruxelles

**Summary** For this event, we will do the [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at [The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/), a ten-thousand acre conservation center in Muskingum County. It is the largest such center in North America and one of the largest in the entire world. During this tour, we'll visit The Wilds' rhino herd in their state-of-the-art heated barns and learn how The Wilds' animal management team takes care of one of the largest herds of rhinos outside of Africa and Asia. **The date and time of this tour** We will be doing the 1:00 p.m. [Rhino Barn Tour](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) on Saturday, February 28. The tour is scheduled to last 90 minutes. **What you need to do to attend** Signing up here on Meetup will not get you into The Wilds for the tour. You must go out to The Wilds' [website](https://www.thewilds.org/) and [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour). Please [purchase your ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour), then sign up here on Meetup so I know how many to expect. **Attendance cap** There are only eight total slots/tickets available for this tour. As I obviously have already bought one of the tickets, that leaves seven spaces for everyone else. If you are interested in this event, I urge you to [buy a ticket](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) at The Wilds' website as soon as possible. Since their website is obviously public, nothing prevents other people having nothing to do with *GOhio!* from buying their own tickets, thereby potentially taking an available slot away from you. **Additional notes on attendance** I have now run several events at The Wilds. While the location of The Wilds and the pricing of the tickets generally leads to small turnouts, the people who have gone have all enjoyed it and were glad they went. If you've never been to The Wilds and you like zoos or animals at all, you are likely to find any tour at The Wilds to be a rewarding experience. **Tickets and pricing** [Tickets](https://www.thewilds.org/rhino-barn-tour) for this tour are $95, or $76 if you're a Wilds' member. I've posted screen shots, below, to help you be sure you're buying tickets for the correct event. Wilds' memberships pay for themselves if you go to The Wilds at least twice a year, and [Columbus Zoo members](https://www.columbuszoo.org/membership) get a discount on memberships to The Wilds. I will always run at least two events a year at The Wilds. Tickets for all Wilds' tours must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance of the actual tour. **Cancellations and refunds** Per The Wilds' [Cancellation Policy](https://www.thewilds.org/policies): *In order to be eligible for refund and accrue no rescheduling fees, cancellations must be made at least 14 days in advance of reservation. Cancellations made within 14 days of reservation will not receive a refund.* You may [contact The Wilds](https://www.thewilds.org/contact) at (740) 638-5030 between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., or you can email them at information@thewilds.org. **Waiver of liability** After you purchase your ticket, you will likely be asked to fill out a waiver of liability. This is a very short document and should take you no more than two minutes to complete. **Where we'll meet** We will meet at The Wilds, whose actual address is [14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732](https://www.google.com/maps/place/14000+International+Rd,+Cumberland,+OH+43732/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837dae07a595557:0xa1ceca93325a8bd1?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Please try to be there by 12:30 p.m. For most Wilds' tours, a shuttle bus will take you to the actual spot of the tour. So think of this as though you're going to the airport to catch a flight. It helps to be on time. The Wilds generally asks that people arrive at least thirty minutes because the scheduled start time of their tour. **GPS / Getting to The Wilds** The Wilds is in a very rural area, but I've never had a problem getting there with my GPS (I have Verizon). I've also uploaded a JPG map, below, of Muskingum County. Sometimes, though, it's hard to get a signal when you're at The Wilds and getting ready to leave. So you might want to consider downloading an offline map in Google Maps. Your cell phone should pick up a signal, however, within a few minutes after you leave. The Wilds' Visitor Center does have free Wi-Fi. **Carpooling?** If you want to carpool, I recommend discussing this in the comments, below, to this event. While I don't myself carpool, I will do what I can to help you arrange something if I can. **The weather** Dress for the weather. Just because the barn is heated doesn't mean it will be warm. And wear closed-toed shoes. Wilds' tours typically run no matter what the weather is. **After the tour** Once we're done with the rhinos, we'll head over to the very highly rated [Y-Bridge Brewing Company](https://ybridgebrewing.com/). The brewery is about thirty minutes from The Wilds, and it will be on the way back to Columbus for most, if not all, of us. The brewery's actual address is [1417 Linden Ave Ste D, Zanesville, OH 43701](https://www.google.com/maps/place/1417+Linden+Ave+d,+Zanesville,+OH+43701/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x8837edd6cc50824f:0xe3a0af1ccb2aefbf?sa=X&ved=1t:242&ictx=111). Y-Bridge Brewing does not serve food; however, they have several [food options](https://ybridgebrewing.com/food-options). I encourage you to check these out ahead of time on their website for yourself. However, here are a few of them: *Within walking distance -- 120 feet away* * [Angry Bull Saloon](https://www.facebook.com/AngryBullSaloonZanesville/) (pizza & subs) * The Corner Pub Sports Bar and Grill (classic bar food) *Delivery options -- [Door Dash](https://www.doordash.com/)* * [4 Star Pizza](https://fourstarpizza.com/), (740) 452-9300 * [Donatos](https://www.donatos.com/), (740) 452-7900 * [Pizza Cottage](https://www.pizza-cottage.com/), (740) 455-6000 * [Dominos](https://www.dominos.com/), (740) 455-3126 * [Papa John's](https://www.papajohns.com/), (740) 450-4100 If you live in the area or can't make The Wilds but still want to meet us at the brewery, that's fine too.

We'll play board games at the [Land-Grant Brewing Company](https://landgrantbrewing.com/). The brewery has multiple [food trucks](https://landgrantbrewing.com/food/) on Sundays, including [Ray Ray's Hog Pit](https://rayrayshogpit.com/franklinton), [Buck City Sammies](https://www.buckcitysammies.com/menu), and [Hai Poké](https://www.haipokefoodtruck.com/). The brewery also has (passable) drip coffee, free water, and Jeni's ice cream. You can also walk over to the [Land Grant Extension](https://callinyourbluffcoffee.com/) for "real" coffee. (You may have to stand in line, though. The Extension is popular.) You can come late or leave early. Please just sign up so I know to expect you. **Notes on Parking** * You'll (probably) have to park on the street, but street parking is free on Sundays. * There are [parking garages](https://landgrantbrewing.com/parking/) a little farther away if you want. These are obviously not free, though. * There is a [lot next door](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.0%22N+83%C2%B000'40.9%22W/@39.957211,-83.0119921,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m12!1m7!3m6!1s0x88388f3efd89238b:0xc139207386232411!2sLand-Grant+Brewing+Company!8m2!3d39.9577613!4d-83.011426!16s%2Fg%2F1pzt7t9df!3m3!8m2!3d39.957211!4d-83.011347?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) to the brewery that you're allowed to park in, but it is not free. I've never parked there, so I don't know anything about rates. (I'm told though that if you eat at Milo's Deli next door to this lot that Milo's will stamp your parking so it's free.) * You're going to see odd signs on [Lucas St](https://www.google.com/maps/place/39%C2%B057'26.1%22N+83%C2%B000'40.3%22W/@39.957256,-83.0124134,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m10!1m5!3m4!2zMznCsDU3JzI4LjgiTiA4M8KwMDAnNDEuNSJX!8m2!3d39.957993!4d-83.011536!3m3!8m2!3d39.957256!4d-83.011197?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyMS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA3MUgBUAM%3D) (saying it's a "private street") that will lead you to believe you're not allowed to park there, but you actually are. * Columbus parking cops literally do not work on Sundays. This means that, even if you're driving a non-EV, you can park in the EV spots near the brewery. **Games** I do bring many games, but please bring some of your own as well.