Atlanta is one of the largest metro areas in the United States and this diverse city has major attractions in all corners. Whether you’re a resident or just passing through, there are tons of fun things to do in Atlanta, like seeing an epic puppet show or celebrating wine at the annual Uncorked festival. 

Whatever your interests are, you don’t have to do them alone in Atlanta. Check out the following Meetup events happening in Atlanta during the month of February 2024, and find something to do today!    

Take a guided tour of the historic Oakland Cemetery 

Nestled between the neighborhoods of Sweet Auburn and Cabbagetown, historic Oakland Cemetery is Atlanta’s oldest public park and the final resting place of many of the city’s most notable citizens. 

On Sunday, February 4, you can join Atlanta Dining History and Culture Enthusiasts for a 90-minute walking tour led by one of the park’s knowledgeable and entertaining guides. This Meetup group of nearly 100 members will discover the period gardens, art, and architecture that give Oakland Cemetery its distinct character, and learn the fascinating stories this outdoor museum has to tell. After the tour, the group will head to the nearby Six Feet Under Pub & Fish House.  

Participate in the country’s most delicious race, the Hot Chocolate 5k 

The Hot Chocolate race has been traveling all across the country, becoming a movement that’s taken over the running world. On Sunday, February 4, join Friendships, Fun and Fabulous Places – LADIES ONLY at Centennial Olympic Park. Along with hundreds of other participants, this Meetup group of nearly 90 members will stop by the pre-event expo and check out all kinds of cocoa-related vendors. 

Then, once you’ve crossed the finish line, you’re invited to a post-race party that promises to be a chocolate lover’s oasis! Celebrate your accomplishment with a complimentary finisher’s mug, fondue, dippables, and specialty hot chocolate.    

Celebrate good grapes at the Uncorked Atlanta Wine Fest 

It’s always festival season in Atlanta, and kicking off this year’s lineup of wonderful wine tastings is Uncorked. On Saturday, February 10, Atlanta’s premier wine experience will take place at The Stave Room, a beautiful event space alongside the Beltline. 

You can join the Atlanta Event Explorers, a Meetup group of nearly 100 members, before the wine tasting for a meal at the nearby Fat Matt’s Rib Shack. Then dive into more than 50 varieties of wine and craft beer tastings, wine-themed activities, and musical performances. Plus, your ticket gets you a souvenir Uncorked wine glass.  

Check out the 2024 Oddities & Curiosities Expo 

This traveling showcase of all things weird will make its stop in Atlanta on Saturday, February 17 at the Atlanta Convention Center. A unique array of artists, artisans, and small businesses will delight you with strange and mysterious wares. Get ready to experience everything from taxidermy and funeral collectibles to creepy antique jewelry, historic medical devices, handcrafted occult items, and more! 

You can join The Soirée Spot, a Meetup group of more than 120 members, as they discover new artists, meet fellow open-minded and curious folks, and enjoy strange sideshow performances throughout the event.   

See a puppet show recommended by the New York Times 

On Saturday, February 24, the Center for Puppetry Arts in Midtown will host a performance of PACKRAT, a visually stunning multimedia play that contemplates humanity’s relationship with the natural world. 

Join the Midtown Atlanta Gay Men, a Meetup group of nearly 800 members, as they experience puppetry, projections, and an original score elegantly woven together. The New York Times calls this show “thoroughly mesmerizing” and “amazingly expressive.” Inspired by the classic adventure novel Watership Down, the play follows one peculiar rodent on his journey to discover the interconnectedness of all living things.  

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Atlanta, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Atlanta but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!   

Check out these new Meetup groups in Atlanta      

• Alterna Capital Club
• Atlanta Van Life Meetup Group
• Atlanta Women’s Empowerment Meetup Group
• Donuts With Dilla Atl
• The Makeup Artist Group 

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in Atlanta for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

Charleston, the most populated city in South Carolina, is also one of the oldest cities in the United States, founded in 1670. All of that culture, history, and southern charm combine to make Charleston both a top vacation destination and a great place to live. Whether you’re new in town or a longtime resident, you can discover tons of fun things to do in Charleston, like touring the International African American Museum or joining a low-key mixer for sailing enthusiasts.

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around Charleston during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!     

Expand your network at a local brewery

First Friday Charleston- Professional Networking Happy Hour is the single largest networking community in the city, with more than 5,000 members. Their monthly Meetup is always a notable event in the Charleston business scene. January’s happy hour gathering at The Brick had 98 attendees!

On Friday, February 2, the next installment will take place at Charleston Beer Works. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to strike up a conversation with someone new at First Fridays, where the vibe is breezy and welcoming. The event is free to attend, and open to professionals of all kinds. 

Take a beginner lapidary class at Reforge Charleston  

On Sunday, February 4, you can unlock the secrets of gemstone crafting at a non-profit, educational makerspace. Reforge Charleston offers a three-hour immersive experience with all the essential tools and guidance needed to shape and polish gems. Their Meetup group has more than 900 members interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM). 

Participants will use obsidian to make free-form creations or stenciled shapes for jewelry or palm stones. With the help of experts, you’ll work through every stage of the lapidary process and witness your creativity forge something new. 

Go for a walk on the beautiful Isle of Palms  

Nestled among the many barrier islands that surround Charleston’s coastline, the Isle of Palms stands out for its rugged beaches, wild dunes, and charming oceanfront eateries. 

On Saturday, February 10, you can join Charleston Walk and Socialize for an early outing of four miles. This Meetup group of more than 1,900 members will visit the island’s boathouse and pier, hopefully spotting some nesting sea turtles along the way! The route will also take you to Café Paname for coffee and breakfast.   

See a free movie at a mixer for sailing enthusiasts 

Charleston Sailing Meetup, a community of more than 2,100 members, sponsors a Free Movie Monday once a month. Hosted at the courtyard of the Palmetto Brewing Co., these events have more of a mingling atmosphere than a movie theater vibe. The movies always have some kind of aquatic theme, with this year’s slate including  Jaws and The Perfect Storm. 

On Monday, February 12, you can head to the brewery to see Sprout, a surfing film. This will be a special Free Movie Monday hosted in partnership with WOW: Women on the Water, a local organization that connects women who want to learn how to sail. 

Join a group trip to the International African American Museum 

This museum is poignantly located at Gadsden’s Wharf on Charleston Harbor, where an estimated 40% of African captives first entered the United States. The institution is dedicated to honoring the untold stories of the African American experience before, during, and after slavery to the present day. 

On Sunday, February 18, you can join the Secular Humanists of the Lowcountry as they reflect on the significance of Gadsden’s Wharf, and the centuries of struggle that still impact the current moment. Afterward, this Meetup group of nearly 1,500 members will process their experience of the museum together at the nearby Saffron Café & Bakery.  

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Charleston, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Charleston but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!  

Check out a new Meetup group in Charleston         

• Charleston-Everest Base Camp Trek 2024 – Customer knowledge
• Veterans Success Network VSN

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in Charleston for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States, and one of the most recognizable. Chicago is known far and wide because of its top-tier universities, stunning museums, world-famous sports teams like the Chicago Bulls, deep-dish pizza, and so much more. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, you can discover tons of fun things to do in Chicago, like joining a whirlyball league or wandering through the incredible Mitsuwa Marketplace.

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around Chicago during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!   

Discover a new sport at WhirlyBall Chicago   

WhirlyBall Chicago is one of the world’s premier places dedicated to a 21st-century team sport. It combines elements of basketball, hockey, lacrosse, and bumper cars! The object of the game is to use lacrosse-like slings to pass around a wiffle ball to teammates, and eventually to throw the ball into the other team’s goal at one end of an open bumper car court.    

On Sunday, February 4, you can join Free & Cheap Culture & Night Life as they kick off a six-week whirlyball league. This Meetup group of nearly 19,000 members believes hanging out with the same group of people each week makes it effortless to build relationships. WhirlyBall Chicago also features bowling lanes, laser tag, and arcade games, so stick around after your match! 

Participate in a silent book club 

North Chicagoland Silent Book Club creates a communal space for readers to gather and crack open their books together. There’s no reading list, members just bring whatever books they fancy, then enjoy a calming atmosphere where everyone is free to read at their own pace. 

On Saturday, February 10, you can join this Meetup group of nearly 300 members at the Robert Crown Community Center. After a quiet reading hour, the space opens up for bookish chats over snacks and drinks. 

Check out the Mitsuwa Japanese Market 

Located in Arlington Heights, the Mitsuwa Marketplace is a one-stop shop filled with all kinds of Japanese products, including food and drink as well as homegoods, books, cosmetics, and more. You can purchase packaged food from their stores or get it fresh from their market stalls and eat it at the food court. If you’re a fan of sushi, ramen, Japanese pastries, and Japanese-style coffee, this is the place for you. 

On Saturday, February 17, you can join Foodies Friendship & Fun, a Meetup group of nearly 600 members, as they explore this epic grocery store only available in a select few cities across the country.  

Celebrate the Lunar New Year in Chinatown  

On Sunday, February 18, Chicago will be celebrating the Lunar New Year with a festive parade through Chinatown. You can witness all the colorful floats, dancing dragons, and traditional musicians with HiYak® Adventures. This Meetup group has over 200 members who often hike and kayak (hence HiYak), and generally love being outdoors.  

They’ll gather at Kung Fu Tea for some soothing warm beverages before heading out into the cold and walking along the parade route. Make sure to wear red, a traditional symbol of the Lunar New Year, or anything that screams “Year of the Dragon” to you!   

Take a non-traditional wine class at the Discovery Center 

Located in Irving Park, the Discovery Center is Chicago’s largest and longest-running adult education center. On Friday, February 23, you can register for one of their most fun classes on sparkling, rosé, and orange wines! 

Join 20s and 30s Socials, a Meetup group of nearly 2,000 members, as they travel the wine landscape beyond the red and white binary. You’ll taste some fantastic wines, talk about how they’re made, why they’re made, and how to find a bottle you love at any price. The class will also cover wine and food pairings, the influence of soil and climate on wine, and how to read a wine label. Whether you’re a wine lover or you’re just beginning your journey, this class has something to offer. 

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Chicago, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Chicago but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!  

Check out these new Meetup groups in Chicago     

• Master Healing Yourself and Others- Joy, Success and Peace
• Real Spiritual/Personal Development Journeys Worldwide

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in Chicago for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

The Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) metroplex is home to millions of people spread over roughly 9,000 square miles. This booming area is chock-full of fun things to do. Whether you’ve lived here for decades or you’re a first-time visitor, you can take a trolley tour of the city or volunteer to help with some trail restoration in the Great Trinity Forest. 

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around Dallas during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!  

Harness your motivation at the quarterly Write-a-thon event 

Shut Up & Write!® Dallas & Fort Worth is a Meetup group of more than 1,300 members who typically meet at the library for an hour-long session of writing and chatting. 

However, on Saturday, February 3, the group will be hosting a special Write-a-thon that only happens four times per year. Whether you’re working on a novel, poetry, thesis, screenplay, or beyond, you can drop by J. Gilligan’s Bar & Grill in Arlington. Stay for as long as you’d like at this six-hour power session, with a break in the middle for lunch and conversation.  

Join a private sightseeing party on the McKinney Avenue Trolley  

The McKinney Avenue Trolley is a vintage cable car that offers a totally unique way to experience Dallas. Boarding in the landmark district of State Thomas, the trolley goes along McKinney Avenue between the City Center District and Uptown.  

On Saturday, February 10, you’re invited to the third annual pre-Valentine’s Day trolley party hosted by 20s and 30s in Uptown Dallas/Deep Ellum/Greenville. This Meetup group of more than 13,000 members will have a few drinks and snacks while enjoying one-of-a-kind views, then get dropped off to continue the party at one of the many bars in Uptown.   

Check out the new Impressionist exhibition at the Dallas Museum of Art 

On Sunday, February 11, you can join Fabulous Friends Forever as they gather at the city’s premier art institution for a breathtaking journey through late 19th-century paintings. 

This Meetup group of more than 350 members will explore The Impressionist Revolution from Monet to Matisse, celebrating the 150th anniversary of the first Impressionist exhibition, which took place in 1874. The unique innovations of early originators like Claude Monet and Edgar Degas are showcased alongside the responses of successive generations of avant-garde artists, from Paul Gauguin and Vincent van Gogh to Piet Mondrian and Henri Matisse. 

Volunteer to help restore the Texas Buckeye Trail 

The Texas Buckeye Trail offers a historic and beautiful nature outing in the Great Trinity Forest, among a special grove of buckeye trees. 

On Saturday, September 17, you can get active and benefit the local community at the same time with North Texas Outdoors. This Meetup group of nearly 23,000 members will pick up litter and work to remove invasive plants that are damaging the ecosystem around the trail. Gloves, trash grabbers, weeding tools, and other supplies will be provided. 

Visit the Bush presidential library  

Located in a lovely park on the campus of Southern Methodist Library, the George W. Bush Presidential Center is a museum and library that also includes a full-size replica of the White House Oval Office. 

On Saturday, February 17, you can join Dallas-Fort Worth History & Culture: Meet People & Have Fun! for a guided tour. This Meetup group of more than 4,200 members will be led by the founder of the Texas History & Culture non-profit organization. This will be a non-partisan history tour, and all are welcome!  

Don’t see any activities that speak to you?

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Dallas, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Dallas but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event! 

Check out these new Meetup groups in Dallas     

• Babies & Brews 
• Connect w/ Other Single, Engaged & Newly Married Boss Women
• Dallas Responsible AI Meetup Group
• Help Your Career Soar in 2024

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in Dallas for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

Houston is the fourth-largest city in the United States, home to millions of people and probably just as many ways to have a good time. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Houston, Meetup can help you discover new activities and do them with new friends. Whether you’re a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, you can join a Super Bowl watch party at a country bar or volunteer at a charity race for local hospitals. 

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around Houston during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!       

Unwind at the Yoga, Artz & Brunch Party on the Rise Rooftop 

Located Rise Rooftop is a beautiful bar, venue, and entertainment complex in the heart of Midtown. Here, music lovers are often treated to live performances and stunning skyline views, followed by after-party events at the nightclub. But on Saturday, February 3, the rooftop space will be used to help curate a tranquil and inspiring vibe. 

You can join Houston Yogis/Meditations/Sound Healing/Breathwork/ICE Baths for an unforgettable afternoon of wellness, art, and community. This Meetup group of nearly 5,300 members will have the opportunity to engage in a revitalizing yoga session, take an ice bath, contribute to an interactive art project, browse a market of local artisans, play social games, groove to live music, indulge in a delicious three-course brunch, and enjoy seasonal refreshments.   

Visit the Houston Toy Museum  

Located in the historic neighborhood of Houston Heights, the city’s unique Toy Museum is one of the best places in the country to see rare toys and contraptions that are sure to bring waves of nostalgia.

On Thursday, February 8, you can check out the museum with Exploring Houston – Dining, movies, game night, wine & dance, a Meetup group of nearly 3,000 members. Tour themed exhibits like “How the West Was Fun: A History of Cowboy Toys.” Find out which popular game was banned two separate times in the United States, and learn which famous toy was accidentally invented by a NASA engineer!   

Join a Super Bowl watch party at Skeeter’s Mesquite Grill 

On Sunday, February 11, you can head down to the vibrant West University neighborhood with the Houston Single Zoomers (Boomers with Zip). This Meetup group of more than 3,500 members will gather at Skeeter’s Mesquite Grill for bar bites, beer, and the big game. 

Come early to mingle and help save tables before chowing down and watching the year’s greatest sporting event on any of Skeeter’s dozens of giant TVs. Even if you’re not the biggest football fan, Super Bowl Sunday creates an electric party atmosphere you won’t want to miss.   

Volunteer at the 21st Annual Texas Med Run  

Entering its third decade, the Texas Med Run is a 5k run (with other distance and speed options) that benefits the Texas Medical Center and all patients served by the Harris County Hospital System. Even if you can’t participate as a runner, there are lots of ways to make an impact! 

On Saturday, February 17, you can join Living On Purpose as they volunteer for a range of different race day activities to help facilitate the event. This Meetup group of more than 600 members will help set up the race course, serve at hydration stations, hand out finish line medals, and more. 

See a special performance of Mozart’s Requiem  

Nestled in the museum district, St. Paul’s United Methodist Church is renowned not only for its beautiful architecture, but for its world-class musical offerings. 

On Sunday, February 18, St. Paul’s Choir will join forces with the Mercury Chamber Orchestra to perform one of the greatest choral works ever written. You can join More and More, a Meetup group of nearly 2,000 members, for this free concert in one of the city’s most treasured venues.  

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Houston, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Houston but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!  

Check out these new Meetup groups in Houston    

• Clue Chasers: Mystery and Suspense Addicts
• Desi South asians Houston Singles Meetup Group
• Gay male bonding group 
• Health and Wellness Focus Groups
• Houston Sober Comedy Show Lovers

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in Houston for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

Nashville is one of the most culturally stimulating places in America. With a long history of musical genius and fandom, plus the lush backdrop of Tennessee’s rivers and prairies, Nashville offers something for everyone. Whether you’re new in town or a long-time local, you can expand your knowledge of the world by learning about fungi at the Global Education Center or volunteer with good people at a local food bank. 

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around Nashville during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!  

Discover the Franklin art scene at the monthly gallery crawl 

Just south of Nashville, the city of Franklin has a wonderful mix of historic areas and artistic hot spots. Downtown Franklin is home to several locations listed in the National Register of Historic Places, as well as a burgeoning artist community with more than 30 galleries.

On Friday, February 2, take an evening stroll centered on local creativity with Fun Happenings Social Group-Nashvilles Most Fun Social Group. This Meetup group of nearly 4,000 members will see a wide variety of magnificent work in all kinds of media, from blown glass and wood sculpture to traditional oil paints. Select stores will also be staying open late for Art Crawlers to browse. 

The group will end the night at Kimbro’s Pickin Parlor for drinks, live music, and chilling outdoors by the fire pits.   

Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Centennial Park 

On Saturday, February 10, the Chinese Arts Alliance of Nashville is hosting its Year of the Dragon celebration at the Musicians Corner section of Centennial Park. 

You can join Here to Take Over Nashville, a Meetup group of more than 1,300 members, at this vibrant festival of music, dance, food, and good cheer. Activities will include calligraphy demonstrations, Chinese poetry workshops, puppet shows, dragon dances, and more. This festival is welcome to all, and free to attend!  

Run on the trails of Percy Warner Park with a sports doctor 

Nashville Group Trail Runs by Misfit Mountain Athletics provides a fun, safe space for anyone who wants to try getting active on the nature trails around the city. On Sunday, February 11, they’re teaming up with Dr. Lauren Johnson of Nashville Chiropractic & Sports Therapy for a group run followed by an informal Q&A session on staying injury-free. 

This special event will take place at the beautiful Percy Warner Park, with acres of woodlands, meadows, streams, and historic structures.  

Give back to the community by volunteering at Second Harvest food bank 

In addition to their regular hikes and other outdoor adventures, the Nashville Hiking Meetup organizes community volunteer projects like park cleanups, trail building, and working at Second Harvest food bank twice a month. This group of over 21,000 outdoor enthusiasts will sort and pack food at Second Harvest in northern Nashville on Tuesday, February 13. 

These items will be available the following day to people who are “food insecure,” meaning they’re not sure where their next meal is coming from. Food banks like Second Harvest are some of the most vital institutions in the fight against hunger in America. Plus, while you’re working, you can connect with one of Nashville’s largest Meetup groups and make plans to get out in nature with your new crew.    

Learn about fungi at the Global Education Center 

Located near the heart of downtown Nashville, the Global Education Center offers a huge array of events and services, including everything from language classes and legal advocacy to salsa lessons! On Saturday, February 24, you can join the Middle Tennessee Humanist Group for a discussion on the wonderful and mysterious world of fungi. 

This community of more than 160 members will learn how fungi can change your view of the world, and discuss the work of fungi photographer Stephen Axford. Plus, mushroom food and drinks will be served!  

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Nashville, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Nashville but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!  

Check out these new groups in Nashville        

• Lift Ladies in Future Technologies
• Nashville Small Business Building Meetup
• Nashville Tech Coworking Group
• The Nashville Brutherhood

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in Nashville for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

New York City is by far the most populated city in the United States, as well as one of the most significant cultural centers on the planet. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, a history buff—or pretty much anything else a person can be—NYC has something amazing in store for you. Both locals and tourists can find fun things to do in NYC that they’ve never done before, like bringing your camera to the Lunar New Year parade in Chinatown or ice skating at Brookfield Place.

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around NYC during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends! 

Check out the National Jazz Museum in Harlem 

On Saturday, February 3, you can join the Museum Hoppers of NYC as they delight in the sights and sounds of a distinctly American art form. 

This Meetup group of more than 1,300 members will be treated to curations by the museum’s incredible Artistic Directors and GRAMMY-winning musicians, Jon Batiste and Christian McBride. You’ll enjoy immersive jazz experiences and see artifacts from the early days of jazz, embracing the museum’s vision to make jazz accessible to everyone on the planet.  

Take a “Buddhism for Beginners” class at a Brooklyn meditation center 

If you’re curious about Buddhism, the Vajradhara Meditation Center offers a weekly in-person class that presents this discipline’s basic teachings. Located in Boerum Hill, the Center presents hour-long classes that each include a talk, two short meditations, and time for discussion. 

You can join Buddhism for Beginners, a Meetup group of nearly 140 members, for the class as well as a post-class hang with snacks on Monday, February 5. You can immediately use the lessons from this class to improve your relationships, cultivate inner peace, and increase your enjoyment of daily life. 

Celebrate the Lunar New Year in Chinatown 

Welcome the Year of the Dragon on Saturday, February 10 with one of the nation’s biggest and brightest Lunar New Year festivals. Head to Chinatown for a vibrant parade filled with dancers, musicians, floats, lanterns, and so much more. 

If you want to capture some of the magic of this Lunar New Year celebration, you can join The Art of Photography – NYC. This Meetup group of nearly 1,400 members will collaborate on creating beautiful images of the parade, from thousands of celebrants wearing red and gold to firecrackers and martial arts demonstrations. 

Join the Wizards on Ice costumed skating event at Brookfield Place 

Every year, Harry Potter NYC – The Group that Shall Not be Named goes ice skating in Hogwarts uniforms and other wizarding wardrobe. On Sunday, February 11, this community of more than 4,700 members will gather at the rink at Brookfield Place, a lavish shopping center in downtown Manhattan. 

Even if you don’t ice skate, there will be plenty of members sitting around the rink and sipping hot chocolate together. After bringing a little magic to the ice, the group will reconvene to explore the first-rate Brookfield Place food court.  

Practice origami at the New York Public Library 

On Saturday, February 17, you can join OMG NYC (Origami Meetup Group! NYC) at the 53rd Street branch of the New York Public Library for their monthly event. The library has generously offered their community meeting rooms to this Meetup group of more than 2,100 members.  

The event is open to folders of all levels, from total beginners to advanced origami masters. Members often bring paper to share, as well as books on the sublime art of origami with instructional guides. If you have some experience, the group would love for you to teach a casual workshop on a specific design or general pointers for newcomers.    

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in NYC, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in NYC but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event! 

Check out these new Meetup groups in NYC       

• Green Economy Leaders Green Finance Sustainable Renewable
• NYC Cloud Security Practitioner & Vendor Work Group
• NYC Short Form Improv
• NYC Small Dog Meetup Group 
• Play Your Tabletop Game

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in NYC for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

San Diego is one of the jewels of Southern California. With dozens of miles of coastline, unique beach communities, and great weather year-round, good times are never hard to come by. Whether you’re new in town or you’ve lived here for years, you can discover so many fun things to do in San Diego, like going on an art crawl through Barrio Logan or participating in the city’s International Jewish Film Festival. 

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around San Diego during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!   

Join the annual “Love Your Wetlands Day” with the Audubon Society 

“Love Your Wetlands Day” is a once-a-year opportunity to explore the normally off-limits Kendall-Frost Marsh Reserve in Mission Bay. This ecosystem includes protected marshland, tidal channels, and salt flats with abundant wildlife.  

Sponsored by the UC Natural Reserve System and the San Diego Audubon Society, “Love Your Wetlands Day” activities include guided walking tours, live animal presentations, habitat restoration, and more. On Saturday, February 3, experience the rarely-seen magic of the Kendall-Frost Marsh with the San Diego County Native Plant Society Meetup, a community of more than 1,700 members.  

See the city’s creative side on an art crawl through Barrio Logan 

An industrial-chic area on the shores of San Diego bay, Barrio Logan’s former warehouses are now home to art galleries, craft breweries, and authentic Mexican restaurants. This vibrant area has a youthful, creative spirit, and it’s a popular stomping ground for students from the nearby Woodbury School of Architecture. 

On Saturday, February 10, you can join DRINK N DRAW @ different breweries! for the monthly Barrio Logan art crawl. This Meetup group of nearly 400 members will stop by art studios, open workspaces, public art installations, murals, fine art galleries, local shops, and more. This event is free and family-friendly.    

Check out Dyno Bar, a paradise for pinball lovers

Tucked between the buzz of Downtown San Diego and the residential bliss of Mission Hills, Dyno Bar is a throwback arcade and pool hall. With a huge variety of old school and modern pinball machines (with themes like The Mandalorian), this BYOF barcade is a regular haunt of the San Diego Pinball Club.  

This Meetup group of 300 members will gather on Tuesday, February 13 for their monthly tournament. Players of all skill levels are welcome to join (with lower-ranked and unranked players getting a discount to enter), and gift cards will be raffled off to all contestants.     

Participate in the San Diego International Jewish Film Festival  

This year marks the 34th installment of the city’s annual Jewish Film Festival, with both in-person and at-home screenings for exploring both contemporary and historical Jewish culture. 

On Sunday, February 18, you can join Jewish Seculars for FFF (Food, Film, and Friendship) to discuss a movie from the slate. This Meetup group of over 70 members will gather at the Arely French Bakery to unpack “The Story of Annette Zelman,” a tale of star-crossed lovers set in 1941 in Nazi-occupied France. You can stream the film at home or see it in person at the Garfield Theater on Wednesday, February 7.  

Explore the Japanese Friendship Garden for free  

On Tuesday, February 20, you can enjoy free admission into Balboa Park’s Japanese Friendship Garden. Designed as a display of mutual respect between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama, these twelve acres have zen gardens, ceremonial gates, koi ponds, and peaceful winding paths.  

There, you can also learn unique Japanese garden arts with Kokedama lovers – Workshop and more info about Kokedama! This Meetup group of 60 members invites you to try the traditional practice of Kokedama, where you lovingly shape balls of soil and moss into ornamental plants you can take home.   

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in San Diego, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in San Diego but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!  

Check out these new Meetup groups in San Diego        

• Aikido Art of Peace Meetup Group Demonstration
• Embrace Your Shadow and Love Your Inner Child
• Emotional and Physical Health Workout Group 
• San Diego Salesforce Meetup Group
• Virtual Art Classes San Diego

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in San Diego for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

San Francisco is home to over 800,000 residents and some of the world’s most famous tourist attractions, from the majestic Golden Gate Bridge to its hilly streets and cable cars. Discover plenty of activities and hidden local gems with Meetup while connecting with like-minded people. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime resident interested in the outdoors, artistic hobbies, or social events, Meetup has a group for you. 

No matter your interests, you don’t have to do them alone. Check out the following Meetup events in San Francisco during February 2024, and find something to do today!

Enjoy crafting and coffee in Berkeley

East Bay Fiber Arts (formerly known as Lakeside Crafternoons) is a Meetup group for new and experienced crafters who want to work on their projects and learn new skills. All levels and styles—crocheting, knitting, needlepoint, sewing, and more—are welcome.
 
On Sunday, February 4, join East Bay Fiber Arts for coffee and crating at Café Etoile. Enjoy brunch while meeting different crafters and making progress on your latest creation. This is the perfect event for honing your beloved craft while expanding your network with local fiber craft enthusiasts.

Sample botanical mocktails and elixirs in Oakland

According to Bacardi Limited, 57 percent of surveyed consumers planned to follow Dry January, and 40 percent of people in the U.S. and U.K. were expected to increase their consumption of non-alcoholic and low-ABV drinks in 2023. As teetotalism (the practice of abstaining from alcohol) grows in popularity, mocktails are on the rise and becoming more prominent on booze-free menus. 

Join the East Bay Sober Socialites for an evening of spirit-free cocktails at the Twisted Thistle Apothecary on Wednesday, February 7. You’ll learn about the benefits of natural herbs and how to prepare drinks infused with botanical ingredients. 

This event also includes a live demonstration and Q&A, a complimentary goodie bag, and the opportunity to shop Twisted Thistle Apothecary’s wide range of products. Limited spots are available, so sign up soon!

Raise a toast to Black History Month in Napa Valley 

February is Black History Month, a celebration of African-American culture and a commemoration of the struggles and triumphs of Black Americans throughout U.S. history. There are many ways to honor Black History Month, from supporting Black-owned businesses to watching films that explore the Black experience to attending special events.

Kick off your Black History Month by joining The Adventure in Black Meetup group at The Black Winery Experience from February 21 through February 25. This multi-day event features a deep dive into Oakland and Napa Valley’s flourishing Black wine and art scene. Designed for wine lovers, you’ll visit some of the region’s premiere Black-owned and operated wineries, indulge in curated soul food, and celebrate African-American culture in the heart of wine country.

Meditate with plants in Berkeley 

Studies show that meditation can reduce stress and anxiety, increase relaxation, and strengthen the mind-body connection. The Plant Connection Meditation Group is dedicated to strengthening this connection with plants through flower and plant essences. 

On Thursday, February 22, join L. Leland, a clinical herbalist at the Berkeley Herbal Center, as she guides members on a meditation with various plants. Listen to an overview on this fascinating phenomenon and the power of plant “magic” for the senses. Be sure to bring a journal or something to write with—you’ll be asked to note your experience and share your thoughts with fellow participants.

Don’t see any activities that speak to you?

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in San Francisco it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in San Francisco but can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!  

Check out these new Meetup groups in San Francisco

• Age 20 to 39 San Francisco Badminton Meetup Group 
• Bay Baby Boomers Be Climbin’ (50+ Climbers)
• Chanting Meditation
• Indians in San Francisco (Bay Area)
• San Francisco Pickup Soccer by Stranger Soccer

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in San Francisco for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.

Miami is the center of South Florida culture. In addition to its tropical beaches and amazing nightlife, Miami also has dozens of great museums, unique architecture, thriving arts districts, and lots of Cuban flair! Whether you’re a long-timer or a first-timer, you can learn how to attract bees and butterflies to your garden or hike to the Cape Florida Lighthouse on Key Biscayne. 

With Meetup, you never have to do fun things alone. Check out the following Meetup events happening around Miami during the month of February 2024, and have a great time with new friends!  

Attend the opening night of the Shorts Miami Film Festival

The University of Miami sponsors a free film festival at the beautiful Cosford Cinema in Coral Gables. The venue houses a 70-square-foot screen, equipped to project 35mm film as well as a variety of high-definition digital formats. 

On Friday, February 2, you can join Miami Fun Inexpensive, a Meetup group of nearly 11,000 members, as they watch both narrative and documentary shorts from emerging and established filmmakers. The festival will also have food, drinks, and live music!  

Take a beginner tennis class in Miami Beach 

Miami Sports and Recreation Meetup Group is a community of nearly 800 members dedicated to having fun while staying active and making new friends. 

On Tuesday, February 6, they’ll host a tennis lesson suitable for complete beginners or former players looking to shake off the rust. This class will take place by the waterfront at Palm Island Park, so you can enjoy a beautiful Miami morning while learning forehand and backhand basics. In a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the coach will guide you through each step, ensuring you build solid skills and confidence. This class is free for first-time participants.  

Learn how to attract pollinators to your garden 

Pollinators like bees and butterflies are not only a beautiful sight, but a vital part of the local ecosystem. On Saturday, February 10, you can join a free gardening workshop all about supporting wildlife with South Florida Edible Gardening and Sustainable Living. 

This Meetup group of nearly 1,500 members will gather at the Robbins Preserve for an interactive experience with a master gardener. There will also be a raffle with fun prizes, and everyone is guaranteed to leave with a plant!  

Hike the southern tip of Key Biscayne  

On Sunday, February 11, you can join 45 plus – Walks and Hikes in South Florida at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. 

This Meetup group of more than 3,200 members will take a four-mile hike around some of the island’s scenic trails. Just a stone’s throw from Downtown Miami, you’ll pass through forests and wetlands, beachfront, and protected birding areas. Plus, you’ll get to see the historic Cape Florida Lighthouse. 

Connect with people in tech at a popular happy hour event 

The Wynwood Tech Happy Hour brings entrepreneurs, investors, and tech folks together for a laid-back, but powerful summit. In fact, it’s the largest biweekly tech happy hour in the whole city. 

On Wednesday, February 28, you can join Miami Meets and Activities for a wonderful networking opportunity in one of Miami’s most colorful and creative neighborhoods. This community of more than 1,200 members will gather at FREEHOLD, a sprawling social space with a pizzeria, a café, three bars, and a spacious courtyard.  

Don’t see any activities that speak to you? 

Don’t worry. There are so many fun things to do in Miami, it would be impossible to capture them all on one list. If there’s an activity you’d love to do in Miami but you can’t find an event for it, you can easily create your own Meetup group and host your own event!    

Check out these new Meetup groups in Miami           

• Early Burdz Miami
• Latin-Professionals 30’s, 40’s Miami and Beyond 
• Miami Ai Meetup Generative Ai happy hour
• Miami Tennis Meetup Group Lesson
• Women’s Social South of South Miami

Find events, join groups, and communicate with your people—from anywhere. Download the Meetup app today!

Meetup Team

The post Fun Things to Do in Miami for February 2024 appeared first on Meetup Blog.